When you’re RVing, a good cup of coffee can make all the difference in starting your day right. But not all travel coffee makers are built for the unique challenges of brewing in an RV. You need a device that’s compact, durable, and easy to use in tight spaces, without sacrificing the quality of your brew.
Whether you’re looking for a high-end espresso machine that can withstand the rigors of the road, a lightweight pour-over brewer for your morning ritual or a versatile capsule machine for quick and easy cups, we’ve got you covered. Let’s compare the top 3 travel coffee makers to help you find the perfect addition to your RV kitchen.
Travel Coffee Maker Comparison Table
Here’s a head-to-head comparison of our top travel coffee maker picks based on price, material, durability, size, etc.
| Product | Wacaco Picopresso | AeroPress Coffee Maker – Clear | Outin Nano Portable Espresso Machine |
| Price | $129.90 | $34.99 | $149.99 |
| Image |  |  |  |
| Weight | 0.77 lbs / 350 grams | 0.513 lbs | 670 grams |
| Materials | Aluminum, stainless steel, PA66, PP, TPV, silicone | Tritan plastic | European Certified Materials |
| Durability | Robust build | Hardier build compared to predecessors, higher scratch resistance | Built with European Certified Materials, meets coffee brewing center standards |
| Dimensions | 4.17″ x 3.07″ x 2.8″ (106 mm x 78 mm x 71 mm) | Standard AeroPress is around 10.4 cm (height) x 7.6 cm (diameter) | 9.06″ x 2.87″ x 2.87″ (230 mm x 73 mm x 73 mm) |
| Pressure | Up to 18 bars | Sufficient pressure for quick coffee-making | 20 bar pressure pump |
| Capacity | 18 grams ground capacity, 80 ml (2.70 oz) water capacity | 250 ml (approximately 8.4 oz) | 80 ml water capacity, 50 ml recommended per brew |
| Returns and Warranty | 2-year warranty | One year warranty | Limited warranty |
1. Wacaco Picopresso Portable Espresso Machine: Our Top Choice for Espresso Enthusiasts
Price
- $129.90
Features
- Compact Design: The coffee maker comes with all parts nesting inside the unit.
- Sufficient Pressure: The hand pump in the coffee maker creates up to 18 bars of pressure.
- Naked Portafilter: The portafilter has a 52mm stainless steel basket, similar to commercial machines.
- Quality Accessories: Has a tamper with micro grooves, funnel, brush, distribution tool, scoop and protective case.
Pros
- High-Quality Espresso: Produces espresso comparable to commercial machines.
- Robust Build: Durable construction with high-quality materials.
- Precise Brewing: Allows for precise control over coffee grounds and brewing process.
Cons
- Temperature Management: According to some users, it can be tricky to manage the ideal temperature for brewing with this coffee maker.
- Multiple Pieces: Keeping track of several parts can be cumbersome.
- Precision Required: Needs precise measurement and tamping of coffee grounds for optimal results.
2. AeroPress Coffee Maker – Our Pick for Best Pour-Over Style Coffee Maker
Price
- $34.99
Features
- Tritan Plastic: Made from Tritan plastic, known for its durability and higher scratch resistance.
- Compact and Portable Design: The coffee maker is easy to pack for travel.
- Useful Accessories: Includes accessories like a scoop, stir stick and filters.
- 3in1 Technology: Patented 3in1 technology that combines immersion and aeration of the coffee beans.
Pros
- Versatile Brewing Options: Can make various types of coffee drinks.
- Durable and Portable: Ideal for travel and outdoor use due to its lightweight.
- Transparent Design: Enhances the brewing experience by allowing visibility.
Cons
- Potential Cosmetic Imperfections: The plastic joints may have cosmetic imperfections associated with the unique production process.
- Funnel Unnecessary: Some users see the funnel as an unnecessary additional cost.
3. Outin Nano Portable Espresso Machine: Our Choice for Capsule Convenience
Price
- $149.99
Features
- Battery-operated Machine: Portable and battery-operated, allowing for use on the go with a 7500 mAh battery.
- Easy Charging: USB-C charging, also supports 12V or 24V car chargers.
- Sufficient Pressure: 20 bar pressure pump that produces thick crema espresso.
- Compact Design: It weighs less than 700g.
Pros
- Portable and Lightweight: Easy to carry and use on the go.
- Fast Heating: Quickly heats water to the ideal temperature for espresso.
- Long Battery Life: Can brew multiple cups on a single charge.
- Dual Coffee Method: Supports both ground coffee and coffee capsules.
Cons
- Limited Water Capacity: Only 80 ml, which might not be sufficient for larger groups.
- Battery-Dependent: Requires frequent charging if used extensively.
How We Determined the Best Travel Coffee Makers for RVers
To find the best travel coffee makers for RVers, we considered several key factors:
- Portability: We looked for compact, lightweight devices that are easy to store and transport in an RV.
- Durability: We prioritized coffee makers built to withstand the rigors of travel, with high-quality materials and robust construction.
- Ease of Use: We sought out devices that are straightforward to operate in tight RV quarters, without overly complicated parts or processes.
- Cleaning: We favored coffee makers that are easy to clean and maintain on the go, with minimal small parts to keep track of.
Brew Up Your Adventure with the Right Travel Coffee Maker
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, one of top travel coffee makers is sure to keep you caffeinated on your RV adventures. The Wacaco Picopresso delivers cafe-quality espresso with its precise manual control, while the AeroPress Clear offers versatile brewing in a durable, compact package. And for those who prioritize convenience, the Outin Nano serves up rich espresso from both grounds and capsules at the touch of a button. For even more ways to elevate your RV travel experience, check out this guide on “7 Game-Changing Kitchen Accessories Every RVer Needs“.
