The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Coffee Tumbler: Unveiling the Top Picks and Essential Factors to Consider

Are you tired of lukewarm, spilled, or flavorless coffee on your travels? We have the ultimate solution for coffee lovers on the go: the best coffee tumbler. Whether you're looking for a spill-proof design, thermal insulation, or a handle for easy gripping, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll unveil the top contenders for the title of the "best coffee tumbler." So get ready to take your caffeine fix to a whole new level of convenience and enjoyment.

Best overall travel coffee mug

The Yeti Rambler HotShot is the best travel coffee mug overall. With impressive temperature retention and durability, it is perfect for any coffee drinker. It is also leakproof.

Pros

• Doesn’t leak
• Reliable heat retention
• Fits in most cup holders
• Durable
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons

• Cap takes a moment to screw on

Specs

• Weight: 0.9 pounds
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Size: 12, 18 ounces

The Yeti Rambler HotShot performed exceptionally well in all our tests. It is incredibly durable and can withstand accidental drops without any damage. Its double-walled insulation keeps coffee hot for a long time, with just a 2-degree temperature drop after an hour.

The HotShot cap is unique as it allows coffee to flow out all around the hole, making it easy to drink from any side. It also passed our spill test with flying colors, remaining leakproof even when flipped and shaken. The only downside is that the cap can be a bit tricky to open with one hand, but it becomes easier with practice. The mug comes in various colors and sizes, perfect for different preferences. Both the cap and body are dishwasher-safe.

Best travel coffee mug with a handle

If you prefer a travel mug with a handle, the Hydro Flask Mug is the best choice. It has a comfortable grip and an easy-to-open lid.

Pros

• Large comfortable handle
• Vacuum-insulated
• Lid is easy to take on and off
• Durable

Cons

Specs

• Weight: 0.5 pounds
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Size: 6, 12, 24 ounces

Travel mugs with handles can pose some challenges, but the Hydro Flask Mug overcomes them all. It has double-walled vacuum insulation that keeps coffee hot for up to six hours, with only a 3-degree temperature drop in an hour. The mug is also incredibly durable, surviving our drop test without a scratch or dent.

The press-in lid is easy to secure, and the opening is large enough to fit a straw, making it convenient for iced coffee lovers. While the mug is not 100% leakproof, it passed our flip test with minimal seepage. It may not fit easily in standard cup holders, but it rests securely on top. The mug is not dishwasher-safe, but its performance and comfort make it an excellent choice for daily use.

Best ceramic travel coffee mug

For a ceramic travel coffee mug, the Ello Ogden is the best option. It is dishwasher-safe, easy to use, and comfortable to hold.

Pros

• Easy to grip
• Doesn’t hold the flavor of previous drinks
• Microwave-safe
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons

Specs

• Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Materials: Ceramic, silicone
• Size: 16 ounces

Ceramic travel coffee mugs, like the Ello Ogden, do not retain the flavor of previous drinks. This affordable mug has a silicone sleeve with a geometric pattern, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The lid is easy to secure, and the drinking spout opens and closes smoothly with one hand. The mug is also microwave-safe, allowing you to reheat your drink conveniently. It fits in most cup holders and is dishwasher-safe. While it is not leakproof, its performance and sleek design make it an excellent choice for those who prefer ceramic mugs.

Best iced coffee travel mug

The Simple Modern Voyager Tumbler is the best mug for iced coffee. It is lightweight and provides excellent cold retention.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Excellent cold retention
• Included straws
• Dishwasher-safe

Cons

• Lid needs to be tightly secured to be leakproof

Specs

• Weight: 0.4 pounds
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Size: 12, 16, 20 ounces

The Simple Modern Voyager Tumbler is perfect for keeping iced coffee cold. It retained its cold temperature even after an hour, with no melted ice. The tumbler comes with two reusable bisphenol-A-free straws that fit easily into the opening. The flip-up drinking spout cover can be securely snapped into place when not in use, and the screw-on lid provides excellent leakproofing when tightly secured. The tumbler is lightweight and comes in a range of colors and sizes. While it may scuff slightly when dropped, it is not noticeable. The mug is dishwasher-safe and should fit comfortably in most cup holders.

Best no-spill travel coffee mug

The Contigo Westloop 2.0 is the best no-spill travel coffee mug. It has multiple safeguards to prevent leaks, making it perfect for on-the-go use.

Pros

• Backup leak protection
• Comfortable grip
• Vacuum-insulated
• Cup holder compatible

Cons

• Slightly cumbersome to use (you have to press a button to drink)

Specs

• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Size: 16, 20, 24 ounces

The Contigo Westloop 2.0 is a reliable option for spill-free travel. Its autoseal technology prevents leaks and spills, automatically sealing between sips. The lid also has a lock button for added protection when the mug is in your bag.

The mug is incredibly durable, withstanding drops without any damage. It is vacuum-insulated and maintains the temperature of your drink. The slightly inward curve around the neck makes it easy to carry, and it fits perfectly in most cup holders. The only downside is that you need to press a button to drink, which may be slightly inconvenient. The body of the mug is not dishwasher-safe, but the lid is.

Best dishwasher-safe travel mug

Pros

• Dishwasher-safe
• Cup holder compatible
• Vacuum-insulated
• Extensive color selection, including patterns

Cons

• Need to press a button to drink

Specs

• Weight: 0.8 pounds
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Size: 16, 20 ounces

The Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug by Stanley is the best dishwasher-safe travel mug. It is cup holder compatible and has excellent heat and cold retention.

The mug has a sturdy stainless steel frame that withstands drops without any damage. It also passes our leak test with no spills. The mug retains the heat of your drink, losing only 1 degree of heat after an hour. It is also great for keeping iced coffee cold. The entire bottle, including the lid, is dishwasher-safe. The only inconvenience is the need to press a button to drink. However, if you're looking for an easy-care mug that keeps your drinks at the right temperature, this is the perfect choice.

Contigo Luxe Stainless Steel Tumbler With Spill-Proof Lid and Straw

The Contigo Luxe Stainless Steel Tumbler with Spill-Proof Lid and Straw is recommended by travel blogger Kevin Mercier. It keeps drinks warm for up to seven hours or cold for up to 18 hours. The autoseal technology prevents leaks and spills, making it easy to drink without worrying about accidents. The tumbler has a wide mouth, making it easy to clean, and it is dishwasher safe. It is available in two different colors and three different sizes.

Stanley Master Unbreakable Thermal Vacuum Bottle

The Stanley Master Unbreakable Thermal Vacuum Bottle is a high-quality option designed for regular coffee drinkers. With its QuadVac insulation, this bottle can keep up to 44 ounces of liquid at the ideal temperature for days. Warm drinks can stay hot for up to 40 hours, cool drinks can stay cold for up to 35 hours, and ice can be kept for up to six days. It features a steel-lined stopper for zero plastic contact, a rubberized grip for easy transport, and is dishwasher-safe. Additionally, it comes with a lifetime warranty.

The CamelBak Horizon Tumbler is a lightweight option available in 12 colors and four different sizes (12 ounces, 16 ounces, 20 ounces, and 30 ounces). It offers double wall vacuum insulation to keep both hot drinks warm and cooler drinks cold. The mug is dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean after each use.

Arctic Tumblers 20-Ounce Tumbler

According to Anderson, her favorite travel mug is the Arctic Tumbler. It is available in two sizes (20 ounces and 30 ounces) and can keep drinks hot or cold based on your preferences. It also comes with its own straw. The mug comes in 15 stylish colors, allowing you to customize its appearance. Although not the cheapest option on the list, Anderson found it to be reasonably priced.

RTIC The Get Out and Go Series Tumbler

The Get Out and Go Series Tumbler from RTIC Outdoors is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts. It is designed for hunters, hikers, and those who spend time in the great outdoors. This tumbler is available in a 20-ounce size and offers features such as double-wall vacuum insulation, an easy-grip base, and a splash-proof lid with a comfortable sipping port.

Hydro Flask 22-Ounce Tumbler

The Hydro Flask 22-Ounce Tumbler is a well-known option for its impressive insulation capabilities. It can keep drinks hot or cold and conveniently fits in most car cup holders. Made of stainless steel, this tumbler is also BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. Its sleek design makes it easy to hold while on the go.

Haushof Travel Mug

The Haushof Travel Mug is a 24-ounce stainless steel travel mug that offers excellent insulation capabilities. Its double-wall vacuum insulation ensures that your drinks remain hot or cold for extended periods. The flip lid with a wide mouth provides a convenient sipping experience. With a variety of color options, including black, navy blue, pink, and seafoam green, this mug is both affordable and customizable.

Others you should know about

Great affordable option

THERMOS

Stainless King Travel Mug

The Thermos Stainless King Mug is an affordable and durable option. It only loses a few degrees of heat after an hour and passes the leak test. However, it may be difficult to reassemble the lid after dishwasher cleaning, and the large handle may not fit all car cup holders.

Great if you want a large mug

YETI

Rambler 14-ounce Mug

$30 at Dick's Sporting Goods

The Yeti Rambler Mug is a durable option with a secure lid. It retains heat well but may not fit in most cup holders due to its size.

Great for design enthusiasts

The Soma Ceramic Mug is a stylish option with a leakproof design. However, it doesn't retain heat as well as the Ello Ogden and is fragile. It is not dishwasher-safe.

What to Consider Before Buying a Travel Mug

• Size: Consider how much liquid you want your travel mug to hold. 12 ounces is equivalent to two standard cups of coffee or tea. The average travel mug size is 16 ounces. Make sure to check the dimensions to ensure it fits in your storage space and cup holders.
• Material: Stainless steel mugs are typically the most durable. Look for rubberized grips and non-slip finishes for convenience. Plastic is common for lids, while latches and closures can be made of plastic or metal.
• Exterior Finish: Some models have dishwasher-safe lids and mugs. Unpainted models are usually dishwasher safe. Look for durable and condensation-free finishes.
• Lid Style: Choose flip lids, thumb-sliding lids, push-button lids, or twist lids based on your preferences. Twist lids provide better leak-proofing, while flip and push-button lids are ideal for one-handed use. Slider-style lids may be more challenging to clean.
• Leak-Proof vs Spill-Proof: If you plan on carrying your mug in a bag, prioritize leak-proof options with secure closures. Spill-proof mugs can prevent liquid from splashing out but may not be completely leak-proof when stored in a bag.
• Cleaning: Check if the mug and lid can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher. Ensure that the lid parts can be disassembled for thorough cleaning to avoid mold and odors. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.

Our Expertise

Clarissa Buch Zilberman is an experienced food writer with a strong reputation. She has contributed to notable publications such as Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, and Travel & Leisure. For this article, she utilized editor-tested insights and conducted thorough research on top-rated travel coffee mugs.

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The takeaway

If you want a travel mug that can keep your coffee hot or your cold brew cold for hours, the Zojirushi stainless steel mug offers the best heat retention capabilities among the mugs we tested. It is also completely leak-proof, making it convenient to carry in a bag. The Brumate Nav, while not as effective at heat retention, features a secure lid and is dishwasher-safe. For car commuters, the tumbler-style Yeti Rambler with the Magslide lid is recommended. Although it's not leak-proof, this vacuum-insulated mug is dishwasher-safe and minimizes spills while keeping your coffee accessible during your commute. 

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup

If you need a travel mug that can be compact when not in use, consider the Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup. While technically not a mug, this cup is perfect for travelers, including those in cars. With a capacity of 12 ounces, the Stojo cup is made of silicone material suitable for both hot and cold beverages. It is dishwasher-safe, leakproof, and BPA-free.

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In conclusion, finding the best coffee tumbler that suits your needs can make a world of difference in your daily coffee routine. Whether you're looking for a spill-proof option, a stylish ceramic mug, or a tumbler that can keep your iced coffee cold for hours, there are plenty of great choices out there. From the sleek and practical Contigo Luxe Stainless Steel Tumbler to the durable and reliable Stanley Master Unbreakable Thermal Vacuum Bottle, you now have the inside scoop on some of the top coffee tumblers on the market. So, before you head out the door with a lukewarm cup of coffee, consider investing in one of these fantastic options and elevate your coffee experience to a whole new level.