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The Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug (And Why Real Tea Lovers Need One)

By Mindy Fox

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

I can hear my better half, Steve, now: “Do you really need a dedicated travel tea mug? Can’t you brew a cup of tea and then use any ol’ travel mug to take it on the go?”

Yeah, babe, you could. (And he probably knows what’s coming next.) But I like to have the right tool for the job, and there is good reason to be particular when it comes to a travel tea mug.

Sure, I could place loose tea leaves in a single-use paper steeper or basket steeper and use my favorite travel coffee mug for the job , but travel tea mugs are made with built-in tea steepers (ones that allow you to tightly close the lid while your tea steeps), which means no waste and a hotter finished brew. Plus, coffee mugs tend to take on coffee flavor over time. A dedicated travel tea mug helps keeps a serious tea drinker’s tea tasting pure and clean.

In my quest for the best travel mug to take my cuppa on the road, I sought out a leak-proof model that ranked high in the heat retention department . I also wanted a mug that was easy to grip and to drink from. And because it’s nice to have stylish gear, one that looked good, too. Here are my winning picks and how I tested:

The Very Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug: The Tea Spot Everest Tea Tumbler

The Everest’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation kept 22 ounces of tea hot and fresh tasting, and its screw down BPA-free top was terrifically leak-proof. I fell hard for its rugged adventure-meets-urban-chic look, and had a hard time deciding which of its four stylish colors I liked best.

The Everest also won my vote for smart design and functionality with an innovative screw-top and sipping mechanism that stay connected to the mug while you drink (which means when you remove the part of the lid that allows you to drink your tea, it won’t go tumbling down a cliff, through a subway grate, or down between that impossibly narrow space between the seat of your car and your cup-holding console).

The stainless steel steeper basket on this model provided ample room for water and tea leaves to mingle as my tea steeped, and its small holes kept fine leaves from passing into my tea, making a clean and full-tasting brew. The easy to grip exterior is much like that of the popular Hydro Flask water bottle so, if you’re a Hydro Flask fan , you’ll likely love The Tea Spot Everest, too.

The Everest fit well in a tote bag and was also comfortable to carry on the outside of a backpack, using a carabiner clip . And, like all of the travel tea mugs I tested, it can be used for iced tea as well as plain or infused fruit (aka spa) water.

Everest Tea Tumbler

The Next Best (aka Runner Up) Travel Tea Infuser Mug: The Tea Spot Voyager Tea Tumbler

The Voyager, also by The Tea Spot, won my runner-up vote. At 16-ounces, it’s a smaller mug than the Everest but that’s where most of the differences end. This mug kept my tea hot and fresh for 6 hours, and is fitted with the same type of high quality stainless steel steeper basket as the Everest. Its smartly designed leak-proof lid has a comfortable, easy to drink from sip-cup style and doesn’t require removing to use—simply press down on a pop top to drink, then press it again to lock the top into spill-free mode. With its sleek metallic, glossy finish and no loop handle (for carabiner or finger hold), this model is stylistically more ‘urban’ than ‘adventure’, but also, according to highly-rated reviews for both products, a bit more vulnerable to scratches than the Everest. It’s easy to grip and carries well in a tote bag or pocket of a backpack or gym bag.

The Tea Spot Voyager Tumbler

Other Brands I Tried:

Zojirushi travel mug with tea filter shocked me and my editor when this mug didn’t win over my other contenders. Though this darling brand of the product review world took the gold in our best travel coffee mug test and kept my tea even hotter than its competitors at 6 hours, it is designed with a problematic steeping mechanism. To use this mug, you place loose tea leaves inside and add hot water. A filter fitted at the top of the mug blocks the leaves from flowing out while you drink your tea, but, as any true tea drinker knows, for however long you travel with your tea, the tea continues steeping. So, whether we’re talking a few minutes post-ideal steep time or several hours, you’ll be drinking an over-steeped brew (not tasty!). (One reviewer on Amazon noted that tea leaves can be put into the strainer basket, steeped with the mug turned upside down, and then removed. But the basket is so small that, though this works with some tea leaf types, it allows neither ample space for leaves to mingle with water while steeping, nor enough room for large loose tea leaf varieties to steep.) The top, which is made up of multiple and functionally unclear parts (a pain to both wash and keep track of), must be entirely removed to drink the tea, which makes it awkward if not impossible to safely drink from on the go. Used as a canteen-style tea-steeping vessel (to pour tea from as soon as it’s steeped) or to keep tea that’s brewed in a bag or independently from and then transferred to the mug incredibly hot for over 6 hours, this is a great product, but as an on-the-go tea mug, it doesn’t cut the mustard.

The four remaining models I tested, the Uendure Glass Infuser Travel Mug , the Lotus Glass Tea Tumbler , the Pure Zen Tea Tumbler , and the Sacred Lotus Love Sacred Glass Tea Infuser Tumbler were constructed of glass and sell in the $25 to $28 range. None of them (even with easy-to-grip insulating neoprene sleeves complete with nifty loops for carrying) had heat retention capability that came anywhere close to that of my winning contenders, and, though they were sexy looking, they were too fragile for true on-the-go usage. (A note that came with one of the models warned that the glass “may break if you drop it, knock it, or bang it with a metal spoon”.) Their open top lids made for challenging drinking on the go. So, while these might be stylish for drinking at a desk (though you’ll have to watch your keyboard if the mug gets knocked over), they’re too fragile and not practical for real on the go use.

How I Tested

I brewed loose black tea in seven leading travel tea mugs. After brewing the tea, I removed the tea basket and took the temperature of each mug’s tea using a digital thermometer . I closed the lids tightly, then measured the temperature of each tea again after 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, recording the change in temperature at each interval.

In the breaks between temperature takes, I rolled my tightly closed filled travel tea mugs on the floor; turned them upside down, and gave them all a good shaking around to test for leaks. I took a look at how many parts came with each model and how easy they were to clean. I also considered sipping mechanism design, steeper basket quality (did the basket allow ample room for proper steeping), overall durability, and style.

The Takeaway:

The company Tea Spot makes the best tea infuser travel mugs—models that brew a great cup of tea and are easy to take on the go. Buy the Everest Tumbler for slightly larger capacity and a more rugged, outdoor-adventure-ready design. Buy the Voyager for a smaller travel tea mug that's perfect for urban commuters.

Advertisement

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, how we 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 update to this guide. 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 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.

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 and have wider mouths for you to add ice cubes. Many also have straws for you to sip 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.

To determine which travel mugs to test, we look for mugs that advertise the following qualities:

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. During our tests, we use the mugs daily, evaluating them for simple enjoyability.

• 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).

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.

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.

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 keeps drinks hot long enough. 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.

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 .

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, as well as 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 promise of the battery-powered Ember Travel Mug 2 is that it allows you 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, and 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.

Further reading

This Inexpensive Water Bottle Is Meant for Cyclists, But It’s Great for Travelers, Too

by Christine Ryan

The Camelbak Podium is affordable, lightweight, and perfect for packing.

Our Favorite Mugs

by Jackie Reeve

Our Wirecutter home team is passionate about the vessels they drink them out of. Here are the mugs we can’t get enough of.

How to Clean a Travel Mug or Water Bottle

Don’t want your coffee to taste like yesterday’s brew? Give your travel mug a good deep clean—and do the same for your insulated water bottle, too!

We’ve Recommended This Travel Mug for a Decade. It’s Still Going Strong.

by James Austin

Our longtime favorite travel mug keeps drinks piping hot, and the nifty locking lid makes it virtually spill-proof.

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 12 Very Best Travel Mugs

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

In this article

• Best overall
• Best for cappuccinos
• Best for iced coffee
• Best for commuting
• Best with handle
• Best with replaceable lid
• Best customizable
• Best glass for brewing tea

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.

What we’re looking for

Most of these travel mugs come in various sizes, and obviously that’s an important feature to pay attention to when buying. 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

Steven Sadoff, founder of New York City’s Ground Support , has many travel mugs (including the MiiR and the Fellow above), but he turns to his Yeti when he wants a handle. He says he finds this feature 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

Recommended by multiple experts, MiiR also makes a sweet travel mug that mimics an actual handled mug. 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

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, it was named our best-overall bottle because so many people — including myself — sing its praises). The materials and build that keep liquid cold also keep liquid hot, as Strategist editor and avid coffee drinker Maxine Builder can attest to. She particularly likes the model with a Flex Sip lid. “It’s a lot easier to manipulate on the go and actually keeps the hot coffee in there,” she says. The other advantage of this lid is the addition of a hook, which means I can carry it with one finger while I walk my dog in the morning.” Best of all, if you already own a Hydro Flask, you can buy the new lid separately and just replace your old one. The company says it’s dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended — though both my boyfriend and I have been putting our own Hydro Flasks in the dishwasher for months now with no damage.

Best no-leak travel mug

Strategist writer Jeremy Rellosa loves his Kinto Travel Tumbler because of its double-lid system, which prevents leaks. You take both 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. It stays extra-secure, Rellosa 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: 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

Daniela Titiun, tea sommelier and author of Tea Cachai , tried many different glass tea mugs before landing on one she calls “the smartest system” for its game-changing tea-brewing mechanism. Normally, she explains, 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 get bitter. The Oneisall, however, 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 (which was gifted to me by the brand) 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 •  Maxine Builder , Strategist editor • 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 • Michael Phillips, director of content and copy at Blue Bottle • 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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Shop With Google

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

By Kristi Kellogg and Meaghan Kenny

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 featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail 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

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

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.

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.

• Coffee & Tea

I Tested 15 Travel Mugs to Find the Best Ones for Coffee and Tea

My top picks from Zojirushi, Fellow, and Kinto are hot, hot, hot.

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

Serious Eats / Irvin Lin

The Winners, at a Glance

What we learned, the criteria: what to look for in a travel mug, our favorite travel mugs, the competition.

• Why We're the Experts

Straight to the Point

Our favorite travel mug is from Zojirushi . It keeps coffee and hot beverages warm for a remarkably long time and has a locking flip lid. For coffee and tea enthusiasts, the Fellow Carter Move Mug has a thinner-edged lip that offers a better drinking experience. 

After working at a coffee shop right out of college, I stopped drinking caffeine. It was the inevitable result of having way too much of it (post-college, I did not understand moderation) and coming home with my hair, skin, and clothes smelling of it chronically. But years later, after getting married to a coffee enthusiast (some would say snob), I came back to my love of coffee.

Though I now work from home and can savor my coffee slowly out of a mug, my husband often needs to bring his second cup of coffee on the go. Coupled with the extensive camping and road-tripping we do, travel mugs of all sorts have started to accumulate in our kitchen cabinets.

This is all to say: A review of travel mugs is right up my alley. I set out to test 15 of them to see which ones retained heat and cold best, were comfortable and easy to use, didn’t leak, and offered the best drinking experience. 

The Best Overall Travel Mug

Zojirushi sm-sc48hm stainless steel vacuum insulated mug.

This travel mug is deceptively lightweight, yet still holds 16 fluid ounces of coffee or tea. It retains heat for a remarkably long time (longer than any other mug I tested). The lid not only opens up with a simple click of a button but also locks shut with a side switch, so you don’t have to worry about it accidentally opening. 

The Best Travel Mug for Coffee and Tea Enthusiasts

Fellow carter move mug.

Courtesy of Fellow

The Fellow Carter Move Mug is designed with coffee enthusiasts in mind. Its heat and cold retention was second only to the Zojirushi and the inner chamber of the mug is ceramic-lined for a neutral flavor. The thin lip of the mug made drinking coffee out of it a pleasure.

Another Good Travel Mug

Kinto day off tumbler.

The Kinto Day Off Tumber is another excellent option for coffee and tea lovers. The top has a looped handle that makes it easy to carry around and the inner lid has a built-in splash guard. It also retains heat and cold for an exceptionally long time.

Note: If a temperature-controlled travel mug is what you're interested in (where you can set and hold the temperature for a prolonged period of time), then the Ember is the one to get. We tested temperature control mugs separately .

• Heat Retention Test One (without Lid): I filled each travel mug with 212°F boiling water, then left the lid off. I inserted a ChefAlarm 's probe (our favorite probe thermometer ) and set the alarm to 140°F to see how long it took for the temperature to drop. 
• Heat Retention Test Two (with Lid): I filled each travel mug with 212°F boiling water, and then placed the lid on. I took temperature readings each hour to see how long it took for it to drop to 140°F.
• Cold Retention with Lid: I filled each travel mug with 36°F cold water, and then put the lid back on. I placed the mugs in an oven with the light on, monitoring the temperature of the oven to keep it within 80 to 85°F, to simulate a warm day. I took temperature readings each hour to see how long it took for the water to reach 60°F.
• Leak Test: I filled each travel mug with water and placed the lid back on. I vigorously shook the travel mug upside down to see how much it would leak.
• Drinking Test: I filled each mug with 12 ounces of freshly brewed coffee , carrying it around the apartment and outside on walks and drinking from it to see how the user experience was.
• Cleaning Test: After each test, I thoroughly cleaned the mugs and lids.

Screw Tops Didn’t Leak Like Pop Tops

The travel mugs I tested had two types of lids. One style screwed onto the mug’s body and the other popped on and had a rubber gasket that held the lid in place. The latter were easier to put on, as all you needed to do was push the lid onto the body. However, these mugs all leaked...some worse than others. 

Conversely, most of the screw-on lids I tested did not leak much, if at all as long as they were put on properly. The bottom line: Get a travel mug with a screw-on lid and double-check that the lid is properly aligned and seated to avoid leakage.

Drink Buttons Were Annoying

Some lids, like the Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel and Stanley Classic Trigger , require pressing a button to drink from the mug. In theory, this seems like a great idea, as it only requires one hand and could prevent leakage. However, continually pressing a button for extended periods causes hand fatigue, especially if you have mobility or strength issues. This was especially noticeable with the Stanley mug, which had a stronger spring that required more pressure and strength to press.

Lid Design and Drinking Experience

Some lids (like the Camelbak , Yeti Rambler Tumbler , and Yeti Rambler Mug ) featured thick plastic lids with drink holes set slightly back from the edge. Drinking from them felt bulky and cumbersome. Other lids, like the Simple Modern Kona Collection , had a latch right near the opening, hitting my bottom lip as I sipped. My favorite travel mugs had thinner lid edges (like the Zojirushi and Fellow ) or rounder-edged lids (like the Kinto ), which felt more natural and pleasant to drink from. Both the Fellow and the Kinto also allowed you to drink from the mug in any direction.

Heat and Cold Retention

The travel mugs that had the best heat retention also, unsurprisingly, kept liquids cold longer as well. The Zojirushi blew every other mug away on both accounts, taking over 14 hours to drop from 212°F to 140°F and nearly 20 hours for 38°F water to warm up to 60°F. The second-best mug in these tests, the Fellow , took a respectable 10 hours to drop from 212°F to 140°F and 6 hours to go from 38°F to 60°F. The Kinto mug also took 10 hours to drop down to 140°F and 13 hours to get to 60°F. With these three mugs, you could carry around your coffee or tea and it'll stay hot or cold nearly all day.

On the flip side, some of the worse performing mugs, like the Hydro Flask and Corkcicle , dropped temperature alarmingly fast, from 212°F boiling to 140°F in just three hours and 38°F to 60°F in about eight hours. Most folks drink their coffee and tea within a few hours of brewing it, but if you prefer your coffee piping hot or you have a long commute, it’s nice to have a mug that'll go the distance.

Look for a travel mug that has a double-walled, vacuum-sealed body for the best heat and cold retention. Select a travel mug that has a screw-on lid. Pop-on lids are more convenient but leaked. Pick a travel mug that has a rounded or thinner lip for the most pleasant drinking experience.

And, finally, get a travel mug that's suitable for your lifestyle. If you are constantly on the road, look for a mug that's lightweight, easily opens up with just one hand, and fits in your car's cup holder. If you're a long-distance commuter on public transit, find a mug that retains heat exceptionally well and can be safely tossed into a bag.

What we liked : The Zojirushi retained heat and cold for a remarkably long time, longer than any mug I tested. The 212°F boiling water took a little over 14 hours to cool down to 140°F, while cold 36°F water took over 20 hours to warm up to 60°F. The flip-top was easy to use, with a simple button that popped it open. There’s a secondary latch that locks the lid, too.

The mug has a thin plastic lip and the lid comes apart into two pieces, which makes it easier to clean. The inside features a nonstick coating, preventing stains. Best of all, this slim travel mug is incredibly lightweight.

What we didn’t like: The heat retention of the mug is one of its best features. But it also means freshly brewed coffee takes a while to cool down to a drinkable temperature. If you plan on drinking the coffee from the travel mug immediately, make sure to let the coffee cool before pouring it in. Otherwise, you might scald your tongue with each sip. 

Also, the opening of this travel mug is narrower than other models. This made it more challenging to clean. (You’ll want a bottle brush for the task.) 

• Material: Stainless steel with nonstick coating and BPA-free plastic
• Dimensions: 2.625 inches diameter; 8.5 inches tall
• Dishwasher-safe: No
• Stated capacity: 16 fluid ounces
• Fits in a car’s cup holder: Yes
• Weight: 7 ounces

What we liked : The Fellow Carter Move Mug is great if you prioritize the coffee or tea-drinking experience. The interior chamber of the travel mug is ceramic lined, to help prevent any metallic taste that a cheaper stainless steel model might impart to your coffee or tea. The thin metal edge of the mug feels great on your lips and allows you to drink in whatever direction you pick the mug up from.

The mug features a removable “splash guard” insert that looks a bit like a sink drain. This prevents hot liquid from splashing outwards. The double-walled, vacuum-sealed body retained heat, taking over 10 hours to drop from 212°F to 140°F and 16 hours to rise from 36°F to 60°F.

What we didn’t like: The mug's lid requires you to unscrew it and you need two hands to do so. This also means you have a lid that you need to carry (or put down) when you're drinking. That said, Fellow does sell an optional slide lid (which I did not test).

• Material: Stainless steel with ceramic interior coating
• Dimensions: 3 inches diameter; 7.25 inches tall
• Weight: 12.5 ounces

What we liked : The Kinto is a well-constructed, lightweight mug that retained heat and cold for fairly long, taking nearly 10 hours to cool 212°F boiling water down to 140°F and 13 hours for 36°F water to warm up to 60°F. The mug itself features a two-part top, one that screws onto the body and acts as a splash shield, and one that's a sealing lid with a looped handle.

The first splash shield offers a tapered lip and allows you to drink from all sides of the mug. Like the Fellow, this makes it a pleasure to drink from. The handle on top of the sealing lid is nice for carrying, too. 

What we didn’t like: Because the Kinto mug has two parts to the lid that screws onto the body, there is twice the chance of user error where you can misalign the threads and not properly screw on the lid. Like the Fellow, the Kinto lid screws on, which means it requires two hands to remove it. Unlike the Fellow, though, the lid does have a handle, so it's easier to wrap your fingers around it and hold on to it, allowing you to drink with one hand.

• Material: 18-8 Stainless steel powder coated, with polypropylene and silicone
• Dimensions: 2.75 inches diameter; 9 inches tall
• Stated capacity: 16.9 fluid ounces
• Weight: 10.5 ounces
• Contigo Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug : Contigo makes reasonably priced travel mugs and this one does a good job retaining heat and cold. But the shape of the lid and its small opening meant coffee pooled on top of the lid between sips, which caused dribbling and spilling.
• Hydro Flask All-Around Stainless Steel Tumbler with Lid : The Hydro Flask travel mug lost heat the quickest of all the mugs I tested, and the pop-on lid leaked.
• Yeti Rambler 20-Ounce Tumbler : This Yeti Rambler had a pop-on lid that leaked and didn’t retain heat or cold very well.
• MiiR Flip Traveler: This solidly constructed, lightweight mug was easy to use and retained heat and cold better than most of the mugs I tested. Unfortunately, it leaked a bit, no matter how much I tightened or screwed on the lid.
• Yeti Rambler 20-Ounce Travel Mug: Unlike the Yeti tumbler we tested, this Yeti mug had a screw-on lid that didn’t leak. It also retained heat and cold for a respectable amount of time. But the thick plastic lid made drinking out of the mug less pleasant than our winners.
• Contigo West Loop Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug : This Contigo mug did a decent job with retaining heat and cold, but having to hold down a button to drink was tedious.
• Simple Modern Travel Coffee Mug : This mug lost heat and cold relatively quickly.
• Corkcicle Commuter Cup : Unfortunately, this mug lost heat extremely quickly (in just over three hours).
• W&P Porter Insulated Tumbler : I loved the feel of this tumbler and its colorful design. But the insulated tumbler lost heat relatively quickly and leaked terribly when turned upside down.
• CamelBak Horizon Tumbler : The Camelbak tumbler did a poor job of retaining heat and cold. It also had a snap-on lid that leaked.
• Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug : The rugged and durable mug felt like what your grandfather probably drank from as he backcountry hiked his way across the Rocky Mountains. It’s built to last a lifetime (and is backed with a lifetime warranty as well). And it did a good job retaining heat and cold. But it's slightly annoying to drink from since you have to push a button to sip. And when you did, the coffee flowed out very slowly.
• Simple Modern Insulated Thermo s: This travel mug did a great job retaining heat and cold. But the small lid had a flip-top with a locking latch that protruded fairly high, bumping into my bottom lip.

How do you clean coffee or tea stains off of a stainless steel travel mug?

Sprinkle some baking soda (about one to two teaspoons) into the mug and add water to form a paste. Gently scrub with a damp cloth, soft sponge, or bottle brush. The mildly abrasive baking soda should remove the stains.

How do you maximize the heat and cold retention of a travel mug?

For hot beverages, warm up the inside of the travel mug by pouring hot water (it can from the tap) into the mug, letting it sit for a couple of minutes, and empty the mug. Then, add your coffee or hot beverage. For cold drinks, cool the inside by pouring in water and adding a few ice cubes, swirling the cubes around, then drain it and add the cold beverage.

What size travel mug is best?

For most folks, a 12- or 16-ounce travel mug is sufficient. If you're a hardcore coffee drinker or you travel a longer distance for work, a larger 20-ounce mug might be a better fit.

How do you clean a travel mug lid?

If your travel mug's lid disassembles, take it apart. Then soak the lid in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub and thoroughly rinse.

What is the best travel mug?

After testing, the Zojirushi travel mug came out on top, with a convenient flip-top and excellent insulation. But if you prioritize the coffee-drinking experience, the Fellow Carter Move Mug and Kinto Day-Off Tumbler are also excellent.

What travel mug won't leak?

All of our favorite travel mugs (from Zojirushi, Fellow, and Kinto) are leak-proof. The Zojirushi features a flip-cap that locks, while the other two have screw-on lids that prevent accidental spills.

Why We're the Experts

• Irvin Lin is a cookbook author, recipe developer, food writer, photographer, and ceramicist.
• He wrote the cookbook Marbled, Swirled, and Layered , which was picked by the New York Times as one of the best baking cookbooks of 2016.
• He runs a blog called Eat the Love , where he’s developed, photographed, and written recipes since 2010. Eat the Love was nominated twice for best food blog by the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) in 2016 and 2022.
• He has served as a judge for the 2021 IACP Cookbook Awards and served on the executive committee for the 2022 IACP Cookbook Awards. He currently serves on the 2024 Book Awards Committee for the James Beard Foundation.
• He’s tested and reviewed hundreds of kitchen items including stand mixers and indoor herb gardens .
• For this review, Irvin tested 15 travel mugs, evaluating their insulation, usability, and more to find the best ones.

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Take Your Tea on The Road: The 10 Best Travel Tea Sets (2023)

Modern travel culture has fully integrated itself with coffee culture. Airports now offer plenty of suitable cups of coffee, decent hotels have put Keurig and Nespresso machines in each room, and visiting exciting cafés and coffee shops is a standard itinerary consideration. But where is the love for tea fans? To help tea drinkers enjoy their lifestyle, find the best ways to enjoy tea while traveling with the ten best travel tea sets listed below.

Outside of Asia, where tea drinking is an integral part of daily life, tea drinkers don’t see the same availability and quality of tea options while traveling, with loose-leaf tea and quality tea bags being hard to find. Suffer no longer, with tea culture on the rise globally, there is a much wider availability of portable tea sets, travel tea mugs, and every imaginable style of glass tea tumbler to bring delicious tea from home with you. 

Tea lovers each have a unique style for tea drinking and individual preference for tea. So whether you are into black tea, green tea, hot tea, iced tea, or any of the many herbal teas, the world of tea is seemingly endless. And let’s be honest, it’s not likely the different teas at the airport restaurants or tea bag options in the hotel room will include your favorite.

The below list of tea sets offers the right travel gear for those in need of a good cup of tea in transit or at the hotel. We have sorted through the plethora of options and found the best designs, styles, and materials to provide you with high-quality hot tea while traveling. Find the ten best travel tea sets listed below to upgrade your tea experience while traveling.

For further detail on the considerations and feature options amongst the best travel tea sets, continue reading past the bottom of the list or click here .

The 10 Best Travel Tea Sets

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ZENS Travel Tea Set for Two

The perfect tea set for two, the ZENS Travel Tea Set for Two offers a borosilicate teapot and two glass cups, all double-walled, making them comfortable to the touch, avoiding burnt fingers. With a fitted zipper case, self-filtering silicone lid, and one of the most modern yet thoughtful designs in this list, the ZENS Travel Tea Set for Two is the lightest weight option with multiple cups. While the glass may be slightly less durable than the ceramic sets, its lightweight and affordable price make it an excellent choice for those who prefer to travel light.

OMyTea Handmade Porcelain Travel Tea Set

Looking to impress your travel partners while on the road? The OMyTea Handmade Porcelain Travel Tea Set is the perfect option to enjoy yourself from your hotel, out the back of your car, or in a sleeper train compartment on the other side of the world. With four small porcelain teacups, a small teapot with a built-in filter, a bamboo tea tray, and a cotton tea towel, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing moment. In addition, the tea set comes with a foam-lined zipper case for safe travel; all you need is hot water.

Teabloom All-Purpose Beverage Tumbler with Tea Infuser

Simple and effective. The Teabloom All-Purpose Beverage Tumbler with Tea Infuser features a stainless steel tea flask with a brushed metal finish that is available in multiple colors. With a 16oz capacity, the Teabloom tumbler comes with both a straining lid and infuser, making it useful for steeped loose leaf tea, fruit infusions, and cold brew coffee. With a simple, understated design and a durable metal build, the Teabloom tumbler is an easy and affordable option to drink tea on the go.

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ZENS Travel Tea Set for One

One of the more unique designs available, the ZENS Travel Tea Set for One is made for travel and works well in a carry-on bag. Put your loose leaf tea in one of the two compartments and screw it onto the filter. When ready for tea, fill the cup with hot water and let it steep. Invert the tea set when you are prepared to drink, and press the button to have the hot tea filter into the cup.

Made of Tritan, the world’s safest BPA-free plastic that was made popular with Nalgene water bottles years ago, the main drawback of the ZENS Travel Tea Set for One is also one of its best qualities. Low-profile in size, the Tea Set for One can only carry up to 200ml or 6.75oz of water at a time, requiring refills from time to time.

LeafLife Premium Bamboo Thermos with Tea Infuser & Strainer

Nearly identical in design to the Teabloom tumbler listed earlier, the LeafLife Premium Bamboo Thermos with Tea Infuser & Strainer offers a more natural feel, with a bamboo finish on the outside along with a stainless steel interior. There are three sizes to choose from —12oz, 17oz, and 22oz — each offering the same range of uses, such as tea, fruit infusions, and cold brew coffee. With vacuum flask insulation, the tumbler is designed to keep drinks warm for 12 hours and cold drinks cool for up to 24 hours.

TOLOG Purple Clay Travel Tea Set

Made out of Chinese purple clay, used for hundreds of years in traditional tea sets, the TOLOG Purple Clay Travel Tea Set includes four small teacups, a ceramic tea caddy, and a dragon-spouted teapot with a built-in filter. With a more traditional design than the modern options in travel sets, this set is made in a timeless style that is less likely to wear over time due to the usage of purple clay. All set parts can fit into the included bag for safe travel.

Dltsli Mini Ceramic Travel Tea Set

Compact and well-designed, the Dltsli Mini Ceramic Travel Tea Set is made of porcelain and features two small cups, a teapot with a lid, and a filter that is also made of porcelain. The modern Chinese-inspired design is stylish and practical; with the cups and filter stored into the teapot, it can all be stored into a small padded zipper case, taking up minimal space in your bag while traveling.

Wenshuo Ceramic Travel Tea Set

Just add water. The Wenshuo Ceramic Travel Tea Set features a practical and beautiful design and everything you need for a traditional Chinese tea ceremony. The dark ceramic set includes two small teacups, a larger cup, a teapot with a wooden handle, and a tea caddy for traveling with loose leaf tea. Stored in a double-layered zipper pouch with this ceramic travel tea set, all you need is a kettle of hot water.

Pure Zen Tea Tumbler with Infuser

One of the more intriguing designs on this list, the Pure Zen Tea Tumbler with Infuser features a double-walled borosilicate glass tube with screw-on caps at either end and a stainless steel infuser that fits with one of the caps. This design allows for steep tea and remove, for long steeps, or to have multiple steeps without removing and readding the tea. In addition, the insulated double-wall provides for easy handling, making for the perfect travel tea infuser for use in day-to-day lives and through travel.

Ceoon 13oz Double Wall Glass Water Bottle

Another unique design for a travel tea infusing bottle, the Ceoon 13oz Double Wall Glass Water Bottle includes a drip-through tea infusion method. The bottle allows you to place the tea in a glass compartment and screw it on at one end, then fill the bottle section with hot water, screw it on, and invert. Once the tea has steeped, flip the bottle back over, unscrew the filter and tea compartment, and enjoy. Made of lightweight borosilicate glass and BPA-free, the Ceoon offers a thoughtful tea set design in an easy to carry bottle

Features To Consider

Tea sets for one or multiple cups.

Depending on the way you travel, you may or may not be considering options that can serve more than one person at the same time. For personal consumption, it’s not hard to find a great tea infuser travel mug that can offer both a bottle to steep tea and a single cup, which will become a must-pack item in your travel bag. However, if you are looking for an option to serve a small group or share tea with your travel partner, convenient travel tea sets include small tea cups to enjoy tea as a group while traveling.

Integrated Tea Bottle Infusers

The most common option amongst the best travel tea sets and best tea infuser mugs, the integrated tea bottle infusers come in different styles and designs but ultimately offer a similar tea experience. These bottles include a bottle and internal tea strainer with small holes that provide a great way to steep your favorite loose leaf tea inside an insulated water-bottle-sized infuser.  

To choose the best travel tea infuser or best travel tea set for yourself, you should first consider what materials work best for you. Unfortunately, there is no consensus best material, as different options have different benefits. One of the most popular options is borosilicate glass, a lightweight glass often used in double-wall designs, which is a relatively less-fragile glass built for long usable life and easy cleaning.

Those looking for lightweight and less-fragile options can opt for a stainless steel tumbler, which can last a long time and is less likely to break than glass, though it can be hot to touch and is not transparent, not allowing you to see inside as your steep tea. Other lightweight options include plastic, though the different materials are your best bet if you are looking for the best travel tea infuser. If you prefer a plastic alternative, make sure it is made of BPA Free plastic. 

Beyond the glass, stainless steel or plastic, ceramic, and bamboo-lined stainless steel options are also included. While a ceramic portable tea set will typically offer the most beautiful design, it will undoubtedly come with additional weight compared to the other options. However, if you are willing to set aside some dedicated bag weight for a beautiful ceramic tea set, you will be sipping your cups of tea in style.  

The bamboo-lined stainless steel offers a nice natural look and insulation from the heat for your hand, though it serves more of a decorative purpose overall.

When considering the best tea strainer or tea steepers, the best options are to find a tea set with a stainless steel strainer or at least stainless steel infuser baskets. These are by far the best options as they will be resistant to rust, allowing you to enjoy loose-leaf tea for years to come.

There are many thoughtful designs available depending on your tea drinking preferences. For example, some offer the ability to steep loose tea leaves inside a tea infuser bottle, with a separate small cup that can be screwed off to be used to drink out of. In comparison, others are effectively water-bottle-style tea mugs with internal tea steepers, where you can sip out of the bottle directly.  

Some bottles and cups offer a double wall design, which is advantageous when traveling. It can provide a layer of insulation to keep your tea hot and allow you to handle the cup or bottle comfortably.

The tea sets usually include a small ceramic or clear glass teapot to steep loose leaves of tea in and strain into two to four small cups. These can then be packed away into compact protective cases for easy traveling.

Size and Packing Space

A key consideration for those looking for the best travel tea set or right tea infuser is the size and packing space that it will take up. If you are looking for the best way to drink tea while traveling but are unwilling to sacrifice space, a tea infuser bottle will be your best option, with different sizes available depending on how much tea you want to carry. 

Conversely, if you are looking for a tea set for more than one or the perfect gift for a couple, the different tea sets with small cups are still relatively compact and won’t take up much room across bags for two travelers.

Carrying Case or Protector

Importantly, if you opt for more breakable materials like glass or ceramic options, many of the options on this list come with a carrying case or soft sleeve to protect the infuser bottle or tea set. This consideration is essential for a long life with the bottle and those who prefer the beautiful design choices.

Bottom Line

There is no perfect tea infuser bottle or tea set for everyone. Each design and material option has its own pros and cons, though, among the above list of best travel tea sets on the market, you can find the best choice for yourself or the perfect give for a tea lover.

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The Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug (And Why Real Tea Lovers Need One) - Epicurious

by Mindy Fox for   Epicurious  

Photo by: Joseph De Leo

I can hear my better half, Steve, now: “Do you really need a dedicated travel tea mug? Can’t you brew a cup of tea and then use any ol’ travel mug to take it on the go?”

Yeah, babe, you could. (And he probably knows what’s coming next.) But I like to have the right tool for the job, and there is good reason to be particular when it comes to a travel tea mug.

Sure, I could place loose tea leaves in a single-use paper steeper or basket steeper and use my   favorite travel coffee mug for the job, but travel tea mugs are made with built-in tea steepers (ones that allow you to tightly close the lid while your tea steeps), which means no waste and a hotter finished brew. Plus, coffee mugs tend to take on coffee flavor over time. A dedicated travel tea mug helps keeps a   serious tea drinker’s tea   tasting pure and clean.

In my quest for the best travel mug to take my cuppa on the road, I sought out a leak-proof model that ranked high in the   heat retention department. I also wanted a mug that was easy to grip and to drink from. And because it’s nice to have stylish gear, one that looked good, too. Here are my winning picks and how I tested: 

The Very Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug: The Tea Spot Everest Tea Tumbler

The Everest’s double-walled, vacuum-sealed stainless steel insulation kept 22 ounces of tea hot and fresh tasting, and its screw down BPA-free top was terrifically leak-proof. I fell hard for its rugged adventure-meets-urban-chic look, and had a hard time deciding which of its four stylish colors I liked best.

The Everest also won my vote for smart design and functionality with an innovative screw-top and sipping mechanism that stay connected to the mug while you drink (which means when you remove the part of the lid that allows you to drink your tea, it won’t go tumbling down a cliff, through a subway grate, or down between that impossibly narrow space between the seat of your car and your cup-holding console).

The stainless steel steeper basket on this model provided ample room for water and tea leaves to mingle as my tea steeped, and its small holes kept fine leaves from passing into my tea, making a clean and full-tasting brew. The easy to grip exterior is much like that of the popular   Hydro Flask   water bottle so, if you’re a   Hydro Flask fan, you’ll likely love The Tea Spot Everest, too.

The Everest fit well in a tote bag and was also comfortable to carry on the outside of a backpack, using a   carabiner clip. And, like all of the travel tea mugs I tested, it can be used for iced tea as well as plain or infused fruit (aka spa) water. 

The Next Best (aka Runner Up) Travel Tea Infuser Mug: The Tea Spot Voyager Tea Tumbler

The Voyager, also by The Tea Spot, won my runner-up vote. At 16-ounces, it’s a smaller mug than the Everest but that’s where most of the differences end. This mug kept my tea hot and fresh for 6 hours, and is fitted with the same type of high quality stainless steel steeper basket as the Everest. Its smartly designed leak-proof lid has a comfortable, easy to drink from sip-cup style and doesn’t require removing to use—simply press down on a pop top to drink, then press it again to lock the top into spill-free mode. With its sleek metallic, glossy finish and no loop handle (for carabiner or finger hold), this model is stylistically more ‘urban’ than ‘adventure’, but also, according to highly-rated reviews for both products, a bit more vulnerable to scratches than the Everest. It’s easy to grip and carries well in a tote bag or pocket of a backpack or gym bag. 

How I Tested

I brewed loose black tea in seven leading travel tea mugs. After brewing the tea, I removed the tea basket and took the temperature of each mug’s tea using a   digital thermometer. I closed the lids tightly, then measured the temperature of each tea again after 1 hour, 4 hours, and 6 hours, recording the change in temperature at each interval.

In the breaks between temperature takes, I rolled my tightly closed filled travel tea mugs on the floor; turned them upside down, and gave them all a good shaking around to test for leaks. I took a look at how many parts came with each model and how easy they were to clean. I also considered sipping mechanism design, steeper basket quality (did the basket allow ample room for proper steeping), overall durability, and style.

The Takeaway:

The company Tea Spot makes the best tea infuser travel mugs—models that brew a great cup of tea and are easy to take on the go. Buy the  Everest Tumbler  for slightly larger capacity and a more rugged, outdoor-adventure-ready design. Buy the Voyager for a smaller travel tea mug that's perfect for urban commuters.

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I need Best Tea Infuser Travel Mug and this article seems to be very informative. And this article also helped me in decorating my shelf ware and even anyone can give some artistic look or taste. Thank you for sharing this article.

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Best Insulated Travel Mugs

Top cups that keep coffee hot, won’t leak or spill, and are easy to clean

An insulated travel mug lets you take your favorite drink, hot or cold, anywhere you go. And a good one feels like it was designed with your routine, and even you, in mind. It slips effortlessly into a cup holder and opens easily so that you can sip safely while keeping your eyes on the road. You arrive with a drink that’s still hot and appealing.

Unless you don’t. An insulated travel mug can also feel like a piece of over-engineered junk that leaks tepid coffee onto your lap and clutters your cupboards, collecting dust.

“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 travel mugs. “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. And 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 one that fits in the slimmest of cup holders. Know that every mug here keeps drinks hot for at least a few hours; we sincerely hope that’s plenty long enough for your commute.

Read on for ratings and reviews of the 10 mugs we tested from Bubba, Contigo, Ello, Starbucks, S’well, Takeya, Thermos, Yeti, and Zojirushi. They’re listed below in order of their temperature retention score—how long they keep liquids hot.

You’ll also find details on how CR tests insulated travel mugs .

CR’s take: This slim mug is in a league of its own in terms of pure performance. It keeps drinks hot for an astonishing 13½ hours—6 hours longer than the closest competitor, earning a top rating of Excellent for temperature retention. The screw-on cap is easy to clean, with two removable gaskets. Our testers found the mug easy to open with one hand: Simply press a button on the side and the lid pops up so that you can drink out of the plastic spout. You can also lock the lid, a nice feature if you have young kids who are the type to tinker with a mug filled with scalding hot coffee. The slender design of the mug means it fits in cup holders in a variety of cars.

Specs: 16-ounce capacity, leakproof, cup holder-friendly, plastic interior, smooth lip, replaceable lid and gaskets, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Amazon , Target , Zojirushi

Specs: 16-ounce capacity, leakproof, cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior, replaceable lid and gaskets, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Amazon , Bed Bath & Beyond , Home Depot , Kohl’s , Thermos , Walmart

Specs: 17-ounce capacity, leakproof, cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior, smooth lip on cup, replaceable lid and gaskets, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Amazon , Bed Bath & Beyond , Best Buy , Takeya USA , Target

Specs: 16-ounce capacity, leakproof, not cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior, replaceable lid, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Amazon , Bed Bath & Beyond , Swell.com

Specs: 20-ounce capacity, leakproof, cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Amazon

Specs: 16-ounce capacity, leakproof, cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior, smooth lip on cup, one-handed opening.

Specs: 20-ounce capacity, leakproof, cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior.

Buy at: Amazon , Bed Bath & Beyond , Best Buy , Target , Walmart

Specs: 16-ounce capacity, leakproof, requires large cup holder, stainless steel interior, smooth lip on cup, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Ello , Macy’s , Walmart

Specs: 20-ounce capacity, cup holder-friendly, stainless steel interior, smooth lip on cup, replaceable lid and gaskets, one-handed opening.

Buy at: Ace Hardware , Amazon , Dick’s Sporting Goods , Lowe’s , Yeti

Specs: 52-ounce capacity, plastic interior.

Buy at: Amazon , Bed Bath & Beyond , Sears , Walmart

How CR Tests Insulated Travel Mugs

We test how well insulated travel mugs keep drinks hot or cold, whether they resist spilling and leaking, and how easy they are to clean. We also grade mugs on convenience, including whether they fit in cup holders in a variety of cars and whether you can open the sipping mechanism with just one hand, which is crucial when you’re driving.

For the temperature retention test, we filled each mug with boiling water (212° F) and immediately screwed or pressed each lid back on. Then our testers opened each mug 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 mug to see whether it could keep cold drinks cold as well as hot drinks hot. “We found that mugs that were well-insulated did a great job with keeping liquids either hot or cold,” Deitrick says.

For our leakproof test, we filled each with water and shook each mug from multiple angles, noting whether any liquid escaped.

To rate how easy mugs are to clean, we filled each mug with a mixture of hot coffee and creamer, and sloshed the contents to saturate the inside of the lid. We drained and opened the mugs, and then let them dry overnight. Then we cleaned each one as directed, 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. All except the Yeti Rambler and Bubba Classic required using a bottle brush.

Each mug 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 mug. After all, our aim is to help you find a product that lasts, and that keeps you happy.

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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• What to Buy
• Coffee & Tea

The 10 Best Tea Infusers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Just the right tools to make perfect cups

The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose

Every cup of tea starts with a simple decision between tea bags and loose leaf . Many people instinctively choose tea bags because they are quick, convenient, and easy to find in the grocery store, but the right tea infuser makes preparing a cup of loose leaf just as easy as bagged tea—and even more delicious. Infusers are typically made of mesh stainless steel, but there are many unique options, including ones on this list, that can add a personal touch to each and every sip.

How We Tested

Other options we tested.

• What to Look for

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Best overall, finum stainless steel mesh brewing basket.

• Durability 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 5 /5
• Overall Value 5 /5

Extra-fine mesh keeps leaves in

Reasonably priced

Strong flavor

Large capacity

Plastic could be thicker

Tea leaves love space to roam around; the more room, the better the flavor. That's why basket-shaped infusers are so popular and effective, perhaps none more so than the Finum Brewing Basket. It's large enough for tea leaves to diffuse flavor into every nook and cranny of your mug, and the micro-fine mesh traps in the smallest tea particles. The mesh is even fine enough to brew coffee.

After testing it ourselves, the infuser surpassed all expectations. It was one of the easiest to use and the best at retaining tea leaves. All we had to do was scoop tea into the basket, place the basket into a mug, pour hot water, and wait. The Brewing Basket is also dishwasher safe for simple post-tea cleaning. The item is available in multiple sizes and colors, and the lid functions as a drip tray for added convenience. While it leans toward the more expensive end for an infuser, we think it's reasonably priced and an excellent value for money considering the quality.

Material: Plastic and stainless steel mesh | Dimensions: 2.05 x 2.4 x 2.95 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Budget

Norpro 2-inch mesh tea infuser ball.

Good leaf retention for tea ball

Value for money

Chain stays cool to touch

Design not for everyone

Only one infuser

This tea ball has a dreamy nighttime-themed teapot charmed attached to it, making it a great way to wind down, perhaps with a cup of caffeine-free herbal tea . The charm has a functional purpose too, as it lets users remove the tea ball easily and without burning their fingers.

The Norpro Tea Ball Infuser is affordably priced, so it's a low-stress investment to your tea setup. It's worth noting that you can find packs of tea balls at around the same price or even cheaper than this one tea ball. However, this one has the quality that makes it worth buying over tea ball packs. It fared well in our tests, retaining all large leaves and limiting the sediment that appeared in our cups of tea. That's pretty rare for a budget-priced tea ball, as they tend to be less reliable than infuser baskets. The item is also dishwasher safe and rinses easily once your tea is finished.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: Tea ball is 2 inches in diameter | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Tea Forte Kati Steeping Cup And Infuser

• Durability 4 /5

Beautiful design

Quality materials

Fits in most cupholders

Microwavable

Gets hot to touch

Ceramic is breakable

If you’re in the market for a new favorite teacup that includes an infuser, consider the Tea Forte Kati Steeping Cup. It's a favorite among tea lovers thanks to its beautiful design, quality construction, and great results. Many happy customers say they either received or gave the item as a gift, so keep that in mind for the next holiday or special occasion. After seeing how pretty the item is firsthand, we agree.

The thick, double-walled ceramic keeps tea hot longer than many standard mugs will. Just be careful when grabbing it immediately after steeping; the mug was too hot to touch for a couple of minutes after we steeped rooibos tea in 212-degree water. When steeping sencha green tea around 170 degrees, however, the exterior stayed cool. The 12-ounce mug and matching lid are dishwasher- and microwave-safe, so it's easy to clean and reheat if needed. You can choose from a dozen designs, including the cherry blossom model we tested, to fit your aesthetic or that of a gift recipient.

Capacity: 12 ounces | Material: Ceramic mug and stainless steel infuser | Dimensions: 3.5 x 5.75 inches | Dishwasher safe: Yes (mug and lid only)

Best Teapot

Adagio teas iced ingenuitea.

• Design 4 /5

Easy to use

Multiple sizes available

Makes hot or iced tea

Handle stays cool to the touch

Lid doesn't close automatically

Tea stains plastic

May leak after dispensing

Most tea infusers are designed to make one serving at a time, but is one cup ever really enough? Avid tea drinkers are better off with a product like the Adagio Teas ingenuiTEA Teapot. Available in 16 or 28 ounces, it has the same capacity as many traditional teapots, but it's easier and faster to use.

We tried out the 16-ounce model and were impressed by the seamless bottom-dispensing valve. To use, place the ingenuiTEA on your mug after steeping, gently press it down, and tea will smoothly and automatically begin pouring. The mesh stainless stainless at the bottom keeps any leaves whatsoever from ending up in the cup. Once finished, the item is dishwasher safe. We found that it's easy to clean by hand, too, for those who don't have a dishwasher or just want to move onto the next round of tea right away.

Capacity: 16 or 28 ounces | Material: Plastic | Dimensions: 3.5 x 6 inches (16-ounce model) | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Basket

Vahdam classic tea infuser.

• Design 3 /5
• Overall Value 4 /5

Plenty of space for tea leaves

Thumb grips stay cool

Lid may not properly close

Doesn't fit lids wider than 4 inches

With its extensive collection of teas and teaware, Vahdam is a go-to brand for many tea drinkers. One affordable accessory from the company we recommend is its Classic Tea Infuser. The basket-style infuser is large enough for a single serving of tea or a full teapot's worth, and we confirmed that it's dependable for keeping leaves out of your drink.

Despite the item's durability and quality stainless steel, it has a design flaw that we encountered during the testing process and saw multiple online reviewers mention: the lid, which also functions as a drip tray, doesn't perfectly fit onto the basket. This has no effect on the steeping process—the infuser still brews delicious tea, especially when you follow steps to enhance your tea tasting experience —but it's a curious and frustrating shortcoming. Aside from that, we gave the item a sparkling review. It's easy to use, the two little wings on either side of the basket stay cool to touch, and it's dishwasher safe, so cleaning is simple too.

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 3 x 3.9 inches| Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Splurge

Forlife brew-in-mug extra-fine tea infuser with lid.

Forlife Design

Great leaf retention

Available in multiple colors

Dishwasher safe

Not major difference from cheaper baskets

The Forlife Brew-In-Mug Infuser hits all the key marks. The stainless steel basket is safe to throw in the dishwasher, and it's also easy to wash by hand for those who prefer. A few leaves got caught between the basket and the lid after steeping but rinsed away without issue. The lid, which also acts as a drip tray, has a reliable silicone seal that keeps condensation from getting on the handle. And, most importantly, the infuser retains leaves well while simultaneously allowing flavor to spready fully and evenly throughout the cup.

One factor to consider before buying, however, is that this infuser doesn't offer a major upgrade over other basket infusers despite being more expensive. There is an upgrade to be sure—we gave it one of the best reviews of any infuser we tested—but it won't necessarily provide a life-altering boost to your tea.

Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Dimensions: 3.25 x 4.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Travel Mug

Firebelly tea stop-infusion travel mug.

Firebelly Tea

Lets tea leaves steep openly

Solid, durable materials

Sleek aesthetic and multiple colorways

Must remove lid before drinking

What makes Firebelly Tea's Stop-Infusion Travel Mug so unique is that it allows users to brew delicious tea without an infuser. Instead, tea leaves steep openly inside the mug, which is much better for diffusion, and a tea press is inserted to stop the infusion process. It works more like a French press than a traditional infuser bottle, and the difference shines through in the flavor, whether you're making hot tea or iced.

We received the Stop-Infusion Travel Mug from the brand for testing purposes and found that each of the teas we brewed with it was strong and evenly diffused. The steel-and-plastic tea press, or plunger, is also extremely effective at tamping down loose tea leaves and ensuring sediment doesn't end up in any sips. The top of the tea press has a 360-degree vent that lets you drink from any side; it's a unique design that might take a moment to get used to, but sipping is smooth and drip-free. The lid needs to be removed before drinking, though, so you'll need two free hands to open it.

Another standout detail is the quality of the materials. We found the stainless steel to be hefty and durable, making the mug a trustworthy travel companion. The lid is leakproof too, so you can toss it in a bag when on the go. There are six color options, ranging from neutral tones to more vibrant options. Note that hand-washing is recommended; the tea press is easy to rinse by hand, but the mug itself requires a bottle brush to reach all nooks and crannies.

Material: Stainless steel and Tritan | Dimensions: 3 x 8.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: No

Best With Handle

Oxo brew twisting tea ball infuser.

Unique opening mechanism

Slim and stylish

Easy to clean

Medium capacity

May need to stir for best diffusion

No drip tray

Infusers with handles offer a couple advantages over conventional tea balls: they are easier to control when steeping and less likely to make a mess. The Oxo Brew Twisting Tea Ball Infuser is our top pick in the category because it takes these advantages and adds a few unique touches of its own. Most notable is the twisting handle that opens and closes the infuser ball. It's a smooth and simple mechanism that sets the item apart from other handled infusers. Very small traces of tea leaves, more like fannings and tea dust, escaped from the basket during the testing process, but that's quite normal. Overall, the infuser did an excellent job retaining tea leaves. We also appreciated the item's sleek and elegant design, accented by the black handle.

Many tea infusers can be purchased at a cheaper price, but the Oxo model is affordable nonetheless. Plus, it's made from sturdy stainless steel and non-slip plastic. Oxo backs all of its products with a lifetime guarantee.

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 7 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best With Drip Stand

Adhoc tea drop tea infuser.

No mess and easy to clean

Drip stand makes it presentable on countertop

Very small particles may get into tea

Not the best value

If you're looking for an infuser that avoids drips, spills, and messes, the AdHoc Tea Drop Tea Infuser is the place to start. After steeping, you can place the wand-style infuser into a plastic drip stand that collects any residual tea droplets. Both parts are dishwasher safe, and we found them easy to rinse and wash by hand for those who prefer that method. The drip stand is functional and stylish enough that you can leave the infuser on your countertop for quick access.

As far as its performance, the Tea Drop does not have the absolute finest infuser basket. Some small particles ended up in the mug after we tested multiple tea varieties but not to the extent that it marred the flavor or drinking experience. We were impressed by how large the infuser basket is, which is a benefit because it gives tea leaves space to evenly diffuse throughout the mug or teapot.

Make sure you don't fill your mug to the brim, though, as the infuser will cause the water level to rise when you dunk it in for steeping. In fact, the best way to brew is by placing the infuser in an empty mug and pouring hot water directly over it . The long, flexible handle then lets you stir the infuser until the tea reaches your desired strength.

Material: Stainless steel and plastic | Dimensions: 8.46 x 2.2 inches without stand; 8.89 x 2.75 with stand | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Best Ease of Cleaning

Oxo brew tea infuser basket.

Lid doubles as drip tray

Stays cool to touch

Leaves can rise to top of infuser

This basket infuser from Oxo is dishwasher safe, but you may never even need to toss it in the dishwasher because it's quick and easy to clean by hand too. A solid rinse removed the leftover leaves from all three types of tea we steeped with it.

The item can also be counted on to make tasty tea without a mess. It passed our tests by keeping tea leaves out of the cup; only trace amounts of dust slipped through, which is normal for most infusers. Once the tea is done steeping and you remove the infuser, its lid functions as a drip tray, so you can place the infuser on it and avoid liquid spilling onto your countertop . The two handles have what Oxo calls "stay-cool touchpoints," and this was largely true in our experience. The handles got a little warm but remained safe to touch.

Perhaps our only criticism is one that affects most basket infusers: depending on the type of tea and amount of water you use, the tea leaves can float toward the top of the infuser and may not fully submerge. This is one difference between a basket infuser and tea ball infuser; although, the former has the benefit of providing more space for tea leaves diffuse throughout the cup.

Material: Stainless steel and silicone | Dimensions: 3.25 x 5.5 inches | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

With its affordable price and unbeatable performance, the Finum Brewing Basket is the first place to look for a quality tea infuser, as basket-shaped infusers are widely preferred by tea experts and this is one of the best out there. We also love the convenient and adorable House Again Extra Fine Mesh Tea Infusers , especially if you're looking for a set instead of a single infuser.

We started by researching the top tea infusers based on customer reviews, third-party articles, and insight from our testing team. From there, we purchased and tested a total of 10 tea infusers. Seven of those infusers were deemed good enough to recommend based on their performance and value for money. We later received another tea infuser for testing purposes and felt it was worthy of a recommendation, too. That's how we put together the list of tea infusers above.

We Observed

• If any tea leaves slipped through the infuser: One of the most important parts of our testing process was seeing how well each infuser contained tea leaves. Infusers that allowed an excess of leaves or particles to fall through were not recommended in this article. Many other infusers that we tested successfully kept in leaves, leading to tasty, grit-free cups of tea. We used at least two types of tea—one with smaller leaves and one with larger leaves—in our testing trials.
• If the infuser became hot to touch: Tea leaves need to steep in hot water, of course, but that can become a problem if your infuser gets unbearably hot to touch. We made sure that wouldn't be an issue for any of the infusers we recommended. Each infuser was placed in 212-degree water for several minutes and then removed from the mug by hand (or immediately let go of) to see if it was safe to handle.
• How well the tea leaves diffused: Tea infuser size is correlated with flavor, as larger infusers tend to allow tea leaves to diffuse more thoroughly. As a result, we measured every tea infuser that we tested. We also used the same types of tea when testing the diffusers so that we could fairly gauge differences in flavor.
• Design: We rated the overall design of these tea infusers on a one to five scale, with five being the best. Some aspects we considered were: the size of the infuser; how easily it opened and closed; how easily it could be placed in and taken out of a mug; the fineness of the mesh; and its aesthetic. Ease of use and reliability were prioritized over the way the infuser looked, but all of these details affected its design score.
• Durability: We tested every infuser for at least 21 days, which allowed us to see how they held up over multiple uses. Before rating durability, we assessed the strength of all parts and materials, including any mesh, handles, clasps, or chains. We also tested four mugs with built-in infusers and graded them on how portable they were.
• Value: Infusers are generally a low-cost tea accessory, but they still come in a range of prices. After using each one, we compared its performance to the retail price and rated its value for money. This section also helped us clarify whether we would purchase the infuser ourselves or recommend it to a friend.

About Our Testers

• Our Lab team has spent collective decades working in professional kitchens, developing recipes, and testing kitchen gear.
• Derek Rose has been the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats since 2019. He tested all of the tea infusers on this list in his home over three weeks. This allowed him to compare each infuser's performance side by side, as well as get a better sense of what it would be like to use each one as an everyday tea accessory.

According to Shunan Teng , the founder and CEO of Tea Drunk, one tip for making better tea at home is to use hotter water for high-quality tea and lower-temperature water for subpar tea. "Hotter temperatures bring out the flavors in better tea," she says, "and lower temperatures dilute the flaws in lower-quality tea. With bad tea, the bitterness and astringency would come out with higher temperatures."

Fu Store Stainless Steel Tea Balls : A former version of this roundup named these infusers as the best budget pick. While they may be suitable for tea with large leaves, they couldn't contain either type of tea that we tested them with. Most of the leaves ended up in our mug before steeping was finished. On top of that, the stainless steel clasp was difficult to close; it felt strained, almost rusty right out of the box. A final criticism is that the stainless steel chain fell into the mug almost immediately upon our first use, and it was difficult to take the infuser out given the temperature of the tea. Overall, these only seem worthwhile if you know the tea you'll be drinking has large enough leaves to stay inside.

Genuine Fred Manatea Tea Infuser : The Genuine Fred Manatea Infuser fell just short of being included on our list, mainly because its performance was inconsistent depending on the type of tea used. A green tea that we brewed had a lot of leaves slip through the filter and into the mug. The tea was drinkable and overall enjoyable, but the last few sips had too much sediment for our liking. Another minor shortcoming of the Manatea infuser is that its two silicone pieces are somewhat inconvenient to attach. While we can't fully recommend this infuser, some customers may enjoy its novelty aspect and could consider it as a gift idea. It just can't be counted on with every type of loose leaf tea.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug with Tea Leaf Filter : This Zojirushi mug with a built-in infuser was previously included on our list as the best travel option. After testing it, however, we found it harder to use and clean than expected. For instance, the lid needs to be completely removed to take a sip, which makes the mug inconvenient while driving or walking. And the lid opening is too small to fit a hand inside of, so a bottle brush is needed to properly clean the mug, as it isn't dishwasher safe. We felt it was easier to brew tea separately and pour it into a different travel mug than use the Zojirushi mug for a morning commute.

"Mistakes with brewing tea usually involve time, temperature, or water-to-tea ratio. This means brewing for too long or too short, using an incorrect temperature, or using too much or too little tea. Being mindful of all three factors will help people develop their tea-brewing techniques."  — Shunan Teng , Founder and CEO of Tea Drunk

What to Look for When Buying a Tea Infuser

The more space that tea leaves have to roam around inside the cup or pot while steeping, the better. This means large infusers are superior to small ones, as they disperse the flavors more evenly throughout the water. If possible, look for an infuser with a basket shape that fills up your entire mug. Does this mean tea balls are too small be effective? Nope! Even small tea balls produce a better result than most tea bags , since bagged tea is all too often filled with low-quality dust, fannings, and broken leaves. Those looking for a teapot with a built-in infuser can follow the same rule of thumb: a larger infuser likely means more flavor. Of course, the best way to brew tea would be for the leaves to swirl around freely and then be strained after steeping, but that is a messier and more time-consuming process than using an infuser.

When searching for tea infusers you will quickly see that they come in a number of different styles. Each one has its own pros and cons. This topic is covered in greater detail below, but here is a quick breakdown. Tea balls are the most common style. They are usually crafted from mesh stainless steel and attached to either a chain or handle for easier usage. Another popular style is the filter basket, a larger option that can be made for either a single cup or a full teapot. Other styles include: tea sticks, portable infusers, novelty infusers, and more.

Ease of Use

One reason tea drinkers may hesitate to switch to infusers is that tea bags are so convenient. No one wants to spend extra time brewing and cleaning up afterward, especially if they drink several cups a day. However, there are actually many tea infusers that are extremely easy to use and dishwasher safe. To get a sense of an item’s ease of use, see how it opens, closes, and seals shut. As a quick tip, infusers with silicone parts are often more rigorous to put together than simple tea balls and filter baskets.

Leaf Retenion

Along with the actual size of a tea infuser, it’s also worth paying attention to the size of an infuser’s holes. Some loose leaf teas are fine enough to slip through larger holes, clogging up each sip and rendering the infuser entirely useless. For those who prefer a specific kind of tea, think about whether the pieces are on the larger side or finer side and it will be easier to select the right infuser for you. Oolong, black, and green teas tend to contain larger leaves, while red and herbal teas often have smaller bits. As far as infusers go, tea balls generally have smaller mesh holes, while infuser eggs and silicone infusers have larger ones.

Types of Tea Infusers

Tea balls are the most common type of infuser, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they brew the most flavorful tea. Many are very small and may not diffuse as thoroughly as a basket infuser, for instance, so keep that in mind when searching. Tea balls are usually made from mesh stainless steel and open in half via a clasp. They are often attached to chains or handles (the latter are sometimes called “tea pincers”) to make them easier to use. Infuser eggs, an ovular and slightly larger alternative, can also be sorted into this category.

Infuser Basket

Whether they are meant for a single cup or a full teapot, infuser baskets are a simple and efficient brewing method. Look for ones that take up as much space as possible, as this will allow the tea to diffuse evenly throughout the water. Most have handles or arms that help them rest on top of your mug, while others fully submerge into the water. Another small difference to pay attention to is if it has a lid that also functions as a drip tray, as this is an especially handy feature. Expect infuser baskets to be more expensive than tea balls but still extremely affordable.

Portable Infuser

Many travel mugs today come with infusers for delicious tea on the go. The infusers themselves are typically basket style, but they are specially designed for the mug’s dimensions. The brewing process, which can be done for both hot and iced tea, is no different than standard models: simply fill the infuser, pour the water, and steep for the tea’s ideal length of time.

Compact and elegant, tea sticks are an excellent option for those interested in a sleeker aesthetic. They are not always the easiest to fill, since they are so slim, but are just as affordable as other types of infusers. The slim design can also make them less powerful than large infusers, so be sure to stir the stick around in your mug for a more thorough diffusion.

Brands/Manufacturers

Fred is a Rhode Island-based brand that manufactures everything from games to gadgets, all with a quirky spin. The company is perhaps best known for its array of themed silicone tea infusers. The largely animal-focused items are a fun way to add personality to your cup. You can find the infusers at an affordable price and shaped like sloths, koalas, whales, and more.

Home to a wide variety of kitchen gadgets, Oxo makes a couple tea infusers worth checking out. One is a nifty tea ball that can be opened and closed via a twistable plastic handle; the other is an infuser basket well-suited for your favorite mug. Both are affordably priced, as are many other Oxo products. The American company also manufactures several highly reviewed tea kettles in both stovetop and electric varieties. 

Maintenance

Perhaps the best part about buying an infuser, aside from getting tasty tea, is how easy they are to use and clean. Now, the exact instructions depend on the type of infuser, but the basic steps are this: first, fill the infuser with 1 teaspoon of tea for every 6 to 8 ounces of water; second, put the infuser into your cup or teapot (some require the water to be poured before the infuser is in place, some after); finally, let the tea steep for the recommended time and then remove the infuser before drinking. That’s it. Quick, easy, delicious. The recommended water temperature and steep time are based on the type of tea you use, not the infuser. Lighter varieties, like green tea and white tea, are best brewed with lower temperatures and less time, while black, herbal, and rooibos require hotter water and more steeping time.

Once finished with your tea, dump the leftover leaves into the trash or compost (unless you plan on reusing them) and rinse the infuser with water. If smaller tea bits cling to the infuser, remove them with an appropriate brush and some dish soap. Many tea infusers are dishwasher safe, which makes the process even easier, so check for this before purchasing. Don't worry if your infuser stains over time. This is completely normal. However, there are several ways to remove stains and slow down the staining process for those who are interested, from cleaning with vinegar, alcohol, or baking soda and even holding stainless steel infusers over gas flames to burn off residue. 

Are infusers different from strainers?

Yes, tea infusers and tea strainers are different tools with different purposes. Tea infusers are a brewing device that is used from start to finish while making a cup of tea. Strainers, on the other hand, come into play after tea is finished brewing. Their sole purpose is to separate tea leaves from the tea, typically accomplished by pouring a teapot over the strainer and into either a mug or another teapot. Many brands and websites use the terms interchangeably even though infusers and strainers are different.

How much tea do I use when brewing?

This question pops up often with tea infusers, especially when people switch over from tea bags. While specific measurements vary depending on the type of tea used, the general rule of thumb is 1 teaspoon of loose tea for every 6 to 8 ounces of water. Adding more tea will lead to a stronger flavor, as will steeping for a longer amount of time. Too much of an extreme for either will lead to an overly bitter cup of tea, however, so keep that in mind when brewing.

Can an infuser be used for other drinks?

For the most part, no. A tea infuser isn't much help for making a drink besides tea or iced tea. In a pinch, some infusers can be used as a cocktail strainer , but it would probably be messier and more difficult than convenient. Tea infusers don't work very well for brewing coffee either. Though basket-shaped infusers may look like pour-over coffee makers , the mesh is often too large to retain coffee grounds and the rate at which water would flow through the infuser would lead to some bad-tasting joe. If you purchase an infuser, it will likely just be used to make tea.

How many times can a tea infuser be reused?

Tea infusers can be used an unlimited number of times, which makes loose leaf tea more sustainable than paper tea bags. General wear and tear can shorten the lifespan of a tea infuser, especially if it's on the cheaper side, but there's no set number of steeps you can get out of it. An infuser should work anytime unless damaged.

This piece was written by  Derek Rose , the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats. He researches a variety of products, from measuring scoops to commercial espresso machines, and interviews field experts for their insight. For this piece, he tested every tea infuser on the list firsthand and wrote reviews about what he liked and disliked about each one. He also researched the differences between tea varietals and methods for brewing loose-leaf tea. Derek received an MFA in Creative Writing from Columbia University and a BA in Communications from Marist College.

Shunan Teng is the founder and CEO of Tea Drunk and an avid tea educator. Tea Drunk was founded in 2013 and has a brick-and-mortar tea house in New York City. Its teaware and Chinese teas can be purchased online.

Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product reviewer. She's an expert on all things home, including kitchen appliances, grills, and other cooking gadgets.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

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The Best Travel Mugs to Keep Drinks Hot or Cold

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

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 Classy Paper Cup Replacement KeepCup Brew Cork (12 Ounce) Read more

An Eco-Friendly Option Miir Climate+ Read more

Staying hydrated can be a battle, especially if you're toting around a bottle of lukewarm water, coffee, or tea. Whether you drink cold drinks or hot ones, a vacuum-insulated beverage holder can keep it at your preferred temperature so that every sip is a joy. There are tons of vacuum-insulated bottles, mugs, and tumblers on the market these days. Most of them are perfectly capable at keeping beverages colder or warmer than room temperature for much longer than a non-insulated bottle, too.

I tested each bottle with both ice water and cold water, sat outside on a patio in indirect sunlight, and then with hot coffee left indoors, where the ambient temperature was 70 degrees. During testing so far, none of the bottles 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 their leak-proofing, exterior coating, and cap. Here are the best travel mugs that impressed us, and some of the rest.

Note that my colleague, Medea Giordano, wrote a piece about the use of lead soldering in the construction of some reusable bottles. Be sure to check out our guides to the Best Reusable Water Bottles , 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 and Joe Ray's rave on how he learned to love pour-over coffee .

Updated March 2024: We've added the Yeti Rambler Vacuum Bottle With Chug Cap, Stanley IceFlow Straw Tumbler, REI Co-op Camp Mug, and GSI Outdoors MicroLite 500 Flip. We've also added information about the use of lead in some bottles' manufacturing, as well as updated pricing and availability throughout.

Special offer for Gear readers: Get WIRED for just $5 ($25 off) . This includes unlimited access to WIRED.com , full Gear coverage, and subscriber-only newsletters. Subscriptions help fund the work we do every day.

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 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.

An Eco-Friendly Option

It doesn't fit a typical car’s cup holder, but if you like an insulated mug that resembles a cup more than a bottle or beer glass, the Climate+ is for you. It has the solid build quality and tough powder-coated finish we’ve come to expect from Miir, in a package that has less of an impact on the environment. Miir says that the Climate+ uses no new plastic (the lid is 100 percent recycled and recyclable), and its insulation uses 25 percent less stainless steel than traditional insulated mugs. It’s also completely BPA-free.

Brian Barrett

Parker Hall

Julian Chokkattu

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 leak-proof too. You should have no concerns throwing it into your laptop bag completely full.

For Camping

When traveling, I want to pack light. Snow Peak’s gorgeous insulated titanium camp mug is less than 4 inches tall, weighs only 4.2 ounces, and has foldaway handles to make it even smaller. Its 450-ml capacity equates to slightly more than 15 fluid ounces. As someone who finds washing mugs to be an interminable hassle, this is the easiest one to travel with—just refill, rinse, and carabiner it to the outside of your bag. I've carried mine up glaciated mountains and down desert trails for six years now, and although the lettering has worn away, the mug itself works as well as it did when new. You can also buy a Snow Peak lid for $14 separately, which is splash-proof and kept my coffee warmer for longer.

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.

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.

Miir Flip Traveler for $28 : The Miir has a tough powder coating with a flip-top lid that is absolutely leak-proof. I couldn’t get one drop of liquid to escape, no matter what I did to this tumbler. It’s narrow enough to fit any cup holder or backpack bottle holder, and it feels tough enough to survive years of abuse. Personally, I also find it quite aesthetically attractive, with its sharp lines and angular cap, compared to its competition. Miir has stated that some of its bottles use lead, and its website states : “MiiR drinkware is frequently tested at a 3rd party accredited lab by COE Resolution CM/RES(2013)9. When MiiR drinkware is tested, lead is not detected. The limit of detection is < 0.002 mg/kg (ppm).” Representatives at Miir declined to clarify if the Flip Traveler is one of its bottles that use lead.

Yeti Rambler Bottle With Chug Cap for $50 : The star of this bottle is what Yeti calls the chug cap, a threaded spout that's between a wide-mouth opening and a more typical sipping hole in size. I enjoyed it quite a lot. When gulping water, it flowed more smoothly and quickly than a sipping hole, but it didn't spill over my face, as a wide-mouth opening can sometimes do when in a hurry. A cap with a plastic handle screws on over it to close up the bottle. The handle is wide and robust. I'd use a carabiner to clip it to a backpack often and never worried about it breaking (36 fluid ounces of water is heavy). If you're a frequent sipper like me, you'll appreciate that it only takes a half turn of the cap to expose the chug cap. Yeti cautions that the chug cap (which can be unscrewed and removed) is unsuitable for hot beverages. Just to make sure I didn't burn my mouth on that initial, exploratory sip of hot coffee, I'd take it off when drinking something hot, which negated some of the bottle's convenience. Like most Yeti bottles, the exterior coating was durable and didn't scratch or dent during testing. Yeti uses lead in its manufacturing .

Stanley IceFlow Tumbler for $30 : Rather than a long straw, the IceFlow has a stubby, flip-open straw about an inch long that's built into the cap. It was easy to manipulate with my thumb to flip it out, which I appreciated when I was hot and sweaty after a workout and didn't want to fumble with a hard-to-use cap. Its small diameter meant that I couldn't gulp water, though, only sip a steady trickle. The carry handle was big enough to use while wearing puffy gloves this past winter, and it flips down and out of the way when you don't need it. Both are a very nice touch that outshine most other bottles' handles. Like Stanley's other bottles, its exterior coating is tough enough that I noticed no scratches or wear. Stanley uses lead in its manufacturing process .

Contigo Luxe Autoseal for $36 : What makes the Contigo “automatic” is a button on the side of the lid that opens the sipping hole. There’s a lock to prevent the button from opening the hole, too. With or without the lock activated, the Contigo never leaked a single drop. Some buyers have complained that the metal lid gets too hot, but I filled up the Luxe Autoseal with scorching, molten coffee, and the lid barely even got lukewarm. Contigo is also among the manufacturers that uses a lead solder bead in its construction. When reached for comment, a company representative said, “The bead is covered and insulated by multiple layers—it never comes in contact with users or liquids in the bottle—and cannot be accessed unless the bottle is fully deconstructed. No traces of lead are found on or in the bottle that would be exposed to the consumer or the beverages in the bottle.”

KeepCup Thermal for $26 : This is the answer to those who like the KeepCup LongPlay's ergonomic shape and paper-cup-imitating feel but long for a cup that can keep their coffee warmer for longer. The Thermal is, like most of the vessels in this guide, vacuum-insulated stainless steel that insulates against heat loss or, in the case of cold beverages, heat gain. It shares the Brew Cork's slightly dribbly lid, although it loses some of the novelty of the Brew Cork's glass.

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 own is a perfectly fine option that doesn't particularly stand out. REI didn't attempt any gimmicks with its lid, which is a durable piece of thick plastic with an open hole for sipping and a smaller hole for airflow (so that sipping is smooth). You can't just toss it in a backpack or on the floor of your car without it leaking, but for a camp mug, that's fine. They're better suited for use in camp, a motorhome, or on a desk anyway, in my opinion. The exterior coating was tough enough to show no scratches, even after knocking it over a few times outside, and the REI graphics were tasteful and attractive, in my opinion.

Miir Camp Cup for $28: Miir's insulated coffee mug doesn't leak, it insulates hot and cold drinks just fine, and the coating is as tough as any Miir. But it's up against tough competition, and for the same money the Hydro Flask Mug is a bit nicer. The Miir lacks the Hydro Flask's stainless steel rim, and the transparent plastic lid feels a little cheap. The sliding opening on the lid felt like just an extra step to operate each time I wanted a sip.

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler for $35 : The rounded handle is comfortable to hold, which is important in an 18.4-ounce mug loaded with up to 32 fluid ounces of drink. Like most Hydro Flask products, it comes with the same bomb-proof powder coating (in optional soft, pastel colors) that resists scratches and chips very well, plus the addition of a straw poking through its lid. There's also a 40-fluid-ounce version for $40 .

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, particularly the incredibly basic lid, but it's more than a little endearing. There's a brushed stainless steel version and, my favorite, a "blue speckle" that imitates the classic enameled blue camp cups of past generations, although both of these colors are plain steel. Other colors come in a more durable-seeming pebbled coating.

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug for $29 : The stainless-steel interior is BPA-free and has a wide-mouth opening. 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.

Rambler Stackable Cup for $30 : This insulated cup holds 16 fluid ounces, which is the capacity of a typical tall drinking glass. The best aspect of this is that you can stack several of them, so you can keep a bunch in your pantry without taking up much room. It comes with Yeti's durable powder coating, too, making them among the toughest options out there.

Hydro Flask Mug for $28: The Hydro Flask Mug merges a durable powder-coated, vacuum-insulated construction with the traditional, handle-sporting shape of a diner or camp mug. Hydro Flask does it better than most. The stainless steel rim makes it nicer to sip from than competitors' mugs, and it comes with Hydro Flask's usual drip-proof lid and bomber-tough powder coating that is nearly impossible to scratch. But it is more at home on a desk than at a campsite or in a car's cup holder, which it can't fit into.

GSI Outdoors MicroLite 500 Flip for $30 : 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 felt gimmicky and unnecessary. 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. The overly complex cap was harder to hand wash than most caps, although the dishwasher could clean the cap without issue. What saves the MicroLite 500 is the stainless steel rim, which felt nice to drink from when the cap was removed, plus the array of available colors in durable, non-scratch coatings. Minus the cap, the bottle was fairly nice, if not particularly a standout among the competition. There's a MicroLite 500 With Twist Lid for $30 that does away with the gimmicky cap and has a simpler lid, although the carry strap is narrow and not as robust as I'd have liked.

Owala FreeSip for $28 : Product reviewer Medea Giordano loved the FreeSip ( 9/10, WIRED Recommends ) for its dual drink spouts: one open hole, plus a built-in straw. If you've got mobility or pain issues that make tilting your head a hassle, this mug is a solid performer. It's easy to grip too, with its flattened sides, which can come in handy for those with reduced hand dexterity.

OtterBox Elevation for $30 : At 8.5 inches tall, the Elevation 20 looks a lot bigger than it is. It has a copper lining that the company says helps better maintain your beverage’s perfect temperature, although I saw no noticeable difference in the Elevation's temperature-holding abilities. The clear press-on lid has a locking mechanism that you can switch it out for a straw lid or a French press lid if you’re in a hurry. It comes in a variety of stunning hues. OfferBox uses lead in its construction. When reached for comment, a company representative said, “ The seal is not open or accessible to the end user, and at no time, under intended use, could it come into contact with the end user. The OtterBox Elevation tumbler meets all applicable US regulatory requirements.”

Purist Mover for $48 : Ever empty a stainless-steel bottle of one beverage and fill it up with a different one, only to notice that the taste of the first drink lingers? The Purist has applied a thin layer of glass over the interior of the Mover, which keeps this taste transfer from happening. You can down a mug full of coffee and then fill it with herbal tea without risking a coffee aftertaste. I didn’t experience leaks from the Element top, but a high number of customers have reported their Purist lids leaking over time. I’ll keep using the Purist and update this page with information on how it performs.

S'well Traveler Tumbler for $30 : S’well boasts that its tumblers are triple-walled, but I'm not convinced that has much real-world benefit over a normal double-walled tumbler. It didn't keep beverages remarkably colder or hotter than its competitors, for example. What really sets the S’well apart are its designs. There are 12 finishes, from plain colors and bare stainless steel to elaborate patterns, such as blue marble and faux wood, and a slide-open lid so you don’t have to pop it off every time you want a swig of coffee.

Stanley Classic Vacuum Pint for $26 : Stanley’s vacuum pint includes a press-on lid with a deeply pebbled exterior that’s reminiscent of classic flasks. Although it’s billed as a 16-ounce pint, Stanley has added a few extra ounces to accommodate foam (or splashing hot coffee), and the lid comes with a slide-in metal bottle opener if you like to go immediately from work to happy hour. Stanley uses lead in its manufacturing process .

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 $18 : Greens Steel’s Beast tumbler has more than 67,000 positive reviews on Amazon and is, at least for me, one of the top hits when I search Amazon for an insulated tumbler. But the rubber seal around the lid is thin and easily comes out of place. I was ready to write the Beast off when it was leaking like a sieve, but after I adjusted the seal, it was reasonably leak-proof. Sometimes it dribbles, sometimes it doesn’t, depending on whether the seal stays put when you’re attaching the lid. The exterior color coating is not as durable as the Klean, Hydro Flask, Yeti, or Fellow. It did come with a regular metal straw, a thick metal milkshake straw, and a cleaner brush.

Snow Peak Kanpai 500-ml Bottle for $98 : Unlike most of Snow Peak’s line of camping and backpacking gear, the Kanpai is stainless steel, not titanium, and it’s not made in Japan. It’s a double-walled, insulated stainless-steel tumbler with a glossy finish, and it comes with three lids, for some unnecessary reason. There’s a white screw-on lid that needs to be removed every time you want a drink, and a black version of the same lid. The third lid—one with a sipping hole that can be closed with a sliding latch—leaks if the Kanpai tips over. It took damage in a mere 3-foot drop when it was empty, landing on its rim, which flattened. A steel bottle, especially one with no liquid in it, should be able to survive that without battle scars.

Toaks Titanium Double Wall 450ML Cup for $40: More often than not, I champion Toaks gear as an affordable source of titanium camp cookware compared to Snow Peak and Evernew and MSR, which tend to be more expensive. But this mug is only $10 less than the Snow Peak mug we recommend above, and its finishing is rougher.

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Best Travel Tea Sets

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Are you a tea lover always on the move? Do you relish the thought of sipping your favorite tea, no matter where you are? If these questions resonate with you, you’ve hit the jackpot.

A quality travel tea set is a must-have for any tea enthusiast. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about maintaining that comforting ritual, even miles away from home.

Whether you’re in a bustling city or amidst tranquil nature, a travel tea set ensures your beloved tea ritual follows you.

So, let’s explore these top picks, crafted for the tea lover on the go.

7 Best Travel Tea Sets Reviewed

Sanjh travel tea set for two.

For the tea enthusiast who is always on the go, the Sanjh Travel Tea Set for Two is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, catering to various settings like the office, picnics, travel, or outdoor adventures.

This review evaluates the tea set from a user’s perspective, considering its design, functionality, and overall value.

Key Features and User Experience

• All-In-One Design : The set includes two large 4-ounce ceramic cups, an infuser, a tea cloth, and a durable hard-shell case. This comprehensive ensemble meets all the basic needs for a tea ceremony on the go. The inclusion of a tea cloth is particularly thoughtful for spill management.
• Portability : The compact dimensions (6.06 x 4.25 x 4.13 inches) and light weight (1.16 pounds) make it ideal for travel. It fits easily into a backpack or suitcase, making it a convenient choice for office, hotel stays, picnics, camping, and hiking.
• Ease of Cleaning : The cups have a glazed interior for a smooth finish, making them easy to clean with just a damp cloth. This feature is a significant advantage for travelers who may not always have access to thorough washing facilities.
• Sturdy and Chic Design : The Japanese-inspired tea cup set with a vertical black pattern is not only visually appealing but also sturdy with a stable bottom. This design choice offers a blend of aesthetic appeal and practicality.
• Versatility and Thoughtfulness : The set is suitable for Chinese Kung fu tea ceremonies or as a Giawan tea set. Its versatility makes it an excellent gift for any tea lover.
• Modern Compact Design : The perfect-sized cups and food-grade filter infuser, combined with a heat-insulating lid that doubles as a tea tray, demonstrate a thoughtful, user-centric design.
• Quality and Craftsmanship : Crafted with precision and attention to detail in China, known for its rich tea culture, the set promises a high-quality and authentic tea experience.

Comparative Analysis

Compared to other travel tea sets on the market, the Sanjh Travel Tea Set stands out for its balance of traditional elements and modern design. Its sturdy construction, combined with its lightweight and compact nature, sets it apart from competitors, many of which compromise on either durability or portability.

Evolution and Improvements

Compared to earlier models and other options available, the Sanjh Travel Tea Set has evolved to offer a more compact and user-friendly design without compromising on the aesthetic and cultural aspects of a traditional tea set. The inclusion of a hard-shell case is a notable improvement, enhancing the set’s durability and portability.

Pros and Cons

• Comprehensive set with all necessary components.
• Easy to transport and clean.
• Stylish and robust design.
• Versatile for various tea drinking traditions.
• High-quality materials and craftsmanship.
• Limited capacity of cups might not suit those preferring larger servings.
• Ceramic material, while sturdy, requires careful handling to avoid breakage.

Final Verdict

With a user rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and ranking #177 in Tea Sets, the Sanjh Travel Tea Set for Two is an excellent choice for tea lovers who value both functionality and style. Its design choices reflect a deep understanding of the needs of tea drinkers on the move, making it the best overall option for portable tea sets.

Generic Chinese Ceramic Travel Tea Set

For those who find solace in tea rituals, the Generic Chinese Ceramic Travel Tea Set offers a blend of tradition and convenience. This set, perfect for various scenarios like the office, outdoor gatherings, or solitary contemplation, has been chosen for its exemplary craftsmanship and user-friendly features.

• All-Encompassing Set : The package includes a teapot, tea infuser, three teacups, a tea can, and a portable travel bag. This complete set caters to every need of a tea enthusiast, whether alone or in the company of friends.
• Quality Craftsmanship : Crafted from quality materials, this set has undergone high-temperature firing (1250 ℃ to 1400 ℃), showcasing the thousand-year-old Chinese pottery craft. The result is a set that not only looks elegant and simple but also promises durability.
• Portability and Convenience : Measuring 4″D x 10″W x 6″H and weighing just 1.2 pounds, the set is designed for easy transportation. The inclusion of a compact travel bag adds to its portability, making it an ideal choice for short travels or outdoor tea sessions.
• Safe and Versatile : Made from high-grade porcelain, the set is BPA-free, ensuring health and safety. It’s versatile enough to make various types of tea, including green, black, scented, craft, or fruit tea.
• Kung Fu Tea Set : Embodying the essence of Chinese tea culture, this set offers a smooth touch and a luxurious appearance, enhancing the experience of traditional Kung Fu tea ceremonies.
• Ideal Gift Choice : The set’s aesthetic appeal and functionality make it an amazing gift for anyone who cherishes leisurely tea times.

In comparison to other travel tea sets, this Generic Chinese Ceramic Travel Tea Set stands out for its authentic Chinese pottery craftsmanship and its versatility in tea-making. The high-temperature firing process gives it an edge over competitors in terms of durability and quality.

Compared to previous models and market alternatives, this set reflects a deep understanding of the balance between traditional tea culture and the modern need for portability. The addition of a travel bag is a thoughtful touch, addressing the needs of contemporary tea lovers who value mobility.

• Comprehensive tea set with essential components.
• Lightweight and easy to transport.
• Crafted using traditional Chinese pottery techniques.
• Versatile for different types of tea.
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
• Limited to only one color option (Orlange).
• Ceramic construction, while elegant, requires careful handling.

With a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars and ranked #267 in Tea Sets, the Generic Chinese Ceramic Travel Tea Set is an exemplary choice for those seeking a portable yet authentic tea experience. Its design and craftsmanship cater to both traditional tea ceremony enthusiasts and modern, on-the-go lifestyles.

FengHong Ceramics Portable Travel Tea Set

For tea enthusiasts who appreciate both tradition and practicality, the FengHong Ceramics Portable Travel Tea Set emerges as an exceptional choice. This set, well-suited for various settings such as home, office, outdoor, or camping, stands out for its unique material and design.

This review provides an in-depth evaluation from a user’s perspective, backed by expertise in tea culture.

• Comprehensive Set : The package includes a 10-ounce teapot, six 1.35-ounce mini cups, and a travel shockproof storage bag. This combination makes it an all-in-one solution for tea lovers who appreciate variety and enjoy sharing their tea experience with others.
• Exceptional Material : The set is made from 100% handmade purple clay, a material superior to common ceramic for tea-making. Purple clay, originating from Dehua, Quanzhou – China’s porcelain capital, adds a unique quality to the tea brewed in it.
• Classically Chinese Design : The set boasts classic Chinese elements, such as auspicious cloud patterns on the teapot cap and a wooden hand pad around the teapot’s waist, serving as scald-proofing. This design not only adds to the aesthetic but also enhances functionality.
• Portability and Capacity : Despite its compact size, akin to a smartphone, the set includes six mini cups, making it perfect for family use or multiple guests. Its portable nature makes it ideal for travel, outdoor activities, and camping.
• Shockproof Storage Bag : The inclusion of a shockproof storage bag ensures the safety and integrity of the set during travel. This thoughtful addition makes it highly suitable for on-the-go tea sessions.

Compared to other travel tea sets, the FengHong Ceramics set is unique for its purple clay construction, which is renowned for enhancing the flavor of tea. Its design, which combines traditional Chinese elements with modern functionality, sets it apart from its competitors.

This travel tea set represents an evolution in combining traditional tea culture with modern-day needs. The choice of purple clay and the inclusion of a shockproof storage bag reflect an understanding of the requirements of contemporary tea drinkers who are often on the move.

• Unique purple clay material enhances tea flavor.
• Compact and portable, ideal for various settings.
• Beautiful, traditional Chinese design with functional features.
• Suitable for individual use or sharing with multiple people.
• Limited color option (black only).
• Mini cups may be too small for some users’ preferences.

With a customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars and a ranking of #596 in Tea Sets, the FengHong Ceramics Portable Travel Tea Set is an excellent option for those seeking a balance between traditional tea-making and portability. Its thoughtful design and quality materials make it a standout choice in its category.

Lifavor Portable Chinese Gongfu Tea Set

For tea enthusiasts who appreciate the elegance of Gongfu tea ceremonies and the convenience of portability, the Lifavor Portable Chinese Gongfu Tea Set presents a perfect solution. This set, ideal for various environments like picnics, travel, or friends’ gatherings, has been chosen for its exquisite craftsmanship and user-friendly design.

This review will delve into its features, benefits, and suitability from an informed and experienced perspective.

• Premium Material and Craftsmanship : Each piece of the set is crafted from high-grade kaolinite, fired at high temperatures, and meticulously carved by artisans. This process ensures durability and quality, delivering a product that is both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting.
• Versatility and Gift Potential : This handmade tea set is an ideal gift for various occasions, conveying a sense of happiness and sophistication. The inclusion of a portable bag enhances its suitability for travel, picnics, and indoor or outdoor use.
• Eco-Friendly and Easy to Clean : The bamboo tea tray, eco-friendly and made from recycled materials, features a detachable design with multiple drainage holes, simplifying the cleaning process and ensuring sustainability.
• Exquisite Design and Functionality : The tea set’s design allows for excellent brewing, retaining the original flavor and fragrance of the tea. A transparent, green, and safe glaze coats the surface, preventing tea stains and enhancing the visual appeal.
• Comprehensive Package : The set includes a teapot, four teacups, a detachable tea tray, tea tongs and towel, and a portable bag. It’s made of natural, high-grade kaolinite and is cadmium-free and lead-free, passing SGS testing for safety.
• Reliable Customer Service : Lifavor’s commitment to quality is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and dedicated customer support, offering peace of mind for purchasers.

Compared to other portable tea sets, the Lifavor set stands out for its combination of traditional Gongfu tea elements with modern, eco-friendly materials and portable design. The high-grade kaolinite material and the unique glazing technique set it apart from competitors, offering both beauty and functionality.

The Lifavor Tea Set reflects a thoughtful evolution in portable tea sets, balancing traditional Chinese tea ceremony elements with the needs of modern tea drinkers. The inclusion of a bamboo tray and a portable bag are significant improvements, catering to the lifestyle of contemporary users.

• High-quality kaolinite construction.
• Suitable for various settings and as a gift.
• Easy to clean with an eco-friendly bamboo tray.
• Exquisitely designed for optimal tea brewing.
• Comprehensive set with safety certifications.
• The teapot’s size may not cater to larger gatherings.
• Requires careful handling due to the delicate nature of the materials.

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars and ranking #243 in Tea Sets, the Lifavor Portable Chinese Gongfu Tea Set is an excellent choice for those seeking elegance and functionality in a tea set. Its design, material, and craftsmanship make it a top pick for both tea connoisseurs and casual drinkers.

KEYDUACU Chinese Tea Set

The KEYDUACU Chinese Tea Set , a travel-friendly and handmade Ge kiln ceramic set, is tailored for tea enthusiasts who value both aesthetics and functionality. Suitable for various settings like home, office, or as a thoughtful gift, this set stands out for its quality and practical design.

This review explores the set’s unique features, performance, and suitability from a user’s perspective, utilizing expert knowledge in tea culture and ceramic craftsmanship.

• High-Quality Ceramic Material : The set is made of durable, high-quality ceramic, known for its hardness, beauty, and practicality. The ceramic’s high heat resistance ensures safe use, a crucial factor for frequent users.
• Set Composition : It includes a teapot and six teacups, all housed in a portable gift bag. This composition makes it not only a functional tea set but also an excellent gift option.
• Ease of Portability : Measuring 11.81″D x 15.15″W x 4.52″H and weighing 4.38 pounds, the set is designed for ease of storage and transport, making it ideal for both home use and travel.
• Versatility : The tea set is perfect for brewing various types of tea such as black tea, pu-erh, and oolong, catering to diverse tea preferences. Its suitability for multiple environments makes it a versatile choice for any tea lover.
• Aesthetic Appeal : The dark green color and the distinctive Ge kiln ceramic pattern give the set an elegant and unique appearance, making it a stylish addition to any tea session.
• Dishwasher Safe : The set’s compatibility with dishwashers adds to its convenience, simplifying the cleaning process.

Compared to other tea sets in the market, the KEYDUACU Chinese Tea Set distinguishes itself with its handmade Ge kiln ceramic, offering a unique aesthetic that combines traditional Chinese elements with modern functionality. The set’s heat resistance and dishwasher-safe features provide an edge over competitors.

The KEYDUACU Chinese Tea Set reflects an evolution in ceramic tea sets, balancing traditional craftsmanship with the needs of modern users. The inclusion of a portable bag and the set’s suitability for various tea types demonstrate an understanding of the diverse preferences of tea enthusiasts.

• Durable and high-quality ceramic construction.
• Compact and portable with a convenient carrying bag.
• Suitable for brewing a variety of teas.
• Elegant design, making it an ideal gift.
• Easy to clean and maintain.
• Slightly heavier than other travel tea sets.
• Limited customer reviews, with a rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars.

With its unique blend of traditional aesthetics and practical design, the KEYDUACU Chinese Tea Set is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish yet functional tea set. It caters well to various settings and occasions, making it a versatile addition to any tea collection.

LURRIER Porcelain Chinese Gongfu Tea Set

The LURRIER Porcelain Chinese Gongfu Tea Set , a beautifully crafted and portable set, offers a unique blend of traditional tea culture and modern design. With its high customer rating and distinctive features, this set is ideal for various settings, including travel, home, gifting, outdoor activities, and office use.

This review delves into its features, usability, and overall appeal, backed by expertise in tea culture and porcelain craftsmanship.

• Patented Distinctive Design : This set stands out with its rotatable teapot, allowing for a unique brewing experience. The design integrates a lazy tea set concept, where the strainer doesn’t need to be removed, offering a convenient and engaging tea-making process.
• Outstanding Exterior and Functionality : The tea set’s minimalism design pays homage to Chinese Tea Tao. The frosted surface enhances tactile sensation, while the wooden handle prevents hot water spillage. A hidden strainer in the teapot effectively retains tea leaves.
• Versatility and Gift Suitability : Suitable for brewing various tea types, including black, Pu-er, Oolong, and Green Tea. Its versatility and aesthetic appeal make it an ideal gift for various occasions.
• Use Scene Adaptability : Designed for travel, outdoor activities, private parties, and business or family gifts, this set is a top choice for brewing different kinds of tea, catering to diverse preferences and occasions.
• Customer Service Commitment : LURRIER offers a 30-day free return and replacement policy, ensuring a risk-free purchase and addressing any concerns promptly.

Compared to other tea sets, the LURRIER Porcelain Chinese Gongfu Tea Set distinguishes itself with its patented rotating design and the marriage of functionality and aesthetics. Its high-quality porcelain material and thoughtful design elements set it apart from competitors, emphasizing both usability and beauty.

The LURRIER Porcelain Chinese Gongfu Tea Set represents a significant advancement in tea set design, combining traditional elements with modern innovation. The rotating teapot feature is a unique addition that enhances the tea-making experience, reflecting an understanding of the evolving needs and preferences of tea enthusiasts.

• Innovative rotating teapot design for a unique tea experience.
• High-quality porcelain material with a tactile frosted surface.
• Versatile for various tea types and occasions.
• Ideal as a thoughtful and practical gift.
• Strong customer service support.
• Not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning.
• The unique rotating mechanism may require gentle handling.

With a high customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars and a rank of #9 in Tea Sets, the LURRIER set is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of traditional tea culture and innovative design. Its quality, functionality, and aesthetics make it a standout choice for various use scenarios.

KEDRIAN Tea Gift Box Set

The KEDRIAN Tea Gift Box Set , designed for tea enthusiasts, merges convenience with a touch of personal care. This set is perfect for those looking to comfort a friend, surprise a tea lover, or offer a thoughtful gift on special occasions.

This review evaluates the set’s features, quality, and suitability from a user’s perspective, providing insights based on expertise in tea culture and gifting.

• Perfect Tea Gift Set : The set is ideal for conveying warmth and care, making it a great choice for sick care packages or special occasion gifts. Its high rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 80 reviews underlines its appeal as a thoughtful and appreciated gift.
• Complete Set Contents : It includes an insulated tumbler, a variety of 14 tea bags, a honey stirrer, a tea strainer, and a heartfelt card. The diversity of tea bags allows tea lovers to explore different flavors.
• Insulated Tumbler Quality : The tumbler, made from food-grade stainless steel with double-wall insulation, keeps beverages at the desired temperature for hours, enhancing the tea-drinking experience.
• Gift-Ready Packaging : The set comes in beautiful packaging, eliminating the need for separate gift wrapping. This feature adds convenience and makes it an instantly presentable gift.
• Design and Assembly : Crafted with love in Austin, TX, this premium tea gift set is tailored for both men and women, offering a way to express love, appreciation, and support to someone special.
• Premium Quality Materials : The choice of materials, including the stainless steel tumbler and the selection of hand-picked tea bags, emphasizes the set’s premium quality.

Compared to other tea gift sets, the KEDRIAN Tea Gift Box Set stands out for its comprehensive offering, which includes not just tea but also an insulated tumbler and other tea-drinking essentials. Its combination of practicality and sentimental value sets it apart from competitors.

The KEDRIAN Tea Gift Box Set reflects a modern approach to tea gifting, combining practical tea-drinking items with a touch of personal sentiment. The inclusion of an insulated tumbler and a variety of tea bags are notable improvements over traditional tea sets, catering to contemporary gifting needs.

• Well-rounded gift set with multiple tea-related items.
• High-quality, insulated tumbler for temperature retention.
• Beautiful, ready-to-gift packaging.
• Variety of tea flavors to cater to different preferences.
• Thoughtfully designed and assembled.
• Limited to tea bags, which might not appeal to loose-leaf tea aficionados.
• The set focuses more on being a gift rather than for personal use.

With its excellent customer reviews and ranking at #53 in Tea Sets, the KEDRIAN Tea Gift Box Set is a top choice for those seeking a comprehensive and thoughtful tea gift. Its quality, design, and packaging make it an outstanding gift option for tea lovers.

Buying Guide FAQs

What makes these travel tea sets stand out? It’s all about portability, durability, and style. Each set on this list is chosen for its ease of travel. They’re compact, lightweight, and designed to withstand the rigors of the road. Plus, they’re not just functional; they’re fashionable too.

Whether you prefer a classic look or something more modern, there’s a set for every taste. From the robust materials to the elegant designs, these sets promise a perfect tea experience, anywhere, anytime.

Finally, let’s tackle some Frequently Asked Questions .

You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.

Which materials are preferable for a durable travel tea set?

For durability in travel tea sets, the most suitable materials include stainless steel, reinforced ceramics, and tempered glass. Stainless steel stands out for its robustness, rust, and corrosion resistance. Reinforced ceramics, though more delicate than metal, provide enhanced strength and chip resistance. Tempered glass, less breakable than regular glass, withstands temperature variations effectively. Each material offers unique benefits, from heat retention and visual appeal to maintaining the taste quality of the tea.

What features distinguish a high-quality travel tea set for picnics?

A high-quality travel tea set for picnics is distinguished by several key features. It should be portable, featuring a compact and lightweight design for easy transport. Durability is crucial, so it’s made from sturdy materials that can endure the rigors of travel. Good heat retention is important to keep the tea warm, alongside ease of cleaning, with dishwasher-safe components being a plus. A complete set including cups, a teapot, and a storage case is ideal, and aesthetic appeal enhances the overall picnic experience.

How does one efficiently utilize a Gongfu tea set while traveling?

To efficiently use a Gongfu tea set while traveling, one should opt for a smaller, travel-designed set. Pre-measuring and packing the tea leaves helps in preparation. Using a thermometer or an electric kettle with temperature control can ensure the water is at the right temperature. Simplifying the Gongfu brewing steps without compromising the ritual’s essence is key, and having a secure, protective case for the set ensures safe transportation.

Can you recommend tea set brands known for their travel-friendly designs?

Brands that are known for producing travel-friendly tea sets include Teavivre, known for its portable sets, Kamjove, which offers modern travel Gongfu tea sets, and Samadoyo, specializing in functional yet elegant tea sets suitable for travel purposes.

What are the key components to look for in a travel tea set with an infuser?

In a travel tea set with an infuser, it’s important to have a high-quality infuser, preferably made of stainless steel or BPA-free plastic. The infuser should be a fine mesh to prevent leaves from escaping and sized appropriately to fit well in the teapot or cup. Additionally, it should be easy to clean, ideally able to be dismantled for thorough cleaning.

What should be considered when choosing a travel tea set with a kettle?

When selecting a travel tea set with a kettle, one should consider the size and weight of the kettle, ensuring it’s lightweight and compact for ease of travel. It’s also important to check if the kettle is compatible with various heat sources, like electric stoves or campfires. Materials like stainless steel or aluminum are preferable for durability and efficient heat conduction. Lastly, safety features such as a secure lid and heat-resistant handles are essential for safe and convenient use.

Remember…

When hunting for the ideal travel tea set, several key factors come into play. First, consider material durability. You want a set that can handle the journey, be it ceramic, glass, or stainless steel. Size and weight are crucial too.

Your set should be compact enough for easy packing, yet spacious enough for a satisfying brew. Also, think about ease of cleaning. You need a set that’s as easy to maintain as it is to use.

Don’t forget the aesthetic appeal. Your tea set should not only function well but also please the eye. And then there’s the cultural significance. Different styles reflect different tea traditions. From Chinese Gongfu to Japanese ceremonies, each set has its story.

Also make sure to get other travel essentials to accompany your tea sets.

So, choose one that resonates with your tea culture or inspires you to explore new ones. Remember, the right travel tea set enhances your tea experience, wherever you are.

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Dan Claydon

17 Best Travel Coffee Mugs for Hot and Cold Drinks

Commute with your coffee under control.

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.

For many of us, coffee is a constant companion — and that means you'll want a trusty travel mug as you head out the door. Whether you prefer a piping hot cup from your drip coffee maker or single-serve coffeemaker , a refill at Starbucks or a dose of joe from your cold brew coffee maker , your travel coffee mug should handle it all without leaking. Fortunately, there's tons of options out there, including stainless steel coffee thermoses to keep your beverages cool and ones with straws for easy sipping.

Over the years, the pros in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab have tested 45 different travel mugs for hot and cold temperature retention, durability, resistance to leakage, ease of use and more. In our most recent tests, we called in samples of the latest travel mugs and used them both in the office and on our commutes to see how well they held up. We noted how they felt, how they traveled and, unavoidably, how they held up when dropped. Ahead, we rounded up the best travel coffee mugs based on picks that performed well during testing or come from brands that we trust.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Travel Coffee Mug

Zojirushi 16-ounce stainless steel mug.

Best Value Travel Coffee Mug

Juro stainless steel vacuum insulated tumbler.

Best No-Spill Travel Coffee Mug

Stanley classic trigger action travel mug.

Best Travel Coffee Mug for Espresso Drinks

Avana sedona stainless steel thermal tumbler.

Easiest to Clean Leak-Resistant Travel Coffee Mug

Oxo good grips 16-oz travel coffee mug with leakproof simplyclean lid.

Best Travel Coffee Mug with Carrying Strap

Hydro flask flex sip lid coffee flask.

Best Self-Heating Travel Coffee Mug

Smrtmugg heated coffee mug.

Best Wide-Mouthed Travel Coffee Mug

S'well stainless steel traveler.

Best Locking-Lid Travel Coffee Mug

Contigo luxe autoseal vacuum-insulated mug.

Best Travel Coffee Mug with Handle

Yeti rambler mug with lid.

Read on for more information on our testing process as well as for tips on what to look for when shopping for a travel coffee mug. For more ideas on what to fill your cup with, check out these coffee recipes to make at home .

Zojirushi's travel mug with a locking lid opens with the push of a button but won't leak or spill (even in a backpack). It will keep hot coffee hot — in fact, the brand is so confident that it offers a five-year warranty on heat retention. Iced coffee fans will appreciate that the mouth is large enough to handle big ice cubes for that extra chill.

Our tester noted that the vacuum-sealed lid keeps water cold all day: "I always grab it from my backpack and think, 'There's no way this could still possibly be cool anymore,' and I'm always pleasantly surprised." We also like the slim design, which is easy to grip and fits nicely into backpacks or totes. It comes in several colors and a 12-ounce version.

This stainless steel mug is a great affordable option, especially considering its large 20-ounce size. What's more, it claims to retain the temperature of your coffee for up to six hours. Online reviewers like that it fits easily into car holders and won't sweat when filled with ice. The tumbler includes two lids: The featured slider lid as well as a flip-style lid , so you can choose which you prefer for the beverage you're drinking. It also comes with a reusable straw and a straw cleaner, though we found the straw was short and inconvenient to use.

Stanley has been in the thermal carafe game since 1913. This travel coffee mug delivers the company's insulated design and also includes a push-button "trigger action" lid that keeps the mug sealed unless pushed. We liked that it means the spout stays closed when you're not hands-on . Our pros did note that it requires some level of strength and dexterity to hold the button while sipping. This mug is available in several colors (even camo!) and in a 20-ounce size.

This 10-ounce travel mug from Avana is perfectly sized for espresso-based drinks, but it's also available in 20-ounce and 30-ounce versions. Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab Director Nicole Papantoniou likes that the simple two-piece design is easy to clean because the lid is just one solid piece, unlike many other lids. This is particularly helpful if you like coffee drinks with foam, like latte beverages , that can gunk up lids over time. The contoured mouthpiece makes sipping easy, but it doesn't seal closed, so watch out for leaks. The double-walled insulated construction keeps drinks hot or cold and helps prevent condensation from collecting on the outside.

We love when kitchen gear comes apart for a thorough cleaning, but would rather skip the guesswork that can follow when it's time to reassemble. The OXO travel coffee mug with SimplyClean lid solves this pain point: The four-piece lid is color-coded, numbered and etched with assembly instructions . It's easy to take apart and clean by hand (or in the dishwasher), and simple to put back together for your next cup. Never mind, it's also comfortable to hold. The mug comes in four other colors as well as a 20-ounce size.

Hydro Flask has a huge following when it comes to water bottles — in fact, we named the brand our best stainless steel water bottle — and we're fans of its coffee mugs (called coffee flasks), too . GH Lab tests found that its stainless steel, vacuum-insulated body kept drinks hot and cold for hours, and it was quite leakproof. Hydro Flask also offers a separate wide-mouth lid , which can be handy for cold beverages. (The included lid twists to open and close.) But, be careful drinking hot beverages with a wide mouth as it can spill easily. It's available in a range of colors as well as 16- and 20-ounce sizes , and the little handle helps make it easier to transport.

This SmrtMugg travel mug — rated our best self-heating travel mug — has built-in heat technology to keep coffee hot. Its large battery on the bottom — the manufacturer claims a 10-hour battery life — kept coffee hot (above the target temp of 135˚F) for the full four hours of our Lab tests . Once you get the hang of the controls at the bottom of the mug, the clear digital readout is helpful in setting the temperature and turning off the mug. This travel mug also aced our leak tests. Our tester noted that while the push-button lid is easy to use, the edge of the button can bump your lip while drinking.

This sleek 16-ounce bottle has been redesigned to fit more comfortably in your hand. Though we have not tested this model in the Lab, our pros appreciate that i ts large size and wide mouth can easily fit ice cubes , which makes it a great choice for frequent iced coffee drinkers. We have also found other S'well products to be good at maintaining temperatures. It seals shut and is leakproof; plus, it will keep your drinks cold (or hot!) all day. The S'well comes in a ton of color options as well as 12-ounce and 20-ounce sizes.

This coffee mug from Contigo is super comfortable in your hands, and it has a unique locking feature that makes it leak- and spill-proof. When you want to sip (or chug) your coffee, just press the button to release the seal. During your commute, you can lock the button so you don't accidentally press it while on the go . It's also completely dishwasher-safe, even the lid. One tester did note that with hot beverages, the lid can feel too hot to handle.

This popular Yeti mug looks just like a traditional coffee mug, but it's designed to keep your drinks hot or cold and comes with a lid to prevent unnecessary spills. The sturdy and comfortable handle is large enough for even wide hands. It's available in a dozen different colors as well as sizes from 10- to 30 ounces. Another bonus is that when you buy from the Yeti site, you can customize your product with a short text, a monogram or a logo. Our tester found that the lid slides open easily but noted that it's not leakproof. The brand has also introduced the Rambler Stronghold lid , which screws on (rather than presses in), which we're actively testing in the Lab.

Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug

This little cylinder makes a statement, with testers loving how compact it was. The sleek stainless steel shell contains a ceramic liner intended to keep your coffee free of metallic flavors. The screw top reveals a wide mouth that you can sip from any angle and is large enough for adding ice . It comes in seven additional colors as well as a smaller, 12-ounce size.

W&P Porter Ceramic Mug with Protective Silicone Sleeve

Papantoniou likes that the inside of this travel mug is easy-to-clean porcelain, which generally helps to prevent buildup over time that can negatively impart flavors . She also noted that it keeps coffee "nice and hot right off the bat." It includes a simple shape and a silicone sleeve for a comfortable non-slip grip. It comes in several colors and a couple of terrazzo prints . It's also available in a 16-ounce size.

Starbucks Classic Green & White Traveler Tumbler Coffee Mug

Starbucks fans will appreciate that they can purchase this mug online rather than solely in the stores. The ceramic mug is easy to use — the lid just pops into place and is surrounded by a rubber seal to help keep it (and the coffee) in place — and easy to clean . "It keeps coffee warm like a standard ceramic mug would, and the lid helps to keep things a little warmer for longer," our tester says. "I like that it's not scalding hot like in a metal mug, so I can enjoy my coffee without burning my mouth." The 12-oz size is perfect for refills of Starbucks tall drinks.

STOJO Collapsible Travel Cup with Straw

Stojo's collapsible coffee cup makes it possible to travel light while avoiding single-use plastics. The brand impressed our pros with its other collapsible offerings — the Collapsible Bowl won a 2021 Kitchen Gear Award . Similarly, this travel cup is well designed: The cup includes a heat sleeve that provides a structured grip for the squishy silicone cup, and the 16-ounce size includes a straw (which is great for iced coffee or if you prefer to bring your own cup to fountain machines). The collapsed cup is just two inches in size. It's both microwave and dishwasher safe, with 8-ounce , 12-ounce and 24-ounce sizes.

MiiR Flip Traveler

With a 4.8-rating on Amazon, this stainless steel thermos comes in a slim design and an easy-to-open lid. Though we have not tested this pick in the Lab, we like its focus on giving back: T he bottom of each travel mug is printed with a "Give Code" that you can enter at Mirr's website for details on the brand's corporate giving , which is funded through every purchase. The Flip Traveler is available in several colors and 12-ounce and 16-ounce sizes .

JOCO Glass Reusable Coffee Cup

This glass bodied Joco mug has a colorful silicone lid and a matching thermal sleeve. It's microwave (and dishwasher!) safe, which makes it a great option if you like to reheat your coffee throughout the day. Since the glass is clear, it's easy to see how much coffee you have left — and hit your preferred shade when you add your creamer. Take note that the lid does not seal shut, so while it might be handy for car commuting, this isn't one that's great for tossing in your bag.

Zoku Instant Iced Coffee Maker

For iced coffee fiends, this mug is for you. Get your cuppa in flash: Simply store the inner core of the mug in the freezer, then slip the frozen cup into the protective plastic sleeve and pour in hot coffee. Our tester found that the travel mug will chill your coffee rapidly without watering it down with ice cubes. (The brand actually uses the same concept for its ice cream maker .) Slide in the lid with the provided straw, and you're ready for undiluted iced coffee — though you can add ice if you prefer. One caveat is that the freezable core holds only 11 ounces, which some might find too small.

How we test travel coffee mugs

When the experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab test travel coffee mugs, they use thermocouples to track the temperature of the liquid inside the mug over time. Many of the mugs on this list were tested at home over months (even over commutes) to assess their durability, ease of use and temperature retention.

Our pros also evaluate the mugs for stability, cleanability and comfort of both holding and drinking. They test whether the mug is easy to open and close, and they drop each mug to assess its durability. To test for leaking, our pros roll the mug around on its side as well as turn it upside down and shake it vigorously.

How to find the best travel coffee mug for you

✔️ Material : Many travel coffee mugs are stainless steel, though our list also includes porcelain, glass and silicone options. Double-walled construction is common with stainless steel mugs, and that can help keep your beverage hot or cold longer. Other materials may not be insulated. If you opt for a glass mug, consider borosilicate glass, which is tempered to prevent shattering with hot liquids and can be more durable if dropped. Porcelain mugs are generally easy to clean, and because the material is nonporous, the mug is unlikely to develop odd flavors. Silicone is a great lightweight option, but it can get warm if it does not have a heat sleeve.

✔️ Lid : Some lids are more spill-proof than others. Our Lab experts particularly love the locking feature on the Contigo Luxe Autoseal Vacuum-Insulated Travel Coffee Mug , which adds a level of safety if you plan to toss your mug in your bag. Lids that screw on are also often leak-resistant. Those who prefer a more traditional-style mug with a handle may find that slider lids are common; evaluate those for leaking, as some are prone to dribbles (or worse). Note that spill-proof lids often require more care to clean.

✔️ Washability : Check to see if the mug is dishwasher-safe. If it needs to be washed by hand, make sure you can thoroughly clean it with a sponge or bottle brush .

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Sarah Wharton is the Senior Editor and Analyst for the Good Housekeeping Institute. She tested several of the newest additions to this list as well as led the recent test of heated mugs. She's written about all kinds of kitchen gear as well as coffee advice like how to make a cappuccino and how to make an iced latte .

Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab Director Nicole Papantoniou oversees all testing of kitchen gear, including products like coffee grinders , coffee makers , espresso machines and Nespresso machines . She has tested almost all of these travel mugs and is constantly rotating through an assortment in her daily travel mug use. She is also the lead judge in the Good Housekeeping Institute's forthcoming Coffee Awards .

Sarah (she/her) is a deputy editor in the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she tests products and covers the best picks across kitchen, tech, health and food. She has been cooking professionally since 2017 and has tested kitchen appliances and gear for Family Circle as well as developed recipes and food content for Simply Recipes, Martha Stewart Omnimedia, Oxo and Food52. She holds a certificate in professional culinary arts from the International Culinary Center (now the Institute of Culinary Education).

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Tea to Go: 10 Best Ways to Travel with Tea

Published: Jul 28, 2021 · Modified: Feb 1, 2023 by Mary Ann Rollano · 3 Comments All recommendations are independently reviewed. I recommend useful products and some links are affiliates, earning a commission that supports this free publication.

Tea to go. Enjoy great tea anywhere, whether you're an overnighter, away for the week, at work for the day, or on a picnic. Here are some of the best ways to travel with tea.

Do you dread not having your favorite loose-leaf tea when you're away from home? There's nothing more comforting than a cup of tea, especially when it's your favorite.

Tea drinkers who want to take their tea with them can easily do so with a few insights and the right gear. You can take your tea to the park with friends or use a portable tea infuser for taking a cold-brewed oolong on a hike or bike ride.

I will show you some of the best ways to travel with tea by taking your teaware and tea to go. There are many creative ways to take your favorite tea with you!

Here's what you'll need for tea in the park, at the beach, on a hike, or any place you may picnic.

• A thermos of hot water
• A sturdy teapot or gaiwan
• A padded carrier to prevent breakage
• Select a nice quiet spot and enjoy

If you need some travel teaware items, check these out:

Best Tea Infuser Mugs

I've used this tea infuser mug I bought from Tea Forte for years. It has a stainless steel infusing basket that sits inside and a lid that keeps the tea warm. The inverted top can then set the basket on to catch any drippings after the tea is finished steeping.

You can bring your favorite tea leaves to work and keep them stored in an airtight tin and use the hot water from the office coffee machine for steeping.

Another tea infuser travel mug I love is this steeping mug and infuser from The Tea Spot simply because of the beautiful design and generous size. It even has a steeping guide printed on the back. The mug is double-walled ceramic allowing for excellent insulation. I bought this tea travel mug set for my daughter, who takes it everywhere!

Best Electric Tea Kettle

The other option is to bring an electric kettle if you're going to be in one place for a while, such as an office. I like the Bonavita  or the Cuisinart model because they have variable temperatures and elegant designs. Bonavita does make less expensive models that you wouldn't mind leaving at work.

Best Travel Tea Tumbler

A quality traveler tea infuser tumbler is a must-have when you're taking tea to go. Most are well-insulated, making them perfect for hot or iced tea.

What to look for in a good tea infuser tumbler:

• Double-walled stainless steel to keep hot or cold for hours.
• A good seal that does not leak.
• A screw-on lid to survive accidental dropping or tossing in backpacks.
• A large stainless steel removable infuser.
• Easy to take apart and clean.

My daughter bought me a travel tea tumbler from Teavana, which has a built-in stainless steel infuser…it is the best thing ever. I bring this whenever I travel. I can even store tea inside the tumbler in a sealed bag while it's not being used. I highly recommend investing in a quality tea tumbler if you don't have one already. This tea thermos keeps my tea piping hot for hours.

The Tea Spot Mountain Tea Tumbler

Now that Teavana is no longer, I looked for a replacement tea tumbler to recommend to my readers. As you know, I love The Tea Spot , and I came across their Mountain Tea Tumbler from their Steepware collection, which I love. It checks off all of my must-haves for a great tea tumbler.

This tumbler won the 2018 World Tea Award for the best tea brewing device - (non-electric).

The stainless steel basket infuser is larger than the Teavana one, so it's perfect for infusing larger whole-leaf teas. Another plus to the infusing basket is that it's large enough to add fruit pieces to flavor your tea or simply flavor water for a cold refreshing drink.

I much prefer the stainless steel-lined tumblers and the stainless steel infuser baskets. They're more durable and easier to keep clean. I'm not a fan of the plastic infuser baskets. They're harder to clean and stain too easily.

Food-grade stainless steel, glass, and porcelain are my first choices for any food or beverage because they are chemically inert. There's no need to worry about harmful chemicals leaching into your drink.

Best Glass Tea Tumbler

The urban glass tumbler from The Tea Spot is another of my favorites. I tend to use this for my cold-brew tea. I like the glass so I can see the cold tea infusions. The generous-sized stainless steel basket effortlessly infuses my favorite oolongs.

You can also use it for steeping hot tea since it's constructed of borosilicate glass. The stainless steel lids come off at both ends for easy cleaning. The cork sleeve and strap make this tumbler easy to hold and carry. The design is stylish and fits my car cup holders or bike beverage holders.

Best Travel Tea Set for Gong Fu Brewing

Taking a teapot, cups, and leaves can be a hassle when you're on the go, especially if you like to brew your tea gong fu style.

Generally, gong fu brewing uses more tea leaves than water, with considerably short brewing times. The process is repeated to extract the varying flavors released from the same tea leaves.

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This is a style of brewing that uses a small teapot of some sort. It could be a Gaiwan (guy wan), Yixing (ee shing) teapot, or small porcelain teapot.

A Gaiwan is usually made from porcelain, while a Yixing is unglazed and made from red or purple clay. This is purposeful. The clay absorbs the tea flavor over time and continues adding to the brewed tea's complexity. This is why dedicating Yixing to one type of tea is recommended.

OMyTea sells this delightful portable porcelain gong fu style tea brewing set all wrapped together in a convenient travel pouch. I highly recommend this tea set if you must have your tea gong fu style while traveling. How cute is this set??

Best Tea Filter Bags

I don't mind the hassle of bringing my tea, but I want to keep things simple. Bringing bagged tea is the simplest solution; if you choose that route, you have a few options.

• Buy a good quality bagged tea. I recommend several online retailers that carry quality bagged tea.
• Buying quality loose-leaf tea packed in sachets and placing them in a travel tin is the easiest way to make tea on the road.
• Usually, I will bring a good quality full-leaf tea in a pyramid bag from Adagio or The Tea Spot and brew my tea with whatever hot water is available from the hotel or café.
• You can also make your own bagged tea from your favorite loose-leaf tea.

If you want to make your tea sachets, the best ones I've found are made by Bstean tea filter bags. I like these because they are large and easily hold a healthy teaspoon of loose-leaf tea with room for the leaves to expand.

They come in two sizes and are made of unbleached natural paper, so there's no funny taste in your tea. The drawstring design is better than the fold-over flap style. I recommend buying the larger size for loose-leaf teas.

Best Travel Tea Sets

Zens Lifestyle makes clean, straightforward design teaware. Many of their products have won design awards. Their portable teaware is excellent to use on short trips. They have two different sizes. The smaller one is for individuals, and the larger set is for two people.

The Mobile Moon Tea Set is designed for traveling with a companion tea drinker. It makes an excellent little carrier for picnics. The teapot is made of borosilicate glass with two double-walled glass cups and a traveling case.

Zens's other product is a portable borosilicate glass travel tea set and tea infuser all in one. It comes with a 7.7-ounce teapot, a stainless steel infuser, and a double-walled cup packaged in a trendy little tote bag.

Zens Lifestyle makes beautiful products if you're looking for a stylish product for tea on the go. It's so easy to use the Zens Lifestyle portable travel tea set. The travel set allows you to infuse your tea in the upper chamber and, with a button, release the brewed tea through a stainless steel screen into the lower chamber glass cup.

Best Hot Water Thermos

Don't forget the hot water! THERMOS makes a large-capacity tumbler stainless steel vacuum insulated to keep liquids hot for 24 hours. The stainless steel exterior remains cool to the touch with hot drinks. The king-size holds 68 ounces - enough to keep you brewing tea all day!

Best Practices When Traveling with Loose Leaf Tea

• Only pack easygoing and simple-to-steep teas, like black teas or robust oolongs that can take boiling water.
• Choose pre-packaged or pre-fill your sachets with premium loose tea.
• Pack teas that use boiling point water since the hottest water available in hotels and cafés are boiling point temperature.
• Think twice before bringing teas requiring lower temperatures or pack a thermometer.
• Or leave the more delicate teas at home.
• Learn to live with premade teas on the go. (I know, know).

Can You Bring Tea on a Plane?

• In general, yes, don't worry.
• I've never had any problems with tea sachets in bags placed in my carry-on.
• You shouldn't have problems with dried food products as long as they are in sealed packaging.
• Customs officials don't care unless the declared goods' stated value is exceptionally high or it's an agricultural product. Dried and processed tea is an agricultural product. However, it's not a live agricultural product.
• To be safe, I would perhaps store the tea in a tea canister or bag instead of loosely in a ziplock sandwich bag, making it look like something else entirely. Until you smell it, of course!
• International travelers are permitted to bring without restriction any quantity of products composed solely of   tea leaves ( Camellia sinensis:  includes black tea, green tea, oolong, dark tea, white tea, and yellow tea). As with all agricultural products, you must declare the product at entry. Source

Forgo Tea to Go

Maybe you couldn't be bothered and have decided to just take your chances and not travel with tea. Truthfully, if you're traveling to a tea-drinking country, chances are you may find some excellent teas to try. Explore and drink whatever tea is available where you're going.

I have a friend who travels from England to the United States and always brings her tea. It's in the form of tea bags, which most Brits drink. But it is still so much better than the majority of black-bagged grocery store tea available here in the states.

On the flip side, when we traveled to Italy, I knew the chances of getting good tea were pretty slim. I was very excited when we came upon a specialty tea café in the Piazza Navona in Rome, but unfortunately, it was closed for renovations. As was the Trevi Fountain, an omen telling me I must return.

Instead, I discovered some excellent espresso, cappuccino, and red wine. My point is that a short time without your favorite tea won't hurt and may open a world of new beverage discoveries.

How do you take your tea to go?

What teaware do you find easiest to use on the go? Share your best tips for traveling with tea in the comments below.

Tea for Beginners Start Here >>

More Learning About Tea

About Mary Ann Rollano

Mary Ann is a nurse turned award-winning tea specialist creating recipes and writing stories where tea, wellness, and nature meet. Newsletter

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Rita Stewart

February 26, 2019 at 7:44 am

I was gifted with a lovely travel tea set from my sister a few years ago. One of the most thoughtful gifts I’ve ever received, particularly as a lover of tea! https://ilegacybuilder.com/thoughtful-gifts-tea-for-me/

Mary Ann Rollano

March 03, 2019 at 1:29 pm

The travel tea sets do make perfect gifts! Thanks, Rita.

Best travel coffee mugs in 2024 — tested and rated

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

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

Whether you want to ensure your coffee stays warm throughout the morning, or your iced tea remains cool in warm conditions, you'll need one of the best travel mugs. 

And while it might seem simple enough, the task of choosing out of tons available, can be tricky. You'll need to find the right travel coffee mug to suit your needs and lifestyle. Consider what material you'd prefer? Durable materials range from steel, aluminum and plastic, to even ceramic. Other things to think about include how heavy it is to carry, heat retention, and overall style. 

Finally, how much are you willing to spend? The best coffee travel mugs range from $15 to $35, though there are more advanced types with their own battery that cost $185.

To help you decide, we’ve found a great selection of the best travel mugs to suit any lifestyle and budget right now.

1. MiiR Flip Traveler

Capacity: 16 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 2.75 x 7.25 inches | Weight: 10.2 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 9

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. 

2. Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

Best budget and best durable

Capacity: 16 fluid ounces | Dimensions: ‎2.9 x 8.9 inches | Weight: 8 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 18

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.

3. Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Capacity: 20 fluid ounces | Dimensions: ‎2.9 x 9.3 inches | Weight: 13.2 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 14

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. 

4. THERMOS Stainless King Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

Capacity: 16 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 3.3 x 7.6 inches | Weight: 15.7 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 8

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

Capacity: 20 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 3.5 x 7 inches | Weight: 12.8 ounches | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 34

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. 

6. Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug

Capacity: 12 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 3 x 8 inches | Weight: 38.4 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: No | Colors available: 2

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

Capacity: 16 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 2.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 15.2 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 5

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. 

8. bioGo 16 oz Reusable Coffee Cups

Capacity: 16 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 3.6 x 7 inches | Weight: 6.4 ounces | Material: Rice husk | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 8

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.   

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

Capacity: 16 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 3.56 x 7.75 inches | Weight: 6.9 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: No | Colors available: 13

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. 

10. Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

Capacity: 18 fluid ounces | Dimensions: 4.4 x 6.9 inches | Weight: 5.3 ounces | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 9

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. 

11. Ello Jane Ceramic Travel Mug

Capacity: 18 fluid ounces | Dimensions: ‎3.5 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 24.7 ounces | Material: Ceramic | Dishwasher safe: Yes | Colors available: 5

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.

How we test

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. 

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.

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.

How to choose the best travel mug

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. 

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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 9 Best Travel Coffee Mugs That Will Keep Your Coffee Safe and Perfectly Hot When You’re on the Move

For taking your caffeine on the go, a travel coffee mug is a better alternative to paper or Styrofoam cups—not only will it reduce your environmental impact, it can also prevent your coffee from losing its heat (or chill) while safeguarding against leaks and spills while you’re on the move.

Many insulated tumblers or mugs made from durable stainless steel will ensure that your coffee are as perfectly hot or cold as your first sip, even hours after it has been first poured—and to protect the contents of your mug (and your bag), consider one that is leakproof, or at the least spill-proof. Beyond that, you’ll also want to consider a coffee mug in a style and size that suits your preferences. Fortunately, there are many travel-friendly mugs to choose from, but to help you whittle down your choices, you’ll find nine of the best options below, including picks we use ourselves.

• 01 what to look for
• 02 best travel coffee mugs

Best travel coffee mugs, at a glance

• Best leakproof: Zojirushi, Stainless Mug SM-KHE36/48 , $28
• Best value: Oxo, Good Grips Travel Coffee Mug , $30
• Best versatile: Fellow, Carter 3-in-1 Sip System , $49
• Best handled: Hydro Flask, Mug , $28
• Best small capacity: Yeti, Stackable Cup , $20
• Best splurge: Ember, Travel Mug 2 , $200
• Best customizable: Frank Green, Ceramic Reusable Cup , $36
• Best with a straw: Brümate, Era ,$40
• Best for coffee and tea drinkers: Firebelly, Stop-Infusion Travel Mug , $40

What to look for in a travel coffee mug

Temperature retention.

When shopping for a travel coffee mug, look for options with double- or triple-wall vacuum insulation. Vacuum insulation helps keep drinks hot or cold for extended periods , making it ideal for those who want to savor their cup, or maintain its temperature while traveling to prevent hot coffee from going cold—or iced coffee from becoming tepid—before drinking it.

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Stainless steel construction

As you shop, you’ll also want to consider the material—and when it comes to travel coffee mugs, stainless steel is a popular option. Many people love stainless steel because, unlike glass or ceramic, it’s sturdy and can withstand a lot of abuse, and it holds temperature better than plastic and silicone.

Travel coffee mugs can have a variety of openings, including flip-cap lids, slider lids, twist-off lids, and lids with straws—and for the most part, selecting your ideal option will come down to your preference. If, for example, you want to prevent coffee from splashing out if knocked over, you might want to opt for a travel mug with a twist-off lid. If you want to drink from your mug on the move, you may prefer an option with a lid that you can open and close with one hand, like a flip-top lid, a slider lid, or a lid with straw. Many brands also sell lids separately, so you can opt to have a variety of options at your disposal.

Size and style

Travel coffee mugs also come in a wide range of sizes and styles. Their capacities range from eight ounces to well over 30 ounces, and many feature helpful designs, such as handles. If you plan to use your mug in the car, just be sure it fits in your vehicle’s cup holder. The manufacturer will usually indicate whether a mug is designed to fit in a cup holder, and customer reviews can offer additional insights as well.

Leakproof versus spill-proof

Finally, consider whether you want a leakproof or spill-proof travel coffee mug. A leakproof mug prevents any amount of liquid from spilling out. Spill-proof mugs only safeguard against any major splashes, but if knocked on its side or upside down, some liquid is likely to leak out.

Shop the best travel coffee mugs

Capacity: 12 ounces (also available in 16 ounces) | Available colors: 8

With the Zojirushi Stainless Mug, you won’t have to worry about spills—it’s as “leakproof” as they come. It has a leakproof lid with a locking mechanism, which keeps the lid from accidentally opening. As secure as it is, it’s easy to drink from—the lid pops open with a push, and its small opening keeps your brew from splashing out of the mug and on your face. The mug also helps drinks retain their temperature for up to six hours, thanks to its double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel construction, and more conveniently, it fits into most cup holders.

• Leakproof, push-button, flip-top lid
• Locking mechanism prevents lid from opening accidentally
• Keeps coffee hot (or cold) for up to six hours
• Fits most car cup holders
• Hand wash only

Capacity: 16 ounces (also available in 20 ounces) | Available colors: 5

If you want a budget-friendly travel mug, this option from Oxo offers many of the same qualities as its pricier counterparts at less cost. Made from double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel, it promises to keep drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold for up to 24 hours—something Well+Good contributor Lesley Chen can attest. “Coffee stays piping hot for as long as you want it to,” Chen previously wrote. What’s more, it has a leakproof, twist-off lid, and its slender profile makes it cup holder compatible. It’s also one of the easiest picks on the list to clean, and you can place the entire mug in the dishwasher.

Read more about the Oxo Good Grips Travel Coffee Mug here.

• Keeps coffee hot for up to 12 hours or cold for up to 24 hours
• Leakproof lid prevents accidental spills
• Dishwasher safe
• Only 16 and 20-ounce capacity

Originally $57, now $49

Capacity: 16 ounces | Available colors: 3

What I love most about the Fellow Carter 3-in-1 Sip System is its versatility. The kit includes three interchangeable lids. It comes with a twist lid and a slider lid (both leakproof), along with a straw lid. I particularly like the slider lid, which is easy to open and close with one hand, and true to its promise, it doesn’t leak, even when full and bouncing around in my backpack. It’s made from double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel for optimal temperature retention to keep coffee hot for up to 12 hours and cold for up to 24, while the ceramic-coated interior keeps your coffee’s flavor “free of odors, oil, and ‘old penny’ tasting notes,” per Fellow. I can attest that it does an excellent job retaining heat—my morning brew was still hot after sitting in the mug for over six hours. One tradeoff is that it only comes in one size and only three colors, but this is a small price for its versatility.

• Comes with three interchangeable lids
• Fits in most car cup holders
• Only 16-ounce capacity

Capacity: 12 ounces (also available in 6 and 24 ounces) | Available colors: 8

If you want something that has the look and feel of your at-home coffee mug, consider the Hydro Flask Mug. It closely resembles an everyday mug—handle and all—but is made from double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel for heat retention and durability. It also comes replete with a lid to keep its contents safe while on the move. The press-in lid fits snugly into the mug, while the sliding lever seamlessly glides open and closed. The opening is small enough to prevent splash-back, but not so small that I have to suck instead of sip the coffee from the mug, making fora pleasant drinking experience overall. Its lid is not leakproof—however, this offset by a wide base that is tougher to tip, making it more likely to remain in an upright position in the event you accidentally bump it, and it doesn’t hurt that the rounded handle also offers a comfortable grip on the mug. Unlike regular ceramic mugs, it holds heat plenty well, too—my coffee was perfectly hot, even hours after it had been poured.

• Comfortable handle
• Spill-proof lid
• Multiple sizes and many colors
• Not leakproof
• Body is hand wash only

Capacity: 8 ounces (also available in 16, 20, and 30 ounces) | Available colors: 7, plus 2 limited-edition colors

If you travel light, opt for Yeti’s Rambler Stackable Cup. At eight ounces, the double-walled, vacuum-insulated stainless steel cup is one of the smallest options on the list. Well+Good food writer Maki Yazawa loves it for a quick caffeine hit. “After searching far and wide for the ultimate travel coffee cup, I’ve landed on my favorite, YETI’s Rambler 8-Ounce Stackable Cup,” she says. “The eight-ounce size fits in just about any car cup holder, and as per YETI’s description, it’s truly built for the at-home (or far from home) barista in mind. It fits underneath most espresso machines, is spill-proof (ideal for bumpy car rides), and, most importantly, stays hot (or cold) until the very last drop. Of course, if you need a little extra juice to get you going in the morning, the Rambler comes in larger sizes, and in a variety of colors to best suit your personality. My cup of tea (pun intended) at the moment is their limited-edition King Crab Orange and Agave Teal colorways. Chef’s kiss.”

Capacity: 12 ounces | Available colors: 2

The Ember Travel Mug 2 is expensive, but its unique design makes it wonderful to use. The Travel Mug 2 has a built-in heat source to regulate the temperature of your brew, much like Ember’s mug warmer . It pairs with your smartphone via Bluetooth and uses a companion app, where you can control the temperature of your drink, and once you’ve made your selection, it will keep your coffee at your chosen temperature for up to three hours. When your phone isn’t within reach, you can also toggle between preset temperatures using the buttons on the mug itself. What’s more, the mug has an integrated screen to display the temperature and the amount of battery charge remaining, which greatly adds to its convenience factor. The push-button lid is leakproof and features a 360-degree sipping port that lets you drink from any and all sides of the mug, as well as a tapered base to fit snugly into standard car cup holders—all factors that make it ideal for travel. Its long-lasting battery life of up to three hours is a bonus, too. With that said, there’s no denying that $200 is a lot to spend on a mug, but it could be money well spent if you’re a coffee lover who wants a smart gadget.

• Controls coffee temperature using an app
• Keeps coffee at ideal temperature for up to three hours
• Leakproof lid

Capacity: 12 ounces (also available in 8, 10, and 16 ounces) | Available colors: 23

If you want a travel mug that you can customize to your precise liking, consider the Frank Green Ceramic Reusable Cup. In addition to offering four sizes, the Ceramic Reusable Cup lets you customize each part of the mug, including the base, the lid, and the button of the lid, in the color of your choice. It also comes with a push-button lid that is spill-proof, but you can swap it out for a straw lid (sold separately). Frank Green boasts that its stainless steel mugs are triple-walled to provide optimal temperature retention and have a ceramic-coated lining that is meant to preserve the true flavor of your brew, making this pick as fun as it is functional.

• Multiple sizes with option to customize the color of each part of the mug
• Triple-wall vacuum insulation to keep coffee hot or cold for hours

Capacity: 30 ounces (also available in 40 ounces) | Available colors: 11

If you like your coffee iced, the Brümate Era will fit the bill. It features a lid with an integrated straw and locking mechanism to make it fully leakproof, so whether you tip the mug on its side or upside down, it won’t spill a drop so long as it’s locked. The Era, made of durable stainless steel with double-walled vacuum insulation, is also capable of keeping drinks cold for up to 24 hours, and it can hold up to 30 ounces—or more, if you opt for the larger 40-ounce mug. Despite its large size, this mug still fits in most cup holders, and it’s easy to schlep around, thanks to its hefty handle—and unlike many of the other picks, it’s dishwasher safe.

• Leakproof straw lid
• Keeps coffee cold for over 24 hours
• Only 30- and 40-ounce capacity

Capacity: 16 ounces | Available colors: 6

Whether you want to drink coffee or tea, the Firebelly Stop-Infusion Travel Mug has you covered. It comes with an infuser to brew your own loose leaf teas, but you have the option to use it without the infuser as a standard coffee mug. What’s more, it has a leakproof lid, and thanks to its double-wall stainless steel interior, it can keep drinks hot or cold for hours so you can enjoy your brew for longer. Well+Good contributor Gina Vaynshetyn can attest to this: “I’ve made myself tea in the mug in the morning, and have absentmindedly sipped on it for hours—from home at my desk and in the car during a day trip,” she previously wrote. “It’s truly the only way I’ve discovered to conveniently brew tea that stays hot no matter where you take it.”

Read the full review of the Firebelly Stop-Infusion Travel Mug here.

• Features a removable tea infuser
• Keeps drinks hot or cold for up to six hours

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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The 27 best clubs and nightclubs in Moscow

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1 Propaganda

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It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Moscow for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Moscow in January
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• Weather in Moscow in March
• Weather in Moscow in April
• Weather in Moscow in May
• Weather in Moscow in June
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All road trips from Moscow

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• Moscow to Kyiv drive
• Moscow to Tula drive
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Explore nearby places

• Likino-Dulevo
• Ivanteyevka
• Orekhovo-Zuevo
• Semyonovskoye
• Ivanovskoye
• Rumyantsevo
• Dzerzhinsky
• Sovkhoz Imeni Lenina
• Dolgoprudny

All related maps of Moscow

• Map of Moscow
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• Map of Nikolskoye
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• Map of Nagornoye
• Map of Mosrentgen
• Map of Bratsevo
• Map of Rumyantsevo
• Map of Mytishchi
• Map of Putilkovo
• Map of Razvilka
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Moscow throughout the year

• Moscow in January
• Moscow in February
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• Moscow in April
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• Moscow in October
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Moscow?

Get inspired for your trip to Moscow with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Moscow Itinerary
• 2-Day Moscow Itinerary
• 3-Day Moscow Itinerary
• 4-Day Moscow Itinerary
• 5-Day Moscow Itinerary

Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Khimki

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Mytishchi
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Khimki

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