white coffee cup with coffee beans

7 Best RV Coffee Makers For 2023

If you have been on the hunt for the best RV coffee maker, chances are you are looking for something that is compact, durable, and above all, makes a great cup of Joe. The best coffee makers for RVs and campers are available in various sizes, types, and styles to accommodate the morning ritual needs of every coffee connoisseur.

In this article we are going to take a look at 7 of the best RV coffee makers and give a few tips on what to look for in a quality machine.

Let’s jump in…

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7 Best RV Coffee Makers

For many RV owners, coffee is one of the most important things to pack for a weekend, or longer, camping trip. While some campers prefer the simplicity of instant coffee, others want to experience something more with their morning brew.

Just because you’re spending time in your home away from home doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have some of the creature comforts of home. Having a quality RV coffee maker makes the morning coffee ritual that much easier, without packing your entire kitchen.

1.     Best Overall RV Coffee Maker

Black+Decker RV Coffee Maker

This Black+Decker programable coffee maker makes a great addition to any RV kitchen. With a 12-cup brewing capacity, this coffee maker brews enough coffee for everyone to have a hot cup of Joe in the morning.

If you like to wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee, this Black+Decker model allows you to fully program the start time of your brew, so your coffee is ready before you wake up.

Some additional features of this unit include automatic shutoff after 2 hours and a “sneak-a-cup” design that allows you to grab a cup before brewing is completed.

The non-stick hot plate keeps the coffee hot while you get yourself ready for the day. In addition, the raised lip of the burner helps hold the carafe in place.

If you have been searching for an affordable, easy-to-use option for your RV kitchen, you can’t go wrong with this programable coffee maker.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 8.25” X 12.25” X 11” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – 4.5 lbs.
  • Carafe – Glass
  • Filter Type – Paper, Reusable
  • Wattage – 975W
  • Voltage – 120V

PROS:

  • Quick-Touch Programming
  • Large Capacity
  • Easy-To-Use

CONS:

  • Glass Carafe
  • Long Auto-Shutoff

2.    Best Single-Serve Coffee Maker

Keurig Single Serve RV Coffee Maker

Keurig quickly became famous for being one of the first single-serve coffee makers in the industry and has maintained this status for over 10 years.

The Keurig K-Mini Plus is an excellent single-serve RV coffee maker that is perfect for a couple or a solo camper.

With a sleek design and extremely small footprint, less than 5” wide, this coffee maker will easily fit into the kitchen of any sized camper. What’s even better is the K-Mini Plus being available in multiple colors so finding one to match the décor of your space shouldn’t be an issue.

In addition, this single-serve coffee maker is capable of making any size cup of coffee, from 6 to 12 ounces, depending on how little, or how much coffee you want. The drip tray is removable to accommodate taller travel mugs and for easy cleaning.

Making a cup of coffee has never been easier. Simply fill the reservoir with the desired amount of water, toss in a K-Cup of your favorite flavor or brand of coffee, and in minutes you have a fresh, hot cup of Joe.

The coffee pod holder is also removable allowing you to use your own reusable coffee pod filter instead of pre-packaged K-Pods.

And since there is no glass carafe, you won’t have to worry about breaking a coffee pot on travel days. Plus, if you want to store the Keurig in a cabinet for traveling, the power cord tucks neatly into the built-in storage compartment.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 4.5” X 11.3” X 12.1” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – 4.6 lbs.
  • Carafe – None, Uses Coffee Mug
  • Filter Type – None, Uses K-Pods
  • Wattage – 1500W
  • Voltage – 120V

PROS:

  • Removable Drip Tray
  • Cord Storage
  • Space Saver

CONS:

  • Short Power Cord
  • Water Reservoir Is Non-Removable

3.     Best Stainless-Steel RV Coffee Maker

Black+Decker Stainless Steel Coffee maker

The Black+Decker 12-Cup Thermal Coffee Maker is an easy-to-use machine that not only brews a great pot of coffee but is also stylish enough to fit the décor of any RV kitchen. For those who are looking for an RV coffee maker without the fragile glass carafe, this model would make a great choice.

There is no built-in heating element to keep the pot of coffee hot like traditional coffee makers, but the insulated stainless-steel carafe keeps the brew hot for hours after it’s made.

While this stainless-steel option makes a full 12 cups of hot coffee, it takes up very little counter space. In fact, this unit only measures 8” X 11” X 11.5”.

Other notable features of this RV coffee maker are the fully programmable auto brew function with large buttons for ease of use and the “sneak-a-cup” feature for those impatient coffee drinkers.

In addition, this 12-cup thermal unit has a brew strength selector and a “time since last brew” feature. The strength selector allows you to have a stronger cup if you like and the “time since last brew” display shows you know how long it’s been since a fresh pot of coffee was made.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 8” X 11” X 11.5” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – 4 lbs.
  • Carafe – Stainless-Steel
  • Filter Type – Paper, Reusable
  • Wattage – 750W
  • Voltage – 120V

PROS:

  • Insulated Carafe
  • Sneak-A-Cup Feature
  • Large Capacity

CONS:

  • Long Brew Time
  • Plastic Components

4.     Best Propane Coffee Maker For Dry Camping

Coleman Propane Coffee Maker

One of the coolest coffee makers I have ever seen is the Coleman QuickPot Propane Coffee Maker. The design of this unit makes it perfect for those that are off-grid RV camping or car camping because it doesn’t require electricity to operate, it uses propane. In addition, it works much like the standard drip-type coffee maker found in most kitchens.

Because of its size, it would not be a good choice for hiking or backpacking. And because it uses propane, it would not be a good choice for an RV kitchen. But you can easily whip up a hot pot of coffee outside by the campfire or under your RV awning.

Included in the box is the coffee maker, glass carafe, and the propane connection tube with regulator.

To make a pot of coffee, fill the reservoir with water, pour coffee grounds and filter into the removable filter basket, hook up and turn on the propane cylinder, and start the coffee maker by igniting the interior burner. The time it takes to brew a pot of coffee will depend on the initial temperature of the water, typically 5 to 20 minutes.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 14.25” X 9.75” X 17.75” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – 9.38 lbs.
  • Carafe – Glass
  • Filter Type – Paper, Reusable
  • 4500 BTUs

PROS:

  • No Electricity Needed
  • Large Capacity
  • Built-In Ignitor

CONS:

  • Long Brew Time
  • Glass Carafe
  • Can Be Difficult To Use

5.     Best French Press Coffee Maker

Secura French Press

While the majority of Americans prefer a traditional cup of coffee, there are those that would rather savor and enjoy their morning brew. For those that take great pride in brewing a perfect cup of coffee, the Secura French Press Coffee Maker might be a great choice.

Further down in this article we explain that using a French Press coffee maker takes both practice and patience to find the perfect brew.

The first step in the brewing process is finding a quality coffee maker that can make the process just a little bit easier.

The Secura French Press coffee maker is one of the most durable and useful French Press machines on the market. The double-walled stainless-steel construction of this model not only improves the thermal retention of the coffee, but it also makes the exterior cool to the touch.

In addition to the thermal features, this coffee maker is also equipped with double, stainless-steel filters that will trap even the smallest of coffee grounds.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 4.61” X 7.6” X 9.49” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – 3.49 lbs.
  • Carafe – Stainless-Steel

PROS:

  • Easy To Clean
  • Large Capacity
  • Dishwasher Safe

CONS:

  • Brewing Process Can Be Complicated
  • Requires Patience

6.     Best Percolator For RV Camping

Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator

No best RV coffee maker list would be complete without highlighting one of the most basic forms of brewing coffee, the percolator.

I have often heard people refer to coffee made with a percolator as “Campfire Coffee” or even “Cowboy Coffee” because the longer the pot sits and “percolates,” the stronger the coffee will taste.

If you’re an RV owner that is looking for that classic, old-fashioned feel to your morning coffee, the Farberware 12-Cup Yosemite Coffee Percolator might fit the bill. The best part is you don’t necessarily need electricity to make a pot of coffee. All you need is a heat source, whether that be from a propane stove or a campfire.

The overall build quality of this RV coffee maker should not be overlooked. It is made from a strong stainless-steel that will keep your coffee hot from one cup to the next. In addition, the plastic handle ensures you won’t get a burn from handling the unit.

Another notable feature is this percolator easily disassembles for easy cleaning, and it’s dishwasher safe. Not that you would be using a dishwasher at the campground, but it’s a nice gesture.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 7.28” X 8.86” X 10.83” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – 2.5 lbs.
  • Carafe – Stainless-Steel

PROS:

  • Large Capacity
  • No Electricity Needed
  • Very Durable Construction

CONS:

  • Long Brew Time
  • Needs To Be Monitored To Avoid Boiling Over

7.     Best Pour Over Coffee Maker For RV

Pour Over RV Coffee Maker

Weighing less than one pound, this ultra-lightweight, pour-over coffee maker is perfect for any RV. With an overall capacity of 14 ounces, you won’t be making coffee for the entire campground, but this coffee maker is perfect for traveling couples and solo campers.

The Coffee Gator Pour-Over Coffee Maker features a BPA-free glass carafe that is not only heat resistant but also extremely lightweight. Unlike the automatic drip type coffee makers, this pour-over model gives you complete control over your morning brew.

It should also be noted that the Coffee Gator uses a reusable stainless-steel mesh filter that eliminates the need for paper filters.

If you are looking to enhance your morning routine, this model is a great choice and is very beginner friendly.

SPECS:

  • Dimensions – 5.5” X 5.5” X 6.8” (D x W x H)
  • Weight – .9 lbs.
  • Carafe – Glass
  • Filter Type – Reusable Stainless-Steel

PROS:

  • Cup Measurements On The Side Of The Carafe
  • Cool-Touch Filter Grip
  • Beginner Friendly

CONS:

  • Only Makes One Or Two Cups Of Coffee At A Time
  • Takes Time For Coffee To Brew
  • Glass Carafe

What To Know Before Buying An RV Coffee Maker

What is the very first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? Okay, okay, you’re right. So, what do you do AFTER hitting the bathroom? If you’re like most coffee lovers, your day just isn’t the same without that fresh, hot cup of liquid gold first thing in the morning.

It shouldn’t be difficult to find the best RV coffee maker. I mean, you would think that most coffee makers are pretty much the same. Well, there are some key differences between the various types of coffee makers. The coffee maker that is best for you and your coffee drinking needs will depend on a few things.

First, let’s discuss some of the different types of coffee makers and what makes them unique. That way you can decide which type would be a good fit for you.

Different Types Of RV Coffee Makers

Are you the coffee drinker that likes your first cup of morning Joe to taste like truck stop coffee? You know the kind. It’s the kind of coffee that has the same consistency as maple syrup and is strong enough to wake up your ancestors.

Or are you more of a sit back and enjoy every last drop of goodness in your cup before getting on with your day? Maybe you prefer your morning cup to be bit creamier with a touch of sweetness and aroma.

Either way, your preferred method of coffee drinking will impact the decision you make when it comes to furnishing your RV with a coffee maker.

What I mean is, you can either have your coffee quick and easy, or you can go through the trouble and time it takes to make a savory cup of caffeine.

Below are the main types of coffee makers you can add to your RV kitchen and a brief description of each.

  • Drip Coffee makers
  • Single-Serve Coffee Makers
  • Percolators
  • French Press
  • Espresso Makers
  • Pour-Over Coffee Makers
  • Cold-Brew Coffee Makers

Drip Coffee Makers

Drip coffee makers are the most popular and what most travelers and campers have in their RVs. In addition, this type of coffee maker is what is setting on the counter-top in most household kitchens.

In a nutshell, drip coffee makers work by simply adding water to a reservoir, adding coffee grounds to a basket with a filter, and pushing a button. After a few minutes, depending on model, you have a hot, fresh pot of coffee.

You could say that this type of coffee maker is the automated version of the pour-over coffee maker below.

Drip coffee makers are available in a variety of sizes from 4-cup to 12-cup and varying “footprints” to fit in any RV kitchen.

Single-Serve Coffee Makers

Single-serve coffee makers are becoming more and more popular to the coffee-drinking community. This type of coffee maker typically uses “pods” to brew a single cup of coffee.

These pods can either be pre-packaged, like the K-Cup for example, or you can use a refillable pod like these. With the refillable pods, you simply fill it with your favorite brand of coffee grounds before putting it in the machine.

In just a matter of minutes you have a single cup of coffee that is ready to be enjoyed.

Percolators

Percolators are available with two options, electric and stovetop. Both types work the same by continuously circulating heated water through the coffee grounds. The longer you let it “percolate,” the stronger the brew.

This type of coffee maker is an ideal choice for off-grid camping in any type of RV. For a more in-depth explanation of how a percolator works, check out this article by HomeGrounds.

French Press

If you love your morning Joe strong, full-bodied, and full of flavor. A French Press coffee maker might be a good choice for your RV camping adventures. You will, however, need to have a touch of patience with this method of brewing coffee.

In addition, there is a slight learning curve to making coffee with a French Press to guarantee you get the perfect cup of coffee.

If your water is too hot, your coffee may taste burnt, but if your water is too cold, your cup of Joe might taste watered down and bland.

Finding the perfect balance of water temperature and pressure when pushing down the filter will take some practice.

Espresso Machine

For those RV campers who want to feel like they have jet fuel in their blood, an espresso maker might be what you’re looking for. Plus, with models that would fit in any RV kitchen, you can skip the long lines at the famous Seattle based coffee shop every morning. (and save a few bucks in the process)

Unlike standard drip type coffee makers, espresso machines actually force the nearly boiling water through finely ground coffee beans. With this method, you can have your ultra-caffeinated brew in a matter of seconds.

Pour-Over Coffee Makers

One of the most basic RV coffee makers is the pour-over type. The name says it all. You simply place a filter with coffee grounds in it over a coffee cup or carafe and slowly pour hot water over the grounds.

Like we mentioned above, the drip-type RV coffee maker is the “automated” version of the pour-over.

Cold-Brew Coffee Makers

Cold brew coffee lovers state that this method of making coffee produces a cup that is smoother and better tasting than brewing coffee with hot water.

Cold-brew coffee might taste better to some, but this method of making coffee takes some time. In fact, an article by the Food Network states that cold-brewing coffee takes anywhere from 12 to 24 hours.

The article goes on to state that this method of making coffee is a “set it and forget it” method to making coffee.

I don’t know about you, but personally I’m not sure I have the patience and foresight to make coffee this way when I’m traveling or camping in our RV. But everyone is different, and we all have different tastes.

What To Look For In An RV Coffee Maker

Since the rise in “drive-thru” gourmet coffee franchises, making coffee at home or in an RV was as what some would say was “hum-drum.” Nothing fancy.

But things have changed in the past decade or two. Coffee drinkers across the country have expected more from their coffee drinking experiences. In turn, appliance manufacturers have answered the call and provided consumers with many option when it comes to their morning routines.

When choosing the best RV coffee maker, not only do you need to consider the type of coffee maker suits you, but also a few other factors that separate some coffee makers from the rest of the crowd.

Overall Dimensions

Adding an appliance to your RV kitchen takes a bit of planning. A motorhome will have more counter space than a small travel trailer for two. Either way, the overall dimensions, or space, that an RV coffee maker takes should be considered.

Total Capacity

The total capacity of an RV coffee maker can make or break a morning routine. The last thing you want to deal with is a not-so-happy camper that has to wait for another pot to brew. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen.

Keep this in mind when choosing the best option for you and your family.

Brewing Time

Another factor to consider is the time it takes to brew either a pot, or a single cup of coffee. For example, the cold-brew method would not be my personal first choice in an RV coffee maker. I’m more of the “quick-and-easy” type of coffee drinker.

How Easy Is It To Use

Do you want to explore the coffee experience and try something new? Or would you rather stick to the same old, tried and true method for making coffee?

The French Press type of RV coffee maker is popular for making more of a gourmet tasting coffee than the traditional drip-style. However, it is more difficult to use in order to get that perfect tasting cup of Joe.

Steel vs. Glass Carafe

Another factor to consider when choosing the best coffee maker for your RV is the carafe material. Many models have the glass carafes while other have a more durable stainless-steel carafe.

Our RV coffee maker has a glass carafe and on travel days we have to pay special attention to how we pack it. We typically pack the whole unit back in the original box and store it under the kitchen cabinet.

Special Features

What, if any, special features would make an RV coffee maker the best choice for you? Are you looking to wake up in the morning with a pot of coffee already brewed and ready to go? Or maybe the “sneak-a-cup” feature is the most important for you.

In Conclusion

When it comes down to it, the best RV coffee maker is going to be the one that fits nicely in your RV kitchen, has the features you need, and makes a great cup of coffee you can enjoy with your loved ones.

What are your thoughts on the RV coffee makers listed above? Did we leave anything out? If so, please drop us a comment below and let us know.

Before I go, I just have one quick question: How do you like your coffee???

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