5 Best Coffee Grinders for Camping in 2024

Picture this: my first real camping trip. I had everything packed—the tent, sleeping bag, a little camp stove, and even some fresh coffee beans I was excited to brew.

The one thing I didn’t think through? A decent coffee grinder. I brought along a cheap, clunky one I’d picked up at a yard sale, thinking, “It’ll do the job.” Oh boy, was I wrong!

That first morning, I sat there cranking endlessly while the sun was rising, but the beans just wouldn’t break down. Half of them flew out, and the ones that didn’t were so uneven, I might as well have brewed them whole.

Instead of a calm, coffee-filled morning, I ended up with a gritty, arm-cramping mess. Lesson learned: a good grinder is non-negotiable for camping.

That’s why I put together this guide to the best coffee grinders for camping—ones that are portable, durable, and easy to use. By the end, you’ll know exactly which one to pick. So let’s start grinding!

5 Top Coffee Grinders For Camping

So let’s take a look at the top grinders you can bring to your next camping trip. I’ve tested these grinders and this is what I’ve got to say:

This little guy is known for its compact and lightweight design, making it a top choice for backpackers and travelers. I mean, when you’re already lugging around a tent, sleeping bag, and all that other camping gear, every ounce matters, right?

The Porlex Mini, at just under 250 grams, is built to fit perfectly in your hand or, interestingly enough, inside an AeroPress for a super portable setup.

The stainless steel body gives it a rugged feel, and the ceramic burrs ensure durability. If you’re into coffee like I am, you know that ceramic burrs are a big deal—they won’t rust, they don’t overheat, and they give you a more consistent grind than your typical steel blades.

Plus, they’re easier to clean. For campers, having a piece of gear that can withstand the elements and still deliver quality coffee is essential, and the Porlex Mini does just that.

The adjustable ceramic burrs handle anything from coarse French press to fine espresso grinds. Just turn the wheel at the base to switch settings—perfect for a smooth morning brew or a bold shot for the trail.

Bottom Line

The Porlex Mini is a solid, budget-friendly pick for outdoor enthusiasts needing a durable, portable grinder. It’s compact enough for solo trips but for brewing more coffee, consider the larger Porlex Tall.

I love the ultra-lightweight design and rugged stainless steel body. It’s easy to toss in your backpack without taking up much room or adding unnecessary weight.

Despite its budget-friendly price, it feels sturdy enough to handle the occasional knock or drop—perfect for rougher outdoor conditions.

One thing I love about this grinder is its built-in adjustable grind selector. With 18 different click settings, you can fine-tune the grind size depending on what brewing method you’re using.

Whether you want a coarser grind for a French press or a finer one for an AeroPress, you can dial it in pretty easily. However, keep in mind that it’s not meant for ultra-precise adjustments, so espresso lovers might not find it ideal.

Bottom Line

Overall, the JavaPresse is a solid, budget-friendly grinder that’s perfect for solo campers or those just looking for a reliable, portable option. Just be prepared to put in a bit of elbow grease if you’re making coffee for a group!

The Hario Skerton Pro is built for campers who want durability and functionality in one solid package. It has a shatter-resistant glass design that’s surprisingly sturdy—perfect for the unpredictable conditions of the outdoors.

Plus, the ergonomic handle is a lifesaver when it comes to hand-crank grinding. Even after a long day of hiking, you won’t be struggling to grind those beans in the morning.

The wide range of grind settings on the Skerton Pro is a huge advantage. It uses a stepless adjustment dial, which can be a bit fiddly. But it allows you to get a consistent grind for different brewing methods, whether you’re in the mood for a French press or a finer grind for a pour-over.

You can switch between settings by adjusting a simple screw under the burrs, but I’d recommend finding a grind that works and sticking to it.

Bottom Line

Overall, the Hario Skerton Pro is a reliable grinder that’s best suited for campers who prioritize grind consistency and don’t mind a bit of extra weight in exchange for high capacity and durability. Perfect for group brewing on a camping trip or for those who love a precise morning coffee ritual in the great outdoors.

It’s rugged, compact, and designed to withstand rough conditions—pretty much the ideal gear for a camping trip. One of my favorite features is its carabiner handle that clips onto your backpack for easy carrying.

Plus, it has a unique design that looks more like a high-end flashlight than a coffee grinder. You get that adventure-ready vibe.

What sets this grinder apart is its precision stainless steel burrs, which deliver a consistent grind every time. Whether you’re in the mood for a coarse French press brew or a finer grind for a pour-over, the VSSL Java has you covered.

The adjustable settings are easy to use and labeled clearly, so you won’t be stuck guessing which one works best. Just turn the dial and get grinding!

Bottom Line

Overall, the VSSL Java Hand Grinder is perfect for campers who want a high-quality, reliable grinder that’s built to last. It’s a bit pricey, but with its durability and thoughtful design, it’s a solid addition to any outdoor coffee lover’s gear setup.

The Timemore Chestnut C2 is the perfect travel companion for coffee lovers who refuse to compromise on quality, even in the middle of the woods.

It’s compact and lightweight, weighing only about a pound and standing just 7 inches tall. You can slip it into any camping bag without adding bulk. I always appreciate a gear item that’s small but powerful, and that’s exactly what you get with the C2.

What makes it stand out is its precision stainless steel burrs, which grind beans quickly and consistently, thanks to the dual ball-bearing crank system.

You can easily adjust the grind using its 36 settings, giving you a range that works for a French press, AeroPress, or pour-over. And it’s fast—this little guy can grind 30 grams of coffee in under 30 seconds! That’s a big deal when you’re trying to get your caffeine fix before the sun’s even fully up.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Timemore Chestnut C2 is a fantastic pick for those who want a reliable, high-quality grinder that’s easy to carry and simple to use. If you’re serious about brewing the best coffee while camping, this grinder is worth the investment!

How to Choose the Best Coffee Grinder for Camping?

I’ve tried a few different models over the years, and let me tell you, nothing’s worse than packing a heavy, clunky grinder into your backpack only to have it break mid-trip. So, here’s what I’ve learned to look for:

Portability

First off, it has to be lightweight and compact. I’d recommend sticking to grinders under a pound and with a slim design, so it won’t bulk up your bag. Some models, like the Porlex Mini, even fit inside an AeroPress, making them super space-efficient.

Durability

You need a grinder that’s going to survive rough outdoor conditions. Stainless steel or reinforced plastics are your best bet—they’ll hold up better against drops and won’t rust if it rains. I suggest avoiding glass parts, though; one tumble off a rock and you’re left with a mess of shards.

Grind Settings

Whether you like a fine espresso grind or a coarse French press, having a range of grind settings is crucial. So look for models with adjustable burrs—usually a dial or click system under the burrs. The more settings, the better flexibility you have for different brew methods.

Ease of Cleaning

Out in the wilderness, a complicated design means more hassle. You want a grinder that can be taken apart and cleaned without needing special tools. Trust me, there’s no joy in losing tiny screws in the dirt!

Price

Lastly, find a balance between cost and quality. While you don’t want to overspend, cheap grinders often end up costing more in the long run if they break or don’t perform well.

You should expect to pay $40 to $80 for a reliable manual grinder that’ll last through many camping seasons.

Note: Think about what matters most for your style of brewing outdoors. Whether it’s portability or performance, remember these tips to avoid packing regrets!

Last Thoughts

If you’ve tried any of these grinders or have a go-to favorite, I’d love to hear about your experiences. So drop your thoughts or any questions in the comments below—your input could help fellow coffee-loving campers find their perfect match!