Best Portable Espresso Maker Choices For Travelers in 2023

We have to admit our addiction to caffeine at the start of the day wherever we are, even if in the middle of nowhere. For those who enjoy espresso shots on travels, business trips, or in the office, the best thing we can hope for is a portable espresso maker.

Though they might not have anything comparable to the standard espresso makers at the coffee shops, these little devices can surprise you when they produce decent espresso with intricate true crema valve. Such versatility will certainly make your experiences on the road or adventure more enjoyable and unforgettable.

The ubiquity of portable espresso makers in the market has not gone unnoticed. There are many products and features that can fatigue decision-makers. Some might have a feature that the others lack yet lack a certain trait that others have. All this fuzz will fry your brains and make everything foggy.

Now, you let that be our problem because we are here to help you get through the process of finding the perfect portable espresso maker for travellers.

Our Top Picks

Understanding of Portable Espresso Makers

What Is A Portable Espresso Maker?

An espresso maker is all about pressure. This device forces pressurized water through coffee grounds to brew a thick and concentrated coffee form known as espresso. The term “portable” points out the size of the small device for movability.

Types Of Portable Espresso Makers

There are two types of portable espresso makers: manual and automatic.

The manual type enables you to take full control of the whole brewing process. However, if you lack that hand strength and dexterity, this may be a bad idea. Also, it is noteworthy that you will need an external heat source to boil your water beforehand. 

The automatic type requires electricity which means you will need to plug it in or use a battery to operate it. Usually, this type comes with more versatile functions like self-cleaning cycle and self-heating.

Benefits Of Portable Espresso Makers

Espresso makers make a perfect travelling companion for coffee connoisseurs. They bring so many benefits to the table including:

• Portability – Compact sizes and lightweight easily fit into a backpack to carry around.
• Power-Saving – The manual type will save so much energy. Meanwhile, the automatic type only requires to be recharged once in a long while.
• Excellent Espresso – The resulting espresso is just barista-style excellent.
• Ease of Use – Add water, fill coffee grounds or k-cup coffee, and pump pressure to make your espresso.
• Affordable Price – Portable espresso makers have different price ranges, but generally, they are quite affordable.

List of The Best Portable Espresso Makers For Travelers in 2023

Staresso portable espresso maker delivers you the rich taste of espresso with thick crema layers the same way you’ll get from a real Italian cafe. It is compact in size, 8×2.7 inches, and light in weight, which is .97 lbs. However, it can hold up to 80 ml of water with 0.54 oz ground coffee.

You can also use the Staresso with Nespresso coffee pods and ground coffee. Without electricity, you can effortlessly make manual espresso using the pumping system that is newly patented and can give 15-20 bar pressure! You can enjoy your favourite express anytime, anywhere with access to hot water.

Also, when it comes to cleaning, just rinse it a few times and pack it away. Finally, it is built using BPA-free material with the best quality. Speaking of quality, the stainless steel pressure pump and coffee chamber are very durable and high in standard.

What we like:

• Rich and thick crema for real espresso
• Compact, lightweight, and portable
• Compatible with Nespresso pods
• Easy to use and clean up
• BPA-Free material and premium quality

Wacaco Minipresso GR supports manual operations and helps you get your favourite coffee using a huge range of espresso beans. It is small in size, light in weight, and very versatile. No matter where you are, be it at home, office, or a long trip or adventure, you can enjoy up to 50 ml of real authentic espresso by just adding the boiling water in the Minipresso GR. 

When it comes to operation, it is super simple:

1. Use the integrated scoop to add ground coffee of any espresso beans to the filter basket.
2. Level the grind by applying slight pressure, then fill the water tank with hot water.
3. Unlock the piston from its travel position before pumping several strokes to pressurize, and then extract your espresso with a thick layer of crema. 

The Moocoo manual espresso maker utilizes advanced pumping technology and can reach a stable pressure point of 20 bar during extraction. With such a capability, any brewing methods of yours achieves a fantastic result with a perfect crema.

This espresso maker prevents grounds from leaking using its built-in high-precision microfilter holes, giving you a pure and particle-free coffee beverage. You can discover unlimited flavours to the newest 2-in-1 versatility extraction design that is compatible with K-cup or ground coffee as your preference.

The flexibility to try new coffee flavours is never this easy. You can expand every single shot of espresso to a whole bunch of different coffee drinks such as cold brew, cappuccino and ice cream coffee, latte, and americano. 

In short, you can bring this espresso maker along with your camping trip, a hiking trip, travelling, on a boat, or even to your office. Also, it comes with a set of built-in scoop and BPA-free cups that are tough and impact-resistant.

Besides, the coffee mug that it comes with is a dual wall, made of PCTG plastic as the outer wall and its inner wall is made of BPA-free high-boron silicon glass. The Moocoo is very simple to use since it does not require a battery or electricity to work, making it very environmentally friendly. Also, the cleaning process is pretty easy, simply put it into the dishwasher and rinse it. 

This Conqueco portable espresso maker which is a traveller-friendly espresso machine is compatible with both hot in cold water.

• With hot water, just press the button for 5 seconds before getting your aromatic coffee.
• With cold water, just press the button for 2 seconds for the heating of the water to start and in the next 8 to 12 minutes, you will get your coffee.

One important note on this espresso machine is that it can self-heal and automatically pump the coffee for you. It is perfectly compact in size and can easily fit in a bottle or cup holder. Keep it in your backpack when you go travelling, a hiking trip,a camping trip, or any other outdoor activities. Also, this espresso machine is equipped with a 12V and 7A car charger for you to heat and charge in outdoor settings. For indoor settings, you can use the 12V and 2A.

Finally, it is automatic, so when you wish to clean, simply wash the coffee cup and let it wash by pressing a switch button for 5 seconds to run it without capsules. 

Look at the upgraded version of the Minipresso. The Wacaco Nanopresso portable espresso maker has an amazing super pumping system that creates stable pressure during the extraction of up to 18 bar of pressure. No battery or electricity is needed. This pressure will surely bring your coffee to the next level.

You just need to add boiling water into the tank and then prepare your coffee and finally pump it manually. You can see how easy it is to operate the Nanopresso and it is especially easy to prepare your beloved cup of coffee anywhere you want.

But, what is the difference between Nanopresso and Minipresso?

Simply put, Nanopresso only requires 15% less force to pump its coffee compared to the Minipresso. With its ergonomic design and shorter length, this Nanopresso will make a great travelling companion of choice.

The fold at Wacaco really did their homework, engineering this bad boy to be extremely light and yet can fit for travelling. Also, its construction will give you a reassuringly solid feel. Moreover, speaking of capacity, the tank of this Nanopresso can hold up to 80ml water and it is lined with a detachable cup that protects it. These parts have a heatsink pattern for absorbing heat in order to protect your hands from burning when carrying them. 

The Trimm handheld portable espresso machine comes with a thermos vacuum insulated double wall that can keep your coffee warm after brewing. This mini espresso maker is the right choice for you because it effortlessly brews you a nice cup of espresso without electricity, slow coffee machines, or long queues at any coffee shops.

Its small size is a perfect fit for a travelling companion. Keep it in your backpack or luggage or purse and it is always ready to brew you your espresso anytime, anywhere. It does not need cords, electricity, or batteries, you can use this mini espresso machine by pouring coffee grinds and hot water on top of it and manually pumping the water through the appliance.

Finally, the detachable cup is there for you to pour your coffee in and you can also drink your beverage directly from it as well. And, when it comes to cleaning, just disassemble its parts and pieces and hand wash each of them. 

The Nanopresso again! What distinguishes this product from the rest of other appliances is that it is innovated specifically for the brewing of perfect espresso. “Be Your Own Barista” is a buzz phrase for such an amazing product.

To achieve your perfect espresso, you only need to tamp your finely ground coffee hard enough before adding it into this Nanopresso. Once you have done, watch the magic happen.

The easy operation and innovative construction will assist you in brewing your favourite cup of espresso with a dense layer of crema every single time. Let us make it clear to you, this espresso machine is manually operated and it is never that hard. It is easy and simple to enjoy your quality espresso. That’s a win-win.

No matter where you are, the quality of coffee from the manual operation of this Nanopresso is one of the best, from the first sip to the last drop. The next time you need a shot of espresso, you will only need ground coffee, hot water, and the Nanopresso. 

The Simpresso Portable Espresso Maker generates authentic espresso with a rich layer of crema and requires only 19 bar pressure tops. As long as you can have access to hot water, enjoying a cup of espresso is as easy as any time and anywhere else, be it a hotel, home, office, hiking, camping, travelling, hiking, or even on a boat or an aeroplane.

You will get all the accessories included in this set when you make a purchase such as a detachable transparent cup, smart capsules Nespresso pod adapter kit, scoop, instruction book, and waterproof travel bag.

In terms of size, the Simpresso is super compact, super lightweight, making it super portable. Its specs include .78lb in weight and 8.4×3.1 inches in size. Also, you can use the Simpresso with the Nespresso coffee pods and your favourite homemade ground coffee.

Without electricity, you can effortlessly use the manual espresso to make your coffee thanks to its newly patented lever action pumping system. Finally, to clean this product, you only need to disassemble some of its components and clean them one by one with water and a mild cleanser if needed!

The Mixpresso manual operated espresso maker gives you an espresso cup that is rich and thick with foam for a really strong coffee that you can get from a normal espresso machine. As long as it is a capsule, you can use whatever types you want.

You can use Nespresso original pods or you can use Mixpresso pods or any other company you like. This Mixpresso requires no complications. No batteries, no electricity is needed. Whenever and wherever you get to spend time with your friends and family you can almost effortlessly make a manual espresso.

Furthermore, when it comes to size, the espresso maker is light in weight and very compact for easy keeping. In addition, the newly patented pumping system will help assist you in getting your strong Italian espresso with a thick cream layer. 

Our number 1 spot is none other than the Wacaco Nanopresoo Portable Espresso Maker. This Nanopresso is a powerful espresso-making tool that requires no batter and no electricity thanks to the newly patented pumping system. You can also have a nice cup of espresso to enjoy with the manual force.

You can pump 18 bars of stable pressure maximum during extraction for a strong espresso that most home espresso machines can’t deliver. All you need to do is add boiling water into the tank, prepare coffee, and start pumping.

The ergonomic design, lighter weight and shorter length of Nanopresso make a great choice for a travelling companion. The overall length of this espresso machine is 15.6 cm and the weight is just 336 g.

In addition, the water tank of this Nanapresso has the capacity to hold 80 ml of water and its detachable cup line and protect it. It also features a heatsink pattern for absorbing and protecting your fingers from burning when carrying them. 

Buying Guides To Choosing the Best Portable Espresso Makers For Travelers in 2023

Portability

All coffee makers are not made to be portable in the same way, so you have to consider that. There are espresso machines that are huge and bulky and can be cumbersome to bring along, whereas there are espresso makers that can fit right in your backpack’s pockets. Naturally, when you look for the best portable espresso maker, you are opting for one that takes up little space when carrying.  

Durability

Travelling is not the warm and fuzzy kind of experience you usually get staying at home. It involves a lot of movement and you should be very careful about the possessions you have. Sometimes things fall and break and that is not something you would count as a positive experience.

That is why it is always a good idea to opt for a portable espresso machine that is durable and resistant to these kinds of situations. Delicate glass coffee makers are not the right way to go, so you should steer clear of them. Instead, you should look for any espresso machines that have reinforced materials like silicone, plastic, or “aluminium for guaranteed durability”.

Brewing Time

When traveling you need your coffee brewed quick and easy and that is why you should find any appliance that can brew your coffee in 30 seconds to 5 minutes. If you have to wait half of your journey time just for a brew, then your portable coffee maker is pointless to have.

Ease of Cleaning

Surely, you don’t want to make coffee in a stained pot! It is never good coffee. You should look for a coffee maker that is easy to clean. That is the answer, especially when you are camping in the jungle, or somewhere on the mountain with limited access to luxuries such as a hot tap or dishwasher. The ideal portable espresso machine here should be easy to disassemble and simple to clean quickly.

Volume

This one can be tricky. When considering volume, the first thing that comes to mind is more and more. But remember, the more coffee you can make means the bigger the capacity and the bigger the capacity means the bigger and bulkier the coffee maker is.

As mentioned earlier, we don’t want it to be so big it is cumbersome to bring along. Therefore, it is a good idea to be extremely critical in this part whether you want it easily portable or you want to be able to brew more coffee.

Power

Some espresso makers require battery and electricity, which makes things easy for you to brew your coffee but can be complicated with batteries and electricity and all, whereas some require only manual work, which makes things a bit hard for you to brew your coffee but can be simple for the trip.

The key here is to consider whether to take the easy brewing methods out while sacrificing the simplicity of your trip or take the simplicity of your trip while sacrificing your easy brewing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Do Portable Espresso Makers Work?

The operation of portable espresso makers depends on the model. However, it is mostly very simple. The basics of operating such an appliance include

• Inserting coffee grounds in the tank,
• Adding water and possibly other ingredients,
• Brewing and pressing it until ready.

What Are the Types of Espresso Makers?

There are two types of espresso makers, manual and semi-automatic.

The manual types require you to do everything by yourself and that also includes pressing the coffee. But no worries, they usually have instruction manuals.

The semi-automatic types require electricity to run some of their functions including warming water, generating pressure, and/or adjusting steam levels. They can be a bit more expensive than the manual types, but they usually have shorter lifespans.

THE VERDICT: What’s The Best Portable Espresso Makers?

A portable espresso maker is an amazing device to keep you coffee-hydrated during long trips and adventures. There is not much to do to make yourself a nice espresso because this device doesn’t allow that. All you need to do with it is add some boiling water, add some coffee grounds, and pump the pressure. After that, everything is ready for serving.

The espresso machines come in many shapes and sizes. Some with big capacity can be a bit bulky, while some with less are compact in size and convenient for keeping in backpacks and luggage. Some require only a manual pump, while some need to be recharged or plugged in.

To help you get the best ideal coffee makers, we wrote this article with the best options to help you get up to speed. We also pointed out some criteria you should use when opting for a perfect espresso maker. Because of its many features and functions, it is good to keep these things in mind, portability, durability, brewing time, ease of cleaning, volume, and power.

At this point, you might wonder which is the best overall. We can tell you that the Wacaco Nanopresso Espresso Maker Combos balances versatility, pumping system, electric brewing, and summertime.

To know why Wacaco Nanopresso should be on our top list. Check out the video here.

References

• Top 15 Best Portable Espresso Maker Reviews in 2023 | thedreamcafe | Robin Stephens
• The 13 Best Portable Travel Coffee Makers [2021] | upgradedpoints | AMAR HUSSAIN 
• 5 Best Portable Espresso Makers: 2023 Awesome Buyer’s Guide | gadgets-reviews