Best Camping Percolators in 2022 (Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)

More than ever, many of us are trying to find an escape this year from our day-to-day lives. Camping is one of the most budget-friendly, and safest ways to travel in the current climate, and so more people than ever are enjoying spending time in the great outdoors. Camping gives you the chance to escape into nature for a few days, unplug from technology and appreciate the beautiful great outdoors.

However, if you are planning to go camping regularly, you’ll want to take the time and money to invest in some good gear. One item that is pretty much essential to a high percentage of the population nowadays is coffee. After a cold night in your tent, there’s nothing you’ll want more than a warm, high-quality cup of coffee to start the day. That’s where camping percolators come in handy!

Today we’re going to be sharing with you our guide to the best camping percolators, as well as discussing what to look for when purchasing one.

Best Camping Percolators for 2022

1) Cook N Home 8-Cup Stainless Steel Stovetop Coffee Percolator Pot

Made of mirror and polished stainless steel, this is one of the highest-rated percolators out there for camping. Holding up to 8 cups, it’s the perfect size for any campers, but not too big for carrying in your bag. It works on all stovetops and retains heat. This is a great option to invest in for your next adventure and will last for many years to come even when used regularly on camping or outdoor adventures.

Design

This model features a one-piece construct, unlike most on the market which feature two pieces in the bottom. This helps to greatly reduce the chance of leaks. It’s made of mirror polished stainless steel, making it a stylish piece to add to your collection. Featuring a tight seal lid with a clear plastic knob, you are able to view your coffee as it’s brewing, to ensure it’s made to your satisfaction. The handle is comfortable to use and stays cool even when over high heat. It can be used to make coffee, tea or boil water, and the spout is drip-free. The percolator’s dimensions are 5 x 8 x 8 inches.

Durability

Made from stainless steel, this product will last you for many years even with regular use. It’s dishwasher safe and fully immersible. It’s able to retain heat well, and the stainless steel permanent filter basket can be easily removed for cleaning and reuse.

Pros

• A good size for campers, brewing up to 8 cups at a time
• One-piece construct reduces the chance of leaks
• Dishwasher safe

Cons

• Some people prefer a glass knob as opposed to plastic that’s used in this model

2) GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Percolator

Available in four different sizes, this is one of the few coffee pots that gives you the option of how many cups you need. Coming in 3, 6, 9 or 12 cups, this coffee percolator is perfect for individuals with the smaller size, or groups with the 12-cup. You can brew coffee to your perfect strength with the PercView clear knob, which lets you see the strength of your brew.

Design

Built from Glacier Stainless steel, this percolator offers a classic silver design with a black handle. It weighs only 0.80 pounds, yet is sturdy and hardwearing. To make your coffee, just add your ground coffee to the filter basket, and put the filled percolator on your stove. The heat-resistant silicone handle will stay cool to the touch even when your stove is on full heat.

Durability

It’s constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, with the PercView dome on top. Resistant to corrosion, it can withstand impact and rough handling, so is the perfect choice for carrying around in a packed backpack. GSI have spent over 30 years constructing quality products, and so they offer a lifetime promise with all purchases. The original owner is guaranteed against manufacturing defects for the lifetime of your Glacier percolator.

Pros:

• Comes with a Lifetime guarantee
• Available in four different sizes – 3, 6, 9 or 12 cups. Perfect for individuals or groups.
• PercView clear knob helps you know how strong your brew is

Cons:

• Holes in the filter can be too large for some ground coffee. Ensure you use coarsely ground coffee.

3) Coleman Stainless Steel Percolator

Coleman have been around for more than 100 years, started by a young man named W.C. Coleman, who manufactured lanterns in Wichita, Kansas. All these years later, they continue to produce high-quality products which aim to make spending time outdoors a pleasure. This camping percolator is perfect for larger groups or families and can brew up to 12 cups of coffee on your camping stove or grill. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s a high-quality product that is designed to last.

Design

The percolator’s dimensions are 6.42 x 8.58 x 9.49 inches and it weighs just 2.2 pounds. It has a classic design and is constructed using stainless steel. It brews up to 12 cups in one go, so it has a large capacity. The percolator includes a replaceable glass knob on the top, and it includes a base, tube, basket and basket lid.

Durability

The stainless steel material it’s made from resists corrosion and can be wiped down easily after each use. It’s designed for regular outdoor use, so it’s durable and lightweight. The side handle allows for safe and comfortable pouring and is extremely robust.

Pros

• Hardwearing and lightweight – perfect for regular campers and backpackers
• Can brew up to 12 cups at one time
• Resists corrosion and it’s very easy to clean after each use

Cons

• One of the more expensive models on the market
• If you are traveling solo or as a small group, this is probably much larger than you need to carry around

4) Coletti Bozeman Coffee Pot

Named after the city of Bozeman, this coffee pot is constructed from 18/8 stainless steel. This stovetop percolator extracts a fuller, richer flavor, so you will be left with the perfect cup of coffee. It’s a 9-cup percolator, which you can use to experience the nostalgia of cooking over a stove. As a veteran-owned small business, Coletti gives all of its profits to charity.

Design

Designed without any aluminium or plastic, this stylish coffee pot features a glass cover knob and handle. It’s a nostalgic piece with a timeless design. With its stylish design, it wouldn’t even look out of place in your kitchen!

Durability

Made from 18/8 stainless steel, this percolator is designed to withstand even the harshest of weather conditions. It’s dishwasher safe, and the glass top is heat-tempered.

Pros

• Constructed for use in all elements out of 18/8 stainless steel
• Filters included with the device, although not essential for use
• Coletti’s profits all go to charity

Cons

• Many users find they have to use filters
• Wooden handle will wear out or get marked over time

5) Stanley Camp Percolator w/Silicone Cool Grip

This stainless-steel percolator will brew up to six cups of fresh coffee and is the perfect addition to any campsite. With a new, improved design from Stanley, this easy to clean model is lightweight and easy to carry when hiking and camping.

Design

The product has a sleek design and weighs only 1 pound. At 8.5 inches in height, it’s a good size to brew coffee for all the family but still won’t take up too much space in your backpack. Made from stainless-steel, the interior stainless-steel basket keeps your coffee grounds fresh. The device is extremely easy to clean, so you won’t have to waste time on your next trip bringing bulky cleaning supplies.

Durability

While this model is very lightweight, stainless-steel means it’s extremely durable, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. It’s 100% dishwasher safe, so after returning home from your trip, you can give it a thorough clean. The silicone handle maintains a safe temperature, so you don’t have to worry about burning yourself over the stovetop. Stanley products come with a lifetime warranty, and they are built to last for life. Stanley has been around since 1913, so you know you are in good hands when purchasing products from them.

Pros

• Extremely durable model made with stainless steel
• Stanley products all come with a lifetime warranty
• Silicone handle ensures you won’t get burnt

Cons

• Lightweight design means it can sometimes topple over if not balanced correctly
• Some users report that the hinge is not that strong on the lid

6) GSI Outdoors  Percolator Coffee Pot

This 8-cup percolator will ensure that wherever you are, you’ll always have your caffeine needs met! Perfect for use at a campsite, or in a cabin or RV, it has a sturdy structure and a classic finish.

Design

This enamelware percolator is built from heavy-gauge steel and has a speckled finish that sets it apart from other models. The three-ply construction means the device maximizes heat distribution for even cooking. Through the resin cap you can watch your coffee brewing with this device.

Durability

Every piece has been kiln-hardened twice at 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it will withstand scratches and chipping. The heavy-gauge steel means it’s very resistant to dents and damage. GSI Outdoors have spent over 30 years building quality products, and offer a lifetime promise. The original owner of the product will have a warranty against defects for the lifetime of the product.

Pros:

• Resin cap means you can watch your coffee brewing
• Sturdy design with a unique speckled finish
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• Green color may not be to everyone’s tastes
• 8-cup size may be larger than you need for carrying

7) Eurolux Percolator Coffee Maker Pot – 9 Cups

Enjoy the perfect cup of coffee each morning on your next camping trip with the Eurolux Percolator. This product has been designed to brew coffee with a richer, fuller flavor, to delight everyone you are traveling with. It’s an affordable model that allows you to enjoy a little luxury every morning when you’re camping. It would make the perfect gift for any camper who loves coffee. With this percolator, you won’t risk putting toxic chemicals in your body, as it’s made with 100% Teflon-free and BPA-free stainless steel. It comes with step by step instructions, so it is a great choice for anyone using a percolator for the first time. It’s quick to use, brewing approximately 1 cup per minute.

Design

This percolator has a stylish yet practical design and can be used every day. It features a comfortable wooden handle with solid brass rivets. This means that gripping and pouring from your percolator is safe and easy. It’s made from solid stainless steel, so it’s a great camping option. Included with the coffee pot is a filter basket. Filters are included in your purchase, however, are not necessary for this model. If you are using finely ground coffee, they are a great option to stop coffee falling through the percolator’s basket.

Durability

Made with high-quality stainless steel, this is an extremely durable and good quality option. Made without Teflon or BPA, you can also be reassured that you aren’t putting anything questionable into your body when using it. The shiny finish won’t dull over time, making it an item that will look great at home or while camping. It’s dishwasher safe and easy to clean by hand.

Pros

• Teflon and BPA free – fully non-toxic and safer for your health
• Features a comfortable wooden handle with solid brass rivets for grip
• Brews approximately one cup a minute

Cons

• If you are using finely ground coffee, filters are recommended

8) Farberware Yosemite 12-Cup Coffee Percolator

If you are worried about creating a mess while making your morning coffee, this is the perfect choice for you. This stovetop coffee percolator features a permanent percolator filter basket, so you don’t have to use messy coffee filters. Its sleek and traditional look will be a stylish addition to your camping gear.

Design

Designed to hold between four and twelve cups, this percolator is polished to a mirror finish. The clear glass knob lets you know when percolating begins. It has a sleek yet traditional look and would fit well inside your kitchen if ever needed. The height of the device is 10.83 inches.

Durability

Farberware has been around for over 100 years, so you know you are in good hands with this brand. The percolator is dishwasher safe and combines modern technology with the quality and style Farberware have used for years. It comes with a lifetime guarantee, so you are in safe hands purchasing from this brand.

Pros

• Stylish design that can hold up to 12 cups
• Glass clear knob lets you know when percolating begins
• Features a permanent percolator filter

Cons

• Tall design at 10.83 inches
• 12 cup size may be more than needed for carrying around with your gear

9) Stansport Enamel Percolator Mugs

If you are looking for the perfect gift for adventurous friends or family members in your life, this is a great option. This set comes with an 8 cup coffee percolator, and four 12 oz mugs to match. With a kiln-hardened blue enamel finish, it will resist chips and scratches, and so can be used for camping or in recreational vehicles. It will make you a perfect cup of traditional coffee every morning of your trip.

Design

This is a unique set featuring an 8 cup coffee percolator and four 12 oz mugs. It comes in a bold blue color, with a kiln-hardened enamel finish. There are stainless steel rims on all the pieces, which add a nice touch to the design. The enameled side handle and cool-touch bail make pouring from the percolator both safe and easy. This percolator allows you to have complete control over brewing your coffee, and you can tailor your coffee-water ratio and brewing time to suit your tastes. For best results, use a light or medium roast coffee with course grounds.

Durability

The kiln-hardened enamel finish will help prevent chips and scratches, and the blue design will also disguise any issues well. The stainless steel cups and percolator are very functional and durable, and can easily be thrown into a backpack without any damage.

Pros

• A lovely set of cups with the percolator – makes for a great gift
• Enamel finish prevents chips and scratches
• Good size percolator

Cons

• Only comes in the blue color
• You may not need the mugs, so could be an unnecessary expense for you

10) Primula Aluminum Stove Top Percolator

If you are looking for a budget option on the market, look no further than the Primula 9-Cup stovetop percolator. It’s perfect for making an old-fashioned cup of coffee around a campfire. It will give you the perfect flavorful cup of coffee, to start off your morning in style. Helping you to save money on your next trip, instead of buying expensive takeaway coffee, you’ll be able to make the perfect cup on your stove in minutes. The percolator is super easy to clean with lemon juice and warm water, so it’s a hassle-free device to take away with you on trips.

Design

Measuring 8.15 x 5.2 x 8.23 inches and weighing 12 ounces, this percolator is compact and easy to use. It delivers nine cups of coffee, so it’s perfect when traveling as a family or group. To use, you fill the lower chamber with water and then fill the filter with ground coffee, before placing it on the stovetop. The design is classic and simple, and the percolator is made from aluminum. This provides thorough heat distribution, which allows for enhanced flavor and aroma. It comes with a matching lid, lipped spout and a black plastic handle that will stay cool even when on the stove.

Durability

This is the perfect option for camping and travel as it’s durable and sturdy. On the top, you will find a plastic indicator. While many other designs feature glass, the plastic doesn’t get as hot and is less likely to break on a hard surface. Make sure you take the time to learn how to use the device before first testing it to have the best results.

Pros

• One of the lowest-priced options on the market
• Easy to clean and maintain the device
• Plastic indicator on top is durable and won’t get too hot

Cons

• Heavier than other options on the market

11) Piero Lorenzo 5-Cup Percolator

This attractive percolator is a great option for solo travelers or couples who are going camping. Constructed out of durable aluminum, it’s ideal for use on the road or at home. It’s super easy to clean and take care of, and can easily be cleaned with a mild cleanser after use to keep it in top condition for years. It comes with a limited one-year warranty.

Design

Featuring folding wire handles, this percolator contains a removable pump with tube assembly and a basket. Its robust construction means you can enjoy it for years to come. The wire handles fold in for compact storage, yet still stay cool to touch when the coffee is brewing. It’s easy to clean out after use and can be washed with a mild detergent. To keep the exterior in top condition, wipe the outside regularly to remove soot residue. It weighs just 8 ounces and measures 6.5 x 5.25 x 5 inches.

Durability

The aluminum design is rustproof and is designed to last for many years. It comes with a 1-year guarantee and performs to the highest standard. It’s a durable option which is rust and dent resistant.

Pros

• Great option for singles or couples
• Lightweight and small size
• Comes with a one-year limited warranty

Cons

• A basic design, without any special features or benefits

12) Coghlan’s 12-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Pot Silver

Coghlan’s are known for their fun, simple outdoor products which help people enjoy new experiences. This coffee pot is ideal for camping trips and can make 12 cups, so it is a great option for large families and groups. For a larger model, it’s very lightweight, and so it will be no hassle to carry around with your backpack and gear. All of their pots are FDA approved and tested to ensure their safety and compliance.

Design

This percolator features a simple yet functional design and is made from stainless steel. Its dimensions are 6 x 9.5 x 8.5 inches, and it weighs just 1.8 pounds. It features a two-piece basket percolator system, with a polycarbonate percolator top. The hinged lid features a stay cool permawood handle, so you won’t have to be concerned about injury while pouring from this pot.

Durability

This model is made from stainless steel and so is incredibly durable. It’s a great size model for carrying around, and won’t get scratched or damaged easily.

Pros

• Great for large groups looking for many cups to be brewed at once
• FDA approved
• Lightweight

Cons

• Top is made from polycarbonate – many consumers prefer glass knobs
• The lid can have quite sharp edges

13) Coleman 9 Cup Coffee Percolator

The perfect size for brewing coffee for your whole camp or family, the Coleman 9 Cup Coffee Percolator is another cheaper option on the market. This lightweight model includes the base, tube, basket and basket lid when you purchase it. The two handles (one on top, one on the side) make pouring safe and easy. It’s an easy to clean model, and can simply be wiped down after use.

Design

This product has a basic yet functional design and it weighs just 1.6 ounces, meaning it’s the perfect lightweight model for carrying in your backpack when camping. The two handles allow you to hold it in a way you feel most secure, and make pouring easy and stable.

Durability

Made from aluminum, this percolator is rust-resistant and hardwearing. The basic, functional design means it’s sturdy enough to transport around, and won’t get dented or damaged.

Pros

• Low price
• Rust-resistant aluminum
• Weighs just 1.6 ounces
• Has two handles, which makes pouring safer and easier

Cons

• Very basic design means it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as other options

14) Stansport Aluminum Percolator Coffee Pot

Stansport know that there’s nothing like waking up to the smell and taste of a great cup of coffee on a camping trip. Whether you are camping, canoeing or backpacking, this is a great option for active travelers. This classic percolator makes a traditional cup of coffee, brewing a stronger cup than drip machines. For best results, it’s recommended to use this model with coarsely ground coffee that’s a light or medium roast.

Design

The side handle and cool touch bail on this percolator make pouring safe and easy and allow you to have complete control over the device. The brewing procedure is completely in your hands with this model, as you can adjust your coffee-water ratio and time spent percolating to brew a cup of coffee to your taste. This model comes in two different options – 9 cups or the larger 20 cup size. The 9 cup model will make 1.5 L/ 51oz of coffee and is 8.2 x 5.9 x 5.9 inches in size.

Durability

Made from lightweight aluminum, this percolator heats up quickly yet is lightweight for traveling. It’s designed for use in the great outdoors, and so is able to withstand the elements well and will last for many years. It’s easy to wipe down after each use and withstands scratches and dents well.

Pros

• Comes in two sizes – the larger size is great for massive groups
• Designed for use in all elements
• Side handle and cool touch bail make it a safe device to use

Cons

• If you are traveling solo or as a couple, it’s probably much bigger than you would need

15) Texsport Aluminum 20 Cup Percolator Coffee Maker

If you are traveling with a large group or family party, this is a great 20-cup option. Texsport’s Aluminum 20 Cup percolator is a low-cost option that will allow you to brew coffee for your whole group in one go. With over 70 years of experience providing outdoors and camping equipment, Texsport want to help you get outside and create your own unique memories.

Design

This percolator is 10.6 x 7.1 x 7.1 inches in size, weighing 20 ounces. The percolator stem and basket are included, and it features anodized top and side handles. It’s a quick heating device, meaning you’ll get your coffee brewed in no time. Made from aluminum, it has an attractive yet simple design. It has an easy pour spout, so you won’t have to be concerned about spillages.

Durability

With its large size and aluminum structure, this product is designed to last. It’s the perfect option for scout groups or anyone who camps regularly with many people. It’s resistant to scratches and incredibly durable. You can easily wipe it down after each use to keep it in the best condition.

Pros

• For large groups, it’s a great value option
• Quick heating
• Easy pour spout reduces spillages

Cons

• Heavier weight (20oz) than many other options on the market
• Large size – not suitable for small families or couples

Things to Consider when Buying a Camping Percolator

Size

Compare sizes when you are deciding between the models listed below. If you travel alone, or in a small group, you’ll want to adjust your purchase based on how many cups of coffee you’ll want to make at a time. However, make sure you don’t buy too large a model, or it will be a nightmare to carry around in your backpack with the rest of your camping gear.

Types of Percolators

The differences between percolators are based on the mechanism in the device.

1) Pressure Type Percolator

Pressure type percolators use boiling water to create pressure for steam to push the water through the coffee beans. The mixture then moves into a separate part of the device, which you’ll then pour out. These models have three different sections; the lower for the water, middle section for the beans and the top section will store your finished coffee.

2) Gravity Type Percolator

This type of percolator has a vertical tube through the center of the device. When the water rises inside the tube, it mixes with the coffee. This continues in a cycle to eventually produce your full cup of coffee.

Energy options

There are three major percolator types, which all work using different sources of heat or electricity.

1) Microwave

These are not any use for camping, as you need a microwave to use them, but are a great choice for a home percolator.

2) Stove-top

This is the type we will be looking at in further detail today with the models listed below. These use the heat from the flames of the stove to heat the percolator and create your coffee. If you are traveling with a stove on your camping trips, it will be the perfect addition to your camping gear to create a good cup of coffee every morning.

3) Electric

Electric percolators are a great choice for home or office use. They use electricity or could even have their own heating system. The great thing about these types of percolators is that they switch off automatically when your cup is brewed so that you don’t risk over-brewing your coffee.

What are the benefits and uses of a camping percolator?

Percolators are a fantastic tool for creating a quick, good-quality cup of coffee on camping or hiking trips. If you are used to having poor quality, instant coffee on your trips, you’ll be so impressed with the improvement to your coffee when you start using a percolator.

They are easy to use and setup, and if you are traveling with a camping stove, you won’t need to add anything else to your gear to use it. The aroma of coffee is also enticing to the senses, and the perfect smell for you and your family to wake up to each morning on your next trip.

By choosing a small, lightweight model, you’ll have a great portable tool that won’t take up much extra weight or space in your backpack. If for some reason you have an issue with your coffee maker at home, you can actually use this on the stove at home too.

It’s a fantastic tool for your next trip. So many people miss their morning coffee when camping, and it can really set your day off on a bad foot. So next time you’re going away, purchase one of these in advance and you’ll be ready to start off every day like usual with a good, warming cup of coffee.

Camping Percolator FAQs

What is a camping percolator?

Camping percolators are specifically designed to be used while camping or in the outdoors and require no electricity to function. They have been popular since the late 1800s, and are often seen in pictures of cowboys around campfires. Camping models are made to be lighter and smaller than other options, to make them easier to transport when camping or backpacking. They are very durable and should last for years after their first use. Many come with handles that are heat-resistant, and so they are a safe and easy to use option for campers.

The pots have a simple design and are very easy to use. The different ingredients are contained within separate chambers, with water at the bottom and your ground coffee at the top. There is also a vertical tube that will run from the bottom to the top of the device. When you are using one it will take about 10-15 minutes to make your perfect cup of coffee.

What are the advantages of a camping percolator?

Percolators are pretty easy to use once you’ve set them up. When the water boils, this enables it to come out of the vertical tube and extract the flavor from your ground coffee. This cycle repeats a few times, although make sure you don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with very strong or bitter coffee.

Most camping percolators on the market will look very similar, but there are a few things that will differentiate your various options.

How the percolator works

If you are looking for a camping model, you need to ensure it works over a fire, not with electricity. Ones that require electricity are perfect for everyday use at home or in offices, but are useless for camping.