How to Make Camping Coffee Equipment

Surviving in the wilderness does not necessarily mean giving up your caffeine fix. Instead, you'll just need to come up with creative ways to get that java hot and delicious in the woods. There are several techniques that'll give you a great wake-up beverage -- though perhaps not up to the Starbucks or Peet's standard.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

How to Make Camping Coffee Equipment

Things You’ll Need:

Coffee grounds
Filters
Pot
Paper towel
Mug
French press
Spoon
Rubber band

Step 1

Pre-grind all coffee you plan to use while in the woods. The easiest method, of course, is to bring coffee bags or instant coffee. These need no preparation or tools, but you'll sacrifice flavor and strength. It's best to pre-grind the coffee in varying degrees of coarseness so you'll want to have several options available.

Step 2

Use the pot method. This also called "cowboy coffee." This method is nearly as easy as instant coffee. Boil your water in the pot (boiling over an open fire is more authentic) and then add the desired amount of coffee grinds. Let the coffee steep in the pot for at least five minutes. Then, bang your spoon (a heavy duty one is best for this task) against the side of the pot at least 15 to 20 times. This will settle the grounds to the bottom, allowing you to pour off the coffee. Be prepared to have some grounds in your mug -- this isn't fool-proof.

Step 3

Use a bandana as a filter. Lay the bandana over an empty pot. With a rubber band, secure the bandana to the pot leaving it concave inside the pot. You can then spoon the grounds into the center of the bandana and pour boiling water over the grounds. The bandana will filter out the grounds. This is one of the most effective methods. Bandanas can also be used to filter water (but not for microorganisms -- just twigs and weeds).

Step 4

Filter your coffee with paper towels. Remember that paper towels are not as strong as a bandana and you'll need to be careful when you exercise this option. Find two stones of equal size. Find about 6 to 10 sticks and lay them across the rocks in a lattice formation. Make sure the lattice is level once you've finished laying sticks. Prop up one of the rocks to get the set up level. Next, lay one sheet of paper towel across the latticework. Then, with a pot underneath, pour boiling water over the paper towel latticework.

Tips & Warnings

You can also buy a hiking french press if you choose not to make your own equipment.

Article Written By DB Jenkins

DB Jenkins is a professional freelance content provider. He has been running a successful freelance business for two years, and contributes regularly to many publications. His articles have appeared in "The Portland Alliance," "Portland Monthly Magazine," "in\ur Magazine," and The Tallahassee Democrat and Chronicle. He has a bachelor's degree in English from Clark University.

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