One of the best feelings when getting up in the morning is the anticipation of the first sip of your beverage of choice. The aroma of coffee or the floral bouquet of a steaming cup of tea stimulates the mind and makes promises of things to come. When camping, the wispy steam caresses your face and warms you from your head to your toes. To convey your favorite beverage from your kettle to your mouth requires the use of your favorite mug. This may be an old battered tin with a long and adventurous history or the new state of the art tumbler you got from your favorite outdoor site.
While the primary function of a camping mug is to hold your beverage, they vary widely in their composition, design, and capabilities. While some may be better suited to keep your coffee hot or conversely cold, others are designed to double as a cooking vessel. Whatever your need, there is a camping mug to meet it. In this article, we take a look at a variety of camping mugs and find the best camping mugs for you.
If you prefer, you can also just pick up our top pick here.
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Favorites for the Best Camping Mugs for Climbing
Our Favorites for the Best Camping Mugs for ClimbingThere is a myriad of options for camping mugs available on the market. These are some of our favorites.
Yeti Rambler Mug
It’ll be hard to find a cup as durable, and lastingly stylish as this mug. Available in an array of colors, this stainless-steel mug won’t scratch, rust, or puncture. Be it a toasty morning coffee or a long-awaited cup of hot soup at sunset, this mug will keep its contents warm for hours thanks to vacuum sealed technology. Just keep it away from your microwave or campfire, this product is not as safe as cookware.
What makes Yeti Rambler Mug Unique:
- Number one pick for best camping mug by many reputable reviews.
- Made with no sweat technology that keeps your hands dry.
- A magnetic lid makes for simple usability and minimal spillage.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Extremely durable, this mug has been designed to be near indestructible.
- It is rust and puncture-resistant, so you’ll have it for years to come.
- The vacuum seal technology will keep your beverages thermally stable for hours.
- BPA free, so you don’t have to worry about toxic leakage.
- The YETI Rambler 14 oz. Mug is the toughest, most over-engineered camp mug out there
- The full-loop Triple Grip Handle is comfortable for wider hands, so you can fit your mitts fully around your morning joe
- Thick gauge 18/8 stainless steel makes for stronger, more durable drinkware to resist dents and dings
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Zojirushi SM-SC Stainless Mug
Throw it, twirl it, drop it, whatever you do this mug has a lid that will never spill. Lightweight stainless-steel and slim design make for an unobtrusive, portable piece of gear. Like the Yeti, it is vacuum-sealed, but it beats the Yeti in both cold and heat retention, clocking in at 6 hours maintaining the temperature of the contents regardless of the surrounding environment. This is possibly the toughest, most reliable, sleekest looking mug on our list.
What makes Zojirushi SM-SC Stainless Mug Unique:
- Extremely thermally insulated, keeps beverage temperature stable longer than the Yeti Rambler.
- Flip-top lid with safety lock disassembles for cleaning while preventing spillage.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Available in 3 scratch resistant colors.
- It is rust and puncture-resistant, so you’ll have it for years to come.
- The vacuum seal technology will keep your beverages thermally stable for hours.
- BPA free, so you don’t have to worry about toxic leakage.
- 16 oz. / 0.48 liter
- Heat retention: 189 Degree at 1 hr. / 160 Degree at 6 hrs
- Cold retention: 46 Degree at 6 hrs
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Snow Peak Ti-Double 300 Mug
If you’re willing to pay the price, this double-walled titanium mug could take a bullet for you. Not really, but it is tough as nails and will keep your oatmeal, tea, or what-have-you piping hot all day long. It comes in some funky fresh metallic shades and features a foldable handle. Not a suitable choice for a cooking vessel.
What makes Snow Peak Ti-Double 300 Mug Unique:
- Made of titanium, this cup will last for as long as you do.
- The foldable metal handles allow the mug to be stored easily.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Made of double-walled vacuum sealed technology, the mug will keep your beverage hot or cold without burning your hands.
- It comes in a variety of metallic finishes.
- Double Wall Insulation: Keeps your coffee or tea warm nearly all day
- Durable: Built to withstand any adventure without adding weight to your backpack
- Easy Storage: Folding handles make the mug easily packable
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re not careful, you might forget you brought this mug along. It is super light and has accordion ribs so you can collapse it down to a mere sliver. This mug conveniently comes with a sealable lid and a handle that can be positioned for eating or scooping. Carry along some oatmeal or pour boiling water over your ramen noodles in this versatile mug.
What makes GSI Outdoors Collapsible Fairshare Mug Unique:
- Made from polypropylene, this mug collapses for ease of storage.
- A folding handle switches between two positions for eating and drinking in one, and scooping and measuring in the other.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- A screw top lid allows for storage and keeps in steam for rehydrating meals.
- Can hold up to 22 fl oz.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: A folding handle folds flat and extends and locks in two positions - one for eating and drinking and one for use as a scoop and measuring cup.
- ADAPTABLE TO ANY SITUATION: With dual uses as a mug and a cup/bowl, use the Fairshare Mug for travelling, at the office or on the trail!
- COMPACT AND CONVENIENT: This mug has a collapsible bellows design that collapses it into a 1.7" high disc, making it easy to pack and take on the go.
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Runner Ups for the Best Camping Mugs for Climbing
Our Runner Ups for the Best Camping Mugs for Climbing While these are not our favorites for the best camping mugs, they are excellent choices and will fit the needs of most individuals.
TOAKS Titanium Single Wall 450ml Cup
Another tough titanium mug, but this one is single-walled so the exterior of the cup heats up a lot more (possibly a pleasant hand warmer on a frosty evening) and this also means the contents lose heat or cold quicker. Very light and has a particularly ergonomic, foldable handle. While suitable for cooking, it is not as efficient as a stainless steel mug as titanium is a poor heat conductor.
What makes TOAKS Titanium Single Wall 450ml Cup Unique:
- Made of titanium, this cup will last for as long as you do.
- The foldable metal handles allow the mug to be stored easily.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Made of single-walled titanium, the mug can double as a cooking vessel without fear of corrosion or damage.
- The high grade of titanium ensures quality and no added taste.
- While titanium is expensive, this cup is a reasonable price.
- Material: Titanium (no coating) Weight: 2.7oz (76g)
- Capacity: 15.2oz (450ml) (measured to the top of cup)
- Dimension: Internal: 3 1/8" (79mm) (D) X 3 1/2" (90mm) (H) Profile: 3 1/2" (88mm) (D) X 3 1/2" (90mm) (H) (measured with handles folded)
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Klean Kanteen Insulated Cup
This cup is probably better suited for those of you looking to store cold beverages. It will keep drinks cool for 10 hours, but only retain heat for 2 hours. This is another contender that is vacuum-sealed stainless steel so the internal temperature won’t transfer to your hands, which is necessary with this design considering there is no handhold.
What makes Klean Kanteen Insulated Cup Unique:
- Made of a double-walled Climate Lock vacuum sealed technology, it keeps your drinks hot for two hours while keeping drinks cold for closer to ten.
- Klean Coat finish is durable and scratch-resistant benefiting you and the environment.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- It comes with a splash-resistant lid.
- It is backed by the Strong as Steel lifetime guarantee.
- Climate Lock double-wall vacuum insulation keeps contents hot or cold for hours
- Chip-resistant Klean Coat finish
- 18/8 food-grade stainless steel
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Stanley Classic Camp Mug
This tried, and true mug has survived the test of time. On the market since 1913, buy one of these and enjoy a lifetime warranty. It preserves the temperature of its contents as well as the latest, top-of-the-line designs, it just doesn’t look as modern, but there’s a certain Rooseveltian vibe to this hefty green mug.
What makes Stanley Classic Camp Mug Unique:
- Based on the classic Stanley design, it has a tried and true history to back it up.
- Made with stainless steel double-walled vacuum-sealed design, this mug keeps drinks hot for two hours, cold for four hours, and iced for twenty hours.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Wide handle design allows you to wear gloves on extra cold days.
- The lifetime warranty means you don’t have to worry about damaging it if you can.
- The flip-top lid allows you to drink while minimizing spills efficiently.
- Vacuum insulation keeps drinks hot 2.5 hours, cold 4.5 hours, or iced 20 hours
- 18/8 stainless steel won’t rust; naturally BPA-free
- Integrated D-ring lets you clip to packs
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
GSI Outdoors Glacier Enamelware Camp Mug
Double-walled means longer-lasting heat or cold retention than its single-walled brethren, and it has a press-to-seal lid with a nifty opening for easy sipping. This design is a little less packer friendly due to the sturdy handle. If only they’d welded on a bigger handle, maybe it would be worth it because at least the grip would be more comfortable, but still a solid mug for the traveler that doesn’t plan to dangle their drink from their pack.
What makes GSI Outdoors Glacier Enamelware Camp Mug Unique:
- Made with stainless steel double-walled vacuum sealed technology keeps your hot stuff hot and your cold stuff cold.
- A press-fit lid allows you to sip from the mug without allowing the contents to splash.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Durable and convenient, it’s simple design makes it perfect for use around camp.
- The welded handle ensures a secure grip.
- Durable 304, 18/8 stainless steel for a lifetime of reliable use
- Double wall insulation helps keep your beverage warm and protected while on the go
- Press-fit lid ensures that you won't spill a drop of your favorite beverage
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our Value Picks for the Best Camping Mugs for Climbing
Our Value Picks for the Best Camping Mugs for Climbing The best value options that we found, these camping mugs will meet your needs without costing you an arm and a leg.
GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug
Definitely unique in appearance because of the lightweight sleeve that insulates the plastic cup underneath. Has a practical sippy lid with a flap that closes the opening, so you don’t have to worry about a squirt of splash-back when tripping over a root. This is made of BPA-free, non-leaching plastic so if you’re going to opt for a plastic mug, this is a smart design that won’t mess with the quality of your drinks.
What makes GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug Unique:
- A light, insulated sleeve helps insulate the mug.
- Made of shatter-resistant BPA free polypropylene.
- It comes in a larger size than many other camping mugs.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- Very lightweight at only 3.5 oz.
- Its wide and shallow design allows it to double as a bowl.
- The sip style flip-top lid prevent spilling while allowing for easy access.
- Graduated measurements allow it to be used as a measuring cup.
- One of the cheapest mugs on the market its value for the cost is excellent.
By the way, if you’re going backpacking, we go in-depth on the best mugs for backpacking in this post.
- INTELLIGENTLY DESIGNED: With a cloth-wrapped insulated neoprene sleeve, non-slip footing, and a sealabe Sip-it lid, this mug keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold while keeping its contents free from spills, trail dust, and critters.
- ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY: Made of 100% recyclable polypropylene, this BPA-Free mug does not only have a small ecological footprint, but will also not hold any odors or impart any tastes on tomorrow's dinner.
- COMPACT AND CONVENIENT: Weighing only 3.5 ounces with the ability to hold 17.5 fluid ounces, the Backpacker Mug is easily collapsible and a necessity for all your adventures.
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sea to Summit X-Mug
Pretty much a half-price version of the Fairshare Mug, but the lower price does come at the cost of some of the accessories. This one lacks a lid or handle, but is still convenient for sitting around with some friends, popping open a few of these foldable X-mugs and pouring everyone a cuppa.
What makes Sea to Summit X-Mug Unique:
- Straightforward collapsible design, this mug is made from European compliant food grade silicone.
- A stiff rim allows the mug to retain its shape for sipping.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- BPA free silicone packs away for easy storage.
- Incredibly cheap, you can buy several for you and your friends to sit around the campfire and sip your cuppa joe.
- Pocket-sized, super lightweight collapsible cup packs that flat for storage or transport
- Food grade silicone is heat resistant, dishwasher safe and ideal for camping, backpacking, or travel
- Rigid Nylon rim holds its shape and provides a comfortable grip for handling hot liquids
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Contigo SnapSeal Byron Travel Mug
Another lid you can rely on—nothing will drip out of this sucker, and anything that comes out will be as toasty or cool as when you put it in. It’s a bargain price for a product that’s similar to the more expensive Zojirushi mug.
What makes Contigo SnapSeal Byron Travel Mug Unique:
- Made with stainless steel, dual walled Thermalock Vacuum sealed technology, this mug will keep beverages warm for up to six hours and cold for up to twelve hours.
- The screw-on lid with Snapseal flip lid technology prevents spills while insulating and enabling easy access to the contents.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- BPA free with a lifetime guarantee.
- Designed for easy one-handed drinking, the shape and material make for a solid grip.
- Fits into most cup holders.
- Similar to the Zojirushi mug, this mug is cheaper, making it an excellent purchase.
- Seal It In: Leak proof lid (when closed) for on the go activities
- For the Long Haul: Drinks stay hot up to 7 hours or cold up to 18 with Thermalock vacuum insulation
- Lend a Hand: Easy one handed drinking
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Coleman 12 oz Enamel Mug
Another classic, you’ve probably come across these mugs more than once. They’re an ol’ reliable on the market. If you want a simple set of cups that will get the job done pack these. They’re not too suitable for lugging on extended treks, but if you’re going a short way and plan to chill in one spot with your buddies, these are a safe investment.
What makes Coleman 12 oz Enamel Mug Unique:
- Mugs just like your dad used to have, their nostalgic appeal adds a certain charm.
- Made of enameled steel, this mug is durable and lightweight.
Why You Should Choose this Camping Mug:
- A no-frills mug, it gets the job done without any fluff.
- A budget-friendly option to suit all needs.
- Durable: Double-coated enamel extends longevity and resilience
- Easy to clean: Completely dishwasher-safe
- Perfect size: Holds 12 ounces and measures at 3.5 x 3.2 inches
Last update: 2024-04-24 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Why You Should Invest in Quality Camping Mugs
Of all camping gear, it’s easy to overlook the value of a quality camping mug. Top of the line climbing gear, sleeping bags, tents, and the like, understandably take priority, but it pays off to shell out some bucks on a mug specially designed for adventure.
Though it’s possible to find budget-friendly, quality mugs (more on that later), most of the cheaper options will cost you more in the long run. The root issue is plastic. Because these more affordable mugs are typically made of plastic, they are less durable, meaning every few trips you may well find yourself purchasing a replacement. Plastic also means there is potential for chemical leakage. When plastic products heat up, chemicals are released into the very liquid you’re about to drink—which is not healthy or tasty. Think of the last time you took a sip from a disposable water bottle someone forgot in the car during a hot afternoon. Yuck. But the amount of that “plastic taste” is dependent on the type of plastic used, so it is still possible to find plastic mugs that minimally taint your beverage. It’s unlikely you’ll find such mugs in the bargain section though.
Similar issues in regards to flavor arise with certain metals. The more reactive a metal, the more it can interact with the contents, adding its own metallic flavors. Titanium is the least reactive, meaning your drink will remain unaltered by the container, however, if you’re hoping to double your mug as a mini pot, titanium is a poor conductor. Heating things at all or heating them evenly will be a pain. Stainless steel will impart a bit of flavor into your drink, but it is functional as cookware.
You have to ask yourself things like, will I cook ramen in this mug? Do I care more about a mug that could hold its shape after a drop from the top of the rock I just scaled or does it matter more that it doesn’t accumulate scratches on the exterior from little drops here and there? Choosing a mug is all about matching it to the rhythm of your journey.
How to Choose the Best Camping Mugs for You
Choosing a camping mug shouldn’t be a difficult decision. However, with so many options, it can get confusing. There are a few key features to be aware of:
Function: the first decision that needs to be made when acquiring a new camping mug is the function it needs to perform. Do you need it to keep your beverage at a stable temperature for a long time? Do you need it to be robust and able to take a beating? Do you need it to double as a cooking vessel? Once you have decided on the function your mug needs to serve, you will be able to choose the characteristics that best make up your mug.
Type: There are three distinct styles of camping mugs available in addition to brand-specific styles.
- Tumblers: this style of coffee mug is the one you find most commonly as giveaways and in coffee shops. They are characterized by a long tapered shape with the top being wider than the bottom. Furthermore, they don’t have handles making insulation important to handle while hot. They tend to have lids that are easily removable and prevent heat loss and keep spillage to a minimum. These types of mugs best fit into cup holders and are best suited for daily use in cars with cup holders.
- Thermos/Flask: these vessels are characterized by their robust design that serves to primarily insulate the contents. They are generally long in design and often come with cups attached. They are the most spill-proof and insulated of all camping “mugs.”
- Mug: closer in design to traditional mugs you will find in your cupboard, they are shorter with a handle. They are often lightweight and durable, but can also be cumbersome and unwieldy. They are the best choice for a camping mug that can also double as a cooking vessel making it the best camping mug for dirtbag climbers and other avid outdoors activities. Typically without a lid, they are the most prone to spillage and thermal changes. Their design makes them inherently unusable with cup holders.
- Other: some brand-specific mugs come in a set with other camping gear, making them an excellent purchase for those who want a convenient set. However, they can be unusual in design and tend to lack the insulation of individually designed camping mugs.
Material: when it comes to the material camping mugs are made of the commonly used materials include silicone, aluminum, enamel-coated metal, and stainless steel. These materials contribute to the thermal efficiency, durability, and weight of the mug.
- Silicone: these mugs are perhaps some of the newest and most innovative material used today. Made of silicone, mugs made of this material tend to be made in the traditional style due to the soft nature of silicone. They are also collapsible, making them easy to pack although limiting their thermal properties as they do not have lids and are thin.
- Aluminum: mugs made of this material can be made into almost any shape. They are lightweight and reasonably durable, although less so than those made of stainless steel or enamel-coated metal.
- Enamel/Ceramic: these are durable materials that will resist a fair amount of damage. They lack thermal efficiency and are unable to hold stable temperatures for extended periods of time. Additionally, robust camping mugs tend to be on the heavy side.
- Stainless Steel: the majority of camping mugs are made of this material due to its durability, low cost, and malleability into almost any shape. Steel being an excellent thermal conductor, high thermal efficiency mugs tend to be vacuum sealed. Some low-quality stainless steel can impart a “metallic” taste to your beverage.
- Other: some additional materials that are used to make camping mugs include titanium, glass, and plastic. While titanium is very durable, it is expensive and an inferior thermal conductor. Plastic is by far the cheapest material but lacks the strength and durability to make a good camping mug.
Insulation: this characteristic plays a vital role in maintaining the thermal stability of your beverage for extended periods of time. There are a few different styles of insulation used with camping mugs.
- Single-walled: these mugs as their name suggests, single-walled such as the mug from which you drink your morning cuppa joe. While durable, they provide little insulation.
- Double-walled: this form of insulation relies on a layer of air trapped between layers. Durable, they provide better insulation to single-walled mugs.
- Vacuum-sealed: an extension of the double-walled design, the vacuum insulation minimizes the transfer of heat through the walls of the vessel. This is by far the most effective form of insulation with most of the heat transfer occurring thought he lid of the mug.
- Insulating Material: some mugs insulate utilizing a layer of thermally weak conducting material that restricts the transfer of heat.
Size/Weight: the size and weight of the mug depend directly on the material from which it is made. Similarly, the size of the vessel directly correlates to increased weight. Depending on the activity you are engaging in, size and weight may be an essential factor.
Lid: having a lid for your mug is very much a personal decision. If you are using it in your car, then you will most likely want a lid to prevent spillage. On the other hand, if you will be using your mug while sitting around the campfire, then a lid is unnecessary and provide more of an irritation than a benefit. There are a few different styles of lids, including flip-tops and screw on. Make sure to select an appropriate lid for your needs as not all lids are created the same, and spillage can be devastating. The lid for you depends entirely on your preference and needs.
Summary of the Best Camping Mugs for Climbing
Putting everything together, in this guide we reviewed a ton.
With so many styles of mug to choose from, it may seem like there isn’t a right one—and you’d be right. While you can’t go wrong with any of these choices, personal preference determines the best camping mugs. You can’t go wrong with our favorite, the Yeti Rambler Mug or any of the others mentioned.
When it comes down to it, asking yourself what type of material your mug should be made out of is most important. Taking the time to figure out what kind of quality mug suits your adventure habits will affect how your beverages will taste, how long they will stay hot/cold, how long you can expect to keep the item before it breaks down, and how easy it’ll be to travel with. By staying mindful about even the little purchases, even intense travels will feel that much smoother.
Did you enjoy this post? If so, check out the one we did on the best mugs for backpackers and the best camping utensils here.
Looking for more camping gear? Check out our camping gear reviews here.
Here are a few to help you out:
