Hit The Road & Brew Up: 8 Best RV Coffee Makers For 2024

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RV Coffee Maker

Before you choose a coffee maker for your RV, there are several factors you need to consider:

• Size and Space: Space is at a premium in an RV, so you need to choose a coffee maker that fits your available space. Consider the size of the coffee maker and whether it will do in your RV's kitchen, will there be enough counter space to make it work?
• Power Source: Most RVs have limited power, so you must choose a coffee maker that uses a power source compatible with your RV. Some coffee makers require 110V outlets, while others can run on 12V or propane power.
• Brew Time: If you're in a hurry, you need a coffee maker to brew quickly. Look for machines with shorter brew times.
• Ease of Use and Cleaning: You want a coffee maker that's easy to use and clean, especially if you're on the go. Look for machines with straightforward controls and easy-to-clean parts.
• Type of Coffee Maker: Choose a coffee maker that suits your taste and brewing preferences. Do you prefer drip coffee, single-serve machines, French presses, or portable espresso makers?

Drip Coffee Makers for Your RV

Drip coffee makers are a classic and reliable option for making coffee in your RV. Here are some of the pros and cons of using a drip coffee maker in your RV:

Pros:

• Drip coffee makers are widely available and easy to use.
• They can brew a decent amount of coffee at once, making them a good group option.
• Drip coffee makers come in various sizes, so you can find one that fits your RV kitchen.
• They are generally affordable, with many models available for around $50.

Cons:

• Drip coffee makers require a power source, so you'll need to be plugged in or have a generator running to use them.
• They can be bulky and take up a fair amount of counter space.
• Drip coffee makers can be harder to clean than other coffee makers.

Recommended Drip Coffee Makers For Your RV

BLACK+DECKER 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker (CM1160B)

4.5 out of 5

This coffee maker is an excellent option if you're looking for a no-frills model that can brew a large amount of coffee. It has a 12-cup capacity, a programmable timer, and a removable filter basket for easy cleaning.

Pros:

• A no-frills coffee maker with a sizeable 12-cup capacity, great for bigger groups or families.
• The programmable feature allows you to set the coffee maker to start brewing at a specific time.
• The sneak-a-cup feature lets you pause the brewing process to pour a cup of coffee before it's finished.

Cons:

• The coffee only stays hot for a short time after brewing, so you may need to reheat it if you don't drink it immediately.
• Some users have reported that the carafe doesn't pour well and spills quickly.
• The water reservoir is not removable, making it difficult to fill and clean.

Cuisinart DCC-450BK 4-Cup Coffeemaker

4.3 out of 5

If you don't need to brew much coffee at a time, this compact 4-cup coffee maker is a good choice. It has a stainless steel carafe and a brew-pause feature that lets you pour a cup of coffee mid-brew.

Pros:

• This maker is compact and perfect for small spaces or traveling.
• Brew-pause feature lets you enjoy a cup of coffee before brewing has finished.
• It comes with a stainless steel carafe that keeps coffee hot for a long time.
• It has a 30-minute automatic shutoff and convenient ON indicator light.

Cons:

• Only brews 4 cups at a time, which may not be enough for larger groups
• No automatic timer, so coffee can't be pre-set to start brewing at a specific time
• No programmable features, such as brew strength or temperature control

Single-Serve Coffee Makers For Your RV

Single-serve coffee makers are an excellent option for those who want a quick and easy cup of coffee without brewing a whole pot. These machines use pods or capsules that come pre-filled with coffee grounds, making them very convenient and mess-free. Single-serve coffee makers also come in various sizes and shapes, so you can find one that fits your RV's space and style.

Pros:

• Quick and easy to use
• No need to measure or grind coffee beans
• Minimal clean-up required
• Can brew different types of coffee without cross-contamination

Cons:

• Expensive pods or capsules can add up in cost
• Environmental waste of coffee pods 
• It may not produce the same quality of coffee as a drip or French press method

Recommended Single-Serve Coffee Makers For Your RV

Keurig K-Mini Plus Single-Serve Coffee Maker

4.1 out of 5

This single-serve coffee maker is an excellent choice if you don't want to make a whole pot of coffee. It's compact and easy to store and works with any K-Cup pod.

Pros:

• Compact size perfect for small spaces, including RVs
• Brews coffee quickly
• Compatible with a wide variety of K-Cup pod flavors and brands
• Easy to use with simple button controls and a removable water reservoir
• The removable drip tray makes it easy to clean

Cons:

• It only brews one cup at a time, so it is not ideal for serving multiple people at once.
• Some users have reported issues with durability and longevity.
• Limited brewing options compared to other coffee makers, as it only works with K-Cup pods.

Nespresso Essenza Mini Espresso Machine

4.3 out of 5

The Nespresso Essenza Mini is an excellent choice for RVers who want a high-quality espresso experience without needing a large and expensive machine. It is only 4.3 inches wide and can brew up to 5 ounces of espresso at a time. The device heats up in 30 seconds and has a removable water tank for easy filling and cleaning. The Nespresso Essenza Mini is compatible with all Nespresso capsules.

Pros:

• Compact size
• Quick heat-up time
• Removable water tank for easy filling and cleaning
• Compatible with all Nespresso capsules
• Energy-saving mode

Cons:

• Limited to espresso only
• Capsules can be expensive

French Press Coffee Makers For Your RV

French press coffee makers are another popular option for coffee lovers on the road. They are compact and don't require electricity, making them perfect for RV trips. French press coffee makers use a plunger and a mesh filter to brew coffee. The process takes a little longer than other methods, but many people prefer the taste of French press coffee.

Pros:

• Compact and easy to store
• It doesn't require electricity
• Brews robust and flavorful coffee
• Easy to clean

Cons:

• They can be fragile and break easily
• Requires a separate kettle or pot to heat water
• The brewing process can take a little longer than other methods

Recommended French Press Coffee Makers For Your RV

Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker

4.7 out of 5

This French press coffee maker from Bodum is a classic and durable choice for RV trips. It comes in several sizes to choose the best fit for your needs. The stainless steel frame and heat-resistant borosilicate glass beaker make it a sturdy and reliable option.

Pros:

• Classic design
• Durable construction
• Available in several sizes
• Dishwasher safe

Cons:

• Glass can crack easily and break if dropped
• The handle can get hot during use

GSI Outdoors Ultralight French Press

4.5 out of 5

This French press from GSI Outdoors is an excellent option for those who want something lightweight and easy to pack. It's made from durable, heat-resistant silicone and nylon material and can hold up to 30 fl oz of coffee. Plus, the lid doubles as a filter, making it easy to remove any ground.

Pros:

• BPA Free, made from copolyester, and shatter resistant
• Durable and heat-resistant materials
• Can hold up to 30 fl oz of coffee
• Wrapped in a cloth sleeve with a handle made from water-resistant cloth

Cons:

• Not as rugged as stainless steel options
• Grounds can get lodged in the rubber seal quite easily

Portable Espresso Coffee Makers For Your RV

If you're a true coffee lover and enjoy espresso, consider a portable espresso maker for your RV. These devices are usually small, lightweight, and easy to use, making them perfect for those who want an authentic espresso experience on the go.

Pros:

• Makes high-quality espresso shots
• Portable and easy to use

Cons:

• It can be more expensive than other types of RV coffee makers.
• Not as convenient as having a countertop coffee maker
• Some models require manual pumping, which can be tiring, or if you're just lazy, like me.

Recommended Espresso Coffee Makers For Your RV

WACACO Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker

4.5 out of 5

This lightweight and compact espresso maker uses a hand-pump system to create up to 18 bars of pressure for a rich, flavorful shot of espresso. It's compatible with ground coffee and Nespresso pods, making it versatile and easy to use.

Pros:

• Portability: The Nanopresso is small and lightweight, making it easy to take with you wherever you go, whether on a camping trip or to the office.
• Ease of use: The device is easy to use, with a simple hand-operated pumping system that requires no electricity or batteries.
• Quality espresso: The Nanopresso produces high-quality espresso with a rich and smooth taste, thanks to its 18-bar pressure pump.

Cons:

• Small capacity: The device can only make a single shot of espresso at a time, which may not be enough for some people.
• Durability: While the Nanopresso is well-made, the seals may break down over time.

STARESSO Portable Espresso Maker

4.1 out of 5

The STARESSO espresso maker is a compact and lightweight option that requires manual pumping to create pressure. However, it produces delicious espresso shots comparable to those made with larger machines.

Pros:

• It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to take on the go or keep in your drawers.
• It will take up no counter space if you own a smaller RV.

Cons:

• Some reviews suggest the device can explode, causing the bottom to come off.

Can you use a coffee maker in a camper?

Absolutely! Yes, you can use a coffee maker in a camper, but it will depend on the type of coffee maker and the power source available in your camper.

If you have access to electricity, you can use an electric coffee maker just like you would at home. However, if you are camping in a remote area without electricity, you will need a coffee maker that can be powered by propane, battery, or manual power. Some examples of coffee makers that can be used in a camper include:

1. Propane coffee makers: These coffee makers are designed to be used with propane tanks and are ideal for campers who have access to a propane stove or other propane-powered appliances.
2. Battery-powered coffee makers: These coffee makers run on batteries and are ideal for campers who are staying in a location with limited or no access to electricity.
3. Manual coffee makers: These coffee makers do not require any electricity or propane and can be used by manually pouring hot water over the coffee grounds. Examples of manual coffee makers include French presses, pour-over coffee makers, and AeroPress.

It's important to note that some coffee makers may be too large or heavy for use in a camper, so it's important to consider the size and weight of the coffee maker before purchasing it for use in your camper. Additionally, be sure to follow any safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure safe and proper use of the coffee maker in your camper. 

What is the best way to make coffee in an RV?

There are several ways to make coffee in an RV, and the best method will depend on your preferences, available resources, and the space in your RV. Here are some popular methods:

1. Drip Coffee Maker: If you have access to electricity, a drip coffee maker is a simple and convenient way to make coffee in your RV. Fill the coffee maker with water and grounds, turn it on, and let it do its job. Some RVs may even come with built-in drip coffee makers. Read our article on the water-to-coffee ratio to learn more.
2. French Press: A French press is an excellent option for RVers who prefer a more decadent, full-bodied coffee. Simply boil water on the stove, add coffee grounds to the French press, pour in hot water, and let it steep for a few minutes before pressing the plunger down. Read our article comparing French Press and Pour Over to know more.
3. Pour-Over Coffee Maker: Pour-over coffee makers are a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts for their ability to produce a high-quality cup of coffee with minimal equipment. Simply place the pour-over coffee maker on top of your coffee mug, add a filter and coffee grounds, and slowly pour hot water over the grounds. Read our article comparing French Press and Pour Over to know more.
4. AeroPress: AeroPress is a compact, portable coffee maker perfect for RVers with limited space. Simply add coffee grounds and hot water to the AeroPress, let it steep for a few minutes, and then press down the plunger to extract the coffee. Read our article on the best Aeropress recipe here.
5. Instant Coffee: For the ultimate in convenience, instant coffee is a quick and easy way to get your caffeine fix while on the road. Simply add hot water to a packet of instant coffee and stir. Learn more about coffee tea bags here. Ultimately, the best way to make coffee in an RV will depend on your preferences, available resources, and the space available in your RV. Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you.

Conclusion: What is the best coffee maker for an RV?

Choosing the right coffee maker for your RV depends on several factors, including size, power source, brew time, ease of use, and type of coffee maker. Drip coffee makers, single-serve coffee makers, French press coffee makers, and portable espresso makers are all great options for RV travelers.

When selecting a coffee maker, consider the size of your RV and the space available for storage. You'll also think about the power source open to you and how long your coffee maker will take to brew.

For coffee makers, you're not using them all the time, and a cheaper, no mess, no frills approach will always be best. For that reason, we choose the BLACK+DECKER 5-Cup Coffeemaker.