We have been backpacking for a long time, and having a backpacking mug is no less than a great blessing. Over the years of hiking and backpacking, we used plenty of backpacking mugs. We have shortlisted and reviewed the best backpacking mugs based on our experience, backcountry people’s favorites, and discussion with industry experts.
Our team put the mugs through extensive field testing to find out which one of them is best for backpacking. The mugs were evaluated based on their durability, weight, capacity, insulation, and versatility. We also looked at how easy they are to clean and transport. After using it for months, we found that the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is the best backpacking mug on the market. In addition, we also reviewed the best camping mugs, which are a little heavier and bigger than backpacking mugs.
Quick Recommendations
- Best Overall Backpacking Mug: GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug
- Best Lightweight Option: TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup
- Best Collapsible Backpacking Mugs: Sea to Summit X-Series Collapsible Mug
Backpacking Mugs Types
- Single Wall backpacking mugs are an excellent option for hikers concerned about weight and size. They don’t provide much insulation, but they’re perfect for backpacking. Since they are versatile, you can use them for coffee, tea, or even soup. If you’re looking for a mug to help you save space and weight, then a single-wall backpacking mug is the way to go.
- Double wall mugs provide excellent insulation, making them ideal for cold environments. They also tend to be more durable than single-wall mugs, as the double walls offer additional durability and insulation. However, double-wall mugs are also more expensive than single-wall ones and heavier than single walls. As such, if you need a mug that is lightweight and easy to carry, a single-wall mug is a better option. However, suppose you require superior insulation and are willing to accept the added weight. In that case, a double-wall mug is a way to go.
- Collapsible backpacking mugs are an excellent option for backpackers looking to save on space and weight. These mugs can be easily stored in a backpack and are usually very affordable. However, collapsible mugs do not provide much insulation. Additionally, some collapsible mugs may not be durable, depending on the material.
Best Overall Backpacking Mug
1. GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug
GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is a popular option among backpackers due to its lightweight and compact design. The mug is made from BPA-free materials and features a cloth wrap that helps to keep drinks hot or cold for extended periods. Additionally, the Infinity mug is odor-resistant, unlike a few other mugs we used. The handle is flexible and foldable, and you can fold it and pack it easily in a backpack.
Weighing in at just 3.5 oz, which makes it one lightweight option. In addition, we loved the measuring marks inside the cup, which is helpful while preparing mountain house meals. The insulation is not great compared to some expensive insulation mugs. Still, it does provide reasonable insulation using its beautiful cloth cover.
Additionally, the sealing lid also helps to keep the drink hot for a while. It prevents spilling if you drop the cup accidentally on the trail. You can remove its cover to clean and see the measuring when needed. The mug is lightweight and compact to fit in your backpack.
It is lightweight and has a soft handle that makes it easy to grip. The design also prevents accidental spills. We have used this mug on many backpacking trips, and it has never let us down. It is also reasonably priced and holds enough liquid for a cup of tea or coffee.
We even carry our tea packs and milk powder inside the cup on the trail. The soft handle is a bit tricky to use, but with time you will easily get used to it. Overall, the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker mug is the best for backpacking due to its price, weight, and design.
Best Lightweight Option
2. TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup
The TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup is another great option for backpacking lovers. This mug is constructed from titanium, an ultralight and durable material. Its weight is just 2.7 ounces, less than even the Infinity mug, so you can save weight during your backpacking trips. This mug also has a mesh sack to store and pack in the backpack.
The TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup is one of the lightest weight cups on the market, making it a popular choice among backpackers. Its single-wall design makes it even lighter than double-wall cups. One of the good advantages of this mug is its ability to use it on open fires or camp stoves. Even after drinking while the mug was hot, we did not face lip burn issues. In addition to its lightweight design, the TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup is also highly durable due to its quality material.
One downside of this cup is that it is not big enough to cook meals in, but it is still a great option for carrying water or other beverages. The handles on the cup can get warm, so be careful when handling it. However, the heat will disperse after a few minutes, and you will be able to touch it without any problem.
The handle is also light and sturdy, making it easy to carry the cup around. Another downside of this cup is that it does not come with a lid, so you will need to purchase one separately. Overall, the TOAKS Titanium 450ml Cup is a great choice for those looking for a lightweight and durable cup.
Best Collapsible Backpacking Mugs
3. Sea to Summit X-Series Collapsible Mug
As a backpacker, I know that space is always at a premium. That’s why I’m always looking for collapsible and lightweight gear that can save me some precious space in my pack. The Sea to Summit X-Series Collapsible Mug is a great option for backpackers who need a compact, lightweight mug that won’t sacrifice durability or quality.
This mug is made from glass and silicone. It has a capacity of 480 ml, more than enough for coffee or tea. Additionally, You can easily fit it in your pocket after collapsing it to save space.
This mug performed excellently during our backpacking trips, even though it looked cheap after looking into the pictures. The mug is resistant to heat and cold and dishwasher safe, which is a plus. Additionally, the mug is very compact and folds flat, making it easy to store in a backpack or jacket pocket. We were even able to put it in our jackets for on-the-go drinks. The color of the mug is also attractive, and we found it very easy to keep clean.
The Sea to Summit X-Series Collapsible Mug is a great backpacking mug. It’s grippy from the outside and doesn’t slip even if your hands are wet. Its weight is 2.5 ounces which is still not the ultralight. But its storage space is minimal, which makes it great for backpacking. We noticed some taste after the first few uses, but it went away.
The base could have been wider for extra stability while putting on the rocks, but it’s not a big concern. Overall, we like this mug and would recommend it to anyone looking for a good backpacking mug.
4. UCO Collapsible Cup
The UCO Collapsible Cup is a small, ultralight backpacking mug that is easy to fold after use. Made of plastic, it is safe to put boiling water in the cup, and the handle is easy to hold. We love taking this mug with us when we go backpacking as it completes our mess kit.
The Sea to Summit X-Series Collapsible mug is also an excellent option for backpacking. Still, it is slightly larger and heavier than the UCO Collapsible Cup. Both mugs are great options for hikers who want a lightweight and easy-to-use mug.
The UCO Collapsible Cup is an excellent option for those looking for a space-saving cup. This cup is much smaller than other cups on the market, making it ideal for those with limited space.
However, this cup does have a couple of drawbacks. First, the measurements are not very visible inside the cup. This can make it difficult to know how much liquid is in the cup. Secondly, the cup can leave a slight taste of your drink in the cup. This is because the cup is made of silicone, a porous material. While this is not a major issue, it can be annoying for some users. The UCO Collapsible Cup is a great option for those looking for a space-saving cup.
Best For Insulation
5. Snow Peak Double Wall Mug
If you’re looking for a mug that will keep your drinks hot during cold-weather backpacking trips, then the Snow Peak Double Wall Mug is a great choice. This mug features double-wall construction to insulate your drinks and keep them hot for extended periods. Although it’s slightly heavier than some other mugs on the market, the extra weight is worth it for the added insulation.
Snow Peak is a Japanese company that expanded its product line to include items for backpacking and outdoors. The Snow Peak Double Wall Mug is a classic design that has been updated for modern hikers. The mug is made from titanium, which is lightweight and durable. The mug also has a spill-resistant lid that helps to prevent accidental spills.
It is lightweight and compact but has a 14 fl oz capacity, making it perfect for coffee or tea. However, the price is very high for such a small mug, and does not come with a carrying pouch. Despite these drawbacks, the Snow Peak Double Wall Mug is well-made and will last for years.
The double wall design helps to keep the mug warm longer than my regular mugs, and the handle is also foldable, which is a great feature. The mug is also a bit more expensive than my regular mug, but it is worth it. Although it is slightly more expensive than other mugs, the Snow Peak Double Wall Mug is worth the investment.
How To Choose a Backpacking Mug
A good backpacking mug should be lightweight, durable, easy to clean, and also insulated in some cases. The mug should also have a comfortable handle that is easy to grip, even when your hands are cold or wet. In addition, it is crucial to choose a mug that fits easily into your backpack. Here is the guide to choosing the backpacking mug:
Weight & Size
Before choosing a backpacking mug, the weight and size are the first things that come into minds. We always look for smaller gears with less weight that can do the job effectively. While shortlisting the backpacking mugs, we kept the weight and size in mind to prepare the list. There are some collapsible options available as well for small storage.
The weight of the mug is an important consideration while backpacking, as every ounce counts while you are on the trail. Size is mainly a personal preference. We also use a mug to prepare some meals while backpacking. In such cases, we try to carry bigger mugs that can be used as a mug and cook basic foods.
Material
When it comes to backpacking mugs, the material is an important factor to consider.
- Titanium is durable and extremely light, making it a great choice for those who want a lasting mug. But Titanium mugs are expensive compared to other mugs.
- Stainless steel is the most common material for backpacking mugs, as it is durable and affordable. You can use it on an open fire and on top of your gas stove.
- Aluminum is another popular choice, as it is lightweight and relatively inexpensive. However, aluminum mugs are less durable than stainless steel or titanium ones.
- Plastic is the least expensive option but also the least durable. However, This is a lightweight option.
- Silicone is becoming increasingly popular for backpacking mugs. It is light, flexible, and inexpensive compared to Titanium.
Environment
While choosing a backpacking mug, it is important to consider the environment in which it will be used. Look for suitable materials, such as stainless steel or titanium, if you need a cup that you can use on flames or an open fire.
Stainless steel is an inexpensive and durable option resistant to rust and corrosion. Titanium is more expensive but is also more lightweight and has higher heat resistance. If you are using your mug in a remote area with no access to clean water, consider an insulated mug that will keep your drinks hot or cold for extended periods.
FAQs
Are titanium backpacking mugs worth it?
Many backpackers opt for titanium mugs as its light and durable. In addition, titanium conducts heat well, so your coffee will stay hot longer. And when it comes time to clean up, titanium mugs are very easy to scrub with just a little soap and water. Titanium is a lightweight metal often used to manufacture high-end sports equipment, such as golf clubs and tennis racquets.
Titanium is also known for its durability, which is why it is often used in the construction of aircraft and spacecraft. However, titanium’s durability comes at a price, and titanium cups are typically more expensive than their stainless steel or aluminum counterparts. But are they worth the extra cost? Titanium cups are more durable than other types of cups and are also resistant to corrosion.
In addition, titanium cups have a unique look that can add a touch of style to any kitchen. As a result, titanium cups are worth the investment for anyone looking for a high-quality cup that will last for years to come.
Summary
We hope you liked our list of the best backpacking mugs. Our list is based on extensive research, field usage, discussion with industry experts, and other backpacker reviews. We also included a handy buying guide, including a few FAQs. We believe this list will help you choose the backpacking mug for your needs.
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