Let’s talk about coffee. The nectar of the gods. The wake up juice that keeps you going, morning, noon, and night. One of the few stimulants that is legal/doesn’t destroy/rarely makes you hallucinate.
Us coffee drinkers have been accused of having an “addiction”, but they’ve got it all wrong: we have a blessed, symbiotic relationship.
We get the crackling energy and the coffee gets the pleasure of tobogganing through our digestive system.
It’s been said that you can have too much of a good thing, but those haters have clearly never felt the sweet bliss of hot coffee in the morning. Or at lunch time. Or in the afternoon. Or really, any time.
Of course, there is one challenge…
How do you keep yourself constantly supplied with good coffee?
It’s a well known fact that coffee quality tends to dip when you travel. You find yourself gagging down hotel coffee, which often tastes like melted linoleum, except with less flavor.
If things really get bad, you may be forced to drink gas station coffee, which is the equivalent of scooping sludge out of a septic tank.
It’s not an option to go without coffee, any more than it’s an option to go without food or water. You LOVE coffee, and the thought of going a single day without is unfathomable.
Thankfully, you don’t have to go into coffee rehab in order to survive when you travel.
There are a number of portable solutions that will allow you to drink astoundingly good coffee wherever you go. You won’t have to settle for McDonald’s sock water or Maxwell “Sweet mother, what is this?” House. You can have your coffee, and drink it too.
In this post, I’m going to break down the best portable coffee makers. No, I’m not going to suggest you lug around a drip coffee maker. You’re going to get the best of the best. And you won’t have to deplete your savings account either.
Let’s get started.
What You May Need For That Perfect Cup
Before we dive into the best small coffee makers, we need to talk about what you may need to make the most glorious, soul-shaking cup of coffee.
First, you’ll need great coffee. That goes without being said. If you’re buying coffee that comes in giant cans, please exit this article and don’t let the browser hit you on the way out.
Second, you’ll need a way to grind the coffee. If you’re using coffee pods, this won’t be a problem. However, some of the devices below require you to grind your coffee.
Third, you need a way to heat water. You’re going to need to heat your water if you’re going to make a decent cup of water that doesn’t taste like goat urine. There are lots of different options, like a portable kettle, a camp stove, your car radiator, etc. Some of the best portable coffee machines (see below options) will boil the water for you.
Small Coffee Makers that You Can Travel With
Here are our top picks for tested small coffee makers you will want to take on your next outing. Across town or around the world with these gadgets you won’t have to worry about missing your coffee fix.
#1 – The NowPresso Portable, Lithium Powered Espresso Machine
This baby is the world’s first lithium powered portable espresso machine, and it’s basically like having a personal Italian barista named Roberto.
Using Nespresso Cups, and NowPresso’s own reusable capsules–which allow you to prepare your own coffee mixtures–you can literally create silky smooth, flavorful espresso with the touch of a button.
It has an air vent lid to allow steam to escape, a water cavity for simple cleaning and measuring the water, a vacuum sealed capsule cap, ensuring the perfect pour, and a heat resistant silicon cup. It will even boil the water for you.
The NowPresso is every coffee drinker’s fantasy:
It also comes with a slick travel bag, allowing you to transport the NowPresso without losing things or dumping them on the ground.
Whether you’re a traveler, camper, hobo, or nomadic camel herder, this is a fantastic solution to get a quick fix where you have control over the quality of your coffee.
To be one of the first coffee drinker to own one of these curious coffee contraptions, you better act fast because the NowPresso by XSPROFIX reached it’s Kickstarter goal of AU$75,00 AND it’s only available on Kickstarter.com until July 5th, 2017.
Update July 6th, 2017: NowPresso remains available for order on Indiegogo’s InDemand store.
Update December 15, 2018: NowPresso is Now Available on Amazon.com:
The NowPresso, like other copycats that have followed it’s lead, is tooled to use Nespresso Coffee pods. You can also buy a reusable coffee capsule that allows you to then use the machine with whatever coffee grounds you choose. We recommend the reusable option for environmental reasons, as there are pro and cons surrounding the use of disposable coffee pods.
The Pros and Cons of Coffee Pods
Coffee pods are aluminum or plastic containers of pre-measured grounds. They feature built-in paper filters. Some companies refer to them as “capsules.” Pods have several major benefits and drawbacks.
Pros
This product offers tremendous convenience. It delivers a fast, simple brewing process; there’s no need to use separate filters or a teaspoon. However, you can’t precisely control the amount of grounds.
Individual units normally stay fresh for a long time. On the other hand, an entire package of instant or ground coffee begins to age when you open it. Air exposure causes the flavor to degrade as time passes.
Pod-based beverage makers use electrical power and water in slightly more efficient ways. This may result in lower utility bills, especially if you brew multiple drinks every day.
Cons
Environmentalists dislike this system because it wastes natural resources by using far more packaging materials than most alternatives. Some pods remain difficult or impossible to recycle.
Although it’s more affordable to use a pod instead of visiting a high-end cafe, it certainly doesn’t provide the most economical option. Both instant and regular ground coffee cost far less.
You’ll need to purchase a specialized appliance before using pods. Unfortunately, it isn’t possible to brew them in a standard machine. Pod coffee makers cost a bit more than basic conventional units.
This product provides a convenient way to rapidly brew beverages while maximizing freshness. However, it typically results in higher expenses and produces waste materials in larger quantities.
#2 – French Press Travel Mug
If you like your coffee like your soul (dark, slightly gritty, acidic), the French Press method is perfect.
You grind your coffee to a coarse texture, then let it soak in boiling water for 3-4 minutes. This method produces a full-flavored, somewhat smoky flavor (like kissing your girlfriend who smokes two packs a day).
There are plenty of travel mug options available, including the Bodum French Press Mug as well as one from Starbucks.
One downside of the French Press method is that there’s usually a bit of grit/coffee sludge in your coffee since the plunger doesn’t usually filter out all the coffee grounds. It’s usually not a big deal though, especially if you’re the kind of person who likes crunching on coffee grounds in their spare time.
You could also pretend you’re a cowboy, minus the horse, leather chaps, overt masculinity, and constant Marlboro cigarette. Your call.
#3 – The AeroPress
Fun fact of the day that you can use to impress/turn off dates: the AeroPress was invented by the same guy who created the Aerobie.
When you want to further impress/turn off, you can point that Aeropress and Aerobie begin with the same four letters, which is a clue to their creator.
You’d think that a frisbee inventor wouldn’t know much about coffee making (a common stereotype), but you’d be wrong. The Aerobie makes a fantastic cup of coffee that’s smoother than a politician avoiding questions about financial impropriety.
The AeroPress is placed on a mug and finely ground coffee is placed in the press on a filter. Hot water is poured on the coffee and you immediately begin depressing the plunger. A vacuum seal is created and the coffee is forced down through the filter, resulting in a flavorful, smooth cup of coffee that makes you smack your lips in a slightly creepy way reminiscent of Hannibal Lecter.
It works so effectively because the coffee and water aren’t in contact that long – usually 20 seconds or so – which results in very little acidity. It’s a pretty amazing feat of engineering actually.
It only has a few parts, which makes it perfect for traveling. The only downside is that you’ll need to have a way to heat your water.
The pour over method of coffee making is a great, all around option.
It’s like a middle ground between all other other methods. It gives you a well rounded flavor that’s not overly smooth like the AeroPress but also not brutally acidic like the French Press. You grind the coffee finer than the French Press but coarser than AeroPress.
If this were (trigger warning) high-school, the pour over would be the guy who everyone kinda liked but who didn’t get the hot girls. The guy voted most likely to work as a mid-level manager at IBM. Right down the middle. Granted, this would be a private school, since the pour over still makes great coffee. It’s still an elite snob.
The cone is placed on the coffee cup, the filter goes in the cone, the grounds go in the filter, and the water seals the deal.
If you’re hardcore, you can use the “bloom” method, where you initially just wet the grounds enough to let the carbon dioxide escape and the flavors expand.
All you need is the cone, the filters, and coffee, all of which can be easily transported in an a bag. It’s easy to clean, takes up minimal space, and delivers a great cup of coffee.
#5 – The Presse Coffee Brewer
It’s a well-known saying that the you can judge a man by the coffee he drinks.
Actually, no one says that, but it should be a saying. Never trust a guy who drinks crappy coffee.
Regardless, the Presse Coffee Brewer allows you to impress (see what I did there?) people with your taste in coffee.
It’s essentially like a French Press, except it has a finer mesh filter, meaning you won’t find yourself accidentally munching on coffee grounds. It only has three parts and doubles as a travel mug, so it’s insanely portable as well.
It should be noted that the lid IS NOT LEAKPROOF! In other words, if this thing is full of coffee/liquor, don’t throw it into your bag next to your laptop.
Nevertheless, this is a good solution that lies somewhere between the AeroPress and the French Press travel mug.
#6 – Lichti Portable Espresso Maker
If you’re an avid camper or hiker who also has a deep passion for espresso, this could have some potential.
The Lichti Portable Espresso Maker is battery free, meaning that the only way to create that espresso shot you’re craving is to use the hand pump that’s built in. Think of like pumping water from a well, except the water gives you immortality and boundless energy.
The pump puts the appropriate amount of pressure on the water and espresso, resulting in a well-crafted espresso shot to soothe your jangling nerves.
The downside here is that you’ll need to grind your own coffee beforehand. If you find yourself in a situation without a grinder, you’re only option will be to grind the beans with your teeth, which doesn’t work particularly well.
Small Coffee Maker Options to Keep You Caffeinated On The Go
Coffee is life and life is coffee.
As the great Dalai Lama said, “The only way to survive in the crazy-ass world is to drink a ton of coffee.” Well, he might not have said that, but it sounds like something he would say.
Thankfully, you don’t have to go without coffee when you’re traveling if you pack along one of the above small coffee makers.
You won’t suffer the crippling darkness that befalls you when you go without your coffee. Rather, every step will be sunshine and energy. You will go about your day with a bounce in your step and a vibrating caffeine buzz.
So get to it. Get your coffee on. After all, it’s been about 5 minutes since you had your last cup.
Go the distance in hiking style with a set of lightweight trekking poles designed to ease discomfort, deliver flexibility, and promote heavy duty trekking.
Whether you are new to the world of hiking or you are an experienced climber, Titan Trekker Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles offer a reliable set of walking sticks that are built to last. They are lightweight, stable, and come with several useful accessories.
This review provides all of the specifications you need to figure out if Titan Trekker is the right brand of trekking poles for you.
The styling of Titan Trekker Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles makes them an ideal choice for individuals at any level of expertise in hiking, backpacking, climbing, mountaineering, or walking.
Their design minimizes the risk of arm fatigue and joint strain, enabling longer adventures and opening up the possibility of trekking difficult terrain.
The retractable nature of these walking sticks allows individuals of different heights to enjoy using them. Each pole can be set for lengths ranging between 24 inches and 56 inches.
Their easy adjustability, lightweight design, and durability allows kids, beginners, women, and men to enjoy using these sticks.
What's Included?
Titan Trekker Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles are crafted from carbon fiber, delivering lightweight styling that is gentle on joints.
Tungsten carbide tips help to create the best possible traction for most types of terrain. An easy-locking system makes adjustments simple.
Cork handles provide a non-slip fit, while also helping to keep sweat away from your hands. This set of trekking sticks also offers extended handle grips, ensuring a good fit for everyone.
The wrist straps are adjustable and padded for the ultimate in comfort.
Your set includes a carry bag, two rubber tips, two rubber feet, two mud baskets, and two snow baskets.
Overview of the Features
Your new set of Titan Trekker Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles offers features fabricated to deliver strength and provide a comfortable fit.
Accessories designed to assist hikers in meeting the needs of different climbing situations are included.
The adjustable design provided by a quick lock system readily allows users to easily collapse their poles for storage or transport.
These versatile poles are easily set for a range of 24 inches and 56 inches. This adjustability also allows hikers of different heights to use these poles with the same level of ease.
The quick lock system also prevents unexpected shifts in the height of your poles. It creates a secure lock for the poles, giving hikers peace of mind at all times.
The handles are crafted from non-slip cork that helps to minimize the accumulation of sweat. Cork also provides a firm but comfortable grip for hikers and walkers alike no matter what type of terrain you are traversing.
There is a grip extension with ridges that delivers additional support whenever the terrain proves to be more difficult to navigate.
The carry bag includes a mesh pocket that you can use to hold a water bottle, spare set of tips, or similarly sized item. Plus, you receive a variety of all-terrain accessories for your adventures.
As you might expect, these walking sticks are extremely lightweight due to the use of 100% carbon fiber in their construction. Each pole weighs 7.6 ounces, making the full weight less than 16 ounces.
The lightweight construction minimizes the impact on your joints and muscles.
Titan stands behind its products. The manufacturer's warranty is good for a full year from the date of purchase.
How to Use
If you've used trekking poles before today, you'll have no problems figuring out how to set up this pair.
It's important to take the time to ensure you've done so properly in order to fully support your body on your adventures.
Once you take your poles out of the package, you'll want to set their height.
The quick lock with flip design allows you to instantly extend your pole shaft and secure it in place.
To measure the correct height, place your poles in an upright position and make sure that the top of each pole should fit into the palms of your hand.
They offer a slightly heavier weight with each pole reaching 9.6 ounces.
This particular set offers a wide range of height settings falling between 24 inches and 53 inches.
The EVA foam grips are comfortable to use and considered to be stronger than cork. Montem provides a lifetime guarantee, a deal that is impossible to beat.
The price is a few dollars more than the Titan Trekker but--because of the aircraft grade aluminum the Montem poles are made from--they will likely last longer than the Titan Trekker carbon fiber poles: the tradeoff is weight for durability if you choose to go with the Montem poles over the Titan Trekker model.
Final Verdict
Titan Trekker Carbon Fiber Trekking Poles feature a superior design and excellent features for novices and experienced hikers alike. They offer perfect fit no matter your age, sex, or chosen activity.
You can hike, climb, or walk through mud, snow, dirt, or rocks like a pro with this set of poles built to support treks on rough terrain and simplify walking for people of all ages and skill levels.
If you are concerned about reducing fatigue and joint strain, this is the set of 100% carbon fiber trekking poles for you. They are shock absorbent, retractable, and lightweight.
With over 5,000 years of rich culture and history, South Korea is one of the best places to visit on any trip to Asia.
This stunning peninsula offers a diverse range of experiences to tantalize the taste buds of even the most experienced traveler.
If a trip to South Korea is on the horizon for you, it may be a good idea to check out the following attractions:
1. Trick Eye Museum
If traditional art galleries aren’t generally your cup of tea, then the Trick Eye Museum in Seoul might be something you would enjoy.
While there are indeed many art pieces scattered throughout the museum, many of them are oversized, rotated or 3D lookalikes.
The beauty of these pieces is that visitors to the museum get swallowed up by these paintings; they can make you feel as though you are hanging off a cliff, climbing a wall or being swallowed by a Venus Flytrap.
2. Third Tunnel of Aggression
North and South Korea have a long history of military aggression towards each other. As such, the development of military tunnels running from North to South Korea began in the 1970s.
It is estimated that North Korea could move 30,000 men per hour into the South’s territory through these tunnels if they chose to do so – though the North has always denied the existence of these tunnels.
South Korea blocked the tunnels off as a form of further protection against the North years ago.
Still, visitors to the DMZ (demilitarized zone) can walk 265 meters down the tunnel and get to experience what using these tunnels must have been like, the site is close to Panmunjom.
This beautiful theme park is an exquisite example of how glass can be used to transform a space into another world.
This theme park is divided into an indoor and an outdoor section.
Everything in the outside section, from waterfalls to fish in ponds and flowers in flower beds, is delicately crafted out of glass.
The inside is no different and features a room of mirrors which can transport visitors into an infinite journey of escapism.
Although nothing in this theme park can be touched, the beauty of the creations certainly has the ability to touch the souls of anyone who visits the park.
4. Seongsan Sunrise Peak
5,000 years ago, hydro-volcanic eruptions formed the volcano upon which the Seongsan Sunrise Peak lies.
This peak, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site some in 2007, is famous for bringing visitors to its edge. It is here that visitors can experience the breathtaking sunrise views.
If you prefer something a little more adventurous, you can hike up the northwest side ridge.
5. Gwang-An Bridge
This bridge, also called the Diamond Bridge, connects Suywong-gy and Haeundae-gu.
Being two-stories above ground offers visitors breathtaking views of surrounding mountains, beaches and glistening city lights.
The only downside to this bridge is the fact that no pedestrians are allowed to cross it, but the site of the bridge from a distance is equally as impressive.
If you lead an active lifestyle that includes backpacking, hiking, camping, trekking, and walking, you may be interested in taking a look at TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles.
These poles deliver more than just the basics when it comes to outdoor adventures. The price is affordable, and the quality is superior to some of the standard walking sticks available today.
TheFitLife products tend to be sturdy and these poles continue the tradition offering stability and support for your weight when you need to take a break.
If you want to learn more, just keep reading this review to get the information you need to make an informed purchase.
TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles deliver the level of strength and stability required by individuals of greater than average height and weight.
The adjustability of the poles enables their use by individuals of smaller girth and height. These lightweight poles are good for hikers at different skill levels.
Embracing a modern trend in styling, the manufacturer of this set offers it in five colors, providing attractive options for both men and women.
Users who prefer help in using their hiking poles will appreciate this pair. It includes a measuring scale and a stop mark to assist them in figuring out accurate positioning.
What's Included?
With your purchase of TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles, you receive a few essentials for your adventures.
In addition to a pair of poles, you get a free carry bag, which is just the right size to transport or store your poles.
This set also includes:
a set of standard-sized rubber tips
a pair of snow baskets
a pair of holders.
Each pole has adjustable wrist straps, a quick lock system, the EVA foam handle, and a rubber grip.
Overview of the Features
TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles offer many beneficial features that most hikers can appreciate.
The poles are noise absorbent, creating a quieter trek than many other models. These walking sticks are easy to collapse and store in a backpack or carry bag when they aren't actively being used.
TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles come with extra-long EVA handles with wrist straps that prevent unwanted slipping. EVA grips are known to absorb moisture and reduce chafing, while being comfortable to hold.
This ultralight pair of trekking poles is also shock absorbent, a feature that protects your knees and minimizes the possibility of joint damage caused by hard impacts. It is important to reduce the force on your knees, even if you aren't having any issues with them currently.
Each pair of poles is corrosion resistant and capable of bearing up to 440 lbs.
These poles are constructed from aviation-grade aluminum, making them one of the strongest styles available today. They are so strong that the risk of bending your poles remains miniscule
It is possible to collapse the poles as short as 26 inches or extend them to a length of 53 inches. Each telescoping pole is labeled with the word "stop" to indicate the maximum extension.
Once the quick locks are securely twisted into place, the poles offer a sturdy aid for trekking on rugged terrain.
It's easy to customize your look, because TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles are sold in several colors, including black, blue, red, silver, and purple.
A 100% money back guarantee is in effect during the initial 180 days. All you need to do is use your poles during that time to ensure you are happy with them.
How to Use
The instructions on how to use your new trekking poles are simple and to the point.
Take your trekking poles out of the packaging.
Grasp one pole by the handle and hold it vertically from the ground up toward your shoulder.
Extend the pole by pulling the bottom part of it all of the way out to the "stop" mark.
Twist the bottom to tighten the pole.
Now you are ready to pull and set the middle section at a length that you feel is suitable for your height.
Tighten your setting securely and insert the correct tips for the terrain you intend to travel.
Alternative
TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles offer a reliable and sturdy option for serious walkers and hikers. However, it is possible that you may want a product that is fitted to your personal measurements.
Each set of poles is tailored for a specific individual in order to create a custom product. The price is higher than a pre-made set of poles.
On the upside, you never need to worry about setting the height of your poles, because this step has already been accomplished for you.
Final Verdict
Whether you are climbing uphill or hiking up a slight include, you need a pair of reliable trekking poles to minimize the impact to your knees and joints.
You may also want to maintain your balance, enhance your stability, and improve your average walking time.
TheFitLife Nordic Walking Trekking Poles can deliver on each of those goals. Not only do they offer anti-shock capabilities, but they also skid resistant.
If you enjoy snow walking, mountain climbing, or hiking on rugged terrain, this pair of poles have the features needed for a safe trek.
Are you ready to enjoy the outdoors with a fantastic trek? Do you need a reliable and affordable pair of hiking poles? High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles will help you get your exercise and let you have your fun at the same time.
These trekking poles are sturdy, lightweight, and easy-to-use. They also deliver stability, allowing you to tackle uneven terrain without difficulty.
If you'd like to know more before making your purchase, keep reading this in-depth review. It includes important details such as pole height and included accessories. Find out now if High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles are a good fit for you.
With a range of 25 to to 55 inches, High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles are good for short-to-tall hikers.
The quick lock design simplifies changing the height of the poles, creating a user-friendly way to fit them for your needs.
With five color options, they are suitable for men and women. In fact, couples can easily keep track of their own poles when they choose two different color options.
Due to their sturdy construction, these trekking poles can ease walking for people who have difficulty navigating pathways on their own. Their simple design helps to improve mobility for individuals dealing with joint issues.
What's Included?
Sold as a streamlined hiking stick option, your High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles include only the essentials.
Your purchase comes with replaceable rubber tips designed to strengthen your hiking sticks, tungsten carbide tips and protective covers, and mud baskets designed to prevent the poles from slipping into the ground.
If you opt to buy the accessory kit, which can be purchased separately, you get a set of snow baskets, monster feet, and a carrying bag.
Your purchase also includes a one year manufacturer's warranty on defects.
Overview of the Features
High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles are crafted from lightweight aerospace-grade aluminum, which gives them their strength and durability.
They easily support your body weight, minimizing the risk of fatigue and cramping on long treks for fit individuals and short ones for walkers with injuries or limited mobility.
Each pole weighs only 10.7 ounces each when the protective tips and snow baskets are attached.
An easy flip motion is used to collapse the poles for easy storage, transport, or height adjustment. Despite being simple to use, the quick lock provides a secure placement for your pole height, even while trekking on uneven terrain. These easy-to-use lever locks prevent accidental retraction.
The flip locks assist you in retracting your poles to 25 inches for easy storage in a carry bag or backpack. The poles fold easily for quick storage. Just pack up your gear and you are ready to go in minutes.
The sweat-absorbing EVA grips keeps moisture at bay. They are large and comfortable, adding to the fun of your journey. You can easily prevent accidental drops by slipping your hands through the wrist straps each time that you use your trekking poles.
The tungsten tips are suited for difficult terrain. and the rubber tips for softer ground. Both types offer an added layer of protection for the bottom of your poles, and they are easily replaced.
If you are one of the many hikers who want a touch of color for their trekking poles, you won't be disappointed. High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles are currently available in five attractive colors, including Cloverfield Green, Sky Blue, Pink, Purple Sky, and QuickSilver.
How to Use
Even if you are new to hiking, High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles are easy to use.
Once you receive your poles, use the twist lock device to adjust their height. The lock stays in place, preventing accidentally collapsing your poles.
You may need to adjust the height of your poles throughout your trek, depending on the inclines and terrain that you encounter.
Be sure to place your hand through the wrist strap and wrap your hand firmly around the padded grip for a secure, comfortable fit.
When needed, mud and snow baskets attach easily to the feet of your poles.
Alternative
Maybe you aren't sure that High Trek is offering you exactly what you want in your walking sticks.
If this is the case, consider Foxelli Trekking Poles. They have the same length as the pair described here, and they are extremely lightweight.
You will pay approximately twice as much for a pair from Foxelli as you would a set from High Trek.
However, a number of accessories are included in your purchase, including mud baskets, asphalt tips, rubber tips, and snow baskets.
Final Verdict
If you enjoy adventures in nature, you should take advantage of a pair of trekking poles offering affordability, portability, and stability.
High Trek Premium Ultralight Trekking Poles provide one of the longest heights available today along with a lightweight construction delivering strength and durability.
The wide variety of colors adds personality to your poles.
Both men and women can use these poles, which provide an easy quick lock system to adjust the height with ease. It's important to note that this style of trekking poles is better suited to moderate hiking conditions rather than to extreme ones.
