Make the Best Morning Cup of Joe with these RV Coffee Makers
As sleep-deprived parents of two active teens, we appreciate brewing the best cup of coffee at home or traveling in our Fifth Wheel RV. During the last 4+ years of RV travel Sara and I have tried an endless number of coffee makers to find the best coffee maker for RV life!
Our taste buds suffered from crummy cowboy coffee to over-brewed syrup like Moka Pot and then to the mess of French Pot and more, we’ve experimented and found the winners and losers. Grab your favorite cup of joe, and let’s go!
Introduction to the Best Coffee Makers for RV Life
Coffee is more than a drink, it’s an expression of creativity. The combination of perfectly roasted beans and filtered water all brewed at the perfect temperature to create a drink fit for a king or queen can make or break your day.
Okay I should stop being so dramatic…it’s just coffee, right? Before we start heating the water for the perfect pour over let’s cover why choosing the right coffee maker is so important.
Beans, Water, Brewing Times
The perfect cup of coffee depends on several factors like beans, water, brewing times and temperatures, and the style of brewing your coffee. If you are a double latte with a half pump of sugar free vanilla kind of guy, like me, the best coffee maker for RV life is going to look a whole lot different than guy roping steers in the canyon drinking black coffee from the kettle! Besides your choosen perfect cup of coffee type, in your RV you have to consider space and power sources.
Space Constraints
In our first travel trailer, kitchen space was super tight! We had limited cabinet space and even less counter space, so we needed a coffee maker that packed a lot of punch for it’s size. Our Keystone Cougar fifth wheel has space for days, but we still like to travel lite. So my Mr. Coffee Espresso maker might be the best coffee maker ever, but it’s not super portable for RV life! Decisions, decisions, decisions!
Power Considerations
It’s Electric, Woogie Woogie Woogie.
If you’re like 99% of mankind you know if it has a plug you plug it in and turn it on and things just work. Well, in an RV power consumption can get tricker. If your RV is a 30 AMP running the microwave, airfryer, and coffee maker is probably gonna cause a problem. Plan accordingly…make your coffee first!
It’s kind of like putting your oxygen mask on in an emergency on an airplane, putting your mask on, then deciding if you want to help your kids! Just kidding, help your kids. In this case, make some coffee before toasting up the perfect air fryer cinnamon buns. Yum!
Great with those pesky details out of the way let’s get to the reason you’re hear…the Best Coffee Maker for RV travel!
Best Coffee Maker for RV – What to Consider
Ease of Use
What good is the best coffee machine if it’s a pain in the neck?
When we bought our first RV, we walked through Walmart’s aisle to figure out what we had to have; at the top of the list was a coffee kettle. I had visions of sitting at the fireside in the early morning, brewing the most delicious cup of coffee ever. And we bought the cowboy coffee-making kettle.
We tried it once and….NEXT! It wasn’t easy to use. We needed ground coffee, which meant bringing it from home, grinding it on site, or worse, drinking instant coffee. YUCK! So set up was not super easy and clean up was a pain. In case you didn’t know most RVs don’t have a garbage disposal so dumping all the coffee grinds was a pain.
We’re high maintenance!
Minimal Setup
Beyond ease of use, set-up the night before needs to be super easy. Get the coffee maker out, pour in some water, have the coffee ready and waiting for action and lights out. The whole set up needs to take less than 2 minutes! Or it’s too much effort!
Plus less setup means less to take down and pack up before you head out to your next destination. On our trips across the country, making two cups of coffee and stowing the coffee maker quickly is super important.
Easy Opertions
On the 2:30 AM wake up calls to see the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain, you appreciate the simple push of a button to get the process started. Suffice to say burning 5 minutes slowly and methodically pouring hot water over your coffee is not the best use of time at 2:35 AM. On vacation, easy almost always wins. Save Pour Over for snowy Saturday mornings!
Space-Saving Solutions
When selecting a coffee maker for your RV, space is a premium. Here are a few tips to find coffee makers with a small footprint that fit perfectly in an RV:
- Opt for a Compact Design: Look for coffee makers specifically designed for small spaces. Single-serve pod machines or compact drip coffee makers are often slim and can fit neatly into tight spaces.
- Choose a Multi-Function Unit: Consider a coffee maker that also doubles as a hot water kettle or an all-in-one machine that can brew different types of coffee, minimizing the need for multiple appliances.
- Consider Manual Options: A French press or Aeropress takes up minimal space, requires no electricity, and is easy to store, making them perfect for RV living.
Counter Space
Maximizing limited counter space in your RV can be a challenge, but with the right coffee maker, you can make the most of it:
- Choose Foldable or Collapsible Models: Some coffee makers, like silicone drip cones or collapsible kettles, can be folded down when not in use, leaving your counters clutter-free.
- Store Under the Cabinet: Look for under-cabinet storage solutions or mounting options that keep your coffee maker off the counter and out of the way when it’s not in use.
Storage Considerations
Storing your coffee maker in an RV requires some clever thinking to ensure space efficiency:
- Designate a Specific Storage Spot: Assign a dedicated spot for your coffee maker in a cabinet or pantry. This reduces clutter and keeps your coffee-making essentials organized and easy to find.
- Use Storage Bins or Drawers: Store small coffee makers in bins or drawers to keep them secure while driving. This also helps prevent damage from items shifting during travel.
- Secure Loose Parts: For coffee makers with multiple components (like a French press or drip machine), use zippered pouches or small storage containers to keep everything together, preventing loss and making it easier to set up when needed.
Power Source
When brewing coffee in an RV, considering your power source is crucial. Here’s how to navigate the different options available:
- Electric Power: Electric coffee makers are convenient and come in various sizes. However, they can be power-hungry. If your RV is connected to shore power, an electric coffee maker might be your go-to. For off-grid camping, consider using an inverter to run your electric coffee maker off your RV’s battery system, but be mindful of the power draw, especially if you’re running other appliances.
- Propane Power: Propane stoves are a reliable alternative, especially for off-grid adventures. They don’t rely on your RV’s battery or electrical system, making them perfect for boondocking. You can use a stovetop coffee maker, such as a Moka pot or a percolator, which is designed to sit directly on a propane burner.
- Solar Power: Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular among RVers. With the right setup, you can harness the sun’s power to run small electric coffee makers. Solar is eco-friendly and perfect for long-term off-grid living. However, you’ll need to ensure your solar system and battery bank are robust enough to handle the load, especially during cloudy days or early mornings.
Solar Panels
Using solar panels to power your coffee maker is an innovative way to enjoy your brew while staying off-grid. Here’s how to make it work:
- Invest in a High-Efficiency Solar System: Ensure your RV is equipped with high-quality solar panels and a reliable battery bank. This setup can provide the necessary power to run small appliances, including your coffee maker, without draining your batteries quickly.
- Use a Low-Wattage Coffee Maker: To maximize the efficiency of your solar setup, opt for a low-wattage coffee maker. Single-serve pod machines or manual brewers with an electric kettle are excellent choices as they consume less power.
- Monitor Your Power Usage: Keep an eye on your power consumption, especially if you’re running multiple devices. Consider brewing your coffee during peak sunlight hours when your solar panels are generating the most power.
Smaller systems like this Jackery provide 1,000-watt hours and are easy to set up and portable. Or larger RV systems that provide even more power.
Propane Stove
Brewing coffee on a propane stove is a tried-and-true method for RVers who love simplicity and reliability. And it’s must easier and faster than the firepit!
Here’s how to get the most out of this option:
- Choose Stovetop Coffee Makers: Use a coffee maker designed for stovetop use, such as a Moka pot, percolator, or even a French press (by boiling water on the stove). These methods are straightforward and don’t require electricity.
- Be Mindful of Propane Consumption: While propane is efficient, monitoring your usage is essential. We monitor our propane with this Truma propane gas indicator tool. The best part is it’s so easy to use! Refill your propane tanks regularly to avoid running out during your trip.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: When using a propane stove indoors, always ensure your RV is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of harmful gases. Crack a window or use a vent fan to maintain airflow while brewing your coffee.
Types of Coffee Makers for RVs
A simple search on Amazon for “coffee maker” returns over 3,000 coffee makers! As RVers we have OPTIONS! And if you want to try a new way of brewing the best cup of coffee, you’re in luck because the small, light weight portable option is readily available!
After trying all the methods, we found that using an electric coffee maker is the best choice for our RV lifestyle. Here are the most popular options for Coffee Makers for RVs.
Electric Coffee Maker
Electric coffee makers are a convenient option for RVers, offering ease of use and a variety of brewing styles. Here’s a closer look at some popular choices:
Hamilton Beach and Similar Brands
Hamilton Beach is a trusted brand known for producing reliable, affordable, and easy-to-use coffee makers. For RV owners, Hamilton Beach offers several compact models and feature programmable settings, making them ideal for early mornings on the road.
Their single-serve coffee makers like this Single-Serve Coffee maker are particularly popular among RVers because they brew directly into a travel mug, saving space and reducing the need for extra dishes.
Compact Coffee Maker
Space and weight are always concerns in an RV. Finding a compact coffee maker is crucial.
Look for models that are designed specifically for small spaces, such as the Keurig K-Mini or Black+Decker’s compact drip coffee makers. These units take up minimal counter space and can often be stored easily when not in use. We use a K-cup coffee maker and love it because it’s reliable, easy to use, and takes up only a small amount of space! However, K-Cups are wasteful and create trash. There are tradeoffs.
Pro Tip: Reduce the waste with a refillable K-Cup.
Another great option is a foldable or collapsible coffee maker, which can be tucked away when you’re not brewing.
Manual Coffee Maker
Manual coffee makers are perfect for those who prefer a hands-on brewing experience and don’t want to rely on electricity. They are also lightweight and easy to store, making them ideal for RV travel.
French Press Coffee
French Press coffee is one of our favorite ways to enjoy the perfect cup of coffee. However, we find our traditional French Press is a pain to keep clean on the road in our RV. Most of the grinds we dump in the trash, but it’s tough to get all of them out and we do NOT like putting them down the drain.
However, many RVers, especially those who boondock or dry camp, like the French press because it does not use electricity and has minimal setup. Simply add coffee grounds and hot water, let it steep, and press the plunger. Cleanup is straightforward (for non-high-maintenance people like Sara and me), and its compact design makes it easy to store in small spaces.
Pro Tip: Our perfect brewing method is using course grinds appx 40 to 45 grams of coffee with approximately 30 ounces of water heated to 190 to 195 degrees fahrenheit. I like to pour enough water in to cover the grinds and stir for 30 seconds. Then I pour in the rest of the water, stir 3 to 5 times and let it steep for 4 minutes. Plunge the press and enjoy an excellent cup of coffee!
Aeropress Coffee Maker
During Covid, I experimented with so many coffee-making options, and I really liked the Aeropress. I love this easy-to-use and FAST brewing method. It’s a mix of pour-over coffee, YUM!, and French Press. The Aeropress is also quick to brew, taking just a few minutes to make a smooth, rich cup of coffee with minimal cleanup.
The Aeropress is compact, lightweight, and durable, making it ideal for life on the road. It’s highly versatile, allowing you to make espresso-like shots, regular coffee, or even cold brew.
Clean-up is a breeze! Just “plunge” the used grounds into the trash, rinse, dry, and put away!
We recommend the Aeropress and a collapsable water kettle.
Moka Pot
The Moka pot offers a traditional stovetop brewing method that produces a strong, espresso-like coffee. It’s perfect for RVers who enjoy a robust cup without needing a full espresso machine.
The Moka pot is durable, easy to use, and doesn’t take up much space, making it an excellent choice for stovetop brewing on a propane or electric stove.
My challenge with the Moka pot is keeping my coffee from burning after it brews. When I get it right the coffee is silky smooth and delicious.
Cowboy Coffee
Full Disclaimer: We tried this once and thought the coffee tasted like brown, untreated well water. So we tossed the Cowboy Coffee Kettle. And. Never. Looked. Back!
For those who prefer a rustic, no-frills coffee experience, cowboy coffee is a simple method that requires nothing more than a pot, water, and coffee grounds. This method is perfect for boondocking or camping trips where you don’t have access to a traditional coffee maker.
Simply boil water, add your coffee grounds, let it steep, and pour. While it may take a bit of practice to perfect, cowboy coffee is a great way to enjoy a hot cup of joe anywhere your RV takes you.
Espresso Machine
If you’re a coffee snob enthusiast who can’t go without a daily shot of espresso, there are portable espresso machines designed for RV use. These machines offer the rich, intense flavor of espresso in a compact form.
We would recommend either the Nespresso or the Aeropress. We use the Nespresso at home, and it brews delicious espresso, which is just about perfect and at a fraction of the cost of the coffee shop!
Espresso Lovers and the Preferred Brewing Method
When choosing a portable espresso machine for your RV, consider your preferred brewing method (manual, electric, or fully automated).
If your RV is a super small travel trailer you may want a manual machine because of space constraints. The Wacaco Nanopresso Portable is a perfect option for brewing espresso! The Nanopresso is small enough to fit in your pocket! Heat your water, grind your beans, and you’re good to go!
The Maestri House Espresso Machine is a great choice for a small, portable electric espresso maker. The Maestri House even heats the water in about 2 minutes! If you have more counter space like in a fifth wheel or a huge motorhome, you may try the Nespresso Inissia is a compact, electric choice.
Power Requirements
Espresso machines generally require more power than other coffee makers, so it’s essential to consider your RV’s power setup. A manual machine may be your best bet if you’re running on solar or battery power. If you have shore power, which we always do, or a generator, an electric espresso machine can provide the convenience of a café-style coffee experience on the road.
Choosing the Right Coffee Maker
Price Range
Sara and I are cost conscious shoppers. We look for the best value whether shopping for our home or RV. We want products that work as expected every time!
The nerdy accountant in me always harps on price, so here’s a quick overview of what to expect in different price ranges:
Budget-Friendly Options ($20 – $50): In this range, you’ll find basic manual coffee makers like French presses, pour-over sets, and smaller, single-serve electric machines. These are great for minimalists or those just starting out with RV coffee-making.
Mid-Range Options ($50 – $150): This range offers a broader selection of compact electric coffee makers, including drip machines and single-serve pod systems. You’ll also find portable espresso makers and higher-quality manual options like the Aeropress or a sturdy Moka pot.
Premium Options ($150 – $300+): For those willing to invest in their coffee experience, this range includes advanced electric coffee makers with programmable features, high-end portable espresso machines, and multi-function units that offer various brewing styles in one compact machine.
Extra Cost Considerations
I might have mentioned I like pinching pennies! At home, I like to reuse my Nespresso pods 2 or 3 times before tossing them in the trash. It’s good for the earth and my wallet! On the road, we tend to favor convenience.
The nerd in me wants to make sure you’re aware of a few additional costs to keep in mind:
Reusable Filters: While many coffee makers come with reusable filters, some may require you to purchase them separately. Reusable filters are a great way to save money and reduce waste, but they can add to the upfront cost. Reusable filters might be nice, but messy. So, consider that in the smaller space of your RV you may not want the extra mess!
Accessories: Depending on your coffee maker, you might need to purchase accessories like a grinder for whole beans, a kettle for boiling water, or storage containers for coffee grounds. These extras can add up, so factor them into your budget. Not only do these add additional cost, but they also add extra STUFF to store in your RV!
Maintenance and Replacement Parts: Over time, parts like seals, gaskets, or filters may need replacement. Consider the availability and cost of these parts when choosing your coffee maker. We view this as a fix or buy decision point. If we get 2 or 3 years from a coffee maker, then we’re good to toss it and buy a new one!
Delivery Time
Sara is the planner in our house and I wait until the last minute! Don’t ruin your camping trip because you waited too long to order the best coffee maker for RV life. Here’s how delivery time can impact your decision:
Plan Ahead: If you’re planning a trip and need a coffee maker delivered to your home before you hit the road, make sure to order it well in advance. This ensures you have time to test it out and familiarize yourself with its operation. In our house, this is Sara and not me! I start pressing buttons and hope for the best! But, I agree this is smart way to make sure your morning starts off right.
Consider Shipping to Your Location: If you’re already on the road and need a coffee maker delivered, look for retailers that offer quick shipping options to RV parks or campgrounds. Be careful; some RV parks don’t like to receive packages for their guests. Weird!
Check Return Policies: Don’t get left with a subpar machine! Make sure you can return or exchange the coffee maker if it doesn’t fit your expectations! Amazon and Walmart tend to have good return policies. And both are readily accessible from the road!
Type of Coffee & Personal Preferences
In our house, coffee is a way of life. A hot cup of coffee on a cool fall morning or cold winter day is the perfect pick-me-up! In the summer, I really enjoy cold brew coffee poured over ice. Yum!
In other words, don’t ignore your coffee preferences, and go all spartan to get the most miniature coffee maker possible! Otherwise, you might end up with a useless Cowboy Coffee Kettle like I did! I guess I was all hat and no cattle!
Here are a few thoughts to consider when choosing the right coffee maker:
Espresso vs. Drip Coffee: If you prefer a strong, concentrated shot of espresso, look for portable espresso machines or stovetop options like the Moka pot. For those who enjoy traditional drip coffee, compact electric drip machines or single-serve pod systems might be the best fit.
Manual vs. Electric: Consider whether you prefer the hands-on experience of manual brewing methods, like the French press or Aeropress, or the convenience of an electric machine. Manual methods often require more time and effort but can produce a richer, more personalized cup of coffee.
Multi-Functionality: If you like to switch up your coffee routine, look for a multi-functional coffee maker that can brew different styles. Some machines offer drip, espresso, and even cold brew options, catering to a variety of tastes. We have a Mr. Coffee Espresso and Cappuccino Machine at our home base. This thing is fantastic for mixing up our coffee drinks. It’s large and not great for traveling!
Ground Coffee vs. Whole Beans
How you prefer your coffee—ground or whole beans—can also influence your choice:
Ground Coffee: If convenience is key, using pre-ground coffee can save time and simplify your setup. Many coffee makers, especially electric ones, are designed to work seamlessly with ground coffee. Just make sure to store your grounds in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Whole Beans: For coffee aficionados, grinding whole beans just before brewing can enhance the flavor and aroma of your coffee. If you opt for whole beans, you’ll need a grinder, which is an extra piece of equipment to store in your RV. However, many believe the superior taste is worth the extra effort and space.
Different Flavors & Brewing Process
The flavor profile of your coffee can vary significantly depending on the brewing method you choose. Here’s how different coffee makers impact the taste of your brew:
Drip Coffee Makers: Drip machines generally produce a clean, straightforward cup of coffee. The water drips evenly through the grounds, extracting a balanced flavor. This method is ideal for those who prefer a classic, mild coffee without too much complexity.
French Press: The French press brews coffee by steeping the grounds in hot water, which allows for a full extraction of flavors and oils. This method results in a rich, robust cup with a heavier body, making it a favorite for those who enjoy bold, intense coffee.
Aeropress: The Aeropress uses a quick immersion process, forcing water through the coffee grounds under pressure. This method produces a smooth, concentrated coffee that can be adjusted in strength and flavor by altering the brewing time and water temperature. The result is often a cleaner taste than the French press but with more depth than drip coffee.
Moka Pot: The Moka pot brews coffee by passing boiling water pressurized by steam through ground coffee. This method produces a strong, espresso-like coffee with a rich, full-bodied flavor. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy a more intense, concentrated brew.
Espresso Machines: Espresso machines use high pressure to force hot water through finely-ground coffee, resulting in a concentrated shot with a complex flavor profile. Espresso is the base for many coffee drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos, and is ideal for those who enjoy a strong, bold coffee experience.
Water Quality and Hot Water Access
Water quality is a crucial factor in making great coffee, especially in an RV where water sources can vary. Here’s why it matters and how to ensure you’re using the best water possible:
Importance of Water Quality: The water you use makes up about 98% of your coffee, so its quality significantly affects the taste. Hard water with high mineral content can alter the flavor and cause scaling in your coffee maker, while water that’s too soft might not extract the coffee’s full flavor. Using filtered or bottled water can help you achieve a consistent and enjoyable taste.
We use four filters on the water in our RV, and this really makes a big difference for our coffee! Still, campground water can be bad, so don’t be afraid to use bottled water. There’s no need to waste good coffee with crappy water!
Using a Water Filter: If your RV is equipped with a water filtration system, it can help remove impurities that might negatively impact your coffee’s flavor. Portable water filters or pitchers can also be a good option if you’re using campground water or filling up from different sources.
Hot Water Source
Having reliable access to hot water is essential for making coffee in an RV. Here are some ways to ensure you always have hot water ready when you need it:
Electric Kettle: An electric kettle is a convenient option for quickly boiling water. It’s perfect for manual brewing methods like the French press or Aeropress. Just make sure your RV’s power system can handle the kettle’s wattage, especially if you’re using other appliances simultaneously.
Propane Stove: If you’re boondocking or off-grid, a propane stove is a great alternative for heating water. You can use it to boil water for your coffee or to operate stovetop coffee makers like the Moka pot. Propane is efficient and reliable, making it a versatile option for RV life.
Solar-Powered Kettle: For those committed to sustainable living, a solar-powered kettle can be a unique solution. While it may take longer to heat water compared to electric or propane options, it’s a great way to brew your coffee using renewable energy. Just be sure your solar setup is capable of handling the extra load.
These considerations will help you maintain consistent quality in your coffee, no matter where your RV adventures take you. By focusing on flavor, water quality, and reliable hot water access, you can enjoy a perfect cup of coffee every morning, even in the great outdoors.
Conclusion: The Best Coffee Maker for RV Life
Choosing the best RV coffee maker isn’t just about convenience—it’s about enhancing your entire travel experience. Whether you’re sipping a bold espresso on a crisp morning in the mountains or enjoying a smooth French press by the beach, the right coffee maker can make every moment more enjoyable.
Remember to consider your space constraints, power options, and personal coffee preferences when selecting your perfect brewer. From compact electric models to manual options that require no power, there’s a solution for every RVer’s needs. Don’t forget to account for water quality and the availability of hot water, ensuring that every cup you brew is as satisfying as the last.
Ultimately, the best coffee maker for RV life is the one that fits seamlessly into your routine, allowing you to enjoy your favorite brew no matter where the road takes you. So go ahead, pick your perfect coffee companion, and make every morning on the road a little brighter with that perfect cup of joe. Safe travels and happy brewing!
About Us
We are Mike and Sara, and our kids and dog are exploring the US while camping in our fifth wheel! Since the late 90s we have been exploring the great outdoors one hiking trail at a time. We introduced our kids to hiking while they were young and they love exploring new places. We call Kentucky home and we find ourselves exploring the state parks, national parks, and other wildlands in our area as often as we can!
Our RV camping journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic. Waking up close to the trails we love hiking was enough for us to get hooked on the camping lifestyle! Thanks for following our adventures!
