best travel coffee cup

Best travel coffee mugs in 2024 — tested and rated

We’ve tested a range of models to find the best travel coffee mugs

The best travel coffee mugs displayed together on an outdoor railing

Best overall

Best budget and durable

Best with handle

Best heavy duty

Best color selection

Best smart travel mug

Best for heat retention

Best for sustainability

Most secure

Best mug design

Best ceramic

How we test

How to choose.

If you're on a morning commute, traveling or camping, you'll need one of the best travel mugs. These are essential for keeping your coffee warm, or your iced tea cool in warm conditions.

And while choosing a travel mug might seem easy to do, it can be tricky to know which one is suitable for your lifestyle. First, you'll need to consider what material you'd prefer? Durable materials range from steel, aluminum and plastic, to even ceramic. Also, if you'll be on the move, you'll need to know heavy it is to carry, heat retention, and overall style.

Finally, what's your budget? The best coffee travel mugs range from as little as $15 to $35. Or if you want to splurge, you could invest in more advanced types with their own battery, costing around $185.

Luckily, we’ve done all the hard work and found a great selection of the best travel mugs to suit any lifestyle, need and budget.

The quick list

Here's a quick overview of the best travel coffee mugs you can buy right now based on our testing and reviews.

The MiiR Flip Traveler is equipped with a double wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel body that holds 16 fluid ounces of liquid. It comes with a secure lid on top that flips out when you need to drink and locked in. It's lightweight and you can choose from nine, vibrant colors. Read more below

Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

Stanley is known for their rugged design and durability, and this travel mug is a great choice for the outdoors. Made from stainless steel, it holds 16 ounces. What's more, the lid has a unique trigger system that lets you sip by just pressing the button, making it leak-proof.

1. MiiR Flip Traveler

The MiiR Flip Traveler is one of the best travel coffee mugs we’ve tested, offering a compact cup that will keep your liquids hot or cold for hours. Coming in 9 different colors, the double wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel body holds 16 fluid ounces of liquid. Although there are 12 and 20 fluid ounce capacities available too. The cup itself is very light, coming in it at 10.2 ounces.

The unique lid on top flips out when you need to drink and is secure when you need it locked in. But right after you drink, a small amount of liquid can gather on the lid, leaking to tiny droplets getting in places they shouldn’t. Also, if you don’t lock the lid firmly in place, it can spill. There’s nothing worse than having hot tea on your electronics because you didn’t make sure the lid was completely down.

It was one of the best we tested at keeping liquids consistently hot. Our testing started at 203 degrees Fahrenheit, only to drop to 178 after two hours, 154 after five hours, and 126 after 10 hours. Other cups paled in comparison, with the MiiR outclassing them in the category that is, literally and figuratively, the hottest.

Washing the cup is super simple and the lid doesn’t need to be taken apart to be put in the dishwasher. The whole cup is fairly durable and comfortable to hold. Overall, MiiR offers a fantastic travel mug with few downsides, keeping everything cool and on the inside. Give it a try if you are looking for a mug that offers everything you’d need.

Best travel coffee mugs: Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

2. Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

Best budget and best durable

Stanley is a brand built for rugged adventures and their Trigger Action Travel Mug is no exception. The strong, durable exterior claims that it has survived a bullet so it should be able to handle whatever you can throw at it. Made of stainless steel, the double-wall vacuum insulation creates a sturdy mug that weighs 12.8 ounces and holds 16 ounces, making it one of the heaviest we reviewed. A 20 ounce capacity is available too, which will no doubt weigh even more — we tested the 16 ounce capacity.

The lid is also built to last, having a unique trigger system that lets you take a sip by just pressing the button. Though the lid is useful, it does tend to leave a bit of water in the mouthpiece if you close it too quickly. But other than the occasional dribble, it won’t leak even when turned upside down and severely shaken. The whole cup is dishwasher safe, but you might want to think twice about taking apart the lid. It's a bit difficult to reassemble, especially when you haven’t rebuilt it before.

It kept the heat in fairly well, starting at 204 degrees Fahrenheit, dropping to 176 at two hours, 152 at five, and 125 hours at 10. But when it does have a hot liquid in it, the heat only breaks through a bit allowing you to hold even scolding beverages without a problem.

While the MSRP is $25, it can often be found for $17.50, so you are getting one of the best travel coffee mugs out there for a great price. Even if you aren’t the adventurous type and just need something to shove in your cup holder that won’t tip over, then Stanley is your guy.

Best travel coffee mugs: Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

3. Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Hydro Flask is one of the most popular brands for travel mugs and cups for a very good reason. Available in multiple sizes, from 12 to 40 ounces, and in 11 colors, this travel mug features double-wall vacuum insulation to keep your drinks at the right temperature for hours. The stainless steel bottle is durable, with paint that won’t chip from use.

What really makes this mug different from the competition is its unique lid. The top handle is great for taking it on the go, but when you unscrew it you see the real magic. To take a sip, just turn the lid counterclockwise to open the seal. When you want to take the whole lid apart to clean, just unscrew it in the opposite direction, revealing the intricate mechanism beneath. Keep in mind that getting it put back together can be a bit of a hassle or might take practice.

The cup is incredibly durable and lightweight, coming in at 11.6 ounces for the 20 ounce capacity. Though it lacks a rubber bottom, the cup is still comfortable to hold and stable. It's also great at keeping your drinks hot, falling from 202 degrees Fahrenheit to 172 after two hours, 145 after five, and 116 after 10. It's definitely one of the more unique-looking cups we’ve tested, but that doesn’t make it any less spectacular. Expert engineering and craftsmanship put it at the top of our list. This is why it’s one of the best travel coffee mugs.

Best travel coffee mugs: THERMOS Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

4. THERMOS Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

Thermos is a brand that has become synonymous with quality travel mugs, and the Stainless King is truly a wonderful option. Made of stainless steel, this vacuum-insulated cup is dishwasher safe and should fit in most cup holders. The handle on the side makes holding the cup easy and the outside stays cool even when hot liquids are inside. It is available in four different colors and holds 16 fluid ounces of liquid.

The lid is expertly crafted and won’t leak no matter how many times it's turned over or shaken. But it does have to be completely closed to work, just a little bit of an opening and the cup will spill out whatever is inside.

To open the lid, just turn the nozzle counter-clockwise revealing the “open” label on the lid. When it's closed, the lid creates a vacuum seal that keeps everything nice and hot. There’s even a small hook on the bottom of the lid to hold your tea bag and make sure it doesn’t fall in. The lid doesn’t even need to be taken apart to clean.

The Thermos excels at keeping beverages hot, outperforming everything else we tested. Starting at 203 degrees Fahrenheit, it only dropped to 181 at two hours, 159 at five, and 131 at 10 hours, which we found was still too hot to drink. It earns a spot on our list as one of the best travel coffee mugs for this reason alone.

It is one of the heaviest cups we tested, coming in at a whopping 15.6 ounces. The only heavier mug was the Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug.

5. Yeti Rambler

Available in 10, 20 or 30 ounces (we tested the 20 oz capacity), the Yeti Rambler is unique in its design, offering a much stouter mug with enough room for your liquid inside. Cupholder-friendly and dishwasher safe, this double-wall vacuum-insulated mug is great for taking your cold or hot drinks on the go. Plus it’s available in a whopping 34 colors, so you can find whatever tone you want.

Because of its more round shape, it's better than some we’ve reviewed at not getting knocked over, though it doesn’t have a rubber bottom for grip. But even the mightiest wind should allow the Yeti to stay upright.

The lid is simple but effective when kept upright. You can slide it up to take a sip and then slide it back down to seal it. The slide requires a bit of pressure for it to get opened, so it shouldn’t just flop open and spill what's inside. But you shouldn’t just place this cup in your bag because it is possible for it to spill. The lid does not screw on and only has a rubber circle keeping it in place. With enough shaking or momentum, the lid will pop off and won’t have an airtight seal when turned upside down.

It's also a bit dangerous to drink while hot. We found that while testing the outer ring on the lid retains heat a bit too well and was too hot to touch. The cup itself retains heat well enough, starting at 204 degrees Fahrenheit and going to 166 after two hours, 136 after five, and 108 after ten.

But if you aren’t going on any backpack adventures and just want a drink to keep warm, then the Yeti is a great option.

Best travel coffee mugs: Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug

6. Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug

Having an electronic travel mug that costs $185 might seem a bit extra, but the Ember makes it seem absolutely reasonable. The mug has an internal battery and can keep a drink at the same consistent temperature for three hours on a single charge. All you have to do is tap the center to reveal icons and set it to your desired temperature.

It's packed full of smart features, which is why it’s one of the best travel coffee mugs, like Bluetooth that connects it to your phone to set the temperature and light that tells you when the cup needs charging. It also has an app, which is simple to use and works flawlessly, showing the battery level and temperature of the beverage (but it does need to be reconnected after every use). To charge it, all you have to do is place the cup on the included stand and it should be ready to go in just a few hours. We set the temperature to 136 degrees Fahrenheit after starting at 199, it managed to stay the same for the whole 10-hour period.

The lid is also a marvel of engineering- all you have to do is press down whenever you want to drink to create a small circle of liquid to flow through. Even when shaken, the liquid didn’t escape and stayed inside the remarkable metal cylinder. Some liquid might stay around the lid after you take a sip, so keep that in mind.

It’s also very durable and has a rubber-coated bottom to keep it from spilling over. It might be a great travel mug, but other options can do what it does without the hefty price tag. There’s no need to over-engineer a cup that’s worked fine before. It’s fairly lightweight, coming in at 12 ounces and holding 12 fluid ounces. Being hand wash only is a drawback to boot as well.

7. Teabloom

The Teabloom tumbler allows you to make teas on the go with everything inside the bottle. Unlike a lot of other travel mugs, this long but elegant bottle comes with a metal diffuser with its own handle that you can throw your favorite tea blend or coffee right inside. Holding 16 fluid ounces, it's made of stainless steel and brushed with a metallic exterior that stood up to the wear and tear of everyday use and weighs 15.2 ounces.

The tumbler is very thin and can be a bit wobbly. It doesn’t have a rubber grip and it's tall but the thin facade can cause it to get knocked down with just a little bit of force. But it will fit in almost every cup holder snugly, without any worry of it flying out.

The lid is a simple screw-on top with a rubber ring that easily stops it from leaking even when shaken upside down. We found that even with the lid not screwed on completely all the way, the cup did not spill any water.

It also retained heat very well. When you put it in high-temperature beverages you can feel the heat on the side but it is definitely not too hot to touch. Out of all the travel mugs we tested without its own battery, the Teabloom held heat the longest, starting at 203 degrees Fahrenheit, and falling to 179 at two hours, 154 at five hours, and 126 at ten hours. It's by far one of the best travel coffee mugs to store hot liquid in, the fact it can make tea, coffee, or infused fruit water is just a plus.

Best travel coffee mugs: bioGo 16 oz Reusable Coffee Cups

8. bioGo 16 oz Reusable Coffee Cups

The bioGo Reusable Coffee Cup is simplistic but offers everything you’d need in a travel mug. Available in eight colors, it's made of recycled rice husks making them better for the environment. They also fit in cup holders and have a padded bottom to stop the cup from falling over.

It's also remarkably light; the model we tested weighs 6.2 ounces while still holding 16 fluid ounces. Although a 13 ounce capacity is also available. That light nature does make it feel a bit flimsy, but it held up to being knocked around just as well as other stainless steel mugs we tested. The cup is dishwasher safe and won’t break apart after multiple uses.

The screw-on lid is simple but effective. The hole on top has a plastic stopper that can be flipped in or out, which effectively keeps liquids inside. No matter how shaken or flipped upside down, the cup did not leak. The lid closer did not move once it was locked in place, but when the piece came out of the hole it did flop around.

Though it's a very pretty and stylish cup, it didn’t retain heat as well as a lot of the other mugs we tested. Starting at 202 degrees, it dropped quickly to 118 by two hours, 90 by five, and room temperature by 10. The whole cup became extremely warm on the outside, starting out at 125 degrees making it too hot to touch. If you need a mug that's safe for the environment and that you don’t need to hold hot beverages for long periods, then give this bioGo a shot. The environmentally friendly aspects make it one of the best travel coffee mugs.

Best travel coffee mugs: Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

9. Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

The Contigo West Loop Travel Mug has a gorgeous and unique shape that is durable enough to last. Made of stainless steel and its own patented Thermalock insulation, drinks stay hot or cold for hours inside. The shape makes it stand out from other travel mugs out there while still being slim enough to fit in most car cup holders. It holds 16 ounces of fluid and weighs 6.9 ounces. A 20 ounce capacity is also available, but we tested the smaller model.

The lid opens with a button press on the side, allowing any liquid to flow without issue. Even when shaken and held upside down, nothing escaped. To make sure nothing escapes, there’s a fantastic locking feature where all you have to do is press down on a button on top to make sure the lid can’t open. So when you place the mug in your bag, the button won’t accidentally get pressed and spill everywhere.

The odd shape does have it wobble a bit when tapped and it lacks rubber grips on the bottom, so it can fall. But it is still quite durable so even a tumble shouldn’t crack the exterior. The whole cup is dishwasher safe and the locking lid does not require disassembly to clean.

When filled with hot liquid, we found that the plastic lid coated in rubber got very hot and couldn’t be touched at max heat. But it did hold heat tolerably, starting at 204 degrees Fahrenheit and failing to 166 at two hours, 137 at five, and 111 at 10. Other travel mugs insulated a bit more consistently, but the Contigo still earned a recommendation, which is why it makes the list as one of the best travel coffee mugs.

Best travel coffee mugs: Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

10. Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

The Ello Campy Travel Mug is a simple, yet truly effective, liquid container. Its sleek metallic exterior hides a vacuum-insulated interior that keeps beverages cold or hot hours after use. That hard body makes it incredibly durable, though the plastic lid may not be able to handle the most aggressive of use.

The handle is coated in cork inside, helping you keep your grip and not burn yourself when going for a drink. The large handle makes it impossible for it to fit firmly in most car cup holders, especially any that are very deep. But it does make the cup look aesthetically pleasing and simple to use if you’d rather grasp a handle.

The screw-on lid is a bit more than just a simple piece of plastic, using a unique flipping mechanism to look the cup in place. Hot liquids made the lid too hot to touch and drink. It's also just a simple push button that can easily be knocked open without you noticing. This cup can’t be placed in a bag because it will spill everywhere. But it won’t leak when turned upside down as long as the lid is positioned correctly.

The whole cup is fairly good at keeping liquids hot, starting at 203 degrees Fahrenheit it fell to 171 at two hours, 142 at five, and 113 at 10. That puts it alongside a lot of the other cups we tested with vacuum insulation. Overall, it's great as long as you don’t try to drink scolding hot beverages. The model tested holds 18 ounces and weighs 5.3 ounces, but a smaller 11 ounce design is also available.

Best travel coffee mugs: Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug

11. Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug

The Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug is elegant with a timeless look, capturing the vibe of a cozy summer cottage somewhere in the wilderness. With a thick rubber bottom, the mug stays firmly planted when placed down and won't jiggle too much unless you try to knock it over. Being made of ceramic, we imagine that it's not as durable as other steel options (though we didn’t intentionally try to break it).

The handle on the side makes it comfortable to hold, though it is a fairly wide mug that won’t fit in most cup car holders. You can fill it with 18 fluid ounces of liquid and clean it in the dishwasher.

The top lid is a thin piece of plastic that you can shift up and down to take a drink. The lid is most certainly not leakproof and does not offer an airtight seal. If you just flip it over, the liquid will come gushing out, potentially with the lid as well. The lid is not screwed on and has no rubber gasket and is only held in place by a thin rubber bit around the lid.

It’s also not very good at retaining heat. It started at 199 degrees Fahrenheit and went down to 115 in just two hours. Like the Tupkee Glass Tumbler, the cup reached room temperature in just five hours. It's a much better indoor mug than a travel one, offering a unique option that just isn’t as stable as others on this list. The mug is also quite heavy, coming in at 22 ounces.

We put these travel mugs through rigorous testing for durability, heat retention, and comfort. First, we gave a score to every mug based on holding capacity, comfort to hold, stability, ease of opening, ease of cleaning, weight, and quality.

Best travel coffee mugs: Thermos mug shown above sink

Then we performed a test to see if it could hold liquid while turned upside down, without spilling a drop. We filled each cup to its maximum amount and held it upside down for five seconds. Then we noted which cups leaked and spilled onto the countertop. Most mugs managed to stay tight-lipped, while others leaked their insides everywhere. After a quick wipe-down of each mug, we moved on to the next step.

Best travel coffee mugs: Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug, Ember and Thermos shown on counter with digital thermometer testing liquid temperature.

Then we tested each mug's ability to retain heat. We filled each cup at the same time with boiling water and checked its temperature with a digital instant-read thermometer at two, five, and 10 hours. To check the inside temperature, we opened the top and placed a thermometer with a rod inside just long enough to get the recording without leaking much heat. Then, we closed the lid as quickly as possible before moving onto the next one.

Material A travel mug can be made of stainless steel, plastic, ceramic, or glass. If you need a more durable mug, you should find one made of a tougher material like steel or plastic. These tougher mugs are also much better at retaining heat, with some having a vacuum insulation that keeps heat from escaping.

Durability Steel and plastic mugs are incredibly durable, able to withstand rigorous outdoor activity or time spent knocking around in a backpack. Mugs with rubber bottoms are also better at staying upright and not just falling over. If you are looking for a mug you can take on the road, it needs to be both durable and practical to use.

Size Most travel mugs are between 12 and 20 ounces, with 16 and 18 being the sweet spot. Most are slim enough to fit inside your average car coffee cup holder, while being snug enough to not just bounce around inside. If you are looking for a good sized mug, then aim for one that's around eight to ten inches in height.

How easy is to clean Ideally, you should wash or rinse out your travel mugs straight after use, to prevent any grimy build-up inside. If you want to remove odors, one tip is to add ½ cup of vinegar before adding 1tbsp baking soda into the travel mug. Allow it to soak in the solution overnight, and then rinse it with warm water. Make sure you rinse it well so that there are no traces of the solution/vinegar. This should have removed lingering smells.

How do you keep your beverage hot or cold? Whether you want to maximize the heat or chill factor of your drink, there are a few tips. For hot beverages, it's recommended to pour hot water into the mug, and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Then empty the mug, before adding your hot drink, and this should retain the temperature. The same applies for cold drinks, but you use ice cubes in the cold water instead.

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Steven Asarch is a writer and editor who lives on Twitch and YouTube. After graduating from Baruch College, he wrote for IBT Media, Newsweek and Insider. In 2021, he executive produced the docu-series "Onision in Real Life" on Discovery +. As someone always looking to have the best smelling apartment possible, he's made it his mission to find the best air purifiers out there. His home has since become an air purifier haven, having stored and tested ten models for over three months. You could say he now knows everything there is to know about air purifiers, and what separates the good from the best.

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The Best Travel Mug

By Trey French and Anna Perling

Hot drinks are a daily staple for many, and just as important as the beverage is the travel mug that keeps it warm while you’re on the go.

After a decade of testing travel mugs, we still recommend the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug for most people.

It keeps drinks hot for hours, and its locking lid stays securely closed, even when you toss the mug into a bag. We also have another option, which fits better in most cup holders, for use while you’re driving.

Everything we recommend

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

The best travel mug.

This mug offers the best heat retention, plus one-handed usability and a locking, leakproof lid, which makes it especially useful if you carry your mug in a bag or backpack.

Buying Options

Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug (16 ounces)

A wider mug for drivers.

This wider mug fit securely in our testers’ cup holders, and its spill-proof lid design is good for rough roads. It doesn’t retain heat as well as the Zojirushi mug—a fact that some people might actually appreciate.

OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set

For cleaning your mug.

This bottle-cleaning set has a skinny straw brush and a looped detail-cleaning brush, which are all you need to keep your travel mug squeaky clean.

The 16-ounce Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug keeps beverages hot for hours, even in cold environments. It has a well-designed exterior, an easy-to-clean nonstick Teflon interior, and a foolproof lid-locking mechanism that you can operate with one hand.

The mug is lightweight and slim, but it may not fit snugly in some cup holders. However, thanks to its locking lid, we were comfortable carrying it around in a bag, without worrying about leaks.

This Zojirushi model is pricey for a travel mug, but this is the mug we trust most not to spill in a bag, and it’s hard to put a price on that. (Actually, that would be about the price of a new bag, laptop, phone, and whatever else happened to be in there at the time.)

It’s also available in a 20-ounce version .

Like other Zojirushi products, it comes with a five-year warranty.

The 16-ounce Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug is wider and fits better in most car cup holders than the Zojirushi mug. The lid has an auto-sealing button that prevents spills, and when you drink, it won’t block your view of the road ahead.

Although this Stanley model may not keep drinks as hot as the Zojirushi mug, some people might prefer such results—we’ve heard many complaints over the years of the Zojirushi mug keeping drinks too hot.

Both the mug and the lid are dishwasher safe, but the lid has fewer parts than that of our top pick, so it is easier to disassemble and hand-wash if you prefer to clean it that way.

And let’s not forget that these things need cleaning regularly. That’s why we also have a bottle-brush recommendation for when you need to clean out the gunk .

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: zojirushi sm-sf stainless steel mug (16 ounces), also great: stanley classic trigger-action travel mug (16 ounces), also great: oxo good grips water bottle cleaning set, other good travel mugs, the competition.

We’ve been testing travel mugs since 2013. Previous versions of this guide were written and researched by Séamus Bellamy and Anna Perling.

In 2023, staff writer Trey French wrote the latest version this guide. He covers travel and outdoor gear, including thermoses , ice cleats , and thermal underwear . He gained an appreciation of high-performing insulated drinkware while spring camping in Colorado when the temperatures dropped below freezing.

In addition to conducting our own tests, we’ve done the following:

We spoke to engineers and industry professionals about mug design, ideal coffee and tea drinking temperatures, and the best way to find out how long coffee will really stay good in a travel mug.
We watched a mass of online videos on what other professional and consumer reviewers had to say about travel mugs.

Travel mugs, as their name implies, are for people who want to take beverages on the go. Compared with paper or Styrofoam cups, a good travel mug offers better insulation and safeguards against leaks or spills. In addition, you can save money in the long run and reduce your environmental impact by using a travel mug.

Tumblers, thermoses, and insulated water bottles are all close cousins to the travel mug but have some important differences:

Tumblers have sipping ports that don’t seal as tightly or securely as on travel mugs . They also have wider mouths for adding ice cubes. Many also have straws for sipping cold beverages.
Thermoses usually lack the slim size and lid-design features that make travel mugs portable and convenient. With a thermos, instead of popping open a lid to take a sip, you need to unscrew the cap and pour liquid into an open cup to drink.
Insulated water bottles are geared toward keeping drinks cold and don’t have sipping ports like travel mugs do. Instead, they often have screw-top lids that require two hands to open and close, or they have sport caps, which aren’t great for hot drinks.

Here’s what we prioritized when deciding which travel mugs to test:

Vacuum-insulated: All of the mugs we consider are double-walled and vacuum-insulated .

Capable of retaining heat all day: We look for mugs that claim to keep hot beverages drinkably warm for at least eight hours.

Made of stainless steel: Stainless steel is more durable than glass or ceramic and retains heat better than plastic. It’s also the best material for vacuum insulation and therefore heat retention.

Leakproof and spill-proof: A leakproof seal keeps a closed lid from leaking if the mug jostles. A spill-proof seal guards against spills should you drop the mug or knock it over; such seals typically incorporate a push button, like the one found on the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action.

Easy to use: A good mug should be easy to both open and close, as well as to lock and unlock, with one hand. It should also be easy to disassemble for cleaning. We look for mugs that advertise these features or have reviews indicating that they are easy to use.

Between 12 and 20 ounces in capacity: We’ve concluded that 16 ounces is the optimal capacity for a travel mug, as it delays the need for a refill while remaining portable and easy to hold. Some people prefer wider mugs that don’t rattle in cup holders, while others like slimmer mugs that take up less space in backpacks or bags. We test both styles.

After considering the everyday wear and tear that a travel mug might go through in real-world scenarios, we devised tests to mimic those scenarios:

Leak and spill tests: We test mugs for leaky seals by shaking them upside down, dropping them, and carrying them in bags.

Drop test: We drop each mug three times from a height of 4 feet onto asphalt.

Insulation test: We fill each mug with boiling water and then measure how quickly the water cools over eight hours, checking every hour.

Ease of cleaning: We wash each mug, following instructions; we also take apart their lids and wash those. We check for lingering smells and to see if the finish on the mug is harmed.

Cup holder compatibility: We test the mugs in cup holders of varying sizes (2.75, 3.5, and 3.75 inches in diameter).

A blue Zojirushi SM-SF Stainless Steel Mug.

The 16-ounce Zojirushi SM-SF Stainless Steel Mug is the best travel mug for keeping drinks hot for long periods of time. This mug also comes in a 20-ounce size. (The SM-SF is the current model; these model designations often change from year to year, but the mugs themselves stay the same.)

It kept our drinks the hottest. According to the Specialty Coffee Association of America, the best temperature range for coffee is 145 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit. After sitting for eight hours in the Zojirushi mug in a 72-degree room, our water measured 158 degrees—hotter than in any other mug we tested. That translates to hot coffee over a full workday. (If you’re opening the mug more frequently than once an hour, however, it might cool a bit faster.)

It won’t leak. It has sturdy, leakproof seals and a simple locking mechanism. Just close the lid, switch the lock into position, and you’re guaranteed that the top won’t pop open when you don’t want it to—when you’re carrying the mug in a bag, for instance.

It’s easy enough to keep clean. The nonstick interior helps to prevent odors and stains, though the mug’s instructions do warn against storing milk or fruit juices in the mug. (If you prefer drinking from a vessel that doesn’t have a nonstick coating, you might consider the Zojirushi SM-KHE , which has an electro-polished stainless steel interior.) The narrow girth makes it hard to get a sponge inside, but using a bottle brush circumvents that problem. You can disassemble the plastic lid to clean out any gunk that might be lodged in hard-to-reach places, although the small plastic and silicone parts can be difficult to get on and off the lid.

It’s durable. Though this mug developed a few scuffs in our drop tests, it acquired no more than the other mugs we tried, some of which fared far worse. Zojirushi backs the vacuum insulation of its stainless steel mugs with a five-year limited warranty, and the company sells individual replacement parts online .

It’s simple. The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug has an attractive design that’s minimalist yet eye-catching in its simplicity. The 20-ounce version comes in only one color (navy), but our pick, the 16-ounce version, comes in three (navy, pale pink, mint blue).

How the Zojirushi mug has held up

The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug might be the single most commonly owned and used product among Wirecutter staffers; it has traveled in many crowded bags, backpacks, and purses without any problems. One staff member did report that after eight years of use, hers finally developed a leak. Another colleague says that their mug has survived drops onto cement (once from a third-floor balcony) without suffering more than a dent.

Zojirushi specifies hand-washing only, but we know of several mugs that have survived accidental trips through the dishwasher without any noticeable decrease in performance, though the external paint has flaked as a result.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Zojirushi mug is sometimes too good at insulating. We’ve found that if we pour fresh coffee directly into the mug, the liquid can stay scalding hot for hours. To prevent burning your mouth, let your beverage cool a little before closing the lid.

It’s not cup holder friendly. This model, which is more narrow than a typical travel mug, did not fit snugly in our testers’ car cup holders. If you prefer a travel mug with a larger circumference, check out our also-great pick.

It isn’t spill-proof. Though the SM-SF is leakproof, it isn’t spill-proof like our also-great pick; the design lacks an automatic seal to prevent liquid from spilling if you drop the mug while you’re drinking.

A white Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug.

The 16-ounce Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug is our recommendation for use in a car, as it’s a great spill-proof mug that keeps drinks hot and fits in a cup holder.

It’s designed for drivers. Wider than the Zojirushi mug, this Stanley model fit more securely in our testers’ car cup holders. The top of the mug is narrower than the base, though, to help reduce heat loss through the lid. (Experts told us that the lid is where a double-walled mug loses the most heat.) And the design has no pop-up lid to bump your nose or block your eyes while you’re drinking.

A close-up of the cap of a white Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug.

It’s spill-proof, unlike the Zojirushi mug. You do need to hold down a button to keep the sipping port open to drink from the mug, which may be frustrating to some people. However, this design prevents spills—whether from rough roads, say, or if you accidentally knock the mug over while reaching for it—since the mug closes automatically. Other mugs we tested, such as the Contigo Autoseal Transit and West Loop (both former runners-up), had similar buttons, but the button on the Classic Trigger-Action was easier to press and hold. Unlike the Zojirushi model, this mug has no lock to secure its lid, but it never leaked in our tests.

It’s tough. This mug endured our drop tests, sporting only light scuffing on the plastic lid and minor dents at the side of the base of its body. Like Zojirushi’s five-year warranty, Stanley’s lifetime warranty covers only manufacturer defects, not damage to mug components due to accidents or wear. Should you damage the lid or simply lose it, you can buy a replacement lid .

It’s dishwasher safe. Both the mug body and the lid can go in the dishwasher. The lid has some hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, so be sure to disassemble it for the best cleaning results. Stanley’s lid has fewer pieces than Zojirushi’s lid and is easier to take apart.

You have more color choices. If you care about colors, the Classic Trigger-Action comes in many—about a dozen at last count. This mug also comes in a 20-ounce size .

It doesn’t keep drinks hot as long as our top pick does. The Classic Trigger-Action can’t keep your beverages quite as hot for quite as long as our top pick can, but that might be a plus for those who complain that the Zojirushi mug keeps drinks too hot. When we boiled water and let it sit in this Stanley mug, the water took only three hours to cool to 158 degrees (whereas water in the Zojirushi mug took eight hours to reach that temperature). After eight hours, the water in the Classic Trigger-Action measured 132 degrees—26 degrees cooler than the water in the Zojirushi mug. If you drink your beverages quickly or don’t want to wait for them to cool down before sealing your mug, the Classic Trigger-Action may be a better option for you.

The OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set is the best bottle-cleaning set. It comes with a large bottle brush, a skinny straw brush, and a looped detail-cleaning brush, all kept together on a handy ring so you won’t lose any of the parts. The set is dishwasher safe, and we found that it works well for anyone looking to remove gunk from travel mugs and other hard-to-clean items.

If you want a mug with a locking lid for about half the price of our top pick: Consider the GSI Microlite 500 Flip , which keeps liquids almost as hot as the Zojirushi mug and has a similar one-handed flip top with a lock.

However, when we dropped this GSI mug to the ground when the lid was unlocked, the lid popped open and spilled coffee everywhere—and the exact same thing happened when we dropped it a second time. Eventually, we dropped the mug enough, accidentally, to break the lid; GSI does sell replacement lids.

This mug, which has a large sipping port, also has a higher flow rate than our picks, and may require more careful sipping when the beverage is really hot.

If the Zojirushi mug is out of stock: You might look into the MiiR 360 Traveler , which in our tests kept drinks almost as hot and resisted denting just as well as our top pick. When it’s unlocked, its sipping port allows you to drink from anywhere on the lid’s circumference. We decided not to make it a pick because we struggled to decipher whether the sipping port was open or closed—which in turn led to spills. Unlike some twist-to-open 360-degree ports, the MiiR 360 Traveler’s lid has a push button for operation that forms the center of the lid, and at a glance, it looks nearly the same whether closed or open.

The mug is also available in a flip-top version called the Flip Traveler , but we’ve found flip-top lids prone to breaking during our drop tests. The mug bodies for the 360 Traveler and the Flip Traveler are the same, and the lids are interchangeable, in case you buy one and then decide that you’d like to try the other.

We’ve considered and evaluated several other Zojirushi travel mugs throughout our testing. Here’s a breakdown:

Zojirushi SM-WR : Almost identical to the SM-SF series, this version has an integrated gasket, which reduces the total pieces to clean. We like it almost as much as our top pick. However, it dispenses a little faster than the SM-SF, which is good for cold drinks but can be too much for really hot drinks.
Zojirushi SM-YAE : This 16-ounce mug costs a little more than our main pick. It comes with an electro-polished interior, like the Zojirushi SM-KHE, but has a shape that’s stouter than other Zojirushi mugs and short enough to fit under the spout of a single-cup brewing machine. In our tests, however, it fell short of our picks in insulating performance: After eight hours, the water temperature had dropped to 100 degrees, 58 degrees cooler than the water in our top pick.
Zojirushi SM-SHE : We were reluctant to test this mug due to persistent stock issues. Zojirushi sent us one to try out anyway, but it broke during our drop test.
Zojirushi SM-JHE : We opted not to test this mug because it has a wide-mouth, screw-off lid.
Zojirushi SM-JTE : We also elected not to test this model, which has a tea-leaf filter, due to its screw-off lid.

The JoeVeo Temperfect Javabliss 16 Travel Mug brings a scalding drink down to a drinkable temperature and holds it there by using a third layer in its wall to capture excess heat and then release it over time. It isn’t leakproof or spill-proof, though.

The 17-ounce Kinto Travel Tumbler insulates well—so well that it was the third-best contender at insulating in our tests behind the Zojirushi SM-SF and GSI Microlite 500 Flip. Drinking from it requires fully removing the lid, though, and finding a place to put the lid.

After dismissing previous iterations of the Hydro Flask travel mug, we tested the 20-ounce Hydro Flask Coffee Cup with Flex Sip Lid , and it was a clear improvement over older models. It kept drinks hot for about a half day, and it resisted denting better than about half of the other tested mugs. The lid requires two hands to open and close, however, so it can be tough to open while you’re distracted, and it has a tendency to “burp” a small amount of liquid when you rotate the lid from closed to open.

The 16-ounce OXO Good Grips Thermal Mug with SimplyClean Lid resembles—and insulates about as well as—the Hydro Flask mug we tested, keeping drinks hot for a half day. It also shares that model’s flaws, requiring two hands to open and close, and burping some liquid.

The Klean Kanteen Insulated Wide Mouth Water Bottle was a previous runner-up in this guide, as well as a former insulated water bottle pick, but we found that the lid occasionally leaked when we left the bottle on its side overnight.

The 18-ounce Purist Mover with Scope Lid insulates nearly as well as our picks and has a 360-degree sip lid, which lets you drink from any side of the mug. It requires two hands to open and close, though.

We broke the flip-top lid of the 20-ounce Welly Traveler , as well as the glued-on product-label plate on the bottom of the mug, the first time we dropped it.

The 12-ounce Ketiee Travel Mug is cheaper than most mugs we looked at, and we wondered what we’d get for the price. It kept drinks hot for about two hours during our tests, scoring near the bottom. Our main complaint is that the molding process left a pointy knob on our test unit, right above the drinking port, that pressed into our testers’ noses. Also, the product page states that it’s spill-proof—and we found that it wasn’t, whether the flip-top lid was open or closed.

The battery-powered Ember Travel Mug 2 promises to keep your beverage at a specific temperature (up to 145 degrees) for three hours—if you remember to charge it. Without the battery, it scored at the bottom on our insulation test; we also managed to break its inner seal during our drop test. Although we like the standard Ember Mug 2 (read more in our mug warmers guide ), we can’t recommend this even more expensive sibling.

The Contigo Autoseal West Loop Travel Mug was one of our previous runners-up. Like the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action , it has a button that you need to push before you can drink. The West Loop didn’t hold up as well in our drop tests as the Stanley model did, and we found its vertical push button harder to use than the one on our current also-great pick.

This article was edited by Ria Misra and Christine Ryan.

Hongbin Bill Ma, director, Center of Thermal Management at the University of Missouri , phone interview , September 22, 2017

Michael Dickey, professor of chemical engineering at North Carolina State University , phone interview , September 26, 2017

Meet your guides

Trey French

Trey French is a staff writer at Wirecutter covering outdoors gear. A trail runner, backcountry skier, and long-distance backpacker, he has reviewed gear for Treeline Review and advised wilderness travelers on lightweight backcountry equipment at Katabatic Gear. He resides in California’s Eastern Sierra, where scenic desktop backgrounds are born.

Anna Perling

Anna Perling is a former staff writer covering kitchen gear at Wirecutter. During her time at Wirecutter, she reported on various topics including sports bras, board games, and light bulbs. Previously she wrote food and lifestyle pieces for Saveur and Kinfolk magazines. Anna is a mentor at Girls Write Now and a member of the Online News Association.

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The Best Travel Coffee Mugs, Whether You Walk, Ride, or Drive

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

We take our recommendation for the best travel coffee mugs very seriously. The working world (ours anyway) runs on caffeine, and for many coffee drinkers, that need has to be satisfied on the go. So a good travel coffee mug—one that’s easy to hold, doesn't leak, and keeps hot coffee hot and iced coffee cold—is a must.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Image may contain: Steel, Bottle, and Shaker

Brumate Nav

Yeti Rambler 10-Ounce Tumbler with Magslide Lid

To find the best travel mugs available right now, we tested more than 20 popular and top-rated options in a variety of shapes and sizes. Below, you’ll find our top picks for commuters of all kinds, followed by the details of how we tested and what we looked for. To learn the pros and cons of all the other mugs we tested, keep reading.

The best travel coffee mug to toss in your bag: Zojirushi

Of all the travel mugs we tested, there are only a few we’d feel comfortable tossing into a bag with our laptop or favorite book, and of them all, this one was the absolute best at keeping our coffee hot. After five hours the hot coffee we poured in was almost too hot to drink.

That excellent heat retention is due to the Zojirushi’s vacuum-insulated, double-walled stainless steel. Though it sounds like a beast, this travel mug is actually relatively lightweight and has a super-slim design that fits perfectly in your hand or bag. It also looks really nice, which is a definite plus for a mug you'll be carting around everywhere.

And you never have to worry about coffee spilling inside your bag or briefcase because the spout cap has a pretty serious sliding lock on the top that, when engaged, makes it impossible to open or spill. Shake, rattle, roll this thing—it's not going to leak any hot drinks on you or whatever else you’re carrying. The lid also comes apart for easy hand washing.

The Zojirushi travel tumbler isn’t dishwasher-safe, which is true of many vacuum-insulated vessels. This was the slimmest travel mug we tested (the opening of all three sizes is just 1⅝ inch) so if you want to clean it with friction, you’ll need a soft bottle bottle brush . That kind of cleaning shouldn’t be necessary often since the inside has a non-stick coating. We weren’t able to find any kind of documentation on what that coating actually is but it probably is nothing to worry about as the issues with nonstick cookware are around exposing it to direct, high heat or scratching it with metal utensils, neither of which are likely in a coffee cup. The super-slim design also means this mug may rattle around in a car cup holder, and the 20-ounce size is too tall to fit under our Nespresso VertuoPlus spout (you’d likely run into the same issue with other single-serve coffee makers ). Finally, sipping from the Zojirushi is slightly more awkward to drink from than many of the other mugs we tried, but it’s a small price to pay for such incredible heat retention and the peace of mind that comes with having a truly leak-free travel mug to use for hot drinks on the go.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes, very Sizes available: 12 ounces , 16 ounces , 20 ounces Warranty: 5 years

This price represents the 12-ounce size. Click through for more options.

The best dishwasher safe travel coffee mug to toss in your bag: Brumate

If you want a spill-proof, leak-proof travel mug that you can also stick in the dishwasher at the end of the day, we recommend the Brumate Nav. This tapered, tumbler-style mug is just as secure as the Zojirushi, though the “BevLock” lid uses a slider to lock a flip-top spout cover into place. And even when it’s not locked, this mug won’t leak; the lock just provides an extra layer of security in case the flip-top were to catch on something strong.

We accidentally turned our testing up to eleven one morning when we dropped this mug—full of piping hot coffee—while trying to shuffle small kids out the door. The lid was closed, but not locked, and we didn’t lose a single drop or burn any toddlers.

The insulated stainless steel body retains heat well (though not as well as the Zojirushi) and we appreciate that the BPA-free clear plastic lid allows us to look inside the cup.

The Brumate doesn’t retain heat nearly as well as the Zojirushi, but if you consume your coffee within an hour or two, it’s more than sufficient. The product description says it will keep hot drinks hot for three hours, but we only experience that kind of heat retention if the mug is full, and stays that way, for the entire three hours. We’d also love to see this mug in a 16-ounce size.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 12 ounces , 22 ounces , and 32 ounces Warranty: Limited lifetime

This price represents the 22-ounce size. Click through for more options.

The best travel coffee mug for the car: Yeti Rambler with Magslide Lid

If you like to take your coffee in the car, you might not need a truly leak-proof mug. But you still need something to prevent sloshing and splashing when you inevitably encounter a pothole or other rough road. And, of course, a travel mug for the car must be able to keep your coffee hot even on brutally-cold mornings.

Yeti’s tumbler-style Rambler mug meets all of our requirements for a car-friendly coffee mug, and then some. The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps your drink hot for hours, the slim base fits comfortably in a car cup holder, and the Magslide spout cover is really easy to open with one hand while driving (it’s easiest if you slide it open while it’s still in the cup holder).

This mug is also incredibly easy to clean as all three parts are dishwasher safe. The little magnetic slider stays securely put until you pop it off from the underside of the lid.

Aside from the fact that it’s not leak-proof, there’s not much we don’t love about this mug. But some coffee drinkers may find the size options limiting. The 10-ounce is perfect for an 8-ounce pour-over, a small latte, or a couple shots of espresso, but the next size up is 20-ounces and that may feel too big if you just want to commute with a cup of coffee. We’d love to see this mug offered in a 14-ounce or 16-ounce size, too.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: No Sizes available: 10 ounces , 20 ounces , 30 ounces Warranty: 5 years

This price represents the 10-ounce size. Click through for more options.

How we tested travel coffee mugs

For weeks we conducted unofficial testing, adding these mugs to our regular coffee-vessel rotation. When it came time for the official testing, we filled all of the mugs with piping hot water and let them sit on our desks for five hours. We then sipped from each to determine if they had retained heat. Next, we put the containers through a stress test, shaking them and tipping them up and down to see if anything leaked. Finally, we took some brisk walks to mimic the frantic conditions of a morning commute, coffee mug in hand. We did not preheat the mugs by filling them with hot water first—we figured the typical user would not do this and we wanted to see how well each mug retained heat without this step.

The Zojirushi is the only insulated vessel we’ve tested that (just barely) fits into the ridiculously slim side pocket of a standard Fjallraven Kanken backpack.

What we looked for

Obviously, a travel mug needs to be spill-proof, but mugs that will travel in a bag also need to be completely leak proof. To test the seal on each mug, we filled them with hot coffee, closed the lids according to the manufacturer’s directions, and shook them vigorously while turned upside down.

One of the most important considerations was temperature retention, so we looked at how well the mug kept coffee hot over the course of a few hours. We lined up the mugs and tasted them side by side after five hours to see which one was the hottest.

If a mug was marketed as leak-proof, we looked at how hard or easy it was to engage its leak-free function. Mugs that are too hard to seal are more likely to malfunction when you’re running out the door in a hurry.

We didn't want a travel coffee mug that was too heavy or unwieldy, as this would make it more difficult to carry around while commuting. We also considered how much you had to maneuver your mouth while drinking.

If a mug wasn’t listed as dishwasher safe, we looked at how easy it was to get all parts—including the nooks and crannies of the lid—thoroughly clean with hand washing .

Yes, these mugs are utilitarian vessels meant for keeping hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold, but let’s not pretend looks don’t matter. These are accessories as much as they are tools.

Personal preference dictates what size coffee cup you’ll need, and if you make yourself an 8-ounce latte every morning, a 20-ounce travel mug is going to be too big. So we looked for mugs that offered a range of sizes—including mugs big enough for those who do like to chug 24 ounces of coffee on the way to work.

For car commuters, a base that’s too wide is a deal breaker. So we looked at whether or not these mugs were slim enough to fit into standard car cup holders.

Other travel coffee mugs we tested

We love this bigger Yeti Rambler mug for most of the reasons we loved our top pick for the car, and it even has a handle and a more leak-resistant (though not leak-proof) lid. But the smallest size is 20-ounces and it’s just big enough that it’s not guaranteed to fit in every car cup holder. Plus, unless you’re planning to hit the road with an entire French press-worth of coffee, a 20- or 30-ounce capacity is overkill for your morning commute.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Some Leakproof: No Sizes available: 20 ounces , 30 ounces

Yeti Rambler Travel Mug with Stronghold Lid

Yeti's most mug-shaped Rambler mug has the best size selection of all of the Rambler mugs and the two smaller sizes (10 ounces and 14 ounces) are stackable. But because it's mug-shaped, it won't fit in a car cup holder. And because it has the Magslider lid, it's not leak proof, either. While this one is generally good for camping, the handle is pretty basic and not very comfortable to hold—especially if the 24-ounce size is full of hot coffee.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: No Leakproof: No Sizes available: 10 ounces, 14 ounces, 24 ounces

Yeti Rambler 24-Ounce Mug

With the addition of the Hotshot lid, Yeti’s versatile, durable insulated Rambler water bottle becomes a (mostly) leak-proof travel mug for coffee, tea, and other hot or cold drinks. The Hotshot lid, when twisted to the open position, allows you to drink from any spot along the rim. We say it’s “mostly” leak-proof though, because if it’s not closed tightly enough, it is possible to shake some drops out of this mug when turned upside down—and we don’t love that it allows for that kind of user error. You can also buy the Hotshot cap separately , which is a great way to get even more out of a Yeti Rambler bottle you already own. Well, as long as you make sure to close it really well.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Most Leakproof: Mostly Sizes available: 12 ounces , 18 ounces

Yeti Rambler with Hotshot Cap

Brumate haș a series of leak-proof coffee mugs with handles called Toddy and these mugs have nearly all the same features we love about the Nav. But the reasonably-sized option ( 16 ounces ) is too wide to fit into any cupholder. The two larger sizes ( 22 ounces and 32 ounces ) have tapered bottoms and actually do fit into many cup holders, but most coffee drinkers will find they're otherwise just too big, in general.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Some sizes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 6 ounces , 22 ounces , 32 ounces

Brumate Toddy

Klean Kanteen is best known for its lightweight stainless steel reusable water bottles (and for tripping up our spell check every damn time) but the brand also makes a very nice double-wall, vacuum-insulated stainless steel travel tumbler. In fact, it’s so nice it’s almost perfect. This mug has excellent heat retention, and the powder-coated body is durable, dishwasher safe, and covered by Klean Kanteen’s lifetime warranty. The tumbler’s wide mouth (wide for Klean Kanteen, anyway) is big enough to fit most ice cubes, and the bottle itself is slender enough to fit most cup holders. Unfortunately, you need to use two hands to open the leak-proof lid, which isn’t always conducive to drinking hot coffee while on the go.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 12 ounces , 16 ounces , 20 ounces

Klean Kanteen Wide Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

Klean Kanteen

We’re generally big fans of Oxo gear but the Oxo Good Grips travel mug we previously tested always leaked a little when tipped upside down. In 2023, we tested a newer model, which has what the brand calls a leak-proof “SimplyClean” lid. The mug comes in an array of pretty colors, all of the parts are dishwasher safe, and we found the lid to be truly leak free when properly assembled. However, the engineering required to get such a good seal is… a lot. Disassembling the lid for cleaning and reassembling it are each three-step processes—and the steps are so unintuitive that instructions, arrows, and numbers are actually embossed in various spots all over the three separate lid components (four if you count the removable gasket). After a few tries, it’s pretty easy to get used to how it all goes together, but coming from a brand that makes such user-friendly products, this leak-proof lid is more complicated than it needs to be. It’s also a little too easy to accidentally remove the entire lid when trying to open the spout.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 16 ounces , 20 ounces

OXO Good Grips Travel Coffee Mug With Leakproof SimplyClean Lid

We like that the short Hydro Flask coffee mug feels like a traditional mug, and this is the only “travel” mug we tested that comes in a 6-ounce size. Like all of Hydro Flask’s insulated products, this mug has great temperature retention and it’s also very durable thanks to solid construction. But because it doesn’t have a leak-proof lid or fit into a car cup holder, it’s definitely more of a “coffee on the front porch” mug or “hot toddy around the campfire” mug than an actual commuting mug. Another drawback? Unlike the brand’s powder-coated water bottles, Hydro Flask mugs are not powder-coated and therefore are not dishwasher safe .

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder : No Leakproof: No Sizes available: 6 ounces , 12 ounces , 24 ounces

Hydro Flask Mug

This 16-ounce stainless steel vacuum-insulated travel mug from Thermos is good, and most people would probably be content using it, but there's also nothing remarkable about it. It didn't keep our coffee hot nearly as long as the Zojirushi and though it has a leak-proof lid, it doesn't lock like the Brumate does. It’s also only available in one size (16 ounces). That said, the underside of the lid does have a built-in hook for tea bags and loose-leaf tea infusers, so if you're a tea drinker who likes to take your hot tea on the go, you’ll like that feature.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder : Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 16 ounces

Thermos Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Tumbler

When we first tested the Fellow Carter mug, we tried the Move model —a gorgeous ceramic-lined thermal mug that does a great job of keeping hot drinks hot. Unfortunately, the twist-off lid required the use of both hands, which kept the Fellow Carter from taking a top spot. When we retested travel mugs in 2023, we were thrilled to find that Fellow had recently released a new model of the Carter mug with a slide-lock lid (the lid can also be purchased separately if you already own a Carter mug). The smooth sliding mechanism makes it easy to open and close the angled lid with one hand, and though it doesn’t actually lock like the Zojirushi does, it is leak-proof when closed. But the angle of the new lid means our testers’ noses got smashed up against it every time we took a drink, and because of a lip around the inside of the body, it’s hard to get every last drop of coffee out of this mug. Additionally, the ceramic-coated stainless steel interior is supposed to keep this mug from holding onto smells, but we found that after just one use, it was nearly impossible to get the coffee smell out the lid —so this isn’t a tumbler we’d want to use interchangeably as a coffee cup and a water cup.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 12 ounces, 16 ounces

Fellow Carter Slide Travel Coffee Mug

We wanted to love this beautiful powder-coated stainless steel tumbler from Kinto, a Japanese housewares brand. And for the most part, we did. The carry handle on the smartly-constructed top can be removed, revealing a thin circular opening that ensures controlled sipping. Liquid doesn’t pour out too quickly (no scalded tongue or ice cubes in the face) and when tightly sealed, it doesn’t leak. You can also remove the entire top of the mug, which makes pouring easy and makes the travel mug easy to clean. However, it’s impossible to open this mug one-handed. That, combined with its high price tag, kept it out of our top picks.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 17 ounces

Kinto Day Off Stainless Steel Tumbler

The MiiR Insulated Travel Tumbler got a lot of oohs and aahs during the unboxing phase of our test. It's sleek, bright, and incredibly comfortable to hold. And when you buy a mug, the brand gifts a portion of revenue to a charity project that's trackable via a code on the bottom of the mug. Hot drinks stay piping hot in this mug, thanks to what the brand calls “Thermo 3D Double Wall Vacuum Insulation Technology.” The locking flip lid is super-secure, too. Unfortunately, the way it’s designed makes it impossible to get the lid completely out of the way when drinking, which resulted in little spots of coffee on our testers’ noses with every single sip.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 12 ounces

MiiR Insulated Travel Tumbler

S’well’s water bottles have a cult-like following so we were excited to try the brand’s sleek and simple vacuum-insulated travel tumbler. It did a good job keeping our coffee warm for a couple hours, but it wasn’t noticeably better than most of the other mugs we tried. The stainless-steel and BPA-free plastic lid is actually leak-proof thanks to an airtight flip-top spout cover. However, it flips easily enough we’d be worried about it catching on something in a bag and opening up by accident. Also, as with the Miir above, our testers’ noses got pressed into the piece that flips back while drinking—especially as we got toward the bottom of our hot and cold drinks. This design flaw is less annoying on this mug than it is on the Miir, but it’s annoying nonetheless.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 16 oz

Sip by Swell Stainless Steel Travel Mug

We can't help but love this vintage-inspired Stanley travel tumbler—but definitely not for coffee. It does a good job of keeping hot drinks hot, but after weeks of testing, we will only ever use it for ice water because following every single sip, a significant amount of whatever liquid is inside accumulates on the top of the supposedly leak-proof trigger-activated spout cover. When that liquid is coffee, you risk leaving little coffee stains everywhere you go. The slim design is really nice to hold and this tumbler fits in every cup holder we tried, but it’s kind of annoying to have to hold down the trigger the entire time you’re drinking.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: No Sizes available: 16 ounces , 20 ounces

Stanley Classic One Hand Vacuum Mug

Ace Hardware

This vacuum-insulated stainless steel travel mug from Ello looks like the kind of old-school speckled enamelware you'd find in your grandparents' house (that’s a good thing). More importantly, it holds heat well and doesn’t leak, though we wouldn’t want to toss it into a bag with any electronics or white clothes. It’s slender enough to fit in some (but not all) car cup holders—and unlike most of the insulated travel tumblers we tested, it has a handle. Technically, this mug is dishwasher safe, but the brand recommends hand-washing, and we’d want to do that anyway since the inside of the handle is lined with cork. There’s also no way to clean with friction under the sliding spout cover. Still, for less than $20, this mug is a good budget pick, especially if you want a cute, leak-proof insulated mug with a handle. But price is often indicative of quality, and while we have yet to encounter any problems, customer reviews indicate issues with long-term durability, and upon closer inspection, we realized we could probably snap off the handle with very little effort. (Intentional damage would not be covered by Ello’s limited lifetime warranty , but accidental breakage might be.) If you want something that will hold up to everyday use, consider investing in something that’s more solidly constructed.

Dishwasher safe: Yes (top rack only, hand wash recommended) Fits in car cup holder: Maybe Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 18 ounces

Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

Like the Ello Campy (above), the Ello Cole is a budget-friendly, vacuum-insulated, stainless steel tumbler with a leak-proof sliding spout cover. It holds heat well and all of the parts are top-rack dishwasher safe, though hand-washing the body is recommended. The Cole also has a cork accent, though on this mug, it’s a “built-in coaster,” which seems rather pointless since a well-insulated mug shouldn’t sweat. While we enjoyed testing this mug, we also worry about long-term durability after reading customer reviews—and the fact that there’s no way to deep clean under the slider lid is concerning, too.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 16 ounces

Ello Cole Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

The West Loop mug with Contigo’s leak-proof Autoseal lid is very leak-proof, thanks to a lock switch on the top. But even after unlocking the sip lid, you still have to push pretty hard on the autoseal button on the side of the lid to open it enough to get a good swig. In theory, it’s a good system, but when you just want to take a drink of coffee, it’s pretty annoying, especially because the button isn’t very responsive; it often feels like you’re not pushing it hard enough. We also had a really hard time getting the coffee smell out of the lid, even after just one use.

Dishwasher safe: Lid only, top rack Fits in car cup holder: Most Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 16 ounces , 20 ounces , 24 ounces

Contigo Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

The Contigo Autoseal Transit Mug has some nice features that set it apart from the West Loop. There’s a permanently-affixed non-slip silicone textured sleeve and a silicone pad on the bottom, too. But it has Contigo’s Autoseal lid, and though the Transit mug’s push-button mechanism is slightly different from the lid on West Loop (and locks and unlocks by twisting the lid), it’s equally annoying to have to hold down a button as you drink.

Dishwasher safe: Lid only, top rack Fits in car cup holder: Most Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 16 ounces

Contigo Autoseal Transit Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Our testers were divided on this collapsible silicone travel “mug.” It’s really more of a coffee cup to travel with than an actual travel mug, as it’s not insulated and the flip-top lid is more leak-resistant than leak-proof. But if you want something that takes up very little space when not in use, this is a decent option. Simply push down the cup from the top and it becomes about the size of a can of tuna. It also comes in lots of pretty colors and all of the parts are super easy to clean in the dishwasher. On the other hand, keeping track of all those parts (especially the support ring) can be kind of annoying.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: No Sizes available: 12 ounces , 16 ounces , 24 ounces

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup With Straw

The takeaway

If you want a travel mug that will keep your coffee piping hot (or your cold brew cold) for hours, the Zojirushi stainless steel mug has the best heat retention capabilities of any mug we tested. It’s also completely leak-proof so you can toss it in your bag without worry. The Brumate Nav , while not as great at retaining heat as the Zojirushi, has an equally-secure lid and the added benefit of being dishwasher-safe. For car commuters, we recommend the tumbler-style Yeti Rambler with the Magslide lid . Though not leak-proof, this dishwasher-safe, vacuum-insulated mug is pretty great at preventing spills while also keeping your morning coffee easily accessible—even while you keep your eyes on the road.

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Best Insulated Cups of 2024

We tried the Stanley Tumbler, Yeti Rambler, and other cups to see which did the best job keeping drinks hot and cold

When you shop through retailer links on our site, we may earn affiliate commissions. 100% of the fees we collect are used to support our nonprofit mission. Learn more .

Yeti, Stanley, Swell, Zojirushi, and Hydra Flask insulated cups

An insulated cup lets you take your favorite drink, hot or cold, anywhere you go. Whether you’re looking to tote around a day’s worth of cold water, or you want to keep your coffee hot all the way to work, the right insulated cup feels like it was designed with your routine, and even you, in mind.

But the worst insulated cups can feel like a piece of over-engineered junk that leaks tepid coffee or room-temperature water onto your lap, and clutters your cupboards, collecting dust.

Best Insulated Cups

Stanley tumbler review, yeti rambler review, how cr tests insulated cups.

These devices go by many names—travel mug, travel cup, or tumbler to name a few. And of course, some brands and models have become all but synonymous with taking your drink to go: The Yeti Rambler, Stanley Tumbler, and Thermos-brand models of any variety are all famous for different reasons, from inventing the category itself to protecting your drink so well even a fire won’t breach its vacuum-insulated walls.

But reputation isn’t everything. In our recent evaluation of insulated cups, we tried out a traditional Thermos, the Stanley Tumbler, and the Yeti Rambler, along with plenty of the competition, to see which insulated cups rose to the top.

“One of the most interesting findings in our testing was that some of the really well-known brands, including Yeti and Starbucks, fell short of the competition,” says Bernie Deitrick, CR’s test engineer in charge of evaluating insulated cups. “In certain cases, we’d find that the mug would be beautifully designed and styled, but would have something like a flimsy plastic lid that would allow the heat to escape, or liquid to spill.” We run our tests to give you data-based comparisons. With something like an insulated travel mug—which will live in your grip day after day—we realize that only you can decide what makes it great, whether that’s a leakproof design or a profile that fits in the slimmest of cup holders. Know that at a minimum, every mug here keeps drinks hot for at least a few hours; we sincerely hope that’s plenty long enough for your commute.

We test how well-insulated cups keep drinks hot or cold, how easy they are to clean, and whether they offer readily replaceable gaskets.

For the temperature tests, we filled each insulated cup with boiling water (212° F) and immediately screwed or pressed each lid back on. Then our testers opened each cup at set intervals to take the temperature of the water inside until it dropped to 140° F—better known as lukewarm.

We also tested each cup to see whether it could keep cold drinks cold as well as hot drinks hot. “We found that cups that were well-insulated did a great job with keeping liquids either hot or cold,” Deitrick says.

To rate how easy cups are to clean, we evaluated each lid, assigning points to those that were easy to clean and subtracting from those that had hard-to-clean nooks or gaskets in their lids that retained soils even after a thorough scrubbing.

Each insulated cup in our test had at least one silicone gasket, and some had as many as three. Over time, they can wear out, and many harbor foul odors. So we removed each gasket that could be removed—some can’t—to see how easy it would be to clean beneath it, and then replaced it. We also noted whether a manufacturer offered replacement gaskets or lids, which will, on occasion, spare you the need to replace an entire cup.

Lastly, we sized up ease of use, which reflects whether or not the cup resists leaking and spilling, how easy it is to open the lid and drink from the cup without it, and how easily the cup will—or won’t—fit into car cup holders.

Paul Hope is a senior multimedia content creator at Consumer Reports and a trained chef. He covers ranges, cooktops, and wall ovens, as well as grills, drills, outdoor power tools, decking, and wood stains. Before joining CR in 2016, he tested kitchen products at Good Housekeeping and covered tools and remodeling for This Old House magazine. You’ll typically find him in his old fixer-upper, engrossed in a DIY project or trying out a new recipe.

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Stanley The Flowstate Quencher H2.0 Tumbler

Hydro flask 20 oz w/ flex sip, contigo byron 2.0 16 oz (2094843), starbucks 16 oz (insulated tumbler), bubba hero xl (20088), s'well traveler (13016-b19-52140), takeya 17 oz (51273), zojirushi 16 oz (she48za), zojirushi 16 oz, yeti rambler 20 oz, s'well commuter 16 oz, thermos stainless king 16 oz.

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The 12 Very Best Travel Mugs

Cut back on waste and enjoy a better cup of coffee..

When I walk into any coffee shop, I see at least a handful of people asking for their morning brew to be poured into their own reusable vessel instead of something disposable. And trust me: Baristas are more than happy to oblige. Every single one of the pros I talked to for this story said that not only are ceramic, glass, and stainless-steel options better for the environment, but they actually make your coffee tastier than paper or plastic. They’re also more convenient — I make my coffee and tea at home the vast majority of the time, but now, I pour it into one of the few reusable mugs I tested for this story whenever I want to take it with me on the go. Not only does that save money, but it keeps my drink hot or cold for longer. And I can sip some, throw it in my bag , and save the rest for later.

All the travel mugs on this list have temperature retention for at least a few hours, with the exception of three, which I’ve noted and explained. While all of them work well, if you’re going to invest in this long-term good habit, you want to find the one that best fits your coffee habits and, of course, aesthetic preference. Read on to help determine which reusable cup, mug, or tumbler is best for you. And if you’re in need of a water bottle , I’ve got you covered there, too.

Update on July 26, 2024: Added an image of the KeepCup in use; updated prices and checked stock for all products.

What we’re looking for

Eight or 12 ounces is on the smaller side; both are good for standard cappuccinos or cortados or if you don’t consume all that much coffee or tea. Twenty ounces is pretty big, useful if you’ll be toting your drink around all day without the chance for refills. And then, of course, 16 ounces is somewhere in between.

The type of lid on your travel mug can make a fairly big difference in how you experience drinking. Some have bigger openings, some smaller. Some snap shut; others twist open and close. This can come down to personal preference — meaning the literal mouthfeel of each one. But it’s also important to consider when and how you’ll be using your travel mug, whether that’s commuting by train or car, sitting at a desk, or running errands around your neighborhood.

How to clean

Some travel mugs on this list are dishwasher safe; others need to be cleaned by hand. Take note if that’s an important factor for you.

Best travel mug overall

Volume: 12 to 20 ounces | Lid type: Flip lid | How to clean: Dishwasher safe

The MiiR Travel Tumbler is my personal favorite travel mug. I own the smallest size (12 ounces) and love the compact build and sleek shape. I find the grip itself to be secure, too, and slim enough to fit in one hand. The whole lid screws on tight; I’ve never experienced any leaking. It’s especially easy and comfortable to sip from, thanks to the small piece on the lid that flips up and reveals a hole that allows a stream steady enough to get a good mouthful but not so wide open that it spills when I tilt the mug back. This is even the case with iced coffee; the cubes never obstruct the opening or cause uneven flow (though if you mainly drink it this way, one of the larger sizes might be a better choice).

The temperature retention is fantastic, too; I’ve had coffee stay hot — not just warm, but piping — for six hours. Jerad Morrison, co-founder and co-CEO of Sightglass Coffee in San Francisco, explains that this is thanks to the double-walled interior, which also means it’s never too hot or too cold to hold on the outside. “It’s stainless steel, so it washes really easily,” Morrison says, “and doesn’t hold on to any flavors.” Will Pratt, founder and owner of Tandem Coffee Roasters in Portland, Maine, agrees that its material makes it a breeze to clean — and that if you have one, you can even just throw it in the dishwasher. “Coffee has sticky oils that leave residue, and there’s nothing worse than a mug that holds that flavor over time,” he says. The final bonus, as mentioned by Morisson, is that it fits into cup holders in both cars and bikes, which “is not always the case.”

Michael Philips, director of content and copy at Blue Bottle , recommends Miir’s standard tumbler . Like the travel model above, the body is made from the same material, slightly tapered towards the bottom, so it still feels good in the hand and fits in cup holders, Philips says. The clear lid “gives you a chance to see what you’re drinking,” he says, and “does a great job stopping sloshes from getting out and onto your hands.”

Best travel mug for cappuccinos

Volume: 12 and 16 ounces | Lid type: Flip lid | How to clean: Hand-wash only

KeepCup was also mentioned by many of our experts, and in my own testing, I liked it, too. The lid here functions pretty much the same as the MiiR, which means you can sip from the hole or take the whole thing off. Both make for comfortable sipping. But I will note: while there’s a small silicone tag that fits into the sip hole to seal it, it isn’t perfectly leak-proof, meaning this isn’t a mug I would casually throw in my bag. But it’s very nice for taking on walks or bringing coffee-shop brew home.

I was initially nervous the glass would be delicate, but it’s thick and feels sturdy, with a wide cork ring around the perimeter so I can grip without my fingers getting too hot. The glass body also means that there’s not as much heat retention going on as some of the others. (And for Ryan Fisher, director of coffee and roasting at GoodBoyBob Coffee in Santa Monica, California, that’s actually a benefit instead of a problem: The glass gets his coffee to the exact temperature he likes quickly.)

KeepCup was also praised by coffee pros who say its size and shape works well on their side of the counter, too. The small glass vessels were designed by two former baristas in Melbourne, Australia, making it easier for people like Joanna Lareau, coffee manager at Stumptown , and Samya Said, former barista training manager at Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea , to do their jobs. Both Lareau and Said say that having a wide mouth and inner slope allows baristas to pour amazing coffee art. Lareau also notes that the small size fits cortados and cappuccinos well. “Some reusable cups are so big they don’t fit into the espresso machine,” she says.

Best travel mug for iced coffee

Volume: 8, 12, and 16 ounces | Lid type: Twist-off lid | How to clean: Hand-wash only

Fellow is generally a favorite brand among industry folks (I’m a big fan of their electric kettle in particular). As with all their products, the travel mug has a streamlined look. Even though you can’t throw it in the dishwasher, Morrison says the stainless steel interior makes it easy to clean. And it retains hot and cold temperatures with the best of them. But the coolest feature of all? “There’s a small guard insert at the top,” Morrison says, “so if you’re drinking iced coffee, the cubes don’t fall back onto your face when you get towards the bottom.”

Best travel mug for commuting

Volume: 12 and 16 ounces | Lid type: Flip lid | How to clean: Hand-wash recommended

The Zojirushi, which was also a top pick for reusable water bottles , comes with a lot of the same perks as many others on this list — namely fantastic temperature control and a slim, sleek, and lightweight body. We’ve been recommending it since 2016 in large part because the water bottle keeps drinks at the same temperature as they were when you initially filled it. “One time, I made coffee early one winter morning and brought it to work in my Zojirushi. When I got to the office after walking through freezing temperatures and snow, the coffee was too hot,” wrote Laura Perciasepe in her review of this Japanese mug . “I put an ice cube in it like a philistine.”

But according to tea consultant Sara Shacket , its most impressive quality is that it’s completely airtight. “It really doesn’t leak,” she says. “I’ve used it during many commutes on the subway, thrown in my bag, and was never worried. Same if I was hiking on a trip. It could be upside-down and it wouldn’t leak.” Cookbook author and recipe developer Carla Lalli Music , who owns multiple Zojirushi models, echoes this sentiment, saying, “It has the most bustproof cap in the biz.” Ilana Glazer likes her so much, she brings it onstage, in large part because it’s “so sleek in its design and so quick to open and close.”

Best travel mug with a handle

Volume: 10 to 24 ounces | Lid type: Slide lid | How to clean: Dishwasher safe

If you prefer a mug with a handle, I recommend this Yeti option. Steven Sadoff, founder of New York City’s Ground Support , has many travel mugs (including the MiiR and the Fellow above), but he finds the handle on this one particularly convenient when he’s driving because even though it doesn’t fit in a cup holder, he can easily grab it and sip with control. “It makes for a pretty comfortable drinking experience,” he says, “especially as you get close to the end of your coffee.” The same applies when he meets friends for a coffee outside because “you can gesticulate wildly without spilling.” Aside from the handle, he appreciates that the mug seals incredibly tightly, keeps liquid hot for hours, and is dishwasher safe. Rhiannon Giddens is another fan , saying that Yeti bottles keep liquid “hot or cold for a millennia.”

Best less expensive travel mug with a handle

Volume: 8 to 20 ounces | Lid type: Slide lid | How to clean: Hand-wash recommended

MiiR also makes a sweet travel mug that mimics an actual handled mug, and it also came recommended by multiple experts. Em Orendorff, former manager at Intelligentsia Coffee , likes it because “it’s shaped just like the mugs we use in the café (short and wide with a great handle), so it’s a breeze for baristas to make your drink in it as well as easy to clean and to drink out of.” Caleb Chauncey, former barista at East Pole Coffee Co. in Atlanta, likes that its insulated interior keeps drinks warm or cold for long periods of time, and it keeps a consistent temperature on the outside too. “It won’t burn your hand if you have a hot beverage inside, and it won’t sweat when you have a cold one,” he says. To me, it seems like the perfect camping companion. It’s also worth noting that it comes in the largest range of sizes of any of the mugs we’ve listed.

Best travel mug with a replaceable lid

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Wide Mouth Bottle

Volume: 12 to 20 ounces | Lid type: Twist-off lid or sip lid | How to clean: Dishwasher safe

Hydro Flask is another go-to for water (in fact, I named it our best-overall bottle). Here, the Flex Sip lid makes it especially easy to use on the go, keeping your coffee contained as you drink. Plus you can dangle the mug with one finger from the looped handle. If you already own a Hydro Flask, you can buy the lid separately and just replace your old one. The company says it’s dishwasher safe, but handwashing is recommended — though my boyfriend and I have been putting our own Hydro Flasks in the dishwasher for months now, and there hasn’t been any damage.

Best no-leak travel mug

Volume: 12 and 17 ounces | Lid type: Screw top double lid | How to clean: Handwash recommended

This tumbler has an extra-secure double-lid system to prevent leaks. You take both lids off to fill the bottle, then twist in the first one that has a few holes around the perimeter to sip from, and then add the fully closed screw top over that. Strategist writer Jeremy Rellosa loves this feature, he says, because there are no small flip-up or sliding parts that can open by accident. Once, he had to stuff it into his backpack while traveling and thought he was going to open it to find coffee stains on his clothes , but everything inside stayed clean and dry. Plus, “the actual lid where you drink from and makes contact with your lips never touches the exterior of your bag, or wherever you’re stashing it,” Rellosa says. Julia Shaw, director of marketing at NYC’s Devoción Coffee , is another fan. She says the bottle keeps liquid hot or cold for a long time and has an “elegant” aesthetic appeal.

Best travel mug with open hole lid

Volume: 8.5 and 12 ounces | Lid type: Sip lid | How to clean: Dishwasher safe

Kinto’s To-Go Tumbler has a very small but always-open sip hole, which means it’s best suited for when you’re sitting at a desk or on a walk holding the tumbler in your hand. This means your drink will stay hot for about an hour and cold for several hours, but it’s not going to retain its temperature all day long. That said, it’s still a favorite of a couple of our experts. For Haley Boyd , a designer and sustainability enthusiast, this is mostly because of the aesthetic. “It’s an attractive, simple shape in a solid color without a huge logo, which is surprisingly hard to find,” she says. But for Noah McKeown, general manager at Go Get Em Tiger in Los Angeles, who uses his nearly every day, it’s more than just looks. “I like the small-hole sip lid,” he says. “I think the flow-out of it is really nice. It never spills, but you still get a lot of the coffee aromatics out of it.”

Best customizable travel mug

Volume: 12 and 16 ounces | Lid type: Button lid or straw lid | How to clean: Dishwasher safe

Not only does this ceramic-lined mug hit the mark on functionality, but it allows you to customize way beyond size. You choose between a lid with a button-release or a built-in straw and then pick from a bunch of pretty, muted tones, either making it monochrome or designing it so that the body, lid, and button are all different colors.

It’s super effective, too. I tested a button-release version: While you unscrew the lid fully to fill the vessel, you press down on a circle flush with the top that opens another much smaller hole to sip from. This releases a slow and steady stream of liquid when you tip the mug back. Even when I was walking around with it, I never had to readjust how I was holding or maneuvering it, and no amount of turning it upside down or jostling led to any leaking. And the temperature retention (for both hot and cold drinks) is great — my coffee stays hot for about four hours, and last summer, I could hear ice clinking around after that same amount of time when I was out and about on a hot day.

Best glass travel mug for brewing tea

Volume: 7 ounces | Lid type: Twist-off lid | How to clean: Dishwasher safe

Often, tea-brewing tumblers have a metal insert that’s filled with tea leaves and steeped in water. That means that once the appropriate amount of time has passed, you either have to remove the strainer — which can be impractical, if you’re on the go — or just leave the leaves inside, which can cause your drink to turn bitter. But not with this tumbler. Daniela Titiun, tea sommelier and author of Tea Cachai , tried many models before landing on the Oneisall, which she says has “the smartest system.” It functions by dividing the vessel in half with a filter. One side houses the leaves; the other, the water. This allows you to turn the bottle upside down to infuse and then right side up when you’re ready to unscrew and sip. (There’s a helpful video on the product page.) While the glass means this mug is non-insulating, the double walls help retain heat for about an hour, and at only seven ounces, it should be easy to finish by then. Plus, as Titiun notes, you can easily re-brew for a second time with the same leaves.

Best stainless-steel travel mug for brewing tea

Volume: 16 ounces | Lid type: Sip lid | How to clean: Hand-wash recommended

Like the model above, this travel mug brews tea without an infuser sitting in your water — but instead of the flip method, it has a more traditional tea press that you push down once the steep time is over (similar to a French press ). The grip is comfortable, so I often take it with me on late-afternoon walks, and the twist-off lid is extremely tight. It hasn’t ever spilled, even when jostled in my tote bag . There are small sip holes around the perimeter of the top of the infuser so you can drink from any angle, all while the flow of liquid is slow and controlled. Finally, because of the stainless-steel insulation, it stays at temperature for hours; when I brew it before I go upstairs for the evening, it’s still hot when I drink from it before bed.

Some more travel vessels we’ve written about

Our experts

• Haley Boyd , designer and sustainability enthusiast • Caleb Chauncey, former barista at East Pole Coffee Co. • Ryan Fisher, director of coffee and roasting at GoodBoyBob Coffee • Joanna Lareau, coffee manager at Stumptown • Noah McKeown, general manager at Go Get Em Tiger • Jerad Morrison, co-founder and co-CEO of Sightglass Coffee • Carla Lalli Music , cookbook author and recipe developer • Em Orendorff, former manager at Intelligentsia Coffee • Will Pratt, founder and owner of Tandem Coffee Roasters • Jeremy Rellosa , Strategist writer • Steven Sadoff, founder of New York City’s Ground Support • Samya Said, former barista training manager at Fairgrounds Coffee & Tea • Sara Shacket , tea consultant • Julia Shaw, director of marketing at Devoción Coffee • Daniela Titiun, tea sommelier and writer of Tea Cachai

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The Best Travel Mugs to Keep Drinks Hot or Cold

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Best Overall Hydro Flask Coffee Mug With Flex Sip Lid (16 Ounce) Read more

A Good Wide-Mouth Bottle Klean Kanteen TKWide Insulated Mug (16 Ounce) Read more

Hand holding up a blue mug with silver rim in front of an open door with a lawn in the distance

A Great Mug Hydro Flask Coffee Mug (12 Ounce) Read more

Camp Classic Ello Campy Travel Mug (16 Ounce) Read more

One way to quickly ruin a morning is to take a sip from your mug expecting hot coffee or tea only to be met with freezing-cold liquid. Or, on the flip side, desperately wanting ice cold water only to find it warm. For those moments, you need an insulated travel mug. There are tons of stainless steel mugs, bottles, and tumblers on the market. These are our favorites.

We tested each bottle with both cold water and hot coffee, sitting outside in indirect sunlight and inside in the AC. During testing, none of the bottles has failed to roughly match up to their claims of how long they'd keep cold liquids cold and hot liquids hot. It's rare to run across an insulated bottle that's a total failure at doing that these days, but it's also rare to find one that truly stands out. Rather, I've noticed the features that tend to make or break a bottle are leak-proofing, exterior coating, and the cap. While all these bottles can keep cold drinks at temperature, you may prefer getting a dedicated insulated water bottle if that's all you need.

Be sure to check out our guides to the Best Coffee Subscriptions , Best Coffee Grinders , Best Espresso Machines , Best Portable Coffee Makers , Best AeroPress Coffee Makers , and How to Make Better Coffee at Home .

Updated June 2024: We made the Hydro Flask mug a top pick and added Owala’s SmoothSip and W&P’s Porter to the honorable mentions. We've also moved all bottles that use lead soldering to the avoid section and updated prices and links throughout.

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A Note on Lead Soldering

Since we first started testing water bottles and coffee tumblers, it's come to light that some brands use lead soldering to seal their insulated bottles. The lead is on the bottom of the bottles encased in stainless steel. While it's unlikely it would become exposed, we think it's an unnecessary risk given that enough of our favorite brands use other methods to seal their bottles. We've noted which brands have confirmed they use lead in our “avoid” section below and will keep this guide updated as we hear from the others.

Best Overall

Hydro Flask’s powder coating is one of the toughest I have come across on a beverage container. Whenever I can foresee some serious abuse happening to a coffee mug on a trip, I take a Hydro Flask. I’ve yet to dent or scratch one through routine carelessness over the past four years. Without a cupholder in my car, my Hydro Flask lived on the floorboards, rolling and crashing around with every maneuver, and it still held up. The pebbled texture is grippy, so you're less likely to fumble it if your hands get wet or greasy.

A Good Wide-Mouth Bottle

Narrow openings are fine for water, in my opinion, but for hot beverages, I like having a wider gap so I can take a big gulp. I'm less likely to burn my mouth on hot drinks when I can let them cool off through a bigger opening, too. The TKWide’s Cafe Cap is more like drinking from a regular to-go coffee cup, rather than a water bottle.

All the colors have matte powder-coated finishes, which are more scratch-resistant than the brand’s smooth powder-coated finishes. That said, I haven’t found them to be as tough as Hydro Flask’s powder coating, and the uncoated stainless-steel ring on the bottom of the mug is pretty easy to scuff up.

A Great Mug

If you're commuting or hiking, you want a bottle that's not going to leak on you. But if you're camping and mostly stationary, drinking coffee around a fire or at the lake, a nice mug with a handle is a great option. Hydro Flask's is affordable, with its signature tough powder-coating that's nearly impossible to scratch.

The lid has a slider so you can open it to sip and then close it to keep it hot even longer and to avoid any woodsy bugs from accidentally landing inside. It's not leak-proof, but it's not going to drip on you as you sip either. If you prefer to go sans-lid, it has a thin stainless steel rim that's comfortable to drink from. The brand also has great colors across all its options.

Camp Classic

This camp cup is awfully charming, harkening back to the classic blue, enameled camp cups that ooze 20th-century Americana. Like all the tumblers on this list, it’s vacuum-insulated to keep hot drinks hot and cold ones cold. Its screw-on plastic lid, with a sliding lever for sipping, is leak-proof enough. If you leave it upside down for more than a few seconds or shake it, it’ll drip, but I couldn’t get it to leak by knocking it onto its side. The handle is plastic to avoid conducting heat from hot contents, and the inner part of the handle is lined in cork. The Campy isn’t enameled—it’s just painted to look like it—but it pulls off the effect well.

For Coffee Purists

Instead of a tiny sippy hole, the Carter’s screw-on cap reveals a wide tumbler that lets you breathe in your coffee’s aromas as you drink. The opening is 69 millimeters wide, so you can use most manual coffee brewers, such as an AeroPress or Hario pour-over , directly on it. That’s too wide for many cars’ cup holders, but it’s plenty stable, and you won’t have to worry about tipping it over on a desk. My average-size hands had no issues, but some buyers with smaller hands might find it difficult or uncomfortable to hold.

The interior is ceramic-coated, so you don’t get any metallic flavors, and the thin metal lip is curved like a cabernet glass. Its textured matte exterior coating is tough and held up as well as the mighty Hydro Flask’s coating. It's been completely spill-proof too. You should have no concerns throwing it into your laptop bag completely full.

A Classy Paper Cup Replacement

The Brew Cork is greater than the sum of its parts. This double-walled, insulated mug is meant to replicate and replace paper coffee shop cups. It’s fun to drink out of. Many other tumblers’ lid openings are blocky or mash your nose, but the KeepCup is ergonomically on point. It’s not the best for road trips, nor the best for keeping a ton of coffee hot for hours, but I highly recommend the LongPlay if all you want is a reusable cup to cut down on single-use waste and keep your drink warm long enough for you to actually drink it. That said, the lid is a bit dribbly. While the interior and lip are glass—no metallic off-tastes here—the exterior shell below the rubber grip is plastic.

Tumblers and travel mugs are generally designed for you to pour your chosen beverage into, but what if you just want to put a can in there? These kinds of insulated drink holders are particularly useful when I'm out and about, drinking a canned soda or beer, and want it to stay cool in the summer heat.

Hydro Flask shines here too. Not only can you put the can directly into the drink holder, but you can also pour it into the Hydro Flask and drink directly out of it, if you wish. Just remove the collar, and now you've got a handsome, stainless steel rim to sip from. The collar fits over the bottom of the can to stabilize it too, so you won't lose it. This is the 12-fluid-ounce version that fits a standard beer, soda, juice, or wine can. There's also a 16-fluid-ounce Tallboy Cooler Cup for $28 if you're feeling particularly thirsty.

Honorable Mentions

We've run through many travel mugs, and not all of them are winners. These are a few we like, just not as much as the ones above.

KeepCup Thermal for $32 : This is the answer to those who like the paper-cup-imitating feel. It shares the Brew Cork's slightly dribbly lid, although it loses some of the novelty of that one's glass construction.
Oxo Good Grips Thermal Mug for $30 : We reviewed this bottle in 2022 and liked its solid build and dishwasher-friendliness, but since it's older it now fluctuates in and out of stock.
Owala SmoothSip for $25 : We love Owala water bottles and enjoyed the SmoothSip nearly as much. It kept coffee warm all afternoon and, despite the lid having an open spout for easy drinking, coffee didn't slosh out while I walked around. Don't throw it in a bag, but it should be fine in the car. The simple lid makes it easy to clean too.
W&P Porter Insulated Bottle for $35 : W&P has become a WIRED favorite, thanks to its many eco-friendly reusable products . We loved its insulated bottle too, which has a ceramic coating if you dislike drinking directly from steel. It also has a silicone sleeve for more grip and softness. The two terrazzo colors are particularly pretty, with a speckled, textured sleeve. It's also dishwasher safe and usually dips below $35 on Amazon.
REI Co-op Camp Mug for $23 : There are getting to be an awful lot of insulated camp mugs in this basic style on the market, and REI's stainless steel cup is a perfectly fine option that doesn't particularly stand out. The exterior coating was tough enough to show no scratches, even after knocking it over a few times outside.
Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler for $35 : If you like drinking both cold and hot drinks from a straw, Hydro Flask makes a great tumbler akin to the Stanley shape without the lead . It comes with the same bomb-proof powder coating of other Hydro Flasks that resists scratches and chips very well.
GSI Outdoors Glacier 15-Fluid-Ounce Camp Cup for $20 : It's not too easy to find at retailers, and when you do, they tend to be available in just a few colors and go in and out of stock. This cup is awfully simple with an incredibly basic lid, but it's more than a little endearing, particularly in the "blue speckle" color that imitates classic enameled camp cups.
Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug for $29 : The lid locks to avoid accidental spillage, and I once accidentally left hot tea in it for 18 hours and found it still hot when I opened it again. It’s also small enough to fit in my jacket pocket on chilly morning walks. It’s not my preferred mug for daily use, simply because the lid has three separate parts—a mouthpiece, a gasket, and a lid—that are deeply ridged and hard to clean.
Purist Mover for $48 : The Purist has a thin layer of glass over the interior of the Mover, which removes the possibility of taste transfer from previous drinks. We didn’t experience leaks from the Element top, but a high number of customers have reported their Purist lids leaking over time.
S'well Traveler Tumbler for $30 : S’well boasts that its tumblers are triple-walled, but we didn't find it kept beverages hotter than its double-walled competitors. What sets the brand apart is its designs, from plain colors to elaborate patterns like blue marble and wood.

a Beast stainless steel travel mug next to it's packaging

Avoid These Travel Mugs

We’ve tested a great many tumblers, and not all are winners. These aren't anywhere near as good as our picks above.

Greens Steel Beast 20-Ounce Insulated Tumbler for $21 : The Beast tumbler has over 70,000 positive reviews on Amazon, but we found the rubber seal around the lid easily comes out of place. That meant it leaked like a sieve.
Toaks Titanium Double Wall 450ML Cup for $40: More often than not, we champion Toaks gear as an affordable source of titanium camp cookware. But this mug is $12 more than the Hydro Flask mug we recommend above, and its finishing is rougher.
GSI Outdoors MicroLite 500 Flip for $30 : The actual bottle isn't bad, but the lid is overly complex to clean and gimmicky. Under the button-activated, flip-up lid there's a contoured bowl that you drink from, as if somebody cut the top half off a plastic cup. It didn't do anything that just drinking from an open bottle couldn't do, and it tended to collect stray water droplets after I was done drinking. There's a twist-off lid version that does away with the gimmicky cap, but the carry strap is narrow and not as robust as we'd have liked.

The following mugs aren't bad options—some are past favorites— but these brands have confirmed the use of lead soldering to seal their insulated mugs. Enough brands use other sealing methods that it feels unnecessary. We haven't heard from every brand on this list, but we'll keep it updated as we do.

Miir Climate+ for $25 : We liked that the Climate+ resembles a cup more than a bottle and it has a tough powder-coated finish. The lid is also made from recycled plastic and the insulation uses 25 percent less steel than traditional insulated mugs. We also liked Miir's Flip Traveler for $28 and Camp Cup for $28 . Both were leak-free and tough.
Stanley Classic Vacuum Pint for $26 : Stanley has been around forever and we liked the pebbled exterier reminiscent of classic flasks. There's also a few extra ounces to accommodate foam (or splashing hot coffee).
Contigo Luxe Autoseal for $36 : Contigo's bottle has a lock to prevent leaks, which worked remarkably well. Despite some reviews saying the lid got too hot, we found it barely got lukewarm even while holding scorching, molten coffee.
Yeti Rambler Stackable Cup for $30 : Yeti has a durable powder coating, so it's among the toughest options. We also liked this model is stackable, so you can keep a few in your pantry without taking up much room.
OtterBox Elevation for $30 : The Elevation has a copper lining that the company says helps better maintain your beverage’s perfect temperature, although we saw no noticeable difference.

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What to Buy

The Best Travel Coffee Mugs, According to Our Tests

We tested more than 25 top-rated picks to find the best spill-proof, stylish, and durable mugs.

In This Article

Our Top Picks

How We Tested Travel Coffee Mugs

Our favorite travel coffee mug, factors to consider, other travel coffee mugs we tested, our expertise.

Food & Wine / Will Dickey

There’s nothing like sipping a freshly brewed coffee from your favorite espresso machine or cold brew coffee maker first thing in the morning — if you have the luxury to savor that cup before your day gets busy. For those of us with little to no time to spare, a travel coffee mug is essential. You may not be able to drink your coffee while relaxing in your favorite local coffee shop, but you will have super-hot or ice-cold coffee to fuel your day.

The problem is finding the best travel coffee mug that keeps the flavor of your go-to coffee intact without any metallic aftertaste. Paper and plastic cups don’t come close to the efficiency, sustainability, and temperature control a durable travel coffee mug offers. We tested more than 25 travel coffee mugs, paying close attention to insulation, design, and size. We also spoke to some die-hard coffee drinkers to get their expert opinions on the best travel coffee mugs, from ceramic mugs to stainless steel tumblers. Read on to discover our editor-tested and approved picks.

Best Overall

Yeti rambler 20 oz tumbler.

At 20 ounces, it’s large enough to hold enough coffee or other beverages to last all day long, with tough insulation to keep the temperature just right.

Be careful: the MagSlider lid isn’t leakproof.

Durability, size, and next-level insulation characterize the Yeti Rambler Tumbler. It can handle all environments, from your office to your car, pool chair, or camping tent. Made from kitchen-grade, rust-resistant stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation, your beverage will remain at the exact temperature you desire (whether hot or cold) for hours.

The Rambler can take a tumble with its hardy construction, and the exterior won’t chip or fade from years of use. However, during an upside-down leak test, we noted that the mug dripped a bit, so they wouldn’t leave it loose in a bag. The magnet on the MagSlider Lid adds an extra layer of protection to keep heat or cold from escaping.

During testing, we also noted the Rambler’s long-lasting cool insulation, staying under 40°F for about 10 hours. It won’t sweat either, and if you spend a decent amount of time in the car, you can rest easy knowing it fits in most cup holders. (We've also weighed in on the Stanley vs. Yeti debate , if you're curious!) Once you’re done for the day, you can throw it in the dishwasher to be ready for tomorrow.

Volume: 20 ounces | Lid type: Twist-on, twist-off lid | Dishwasher safe: Yes

Food & Wine / Will Dickey

Ello Campy Travel Mug

This mug is a great size, features a stylish design, offers stellar hot and cold insulation, and is truly leakproof — all for under $20.

While the lid is dishwasher-safe, the body should be hand-washed.

Some of the coolest travel tumblers around, Ello products have great heat retention to keep things piping hot for hours. We especially love the Campy Stainless Steel Mug, which is great for traveling because it didn't leak a single drop during testing. It also performed very well for cold insulation, with under-40° temperatures that lasted for more than 10 hours.

Pair those marks with the mug’s stylish design and comfortable cork handle, and you’ve got a perfect formula for an all-around great mug. Hikes, commutes, working from home or at the office, picnics — we can't envision a scenario where this mug wouldn't be useful. And under $20, it can't be beaten for value.

Volume: 18 ounces | Lid type: Twist-on, twist-off lid | Dishwasher-safe: Lid is dishwasher-safe, body is not

Food & Wine / Fran Sales

Best Leakproof

Contigo autoseal west loop vacuum.

This mug kept drinks insulated for nearly two days, outperforming competing options.

You might want to pass if you're only looking for a travel mug that's good for cold beverages.

Contigo's leak-proof mug is ideal for anyone who takes their beverages on the go, especially hot drinks. It fits in cup holders, it keeps drinks insulated for hours, and it's easy to use with just one hand if you're driving or holding something in the other.

We loved this mug’s Autoseal feature, where the snap seal top pops open with the click of a button. It can even help you avoid spilling your drink. Functionally, it’s comfortable to hold, with a center groove that lends itself nicely to wrapping your hand around. The downside is there’s no handle or a texture to boost grip, though the color coating on the outside provides a light layer of non-slip.

Volume: 20 ounces | Lid type: Pop-off lid | Dishwasher-safe: Lid is dishwasher-safe, body is not

Food & Wine / Bailey Fink

Best Wide Travel Mug

Fellow carter everywhere mug.

This mug feels high-end and offers incredible insulation abilities, keeping drinks hot for hours.

Since it doesn't fit in a cup holder, this is not a good option if you like to sip while you drive.

For a reliable and secure travel mug with exceptional insulation abilities, we recommend the Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug. During our tests, we noted that the lid screwed on and off easily, creating a tight seal when shut — meaning no liquid was spilled when the mug was placed upside-down, on its side, or even shaken.

Insulation-wise, this mug performed very well with both cold and hot liquids. For cold drinks, the ice didn't melt at all the following day. For hot drinks, the temperature dropped very slowly. Plus, the ceramic interior helped their drinks taste better and ensured the mug didn’t absorb residual odors after washing. Our only qualm was the overall size of this mug, as its wide base does not fit in standard car cupholders. If you're looking for a slimmer model, we highly recommend the Fellow Carter Move Mug , which comes in three sizes: 8, 12, and 16 ounces. We've tested the 12-ounce option and love it so much that bring it with us whenever we travel.

Volume: 16 ounces | Lid type: Twist-on, twist-off lid | Dishwasher-safe: No

Food & Wine / Bridget Degnan

Best Splurge

Kinto day off tumbler.

It provides excellent hot and cold insulation, is leakproof, and seals incredibly well, thanks to its twist-on cap.

This mug is not dishwasher-safe.

This high-end travel mug looks as good as it functions. It aced our usability and leakproof tests: It has a screw-on cap that ensures every drop of liquid stays in the mug (although we noted that you need to make sure you screw on both pieces very well or else they will leak). The kinto's slim body is comfortable to hold. We enjoyed drinking from the circular opening of the mug, which allowed us to sip from any angle, though we noted that the flow was a bit fast.

The cap keeps the mouth area covered, so no need to worry about it coming into contact with germs as it rolls around inside your bag. Plus, it's versatile enough to use for either coffee or water, as it keeps both hot and cold drinks at your desired temperature for long periods. While this tumbler is on the pricier side, if you want an aesthetically pleasing travel mug that works, we say this one is worth it. The compact size, exceptional insulation, and smart, leakproof lid design make this an all-around standout.

Volume: 17 ounces | Lid type: Twist-on, twist-off lid | Dishwasher-safe: No

Best for Car Travel

Bubba envy insulated tumbler.

This is the ideal iced or hot drink container for the car.

This mug is not leakproof.

If you’re looking for a reliable, extra-large travel mug, the Bubba Straw Envy Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Tumbler might be your best bet. The removable straw is nice for iced coffee, and the size is ideal for a car cup holder. The mug is spill-proof in that if you knock it over, the lid won't pop off — but the liquid will come out of the mug. While it's comfortable to hold, the lack of leak protection will certainly make a mess even if it's tipped, let alone knocked over or turned upside down. It should remain upright in your hand or a cup holder only.

Despite that, this mug has incredible insulation and keeps liquid cold for nearly two days. The hot water remained hot for more than three hours and even kept warm until the following day, at 22 hours. We found the insulation abilities of this mug to be surprisingly unmatched, performing better than mugs twice or three times the price. We even poured an iced coffee to drive down to the beach one morning, and on the drive home, the remaining coffee was still ice-cold. Case in point: This is the ideal iced or hot drink container for the car.

Volume: 24 ounces | Lid type: Pop-off lid | Dishwasher-safe: No

Food & Wine / Megan Soll

Best Insulated

Hydro flask wide mouth flex sip lid bottle.

We gave this tumbler a perfect score across all four categories, including size, design, insulation, and value.

It’s difficult to open this mug with one hand.

Another great name in insulated and no-sweating drinkware tech, the Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler earned a perfect score. This large mug can carry hot or cold coffee or tea in any environment for extended periods — and looks good in the process. Made from stainless steel, it’s comfortable to hold, while the wide mouth facilitates easy access to add liquids and ice. On the go, the handle and exterior texture make it simple to grip.

The lid can be sealed completely by twisting to prevent leakage, and it even has a red color marking inside to easily indicate if it’s fully closed. During testing, we noted that the lid’s super-tight seal never leaked, despite placing the mug upside-down and on its side. Given its sleek design and high performance, we recommend this mug for any type of liquid, hot or cold.

We tested 27 popular, top-rated travel coffee mugs via an initial 4-week testing period and through long-term testing to collect further insights from editors after months of continued use.

For 4 weeks, we provided feedback on each travel coffee mug’s sealing capabilities, cold insulation performance, hot insulation performance, and ease of cleaning. In addition to its general design observations, we also paid close attention to insulation, size, and value.
In our long-term testing, we paid attention to each mug's durability and ability to withstand daily bumps, scratches, and dishwashing cycles. We also observed any changes in each travel coffee mug's design, observing how well the thermos kept our coffee hot or cold or any changes in the effectiveness of the leak-proof or spill-proof seal over time.
Overall, we evaluated each mug based on how often we reached for it in our daily lives and if we'd recommend it over others we've tested.

Thanks to its durability, size, and next-level insulation, the Yeti Rambler earned the top spot on our list of best travel coffee mugs. During testing, we found the Yeti to work great in virtually any environment, keeping our beverage at the exact desired temperature for up to 10 hours.

Travel coffee mugs are usually made of either metal or ceramic, with tight-fitting lids, and some can be vacuum insulated. Your choice of material should take into account how you intend to use the mug, how long you need your coffee to stay hot, and how you drink out of it.

Choosing the right size of travel mug is about more than just how much coffee you want it to contain. If you need it to fit in your car’s cup holder, for example, or slide easily into a bag or backpack for a train commute. In general, you want a travel mug that will be easy to transport and contain enough volume of coffee to keep you satiated.

Lids are either designed as “drink-thru” or have to be removed to access the contents. Drink-thru lids are easier to navigate on the go but are not as good at keeping heat from dissipating. If you need a mug just to get hot coffee from one place to another without needing to drink it en route, a sealed lid with no drink-thru access will work best for retaining heat. If you do need to sip on the go, look for a lid with an easy slide or flip access that still protects from spills, rather than one that has a permanent opening.

Leak-Proof vs. Spill-Proof

Leak-proof travel mugs are designed to not allow any liquid to release when properly closed and sealed. These are ideal for mugs that you might need to toss into a bag or backpack during your commute. Spill-proof mugs are designed to mitigate a mess when accidentally knocked over during use. Some companies may use the language interchangeably, but in general, Leak-Proof will usually be slightly more secure than just spill-proof.

Care and Cleaning

Many travel mugs are not dishwasher safe, especially some that are vacuum insulated. Be sure to check the packaging to determine the best way to care for them. Regardless, travel mugs should be at least rinsed out after each use, even between cups, to keep them fresh, and preferably fully cleaned once a day to prevent mold and mildew. Remember that even if your mug is dishwasher safe, the dishwasher won’t remove tough stains and strong odors. For that, you’ll want to use baking soda and water and give it more of a scrub.

Frequently Asked Questions

“This is a vessel with two layers (or walls), one inside and one outside,” says Jessica Easto, author of Craft Coffee: A Manual . “In between is a layer of space, which even air has been sucked out of (that's what a vacuum is). Heat moves very slowly through the air, and it moves even more slowly through this "vacuumed" space because there are very few molecules in that space. Since heat transfer happens so slowly, your coffee stays hotter for longer.”

This will depend on your travel mug, says Easto. “A vacuum-insulated travel mug can keep coffee hot for several hours. Different brands promise different times.” If you need your coffee just to get you through your commute, you may not need the top-of-the-line mugs, but if you want that coffee hot all day, investing in a good vacuum-insulated mug or bottle will be the way to go.

Up to a point, says Easto. “The best performers of any material will be vacuum insulated.” Having said that, ceramic is a good material for retaining heat, and lids help to prevent fast cooling, so if you only need your coffee to stay hot for a short amount of time, they work fine.

Use a stiff brush or rough-sided sponge to remove the oils left behind by coffee (and any dairy or oat milk you've added). Baking soda and vinegar are the best bet for neutralizing aromas; soap is often difficult to thoroughly rinse out, and you can get lingering unwanted aromas and flavors. Put a half cup of vinegar and a teaspoon of regular dish soap in the travel mug, fill the rest with hot water, let it soak for a few hours, and then rinse it out thoroughly.

For the lid and rubber gasket (if needed), take the gasket off, and wash it with regular dishwashing liquid on a soft sponge. You can use the same sponge to clean the lid. Finally, rinse the mug and let it air dry.

Strong Contenders

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug ($29 at Amazon)

Although the Zojirushi performed well in our leak tests and kept both hot and cold beverages at the right temperature, we didn't love the overall design of this travel coffee mug. Since this mug is narrow yet tall, we found it difficult to hand wash and dry.

S'well Stainless Steel Traveler ($35 at Amazon)

We liked the vacuum insulation of the S'well Stainless Steel Traveler and noted that it formed a perfectly airtight seal to keep our beverages cold for up to 30 hours. However, we wish this travel coffee mug had a grippy exterior, a looped handle, or another more travel-friendly design feature, as it was slippery to grab and go.

THERMOS Travel Coffee Mug with Snap Flip Lid ($30 at Amazon)

We noted that this mug does not leak at all, even when knocked around on the countertop. Though it fits in standard car cupholders, the bulky handle of this thermos makes it awkward to easily grab and sip while driving, so we would have preferred not to have a handle at all.

MiiR Insulated Travel Tumbler with Locking Flip Lid ($34 at Amazon)

We liked the overall design, insulation, and size of the MiiR Insulated Travel Tumbler. However, we found a design flaw with the locking flip lid, as we found it difficult to take a sip without splashing coffee especially while commuting.

RTIC Outdoors Travel Mug ($35 at RTIC)

This travel mug performed well in our leak and insulation tests, but we didn't love the somewhat bulky handle and we found it difficult to quickly unscrew the lid for cleaning or refilling.

What Didn’t Make the List

In our tests, a few travel coffee mugs did not meet our expectations in terms of design, performance, and insulation. Some models like the Klean Kanteen Wide Recycled Insulated Mug leaked and spilled during our tests. We were disappointed by the performance of the Ember Stainless Steel Temperature Control Travel Mug and found that the smart controls took some time to get used to, and even then were ultimately awkward to use.

Clarissa Buch Zilberman is an acclaimed food writer with nearly a decade of experience. She has written for Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, Travel & Leisure, and more. For this piece, she used editor-tested insights and her research on top-rated travel coffee mugs.

The Best Leak-Proof Travel Mugs for Taking Hot (and Cold) Drinks on the Go

The 18 Best LeakProof Travel Mugs for Taking Hot Drinks on the Go

Whether you're embarking on your morning commute or headed on an East Coast road trip , you should have one of the best travel mugs in hand. Finding one you like means you can skip the routine stop at the coffee shop (or at least say no to the disposable cup), cut back on single-use plastics, and keep your drinks at an ideal temperature (with some, for hours and hours at a time). Ahead, we've rounded up Condé Nast Traveler editors' personal favorites—from brands like Hydro Flask, Yeti, Corksicle, Stanley, and more. With insulated, leak-proof, and easy-to-carry options in the mix, there's a mug in here ready for a spot in your cup holder or tote bag .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler

The 20-ounce version of Hydro Flask’s All Around Tumbler has been my go-to lately, both at home and on the commute to work. It keeps coffee warm for a few hours, so if I’m sipping slowly I don’t have to bother with reheating it, and does its job in keeping iced coffee cool, too. It has the type of lid that you can push back and forth to open or close, and the opening is wide enough to easily fit a reusable straw. I don’t drive, but the mug's size seems very cupholder-friendly, too! — Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

Stanley Classic Trigger Action travel mug

Stanley makes the best classic mugs (the company has been around since 1913 after all). The brand is known for its iconic insulated steel thermoses, which promise hours-long insulation for hot drinks and durability for wherever you’re taking your beverage— hiking , camping , thrown in the back of your car on a road trip , you name it. The original green color has a delightfully retro vibe as well. — Megan Spurrell, senior editor

Stojo collapsible travel cup, 16-ounce

The main reason I adore my collapsible Stojo cup is its clever design that makes it incredibly easy to carry around. I’m not kidding when I say that when folded down, my 16-ounce cup turns into a disc that fits into my jacket pocket. It’s also light enough to drop into a travel backpack or a sling bag when you go hiking. I use mine for everything from coffees and smoothies, and when dry, for snacks and berries. Don’t expect an insulated mug with this one: It keeps a beverage warm (or cool) for long enough for you to drink it, but isn’t a double-walled metal cup. However, it has helped me cut down on a ton of waste when traveling, and might I add is cute-looking, too. — Arati Menon, global digital director

Read a full review of the Stojo cup.

Stanley Aerolight Transit bottle

The AeroLight Transit bottle has become my new favorite mug to use on my morning commute to work. My tea is still piping hot even after my hour-long train ride. I keep it in my tote bag—along with my laptop and phone—and it never leaks. I've flipped this one completely upside down and nothing spills out, making it a reliable option to travel with. It's one-third lighter than Stanley's typical stainless steel, so it doesn't feel heavy in my bag either. I also appreciate how slim the bottle is—it's so easy to carry around. — Meaghan Kenny, associate commerce editor

Yeti Rambler stackable mug

When I'm traveling, the most essential ritual I preserve is my morning coffee. While I love nearly all of the Yeti drinkware options, this mug is perfect for coffee—both for its manageable 10-ounce size, as well as the side handle, which makes this especially easy when I'm on a road trip or a train. (This mug has come with me on camping trips in the Shenandoah Valley and Delaware Water Gap, on a road trip through the Appalachian Highlands, and a long drive between D.C. and New York City .) A fair word of warning though: The airtight lid and insulation work almost too well—coffee stays hot a long time, so I recommend you get it close to your ideal temperature before pouring it in. —Corina Quinn, former city guides director

Snow Peak Milk bottle

This is one of those gifts I have become deeply attached to—it was given to me about a year ago, when I was getting really into camping and the chic outdoor brand Snow Peak, and it’s since become a staple in my house. It has a beautifully minimalist design, is small enough to feel really portable (as in, it’s not a pain to have to tote home once it’s empty), and it never leaks. It’s no bargain, but given how much I use and love it, I think the math sort of works out in the end. — M.S .

Zojirushi stainless steel mug

“This mug is my favorite one ever because the lid has a lock feature that makes it completely leak-free. I can throw this in a travel tote and not worry about coffee dribbling all over. Plus the stainless steel interior keeps coffee extra hot for hours, but it doesn't burn your hands. In addition to my commute on the subway, I've taken this little wonder on train rides to upstate New York , and I've never spilled a drop.” —Jessica Puckett, senior editor, transportation and travel news

Hydro Flask 20 oz Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Another option from Hydro Flask worth noting is the 20-ounce bottle with a Flex Slip lid. It's large enough that I can bring plenty of iced coffee with me on the go, but it's still cupholder-friendly—very important for road trips. The double-wall vaccum insulation keeps cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 12. The carry-handle makes it easy to hold on long walks and the leak-proof lid is easy to open and close. I love the color options, especially this new purple shade. —M.K.

Martina Thornhill Okay cup

It’s not hyperbole to state that I’ve tried the lion’s share of travel mugs on the market. I drink a ton of coffee and I travel and drive a lot. I hate the way metal mugs make coffee taste—it’s so much better out of a ceramic mug. The Okay Cup from Portland, Oregon –based ceramicist Marina Thornhill is gorgeous, doesn’t leak, and doesn’t make your coffee taste like mud. It’s pricey, but a better long-term deal than always dumping the coffee you put in another mug and don’t actually drink. It’s constantly selling out, so put your name on the pre-order list—it’s worth the wait. —Rebecca Misner, senior features editor

Kinto travel tumbler

If you’re a tea drinker like me or like your travel mugs to keep your hot drinks piping hot, be warned: this insulated mug gets me every time, keeping my teas at steaming, roof-of-mouth-burning temperatures for what feels like an impossibly long time. (And that’s a good thing in my book.) I prefer the matte exterior over the stainless steel for its added grip. I use it to commute with my tea (it doesn’t leak!) and on extra-long winter walks because I know it’ll stay warm the entire time. —Meredith Carey, former travel bookings editor

Yeti Rambler lowball

This mug is a thing in my house. My partner received one as a Christmas gift , only to find it missing every morning—truth be told, after I stole it once to use for hot coffee on my morning subway commute, I couldn’t go back to any other thermos. I personally love that this mug doesn’t have a handle, because it’s so insulated it never burns my hands, yet the coffee inside stays piping hot, and its shape is nice and easy to hold. When I’m done enjoying my hot drink on the go, it takes the least space possible in my bag , where it usually clangs around for the rest of the day until I make my way home (or back to wherever I’m staying). —M.S.

Corkcicle classic tumbler

This Corkcicle tumbler keeps my coffee hot on my subway commute, and is secure enough to sneak a couple of sips while standing on a crowded, moving train. There’s also something joyful about pouring my freshly brewed coffee into a pink vessel—how could I not be cheerful toting this cute mug around the office? Most often this mug has been my subway companion, though I have used it for road trips and early morning flights that require a caffeine boost before boarding. —Katie Henwood, former senior SEO manager

Miir Climate+ Tumbler

Lately when I want a compact option that won't take up much space in my backpack or tote after it's empty, I've been reaching for this sleek stainless steel tumbler from Miir. It's shatter proof, so I don't worry about dropping it or getting any dents. For an extra charge, you can even personalize it, making it a great gift for any traveler in your life. —M.K.

Image may contain Coffee Cup Cup Bottle and Shaker

Hydro Flask stainless steel travel mug

This Hydro Flask mug checks all the boxes: It's BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, has a leak-proof lid, carrying handle, and no-sweat matte finish, and comes with a lifetime warranty. You can use it as a thermos, a water bottle , or a coffee cup. Hydro Flask also has matching slings that let you carry your travel tumbler hands-free, helpful when biking, hiking, or just dashing through the airport. — Kristi Kellogg, contributor

OtterBox Elevation wine tumbler

Technically this is a wine tumbler, but more often, I use it for iced coffee. It keeps my caffeine cold, fits the extra-large ice cube I put into the bottom, and doesn’t leave rings on tables when I set it down. Plus, like all things OtterBox, it’s sturdy—I don’t have to worry about dinging or denting it when I inevitably drop or knock it over. Its smaller size means it’s also carry-on and backpack friendly. —M.F.

Hay Sowden travel cup

I don’t think there’s a chicer travel mug than this colorful one from Hay, which comes in pink, green, or gray, all with contrasting, two-toned lids. It puts all other thermoses to shame when it comes to design—but it’s also totally functional, with an insulated stainless steel exterior that keeps drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold for an impressive 24 hours. —M.C.

W&P Porter mug

This mug hits all the right marks: The silicone sleeve makes it easy to grip and quiet when placed down on a surface; the mouthpiece on the lid is easy to slide open and close; and it’s safe to put in the dishwasher and microwave. Plus, it just looks nicer than the rest of my logo-clad travel mugs. Most often I use it to sip coffee on my morning commute, but I have also brought it on longer train rides to D.C. and on flights as a vessel for oatmeal. —M.F.

Simple Modern travel coffee mug

One of my favorite reusable water bottles is from Simple Modern, so I had high hopes for its travel mug and it certainly did not disappoint. This stainless steel mug keeps my hot beverages hot for four hours and my iced coffee cold for up to 16 hours, so it's great for day trips and using at the office. It's dishwasher safe and the handle makes sipping on the go easy. The under $20 price tag is nice, too. —M.K.

Kitchen & Household

Article updated on August 20, 2024 at 5:59 AM PDT

Best Travel Coffee Mugs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Do you like your coffee piping hot on the go? Our picks of the best travel coffee mugs will keep your drink hot, whether it's coffee, tea or another hot beverage.

Our Experts

CNET’s expert staff reviews and rates dozens of new products and services each month, building on more than a quarter century of expertise.

What's the best travel coffee mug?

If you like hot beverages, you will have a preferred temperature for it. Taking your coffee to go is great, but it's difficult to keep it warm enough. Your run-of-the-mill stainless steel travel mug is good to carry a drink in, but if it doesn't have heat retention, your drink won't stay hot for long. If you like your drinks hot (or even if you like cold drinks), you'll want an insulated mug. A travel coffee mug is essential, whether you choose to start your day with a freshly brewed coffee from home or you stop by your favorite coffee shop. It'll also help you reduce waste since you won't be using single-use cups all the time. We've tested several of them and the $29 Zojirushi stainless steel is our pick for best travel coffee mug for 2024.

A travel coffee mug isn’t necessarily a huge investment, but it can cost up to $45, which can feel like a lot to pay. To help you pick the right travel coffee mug, we tested several of the most popular travel coffee mugs to see which ones keep liquids hot longest, protect against leaks and feel nice to hold -- and look at. These are the seven best travel coffee mugs of 2024 to keep your cup holder busy.

Best travel coffee mugs

Best overall travel mug, zojirushi stainless steel mug.

Admittedly, sometimes choosing the "best" model of a given product is a matter of extreme nuance, but in this case, it wasn't even close. Zojirushi's sleek travel mug was the top performer in every possible metric. After 5 hours, the liquid was still piping hot. The screw-on lid was infallible and yet easy to drink from, with a spring-loaded button that opens the lid, and a lock feature to prevent it from being jostled open when in the closed position. (Let it be a testament to my faith in these mechanisms that I put the Zojirushi full of coffee in an overnight bag along with my clothing for a train ride out of town.) Regardless of this additional measure of security, the slim design made it easy to operate one-handed while not risking control of the mug. For the aesthetically conscious, the Zojirushi stainless mug comes in a variety of sizes, colors and patterns.

A close second for under $30

Miir flip traveler.

Along the same metrics, the Miir Flip Traveler was the clear runner-up to Zojirushi. After 5 hours, it only had lost 10 degrees beyond what the Zojirushi had maintained, but this was a solid 10 degrees hotter than almost any other model on this list. Its screw-on lid also kept all the liquid inside the mug, even when given the roller coaster treatment. The "flip" mechanism is basically a plastic flap that covers and plugs into the opening for sipping. Because the modest flap is so successful at managing leaks it wasn't as easy to flip open one-handed, but then again there's a lot less lid in your face when you go to take a sip. At half the cost of the Zojirushi, with several size and color options, this would be an excellent choice for those looking for a solid travel mug on a smaller budget.

Best variety of sizes, colors and features

Yeti rambler.

Yeti is a trusted brand in insulation, making everything from large coolers to picnic wine tumblers . It's no surprise that its travel coffee mug offering is also a worthy investment. Its Rambler series mugs are shatterproof, and double-walled, with a twist and press-on lid which includes a sliding piece to allow you a sip.

While not as hot as the above models, the liquid in the Yeti was decidedly still quite warm after 5 hours. Overall, screw-on lids tended to be more leakproof in this lineup, so Yeti's lid wasn't perfectly leak-proof, although little more than a dribble escaped. (I wouldn't be packing it among my clothing, just in case.)

Yeti has the widest variety where size and features are concerned, offering hot mugs in 10, 14, 20, 24 and 30-oz options, in about a dozen colors, and being among the only brands here to offer travel mugs with handles. Yeti's 20-oz Rambler also offers a tapered bottom with a high handle, formatted perfectly for your car's drink holder.

Best budget travel mug

Contigo west loop.

Good news for the travel-mug curious, or those with a tendency to lose things like travel mugs, Contigo's inexpensive West Loop model was also among the best performers on this list and might be something you just find on the shelf at your local department store or pharmacy. Utterly leakproof, the West Loop was on par with heavy-hitters Yeti and S'well in its ability to keep coffee relatively hot. Its contour is also especially user-friendly, with a narrow neck that makes for both a solid grip and easy one-handed operation with an auto seal function that includes a button at the back of the bottle that reveals the opening for sipping on the lid. A locking mechanism on the lid keeps the hole closed even if the auto seal button gets bumped. Its colorful models are a little more expensive, but a basic black model will cost you little more than $15, making it one of the best value mugs on this list.

Best travel mug for espresso drinks

In the spirit of full disclosure, this KeepCup mug isn't intended for longterm insulation, nor is its simple press-on lid designed to be airtight, but just look at it. For those whose daily coffee beverages top out at 6 ounces, and aren't meant to be sipped indefinitely, this glass number is the perfect vessel for a cappuccino, or other espresso drink, with a built-in cork band to serve as a heat sleeve and an attractive glass cup that still allows you to witness your foam art. Additionally, unlike all of the other models here, it is microwave-safe, which is another good way to keep your coffee hot for multiple hours.

Best travel mug with top handle

Hydro flask flex sip.

According to legend, the first people to climb to the peak of Denali did so with only a cup of hot chocolate for sustenance. While this move isn't recommended, if your to-go coffee or other hot beverage is likely to be swinging from a backpack, Hydro Flask's model with a top handle is an ideal choice. Hydro Flask is another brand whose products are known for top-performing insulation, and this Hydro Flask model was second to the Zoshirushi in terms of its ability to maintain temperature. The screw-on top creates nearly leakproof conditions. The upper part of the lid twists easily to reveal the slot for sipping, this is also what makes it only nearly leakproof, as the twisting sip mechanism tended to loosen the lid at the base somewhat.

Best design

S'well tumbler.

The S'well line of tumblers looks, feels and operates very similarly to the Yeti Rambler, even coming to within a degree of temperature variation after both 3 and 5 hours: not quite hot, but still quite warm, relying on double-walled insulation and a twist and press-on, vacuum seal lid. Also like Yeti, it is very nearly leakproof and perfectly easy to operate in one hand. While the S'well line of tumblers has far fewer size options than the Yeti, what it has in abundance is a large array of attractive designs, with several marble, geode and wood finishes for a unique touch.

How we tested travel mugs

A travel coffee mug must do at least 2 things extremely well: keep your coffee hot, and keep it from spilling all over your bag/car/desk. Additionally, matters of size, aesthetics, ease of cleaning and one-handed operability may be factors to consider. Our list was assembled based on CNET's previous picks, those that have been well-vetted by other review sites and appear repeatedly on best lists, and best-selling and consistently highly-rated models at major retailers such as Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond and Target.

Most travel coffee mugs claim to keep liquids "hot" for about 5-6 hours. To test this, I filled each of the models here with 170-degree liquid and measured the temperature after both 3 hours and 5 hours. Lids for travel mugs tend to fall in 1 of 2 camps, either some sort of threaded, screw-on mechanism or else a plastic and rubber twist/press-on lid that creates a vacuum seal. To test for leakproofness, I repeatedly upended each mug while full, looking for even a hint of a dribble.

Best travel mugs compared

Travel mug faqs, are travel coffee mugs dishwasher-safe.

It is mostly recommended to wash travel mugs and their lids in the sink with warm, soapy water. Of the models listed here, only the Yeti and Contigo give their full blessing as being dishwasher safe. Miir suggests that its Flip Traveler is dishwasher safe, but with an asterisk, recommending sink washing as a better practice to not ruin its exterior. Zojirushi, Keep Cup, Hydro Flask and S'well all are marked as not dishwasher safe.

Are travel coffee mugs good for the environment?

All of the travel mugs included here are BPA-free, which is a highly chemically processed form of plastic. To that degree, they are environmentally safe, and to the degree that they reduce the number of paper, plastic and styrofoam disposable cups, they are extremely good for the environment.

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The 9 Best Insulated Tumblers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The best way to take your drinks to the park, office, or campsite

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The world of insulated tumblers is overwhelming. There are more options than ever, and each one seems to boast some game-changing technology or eye-catching feature. But when it comes down to the basics, what you really need is something that will keep your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot, prevent spilling, hold up to the bumps and bruises of life, and look pretty good doing so. With those criteria in mind, we went on a journey to find the very best options you can buy.

When it comes to insulated tumblers, the materials are pretty standard. You won’t find many designs straying from stainless steel, as it provides excellent temperature control and is easy to clean. Still, you will want to consider your primary tumbler use. There are different tumblers for different occasions, whether you’re looking to keep your coffee warm on your desk as you finish up a morning of meetings or your wine chilled as you make your way to the perfect spot in the park for an al fresco movie viewing.

Ahead, you’ll find our suggestions for the best insulated tumblers. Each one was researched and tested in our Brooklyn lab for several factors: temperature control for hot and cold beverages, whether or not they’re spill-proof, ease of cleaning, design, durability, and comfort.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other tumblers we tested.

What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, fellow carter everywhere mug.

Size 3.5 /5
Design 4 /5
Insulation 5 /5

Unique design

Rich color options

Long-lasting temperature control

Not the best for small hands

Too big for some car cupholders

We had high hopes for this tumbler, and it didn't disappoint. The limited-edition color and shape are joyful and eye-catching—it almost looks like an Apple product—and it kept both hot and cold liquids very close to their original temperatures after an hour-long test. The mug stayed securely in an extra-large car cupholder and came out easily, though it is a little short. It also fits nicely into a backpack pouch. "It's really trendy and cute, is great for people looking for a smaller tumbler, fits well in your hand, feels well-made, and the materials look and feel nice," one of our lab testers commented.

The thermos circumference is a little wide—those with smaller hands may have trouble comfortably holding this cup for long periods. But if you can overlook that, there's a big perk: This design-forward tumbler features a ceramic interior that keeps odors and other flavors from long-ago pours at bay. The lid also features a thinned drinking lip, making it easier to sip without spilling.

Material: Stainless steel, BPA-free plastic lid, inner ceramic coating | Weight: 12.3 ounces | Capacity: 12 or 16 ounces

Best Budget

Rtic insulated tumbler.

Great cold and hot temperature retention

Strong and durable construction

Travel-friendly size

Slight metallic taste

Could be better looking

RTIC's Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Tumbler does exactly what an insulated tumbler should do. It keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot. And although at a lower price point than its competitors, our testers didn't see a drop-off in performance. Our testers found the RTIC tumbler held the same temperature an hour after the liquid was placed in the container for cold beverages. And for hot drinks, the temperature did cool, but it stayed hot enough. This excellent temperature regulation is thanks to the double-wall vacuum insulation and the stainless steel construction.

This metal construction and the tumbler's size make it ideal for travel and adventure. Our testers liked how well it fit in standard and extra-large-sized cupholders. They also liked how easily it fits into a travel backpack . What puts this tumbler ahead of others is its splash-proof lid with a straw-compatible flip lid closure.

Material: Stainless steel, double-wall vacuum insulation | Weight: 11.2 ounces | Capacity: 20 ounces

Best for Coffee

Contigo autoseal west loop travel mug.

Kept coffee very hot

Lid is secure

Sleek design

Requires a brush for cleaning

Transporting coffee and hot tea might be one of the most popular reasons people purchase a tumbler. And of the more than two dozen we tested, our testers liked the Contigo Autoseal West Loop Travel Mug best for coffee. "I'm afraid to drink it after an hour because it's still really hot—like it was just poured," one tester commented immediately after the test. Technically the temperature of the coffee dropped from 172 degrees to 148 degrees an hour after being poured, but "that's still plenty hot to drink," concluded another tester.

Contigo uses Thermalock vacuum insulation, which claims to keep hot drinks hot for up to seven hours. Auto-seal technology in the lid helps drinks stay securely where they should. The tumbler's shape makes it impossible to clean properly without a brush, however. It also makes it tougher to fit into cupholders since the bottom is wider than the top. Still, for anyone looking to securely transport hot beverages like coffee or tea, the Contigo was as good as tumblers get.

Material: Stainless steel, Thermalock vacuum insulation | Weight: 11.7 ounces | Capacity: 20 ounces

Best with Handle

Yeti rambler 24-ounce mug with magslider lid.

Courtesy of Yeti

Comfortable handle design

Low-maintenance cleaning

Classic Yeti durability

Not leak-proof

Yeti has basically become synonymous with high-quality coolers and tumblers. The Rambler Tumbler is Yeti’s version of a beer mug, but it’s a fantastic option for holding any kind of beverage. That's thanks to Yeti's double-wall vacuum insulation, which does a good job of keeping cold drinks cool and hot drinks warm for long periods of time. Another perk of the Yeti Rambler is that it can go in the dishwasher, increasing the ease of cleaning.

Because of the size and heft of this insulated tumbler, our testers found the handle helpful, but it made it hard to fit the tumbler a car cupholder. (Yeti says on its site the handle isn't necessarily designed with cupholders in mind.) "Nice to have a handle, but in the cold,ho you have to keep your hands outside [your gloves] to hold it. It also would take up more space in a bag," one tester pointed out.

If you're set on the Yeti Rambler but also want something more cupholder-compatible, Yeti makes a travel version of the same mug with a higher-placed handle and thinner bottom. There's also a straight tumbler with no handle.

Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 1 pound, 6 ounces | Capacity: 24 ounces

MiiR Flip Traveler

Doesn't leak

Modern design

Great travel size

Bulky lid lock can interfere with drinking

The Flip Traveler tumbler from MiiR is sleek. With minimal branding, classic color options, and a lid that features a flip top that locks in place, this bottle is just as easy to sip from as it is to show off on your morning commute. After lots of use, there was no notable odor or "extra flavors" clinging to the interior. This is the insulated tumbler you gift a friend (or yourself) who spends way too much time agonizing over various design details and product silhouettes—it's an insulated tumbler for those who don't want to look like they're imbibing from an insulated tumbler.

No surprise, MiiR's insulated tumbler is an ideal travel companion, fitting easily into standard-sized cupholders and a backpack. It also performed very well in our cold insulation and leak-proof tests. "This fits great in a backpack pocket," a tester noted. "It was easy to slide in and is smaller in diameter than the pocket, so it feels secure."

Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 9.9 ounces | Capacity: 12 ounces

Best for Camping

Hydro flask 22-ounce insulated tumbler cup.

Durable design

Travel-friendly

Stainless steel interior prevents flavor transfer

Lid can be hard to remove

If your hikes and camping adventures aren't complete without a midday sip of ice water—yes, actual cubes—you've found your match. Hydro Flask is a beloved brand for a reason. The double-insulated design (which is also BPA-free ) keeps water cold for hours and will withstand any drops or bumps it may face as you head out into the wilderness. One thing to keep in mind: Removing the lid can be a bit unwieldy, so make sure you've got a good grip on the base of the cup before popping off the lid (especially if you have hot liquids inside). This is an excellent option for tossing water in your hiking daypack or enjoying some hot chocolate at the end of a long day.

Our testers enjoyed the design of Hydro Flask's tumbler and found it easy to fit in a backpack but a bit snug in a standard-sized cupholder. While the cold insulation was solid, testers noted the taste of cold water wasn't as crisp after an hour as some other tested tumblers. Overall, if you're looking for a solid camp mug that can go from coffee to water to beer in one day—while also showing the resiliency to take a few falls along the way—this Hydro Flask tumbler is a solid option.

Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 12.8 ounces | Capacity: 22 ounces

Best Stainless Steel

Bubba envy insulated tumbler.

Design 3.5 /5
Insulation 4.5 /5

Clean, attractive aesthetic

Very good cold insulation

Great value for money

Too big for standard cupholders

If you're looking for another budget option, look no further than Bubba's double-walled, vacuum-insulated, BPA-free stainless steel tumbler. We were thoroughly impressed by the insulating capabilities of the Bubba Envy, as the cold temperature test basically saw no change an hour after we filled it with ice water. Our testers also liked how this tumbler looked and how easy it was to carry around.

While it did fit well in a backpack, it didn't fit in a standard cupholder. We also didn't love that the only lid option has a straw hole. But if you can live with those two minor issues, this is an excellent tumbler option, especially considering the price.

Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 14.4 ounces | Capacity: 24 ounces

Best for Wine

Maars bev stainless steel stemless wine glass tumbler with lid.

Good insulation

Easy to clean

Some may prefer a taller, thinner profile

Like many other tumblers on this list, the Maars Bev Stemless Wine Glass Tumbler is constructed of 18/8 stainless steel with double-walled vacuum insulation. Unlike many other tumblers on this list, the Maars tumbler is explicitly designed with wine enthusiasts in mind. (Just because it's a wine glass tumbler doesn't mean you only have to drink wine in it—we envision this being good for any setting where a smaller tumbler is preferred.)

Our testers liked the insulating capability of this tumbler and that there was no metallic taste in the water during testing. One tester noted they'd like to see this model be a bit taller and thinner and with a cover to close the lid's drinking hole. "This wine tumbler style isn't something I'd recommend to a friend, although the quality of this one is good," concluded another tester. "If you like wine-style tumblers, this one is the one to buy."

Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 6.4 ouncess | Capacity: 12 ounces

Best for Beer

Beast stainless steel tumbler.

Large variety of colors

Huge capacity

Bulky design

Not super durable

If you've never sipped suds from an insulated tumbler, it's time to give it a try. Seriously. You can thank us later. And if you're going to partake, you might as well do it with the Beast Stainless Steel Tumbler. Available in over a dozen colors, the tumbler comes in three sizes: 20, 30, and 40 ounces. We find that perfect for beer drinking as froth does tend to be more of an issue in insulated tumblers, so the extra space for a 12- or 16-ounce beer is helpful. Not necessarily relevant to beer drinking, each tumbler also comes with two straws (one curved design for water and one straight design for thicker drinks like smoothies) and a lifetime guarantee. The lid has a flip spout, which is surprisingly easy to clean.

We were only able to fit this tumbler in the extra-large cupholder. Our testers were very impressed with its leakproofness (it didn't leak when held upside down or shaken)—suitable for consuming beer. And they weren't impressed with its ability to insulate heat—also suitable for consuming beer. Our testers did say the separately sold handle would be a bonus. "The Beast was a little large in my hand, and while it was easy to grip the external material, it could benefit from a handle," one tester noted. "But a great value considering the capacity and its stellar performance preventing leaks."

Material: Stainless steel | Weight: 14.4 ounces | Capacity: 20, 30, or 40 ounces

For an insulated tumbler that checks all of the boxes, go with the Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug —the sleek look is just as appropriate at the office as on your travels. The MiiR Flip Traveler is another excellent option if you want something more minimal and stylish.

Tumblers were selected based on our extensive knowledge of tumblers and tumbler brands and the popularity of products on major e-commerce sites like Amazon. Products were chosen by editors from TripSavvy, Serious Eats, and The Spruce Eats. We also chose products with a range of price points and intended uses.

Products were tested in our Brooklyn testing lab. Tumblers were tested for cold insulation, heat insulation, comfort in hand, the taste of liquid in the tumblers, and how much they leaked. We tested the mugs with ice water and hot coffee. A temperature reading of each mug was taken when a liquid was poured into it and an hour later. Tumblers were also tested for their ability to be transported. For this, we placed tumblers in cupholders and backpack pockets.

CIVAGO Tumbler with Lid and Straw : This attractive tumbler comes in various colorways. We liked its cold-holding ability and the seal was pretty solid as well, but the heat-holding wasn't as good and the shape of the tumbler is just a little too bulky to be completely comfortable in hand.

Ello Campy Water Bottle with Slider Lid : The full-sized handle on this pick is divisive; it protrudes out and some find it unnecessary, though it does make for a comfortable carrying experience. It held temperature well (both hot and cold), but you'd probably need a bottle brush to clean the bottom effectively.

What to Look For in an Insulated Tumbler

Generally speaking, insulated tumblers are relatively inexpensive. The larger they are and the more liquid they hold, the more expensive they will be. More design-forward tumblers (like the options from MiiR and Fellow above) will also run a higher price. Don't expect to pay much more than $40 for your insulated tumbler. No matter the product, how much you're willing to spend is personal. We tried to include a range of prices on this list to offer options for different budgets.

Consider how you’re going to be using your tumbler. There are lighter options for hikers and campers, but they may not hold as much liquid or keep it as cold or hot. Going on a super-long road trip and need enough coffee to fuel you for a day straight? Go for something a bit larger that you may not be toting around very often. There are also plenty of minimalist options for those who may have their insulated tumbler on display throughout the day (like in an open-plan office).

Stainless steel is the standard for insulated mugs since it’s easy to clean, doesn’t hold on to odors, and has fantastic temperature control compared to other materials, such as plastic.

There are insulated tumblers of all sizes, but the most common ones are 12 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces, and 24 ounces. You can undoubtedly find larger ones (like the Beast option above) that will hold 30 ounces and more.

First off, let’s define BPA—it stands for the chemical bisphenol-A, an industrial chemical that is often used to create plastics.Some medical studies have found it to be an endocrine disruptor in large quantities, simply meaning it interferes with the body’s hormones. Given this risk, many people prefer to purchase tumblers and water bottles made from BPA-free materials.

Many insulated tumblers are dishwasher-friendly, but it’s best to check the washing instructions on the manufacturer’s website. Some insulated tumblers come with design details that can be hard to clean without scrubbing them yourself, like built-in straws.

Erika Owen is a big fan of super cold water. A simple water bottle doesn't pass the temperature test. She's been testing insulated tumblers for years and is constantly searching for the perfect travel-friendly option that doesn't eat up (too much) precious carry-on space.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy's Outdoor Gear Editor. He knows from too many personal experiences how frustrating it is to finish a bike commute with coffee all over the bottom of your backpack. While he prefers a Nalgene for water and hydration, he exclusively drinks coffee and beer from insulated tumblers. His current rotation includes tumblers of various styles and sizes from Klean Kanteen, Yeti, and Hydro Flask.

Fran Sales , Taylor Rock , Meg Lappe , and Jalyn Robinson tested tumblers together in our Brooklyn testing lab.

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Bisphenol A (BPA) .

National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Endocrine Disruptors .

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The 8 Best Travel Mugs for Caffeinating on the Go

We got our hands on several popular travel mugs to find out if they’re worth the hype. These are our favorites among those we tested.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

These durable, portable mugs are typically made of stainless steel, with built-in insulation so your last sip of coffee is as warm (or as cold) as the first. Their lids are designed to prevent splashing or spills, so you can throw the travel mug in a backpack or slide it in a car’s front console without worrying about a potential mess.

Many of the best travel mugs we recommend are ideal for camping or hiking in addition to everyday carrying. Most are dishwasher-safe or stack for easy storage, and won’t set you back more than $30. Considering they’re reusable and maintain your drink’s temperature, they’re worth considering even if your daily commute it from the kitchen to your home office. Whether you’re keeping warm by the campfire or sipping tea on the train, wrap your hands around one of these editor-tested travel mugs.

The Best Travel Mugs

Best Overall: Yeti Rambler Stackable Mug
Best Value: CamelBak Horizon Tumbler
Best Leakproof Lid: Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle
Best Coffee Maker Combo: Espro P0 Ultralight Single Serve French Coffee Press
Best Exterior Insulation: Hydro Flask Insulated Travel Portable Coffee Tumbler

What to Consider

Most of the travel mugs on this list are made with stainless steel. Steel is great for long-term durability, holding up well to drops, scratches, and continuous washing. Flavors and odors don’t stick to steel either. Once you finish your drink and rinse out the mug, you won’t taste your last cup of tea lingering in the background for the rest of the day.

Some stainless steel mugs have a slight metallic taste to them. If you’ve got sensitive tastebuds, consider a mug with a ceramic coating on the inside. This replicates the neutral flavor profile of a classic mug you use for coffee at home.

Travel mugs are typically insulated to keep your drink hot or cold for the duration of your trip. Most have double-wall construction, with two layers of metal inside and out. The pocket of air in between prevents temperature transfer, so even if you’re drinking piping hot coffee, your hand doesn’t feel a thing.

Many of the travel mugs we recommend come in multiple sizes, usually from six ounce to 24 ounces or more to double as your water bottle. Despite large capacity, most are designed to fit into a car cupholder or the side pocket of a backpack.

Additional Features

Some travel mugs come with handles while others do not. Handles on a mug are great for holding them while on a walk or hike as well as for storage. Instead of packing your mug into your backpack where it takes up valuable storage space, clip it on by the handle. Travel mugs with handles typically don’t fit easily in a cupholder. This is a major drawback for commuters who want a coffee cup for their drive to work.

Travel mugs almost always come with lids, but these vary in quality. Some prevent splashes and major spills by simply covering the top of the mug. They press on and often have a thin rubber ring around the perimeter to help keep them on the mug, though they won’t be completely sealed. So if you drop your mug, liquid is bound to spill out.

Other travel mugs come with thicker, screw-on lids that completely seal your drink inside. These protect your drink from spilling when they are dropped, but are typically much larger than a press-on lid and are more tedious to clean.

How We Tested

Each travel mug we tested was evaluated based on their performance in every day situations from morning commutes to walking outdoors. We paid close attention to heat retention, drink flavor, splashes or spills with the lid on, and ease of cleaning. Each travel mug was dropped several times from standing height to ensure durability. For those with press-on lids, we also paid attention to how securely the lids stayed on during a drop.

For mugs we didn’t personally test out, we compared key specs such as size, material, and insulation. We also researched across multiple online publications and read through customer reviews.

YETI Rambler Stackable Mug

This travel mug from Yeti impressed us with its durability, convenience, and practicality. The stainless steel construction holds up well against drops, and the double-wall insulation kept my coffee hot for hours.

The bottom of the mug is slightly thinner than the rest of the body. Because of this, the mug stacks perfectly into other Yeti mugs for easy storage when not in use.

The press-on lid isn’t completely leakproof, but it does come with a slider to cover the mouth hole when you aren’t drinking. While this won’t prevent a leak if you drop your mug, it certainly keep coffee from splashing out as you walk.

The slightly larger than average 14-ounce capacity was a small but noticeable detail for anyone who likes a full cup of joe, creamer, and sugar. The 12-ounce mugs require the slightest sacrifice while this Yeti gives you all the space you need.

CamelBak Horizon Tumbler

Without the classic mug handle, this tumbler from CamelBak is built for the commute. While a handle is great for walking and hiking, this travel mug fits into your car cupholder without the cumbersome handle getting in the way.

The travel mug also has a silicone based which provides a solid base that keeps the mug steady when in motion. Like most of the travel mugs on this list, the CamelBak is make of stainless steel.

However, the steel is powder-coated so when you take a sip of your tea, you taste the tea, not the metallic lingering flavor of your cup.

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle

If you want a leakproof container for your coffee, this tumbler from Hydro Flask is your answer. The screw-on lid has a twisting top that seals the bottle closed when you aren’t sipping. Twist it open to grab a sip, twist it closed, and your bottle won’t leak even if it’s dropped on the ground.

Both the lid and body are dishwasher-safe, so don’t worry about scrubbing coffee stains out of the crevices and corners of the relatively tall bottle.

While it doesn’t have a handle, this travel mug comes with a carrying strap on the top of the lid. Combined with the leakproof lid, you can hook the bottle to the outside of your backpack filled to the brim and not lose a drop.

Espro P0 Ultralight Single Serve French Coffee Press

Make your coffee fresh and take it to go with this portable French press from Espro. With double filter design, all the grit and sediment from your coffee grounds is kept at bay, so your fresh cup is as smooth as any you could make at home.

Unscrew the leakproof lid and you’ll have hot coffee to sip all day long. The French press feature also works well for tea. Simply swap out your coffee grounds for loose leaf tea, and the mechanism is just as effective.

Instead of carrying along a cup of drip coffee from my house, I get fresh pressed coffee that's smoother, and frankly, tastier than anything my regular machine can make. I love it so much that I sometimes use the Espro at home just for its double-filter press.

Hydro Flask Insulated Travel Portable Coffee Tumbler

Another option from Hydro Flask, this travel mug gives you the the same sensation as your favorite mug at home. Instead of grasping your hands around the cold metallic exterior of many other travel mugs, the Hydro Flask has a soft to the touch coating.

While it won’t warm up your hands like a ceramic mug, it won’t cool them down, like other travel mugs. For all the cold mornings by the campgrounds, the last thing you want to do is wrap your hands around a frigid metal mug.

The travel mug also comes with a press-on lid with a slider for the mouth opening. It leaks if you drop it, but it keeps the coffee from splashing around as you walk.

Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug

Coupled with a ceramic-coated interior to stave off any odors, tastes, or smells from the cup, this Carter mug is great for getting that home-mug experience even if you can’t be at home. The wide opening also lets you brew coffee straight into the mug using a pour-over coffee maker or an Aeropress while camping or hiking.

The twist-locking lid of this reusable cup is leakproof to ensure no messes occur in transit and the double-wall insulation keeps your coffee hot for hours.

It doesn’t fit into a standard cupholder and the wide mouth may be hard to sip while driving or on the subway, but if you need something to transport coffee, this ensures it’s hot (and not all over your bag) when you arrive at your destination.

Zojirushi Stainless Travel Mug

For heat retention that lasts all day, the travel mug from Zojirushi is built to handle it. The double-wall insulation keeps the heat, while the variable sizes mean the mug can double as a thermos for soup too.

The leakproof lid has a flip top that locks in place, keeping liquids secure when closed. The lid also disassembles into four different pieces, so you can better clean each part of it and prevent mold buildup.

The interior of the mug has a nonstick coating that prevents residue from caking up the corners of the bottle. All you need to clean it out is some soapy water and a dish brush.

Klean Kanteen Insulated Camp Mug

Made out of 90 percent recycled steel, this travel mug from Klean Kanteen offers the same insulation as other options on our list but with a much smaller environmental impact. The recently climate neutral company created the mug using post-consumer recycled steel, meaning it would have otherwise entered a landfill.

Beyond this, the mug comes with a unique design etched into the side. The mountains and forestry on the side of the mug add help the mug stand out among its otherwise neutral-colored contemporaries.

The press-on lid is perfect for reducing splashes, but the open mouth does leave something to be desired. While it minimizes coffee splashes, expect a few drops to slip out on a bumpy commute.

Tom Price is an Associate Editor of Reviews for Popular Mechanics, and also contributes to Runner's World, and Bicycling . He has previously covered product reviews, startup news, and even professional wrestling. In his free time, he enjoys watching pretentious TV, low-brow movies, and exercising for beauty, not health. If you are interested in exploring more of his work, check out his website .

Danny Perez is a Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics with a focus on men's style, gear, and home goods. Recently, he was coordinator of partnership content at another product journalism outlet. Prior to that, he was a buyer for an independent men's shop in Houston, Texas, where he learned all about what makes great products great. He enjoys thrifting for 90s Broadway tees and vintage pajama sets. His spare time is occupied by watching movies and running to impress strangers on Strava.

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The Best Travel Coffee Mugs for Road Trips, Park Strolls, and Your Morning Commute

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you’re a Coffee Person, or frankly, if you’re a Hot Beverage Person™ of any kind, we probably don’t need to explain to you the importance of a great travel coffee mug. Because while we all might dream of a world in which we get to sip each and every cup of joe from our favorite handmade ceramic mug while curled up on the couch (with a cat purring on our laps and a roaring fire going, perhaps), the reality is, whether we’re commuting, dropping kids off at school, or headed on a road trip, most of us need to satisfy our caffeine cravings on the go.

Image may contain: Bottle, Water Bottle, and Shaker

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Image may contain: Jar, Pottery, Bottle, Shaker, Hockey, Ice Hockey, Ice Hockey Puck, Rink, Skating, Sport, and Water Bottle

Kinto Vacuum Insulated Travel Tumbler

Amazon (12-Ounce)

Image may contain: Steel, Can, Tin, Bottle, Cup, and Shaker

Yeti Rambler 8-Ounce Stackable Cup

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Hitch Water Bottle

Free People

Bespoke Post

Hitch (Preorder)

There are lots of different kinds of travel coffee mugs, and the best travel mug for you will depend on a few things: Are you transporting a tumbler via subway, or taking it on a daylong road trip? Do you need a mug that’ll keep your beverage hot for hours on end? Are you sick of carrying around a coffee tumbler and a water bottle, and curious about an option that could serve as both? (If you didn’t know this was a possibility, get excited.) Read on for our list of expert-tested and editor-recommended travel coffee mugs that’ll cover all of these bases and more.

The best travel coffee mug for tossing in your bag: Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Pros: Leakproof, slim, and retains heat well Cons: Not dishwasher safe

This is an insulated travel mug that really delivers on keeping hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold. So, if you’re the type who wants to enjoy a cup of coffee at your office desk that’s just as hot as when it came from the coffee maker, or you take an hour to reach the bottom of a single cup of tea, the Zojirushi stainless steel mug will work for you. And if you need a travel mug that you can toss in your bag alongside your laptop without the risk of catastrophic spillage, this stainless steel vacuum insulated number is the one.

Japanese brand Zojirushi’s rice cookers consistently win the product tests conducted by our sister publication Epicurious. The brand’s stainless steel travel mug meets those same high standards: It was a top pick in the Epicurious travel mug review thanks to its excellent heat retention, slim, lightweight design, and a sliding lock mechanism on the leak-proof lid that ensures your bag and its contents will be safe from any spillage, no matter how much the mug gets jostled around. With 12-, 16-, and 20-ounce sizes and a rainbow of colors to choose from, we’re confident there’s a Zojirushi mug for all you train commuters and gym bag carriers, whether you prefer a flashy candy apple red or an understated matte black. And if you’re the lunch-packing type, Zojirushi also makes some of our favorite vacuum insulated thermoses for all of your soup and stew needs.

While this mug is not dishwasher safe (that’s true with most vacuum insulated tumblers), a nonstick coating makes the interior easy to clean, and the flip-top lid comes apart for easy hand washing. Because of its narrow opening, you might want to pick up a soft bottle brush to help give your bottle a deep clean every once in a while.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 12 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces Warranty: 5 years

Another great leak-proof travel coffee mug: Kinto Travel Tumbler

Pros: Leakproof, durable, and heat-retentive Cons: Screw-top cap, not dishwasher safe

This vacuum-insulated travel tumbler from Kinto has garnered a loyal fanbase here at Bon Appétit for a few reasons. Associate social media manager Olivia Quintana and senior cooking editor Emma Laperruque both love the screw-top design: While it’s not quite as easy-access as a flip lid, “It means when I'm not using it it's super sealed and never ever leaks,” says Olivia. Emma stashes a full tumbler in her bag alongside her laptop, noting that she’s used it for years without once running into a spillage situation. “It also insulates wildly (I can forget my tea for hours and it's still hot).” That’s because like the other mugs on this list, the Kinto features double-wall vacuum insulation that’s great at maintaining temperatures both hot and cold.

The Kinto has also proven very durable. Emma notes that she’s “had it for a long time, and the color coating has not chipped or scratched at all—and I am not precious with it.” Speaking of that color coating, this mug comes in ten matte colorways that range from a jewel-toned turquoise to earthy ash green, and the sleek design makes it a great choice for any minimalist aesthetes out there. Laperruque likes the smaller, 12-ounce size because it’s easy to slip in her bag without weighing her down, but Kinto also makes a 17-ounce version for people who need a bit more of a caffeine boost in the morning.

This mug is not dishwasher-safe, but it completely disassembles (even down to the silicone gaskets) for easy handwashing.

Dishwasher safe: No Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Yes Sizes available: 12 ounces, 17 ounces Warranty: 30 days for manufacturing defects

The best travel coffee mug for car rides: Yeti Rambler

Pros: Easy to open and close with one hand, stackable, heat retentive Cons: Not spill-proof

Yeti is another perpetual staff favorite brand. The cooler giant’s travel coffee tumblers are the go-to pick for multiple staffers, specifically when they’re looking to take their beverage on the road. (The Yeti Rambler was the top-scoring mug for road trips in the Epicurious tests as well.) That’s because Yeti’s Rambler mugs are equipped with “MagSlider” lids that are easy to open and close with one finger while your other hand stays on the wheel. “They have the best sip lids in the game,” says commerce editor Carina Finn, “and even though I'm a certified Straw Person, I actually love drinking from these.”

While the Yeti Rambler comes in a handled mug shape , both Carina and Bon Appétit production manager Matt Carson are partial to the tumbler style, which comes in 8-, 16-, 20-, and 30-ounce sizes, all of which fit in a standard car cup holder. “I like the 8-ounce size for hot coffee, and the adorably chunky 16-ounce for iced coffee season,” says Carina, while Matt typically opts for the 20-ounce size. Another excellent feature? “They're stackable,” says Carina. “So they take up less space in my cabinet (which means I can snap up any of the brand's limited edition colors I get way too excited about).”

As with the other tumblers on this list, the vacuum insulated construction of these guys keeps drinks at a consistent temperature for hours on end, whether you’re into hot or cold beverages. “I once left it in my car all weekend full of water and ice cubes, and there was still solid ice in there on Sunday afternoon,” says Matt. Unlike the Zojirushi and the Kinto, this tumbler is dishwasher safe.

Dishwasher safe: Yes Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: No Sizes available: 8 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces, 30 ounces Warranty: 5 years

Yeti Rambler 16-Ounce Stackable Cup

Yeti Rambler 20-Ounce Stackable Cup

The travel coffee mug that is also a water bottle: Hitch Bottle and Cup Kit

Pros: Combines the functions of a water bottle and coffee mug Cons: It’s bulky when the pieces stack

Senior service editor Kelsey Youngman needed to tick a lot of boxes when picking a travel coffee cup. She wanted something that “was pleasant to sip from, kept my coffee hot, was dishwasher-safe, and was also somehow a water bottle because I kept forgetting to drink water alongside my morning brew.” If you have been clogging your backpack or purse with separate coffee cups and water bottles and Kelsey’s plight strikes a chord with you, the Hitch Bottle and Cup Kit is the answer to your problems. “It’s a nifty insulated water bottle with a just-right sized 12-ounce coffee cup nestled inside (the coffee cup slips in between the insulated layers of the bottle when it’s not in use),” explains Kelsey. If you're having a hard time visualizing what exactly that all entails (as I admittedly did), the product page on the Hitch website has a handy video to help with that.

If you want to use the coffee cup and water bottle separately, each comes with its own lid so they’re fully functional whether they’re screwed together or not. And if you want carry your water and coffee in one hand, the coffee cup snaps right onto the top of the water bottle for easy transportation. And before you ask: Yes, it’s all BPA-free and dishwasher safe (though hand wash is recommended for the outer shell, which detaches from the bottle’s double-wall insulated stainless steel interior).

Two final selling points: Both components of the Hitch bottle are mostly leakproof (not as fully leakproof as the Zojirushi or the Kinto), and will fit in most standard-sized cup holders. So yes, this truly is the travel coffee mug that does it all. “I’ve never been more hydrated and caffeinated all at once,” says Kelsey.

Dishwasher safe: Yes (hand wash recommended for the outer shell) Fits in car cup holder: Yes Leakproof: Mostly Sizes available: 1 size (18 ounce water bottle and 12 ounce coffee mug) Warranty: 30 days for manufacturing defects

How we chose the best travel coffee mugs

We leaned on the rigorous product testing conducted by our sister brand Epicurious (for more info on the rest of the travel mugs they tested including the Contigo West Loop, the Fellow Carter Slide Mug, and more from brands like Miir, Hydro Flask, and Klean Kanteen, head right this way ). But we also gathered recommendations directly from our staff, whose expertise and real life experience using the products over a long period of time were crucial in informing our mug picks.

What about those big Stanley Cups?

Chances are you’ve seen these massive handled tumblers around, whether on social media or perched on your officemate’s desk. At 40 ounces in capacity and available in over 20 hues (with limited-edition color releases that invariably sell out in days if not hours), the Stanley Cup —or the Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler, as it’s formally called—has gained a loyal and lasting following over the past couple of years. And while it’s known as a water bottle (you’ll find it all over #WaterTok ), you may not have realized it can be used for hot beverages too. The vacuum-insulated stainless steel is extremely effective at keeping drinks hot—when I went to test how well the insulation on mine worked, I found a full cup of boiling water still be scalding five hours later—and when the straw is removed the cap can be rotated to reveal a spout opening for sipping.

The thing is, 40 ounces is a comically large amount of coffee for anyone to be drinking, let alone carrying around, and it’s probably more herbal tea than anyone could plausibly desire in a sitting. But if you require superhuman amounts of caffeine to get you through the day, or if the idea of having a hot beverage that’ll last you an entire six-hour road trip entices you, maybe the Stanley is your perfect match. It does effectively keep cold drinks cold, so you could use it for a whole morning’s worth of cold brew.

It’s worth noting that the Quencher does come in some more manageable sizes, the smaller of which do not have handles and while perhaps less trendy, would probably be better suited for your coffee needs.

Stanley Quencher 40-Ounce Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler

Stanley Quencher 14-Ounce Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler

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The 16 Best Travel Mugs to Keep Drinks Hot or Cold on the Move

Good travel mugs are leakproof, durable and stylish. The best ones go even further.

By Hayley Helms and Jack Seemer

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

Travel mugs deserve due diligence. You might be tempted to grab whatever mug you see on sale, only to realize later that it leaks or has terrible thermal properties.

Good travel mugs are simple to use, leakproof, durable and stylish. The best ones also fit easily in a cupholder (with some exceptions) and keep your coffee hot or cold for hours on end. These picks do all that and more.

Every product is independently selected. Learn more about our testing methods.

Best Overall Travel Mug

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Sip Lid Travel Mug

Fits in standard cupholder
Dishwasher-safe
Large variety of color options
Lifetime warranty
No extra bells or whistles
$25 at Amazon $35 (29% off)

Hydro Flask’s double-wall, vacuum-insulated, stainless steel water bottles are known to keep beverages cold or hot all day long, and the same goes for its coffee mugs.

The Wide Mouth Mug keeps cold drinks chilled for a whopping 24 hours, and hot drinks hot for 12 hours. The variety of colors and sizes Hydro Flask offers is wide, the flexible carry handle is comfortable to grip and makes it easy to strap to any pack and the lifetime warranty is sweet.

Best Upgrade Travel Mug

YETI Rambler 20 Ounce Tumbler

Sturdy design
Dishwashe-safe
$35 at Amazon

Yeti is pretty firmly ensconced as the cooler king . No big surprise then that the company makes some pretty damn good mugs, as well.

This double-wall vacuum-insulated option keeps your beverage as hot or cold as you like while also looking good and standing up to the elements. The no-muss Magslider lid makes it even more travel friendly.

Best Budget Travel Mug

RTIC Travel Coffee Mug

Top-tier insulation
Comes in multiple sizes
Hand-wash only
$23 at Amazon

Rtic makes top-of-the-line coolers , so it’s understandable the brand also crushes the hot beverage game — with style to spare.

Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps each sip toasty, and the 16-ounce capacity ensures there will be plenty such sips.

Brand to Watch

SMMT Outdoor Serpa Tumbler

Easy to clean
Doesn't fit cupholders
$42 at SMMT Outdoor

Created by former Nike execs and located in Park City, Utah, SMMT Outdoor specializes in elevating outdoor gear, and its Serpa Tumbler is no exception.

The leak-proof lid separates into two components — the durable plastic sipping lid and a magnetic base, which doubles as a coaster when sipping lid-free.

The Serpa can hold 16 ounces, and it is shorter and stouter than other insulated mugs. It doesn’t fit in car cupholders (which is a shame) but it’s chic design and ability to keep drinks at their optimal temperatures will probably inspire you to have it in-hand, anyway.

Best Large Travel Mug

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

Large handle makes carrying easy
Compatible with all cup holders
Heavy when full
$45 at Amazon

Thanks to TikTok, Stanley’s humble Quencher has gone from standard issue to red-hot over the last couple years. If you’re seeing one in practically everyone’s hand, it’s not just the effect of social media: the bottle is that good.

The 40-ounce capacity with cup holder compatibility is spill-proof, easy to drink out of thanks to its reusable straw and easy to grip thanks to its extra-large handle. It’s easy to clean since it’s dishwasher safe, and it comes in a variety of colors.

And, yes, it keeps your drinks at just the temp you want — four hours for warm drinks, and 11 hours for cold beverages.

Innovative Lid Design

Miir 360 Traveler

Sleek and sophisticated design
Pricey per ounce
Only available in smaller sizes
$28 at Miir

If you’re constantly on-the-go, sometimes it can be a pain to take the time to sip out of one tiny little opening in your travel mug lid. You want options! And Miir offers them with its 360 Traveler.

The unique pop-up design of the lid allows for sipping anywhere around the rim — no thinking required. It’s spill proof, sleek and easy to use.

The lid can be a little annoying to clean, but that’s not anything new in the world of insulated mugs and bottles.

Most Versatile Design

Camelbak Products MultiBev Water Bottle & Travel Cup – Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel – Black – 22oz bottle & 16oz cup

CamelBak MultiBev Water Bottle & Travel Cup

Easy to share beverages
Can also store dry goods
Too tall for daily use
$40 at Amazon $52 (23% off)

If you’re looking for a travel mug that can do more — and are willing to shell out for it — CamelBak’s Red Dot Design Award-winning innovation is your play.

The insulated 22-ounce bottle features a removable, lidded 16-once cup you can use to reduce waste at a coffee shop, stash snacks and even use to share some of your precious rocket fuel with a friend, if you’re feeling generous.

Best Travel Mug for Long Journeys

Ember Travel Mug 2

Keeps drinks at a specific temperature for three hours
Not for cold drinks
Requires setup
$120 at Amazon

If you’re the type to let your coffee or tea go cold, just to microwave it and let it go cold again, then the Ember 2 should be on your radar.

Yes, other insulated mugs and bottles can keep your favorite drink semi-hot for up to six hours. But Ember’s keeps your coffee, tea or other hot beverage at the same exact temperature for three hours.

Classic Travel Mug

Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Mug

Comfortable handle
White lid stains easily
$18 at Amazon

If you love to get outdoors, this backcountry-inspired travel mug looks just like the ceramic mugs that used to be everyone’s go-to for camping.

The sliding leak-proof lid keeps things hot and secure for up to five hours. We recommend pairing this mug with some easy-to-make camp coffee like Kuju’s pour-over grounds or Alpine Start’s instant coffee.

Best Travel Tumbler

CamelBak Horizon 10 Ounce Rocks Tumbler

Fits easily in your hand or pack
Non-slip silicone base
Won't hold a standard 12-ounce can of beer
$16 at Amazon $19 (16% off)

Camelbak’s small-but-mighty 10 ounce tumbler is perfect for keeping drinks — alcoholic or not — chilled and ready for sipping at a moment’s notice.

The double-walled insulated stainless steel is powder-coated for a sweat-free finish: use this for your afternoon cocktail this weekend, and you won’t get those annoying drops rolling off every time you raise your glass to take a refreshing sip.

CamelBak’s non-slip silicone pad on the base keeps things upright and steady, and its tumbler-style lid slides open into three different positions, so you can find the flow that works for you.

Best Travel Mug for Bike Rides

Velo Canteen

Fits standard bottle cages
Only holds 13.5 ounces
$45 at Velo

For the cyclist that enjoys a quality brew but doesn’t want to pour it into plastic — or simply refined riders that want a beautiful, functional bottle to complement their kit — it doesn’t get much better than Velo’s Stainless Steel Canteen.

It fits in a standard cage, works on and off the bike and double-walled stainless steel keeps warm drinks warm for hours on end.

Best Snap-Lid Design

zojirushi 16 ounce stainless steel vacuum insulated mug

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Comes in two-dozen colorways
Multiple sizes available
Cold retention is short
$26 at Amazon

Offered in two-dozen attractive hues, Zojirushi mugs are renowned for their quality. This one keeps beverages hot for up to six hours, and there’s a five-year warranty on the heat retention, so you’re essentially getting five years of steaming java in one purchase.

Best Travel Mug for Iced Coffee

Klean Kanteen Insulated TKWide 16 oz Travel Mug

Some of the best thermal retention on the market
Appearance is pretty plain
$33 at Amazon

This vacuum-insulated bottle gives you loads of liquid refreshment options. But simply using the included leak-proof Café Cap and carrying handle, you can tote hot coffee for an impressive 14 hours — or iced coffee for a mind-blowing 47.

An Aesthetically Pleasing Design

Swell Teakwood Traveler

Triple-layer vacuum insulation
Comes in three sizes
Not real wood
$40.00 at swell.com

The 16-ounce version of this distinctive-looking option will keep your coffee steaming for a a generous 12 hours thanks to stainless steel and triple-walled insulation.

If the wood finish isn’t your style, there are several other colors and patterns to peruse.

An Old-School Design

Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug

Lid can open with one hand
Classic stylng
May be too old-school for some
$25 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Stanley’s been at it for more than a century, with consistent quality you can trust.

This mug combines timeless good looks with reliable 18/8 Stainless Steel and double-wall vacuum insulation to ensure hours of toasty joe.

It’s easy to drink while driving, too, thanks to the push-button lid you can trigger with your thumb.

Best Travel Mug for Tea

Thermos Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Travel Tumbler

Has thousands of positive reviews
Built-in tea hook
Not the most durable design
$22 at Amazon $28 (21% off)

This fan-favorite has over 8,000 Amazon ratings and a 4.6-star average. The vacuum insulation will keep coffee or tea hot for up to five hours, while the built-in tea hook handily suspends tea bags and most loose leaf infusers.

7 Best Travel Mugs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We brewed and sipped many cups of coffee to find the best travel mugs for your needs.

Related To:

Our Top Travel Mug Picks

Best overall: yeti rambler 20-ounce travel mug, best budget: contigo vacuum insulated 24-ounce travel mug, best for heavy travel: hydroflask 20-ounce coffee flex-sip wide-mouth bottle, best mug with handle: swig life 18-ounce tumbler with handle, best compact: simple modern kona 16-ounce coffee mug thermos, best for camping: yeti rambler 14-ounce mug, honorable mention: zojirushi insulated 20-ounce mug.

Tested by Layla Khoury-Hanold

Having a go-to travel mug you love in your kitchen cupboard is the wardrobe equivalent of a goes-with-everything jacket. It’s dependable, durable and functional, and it expresses your personal style and lifestyle needs. Toting coffee or tea from home can save you money, whether you’re hustling on your morning commute, out for a morning hike or handling school drop-off. When you do stop for a cuppa, whether it’s at your neighborhood coffee shop or at the airport, a reusable travel mug can also help cut down on plastic and paper cup waste.

Most of us shop for travel mugs online, but we found there’s a lot to be said for being able to hold the mug in your hands and take a sip from it. These are a few things to look for when shopping for travel coffee mugs online while browsing product images, descriptions and manufacturer claims. We broke down a list of our favorite mugs we tested and what to look for the next time you invest in a new travel mug.

Photo by: Layla Khoury-Hanold

Layla Khoury-Hanold

How We Tested

We purchased 10 top-rated travel coffee mugs according to various online sites, reviews and bestseller rankings. We tested travel coffee mugs across a range of price points in a variety of sizes, from 14 ounces to 24 ounces. We also tested models with and without handles and different styles of lids, including thumb-sliding lids, push-button lids and twist lids.

First, we assessed the design and construction of the travel coffee mug. We noted what materials the body and lid were made of and whether the mug felt durable. To assess the mug’s measurements, we noted how many ounces of liquid the mug held and whether it easily fit in a kitchen cabinet. To evaluate the design, we tested to see if the mug fit in a standard-size cup holder and noted whether the lid locked or closed while not in use.

We observed if the mug came with a manual or paperwork to explain how to use the mug. We also noted if there were any assembly instructions or recommended steps prior to first use, such as washing and drying. We also reviewed the care and use instructions to determine if the mug was dishwasher safe and assessed how easy it might be to clean.

We also recorded any special claims, including leak-proof or spill-proof design, how many hours it promised to keep beverages hot for, no-sweat design, shatter-resistant or dent/drop-resistant construction, non-slip silicone base and comfort grip handles. We also noted whether the mug came with a warranty and, if so, how long it lasts and what is covered.

We conducted the food test in two parts, first a boiling water test and then a taste test.

For the boiling water test, we added 12 ounces (the equivalent of two standard cups of brewed coffee) of boiling water to the travel mug and noted the temperature using an instant-read thermometer and recorded the temperature to a tenth of a degree. We then added the lid to the mug and checked the water temperature after 30 minutes, 1 hour, 3 hours, and 6 hours, with the lid on. (Depending on the design of the mug, some mugs required removing the lids to take the water temperature.) If a mug came with a claim to keep water hot for a longer period, such as 9 hours or 12 hours, we tested that too. We also noted each time whether the base of the cup was too hot or cold to handle — all of the mugs were easy to hold throughout the whole test.

For the taste test, we brewed coffee and added the coffee to the travel mug. When the liquid was cool enough, we took a sip through the lid. We noted any strange, metallic or plastic tastes. We waited 30 minutes and tasted the coffee again by sipping it through the lid. Again, we noted any strange or unpleasant flavors.

Here we noted whether any of the parts (mug body or lid parts) were dishwasher-safe. Most of the travel mugs we tested had dishwasher-safe lids, but many of the painted bodies required hand washing. A couple of the most durable models were completely dishwasher-safe. We also noted how easy the mugs were to wash and dry by hand, observing how easily the coffee washed away from the interior of the mug body as well as how easy it was to reach the bottom of the mug. Most manufacturers recommend hand washing parts in warm, soapy water, rinsing and drying thoroughly and then storing the lid and body separately.

This article has been reviewed since its original publish date for accuracy, pricing and availability. We stand by our list of top travel coffee mug picks.

Durable, no-sweat, shatterproof construction
Double-wall vacuum insulation for hot and cold beverages
6-hour heat retention
Magnetized slider-lid prevents spills
Wider mug may be challenging to hold one-handed for those with smaller hands

The YETI Rambler won top marks for its durable 18/8 stainless steel body construction, 6-hour heat retention and ease of cleaning. The manufacturer boasts its shatter-resistant construction and double-wall vacuum insulation and backs it all up with a five-year warranty. It comes in a variety of colors, finished with their proprietary DuraCoat color that also promises a no-sweat design. Both the lid and the body are dishwasher-safe, no matter the color finish. This mug is a little wider than most, making it easy to wash up by hand. Those with smaller hands may find it challenging to drink from the mug one-handed for a prolonged period.

Material Stainless steel
Lid style Slide-lock
Dishwasher-safe Yes

Great value
Rubberized grip for one-handed drinking
Snap-close seal prevents spills
Tall height doesn’t fit in standard cupboard or Keurig
Hand-wash only for mug body (unless unpainted model)
Only keeps liquids hot for 3 hours

This mug packs a lot of value for the cost. It was the least expensive mug we tested but is made from durable stainless steel and BPA-free plastic and has a capacity of 24 ounces or the equivalent of four cups of coffee. We liked the addition of a rubberized grip on the exterior of the mug, making it easy to drink one-handed. It also comes with an easy on-off lid and snap-close seal to prevent spills. Though it claimed to keep liquids hot for 9 hours, we found that it only kept boiling water hot for 3 hours. Because of its height, it doesn’t easily fit in a kitchen cabinet or when using a standard Keurig coffee maker. Only the lid and unpainted body are dishwasher-safe. Painted body models are handwash only, and the narrow opening means you’ll need a long-handled brush to properly reach the bottom of the mug. This model comes with a limited lifetime guarantee.

Material Stainless steel and BPA-free plastic
Lid style Snap-close
Dishwasher-safe Yes; lid and unpainted body only

Kept liquids hot for 6 hours
Flex-strap handle attaches to lid
Easy to disassemble and reassemble lid parts
Higher price tag
Doesn’t fit standing up in standard cupboard or Keurig

This durable travel mug is made from 18/8 professional-grade stainless steel and a BPA- and toxin-free plastic twist-open lid and strap. In testing, it kept liquids hot for 6 hours, a boon for long-haul flights or to take you from school drop-off to pick-up. The manufacturer claims that this model keeps liquids hot for 12 hours, though we noted during testing that by the 12-hour mark the temperature was merely warm. We liked the addition of the flex-strap handle attached to the lid, which makes it easy to transport and comfortable to carry (you could even clip it into a carabiner on a backpack). It comes in a variety of colors, backed by the manufacturer’s color-last coating; you can also customize the design by choosing the color for the cap, strap and bottle. This model is dishwasher-safe, though handwashing is recommended. We liked how easy it was to disassemble and reassemble the numbered lid parts and the rubber gasket slots right in. Because of the design and narrow opening, you’ll need a long-handled brush or sponge to properly reach and clean the interior. Because of its height, it doesn’t fit standing up in a kitchen cupboard or in a standard Keurig coffee maker. Overall, this mug was one of the most expensive models we tested, but its performance matches the price tag and buyers can rest easy knowing it comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Material Stainless steel and BPA- and toxin-free plastic
Lid style Twist-open

Double-walled, vacuum sealed and copper-plated insulation
Non-slip, scratch-free silicone base
Spill-proof slide-lock lid
Comes in more than 40 colors and patterns

We loved that this travel coffee mug had a more traditional mug-like shape and comfortable handle, which is ideal if you like to feel like you’re drinking out of a real mug. It’s made from 18/8 professional-grade stainless steel, has a sturdy slide-lock plastic lid to prevent spills and a non-slip silicone base that’s also scratch- and noise-free when you put it on a countertop. It boasts triple-insulated technology that includes a double-walled, vacuum sealed and copper-plated insulated mug. It lived up to its promise of keeping liquids hot for 3 hours; even after 6 hours it still registered a warm temperature. Note that you’ll need to wait a minute before putting the lid on the mug, or the lid will pop up likely because of the extra-hot temperature. The mug and lid are dishwasher safe on the top rack but are easy to wash and dry by hand, too. If you need a mug that goes from commute to desk, or a good work-from-home coffee mug that’ll keep your beverage hot all morning, this is your best bet. We like the assortment of more than 40 unique colors and patterns, making this a great gift-giving option, too.

Sleek, contemporary and compact design
Excellent leak-proof protection
Keeps liquids hot for 6 hours
Angled sipping spout for ease of drinking
Hand-wash only
Slim opening makes it hard to clean
Rubber gasket challenging to put back on lid after washing

This mug delivers quality construction, heat-resistant performance and a sleek, contemporary design in one compact mug. It’s made from 18/8 professional-grade stainless steel and feels sturdy yet lightweight. Its double-wall insulation promises to keep drinks at their optimal temperature and prevent condensation. After 6 hours, we noted that the liquid temperature was still very hot. We liked the angled sipping spout, which allows the user to easily control the beverage flow. It has excellent leak-proof protection with a user-friendly twist-on lid and a lockable, push-button cover that snaps closed. Note that the push button is located right under the sip opening, which may be cumbersome if you wear lipstick. This model is hand-wash only; because of the slim opening, it’s challenging to get to the bottom of the mug with a regular sponge. The rubber gasket under the lid easily removes but can be challenging to get back in (make sure you have it right-side up). This model also comes in a variety of colors and designs. It comes with a lifetime warranty. If you’re into doing good while you shop, this company also gives back more than 10% of its profit.

Dishwasher-safe No

Versatile design; can double as serving vessel
Spill-proof, magnetized slider-lock lid
Wide mouth doesn't keep beverages hot for as long

This heavy-duty mug is made from durable, professional-grade 18/8 stainless steel and has a sturdy, proprietary magnet-sliding lid that is smooth to open and close yet spill-proof. The style and design remind us of a classic camping-style mug; in addition to using the mug to sip your morning coffee, it could easily double as a serving vessel for camp fare like baked beans and chili or for ice cream sundaes and cocktails at home. The mug keeps liquids hot for 3 hours with the lid on; because of the wide mouth, it doesn’t retain heat as well as other mugs. The mug and lid are dishwasher safe though the wide opening makes the mug easy to wash and dry by hand. Take extra care when washing the slider-style lid by hand to ensure removal of stains and any buildup, which is particularly important if you take milk products or sweeteners with your coffee or tea. As with other YETI models, this mug is made with a no-sweat design, DuraCoat color and shatter-resistant construction and comes with a 5-year warranty.

Kept liquids hottest the longest during testing
Safety lock on lid prevents spills
Streamlined design

Although this mug wasn’t one of our top picks, if you need to keep your beverage hot for a long period of time, this is your mug. During testing, it kept boiling water the hottest the longest; after 6 hours, the water was still very hot, registering nearly 145 degrees F. The heat retention performance is backed by a 5-year warranty.

Lid style Flip-open

What to Consider Before Buying a Travel Mug

Size: Think about how much you need your travel mug to hold; 12 ounces is the equivalent of two standard cups of brewed coffee or tea. The average travel mug size is 16 ounces. Consider how much storage space you have and check listed measurements against the space between shelves in your kitchen cupboard. We found large mugs didn’t always fit in our cabinets. Finally, double-check product descriptions to see if the mug will fit in a standard-size cup holder or backpack pocket.
Material: Mugs made from 18/8 professional-grade stainless steel tend to be the most durable. Some models have rubberized grips on the body and non-slip silicone finishes on the bottom which can be helpful for rushed mornings. Lids are typically made of plastic; latches or button closures can be made from plastic or metal.
Exterior Finish: Some of the models we tested had both lids and mugs that were dishwasher-safe, but some manufacturers noted that only unpainted models are dishwasher-safe. Look for manufacturer claims touting a durable, long-lasting coat or condensation-free finish.
Lid Style: These can include flip lids, thumb-sliding lids, push-button lids and twist lids. If you need something leak-proof, opt for a twist lid. If you need to be able to operate and drink from your mug one-handed, a flip lid or push-button lid is a good bet. Note that mugs with slider-style lids can be tricky to clean, particularly if you take your beverage with milk products or sweeteners.
Leak-Proof vs. Spill-Proof: If you plan to stash your mug in a bag, look for leak-proof claims and observe the construction. Does it have a twist-lid and/or latch closure or button closure? Do you need to press a button to take a sip? Spill-proof (or splash-resistant) means that it’ll keep liquid from sloshing out but isn’t up to the task of preventing leaks when mugs are stowed in a bag.
Cleaning: In addition to noting whether your favorite mug is dishwasher-safe, you’ll want to note whether the lid parts come apart for thorough cleaning, including rubber gaskets and models with special sealing features. Lids can get moldy and smelly if not cleaned thoroughly. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to maximize performance and durability.

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12 Best Insulated, Leak-Proof Travel Coffee Mugs Of 2024, According To Coffee And Travel Experts

Because no one has time for lukewarm java.

Of course, with so many kinds of travel mugs on the market, there are some must-have qualities to keep in mind while you shop, according to Jiyoon Han, CEO and founder of Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters :

Transportability: Can you take it with you and not worry about it spilling or leaking?
Weight and shape: Is it too bulky or too heavy to take with you on the go?
Temperature control: Will it keep your drink at the desired temperature for a long period of time?

Additionally, some mug materials will alter how your coffee tastes. Ceramic, for example, will keep coffee hot without altering the flavor. "In my coffee routine, I will typically heat up my ceramic mug or cup with hot water to bring up the temperature of the vessel before I pour my brew into it," says Han. "This helps maintain the hot temperature of the coffee for longer. Stainless steel can achieve a similar effect in keeping hot coffee hot for a while, but it may impart flavors into the coffee."

Peep a few of the best expert-approved travel coffee mugs below:

Best For Ease Of Use

Frank green ceramic lined reusable bottle.

Best Top-Rated Coffee Travel Mug

Contigo autoseal west loop 2.0 thermal mug.

Best Smart Travel Coffee Mug

Alien brews smart travel mug.

Some thermoses also offer additional features, like a safety lock to prevent leaking, the ability to check the temperature, or even make espresso on-the-go. (Plus, they're all way more sustainable than paper or plastic cups!)

Ahead, find the 12 best travel coffee mugs you can shop right now, according to experts and real user reviews. Happy sipping!

You may be tempted to buy the Frank Green travel mug because it comes in pretty shades, like this lilac purple, but it also gets an A+ for being so simple to use. Sandra McLemore , a travel expert and TV host who's traveled to over 90 countries, loves this mug because it keeps her coffee and tea hot for at least eight hours.

"Frank Green is my go-to brand. They have a unique lid with a push button that opens a small sip hole. When you push the button again, the cup is sealed. It comes in a bunch of different colors, and everyone in my family has their own with their name embossed on them," she says.

Whenever she isn't sipping coffee, McLemore says she also loves using it to keep her adult beverages cold.

You can't have a travel coffee mug list without featuring Contigo. The top-rated brand (with over 72,000 positive reviews on Amazon) is known for creating quality travel mugs that don't leak, while keeping beverages hot or cold for hours on end.

Countless reviewers are huge fans of how leak-proof they are, even if you drop them. "I like that I can trust it not to leak. If I throw it in my purse or backpack, it never leaks. My one-year-old plays with it and never gets into my hot coffee," wrote one customer on Amazon.

If you're looking for something that will let you know how hot or cold your coffee is, Alien Brews' travel mug will do just that. It has a double wall insulated vacuum that will keep your drink at the desired temperature for six to 12 hours. It also has a separator inside for tea bags, in case coffee isn't your thing.

"I’ve been using this mug for a couple weeks now and absolutely love it. It has a soft cozy feel to it with reliable features. I don’t have to worry about my hot coffees getting cold anymore, and it also works to keep my cold drinks cold!" wrote one reviewer. "The lid will show you an accurate temperature of your beverage. The mug is leak-proof, and it fits perfectly in my car’s cup holder."

YETI Rambler Travel Mug

Keri Baugh , a writer who runs Bon Voyage With Kids, a family travel blog, loves keeping her Yeti Rambler on hand. From travel mugs to coolers, the brand is known for their top-notch insulated products.

"It keeps my coffee nice and hot for a long time—well over an hour or so—which really makes it worth the investment," Baugh says. "The travel mug's lid also has four placement options, making it perfect for both righties and lefties. You can place it where it feels most comfortable for you to hold while sipping."

WACACO Picopresso Portable Espresso Maker

At first glance, this looks like a normal travel coffee cup, but nope. It's also an espresso maker. Since it isn't battery or electricity-powered, you can use coffee beans to have hot espresso on-the-go using its built-in cup.

Alex Mastin , founder of coffee education site HomeGrounds, loves using this whenever he's out hiking or camping. "The Picopresso makes espresso that's cafe quality. It's super lightweight, has a built-in cup, and makes delicious coffee. It's also very affordable," says Mastin.

BrüMate Toddy XL

For those who like to keep a day's supply of coffee on hand, this 32-ounce travel coffee mug is a great option. The insulated cup can hold any cold beverage you desire and is designed with a non-slip bottom, so you won't leave rings wherever you're sipping.

Many reviewers say they love that it's large without being too overwhelming. "I absolutely love the size of this cup! It’s not too huge, but it’s not too small, either. I drink my sweet tea everyday at work and this cup is perfect for it! I love the handle! It’s not small and fits perfectly in my hand!" said one customer.

Mr. Coffee Thermos & Thermal Travel Mug Gift Set

At less than $25 for this thermos and mug, you can't go wrong with this Mr. Coffee gift set. The thermos is made with a rubber coating that keeps coffee warm for hours without spilling. Whenever you (or whoever you give this to) are ready, just pour your coffee into the included mug. You can create your own café experience, no matter where you are.

One reviewer said that the shiny red color of these makes them the perfect gift, while another said it was perfect for work days. "Exactly what I was looking for my mornings at work!" they wrote.

Hydro Flask All Around Tumbler

Your mug collection isn't complete without a HydroFlask. The brand is also a fave of Baugh's because the tumblers are made with double-wall vacuum insulation to keep your beverage warm and a press-in lid that further traps in heat while preventing spills. Hydroflasks are also dishwasher-safe, so you can throw them into the wash without fear.

Reviewers are big fans of how comfy it feels to hold the travel cup. "I love this cup! I bought a second one for my husband and he raves about it to all his friends. This cup is very comfortable in your hand which is really nice. I have let a few people use the cup and they all comment on how comfortable it is to hold the cup," said one customer.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

Whenever Mastin is traveling to a hotel, he loves bringing the Zojirushi thermos with him. It's made with a two-step lid release process to keep excess condensation from spilling. It's also designed with a safety lock that prevents the lid from accidentally opening.

"They make incredibly high-quality coffee thermoses, and they keep coffee hot for the entire day. I can fill it at 7 a.m. and still have a piping hot drink at 5 p.m. They're also incredibly durable and are very much a 'buy it for life' type purchase," he says.

STOJO Collapsible Travel Cup

Alicia Cintron, who owns a travel planning company and considers herself a full-time digital nomad, loves the Stojo Cup because it's a space saver in addition to being leak-proof and dishwasher-safe. "This cup is so easy to travel with and can be used for a commute, on a hike, wherever! And when you are done, you can wash it out, collapse it, stow it away, and carry on with your day," she says.

At just $15, it's also very affordable, and made with a sleek design. You can grab the silicone cup in shades like this pink, mint green, and denim blue.

IRON °FLASK Grip Coffee Mug

This coffee mug from Iron Flask is made with BPA-free stainless steel that's non-toxic, so you should hand wash it only. But the extra work is worth the quality coffee you'll be drinking from this travel mug. The cup is made with double-wall insulation, so your thermos won't sweat and get your stuff wet. The clear lid is also leak-proof.

This Iron Flask travel mug will keep your beverages cold for 18 hours, and hot for four. With over 5,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it's a top-rated pick. "I have several Iron Flask water bottles, tumblers, and travel mugs and I love them. The leak-proof lids work great for me as I throw them in my backpack and walk to work. Never once had a leak. These mugs keep liquid hot for a very long time and they are all so pretty," said one customer.

MiiR Vacuum Insulated Tumbler

If you want to drink your coffee and rest easy knowing you're also helping the environment, try this vacuum tumbler from MiiR. Their in-house production stems from their dedication to reducing emissions, maximizing product lifespans, and adhering to ethical product manufacturing.

If you need more convincing, just know it's expert-approved too. "MiiR is a trusted and reliable company for sustainable, functional, and beautiful tumblers and travel mugs," says Han.

Jasmine Gomez is the Commerce Editor at Women’s Health, where she cover the best product recommendations across beauty, health, lifestyle, fitness, and more. When she's not shopping for a living, she enjoys karaoke and dining out more than she cares to admit. Follow her @JazzeGomez .

Sabrina is an editorial assistant for Women’s Health. When she’s not writing, you can find her running, training in mixed martial arts, or reading.

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Home & Kitchen
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Beverage Warmers

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Warmer + Cappuccino Machine

Warmer + Cappuccino Machine,Black

Warmer + Coffee Maker

Purchase options and add-ons

About this item.

Made in the USA
17 watt mug warmer for use with coffee, tea, hot cocoa & more
Easy to tote and take anywhere
Surface easily wipes clean
On/off switch with indicator light
Longer power cord for increased mobility. Refer to the PDF attached below in Technical Specification for the User Manual

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Genius!!! Love it!!! Worked great. Full review

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From the manufacturer

Experience the taste

Since 1970 the Mr. Coffee brand has been doing one thing and one thing only. .. brewing coffee. No one has served cup after delicious cup to more Americans than us.

For us, bringing a rich coffee experience into your home is our top priority. Along with coffee makers, we are here to share everything coffee with you.

Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer

Keep your favorite mug of coffee, tea or cocoa hot when you want it. The convenient on/off switch with on light indicator lets you know when it's hot. With its extended cord length to use almost anywhere, this will be your favorite gadget!

Stop the worry of hot beverages going cold.
Easy to tote, take and use just about anywhere.
Surface easily wipes clean.

Keeps all your favorite hot beverages warm

Looking for specific info?

Product information, warranty & support, product description.

Meet your new favorite coffee accessory: the Mr. Coffee Mug Warmer. Place your favorite cup of joe, tea, or cocoa on the plate, and it'll keep it nice and hot for hours—so you can enjoy it at your leisure. It features a convenient on/off switch with an indicator light, and an extended power cord so you can use it just about anywhere..

Manufacturer Contact Information

For any technical issues contact Manufacturer

Top Brand: Mr. Coffee

Compare with similar items, customer reviews.

5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 61% 16% 11% 5% 7% 61%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 61% 16% 11% 5% 7% 16%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 61% 16% 11% 5% 7% 11%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 61% 16% 11% 5% 7% 5%
5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 61% 16% 11% 5% 7% 7%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the value of the beverage warmer, saying it's okay for the price. They are also satisfied with performance. However, some customers have reported durability issues with the paint scratching off and chipping. They also have issues with coating. Opinions are mixed on quality, appearance, size, and temperature adjustment.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the performance of the coffee warmer. They mention it works well with standard sized coffee mugs and does not affect the function. Some say that the product may turn off after a couple uses but it does not effect the function of the product.

"... Still worked great , but clearly the thicker the soup, the longer the heating time...." Read more

"...radiant barrier can be fancy or expensive, but you can fashion a very serviceable and even decent looking one with practice out of about a foot of..." Read more

"...n't keep the drink hot at all, but a flat-bottomed, traditional mug style works beautifully ...." Read more

"...The quality and performance were of great . I will definitely be ordering in the future." Read more

Customers like the value of the food or beverage warmer. They say it works well, is okay for the price, and is worth buying.

"...surface is 3 and 3/8 inches diameter, and it's well made and inexpensive ...." Read more

"...It is fairly cheap . I got it for just under 10 dollars, but I had to watch and wait...." Read more

"...This hot beverage warmer is very safe to own and operate. It is worth every penny , as it will last you for many years...." Read more

" Little expensive " Read more

Customers are mixed about the temperature adjustment of the product. Some mention that it keeps their coffee nice hot, with very little transfer of heat from underneath the unit to the surface it is on. However, others say that it does not heat up hot liquids, it has only the one temperature option, and that it is basically a hot plate that can burn someone if they don't know.

"...holds one soup can well (not too close to the top), and conducts heat exquisitely . I have no clue is a hard and thick ceramic coffee mug would work...." Read more

"...I drink my coffee slowly so it’s perfect for me. Stays a good temperature without getting too hot. Would recommend to others." Read more

"...The cup loses other forms of heat too, but by just solving the radiant heat loss problem, you will have solved the entire problem of your warmer..." Read more

"...very, very little transfer of heat from underneath the unit to the surface it is sitting on, so no danger of burning or warping wood or finished..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the food or beverage warmer. Some mention that it does a great job keeping a drink at the right temperature, and is well made. Others say that the quality seems to have gone down, the finish on the hot plate is not at all durable, and the product flakes off with little use.

"...With the breaking apart , the halves would no longer stay together tightly enough that it seems unsafe to use now...." Read more

"...the actual heating surface is 3 and 3/8 inches diameter, and it's well made and inexpensive...." Read more

"...Almost 6 months later, I will say it is showing some wear , with the paint wearing off at spots, which is just cosmetic, but functionally, it is..." Read more

"...in sculpting it into something that looks alright, plus it recalls some good hikes . . ...." Read more

Customers have mixed opinions about the appearance of the food or beverage warmer. Some mention it looks sleek and simple, while others say it's not very nice looking, not fancy, and the heating surface is unsightly.

"...Yes, they can be a little on the heavy side. And no, they may not look chic . Np.Also, look for cups/mugs with nice flat bottoms...." Read more

"...It was pretty - a nice chrome. It would turn itself off when accidentally left on - and this happened at least twice each year.-..." Read more

"...n't necessarily impact the device's core functionality, it does affect its aesthetics and raises questions about long-term durability...." Read more

"...Loved that it was completely flat and had no lip, but reviews said it was best used with flat bottom mugs. WHO HAS FLAT BOTTOM MUGS?..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the size of the food or beverage warmer. Some mention it's the perfect size for a regular coffee cup/mug, it takes up almost no space, and is big enough to hold just about any size coffee cup. Others say that it only fits a standard size mug and not a bit bigger one. They also wish the surface was a little larger and easier to clean.

"...I use an enamel Coleman aluminum cup, which holds one soup can well (not too close to the top), and conducts heat exquisitely...." Read more

"It works well. My only disappointments are the base is too small for large mugs that sit over, not on, the heater and, on the first use, a ring of..." Read more

"...This Mr Coffee beverage warmer is really a mini hot plate . If you follow the tips above, your beverage will stay nice and hot for hours on end...." Read more

"...No, it does not easily fit Bath & Body Works 3-Wick Candles, although they can still sit on top of the lip and heat up...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the durability of the food or beverage warmer. They mention that the paint on the product scratches right off, chips, and starts scratching off with the first use. The coating on the metal plate starts scratch off easily after a few uses.

"...button press (power/temp high/temp low) broke and the button assembly fell into the unit ...." Read more

"...So the paint scratches look really bad ...." Read more

"...its primary function of keeping beverages warm, the potential paint melting issue and lack of temperature control prevent it from receiving a higher..." Read more

"...The Negative:* as noted by other reviewers, the heating surface began to chip immediately ...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the coating of the food or beverage warmer. They mention that the paint peels, chips, and wears off after a few uses.

"...With prolonged use, the paint may experience melting and peeling issues ...." Read more

"...6 months later, I will say it is showing some wear, with the paint wearing off at spots , which is just cosmetic, but functionally, it is still good...." Read more

"...However, the top layer on the plate itself started to peel off almost immediately, which has never before been an issue...." Read more

"...the fat that the black surface of the warmer always scratches and peels off immediately but the unit still worked...." Read more

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9 Best Espresso Machines, According to Testing

Pull a perfect shot of espresso at home every time.

three espresso machine models from ge, breville and delonghi with two shots of espresso made

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall Espresso Machine

Breville barista touch impress espresso machine with grinder.

Best Value Espresso Machine

Capresso café ts touchscreen espresso machine.

Best Professional Espresso Machine for Home

Breville barista pro espresso machine.

Espresso machines can come with a pretty hefty price tag, so whether you're making an espresso for yourself, family or guests it should pull a perfectly crafted shot and suit your needs. This is why in our most recent roundup, we tested over 20 espresso makers and brewed more than 60 cups of espresso to find the best espresso machines. We tested many types of espresso machines, from super-automatic espresso makers to capsule machines and everything in between. We chose winners that level up the at-home espresso experience but left out machines that were more complicated and geared toward coffee hobbyists.

When it comes to testing espresso machines, we assess how well they make espresso consistently and how easy the machines are to use. We also note extra nice-to-have features such as built-in milk frothers and coffee bean grinders that add convenience but may not be necessary to make a great cup of espresso.

The name "Impress" says it all. Our pros were, in fact, impressed with this Breville machine. We loved it so much that we gave it a spot in our Kitchen Gear and Coffee Awards. It’s no surprise since Breville is a brand that consistently performs well in our Lab tests. This new machine takes making espresso drinks to a new level with a touchscreen that guides you through the drink-making process with images, tips and instructions. We were in awe that the machine told us how much espresso to brew and what temp to steam the milk. It produced a tasty espresso shot with a nice layer of crema.

If you choose not to use the preset drink-making options, you can adjust the grind size and water temperature to personalize your shot of espresso. In addition, there are eight settings for the amount of froth as well as temperature choices from 110 to 170 degrees for milk-based drinks like cappuccinos, so your drink can really be tailored to your preferences.

Feel like a true barista by manually frothing your milk, or there’s a hands-off option for days when you want more convenience. We were pleased that the espresso maker had options for the type of milk being frothed including dairy, almond, oat or soy milk. In our tests, we found the controls were responsive and easy to use. The machine parts were easy to take apart for a thorough cleaning, but most parts needed to be hand-washed.

Bottom line: The touch screen makes this machine easy to use for a beginner or expert. It's great for someone who wants a simple personalized shot of espresso or other drinks with no fuss or someone who wants to experiment with grind size and water temperature.

At around $130, the Café TS Touchscreen Espresso Machine is more affordable than many espresso machines, and it performed well in our Lab testing. Our experts appreciate that the machine pre-infuses the espresso grinds with water to saturate them before brewing. This helps to extract the grounds evenly, and in our tests, we found this led to a smooth extraction and a lot of crema on top of the espresso.

Surprisingly, for a lower-priced espresso machine, it has some nice extra features, like a warming plate on top to warm up your mug before pulling a shot. We found this model's touchscreen easy to navigate with two-shot, hot water and steam options. The included scoop ensures you measure out your grinds accurately each time you pull a shot. While this machine offers a steaming wand to whip up your favorite coffee shop beverage, you will need to purchase a steaming pitcher separately for whipping up frothed milk.

Bottom line: This is a good option for someone who doesn't want to spend hundreds of dollars and wants a basic espresso machine without a lot of extra features .

If you’re very particular about your coffee, the Breville Barista Pro Espresso Machine with a built-in grinder is for you. The intuitive LCD display allows you to choose from five temperatures and a whopping 30 grind sizes, and it shows grinding and extracting progress animations . The attached steam wand allows you to froth your milk exactly how you like it.

Like other Breville espresso machines , this model comes with two single-walled and two double-walled filters. The double-walled filters are great for producing a thick layer of crema even with older espresso beans or pre-ground coffee. We recommend playing around with the settings, starting with the defaults and then tweaking as you go to create your perfect espresso. All parts are easy to wash and wipe down, and in our tests, we were especially impressed with how quickly the system heated up compared to other models.

Bottom line: Those who want to fine-tune and experiment with their espresso will appreciate the numerous grind sizes and temperature options.

Breville Bambino Plus

Not only does the Breville Bambino Plus make a tasty espresso, but the compact size won't take up a lot of counter space. One of our experts has used this at home for years and loved the high-quality espresso without sacrificing too much space. It comes with two dual-wall filter baskets for pre-ground coffee beans, a trimming tool, a tamper and a milk jug to be used with the attached steam wand to froth your own milk.

The brew settings allow you to choose between a single espresso or a double espresso, plus steamy, frothy or very frothy milk. In our tests, this machine made espresso that was strong with a crema that wasn't overbearing. In the Lab, we found that this machine heated quickly, wasn’t too loud, had a small footprint and could be wiped down easily.

Bottom line: This is an excellent machine that produces one shot of espresso at a time and doesn't take up as much space as other bulkier machines.

De'Longhi Nespresso VertuoPlus Deluxe Coffee & Espresso Machine

Our pros appreciate how easy the Nespresso VertuoPlus is to use. With a light press of the lever, the lid opens and closes with ease. To brew, you simply push the button and wait for it to produce a delicious drink. It's also rather foolproof: The capsule machine uses a special system to detect the barcode on the capsule and then brews the drink exactly how it’s supposed to brew. Choose from five drink types: espresso, double espresso, gran lungo, mug and alto ( perfect for your travel mugs ).

In our tests, every cup of espresso and coffee came out hot and well-rounded with a luxurious crema. Plus, the position of the water tank can be moved to fit your counter space. Another noteworthy perk is that Nespresso recycles used pods if you send them back to the company, and the brand's newest Vertuo machine is made with 54% recycled plastic. Finally, you can't beat the price, and it requires barely any cleanup. Bottom line: This machine offers tasty espresso or coffee from the convenience of a capsule without the hassle of tamping, brewing and cleaning up.

RELATED: The Best Nespresso Machines, Tested and Reviewed

De'Longhi Dinamica Plus Fully Automatic Coffee Maker & Espresso Machine

This super-automatic espresso maker is one of our favorite machines. It grinds your beans and produces excellent, hot espresso with a thin but creamy crema. We were particularly impressed with the unique milk hopper and frothing capabilities and found it easy to fill, attach and clean. Since it's detachable, you can store the unused milk in the fridge for later. When you choose a drink that incorporates milk, the machine indicates the frother setting and gives you time to select it from three options before frothing begins. It also reminds you to run the cleaning stage for the milk container.

The Dinamica has a touchscreen that’s highly responsive and easy to operate. There are 16 drink options on the machine including latte, espresso, cappuccino, flat white, true brew over ice, regular coffee and more. You can also save your favorite drink settings for one-touch brewing.

Bottom line: This Dinamica is for someone who wants to replicate the coffee house experience at the push of a button and doesn't want to be hands-on pulling espresso shots or making drinks.

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine

Beginner baristas will appreciate the balance between automated and manual shot pulling, so you can feel like a pro with the ease of automating some of the process. This machine has a built-in coffee grinder so you can experiment with the grind size and learn exactly how you prefer to make your espresso shot. You’ll feel like a coffee pro by tamping the espresso (there may be a slight learning curve) and steaming milk with the built-in frother.

Our kitchen pros tested this at home and love how intuitive it is to use. One of our analysts actually learned how to make espresso shots and froth milk on this beginner-friendly espresso maker. We appreciate the low-pressure water that’s applied at the start of the espresso shot to gently wet and expand the grinds to create an even extraction.

Bottom line: This machine provides the barista experience without all the guesswork. This is a great espresso maker for beginners who want to improve their skills over time or experiment with their coffee.

Philips 3200 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

This super-automatic espresso machine from Philips has a large, intuitive touchscreen control panel that makes it easy to select and brew drinks. It grinds whole beans for five different drink presets: espresso, cappuccino, latte macchiato, black coffee and Americano. Our testers found the drinks to be flavorful but light-bodied and were especially impressed with the cappuccinos and lattes.

It has a removable, dishwasher-safe milk hopper rather than a wand, which pours the froth directly into your cup, so frothing milk is simple, hands-free and easy to clean up. This model also includes a water hardness test strip so that you can adjust the system based on your water's hardness level. An AquaClean filter reduces water hardness and prevents the build-up of limescale in your machine to ensure that each cup of espresso is excellent.

Bottom line: This Philips machine for someone who isn't looking to spend thousands of dollars but still wants the ease of a fully automatic machine that makes a handful of drinks.

RELATED: The Best Latte Machines, According to Testing

Café Affetto Automatic Espresso Machine & Frother

The Café Affetto has a sleek design that minimalists can appreciate. It's not only the style that's design-forward, this compact model also has Wi-Fi connectivity. Plus, it's one of the best automatic machines you can get for under $400. This smart espresso maker freshly grinds and brews the espresso shot for you. It connects with the SmartHQ app to help you customize the temperature and grind dosage for your desired strength.

The top of this model has an easy-to-read, simple control panel with the following settings: espresso, Americano, my cup or hot water. "My cup" is automatically set to ristretto, but you can change it to your favorite coffee drink in the SmartHQ app. In our tests, this machine produced a really beautiful espresso that was silky with a golden brown crema.

The water reservoir and hopper are hidden so it doesn't look clunky and helps it maintain its compact size. The milk frother tilts to the side so you can froth easily into the included pitcher and operates with a steam button that responds relatively quickly. In our tests, milk heated quickly and foamed nicely. We also appreciate that the frothing pitcher has measurement markings which is not common. You can also remove the milk frothing wand for easy cleaning, and the entire exterior is easy to wipe down without extra knobs or buttons. Take note that the brand recommends avoiding using dark roast coffee beans in the machine because they tend to contain more oils that can adhere to the machine's components and potentially cause damage.

Bottom line: A sleek and modern-looking machine that makes a few espresso drinks, it's a good pick for someone who wants a basic machine that has a slim, compact design.

How we test espresso machines

taking the temperature of a shot of espresso

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we evaluate each espresso maker for ease of use, brew time, consistency, taste, temperature and noise level.

We've tested over 40 espresso machines across the last few decades to find the best ones for making great espresso at home. In our most recent test, we rounded up well over 20 espresso machines in the Lab, brewing more than 60 cups of espresso. Here's how we test.

For performance, we test the temperature of multiple espressos in a row and time each one to evaluate if it's consistent.
We also note the quality of the crema. Our experts taste the espresso to rate the flavor and body of each drink.

testing milk froth and cappuccino function

If the machine includes a milk frother, we test it with both skim and oat milk to assess the quality of the frothing. Where applicable, we use the machine's preset options to make cappuccinos and lattes to assess the overall quality of the drink.
When it comes to ease of use, our favorite machines are easy to set up, simple to use without a user manual, quick to heat up and reasonably fast to brew.

The best machines in our tests produced a hot, flavorful cup of espresso. Our favorite shots had nice depth and weren't too bitter or acidic and had a crema that was smooth without any noticeable air bubbles.

What to look for when shopping for the best espresso machine

An espresso machine is an investment — especially if you want one with all the bells and whistles. So it's important to consider the type that fits your needs.

✔️ Type : There are several ways to make espresso with manual, semi-automatic, automatic, super-automatic and pod machines all available to the home barista.

• Manual machines require finely ground beans that are scooped into a portafilter and tamped down. The filter is attached to the brew head and a lever is used to manually pull water through the grounds. It is the most customizable method but arguably the most difficult to master.

• Semi-automatic machines are similar to manual machines in terms of preparation, but they operate with a button or dial that automates the water flow instead of a lever, and the size of the brew is controllable.

• Automatic machines use a button instead of a lever to brew espresso. The size of the espresso or coffee drink is automated and often programmable. This method offers more consistency than a manual or semi-automatic machine, making them super easy to use. This style tended to nab top scores in Lab tests.

• Super-automatic machines are a step above automatic machines. In addition to automated and programmable coffee sizes, they can also grind beans, measure them out and often tamp them for you. These tended to be our favorite in Lab testing for their do-it-all performance.

• Capsule machines use pods filled with pre-measured coffee to make espresso or other coffee drinks. They offer the most consistency and hands-off ease of use.

✔️ Size: Consider how much space you have to allocate to your espresso maker. The more customizable ones are usually bigger, while the smaller ones are typically more straightforward with fewer brewing options.

✔️ Price: A good espresso maker with features like a built-in grinder and multiple drink options can be expensive; a simple machine is usually more affordable. However, some espresso machines that seem straightforward can be costly due to higher-quality materials and more effective heaters, milk frothers or technology.

✔️ Pressure: The amount of pressure exerted upon coffee grounds is measured by BARs or barometric pressure. While some machines will have up to 19 BARs, a machine that exerts around 7 to 11 BARs of pressure into the espresso will produce a good extraction.

Extra nice-to-have options for the best espresso machines

✔️ Coffee grinder: Grinding your coffee beans right before pulling a shot is ideal for a good cup of espresso. Espresso machines with built-in coffee grinders are convenient, reduce some mess and ensure you have freshly ground coffee beans each time. One downside is that built-in grinders are hard to fix if they break and often lead people to purchase an entirely new machine.

✔️ Milk frother: There are two common types of milk frothers: a hand-frothing wand that requires manual milk frothing in a pitcher or an attached milk container that the machine utilizes to froth milk and add it directly into your cup. With a manual frothing wand, you can practice your latte art, but it does take some practice to learn how to froth milk properly right from the start. An attached milk container with automatic frothing takes out all the guesswork, giving you a cappuccino at the right temperature with a good amount of foam automatically. ✔️ Clean-up: Depending on the model, espresso machines tend to be easy to clean. Some super-automatic machines take the work out of routine cleaning, while more manual machines require daily cleaning of the portafilter, milk frother and more. Some super-automatic machines have milk containers that connect to the machine with a straw, which can be tricky to clean, and large drip trays that can be cumbersome. You will also need to descale your machine every couple of months (or as recommended by the manufacturer) to ensure your espresso machine is operating properly and your coffee is tasting great.

How espresso machines work

Espresso makers work by using pressure to quickly push hot water through a tightly packed portafilter of finely ground coffee. The added pressure and fast brew time are what create the espresso's thicker consistency and crema layer.

The espresso's look and taste are influenced by many different factors. Some of these factors include the type of coffee used and how tightly it's packed, grind size, water temperature, pressure and more. Because all of these can vary, each shot can be highly customizable depending on the machine.

Home baristas who like to try different coffees and experiment with their settings may want to choose a machine with more options, whereas those not looking to hone in their coffee settings may want a more automated machine.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she oversees all testing and content related to cooking and making drinks. She conducted the last side-by-side test of espresso machines and uses at least one daily. Her favorites are easy to use and clean and — most importantly — deliver a rich and balanced cup of espresso.

Jamie Ueda's first job at the Good Housekeeping Institute was testing a variety of consumer products, and one of her first tests was drip coffee makers . Since then she has tested and written about many kitchen-related and cooking tools, especially drip coffee and espresso makers as well as coffee accessories. She has a passion for coffee and has completed rigorous coffee courses from the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) in coffee brewing, barista skills and sensory tasting. She is also a judge for GH's annual Kitchen Gear and Coffee Awards .

Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal .

Jamie Ueda is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing. She has held leading roles at both mid-size consumer goods companies and one of the most notable and largest apparel brands in the world. Jamie has contributed to several of the GH Institute Labs, including Kitchen Appliances, Media and Tech, Textiles and Home Appliances. In her free time she enjoys cooking, traveling, and working out.

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Best Copper Mugs

It’s right there in the name: this is the go-to mug for Moscow mule fans.

This set includes four mugs and a range of extras, such as four copper straws with a cleaning brush for said straws plus a jigger and an ebook. The bottom of the mugs are smooth to avoid damaging your table.

The mugs and straws must be hand-washed. The handles are a little small.

This set of six copper mugs has everything you need to serve Moscow mules from your home bar.

Hammered mugs made of copper-plated 304 stainless steel with a luminous mirror finish. Food-safe and won't rust or tarnish. Large 18-ounce capacity. The set includes six copper mugs and straws, a straw brush, a double jigger, and a bottle opener. Keeps drinks ice cold.

The handles of the mugs can be flimsy.

Food-grade copper with brass handles that are well-made and look nice.

Hammered design. The thumbrest on the top of the brass handles makes them easy to use and comfortable to hold. A set of two for a decent price that can make a nice gift. Mugs are lined with FDA-approved food-safe lacquer. Arrive in great condition. Nice balance.

Not as heavy a gauge as some others available.

PG Copper/Rose Gold Plated Stainless Steel Moscow Mule Mug

With a stainless steel lining, you can be sure this set of copper mugs will always shine.

The set includes four stainless steel-lined, copper-plated mugs with durable brass handles. Ample 19.5-ounce-capacity mugs are great for serving large or heavily garnished drinks. All of the glamour of a copper mug but with the versatility of stainless steel.

The copper finish may begin chipping or peeling after heavy use.

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

Buying guide for best copper mugs.

Updated September 2023

A Moscow mule is a quintessential cocktail that is easy to make, but it’s incomplete without a proper copper mug to keep it cool. A set of elegant copper mugs allows you to serve this drink to your guests in style – or to treat yourself after a long day.

While you can serve a Moscow mule in a collins glass, a copper mug is the most common vessel for this refreshing cocktail. Most copper mugs are 16 ounces, but larger and smaller mugs are also available. To keep your drinks colder longer, look for double-walled copper mugs. There are some health concerns surrounding 100% copper mugs, so many mugs are plated with nickel, steel, or a laminate on the inside.

Copper mugs range in price and quality, but a good set should last you for decades. For more about copper mugs and Moscow mules, our buying guide has all you need to know.

How to make a Moscow mule

What is a Moscow mule? It’s a refreshing cocktail served over ice that has a kick of ginger and a hint of lime, making it a great way to cool off. On the other hand, ginger has a festive taste to it, so you can enjoy mules around the holidays as well. Or why not just drink them year-round?

To make a Moscow mule, you will need:

● Vodka ● Ginger beer (typically a spicy variety) ● Limes ● Ice (cubed or crushed) ● Mint leaves (optional)

First, fill your copper mug with your desired amount of ice. Add 4 ounces of ginger beer and 1.5 to 2 ounces of vodka. Finally, add a 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice. Stir gently, and garnish with a slice of lime and mint leaves. Enjoy!

Copper mugs may seem like fairly simple drinking glasses, but there are a few factors to consider before you buy.

Copper has a high conductivity, which allows a copper mug to quickly match the temperature of the drink inside. With an iced drink, a copper mug is cold to hold in your hands and cold to your lips when you take a sip.

If you’re shopping for a copper mug, the best option is probably 100% copper, right? Not necessarily. There are a few health concerns surrounding the use of copper with acidic beverages (like Moscow mules, which contain lime juice) since it is possible for the copper to dissolve and leach into your drink. This is the case even with food-grade copper.

Copper poisoning can lead to nausea, fever, dizziness, or fainting. That said, there is little research as of yet linking Moscow mules to copper poisoning. It is unclear how long a liquid with the pH of a mule would need to sit in a copper mug for a dangerous amount of copper to leach into the drink. If you want to play it safe, there are plenty of copper mugs that are lined with nickel, tin, or stainless steel – though these materials will make the inside of the mug a different color than the outside.

The gauge of the copper varies from one mug to the next, and low-gauge copper is thicker and more substantial feeling than high-gauge copper. Some copper is coated with a lacquer to preserve the shine of the metal.

Copper mugs may be rounded, flared, or straight in design, and most have a hammered texture. There are square handles, round handles, and other handle shapes as well, each of which feels different in your hand. The best style for a copper mug is the one you like best. If you want matching mugs, purchase them in a set. Copper mugs are usually sold in sets of two or four.

Some copper mugs are handmade, which can give them more of a classic look. These mugs may be less uniform, but that’s part of their appeal. Handmade mugs are generally more expensive.

The typical size for copper mugs is 16 ounces, but there are many mugs as small as 10 ounces or as large as 20 ounces available. Bear in mind that you may have to adjust mule recipes to maintain proper ratios if you opt for an unusual size of copper mug.

Double-walled construction

Some copper mugs have a double-walled construction, which helps to keep your beverage cold longer and your ice frozen. If you plan to enjoy your mules out in the sun, these mugs are a good option, though they tend to be more expensive.

Accessories

There are a number of accessories that may come with a set of copper mugs. These include:

● Copper or steel straws: for sipping and stirring ● Shot glass or jigger: to help you accurately measure your liquor of choice ● Recipe book: to give you new drink ideas ● Coasters: to help prevent condensation from collecting on your tabletops ● Stirring spoon: for mixing ingredients

Copper mug prices

Copper mugs that cost $5 to $10 are usually individual mugs that are not made entirely of copper. In many cases, the mugs are made of a metal like stainless steel and coated in copper to give a traditional look and feel. Individual copper mugs rarely come with accessories.

For $10 to $35, you’ll find a variety of copper mugs and copper mug sets made of 100% copper or lined with other materials for safety. Many of these mugs are handcrafted and accessories may be included with sets. Sets of two or four copper mugs are common in this price range.

Copper mugs and copper mug sets for $35 and up are usually handcrafted and may come with several accessories. There’s not always a noticeable increase in quality at this price, but there are many classy designs available.

There are many variations on the Moscow mule if vodka isn’t your drink of choice.

● A Kentucky mule uses bourbon along with ginger beer and lime juice. ● A Mexican mule swaps tequila for vodka but keeps the ginger beer and lime juice. ● A French mule is cognac, ginger beer, lime juice, and Angostura bitters. ● A gin-gin mule features gin and ginger beer with either lime or lemon juice. ● What’s a dead man’s mule? It’s absinthe, cinnamon schnapps, ginger beer, and lime juice. Take out the schnapps and it’s simply a Bohemian mule. ● You can also get creative and use fruits like blueberries, cranberries, or watermelon for a bit of extra flavor.

Q. Can I use ginger ale instead of ginger beer in a mule? A. You can, but you may find that the signature bite of the mule is missing as ginger ale is much milder than spicy ginger beer. However, there is a variation on the traditional mule that uses ginger syrup instead of ginger beer.

Q. Can I make Moscow mules in a shaker? A. It’s not recommended. A shaker will cause the ginger beer to lose carbonation, and your drink may end up a foamy mess. Stick to stirring mules in your copper mugs.

Q. Can copper mugs be washed in the dishwasher ? A. No. You should always hand-wash copper mugs. Not only does this prevent scratches, but it can also prolong the life of the mugs. You should also dry your mugs as quickly as possible with a cloth.

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12 Things To Do In Moscow: Complete Guide To A Unique Idaho City

M oscow, Idaho, is a small city with plenty to offer lovers of the outdoors and culture aficionados. Moscow is the county seat of Latah County in the panhandle region of Idaho. It’s known as the home of the University of Idaho, which is a great campus with galleries and gardens for visitors to explore.

Moscow’s landscape is particularly unique as it is set in the Palouse region , an area between Idaho, southeastern Washington, and even Oregon, known for its peculiar rolling green hills, which make it one of the most beautiful vistas in the state . d.

UPDATE: 2023/08/22 16:57 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are More Things To Do While In Moscow, Idaho!

This article has been refreshed with new stops in Moscow, Idaho, as well as tips, tricks, and things to experience in town. From fun waterslides to nature preserves to beer, here are all the reasons Moscow should be on the itinerary this fall and beyond!

Things To Do

Here is everything travelers need to know about planning a great trip to Moscow, Idaho, including the best time of year to visit, where to eat and drink, and the best activities.

Check Out The Historic McConnell Mansion

One thing to do while in Moscow, Idaho, is to go see the McConnel Mansion , located in Moscow's historic neighborhood. Here is where a home built by the former governor sits, now working as a place to learn more about Moscow, as well as see how life and architecture looked back then.

Constructed in 1886, this museum also features period rooms and decor, so it's certainly worth seeing for people in the area.

Address: 110 S Adams St, Moscow, ID 83843
Hours: Dependent on season/tour

Soak Up The Sun At Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

The next thing to do in Moscow, Idaho, is to check out the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center . Here is where families or groups can enjoy the outdoor seasonal water park with a lazy river, large pool, waterslides & interactive play area.

This aquatic center boasts a great summer itinerary, making it perfect for travelers with children.

Address: 830 N Mountain View Rd, Moscow, ID 83843
Hours: Open daily from 12 PM to 7:30 PM (Open at 11 AM on Saturdays and Sundays)
Tickets: Children 3 and under FREE, Children 4-17 $5.75 including tax, Adults 18-64 $7.75 including tax, Seniors 65+ $5.75 including tax

Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute

Another idea while in town would be to visit the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute. Here is where people visiting Moscow can explore a 26.2-acre nature preserve in the city, as well as walk around and enjoy the fresh air.

Address: 1040 Rodeo Dr, Moscow, ID 83843
Hours: Open Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM

See A Show At The Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

The next idea for a Moscow, Idaho, visitor is to catch a performance at the city's Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre . Here lies a restored historic theater that offers classic films, community events, and a variety of stage performances.

Address: 508 S Main St, Moscow, ID 83843

Cycle Some Of The Palouse Bike Trails

A very popular tourist activity in Moscow is to rent a bike and cycle through some of the Palouse bike trails. A popular trail is the 7-mile Bill Chipman Palouse Trail between Pullman in Washington and Moscow.

Admission: Bike rental costs will vary; check out Paradise Bike Rentals
Address: The trail end points are SE Bishop Blvd. (Pullman, WA) and Farm Rd. (Moscow, ID)

View The University Of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Spend an afternoon checking out the countless plants from across the world in the University’s Arboretum & Botanical Garden . The garden is open every day, from dawn to dusk.

Admission: Free
Address: 875 Perimeter Drive MS 2281, Moscow, Idaho

Head To The Moscow Farmer’s Market

Visiting the Farmer’s Market is the big thing to do in Moscow and is incredibly popular with locals and visitors alike. It’s held from May to October from 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. Check out the fresh produce and enjoy some local performers entertaining the crowds.

Address: 101-155 W 4th St, Moscow, ID 83843

Camp Out In Robinson County Park

This campsite is great for those who would like to immerse themselves in nature but also want to be close to town, and the campsite in Robinson is just a ten-minute drive from downtown Moscow. This park has plenty of trails and picnic spots to enjoy.

Admission: $20 a night to camp
Address: 5168 Robinson Park Rd, Moscow ID 83843

Related: 8 Idaho State Parks To Add To Your Scenic Bucket List

Check Out The Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center

For those wanting to learn about the history of the beautiful Appaloosa horse breed, native to the Palouse region, the Appaloosa Museum & Heritage Center is a perfect place to spend the afternoon.

Here is where guests can tour the Davis-Gillman Activity Center, Gift Shop, and Picnic Area, all while learning more about this area's rich culture.

Address: 2720 Pullman Rd, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
1912 Center: Check out some local art and learn about cultural initiatives in Moscow
Address: 412 E. Third St. Moscow, ID 83843

Tour The Third Street Gallery

Next up, guests of the city of Moscow, Idaho, can check out the Third Street Gallery. The Third Street Gallery is located on the second and third floors of Moscow's beautifully renovated and historic City Hall, making that another nice thing to see while here.

Address: 206 W 3rd St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA
Hours: Seasonally/dependent on art and creators

Skate At The Palouse Ice Rink

Another fun stop in the Moscow area is the Palouse Ice Rink , a fun place to visit for all the family for some ice skating and hockey in the winter and rollerblading during the summer.

This could be a nice location to bring the family, especially for people with young kids.

Admission: Adults - $10, Children 6-17 - $8.00, 5 and under free
Family Admission (up to 5 members) - $35.00
Address: 1021 Harold St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

Taste Local Moscow Craft Beers

Moscow has a pretty extensive craft beer culture, and it's well worth making a day of visiting some of the local breweries. Here are several great breweries to check out.

Moscow Brewing Company : Be sure to visit Moscow’s first brewhouse for some great history and even better beer

Address: 630 N Almon St #130, Moscow, ID

Hunga Dunga Brewing Company - Offering unique IPAs, Stouts, and so much more.

Address: 333 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID 83843, USA

Rants & Rave Brewery - A brewery and a grill, what’s not to love?

Address: 308 N Jackson St, Moscow, ID, USA

Best Time To Go To Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer months, the temperature can reach into the 90s and can be quite dry. The winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and the area receiving some snowfall. Spring and fall are mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s.

The best time of year depends on what visitors have planned for the trip. The months of June, July, and August are great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Related: Drive Mesa Falls Scenic Byway & See Idaho's Most Stunning Views

However, in the winter months, there are local mountains and resorts suitable for snowboarding, skiing, and snowshoeing for those interested in winter sports. The Palouse Ice Rink is a popular spot for locals and visitors during the winter, too, and also offers some family-friendly activities the whole year round. Even a scenic road trip can be enjoyable during Idaho's winter .

The city tends to be a bustling hub of activity during its festivals, like the Rendezvous in the Park music festival, which usually takes place on the third weekend in July, or the Moscow Winter Carnival, which takes place in early December.

Best Ways To Get Around Moscow Idaho

Moscow is a very walkable city, and most of the main destinations for tourists can be accessed on foot, especially during the summer. Getting around on a bike is a great option; Moscow has 36 miles of paved trails, so renting a bicycle in town could be a good choice for visitors.

Paradise Bike Rentals is a convenient bike rental shop on Main Street.

Moscow also has a public bus system called the Sustainable Moscow Area Regional Transportation or SMART transit that covers two loops, one in the west and one in the east of the town, and the fixed routes are free.

There are multiple taxi and rideshare companies in Moscow, and Uber and Lyft are also available. Here are some local Taxi company options:

Moscow Taxi
Pegasus Taxi

It’s possible to rent a car coming from the regional Pullman Moscow airport from companies Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget.

Where To Eat In Moscow, Idaho

Moscow, Idaho, has some great spots for food, drinks, and coffee if visitors know where to look. The food options in Idaho tend to pleasantly surprise visitors. As it's a student town, there are more than a few fun bars too.

Best Breakfast in Moscow, Idaho

One World Café, Breakfast Club, Varsity Diner

Delicious Lunches in Moscow, Idaho:

Shari’s Café and Pies, Einstein Bros Bagels, Stax

Fantastic Dinners in Moscow, Idaho:

Nectar, Tapped - Taphouse & Kitchen, Lodgepole

Great Coffee Shops in Moscow, Idaho:

Café Artista, Bucer's Coffee House Pub, Steam Coffee

Fun Bars in Moscow, Idaho:

John’s Alley Tavern, Mingles Bar & Grill, Neat Whiskey Bar

Where To Stay In Moscow, Idaho

There are a number of hotels and rentals in the city, although some travelers also opt to stay in the nearby Washington state town of Pullman. Here are a few options in Moscow itself:

Highly rated hotels in Moscow Idaho

Best Western Plus University Inn : Room rates at the Best Western Plus University Inn start from $120 per night

Amenities: Swimming pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant, and bar
Address: 1516 Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moscow : Room rates at the Fairfield Inn & Suites start from $140 per night

Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, and fitness center
Address: 1000 West Pullman Road, Moscow, Idaho 83843, United States

Mid-Tier hotels in Moscow

The Monarch Motel Room rates at the Monarch Hotel start from $100 per night

Amenities: garden/chill-out area
Address: 120 W 6th St, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Hotel Mccoy Pullman Room rates at this property start from $140 per night

Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking
Address: 455 Southeast Paradise Street, Pullman, WA 99163

Related: Idaho The Potato State: Why Not Sleep In A Hotel Shaped Like One?

Budget hotels in Moscow Idaho

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Moscow Pullman : Room rates at La Quinta Inn & Suites start from $130 per night

Amenities: Free breakfast, airport shuttle, shuttle to local attractions
Address: 185 Warbonnet Dr, Moscow, ID 83843, United States

Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow / Pullman: Room rates at Super 8 by Wyndham Moscow start from $80 per night

Amenities: Mobile check-in, Wi-Fi, free coffee & breakfast Item
Address: 175 Peterson Drive Pullman Hwy and 175 Peterson Dr, Moscow, ID 83843

Tips For Visiting Moscow, Idaho

Moscow is a University city in north central Idaho and has a population of just over 25,000. It’s about 8 miles east of the Washington State border. It’s been home to the University of Idaho since 1889.

Moscow is served by a regional airport, The Pullman Moscow Airport is four miles west of the city, and the closest major airport is Spokane International Airport in Washington, located within 90 miles east of the city.

From here, visitors can rent a car or arrange a shuffle to get to Moscow; it will take about an hour and 40 minutes.

Related: Explore Idaho's Capital City: The Ultimate Travel Guide To Boise & Things To Do

Moscow is located along Highway 95, which runs north and south through the city. It’s also possible to travel to Moscow by bus from Spokane and Seattle. It’s good to know a little bit about the unique landscape travelers will get to explore when visiting Moscow. It’s part of the Palouse region, which encompasses parts of north central Idaho, southeastern Washington, and a little bit of Oregon.

Its distinctive and peculiar rolling green hills are made of a material called loess, which is mainly dust and silt blown in over thousands of years from the southwest.

After periods of deposition and erosion in harsh weather, unique dune-like shapes formed in the landscape. The Palouse region is a major agriculture zone, mainly for grain production, and it's also a stunning place to experience as a tourist.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Moscow, Idaho

A perfect day in Moscow will start with a great breakfast, so head to the popular One World Café for a delicious bite to eat and then get ready to take on some of the incredible Palouse biking trails. Rent a bike for the afternoon and take the Bill Chipman Palouse trail nearby by Pullman and back.

Don’t forget to bring a camera. Head for lunch at Stax for some soup and sandwiches, and then visit the University of Idaho campus for a stroll through the arboretum and Botanical Garden. While on campus, check out some of the famous landmarks, like the Kibbie Dome or the Prichard Art Gallery.

In the evening, enjoy a fancy dinner at Lodgepole and polish the evening off with a drink at John’s Alley Tavern.

12 Things To Do In Moscow: Complete Guide To A Unique Idaho City

IMAGES

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These are the seven best travel coffee mugs of 2024. Best travel coffee mugs. $29 at Amazon. Sizes 12, 16 ounces. Colors 8. Price. $29. $29 at Amazon.
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Best travel coffee mugs in 2024 — tested and rated

Best budget and durable

How we test

The quick list

1. MiiR Flip Traveler

2. Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

3. Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

4. THERMOS Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

5. Yeti Rambler

6. Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug

7. Teabloom

8. bioGo 16 oz Reusable Coffee Cups

9. Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

10. Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

11. Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug

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Most Popular

The Best Travel Mug

Everything we recommend

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

Buying Options

Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug (16 ounces)

OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set

The research

How the Zojirushi mug has held up

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Meet your guides

Further reading

This Inexpensive Water Bottle Is Meant for Cyclists, But It’s Great for Travelers, Too

Our Favorite Mugs

How to Clean a Travel Mug or Water Bottle

We’ve Recommended This Travel Mug for a Decade. It’s Still Going Strong.

The Best Travel Coffee Mugs, Whether You Walk, Ride, or Drive

The best travel coffee mug to toss in your bag: Zojirushi

The best dishwasher safe travel coffee mug to toss in your bag: Brumate

The best travel coffee mug for the car: Yeti Rambler with Magslide Lid

How we tested travel coffee mugs

What we looked for

Other travel coffee mugs we tested

The takeaway

More of the best gear we've ever tried

Best Insulated Cups of 2024

Best Insulated Cups

Sharing is Nice

Stanley The Flowstate Quencher H2.0 Tumbler

Coffee Talk

The 12 Very Best Travel Mugs

In this article

What we’re looking for

How to clean

Best travel mug overall

Best travel mug for cappuccinos

Best travel mug for iced coffee

Best travel mug for commuting

Best travel mug with a handle

Best less expensive travel mug with a handle

Best travel mug with a replaceable lid

Best no-leak travel mug

Best travel mug with open hole lid

Best customizable travel mug

Best glass travel mug for brewing tea

Best stainless-steel travel mug for brewing tea

Some more travel vessels we’ve written about

Our experts

Deal of the Day

Shop with Google

The Best Travel Mugs to Keep Drinks Hot or Cold

Best Overall Hydro Flask Coffee Mug With Flex Sip Lid (16 Ounce) Read more

A Good Wide-Mouth Bottle Klean Kanteen TKWide Insulated Mug (16 Ounce) Read more

A Great Mug Hydro Flask Coffee Mug (12 Ounce) Read more

Camp Classic Ello Campy Travel Mug (16 Ounce) Read more

A Note on Lead Soldering

Best Overall

A Good Wide-Mouth Bottle

A Great Mug

Camp Classic

For Coffee Purists

A Classy Paper Cup Replacement

Honorable Mentions

Avoid These Travel Mugs