Choosing the Best Travel Coffee Mug

When it comes to getting caffeinated on the go, a travel coffee mug is a kitchen staple. Having one you love can save you money from having to stop for coffee or tea at coffee shops, and it can also help reduce the amount of plastic and paper cup waste that’s out there. Choosing the best travel mug is all about finding one that fits your lifestyle needs, whether you’re heading out on a hike or hustling on a commute. We researched and tested a bunch to find the best, and we narrowed down our picks below to some of the most durable, stylish and versatile options out there.

During testing, our experts found that a vacuum-insulated mug is better at keeping your beverage hot or cold for hours than a non-insulated option. They’re typically made of stainless steel, and some are double-wall designs to prevent condensation or lukewarm drinks. You’ll also want to decide whether you’re planning to drink hot or iced, and consider what lid type will work best for you. Some mugs have flip-top lids, while others feature auto-sealing mechanisms. Some mugs are also microwave-safe, which is helpful if you want to heat up or chill your drink on the go.

While the most common material for travel mugs is stainless steel, your options can extend to other materials, including glass, ceramic and silicone. The type of material you choose can affect a number of factors, including price, how well it retains heat or coolness and its ease of cleaning.

In terms of lid style, we found that a push button or trigger-action lid is easiest to open and close with one hand, which can be helpful if you’re carrying a heavy bag or balancing a toddler on your back. Some travel mugs have a hinged lid that requires two hands to remove, which can be inconvenient if you’re traveling with young kids. We prefer a tight seal that doesn’t leak when closed, and we liked the way the Thermos DeltaLight Insulated Mug sealed shut with a solid click. It also ranked highly in our design category for its cupholder-friendly, spill-resistant topper and sealable spout, though it isn’t as leakproof as some other mugs in this review.

For travelers who need a rugged mug that can handle the elements, we recommend the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug. It’s a sturdy, sturdy option that holds a good amount of liquid and has volumetric markings so you can add exact measurements to your coffee or tea. It’s a bit heavier than some other models on this list, but it’s still a great choice for hiking or camping trips and can be secured in a backpack with the handle hooked to the top of your pack.

If you’re looking for a less expensive insulated option, the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle is a great choice. It’s also double-wall insulated and will keep your drink hot or cold for up to nine hours, but it won’t be as good at temperature regulation as some of the other models on this list. best travel coffee mug