One of the biggest luxuries you can have while camping is a steaming hot or ice-cold beverage in the great outdoors. Well, without a source of heat or refrigeration, that can be a bit difficult. But, with the right thermos for camping, you can pack in your favorite beverages and enjoy them right at the comfort of your campsite.
This brief guide will help you select the right thermos insulated drink container for your next camping trip. I’ll focus on models for car campers and backpackers alike. The right thermos for camping comes down to your needs. Generally, each thermos drink container works relatively the same. It’s the features, size, and quality that can make or break the thermos however. So, like every piece of camping gear you acquire, it is best to put some thought into it.
You might be wondering why I’d write an article on the best thermos for camping? Well, I would argue that hot beverages are some of the biggest luxuries you can have while out in the frigid woods. Sure, you can get a campfire going and make up a hot beverage. But, most of the time, you’d rather have the beverage on demand. So, pre-packing your full thermos is recommended. Don’t forget those cold ice beverages on a hot day. No campfire will help you there!
How Do Thermos Drink Containers Work?
Skip the science if you want, but I think the principles behind a thermos are interesting! Thermos is just a trade name that’s become the standard term for a double-walled vacuumed flask. In between each thermos is a vacuum-sealed area that separates the inside and outside. The vacuum contains almost no atoms. Allowing almost no transfer of heat.
This keeps your beverage at the desired temperature for a long period of time. Since the vacuum is not perfect and the beverage is not fully encased (you need to drink it after all!), some heat transfer occurs. So, over time, your beverage will lose/gain temperature.
What to Consider When Choosing a Thermos for Camping?
In my opinion, most thermos for camping generally have the same technology. So, the consideration for camping comes down to quality, durability, size, and accessories. The type of camping you plan to do also has some play in your decision. Car campers have more freedom in their thermos decisions. While backpackers will have to go ultra-light in their thermos choices.
My recommendations and callouts will provide a variety of choices. I’ll focus on the different types of thermos for different camping styles. I’ll bring in some of the big brands like Stanley, Thermos and Yeti. But I’m brand-agnostic for the most part. Now let’s get into those recommendations!
My Picks for a Thermos for Camping
The Classic THERMOS King Compact Flask – Ultra-Light Edition!
Remember how I said Thermos was a brand name? Well, here’s the company itself and the product that brought this to the market. Their King Flask is the classic design Thermos is known for. This 16-ounce version is great for backpackers who want to pack a hot or cold beverage in an insulated container.
This model doesn’t have impressive hot and cold times. But it would be perfect if you wanted to pack out some coffee from the campsite for another day of hiking. The key to this Thermos model is that you are saving space with your insulated container.
One GALLON of Liquid – The Kerilyn Insulated Jug
On the exact opposite of ultra-light is the Kerilyn insulated jug that holds a whopping 128 oz. I included this option as it’s perfect for those who plan to car camp, bringing in their beverage for the night. It may be overkill as a thermos for camping, but it’s a healthy option if you have a group camping with you.
Sure, it’s not name brand, but the price is respectable, and it advertises 24 hours of hot and 48 hours of cold. The design is durable but not rugged. Perfect for most car camping trips.
A Versatile, All-Around Option from Stanley – the Quick Flip GO
This final option is something meant to meet most needs. The Stanley Quick Flip Water Bottle is probably what most people can buy to meet their insulated beverage needs and not get another thermos. This was the one I purchased. Mainly for cold water, but it works equally well for hot beverages. Plus, it’s durable. I’ve had this thing thrown off my bicycle multiple times, yet it functions perfectly still!
If you just want a simple, all-around option, I’d get the Stanley. It’s small enough to pack but big enough to hold what you need it to. It’s perfect as thermos for camping in most people’s needs.
Conclusion
A thermos for camping may not seem much of a big deal. To be honest, it isn’t in my opinion. It’s not life-saving nor necessary to make the trip safe and enjoyable. But a thermos or any insulated container provided that added luxury that you might just crave. There is nothing better than hot chocolate while hiking a snow-covered forest.
Beyond a thermos, there are many more accessories you might need for camping. My “Tools of the Outdoors” series is meant to help you find that perfect “tool” for your next adventure. This post and many more are focused on helping you get out there and enjoy the outdoors! See more for the series here.
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