If you enjoy spending time in the backcountry and want to kick it up a notch, what could possibly might make it even better? We have the perfect idea! Why not start the day off with a hot cup of coffee! But how can you quickly and easily accomplish this basic morning routine when you're on a thru-hike or other backpacking adventure? Is it really necessary, and does it provide any benefit to you while your enjoying the great outdoors? Well, we think it's a great idea and here are some ideas on how and why you might want to consider treating yourself to a nice hot cup of java to start your day. Aside from it being a morning ritual (or habit) for many, an average 8oz cup of coffee contains 100 mg of caffeine, which can  give us a good boost of energy. This little boost might be sorely needed after a long day on the trail the day before, especially if you have a full day ahead of you. There are a number of options to get your daily coffee and caffeine fix on the trail all of which you can prepare on your Littlbug backpacking camp stove.

Instant Coffee

This is the easiest option for bringing coffee out on the trail. All you need to do is add hot water (heated on your ultralight Littlbug stove) to the instant coffee. Instant coffee typically comes in small packets, but there are other, more eco-friendly options, like instant coffee cubes. Easy to pack without taking up extra space in your pack and simple to make. Could it get any easier!

French Press

We know many people out there are true coffee connoisseurs and instant coffee might not cut it. You could consider a french press, but it does have some drawbacks. Using a french press can absolutely make a great tasting cup of coffee, however, it’s usually the heaviest and messiest option, which can make packing your backpack more difficult. If you’re not willing to sacrifice something else in your pack to make room for your french press, consider our Littlbug Junior wood burning camp stove, weighing in at only 5.1oz. Not only can it heat your water quickly, but it can free up some space with its pack friendly design. 

Drip Cones (with disposable filter)

Make a quality cup of your favorite coffee while out on the trail with a drip cone. You simply set the cone over your cup or mug, add the filter and your favorite ground coffee, then pour the hot water slowly into the cone. Seems pretty easy, but there is one downside to this method. You will need to pack out the paper filter (or burn it in your Littlbug Stove) you use to brew the coffee so as to have minimal impact on the environment.

Reusable Filter

This method is much more friendly to Leave-No-Trace hiking. No paper filters are necessary, so you have less to pack in and less to pack out. Simply clean out the filter after each use, rather than using a disposable filter each time. A great reusable filter to consider is this one by Ecoroots. Handmade in Colorado, from organic hemp and cotton, this reusable coffee filter is a great substitute for single-use paper filters both backpacking and in the comfort of your home.

One last item to consider is your coffee grounds. We emphasize Leave-No-Trace when enjoying the outdoors so we can continue to marvel at Mother Nature's beauty for many, many years (preferably centuries) to come. Coffee grounds are no exception. If you have leftover grounds from brewing coffee, simply bring a sealable bag to store them in until you can properly compost them or dispose of them in the trash.

No matter what coffee method you choose to use while hiking the backcountry, Littlbug Senior and Littlbug Junior stoves can help you get your coffee brewed in no time (3 to 6 minutes, depending on your stove). So here's to enjoying a glorious sunrise and sipping a fresh cup of coffee on your next outdoor backpacking, hiking, camping, biking, or canoeing adventure.