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The Best Travel Mug

By Trey French and Anna Perling

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

After a decade of testing travel mugs, we still recommend the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug for most people. It keeps drinks hot for hours, and its locking lid stays securely closed, even when you toss the mug into a bag. We also have another option, which fits better in most cup holders, for use while you’re driving.

Everything we recommend

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug

The best travel mug.

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

Buying Options

Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug (16 ounces)

A wider mug for drivers.

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

OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set

For cleaning your mug.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked, 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

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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.

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

By Wilder Davies and Emily Farris

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

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

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Brumate Nav

Yeti Rambler 10-Ounce Tumbler with Magslide Lid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How we tested travel coffee mugs

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

What we looked for

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other travel coffee mugs we tested

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

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

Yeti Rambler Travel Mug with Stronghold Lid

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

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

Yeti Rambler 24-Ounce Mug

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

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

Yeti Rambler with Hotshot Cap

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

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

Brumate Toddy

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

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

Klean Kanteen Wide Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

Klean Kanteen

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

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

OXO Good Grips Travel Coffee Mug With Leakproof SimplyClean Lid

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

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

Hydro Flask Mug

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

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

Thermos Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Tumbler

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

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

Fellow Carter Slide Travel Coffee Mug

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

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

Kinto Day Off Stainless Steel Tumbler

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

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

MiiR Insulated Travel Tumbler

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

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

Sip by Swell Stainless Steel Travel Mug

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

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

Stanley Classic One Hand Vacuum Mug

Ace Hardware

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

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

Ello Campy Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

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

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

Ello Cole Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

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

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

Contigo Stainless Steel Vacuum-Insulated Travel Mug

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

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

Contigo Autoseal Transit Stainless Steel Travel Mug

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

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

Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup With Straw

The takeaway

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

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• Best overall
• Best with a carry loop
• Best flip-top travel mug
• Best spill-proof
• Best large-capacity

What to look for

• Temperature retention

How we tested

The best travel mugs, tested and reviewed.

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We can't decide what's worse for a morning commute: coffee going cold or going all over your clothes. Any mug with a lid that you can carry from place to place is technically a travel mug, but the best travel mugs keep your iced or hot beverage to temperature, won't leak all over your bag, and are easy to keep clean.

We put a dozen of the best travel mugs to the test, evaluating each for how well it retained temperature, how easy it was to clean, and most importantly, how nice it was to drink from. After more than eight months of testing, the Zojirushi SM-SE Travel Mug stood out as the clear winner, keeping drinks to temperature for hours longer than any other mugs we tested. Our other favorites include a large capacity Yeti Rambler that holds 26 ounces of coffee, tea, or anything else you need to travel with in bulk.

Our top picks for travel mugs

Best overall: Zojirushi SM-SE Travel Mug - See at Amazon The Zojirushi SM-SE Travel Mug keeps both hot and cold drinks at enjoyable temperatures for hours longer than the competition, and its lockable lid ensures it's truly leak-proof.

Best with a carry loop: Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid - See at REI The Hydro Flask Coffee is comfortable to drink from and easy to tote around on your next adventure thanks to its strong rubber carry loop.

Best flip-top: Miir Travel Tumbler - See at Amazon Pair an easy-clean lid with 5 hours of hot and cold temperature retention and you get the solid performance of the Miir Travel Mug.

Best spill-proof: Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug - See at Amazon The Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug opens with the press of a button and automatically seals itself shut so you won't have to worry about whether you remembered to close it.

Best large-capacity:  Yeti Rambler Bottle with HotShot Cap - See at Amazon If a single cup of coffee simply won't cut it, the Yeti Rambler 26-oz. Bottle has more than enough room to keep you fueled up, and the HotShot Cap makes it go down easy.

Best overall: Zojirushi SM-SE Travel Mug

Pros: Best temperature retention by far, lid is easy to clean, leak-proof locking lid, one-handed operation, five-year warranty on the vacuum insulation

Cons: Not dishwasher safe, won't fit large ice cubes, will rattle around in cupholders

It's rare that we at Insider Reviews come across a product that is so head and shoulders above the competition that it's without a doubt the best overall pick; there's almost always a shortcoming or a caveat. But the Zojirushi SM-SE Travel Mug is, hands down, the best travel mug you can buy, and we've got the data to back it up.

According to our test, the Zojirushi kept coffee hot for five hours longer than the next-best mug and kept ice frozen for an hour and a half longer than second place. Les Shu, Insider Reviews senior guides editor who helped me with secondary testing, found that it kept liquids hotter far longer if you don't open the lid as often.

The lid flips open to reveal a sizeable drinking spout that regulates liquid well, whether you're pouring it into a cup or your mouth. When closed, a switch at the base of the lid locks it shut so you can confidently toss it in your bag.

The lid disassembles into two plastic pieces and two rubber gaskets, so you can get into all the nooks and crannies as you clean it. It's a skinny mug too, so you'll want to invest in a good bottle brush. Because it's so skinny, you may have trouble fitting large ice cubes into it. It may also rattle around in your car's cupholder. But we're being nitpicky here.

If you want the best travel mug to keep your coffee hot the longest and provide the best drinking experience, this is your pick. Zojirushi also offers a five-year warranty on the vacuum insulation, so if your mug loses its ability to retain temperature, Zojirushi will replace it.

Best with a carry loop: Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Pros: Rubber carry loop, comfortable to drink from, lid disassembles easily, dishwasher safe, lifetime warranty

Cons: Retained coffee smell, rubber loop may not be durable enough for attaching to packs

As much as I love the Zojirushi mug, it can get annoying to carry it around if you're roaming around bag-free or just don't have anywhere to stow it. The Hydro Flask Coffee helps mitigate this problem with the addition of a sturdy rubber carry loop. While walking around with it, I primarily held onto the loop with one or two fingers.

The Hydro Flask also provided one of the nicest drinking experiences of all the mugs we tested. The lid mechanism is simple, the liquid flows well, and there's no large lid mechanism to get in the way while you're drinking. When closed, the lid reveals a red square so you can quickly see that your mug is sealed. The lid disassembles into three plastic pieces and one rubber gasket.

We did find that the stainless steel retained some coffee smell after repeated use, so you may want to dedicate this mug to one type of beverage.

While the lid system does a good job of keeping it sealed, it does require two hands to open. If you're jostled while the lid is open, you might encounter a small spill. This was a rare occurrence, but drivers and commuters may want to keep this in mind.

This was a tough call in our best travel mug with a carry loop  The Klean Kanteen Insulated TKWide actually beat out the Hydro Flask in both temperature tests, albeit by small margins, and we like the metal carry loop for durability. But the Klean Kanteen lid is difficult to disassemble for proper cleaning, and the metal carry loop is uncomfortable if you're carrying it by hand. The Hydro Flask just offered a nicer drinking experience. 

Best flip-top: Miir Travel Tumbler

Pros: Simple lid is easy to clean, stays leak-proof even after repeated use

Cons: Too large for some cupholders, handwash only, won't keep ice frozen for very long

We disqualified more than one travel mug simply due to their exceedingly complicated lid mechanisms. A lid that's too hard to disassemble and clean will discourage you from washing it properly which can lead to mold growth. Flip-top lids are often one piece and the most simple, so mold has nowhere to hide.

The best flip-top travel mug we tried was the Miir Travel Tumbler. (We did love the S'well Commuter, but it's no longer available for purchase.) It was competitive in both our hot and cold temperature retention tests, despite the thinner construction that makes it easier to fit in cupholders. 

The flip-top was is slightly stiff and lies almost flush with the lid, so it's not the easiest to open. However, it preserves the benefit of the flip-top by being a breeze to clean.

Best spill-proof: Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

Pros: Automatically seals when not in use, dishwasher-safe, lifetime warranty

Cons:  Hand may get in the way while drinking, middling temperature retention

Even the most leak-proof mug is going to spill if you knock it over while the lid is open. If you know you're prone to spills or simply have too many important papers on your desk at any given time, do yourself a favor and invest in a mug that's totally klutz-proof.

The Stanley Classic Trigger Action Mug automatically seals when not in use, helping to retain temperature as well as ensure all your coffee stays where it's supposed to. To drink, you simply press and hold down the button on the lid which depresses the stopper in the spout and lets liquid flow. Upon releasing the button, the stopper raises back up to seal the spout. 

The Stanley performed admirably in our temperature tests — firmly middle of the pack. The lid mechanism is a bit complicated, with buttons and springs, so you'll want to regularly disassemble it and get into the nooks and crannies with a brush to ensure it doesn't harbor mold, especially around the metal spring. It disassembles into two pieces with a simple twist.

The main disadvantage to this mug is also its main draw — you have to press the button to drink. The button is positioned on the back of the lid, so you may find your own hand gets in the way of drinking, especially if your hand is larger. The button is also why this is one of Les Shu's favorites, who has been using it nonstop since early 2019.

Best large-capacity: Yeti Rambler Bottle with HotShot Cap

Yeti 26-oz. Rambler Bottle

Yeti hotshot cap.

Pros:  Offered in larger sizes than any other mug we tested, retains heat very well, dishwasher safe, very sturdy build

Cons: Retains cold poorly, HotShot lid sold separately, HotShot lid gives no visual indication that it's open, definitely won't fit in cupholders

The Yeti Rambler Bottle comes in smaller 12-oz. and 18-oz. offerings, but the unique 26-oz. model is what caught our eye for best travel mug testing. Most of the travel mugs we recommend come in multiple sizes, but they all max out at 20 ounces. If you're used to guzzling large amounts of your beverage of choice, and you can't be bothered with a refill, you'll want a travel mug to match your habits.

The Rambler Bottle comes with what Yeti calls its Chug Cap — think classic soda bottle top with a large-handled lid that twists all the way off. It's great for water, iced coffee, and other cold drinks, but if hot beverages are your main priority, you'll want to buy the HotShot Cap which is sold separately.

Senior Guides Editor Les Shu and I were split in our feelings on the HotShot. He appreciates the inner wall and the tight lock that keep spills at bay, while I was disappointed that it gave no visual indication that it was open or closed.

If by some chance, 26 ounces isn't enough coffee to get you going in the morning, Yeti also offers a huge 36-oz. Rambler Bottle .

Temperature retention: The most important factor in our tests is the key element of the best travel mug: does it keep your hot drink hot and your iced drink cold? The only way to know for sure if to test the mugs like we did, but you can also look for words like vacuum sealed and double-layer walls.

Lid type: All lids should be relatively spill-proof, but there are different style choices like those with carry-loops, flips tops, or screw tops. If you want to use your travel mug with one hand, choose a flip-top lid or one that opens with a button. Additionally, if you plan on using a carabiner to clip your bottle to a backpack, look for a carry loop.

Size: One consideration is how much coffee or tea you want to transport and how heavy a mug you're willing to carry. Those going through two or three cups of coffee each morning should go for a 16- or 24-ounce travel mug, but keep in mind that it's bound to be hefty. Additionally, car commuters will benefit from slimmer bottles that are more likely to fit in cupholders. 

Our temperature retention test results

In order to test the best travel mugs, we established several criteria we hoped each of our top picks would meet. Our initial testing period lasted one month, but we are still testing long-term durability in case issues arise. 

Temperature retention : To test heat retention, we filled each mug with water heated to 136 degrees Fahrenheit, the optimal temperature for hot beverages according to a study by the University of Texas. We then tested the temperature hourly and noted change. Once the temperature dropped 25 degrees, we deemed the beverage too cold to drink and ended the test. To test cold retention, we filled each mug with 45-degree water straight from the refrigerator. We added three ice cubes and timed how long the ice remained frozen.

Leak test: We filled each travel mug with water and turned it upside down and shook it for a total of 30 seconds. We performed this test once at the beginning of our testing period and again at the end to ensure each mug stayed leak-proof even after repeated use.

Ease of use and cleaning : We wanted to test how easy each mug was to drink from while on the go. We noted how easy each mug was to operate with one hand. We also noted how well the liquid flowed out of each and whether or not they fit in standard car cupholders. We took into account how easy each mug was to clean. Many of these mugs have complex lids that can harbor mold if not properly sanitized. If lids were too complicated, difficult to disassemble or reassemble, or began to show signs of mold even after what we thought was a thorough cleaning, the mug lost major points.

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• Glassware & Drinkware

The Best Travel Mugs for Hot or Cold Sips on the Go

Easier on your wallet and the environment

The Spruce Eats / Derek Rose

Whether you drink coffee, iced tea , or water, a travel mug is a handy accessory that keeps you caffeinated or hydrated on the go. Owning a travel mug can also save money (no more need to stop at a coffee shop) and cut down on paper and plastic waste. Some people have a few different travel mugs for various occasions, like an extra-durable one for hiking and a cupholder-friendly option for driving to work. No matter where you're headed, we have a travel mug for you below, all of which we've tested ourselves and can recommend firsthand.

• How We Tested Travel Mugs

To help you make an informed buying decision, we tested more than a dozen of the most popular travel mugs on the market today. Every travel mug was tested for a minimum of one week, and some of them have been used by our staff members for several years. To review the travel mugs, our writers evaluated key areas, including size, design, insulation, and value, and then provided additional insights about what we liked and disliked about each mug.

We Observed:

• How easy the mugs were to clean: We made notes about how rigorous the cleaning process was for each travel mug. Some mugs were dishwasher-safe or only had a couple of parts to clean; others had multiple parts or lids so small that they were difficult to clean by hand.
• How durable the mugs were: Our testers gauged the durability of each mug by traveling with them and putting them in bags if they were leakproof. Some testers have owned mugs on this list for numerous years and, as a result, gave long-term durability insights.
• If any liquids leaked from the mugs: If a mug was labeled as leakproof, our testers shook it upside down over the sink to see if the claims were accurate.
• Design: Our testers rated each travel mug's design on a one-to-five scale. Factors that led to higher design scores included functionality, durability, and a stylish aesthetic.
• Insulation: After using a thermometer and stopwatch to measure drink temperature, we graded each mug on its degree of insulation.
• Value: Finally, we compared the performance of every travel mug to its retail price. Items that lived up to or outperformed their price received higher value-for-money ratings.

The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas

• What to Look For

Types of Travel Mugs

About our testers, why trust the spruce eats, best overall, contigo west loop vacuum insulated travel mug.

• Effectiveness 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5

Effective autolock and anti-spill lid

Can be locked and unlocked with one hand

Keeps drinks hot/cold for hours

A little wide for smaller hands

Plastic lid seems prone to breakage

If you’re looking for a solid, leak-proof travel mug that will keep your coffee hot for up to seven hours, look no further. The Contigo mug is my number one pick for many reasons, the first of which is the “Autoseal” lid. Unlike other travel mugs that have a sliding lid, which is prone to leaks, the Contigo lid has a push button that opens the vacuum seal when you’re ready to drink and closes again when you release the button. (This means you can also use it with one hand.) I was able to carry it around in a bag all day without any leakage. Just keep in mind that this means the lid isn’t interchangeable with any of your other travel mugs.

In addition to hot drinks like coffee or tea , this vacuum-insulated stainless steel mug will keep drinks cold for up to 18 hours depending on whether you buy the 12- or 20-ounce version. You can also choose between seven different colors, so everyone in the family can keep their mug straight.

One of the few drawbacks is that the mug is fairly difficult to clean. If you’re washing the Contigo by hand, be prepared for a bit of an inconvenience as it comes with very specific washing instructions. The lid is dishwasher-safe, but the bottle itself is hand wash only.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 10, 16, 20, or 24 ounces | Dimensions: 3 x 9 inches (20-ounce model)

The Spruce Eats / Tamara Staples

The Spruce Eats / Suzie Dundas 

Stanley Classic Travel Mug

• Design 4 /5
• Insulation 3 /5

Highly durable

Great for commuters

Lid is hard to clean

Faint plastic smell first few uses

Stanley is a century-old name known for its array of durable mugs, thermoses, and more. In fact, the company patented all-steel vacuum flasks in 1913. That top-grade technology is bottled into the sleek and simple design of the Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug today. You can purchase the item in three sizes—12, 16, and 20 ounces—as well as five different colors.

We tested the 16-ounce model firsthand and confirmed that it lives up to the brand's claims about temperature retention. Hot coffee stayed warm and drinkable for seven hours, cold coffee lasted 10 hours without ice, and ice water remained refreshing for more than 30 hours. With that in mind, temperature retention varies slightly depending on the size of the mug you buy.

We were pleasantly surprised that the trigger-action lid is completely leakproof. No water escaped even after we shook it upside down over the sink. It's rare to find a mug with a lid as convenient as this one that is also safe to throw in a bag or backpack. It's excellent for hiking, and because it fits in cupholders, it's viable for commuters, too.

We've also used this mug frequently over four years and it shows no signs of slowing down. The item is backed by Stanley's lifetime guarantee. The company claims the bottle can withstand everything from a 4,000-foot drop to a windchill of -70 degrees Fahrenheit. The best part? This lifelong companion is affordably priced, making it one of the top value-for-money options on the market.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12, 16, or 20 ounces | Dimensions: 2.9 x 8.9 inches (16-ounce model)

Best for Hot or Cold

Zojirushi stainless steel mug.

• Design 5 /5
• Insulation 5 /5

Easy-to-hold design

Fits in most cupholders

Excellent heat retention

Locking mechanism prevents leaks

Hand wash only, many pieces to clean

While most of the mugs on our list work well for hot or cold beverages, they are generally better at one or the other—but that’s not the case with this mug from Zojirushi. It retains drink temperature for at least six hours, no matter if you take your coffee hot or iced. Our experience with the mug was even better than the company advertises: Coffee was warm enough to drink nearly 12 hours after brewing.

Available in 12 and 16 ounces, the Zojirushi mug also wins points for design and easy drinking. The flip-top cap not only stops the mug from leaking, it also keeps the drinking spout protected and clean. The cap includes a lock to keep it from coming undone in your bag, as well.

Cleaning this model is a bit harder than some of the others (a specially designed bottle-cleaning brush is recommended). Several different pieces need to be cleaned thoroughly to avoid staining and mildew buildup. The plastic sipping piece and rubber gasket on the lid can be popped out easily and cleaned separately, though.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12 or 16 ounces | Dimensions: 2.625 x 2.875 x 9.125 inches (16-ounce model)

Best High-Tech

Ember travel mug 2.

Touchscreen display 

Battery lasts up to three hours

360-degree leak-proof lid

Only 12-ounce capacity

Just like many other travel mugs, the sleek Ember Travel Mug² will keep your drink hot throughout your morning commute, but it stands out by using smart technology and a high-tech design. This second iteration of the Ember Travel Mug is lighter and more streamlined than its predecessor, mainly because instead of a manual dial, it features a touch-sensitive control panel.

The mug is "smart" because you can use the panel to control and set its temperature or link the mug to the Ember app via your smartphone. The app essentially serves as a temperature gauge for the mug, notifying you when the set temperature has been reached. This is a nice feature because it eliminates the possibility of burning your mouth.

The Ember Travel Mug²'s best design feature is the lid: It only needs a push to open, is leak-proof, and lets you sip from any side of the mug. Furthermore, the mug's design is ergonomic. It's wider at the top than the bottom and is coated with a matte finish, making it easy to grip and comfortable to hold. We wish it held more—12 ounces isn't a lot for many coffee drinkers—and we don't love the high price point, but you are getting a high-tech product so the cost makes sense.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12 ounces | Dimensions: 3.14 x 7.9 inches

The Spruce Eats / Russell Kilgore

Best Budget

Copco acadia travel mug.

 Amazon

Safe in both microwave and dishwasher

Colorful grip

Fits in cupholders

Can stack inside each other

Prone to staining

Hole in lid can't be closed

This 16-ounce travel mug works for both hot coffee, iced coffee, and cold brew , and it comes at a budget price. It's designed with a double-wall construction to keep drinks at their temperature longer than a non-insulated cup; however, it’s not made for all-day temperature regulation like some stainless steel mugs. We found hot coffee to be lukewarm just two hours after brewing. The good news is that the mug is microwave-safe, so you can easily reheat drinks should they cool off.

Another advantage of this mug is how easy it is to clean. It's dishwasher-safe, and the lid opening is large enough to clean the inside by hand should you choose to do so. The lid doesn't have a cover, however, so you can’t toss the mug in your bag. Another downside is that the interior is prone to staining. We have owned the mug for nearly four years and it still works like new, but the coffee stains set in after roughly a year.

The cup portion is white, but you can choose from a variety of colored bands, so you always know which one is yours. The bands also serve as coffee collars to protect your hands from scorching temperatures while adding extra grip. There's nothing fancy to this mug, but it's dependable.

Material: BPA-free plastic | Capacity: 16 ounces | Dimensions: 3.66 x 6.78 inches

Best With Straw

Bubba envy insulated tumbler.

• Design 3.5 /5
• Insulation 4.5 /5

No sweating

Lid seals tightly

Fits in car cupholders

Keeps drinks cold or hot

Can't close hole on lid

Hand wash only

Prefer iced coffee ? Then a travel mug that has a straw might suit your palette more. This model fits in most cup holders and can keep your drink cold for up to 12 hours. You can use the removable plastic straw with the Tritan lid or not, depending on your preference. The one design flaw, however, is that there is no way to completely seal the lid since the hole doesn't include a cover or flap.

The cup is made of stainless steel, so it will repel stains and odors, meaning your lemonade won't taste like yesterday's coffee. The mug even has a lifetime guarantee, so you know it will last. If you’re looking for a durable travel mug that’s designed to hold both hot and cold beverages, the 24-ounce Bubba Envy Insulated Stainless Steel Tumbler is a solid option at a price you can afford. While the mug is large and doesn't have a handle, it's surprisingly easy to hold because of indents that circle the cup.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18, 24, or 32 ounces | Dimensions: 3.62 x 3.93 x 10.54 inches (24-ounce model)

The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan

 The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan

Best Handled

Thermos stainless king travel mug.

Comfortable to hold

Doesn’t fit in all car cup holders

Thanks to the vacuum insulation of most travel mugs, a handle is no longer really a necessity to keep your hand dry from condensation or to prevent it from getting burned, but if you prefer to drink from a handled mug, this version from Thermos is the right pick for you.

Available in five different colors, this 16-ounce mug will keep beverages hot for up to five hours or cold for up to nine hours thanks to the double-wall stainless steel construction. The lid has a “DrinkLock” seal, which opens when you press the lever to the left or right. During testing, there were no spills and coffee stayed hot for longer (even on chilly days). The one drawback (if you even consider it one) is that this mug must be washed by hand.

Tea drinkers will also want to consider this mug since it has a built-in tea hook that accommodates most tea infusers and makes it easy to remove them from the mug. It comes with a five-year limited warranty in case there is an issue.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 16 ounces | Dimensions: 3.3 x 4.9 x 7.8 inches

The Spruce Eats / Rebekah Joan

Best Design

S'well traveler mug.

Multiple sizes and many colors

Great temperature retention

Price varies, can be expensive

Lid isn't ideal for commuting

The S’well Stainless Steel Traveler Mug is inarguably one of the best-designed travel mugs on the market today. Thanks to S’well’s high-end, triple-wall technology, you can rest assured that your drinks will maintain their ideal temperature for hours on end. It performed exceedingly well when we tested it. Coffee stayed hot for 12 hours and, after adding refrigerated coffee without ice, it was still cold 30 hours later.

This mug topped others in the design category because it is cupholder-friendly and available in 17 different color options as well as three sizes: 12, 16, and 20 ounces. The Traveler is completely leakproof and can be trusted in your bag or backpack. Just keep in mind that the lid can't be unscrewed with one hand, so you'll need both hands free if sipping on the go. Also, it's not dishwasher-safe, so to clean it, you can either put a drop of dish soap in and rinse with hot water or use a long bottle brush.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 12, 16, or 20 ounces | Dimensions: 3.3 x 9.3 inches

Best for Easy Cleaning

Yeti rambler 20 oz tumbler.

• Size 4.5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Dishwasher safe

Magnetic lid slides easily

Multiple color options

Not leakproof

The Yeti Rambler comes in three sizes: 10, 20, and 30 ounces. Some travel mugs are too small for a hand to fit inside or have multiple parts to clean. That's not the case with the Rambler. We appreciate that we can reach every nook and cranny of the mug with a sponge. The Rambler is also dishwasher safe when you're not in the mood to wash it by hand.

We've used the mug for more than two years and it's still going strong. We take it in the car a lot because it fits in cupholders and can be sipped with one hand. There's a toggle on the lid, which Yeti calls a Magslider, that's effortless to open with your thumb. One of the only downsides is that the lid isn't leakproof, so we don't throw it in our hiking backpack or messenger bag.

Like most Yeti products, the Rambler effectively keeps drinks hot for around 10 hours or cold for close to 20. It's also sold in more than 10 colors from neutrals to vibrant hues, so you can find one that suits your style.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 10, 20, or 30 ounces | Dimensions: 3.5 x 6.6 inches

Best Large Capacity

Bubba classic insulated desk mug.

Budget price

Lightweight despite size

Too big for cupholders

Lid has a hole you can't close

This 52-ounce mug is what you'll want to take to the pool, beach, or camping since it holds enough water for several hours. It’s also great for office workers who don’t want to keep running to the water cooler to refill smaller bottles. Of course, the drawback with a mug of this size is that it won’t fit in your cupholder, so this pick is better for non-drive time.

For those who intend to drink hot beverages out of this mug, it doesn't quite have the heat retention that the brand claims. When filled more than halfway full with hot coffee, it was lukewarm less than three hours later. The mug did perform better when tested with cold drinks, however. With refrigerated coffee poured into the mug without ice (as the amount of ice may vary for customers), the coffee was still cold 12 hours later. Another testing observation to note is that the lid opening seemed a little wide, and it was easy to spill when drinking.

As an added bonus, the Bubba 52-Ounce Desk Mug is incredibly durable and can handle being dropped or tossed around in the trunk of your car. The wide, comfort-grip handle feels very sturdy, too.

Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 34 or 52 ounces | Dimensions: 7 x 10 inches

We highly recommend the Contigo Autoseal West Loop because its sleek, durable, and easy to sip on the go thanks to its button-activated lid. As an alternative, the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug is similar in price and quality, and it performed well in our testing process. You can't go wrong with either one.

Other Options We Tested

• Yeti Rambler Mug : Yeti makes a number of reliable travel mugs—not to mention the brand's beloved coolers—but the Rambler mug has too many shortcomings for us to recommend it, starting with its poor insulative properties. The hot coffee we brewed lost temperature rapidly in the mug and, because it's made with stainless steel, it couldn't be reheated in the microwave. Additionally, the lid is not leakproof, which is a feature that's easy to find in a number of other travel mugs out there.
• Ello Campy Travel Mug : The Ello Campy Mug is a stylish, large-capacity option that many customers may enjoy, especially those into the outdoors. While it doesn't have any major defects, it didn't quite make the cut for this list. We found that the paint can chip easily and that it's tricky to clean. On top of that, it's too large to fit in many car cupholders.

What to Look for in a Travel Mug

It doesn’t matter if you’re drinking coffee , tea, or water—every sip from your travel mug should be smooth and easy. That’s why it’s important to figure out the lid style that best suits you. Some of the top options include flip lids, thumb-sliding lids, push-button lids, twist lids, and straw lids. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. Customers who prioritize durability or preventing spills, for instance, should choose a more secure style, like a twist lid. Others who want to seamlessly drink from their mug while on the move may prefer a lid that can be opened with one hand. Luckily, lid style does not affect price, so every option should be on the table when you start looking for a travel mug. Many brands also sell lids individually so that users can have multiple options at their disposal.

Temperature Retention

All too often we take a sip of coffee and find it’s gone lukewarm. A reliable travel mug can thwart that dreaded, flavorless middle zone and keep your coffee at the ideal temperature for hours, no matter if it’s hot or iced. Vacuum-insulated mugs, which are typically made from stainless steel, offer the best performance when it comes to temperature retention, while plastic and silicone are the least effective materials. When buying, think about the type of coffee you drink most often (hot or iced) as some mugs are better designed for one or the other.

The length of time that a mug keeps drinks hot or cold is often listed in its product details, but keep in mind that this figure is often based on the item being preheated or precooled before use. We also asked Graham Nearn of the Stanley brand what temperature range the company defines as "hot" and "cold." He told us that when Stanley says a drink stays hot for a certain amount of time, the liquid must be between 140 to 203 degrees; for a drink to be considered cold, it has to fall between 39 and 50 degrees.

Travel coffee mugs come in a variety of sizes. The average capacity is around 16 ounces, though the range extends far on either side of that. Some are no bigger than a regular at-home coffee mug; others are large enough to keep you caffeinated the entire day. Brands often manufacture the same mug in multiple sizes, so if a specific one catches your eye, you can likely find it in a size you love. Customers interested in larger mugs should see if it is microwave-safe or able to retain heat well; otherwise, they may be sipping a lot of cold coffee. Finally, for those who plan on taking their mug in the car, check out customer reviews or product details to ascertain if a mug can fit in your cupholders.

While most travel mugs are made from stainless steel, options are far from limited when it comes to material. Other possibilities include plastic, glass, silicone, ceramic, and bamboo. This choice naturally affects a mug’s aesthetic, as well as larger factors like price, durability, how the item is cleaned, how long it retains heat, and whether condensation appears on the outside. What factors are most important to you? If you want a budget-priced mug that can go in the microwave, plastic is likely the best material for you. If durability and heat retention are higher priorities, you may want to stick with the stainless steel route. Also keep in mind the downsides that certain materials have. Plastic mugs, for instance, can stain and retain coffee odors, while some stainless steel mugs may unfavorably alter the flavor of your coffee.

If you sift through a list of travel mugs, you will likely come across the phrase "18/8 stainless steel." This denotes a type of stainless steel made from 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel.  Graham Nearn  of the Stanley brand says 18/8 stainless steel is often used for drinkware because it's "food-grade, durable, and resistant to corrosion."

Leak-Proof vs. Spill-Proof

Whether walking to class, embarking on a long hike, or heading out for the daily commute, it’s easier to transport a mug if it can be kept inside a bag; that’s where leak-proof travel mugs come in handy. They prevent even the slightest drop from escaping into your bag, no matter what. Make sure to read customer reviews beforehand, however, as some items advertised as leak-proof may not actually be up to the task. There is also a difference between leak-proof and spill-proof. Mugs labeled as spill-proof only prevent major spills from occurring; they are not safe to store in bags since they can still leak.

Taking a travel mug’s design into consideration involves two different paths. First, you can think about the item’s shape or silhouette. Do you want a mug with a handle? Or one thin enough to slide into a bag or backpack? Second, design also involves the many colors and patterns found on the outside of a mug. There is an array of options, from fun and playful to chic and striking, that can convey your personality with every sip.

Not only are most travel mugs affordable, but they also help customers save money by cutting down on daily trips to the coffee shop. The only type likely to break the bank are electric travel mugs. Other than that, budget picks are widely available both in-store and online. Some mugs cost as little as a bag of coffee beans. Size does generally impact price, however, as larger mugs tend to cost more than smaller ones, even if they are the same model. Expect plastic mugs to be the cheapest option, while glass, stainless steel, and ceramic are all slightly more expensive. 

When picturing a travel coffee mug, most envision a tall, tapered item similar to a reusable water bottle, but there are actually many options designed to look exactly like the mugs we use every day at home. Items in this category provide the feel and comfort of a regular coffee mug but with added heat retention and the luxury to take your joe on the go. Because they are smaller in capacity than most travel mugs (usually around 12 ounces), they are also slightly more affordable. Unfortunately, coffee-mug-style travel mugs aren’t leak-proof and don’t fit in cupholders because of their handles.

Portable Coffee Maker

Truly defining on-the-go coffee, there is a category for travel mugs that additionally function as portable brewing devices. They allow users to make coffee and drink it all from the same bottle. This is certainly a less common variety, but it’s still worth consideration, especially for frequent travelers and campers. The majority of portable coffee makers work like French presses. Aptly named “travel presses,” they immerse coffee grounds in water and then push them to the bottom of the mug via a built-in plunger. The second most common type of portable coffee maker utilizes a pour-over brewing method instead.

Well known for their smooth exterior, tumblers are the most popular subcategory of travel mugs. They never have a handle and the body usually tapers to a narrow base, both of which make them cupholder friendly. Tumblers can be used for both hot and cold beverages, but they are especially popular for iced coffee. Many have straw lids for easy sipping. Customers may be familiar with tumblers in other types of drinkware, as they are also used for cocktails, iced tea, lemonade, and general home use.

What is a vacuum-insulated mug?

The phrase “vacuum-insulated” pops up all over the place when searching for travel mugs. It’s also commonly used with another phrase: "double-walled." Both labels denote that a travel mug is built with two different layers, an inner wall and outer wall, and that the space between the layers is partially evacuated of air, creating a vacuum. This design allows drinks to retain their temperature for a longer period of time because they are less exposed to the outside air.

Can I make my travel mug retain temperature longer?

We all want the most out of our products, and this one small tip goes a long way: preheat or pre-cool your travel mug before use. Taking a few extra minutes to let hot or cold water sit in your mug will prime the material for better temperature retention. You can pour hot water from the tap or even boil it for an added boost of heat, all while your coffee is brewing.

How do I clean my travel mug?

Before cleaning, consult the product details or instruction guide to see if the item is dishwasher-safe. This is a common benefit of glass and plastic travel mugs but not stainless steel. If your mug isn’t dishwasher-safe, don’t worry. Cleaning is still quite easy. A simple daily cleaning only requires scrubbing with dish soap and a sponge or gentle brush. Avoid using steel wool brushes and harsh household cleaners on stainless steel mugs. For a more thorough job, allow a solution of vinegar and baking soda to soak inside the mug for several minutes, then rinse and clean with dish soap before using.

Can I add milk to my coffee if it’s in a travel mug?

Most brands advise against putting milk or creamer in thermoses unless it's for a brief amount of time. Bacteria can develop when dairy products are stored at warm temperatures, especially if the travel mug isn't properly cleaned. Graham Nearn of the Stanley brand echoed this thought, telling us: "We don’t recommend putting milk or dairy products in Stanley vacuum bottles or food jars for extended periods of time, as bacteria growth can occur at certain temperatures."

The Spruce Eats / Cheyenne Elwell

• Cheyenne Elwell is a freelance writer specializing in food and coffee. Her work has appeared in Business Insider, Insider, MSN, and her coffee blog BakedBrewedBeautiful.com.
• Suzie Dundas is a freelance writer and editor based in Lake Tahoe, California. Along with The Spruce Eats, her writing has appeared in Forbes, Fodor's, SkyLife Magazine, and Outdoor Sports Guide.
• Rebekah Joan is a writer and blogger located in Northwestern Pennsylvania. She has written for The Spruce Eats since 2019.
• Derek Rose has been The Spruce Eats' coffee and tea expert since 2019. His other work has appeared in Forbes, SPY, and Angi.

This piece was written by  Derek Rose , the coffee and tea expert for The Spruce Eats. He researches a variety of coffee products, from measuring scoops to commercial espresso machines, and interviews field experts for their insight. He has owned or tested a number of the items on this list, including the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug , the Copco Insulated Travel Mug , the S'Well Traveler Mug , and the Bubba 52-Ounce Insulated Desk Mug .

Graham Nearn , the Senior Vice President of Product Creation & Design for PMI Worldwide, was interviewed for this piece. He oversees the Stanley brand, which has manufactured vacuum flasks and more since 1913.

To help us provide you with free impartial advice, we may earn a commission if you buy through links on our site. Learn more

Best travel mug 2023: Tried and tested travel cups from Thermos, CamelBak and more

• Danielle Amato

Want tough, leak-free mugs that keep coffee hot for hours? We're here to help with our best travel mug roundup

Well designed and well insulated, the best travel mug will keep hot drinks toasty and cool drinks ice-cold, while also staying leak-free. From classic coffee-shop cups to thermos-shaped designs, travel mugs come in all shapes and sizes. At first glance, travel mugs can seem expensive. If you’re thinking about using one on your commute, you might find it hard to justify spending what might be five to ten times as much as an Americano from your local coffee shop. However, walking out of your door already holding a coffee will save you many more pounds in the long run and you’ll avoid those annoying queues.

To help you make an informed decision about which travel mug is right for you, we’ve put together a short buying guide below. Our at-a-glance list will take you directly through to buy some of our favourites or you can scroll further to find mini reviews on a variety of models for every style preference and budget.

Best travel mug: At a glance

• Best for hot drinks: Thermos | From £25
• Best one-handed mug: Stanley Classic | From £30
• Best plastic-free: Dualit Stainless Steel Travel Mug | £30
• Most stylish travel mug: Contigo Autoseal Luxe | £27
• Best all-rounder: Zojirushi SM-SA | £35

How to choose the best travel mug for you

How much do i need to spend.

Travel mugs vary in price, with the most costly coming in at over £30 and generally speaking, you get what you pay for. If you only need a travel mug for occasional use, you can make do with a standard option for under £10. However, if you want to use it every day for outdoor activities or on your commute, you’ll want something that promises to perform in terms of heat retention, spill protection and robustness.

What features should I look out for?

Look out for leak-proof extras such as autoseal and lockable lids, as well as easy-to-clean materials, as these are what set the best travel mugs apart from the cheaper options. If you need a mug that keeps drinks hot (or cold) for longer, you’ll need a double-wall, vacuum-insulated option, preferably constructed in stainless steel.

Again, you will always pay more for stainless steel, but it’s worth it if heat retention is a priority. If you have a tendency to drop things, it’s also wise to choose a mug that’s easy to grip. If you can’t quite allow yourself to part with over £20 for what’s essentially a coffee cup, opt for the next best composition, but ensure that the mug is double-walled.

Does it matter which size of mug I buy?

If you’ll be travelling by car with your mug, ensure you find a travel mug that fits a regular drinks holder and can be picked up with one hand. Travel mugs generally come in two sizes: around 360ml and around 470ml. The large options are perfect for carrying water or soup, but if it’s only ever going to be tea or coffee, you may want to get a smaller size, which fits better in your hand and under single-serve coffee machines.

READ NEXT: The best lunch boxes to buy

The best travel mugs you can buy in 2023

1. thermos: best travel mug for hot drinks.

It also features a slow flow option, which proves pretty handy when your coffee is still steaming hot after a few hours. The lockable seal makes it ideal for long train journeys without any worries about spillages; a nice additional touch is the teabag holder. The only real drawback is that it doesn’t fit into all standard car drinks holders – a considerable compromise given the price.

Key details – Size: 470ml; Materials: Stainless steel

Thermos 101834 Stainless King Travel Mug, Matt Black, 470 ml

2. stanley classic: best one-handed travel mug.

The most outstanding feature on this mug is its one-handed function in the form of a push-button lid, which allows users to drink while using their other hand, whether it’s browsing on your phone or operating a pickaxe. The Stanley Classic One Hand is the best choice for multitaskers.

Key details – Size: 470ml; Materials: Stainless steel, plastic

Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug 0.47L / 16OZ Nightfall ? Leakproof Cup | Hot & Cold Thermos Bottle | Vacuum Insulated Tumbler for Coffee, Tea & Water | BPA Stainless-Steel Travel Flask

3. dualit stainless steel travel mug: best plastic-free travel mug.

Aside from its eco credentials, this travel mug has plenty of deft design touches which make it a worthwhile buy. Its slim, minimalist design is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to pop into a backpack, tote, or handbag, while still boasting a generous 500ml capacity. Its well-insulated interior meant that, in our tests, it kept drinks hot for up to 7 hrs, or cold for up to 12 hrs, just as advertised. Finally, the removable spill barrier controls the flow of liquid from the mug, making for easy drinking while out and about, and the leak-proof lid proved extremely effective in transit.

Key details – Size: 500ml; Materials: Silicon, stainless steel

Dualit Travel Mug - 500ml Capacity - 5 Layer Insulation - Hot & Cold Beverages on The go - Leakproof Premium Sustainable Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Sip Barrier

4. contigo autoseal luxe: most stylish travel mug.

In testing, the Luxe kept our drinks hotter for longer than three hours in many cases and chilled for up to ten, though the temperature did drop during this time. We think it’s a decent price for a travel mug that will last you for years. Moreover, its slick design and impressive leak-proof features make it well worth the price.

Key details – Size: 360ml; Materials: Stainless steel

Contigo Luxe Autoseal Travel Mug, Stainless Steel Thermal Mug, Vacuum Flask, Leakproof Tumbler, dishwasher safe, Coffee Mug with BPA Free Easy-Clean Lid, Stainless Steel, 360 ml

5. zojirushi sm-sa: best all-round travel mug.

The mug is only leak-free when closed, and due to the difficulty of opening it, many users are likely to keep it open, thus increasing the likelihood of a spill. But once you’ve conquered the lid, this travel mug couldn’t be better for robustness, temperature retention and style. A great choice for those who like a bit of colour.

Key details – Size: 600ml; Materials: Plastic, stainless steel

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Non-Stick Vacuum Travel Mug - 600 ml, Red

6. s’well: best for hot and cool beverages.

Key details – Size: 485ml; Materials: Stainless steel

S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle - 17 Fl Oz - Onyx - Triple-Layered Vacuum-Insulated Containers Keeps Drinks Cold for 36 Hours and Hot for 18 - BPA-Free - Perfect for The Go

7. camelbak forge: best travel mug for features.

It’s also proved impressively watertight. Slightly frilly features include the strangely dubbed “aroma bowl”, which, according to the manufacturer, allows for a “superior drink interface”. This basically means you can test your drink’s temperature by allowing a small amount to be released.

The easy-clean cap puts function back to the fore, however, as it simply pulls out to be rinsed under the tap. This makes it perfect for non-fussy users happy with a quick rinse. It also features a plastic cap underneath to minimise the ill effects of a breakage to the main body of the mug. The finger loop is surprisingly handy too for when your hands are full.

Key details – Size: 500ml; Materials: Plastic, stainless steel

Check price at Go Outdoors

8. Contigo Autoseal West Loop: Best travel mug for commutes

Its easy-to-clean lid doesn’t have any loose parts and it can keep drinks cool for an impressive 12 hours. It’s also one of the best-looking mugs out there. This is a great choice for those with a bumpy journey to work… or butterfingers.

Key details – Size: 470ml; Materials: Plastic, stainless steel

Contigo West Loop Autoseal Travel Mug, Stainless Steel Thermal Mug, Vacuum Flask, Leakproof, Coffee Mug with BPA Free Easy-Clean Lid, Stainless Steel, 470 ml

The 8 Best Travel Mugs for Caffeinating on the Go

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

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

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

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

The Best Travel Mugs

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

What to Consider

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

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

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

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

Additional Features

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

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

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

How We Tested

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

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

YETI Rambler Stackable Mug

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

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

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

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

CamelBak Horizon Tumbler

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

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

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

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle

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

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

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

Hydro Flask Insulated Travel Portable Coffee Tumbler

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

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

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

Fellow Carter Everywhere Travel Mug

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

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

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

Espro P0 Ultralight Single Serve French Coffee Press

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

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

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

Zojirushi Stainless Travel Mug

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

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

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

Klean Kanteen Insulated Camp Mug

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

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

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

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

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

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Tested: The Best Travel Mugs For Hot & Cold Drinks On The Go

By: Ethan Brehm Published: Feb 15, 2024

By: Ethan Brehm and Cameron Cardwell Published: Feb 15, 2024

Contributors

There are a lot of travel mugs and commuter cups that claim to be “thermal,” but most of them are just cheap imitators that can’t keep a cup of coffee at the ideal temperature that the true drinker demands. Don’t get ripped off by any second-rate piece of plastic with a styrofoam insulator that claims it will keep your hot beverages hot and your cold beverages cool for long drives and long days at the office. Go with one of our picks from our guide to the best travel mugs, which we’ve tested and reviewed so you don’t have to.

Best Travel Mugs Breakdown

Best Budget Travel Mug

RTIC Travel Mug

Best Outdoor Mug

Yeti Rambler Mug

Best Hot Coffee Mug

KeepCup Travel Mug

Best Mug for Commuting

MiiR Flip Traveler

Best Mug Overall

Hydro Flask Coffee with Flex Sip Lid

Best Mug for the Car

Contigo Travel Mug

Best Coffee Mug for Instant Sipping

JoeVeo Temperfect Javabliss 16 Travel Mug

Best Large Mug

Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

Article Overview

How We Tested

What makes a good travel mug, travel mug comparison chart, why use a travel mug, single-wall vs. double-wall vs. triple-wall, honorable mentions, the best insulated water bottles.

Let’s be honest: There are a LOT of travel mug options out there, with new ones making their way into the space each year. With that, we had to distill that list down to a select few. To do so, we used our years’ worth of expertise and experience using these vessels to help us out. We also looked at who were the major players in the game, the feisty newcomers, and the trendy outliers. From there, we came up with a short list, looking at materials, aesthetics, claimed performance (prior to testing), features, and lid function, and sourced samples for testing.

Testing took several days and consisted of actually using these mugs for both hot and cold beverages, depending on their intended purposes. For starters, we filled up each mug halfway with ice and halfway with water. Then we checked the temperatures initially and came back to them 15 hours later to see how much the temperature rose (or dropped in one instance). We only did this for the mugs that were intended for all-day drinking and cold temperature retention. In other words, the few mugs that were specifically for hot water only got tested for hot water. However, we performed the hot water test for all 8 mugs. In a similar way to the cold water test, we checked the temperature at the start and revisited each mug after 6 hours (mugs can’t hold hot water for as long as cold). Another thing we did after filling each mug was turn it upside down and shake it somewhat vigorously to see how much water, if any, leaked out. While almost all of these claim to be spill-proof when sealed properly, not all of them are leak -proof. So we’ve presented our findings as a distinction between the two terms. All of our results and findings are detailed down below.

Travel mugs are generally best for coffee, tea, or any other hot (or cold) beverage you need on the go, making them ideal for commuting, traveling, and camping. It’s a better choice than disposable options from an environmental standpoint, but also from a health standpoint because you decide what’s going in there.

Size: 12oz to 24oz is the average range for most travel mugs (with 8oz – 12oz options available for smaller beverages like cappuccinos) and should be sufficient unless you can’t make frequent drink trips or consume entire pots of coffee. For those of you who do need more volume, there are options that get into the 32oz or 40oz territory.

Lid: Lids can vary slightly (and not so slightly) from mug to mug; they can twist open, flip open, snap shut, and even include a straw sometimes. Commuters might want something with a sturdy no-nonsense lid, and those who WFH may go for something with a flip top or a straw. Decide which lid works best with your lifestyle and feels best, and go for that one.

Material: Firstly, make sure whatever you buy is BPA-free, then decide if you want a tempered glass, plastic, or stainless steel mug . Stainless steel retains temperatures better, but glass is more sustainable and can be put in the dishwasher. Plastic is probably the worst of these choices, but there are some solid options out there.

Finish: While you might want a powder-coated finish to keep standard water bottles from slipping out of your hands, mugs often come with handles instead. However, many of the picks below will have some sort of extra grip, whether or not a handle is included.

Temperature Retention: Stainless steel options will often be vacuum-insulated (an added layer that keeps heat from getting in or out) and keep your drinks either hot or cold for a while. Since heat rises, going for mugs with smaller lids/lid openings will help with heat retention.

Maintenance: Most stainless steel mugs need to be washed by hand, as opposed to putting them in the dishwasher (which you can do with most glass and ceramic mugs).

Leak-Proof/Spill-Proof: As we mentioned up above, most travel mugs advertise themselves as spill-proof, but what does that really mean? Most of them won’t deluge water if toppled over, however, they might still leak if upside down or sideways for any amount of time. It’s important to distinguish the difference, especially if you’re planning on carrying these in your bag.

• Really good temp retention
• Sleek design
• Handle not super ergonomic
• Lid screws on so sipper opening is too close to handle

Best Budget Travel Mug: RTIC is a legendary name in drinkware, and in less than a decade. Known for offering unrivaled outdoor-ready gear at affordable price points, this 20-ounce option is not only incredibly cheap but looks like a travel mug that’s twice the price, especially considering the size (there’s also a 16oz size available). Compared a lot to YETI, RTIC still gets the job done with double-wall stainless steel insulation for temperature retention, a no-sweat exterior to eliminate condensation, and a splash-proof flip-top lid with an air-tight seal. Also, it’s dishwasher-safe!

If you’re looking for something simple for transporting your drink to and from work or school, or simply want a desktop vessel that can keep your coffee warm for a while, the RTIC Travel Mug will do the trick, and with a price tag much lower than the competition. Aesthetic-wise, it’s simple and sleek enough that nothing about it looks cheap, and it feels durable in your hand. Despite the plastic lid, which helps you see how much of your beverage you have left, the mug had some of the best temperature retention, only gaining 3.6ºF in 15 hours.

My biggest gripe is the lid itself. Aside from being difficult to open upon first use (also there’s a lip on one side that almost implies it’s a seal-on rather than twist-on), the flip-top always lands too close to the handle when twisted all the way. I suppose if you really wanted to force it, you could make it so the sipper was in a better position, but no one should have to use a vice-grip in order to drink from a lid properly. Also, the handle design is pretty uncomfortable with its thin, sharper edges. Surprisingly enough, the RTIC Travel Mug was actually one of the least prone to leaking on this list. Even without clamping the lid all the way on, not a single drop came out of it when shaken upside down. This can be attributed to the actual effectiveness of the flip-top plug, which is pretty deep, despite being fairly easy to snap on and off.

Verdict: The lid design doesn’t make sense with its twist-on function –– not to mention, it restricts which hand you can grab it with –– but RTIC still makes the best budget travel mug around and has some incredible leak resistance and temperature retention.

Size: 20oz Material: 18/8 stainless steel Cap: Flip-Top Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): 3.6ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 54.2ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: Yes

• Secure sipper closure
• Nice-sized sipper opening
• Surprisingly leak-proof
• Won’t fit in many cupholders
• Difficult to open without spilling

Best Outdoor Mug: Since 2006, YETI has been making products (starting with coolers) that stand up to tough conditions and don’t leave you hanging like the mass-produced retail options. Since then, the brand has garnered a lot of popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and people who just appreciate good build quality. And the label’s Rambler Mug is a shining example of this quality, made with double-wall vacuum insulation that’ll keep drinks (and food) as hot and cold as you’d like. This is a great choice for the campsite, and can even be thrown in the dishwasher, unlike most other stainless steel mugs. Plus, it’s stackable, which makes it easier for packing if you have more than one. We tested the 14oz mug, but there are 10oz and 24oz versions too.

We all know YETI’s prowess when it comes to vacuum-sealed water bottles, but the brand is also superb when it comes to other drinking vessels. The smaller size of this 14-ounce Rambler makes it better for sipping hot beverages, as does its sipping lid. The clear top allows you to see how much you have left inside, or you can remove the lid altogether to let your drink cool down a bit faster. After all, the stainless steel construction will keep this hot for much longer than you probably intend it to. Despite the diminutive stature, the Rambler is deceptively capacitious. Aside from the satisfying action of operating the sliding cover over the sipper, the slider itself feels firm when both opened and closed. Other versions of this on other mugs seem flimsy and more prone to leaking. However, after being jostled around a bit, I couldn’t find much leaking coming from the lid or its sipper cover –– only minimal moisture collecting around parts of the edges.

It’s also important to note that the nature of the sealed cap makes it pretty difficult to open up. Sure, this helps prevent leaking but the fact that you’ll have to tilt this at an angle and use force makes it virtually impossible to open when liquid is already inside. Say you just want to top off your coffee or tea –– forcing the lid open when the mug is half full will undoubtedly lead to spillage. The handle feels good in hand and will fit about three fingers when held. Also, the non-twist lid lets you position the sipper hole where you want in relation to the handle for more ergonomic comfort.

Verdict: High on durability, yet relatively lightweight, the YETI Rambler is a fantastic option for drinking coffee and tea on camping trips. Despite being difficult to open with liquid inside, the lid has a sipper hole that isn’t too small, which is great for not burning your tongue on hotter beverages, while the slide opener prevents leaks pretty well.

Size: 14oz Material: 18/8 stainless steel Cap: Open mouth with slide sipper Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): N/A Temperature Loss (6hrs): 78.1ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: No

• Unique design
• Can fit under coffee machines
• Glass is really tough
• Technically breakable
• Sipper plug comes off too easily

Best Hot Coffee Mug: After two Melbourne baristas saw how much waste was involved with coffee making and drinking, they decided to make the KeepCup, a reusable mug, that hit the land down under in 2009. Now the KeepCup is beloved worldwide, thanks to the mug’s coffee-friendly design made with tempered glass, a cork band, and a splashproof lid. It even fits under most espresso and coffee machines, so you can get your favorite local coffee to go while preserving its flavor and temperature. It comes in four different sizes: 6oz, 8oz, 12oz, and 16oz, although we only reviewed the 12oz version.

The first thing you’ll notice with the KeepCup is its unique design. While the cork band is mostly for aesthetic purposes, it can also help provide an extra bumper if this thing happens to fall or bang against another item or surface. On the other hand, it doesn’t help much with the grip, yet adds an extra layer of thickness that makes it more difficult to hold in your hand. I wouldn’t complain if KeepCup made a version of its flagship model with a handle. Although it’s made of glass, the mug is one of the most durable-feeling glass mugs we’ve used; I can’t imagine it breaking easily. With a lower hot liquid temperature retention time, the glass wall will also be favorable for those who hate steel mugs that make it difficult to drink hot coffee quickly.

For sipping, the lid opening is triangular shaped and is large enough that sipping isn’t unproductive; this isn’t a Starbucks lid. In the center of the lid is a piece that swivels so that you can cover the opening when you’re not drinking or be turned when you want to leave it open. Even though the plug doesn’t quite “snap” into place like I expected, it also didn’t allow leakage when I turned it upside down and shook it. Likewise, the entire lid itself feels like it’s not incredibly secure. I kept thinking it wasn’t on all the way. However, even when I tossed it onto the ground and let it tumble a bit, only a few drops presented themselves around the sipping hole (which, technically, means it’s not entirely leak-proof, but this is still impressive). I was taken aback when the sipper hole cover piece came off the lid, exposing a giant hole in the center of the lid. Then I figured this would make it easier for cleaning . I just wish it didn’t come off so unintentionally; it was much too easy to over-twist this swivel piece.

Verdict: Overall, it’s a lot of fun to use the KeepCup and it will certainly add a stylish element to your desktop space. We don’t recommend putting this in your backpack with liquid inside but it won’t spill if you’re traveling with it in a car. Glass is an attractive option for quicker coffee drinkers who don’t want to wait for the cool-down times of steel mugs. Even though the lid on this model feels a bit flimsy and cheap compared to other options, the company has the right idea.

Size: 12oz Material: Tempered glass and cork Cap: Flip-top Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): N/A Temperature Loss (6hrs): 103.3ºF Dishwasher Safe?: No Leak-Proof?: No

• Really sleek design
• Pretty leak-proof
• Good for tossing into backpack or bag
• Sipping is a challenge; flip-top gets in the way

Best Mug for Commuting: The independently owned label MiiR is a certified B Corporation with a Climate Neutral certification, and a mission to craft products that benefit not just the user, but the environment. MiiR’s Flip Traveler is a sleek, simple, and effective travel mug that’s perfect for your commute in that it is leak-proof for carrying in a bag , fits easily into your cupholder, and sports an easy one-handed flip top. It’s made with vacuum-insulated stainless steel to keep your drinks at the perfect temp, and even features an insulated spill-proof lid. Additionally, it’s coated in the label’s Hardshell Powder Coat, making it more durable. We took a look at the 16oz model (12oz and 20oz versions are also available).

As we’ve seen with its other models, such as its Insulated Water Bottle, MiiR really knows how to bring subtle design changes to traditional vessels without losing their recognizability as that object. Case in point is this minimal travel mug, which sports a sleek body and an angular design up top. Easy to open for filling compared to other mugs and bottles, the Flip Traveler sports a lid with a flip-top sipper design that snaps into place to prevent leaking. This proved to be almost true upon shaking the bottle upside down, although some drops did come out. Likewise, there’s no equivocality in whether the top is opened or closed thanks to the effort it takes to snap it shut. This is great if you’re carrying the mug inside your backpack or gym bag (although there are certainly better gym options out there). In the way of our testing, the MiiR had the best heat retention numbers and second-best coldness retention numbers.

In terms of a practical drinking vessel, the Flip Traveler may prove to be more impractical than most. The flip-top doesn’t open far enough and bumps into your nose when drinking, preventing you from doing so comfortably. Likewise, if you’re looking for a single-hand mug, the MiiR will be troublesome due to how difficult it is to open its flip-top. It’s almost impossible to do this without two hands, and closing it requires a bit of extra force. This isn’t an issue if you’re leaving it open for a car ride . However, if you forget to close it or merely think it’s closed all the way, you could have a messy situation. Despite the claim that the outer wall was powder-coated, it was highly slippery in my hand.

Verdict: Stylish and fairly leak-proof, the MiiR will give you some issues when it comes to actually sipping your beverage with a flip-top that simply gets in the way and can’t be opened or closed single-handedly. Nevertheless, the Flip Traveler is a solid commuter option for those who don’t want a giant bottle taking up space and adding weight to their work bag. Plus it has the best heat retention and second-best cold retention of the vessels we tested.

Size: 16oz Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel Cap: Flip-top Finish: Powder-coated Temperature Gain (15hrs): 2.9ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 42.1ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Lid only (top rack) Leak-Proof?: No

• Multiple lid options
• Great construction
• Feels good in hand
• Silicone handle is useful
• Lifetime warranty
• Can be tricky to use while driving

Best Mug Overall: If you don’t already have a Hydro Flask (or somehow have never seen one), then you’re missing out on the Oregon-based label’s outdoor-friendly and durable products. Since they’ve taken the world by storm, Hydro Flasks began receiving new iterations, like this insulated mug here that’s part of the company’s coffee-focused lineup , which is backed by a lifetime warranty. Holding 16oz of liquid (12oz and 20oz options available too), it gives you 12 hours of hot drinks and 24 hours of cold drinks, with a leakproof Flex Sip lid that provides a simple way to drink without spilling.

In terms of hitting all the marks well, this Hydro Flask Coffee is a winner. It’s easy to carry with a comfortable silicone strap attached to the lid and it minimizes spillage when turned upside down. The cap is easy to take on and off, and you can tighten it pretty well if you try. While the powder-coating could be more aggressive like some of the brand’s other options, it has a nice in-hand feel and has solid temperature retention without being too heavy. Perhaps the best part about Hydro Flask aside from its tried-and-true quality is its lid options. Aside from this sip lid, there’s the chug cap, sport cap, and straw cap. However, if you’re really looking for a travel mug, especially for drinks like coffee, the sip lid is the way to go. It might not be as pleasant to physically sip from as others on this list in terms of the flow of the liquid, but it’s better for hot beverages and seems to slow down liquid on its way to your mouth.

The biggest downside of the Hydro Flask Coffee is how difficult it is to open while driving. The twisting operation of the sip lid requires two hands and has a good deal of resistance even then. However, this can be remedied if you simply leave the cap open on your car ride. Plus, if you forget to close it back up, the depth of the lid will minimize most incidental spillage. On the other hand, when closed properly, this bottle proved to be leak-proof when shaken upside down. Some users have noted that if the silicone strap breaks, you have to replace the entire lid. But the sturdiness of the strap makes it hard to imagine it getting damaged in the first place.

Verdict: Benefitting from top-to-bottom construction excellence, the Hydro Flask Coffee has decent temperature retention, a stylish aesthetic, and multiple lid options. It’s difficult to open and close single-handedly, but the advantages of this vessel far outweigh its drawbacks.

Size: 16oz Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel Cap: Twist-top sipper Finish: Powder-coated Temperature Gain (15hrs): 6.7ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 49.9ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: Yes

• Fits in cupholder despite holding a lot
• Autoseal button closes sipping hole when not in use
• Leak proof when Autoseal is locked
• Not leak proof when Autosal is unlocked
• Below average temp retention, but still not terrible

Best Mug for the Car: It’s ideal for the commuter thanks to the simple, one-handed flip design. The brand’s patented Autoseal technology allows the sipper to open up when you need it with the push of a button, but even more, it closes automatically so you can’t accidentally forget. It is guaranteed to be completely leakproof whether you are shaking it, rocking it, or rattling it. Stands up to the worst you can throw at it for those times when you just need a little caffeine after you roll your car. Works for both righties and lefties with equal ease. Large enough for even the hardiest coffee fiend and simple to use at 24 oz (16oz and 20oz options available too). If you need style and substance without dropping a lot of dough, the Contigo has you covered. Comes with a lifetime warranty against defects and provides up to 5 hours of hot drinks and 12 hours of cold drinks.

Car mugs are hit or miss, and many of them are great in one regard but terrible in another. However, the Contigo Travel Mug doesn’t have a lot of flaws, at least not where driving and (non-alcoholic) drinking is concerned. The Autoseal is a great feature that allows this mug to be spill-proof while also making it fun to use. You literally just press the Autoseal button firmly and sip from a hole on the other side. Also, the flow of the liquid was pleasantly paced. This is one attribute that can’t get controlled a whole lot with simple openings in a lid. However, the canal shape required of this particular contraption allows it to have a unique drinking experience.

While it’s spill-proof, it’s not technically leak-proof when the Autoseal is unlocked. Shaken upside down, quite a few drops still came out, but this shouldn’t be much of an issue if the bottle just topples over on the table. On the other hand, if you use the Autoseal lock, this mug is about as leak-proof as they come, just like the brand claims. I do wish, however, that the Autoseal lock were easier to press. It often got stuck when wet and I had to use two fingers to push. While the 8.3ºF temperature gain over 15 hours isn’t bad, it’s still the worst of the ones tested. I was honestly surprised it did so badly considering the density of the lid. But upon further inspection, it makes sense because the seal itself isn’t terribly wide.

Verdict: Not many 24-ounce travel mugs can fit inside cupholders as well as the Contigo Travel Mug. Add to that the ability to seal the drinking spout automatically when not in use and you have yourself the ultimate car ride sipper. Priced fairly, this mug really doesn’t have a lot of flaws outside of below-average temperature retention. However, it will still serve most people’s needs just fine.

Size: 24oz Material: 18/8 Stainless Steel Cap: Push-button flip-top Finish: Metallic Temperature Gain (15hrs): 8.3ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 52.7ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Lid only (top rack) Leak-Proof?: No

• Reduces hot temp to drinkable temp in 3min
• Nice aesthetic
• Silicone grip feels good in hand
• Lid’s lip is too large

Best Coffee Mug for Instant Sipping: A big issue with travel mugs when it comes to coffee or other hot drinks is the inability to drink right away. In a standard coffee mug, the liquid cools down instantly and most people drink it fast enough that it can retain a level of warmness the entire time. But if you need coffee on the go, the temperature retention of most steel vessels prevents you from sipping for hours unless you pour it into a separate mug for drinking. However, this Temperfect from JoeVeo uses an innovative system that brings the temperature down to a drinkable level in just 3 minutes AND keeps it at that drinkable level for hours.

Obviously, when a product makes a claim such as the JoeVeo, it’s natural to try and see if it can follow through. As such, to test this specific mug, we checked the temperature right as the coffee was poured and then again 3 minutes later (with the lid on). In that short amount of time, the coffee went from 162ºF to 146ºF –– pretty impressive. I wanted to see how much it would drop after 5 more minutes, this time with the lid open. Lo and behold, the temperature stayed relatively the same, this time hovering around 144.5ºF. If you’re someone who likes to drink coffee quickly, this might still be too hot, compounded even more by the fact that it’s being held at that temperature indefinitely, more or less. On the other hand, coffee sippers will love how drinkable their beverage is in such a short amount of time.

As far as the drinking experience, the anti-slosh sipper shutter isn’t terribly reliable when it comes to leakage. It’s essentially the same effect as if you were to use your finger to cover the opening –– although the brand acknowledges this in the product description online. Likewise, the lip of the lid is just slightly too deep for sipping comfortably. From an aesthetic standpoint, the JoeVeo has an attractive design language, with a silicone sleeve that provides a firm grip in your hand. I also like the silicone base, which eliminates noisy set-downs on your desk. However, as someone with a caffeine addiction, 16oz is a bit small for me (I drink around 64oz of coffee per day ) so I would have loved it if there were a larger size option.

Verdict: Poor lid execution aside, the JoeVeo sports an attractive design and stays put in your hand with a silicone grip. It will definitely leak and is difficult to sip from but the mug follows through on its promise to deliver drinkable hot coffee in just three minutes.

Size: 16oz Material: Stainless Steel Cap: Anti-slosh sipper shutter Finish: Brushed and electropolished with silicone sleeve Temperature Gain (15hrs): N/A Temperature Loss (6hrs): 59.9ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Lid only Leak-Proof?: No

• Holds 40oz inside your cupholder
• Straw or sipping options
• Comfortable handle
• Negative temperature retention
• Dual drinking options aren’t entirely practical
• Difficult to switch drinking modes
• Not spill-proof

Best Large Mug: This is probably the cup your dad used (and still uses) whenever you went camping as a kid. However, we’ve all seen how trendy Stanley Tumblers have become with the younger crowd in today’s viral society. But don’t let the trends fool you; Stanley is a heritage brand through and through, around since 1913, when the founder brought vacuum insulation and steel together to create a rugged cup that can stay hot. You can also trust that the historical quality of this brand translates to its insulated travel mug. It’s made with recycled materials, and the label’s FlowState lid, which offers a full cover top, a drink opening, and an opening for the included straw so it doesn’t spill while using it. Additionally, it’s dishwasher safe and comes with a lifetime warranty. For those who drink a lot during the day and want minimal refills, this 40-ounce option is a great pick, although it’s available in several sizes from 14oz to 30oz.

It’s easy to deride a product that’s become a fad but Stanley’s Tumbler makes it so difficult. For starters, the sheer design that intuitively allows for 40oz of liquid to be held in your car’s cupholder is brilliant. The tapered bottom half has made this mug desirable in and of itself. I also liked how comfortable the handle felt in my hand. Wisely, it’s a different, softer material than the steel mug, which is a crucial element with a thermos this size because it can get quite heavy. As for the cold temperature retention, this mug actually lost degrees over 15 hours and was the only one that still had ice left inside.

As nice as it is to have options between a sipper and a straw, the actual application of this feature is a bit gimmicky. The triple-function lid does not open and close very easily, which can be an issue when you have a full mug of coffee on a bumpy car ride. It almost always requires two hands to operate. Likewise, if you’re out for the day and have decided to switch from the straw to the sipper, you’ll have to find a place for the straw in the meantime. A remedy for this requires you to make the executive decision of sipper-versus-straw before you leave the house. Likewise, the sipper opening is a bit too close to the handle, just like the RTIC above. However, it doesn’t disable you from sipping outright, and at least you’re able to drink this while holding it with your right hand (the cupholder side). Another important thing to note is that the Stanley is in no way spill-proof, let alone leak-proof, and was the only one in this guide where lots of spillage occurred when it was tilted upside down. It was pouring out water even lying on its side. The lid loosens far too easily, which can be a major issue for a lot of people.

Verdict: Stanley’s Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler may be the most trendy on this list but it definitely delivers in a lot of ways. The unique design lets you easily travel with 40oz of your beverage of choice and the phenomenal cold temperature retention is a big plus. Not to mention, the handle is comfortable to hold despite the heavier weight of the tumbler. We didn’t love the lid necessarily, which isn’t spill-proof, but this might not be an issue if you love everything else this mug can do.

Size: 40z Material: Recycled Stainless Steel Cap: Rotating lid with straw and sipper Finish: N/A Temperature Gain (15hrs): -2.9ºF Temperature Loss (6hrs): 45.3ºF Dishwasher Safe?: Yes Leak-Proof?: No

With the myriad options of insulated water bottles these days, one might wonder why a travel mug is a preferable option. Well, for one, mugs are better for hot liquids for their ability to sip rather than chug. Smaller holes on top give you the ability to nurse your coffee or tea rather than meet a daily goal, like you would with water. Likewise, mugs are usually much smaller, which is also better for beverages you don’t want a lot of. On the other hand, you wouldn’t be blamed if you wanted to bring along an insulated water bottle AND a travel mug –– in fact, a lot of people do it.

While a vast majority of stainless steel bottles and mugs are double-wall insulated, you’ll come across single- or triple-wall options every so often. If you’re wondering what double-wall means, it essentially refers to the two layers of stainless steel that have had the air between them vacuumed out in order to limit heat transfer. On the contrary, triple-wall insulation doesn’t mean a third wall of steel but actually a layer of copper between the two steel walls, which helps further insulation. Although the jury is still out on if this is actually necessary or just a marketing ploy. As for single-wall insulation mugs, these may be appealing to those who don’t care as much about temperature retention and want something a bit lighter in weight.

One popular budget option is Zojirushi’s Stainless Steel Mug , a cupholder-friendly flip-top thermos with interesting tech that includes partial vacuum construction which allows for some air between the two walls. The Contigo is similarly priced and has some better features, but the Zojirushi is a popular choice as well.

While the Carter Wide Mug from Fellow has a great design and construction, we preferred the similar YETI Mug above. It’s a popular choice for its aesthetic and performance but lacks a handle and can’t fit in most cupholders.

BruMate’s NAV 22oz is a great choice with its extra capacity thanks to the contoured shape. The company always comes to the party with innovation and originality. However, their products always seem to get discontinued quickly, which prevented its inclusion here.

Despite its design-forward silhouette, the Kinto Travel Tumbler narrowly missed the cut because it lacked a lot of desirable “travel” features, such as a handle and an actual sipping lid, meaning you have to remove the entire lid to sip from it — not ideal. 

Another option that’s more form than function is the Hitch Bottle & Cup Kit , which sports a cool industrial minimalism but feels impractical for actual traveling.

While we love travel mugs for our coffee and tea on the go, we need much more capacity for our hydration needs. Take a look at our best water bottles guide for H20-specific solutions.

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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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11 Travel Mugs to Take on The Road | Best Travel Mug

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or need it to function in the morning, we’ve found your next favorite travel mug.

Regardless of where you wake up, coffee or tea are great ways to ensure you’re ready to take on the day. Sometimes, jetlag gets to you, or you spend too much time on the town the night before; regardless, you don’t want to waste your time traveling.

To drink a warm beverage, you need something to put it in. This list will cover every kind of travel mug imaginable, from models you can take to the backcountry to those that will warm your hands while exploring a new city on mid-winter break. If neither of those is your style, we’ve planned multiple stops in between! Hopefully, at the end of the journey, you’ll be ready to purchase the best travel mug for you.

We’ve teamed up with REI since it’s a great place to start searching for gear, whether it’s clothing, a new bag, or other travel essentials. You can get even more from the store with an REI Co-op Membership , including an average of 10% back annually on eligible purchases, free shipping, and a generous return policy. Members also get access to the Re/Supply store, where you can choose from returned gear that’s been thoroughly inspected. Or, trade in your used items for other members to enjoy!

• Hydro Flask 12 oz Coffee with Flex Sip Lid
• REI Co-op Graphic Camp Mug
• YETI Rambler 12 oz Bottle with HotShot Cap
• Purist Collective Maker 10 oz Mug
• Sea to Summit Delta Light Insulated Mug
• GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug
• Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug 12 oz
• Zojirushi Stainless Mug (SM-KHE48)
• Lykka Kvarting Insulated Coffee Mug
• Chilly's Series 2 Coffee Cup
• Snow Peak Kanpai Bottle 350ml

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

Why We Like It: The handle makes it easy to take just about anywhere

What You Should Know: The lid doesn’t vent very well

If you are looking for a travel mug that can do it all and then some, look no further than the 12 oz Coffee Mug from Hydro Flask with the Flex Sip Lid. The insulation is stellar, so your drink will stay hot (or cold) all day long. Due to the size of the mug, it isn’t heavy either, so it won’t weigh you down. Plus, the Flex Sip Lid creates a complete seal, so you don’t have to worry about it leaking if your journey takes a walk down the wild side.

We dig the handle on this thing—you can carry the mug with it, attach it to a carabiner, or stow it on a hook in a public bathroom, so you don’t have to set it on the grimy floor.

If you like a giant coffee in the morning, the downfall of this model is that it only holds 12 ounces of liquid. However, if you’re a one-cup kind of person, this might be the best travel

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

Why We Like It: Lots of fun colorways to choose from

What You Should Know: The handle stops it from fitting in some cupholders

Let’s be honest; who doesn’t love a fun graphic? REI has a load of mugs with unique artist prints on them, and we dig the colorful models we’ve got on hand. Whether camping with the family or loading up for a road trip, you’ll get a kick every time you take a sip from this mug.

Once you’ve found a print that works for the vibes you’re trying to project, pour your hot drink of choice and start your day. Depending on the cupholders in your car, the handle might get in the way or take up two instead of one. The top isn’t as rugged as others on this list, but look at how cute it is!

If you aren’t going offroading and want a taste of home, this travel mug is for you.

Why We Like It: Keeps your drink hot or cold all day long

What You Should Know: Not enough capacity to hold a day’s worth of drink

When it comes to drinking coffee, we’re all different. Some folks like to guzzle a cup down as soon as they wake up and are set; however, some enjoy sipping all morning long. If you fall into the latter, the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle might be your best travel mug.

As far as perks go, the YETI will keep your drink hot or cold all day long, no matter where the road takes you. In addition to stellar temperature control, this mug is durable and looks sleek on the trail or in the office.

When you return from your trip, toss it in the dishwasher and use it again the next day!

Best for: Professional Travelers

Why We Like It: Is lined with glass on the interior to ensure no metallic taste

What You Should Know: At just 10 ounces, it’s smaller than a reguar cup of coffee

If you want your travel mug to look as fancy as the espresso you drink every morning, the Purist Maker Mug might be just what you’re looking for. The exterior is sleek, fits into the palm of your hand, and won’t call extra attention to your caffeine addiction.

However, the most unique design choice is on the interior. This travel mug is crafted from stainless steel, but there’s a thin layer of glass on the interior to ensure the metal doesn’t taint the taste. After all, your coffee should taste just as you want, whether commuting to work or exploring an early morning meat market.

The Scope Top makes sipping easy—unscrew it slightly, take a drink, and tighten it up again. It’s just 10 ounces, which might not work for heavy coffee drinkers.

Best for: Frugal Travelers

Why We Like It: Extraordinarily lightweight

What You Should Know: Has an outdoorsy or backpacking look

If saving weight is at the top of your to-do list, look no further than the Sea to Summit DeltaLight Insulated Mug! This thing is incredibly light, coming in at just 2.8 ounces, and can be used for a handful of things other than coffee.

The lid is crafted from silicone to save weight and be more flexible—and there’s a small slip hole so you can drink on the go. The insulation sleeve is removable, so you can pack it inside the mug when you aren’t using it. The mug can double as a food container if you need a place to stow a non-liquid snack. If you need to measure something, there are volumetric markings on the interior to help ensure you’ve measured the right metric or imperial amount of water for your coffee. Once you’ve finished, it’s small enough to fit in a large sling or rain jacket pocket.

Put plain and simple, the Sea to Summit DeltaLight Insulated Mug is the best travel mug for those looking for an option that can do many unique things. However, some might not dig that it looks outdoorsy.

Why We Like It: Has an easy to use handle that folds away when not in use

What You Should Know: Not the sleekest design we’ve seen

If you enjoy a rugged adventure now and then, the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug will get your coffee where you need it to go. It comes in at 3.5 ounces and has a spill-resistant topper with a sealable spout.

There’s a cloth insulation sleeve that looks and feels a bit like a drink koozie with an added handle that makes holding onto the mug easy. Or, while in the car, fold the handle down, so it fits into your cupholder. Once you finish your drink, leave the spout open and attach the mug to the exterior of your travel backpack or daypack with a carabiner to dry.

The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug isn’t the most stylish model we’ve come across; however, its ruggedness and modularity give it a leg up in the race for the best travel mug for outdoor adventurers.

Why We Like It: The trigger is easy to manipulate, even with one hand

What You Should Know: The cap can be difficult to clean

Stanley is an industry standard in the United States regarding rugged travel mugs. First crafted by William Stanley Jr. in the 1910s, the company made its name manufacturing bottles for the U.S. Army during World War II. You can’t get much more rugged than that!

Drinking coffee on the way to work or while camping requires less durability, but the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug treats all trips the same. The Trigger-Action top is easy to open, even with just one hand, so that you can sip your coffee with a briefcase or a fishing pole in the other arm.

We’ve found the cap challenging to clean, especially without a proper brush, so do a thorough job before you leave for your trip. You can get by with quick cleans until you return!

If you’re looking for a standard 12-ounce offering that can hold up to anything you throw at it, look no further than the Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug.

Best for: Full-time Travelers

Why We Like It: Slim profile works for those with smaller hands

What You Should Know: Not dishwasher safe

Many popular mugs are hard to hold if you have smaller hands—especially once you reach the 16-ounce threshold. Folks with small manus might have to choose between the best travel mug and one that fits in their hand, which is a bummer.

Enter the Zojirushi Stainless Mug. This offering is taller than you might expect a 16-ounce mug to be, but it’s thinner around the base, so those with small hands can grab it quickly. That isn’t the only reason we like it, however.

The Zojirushi looks sleek and has a locking lid and gasket to prevent leaks. A plastic mouthpiece helps with pouring, too, although it does tend to dribble a little.

Whether you’re looking for something that fits in your hand or a travel mug with a locking lid, the Zojirushi is an excellent shout.

Why We Like It: Heat exchange technology keeps your hands warm or cold depending what you have stowed inside

What You Should Know: Can leak heat, cooling or warming your drink prematurely

Are your hands constantly cold in the winter and warm in the summer? Besides eating more leafy greens to promote blood flow, the Lykka Kvarting Insulated Coffee Mug is here to help.

This travel mug utilizes heat exchange technology to transfer the temperature of the inside of the mug to the outside, so your hot coffee will warm up your hands in the winter, and your iced latte will keep your hands or cheek cold in the summer. However, there are a few caveats.

The heat exchange technology requires a chemical reaction to work correctly, so you need to shake the mug to activate, and it only works for a few seconds. If the contents are extraordinarily cold or hot, it can be shocking for your hands, so be careful where you put the mug!

If you want to ensure your hands stay comfortable, the Lykka Kvarting Insulated Coffee Mug might be your best travel mug!

Why We Like It: An extraordinarily leak and odor proof design

For those who want to take the taste of their favorite coffee with them everywhere—but not the smell or leaks—the Chilly's Series 2 Coffee Cup is a worthy option. It keeps both at bay with a unique locking design.

While ordering, you can pay a little extra to have something engraved into the bottle, so you know which travel mug belongs to you or to give it as a gift to a friend or family member. Or, show off your personality with one of the infinite color or design combinations.

The mug isn’t dishwasher safe, so you must hand wash it. It’s a small price to pay for a travel mug as unique as this one; odds are, your hotel in Paris won’t have a dishwasher anyway!

Why We Like It: Comes with three caps for different use cases

What You Should Know: The insulation works so well it can keep your coffee at a dangerous temperature for a long time

If you like to drink different things in different ways from your travel mug, the Snow Peak Kanpai Bottle is the right option for you. There are three lids, so you can choose the one that best matches the drink you’re sipping or meets the vibe of the day you’re having.

Plus, this bottle utilizes double-wall technology to keep your drink hot or cold and isn’t heavy to weigh you down. The three lids can be a lot to keep track of, and the insulation works so well that your coffee might be hotter than expected. However, when used properly, those aren’t necessarily cons.

Whether you’re crossing the city of the globe, the Snow Peak Kanpai Bottle is an excellent shout for the best travel mug out there.

So whether you want something rugged for the trail or a mug to traverse the concrete jungle with, we think you’ll find the best travel mug for you somewhere on this list. No matter what’s on your itinerary, check out REI before packing. Members get great perks like free shipping and great deals on gear! Happy travels!

March 14, 2023

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

Best travel mug 2023: re-useable coffee cups for drinking on the go

Sick of vending machine coffee at Starbucks prices? Take your favourite blend on the road in a handy travel coffee cup, from stainless steel flasks to cutesy cup designs

Travel mugs, also known as reusable coffee cups, have become increasingly popular recently, as we become more aware of the effects single-use options have on the environment. Some coffee shops even offer a discount on their drinks if you present your own cup, instead of taking one of theirs.

So while a travel mug might cost the equivalent of a week’s worth of morning commute coffees, you’ll start to earn your money back over time - while also knowing you’re doing your bit to help reduce unnecessary waste.

But which one should you go for, and what features - and designs - and worth looking out for?

You should pair the best travel mug with one of the best coffee machines and carry them in one of the Best backpacks.

If you prefer your beverages chilled, you can check out our guide to the best water bottles and best thermos flask .

How to buy the best travel coffee mug for you

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

Toughness and a locking lid are key here, unless you want to find mysterious puddles of coffee in the bottom of your bag or worse, seeping through the keyboard of your laptop. While we can forgive a throwaway paper cup from disintegrating, a travel coffee mug should be solidly built and with a secure locking mechanism.

Stainless steel is a popular option for travel coffee mug, as it will shrug off much of what your daily commute has to throw at it.

Next up is the mug’s thermal qualities. A cheaper option designed to keep your morning coffee hot for an hour of so will be perfect for the commute, as you can easily grab a refill when you get to the office. But if you plan on taking a hot beverage further afield, you should consider a thermos option, as these claim to keep their contents hot - or cold, if that’s what you’re after - for hours on end. Handy if you find yourself stuck up a mountain on a weekend hike gone awry.

Then you’ll want to consider the design and size of your travel coffee mug. Yes, aesthetics shouldn’t really matter, but when you’re using something every day you will probably want it to look nice - as well as being easy to hold and store in your bag. 

Many come in a range of colours too, helping you stand out from the crowd, or fit right in with the masses, whichever you prefer.

Our pick of the best travel coffee mugs to buy today

1. S’well Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug 340ml

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The S’well travel mug is available in a wide range of sizes, colours and finishes. But for this article we’ve opted for the smaller 340ml model, in a blue/grey colour called Night Sky.

This mug offers a travel-friendly size with an ergonomic design and a wide mouth making it easy to insert ice to cool or fruit to infuse with. There’s no official word on how long this mug keeps your drinks hot or cold, but owners report they get in the region of four to five hours of heat, and 24 hours of cold. The former isn’t a huge amount, but given it carries a smaller amount we can’t see this being a complete deal-breaker.

The travel flask is triple-walled for a condensation-free exterior, so your hands (and the contents of your bag) stay nice and dry.

2. Contigo Autoseal West Loop Stainless Steel Travel Mug

We love the sleek shape and shiny finish of this travel coffee mug, but when it comes down to it, it’s all about the performance – and the performance is very good indeed. 

Its autoseal technology locks firmly when not in use with the slide of a button, and when “on”, you push the button to drink, ensuring your brew will never go anywhere unless you absolutely want it to. The big selling point is its insulation: it keeps hot drinks hot for 4 hours, and cold drinks cold for a whopping 12. A great all-rounder that’ll last forever and looks pretty good too.

3. Thermos Stainless King Travel Tumbler, Midnight Blue, 470 ml

From iconic brand Thermos, this stainless steel travel coffee mug is the last word in knock-proof, shock-proof, incredibly stable drink transportation. As well as being durable enough to get knocked around in a pack, not one leak or dribble gets past its sealing lid, even when turned upside down, and it keeps contents hot for hours on end – for those reasons, we think it’s the best travel mug for walking and hiking. 

If you're more of a tea drinker, you'll be pleased to hear it also comes with a tea hook for holding bags and loose-leaf infusers, so char lovers needn’t feel left out. 

4. Mighty Mug Go - The Travel Mug That Won't Fall Over (0.47 Litre), Red

Touted as the world’s first unspillable travel coffee mug, we’re almost disappointed that the Mighty Mug Go makes good on its promise – many have tried, King Arthur-like, to be the ones to knock it over, but none have succeeded. 

As such, it’s amazingly good for bumpy car rides or for use in the vicinity of excitable children. It won’t keep your tea or coffee as hot as other mugs will, but for a caffeine injection on short trips, that you won’t accidentally elbow over while rifling through your bag, it’s a winner. 

5. Double Y 500ml Insulated Vacuum Flask

For when only a half-litre of coffee will do, we present this 500ml insulated vacuum flask from Double Y. That’s just shy of a whole pint, which should keep you going all day - and it’ll stay hot (or cold, if that’s what you’re aiming for) for eight whole hours.

The flask is made from stainless steel and is available in four different colours; red, black, champagne gold, and blue. The mug’s screw lid mechanism is claimed to be unique, and guarantees a completely leak-free design. It is also designed to be spill-proof and usable with one hand.

6. Corkcicle Tumbler 355ml

If you're looking for a compact travel mug, this 355ml tumbler from Corkcicle is the one for you. It's perfect for enjoying your morning coffee, and includes a clear, sliding spill-resistant lid so you can take it on the go, wherever you go. It's ideal for lattes, hot tea, milk, mixed drinks and more. It features triple insulated stainless steel, which can keep your drinks cold for nine hours or hot for three hours.

7. Contigo Byron Travel Mug

Measuring in at almost 600ml, this stainless steel travel coffee mug by Contigo is huge, and represents great value for money. Not only does it have a larger capacity than most, but it also claims to keep hot drinks hot for seven hours, and cold drinks cold for 20 hours.

A unique leak-proof lid presents any scolding spillages, and a reservoir spout is claimed to offer more flow control while pouring, and releases more of the drink’s aroma. The lid pivots back for easy cleaning, and is dishwasher-safe.

The two colour option son offer are ‘Vivacious’ - a red/pink metallic - and ‘Monaco’, which we’re going to call blue. 

8. Luckyberg Insulated Vacuum Travel Mug

This large 480ml insulated travel coffee mug is claimed to keep your hot drinks hot - or cold drinks cold - for up to size hours, thanks to its double-waller, vacuum-sealed construction. The mug is also claimed to be truly leak-proof, and has a BPA-free lid and food-grade steel construction, so there’s no chance of chemicals working their way into your drink.

Although boasting a large capacity, this mug is tall and thin, so should fit in most car cup holders - as well as the drinks pouches of backpacks - without a problem.

A touch stainless steel body means it should hold up well no matter where you take it.

9. The Rice Way Travel Mug

Their marketing materials might be incredibly over-the-top (you’re probably not going to get radiation sickness from a ceramic mug), but The Rice Way have a right to be smug. 

This eco-friendly reusable coffee cup doesn’t just keep your coffee hot without burning your hands, it’s also fully biodegradable and made from renewable rice husk, a by-product of processing rice. If you like to do your bit for the environment or would rather avoid BPA-containing plastics, give this a go. 

10. Kooyi Vacuum Insulated Travel Coffee Mug

With its sleek design and range of unexpected colours – there’s no silver in sight, and we’re especially taken with the jet black option. This is a travel coffee mug that both looks the part and does the job. 

The flip-up one-handed opening is helpful for on the go, and the safety locking mechanism guarantees it leak-proof, even when chucked in a bag. If you are looking for a travel mug to use in the car whilst driving, this is the one.

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Alistair is a freelance automotive and technology journalist. He has bylines on esteemed sites such as the BBC, Forbes, TechRadar, and of best of all, T3, where he covers topics ranging from classic cars and men's lifestyle, to smart home technology, phones, electric cars, autonomy, Swiss watches, and much more besides. He is an experienced journalist, writing news, features, interviews and product reviews. If that didn't make him busy enough, he is also the co-host of the AutoChat podcast.

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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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16 best flasks and travel mugs that will keep drinks hot (or cold) for hours

Enjoy a hot or cold beverage wherever you travel, with these best-rated flasks and insulated mugs, article bookmarked.

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If you can’t stand your tea being tepid or your water turning lukewarm, an insulated flask could be the answer. Whether used during the commute, long car journeys or nippy outdoor trips, some flasks will keep your beverages hot for 24 hours or more, while others can manage until lunchtime.

When it comes to choosing the best flask for your needs, think about the size, and whether you’re more likely to use it for hot or cold beverages. Water bottle -style vessels are best for chilled drinks, while travel mugs are better for taking quick sips of coffee . Then there are the more capacious flasks that tend to come with a cup for leisurely mugfulls of teas and soups.

Ultimately, what makes a flask worth your money is it’s ability to slow down heat transfer – either in or out – via a layer of almost airless space sandwiched between the flask’s inner and outer walls.

You may also want to consider helpful features that set one flask apart from the next, whether that’s carry-loops and handles, clever mouthpieces and incorporated cups, and even self-cleaning technology.

Keep reading to find out which flasks impressed us the most.

Related stories

How we tested the best flasks.

First and foremost, flasks had to keep drinks hot or cold as promised, to make it onto our list. We assessed the brands’ claims by filling the flasks with boiled water (or iced water), and drank from them after a number of hours, to see if the temperature had held. We also considered how easy the flasks were to use and any design features that made them a joy to drink from, as well as mouthpieces, lids, handles and more. Generally, they had to be leak-proof – although, there are a couple of entries that aren’t, but more on that later.

The best flasks for 2024 are:

• Best flask overall – Thermos superlight drinks flask, 470ml: £14.50, Amazon.co.uk
• Best compact flask with a cup – Lifeventure TiV vacuum flask, 700ml: £22.99, Lifeventure.com
• Best for style – Stanley quencher H2.0 flowstate tumbler, 1.2l: £37.39, Amazon.co.uk
• Best insulated mug – Hydro Flask coffee mug, 354ml: £28.95, Amazon.co.uk
• Best high-tech flask – Larq bottle purevis, 500ml: £99, Livelarq.com

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Thermos superlight drinks flask

• Best : Flask overall
• Material : 18/8 food grade stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 0.21kg
• Capacity : 470ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for 10 hours, cold for 24 hours
• Dishwasher safe : No
• Looks great
• Light and compact
• Not everyone will like the mouthpiece for hot drinks

There’s so much to like about this little flask from Thermos. On first impressions, it has a sleek, simple look to it – it’s slim, compact, and the lightest of all of the flasks we tried, making it ideal for taking it with you on the go.

There’s a little button that releases the lid, so opening the flask is a breeze, and the mouthpiece is one of the best (if not the best) we tried – wide and curved, for effortless, comfortable sipping.

When it came to the temperature test, our water was still chilled after a full 24 hours, as promised. Meanwhile, coffees and teas were still piping hot after 10 hours, so rest assured this flask will keep drinks toasty until the commute home.

Lifeventure TiV vacuum flask

• Best : Compact flask with a cup
• Material : 18/10 stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 445g
• Capacity : 700ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for more than eight hours, cold for 24 hours
• Slim and very portable
• Brilliant temperature retention
• The cup is fairly small

This 700ml flask boasts all the perks of a larger option while stripping away the extra bulk. With a copper coating to improve heat preservation, it boasts the ability to keep drinks hot for up to eight hours. Impressively, we found ours was still nice and warm after around 20 hours, which is pretty good going. Equally impressive was the flask’s ability to keep drinks chilled – there were still ice cubes in our cold water after 24 hours.

Should you prefer sipping hot tea and coffee from a cup rather than straight from the flask, this is a brilliant, compact choice. Unscrew the flask’s lid and it becomes a cup, although, admittedly, quite a small one, so you will probably need to fill it a few times to quench your thirst.

The flask isn’t dishwasher safe but this is a minor annoyance with an otherwise very efficient and purse-friendly piece of kit.

Stanley quencher H2.0 flowstate tumbler

• Best : For style
• Material : 90 per cent recycled 18/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 635g
• Capacity : 1.2l
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for seven hours, cold for 11 hours
• Dishwasher safe : Yes
• Ergonomic handle
• Fits into some car cup-holders
• Not leak-proof

The unlikely product to have taken TikTok by storm, Stanley’s quencher flowstate can barely stay in stock. But is it worth the (considerable) splurge? Boasting a 1.2l capacity, the reusable tumbler keeps cold drinks chilled for up to 11 hours (or two days when iced). We tested these claims with an ice-cold smoothie, which stayed deliciously chilled. The ergonomic handle adds to its ease of use, while the narrow base that fits some (but not all) car cup-holders is a nice touch.

Though it’s easy to switch between the three lid positions, the full-cover top failed to pass the leak-proof test. This completely rules out the quencher in terms of carrying it loose in a bag, which is quite a big drawback, considering the price. There’s also no denying it’s heavy, and the sheer size of the thing is slightly impractical for lugging around a city during the commute. But, when working from home, we appreciated the large capacity, as it helped boost our water intake (the colours are pretty, too).

Le Creuset travel mug

• Best : Small flask
• Material : Stainless steel
• Weight : 140g
• Capacity : 350ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for six hours, chilled all day
• Small and compact
• Looks smart
• Takes force to open and close

The smallest of the flasks we put to the test is Le Creuset’s travel mug – a smart, compact and robust choice from the cookware brand. Although, the lid does take a bit of force to open and close, which might be a deal-breaker for some. It closes with a reassuring snap, though, so we felt confident it wouldn’t leak a drop. Despite the brand not specifically describing the flask as leaf-proof, we found it didn’t leak at all while we were putting it to the test.

It has a simple, utilitarian look to it, with a nice metallic finish, incorporating the signature Le Creuset three-ring design, while the lid sports the brand’s bright volcanic orange hue (the flask is also available as blue or red versions). We also liked that it’s been designed with a rubbery base, which ensures it won’t clang when you set it down.

There’s no knocking its heat retention, either, as this little flask kept drinks piping hot after six hours. Meanwhile, cold water stayed lovely and chilled all day long.

Stanley adventure to go bottle

• Best : Sturdy design
• Material : 8/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 512g
• Capacity : 750ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for 20 hours, cold for 25 hours (four days when iced)
• Dishwasher safe : Unspecified
• Robust design
• Matte finish
• Splashy if you don’t unscrew the stopper enough

While this is a strapping flask from Stanley, it looks more streamlined and contemporary than the drinkware veteran’s classic designs. It’s a good size, but doesn’t feel overly bulky, and it promises to keep drinks hot for up to 20 hours, and cold for 24. Happily, these claims stood up during testing.

The lid doubles as an insulated cup, and, while it’s modestly sized, we think it’s big enough. There’s no chance of spills, as you might expect from a screw-in stopper, while little gaps in the stopper mean you can pour without having to unscrew it all the way. It’s a sturdy flask that gets the job done.

Thermos stainless steel king flask

• Best : Flask with a cup
• Material : 18/8 food grade stainless steel
• Weight : 650g
• Capacity : 1,200ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for 24 hours, cold for 24 hours
• Twist and pour stopper
• Collapsible handle
• Cup included
• The cup can get hot in your hands

As Thermos has become synonymous with insulated flasks, naturally, the supersize “steel king” was going to be pretty hard to beat. It has a whopping 1.2l capacity, and we were genuinely quite stunned by how hot it kept our water over 24 hours. Most of the ice in our cold drink was still solid after 24 hours, too – you could fill your Thermos in the morning and it will still be refreshingly cool the following day.

It’s sturdy but surprisingly lightweight for its size, and the handle, which is collapsible (to save on space), helps with one-handed carrying and pouring. Everything about the steel king feels exceptionally well-made – from the thick-rimmed stainless steel cup (which doesn’t have a handle but is still nicely capacious) to the twist and pour stopper. Our one quibble would be the stainless steel cup can feel hot in your hands when the liquid inside is especially scorching. However, never having to completely remove the screw cap before pouring will make for smoother al fresco pit stops. A classic for a reason, we can’t knock it.

Ocean Bottle flask

• Best : Environmentally conscientious flask
• Material : 90 per cent recycled stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, silicone rubber and ocean-bound plastic
• Weight : 320g
• Capacity : 500ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for six hours, cold for six hours
• Conscientious choice
• Versatile mouthpiece
• Carry loop for portability
• The mouthpiece can drip momentarily after the lid is removed

A conscientious choice when it comes to the materials used and environmental impact, this insulated flask from Ocean Bottle is largely made up of recycled stainless steel and ocean-bound plastic. On top of this, the brand says buying one bottle will fund efforts to prevent the equivalent of 1,000 plastic bottles from ending up in the ocean as plastic waste – so you can feel genuinely good about buying this one.

Water, coffee and even thicker smoothies and soups aren’t off limits, thanks to the bottle-esque mouthpiece – although, we did find the mouthpiece can momentarily drip slightly once the lid has been removed.

Easy to grab, owing to the flexible carry loop, you can unscrew the larger lid for cleaning and chucking in ice. Our drinks were still impressively hot after six hours and refreshingly chilled after the same amount of time – cold enough that some of the ice we dropped in there was still intact.

Hydro Flask coffee mug

• Best : Insulated mug
• Material : 18/8 Pro-Grade Stainless Steel, BPA free
• Weight : 317g
• Capacity : 355ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Up to four hours
• Versatile lid and mouthpiece

Sometimes, it just feels better to drink from an actual mug than a flask – particularly when you’re not actually heading into the wild, but sitting at your desk, wanting your tea or coffee to stay hot for a few hours longer.

This insulated mug isn’t leak-proof, so you won’t be carrying it around in your bag, but if you tend to forget about your cups of tea until they’ve turned tepid, it’s ideal. The matte finish is nice in the hand, and while the brand doesn’t specify for how long it should keep drinks hot or cold, our boiled water was still fairly hot after four hours, which is all you really need for a tumbler like this.

When it came to ease of use, the lid can be placed on at any angle, and the mouthpiece slides open and close easily. The mouthpiece can also be removed completely, if you’d prefer to drink straight from the mug.

Yeti 18oz bottle with hotshot cap

• Best : Mid-sized coffee flask
• Material : 18/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 531g
• Capacity : 532ml
• The hotshot cap allows you to drink at any angle
• It’s not clear when the hotshot cap is closed

This flask is robust enough for outdoorsy excursions, but not so bulky that you wouldn’t reach for it for everyday use, so it’s a good choice for taking to work, too. While Yeti doesn’t specify a maximum heat retention time, we found that our water was still hot after 24 hours, while some of the ice in our cold water managed to survive for just as long.

Everything from the matte surface to the range of fun colours on offer suggests high-quality materials. We are also big fans of the aptly named hotshot cap, which, once swivelled to one side, will let you sip from any angle. However, something to remind us whether or not the swivel mechanism had been ‘closed’ would have been really helpful.

What we consider to be the perfect amount of liquid flows through at the perfect speed (although this will be quite subjective) and the hotshot cap didn’t let us down when it came to being completely leak-free.

Ohelo tumbler

• Best : Flask with a strainer
• Material : 18/8 stainless steel, lead- and BPA-free
• Weight : 245g
• Capacity : 400ml
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for six hours, cold for 12 hours
• Strainer works well
• Variety of colourways
• No indication of when the lid is closed
• Taking it apart for cleaning is a little fiddly

A perk of Ohelo’s tumbler is the strainer, which we found worked well with our loose-leaf tea, but keep in mind you can’t easily remove the tea leaves on the go. Still, you could also use it for fruit infusions or lumpy protein shakes. To drink, you just need to twist the lid until it clicks into place, letting you know it’s open. The lid proved to be leak-free, and it’s quite helpful that you can take sips from anywhere around the lid, rather than just one mouthpiece.

The lid needs to be taken apart to be cleaned, and putting it back together is a little fiddly, but we got the hang of it. As for heat retention abilities, this little tumbler performs brilliantly – hot water was still impressively hot after six hours, and chilled after 12.

Klean Kanteen insulated TKPro

• Best : Plastic-free flask
• Material : Stainless steel and silicone and 18/8 food-grade stainless steel interior, BPA-Free
• Weight : 620g
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for 28 hours, cold for 90 hours when iced
• Dishwasher safe : No, hand wash recommended
• Plastic-free
• Large cup included

Sleek and plastic-free, this flask from Klean Kanteen is an efficient and eco-conscious choice. While not quite as capacious (750ml) as the flasks from Thermos (£23, Amazon.co.uk ) and Zwilling (£31.95, Zwilling.com ) despite its fairly bulky design, it’s still going to be an excellent choice for bringing on longer outdoor adventures.

It performed ludicrously well when it came to preserving drink temperatures – our hot water was piping hot after 28 hours. We were dubious about claims that it could keep iced water iced for 90 hours, and were flabbergasted to find it does exactly that (yes, really, almost four days).

Leakproof and cleverly designed, the flask features a twist-and-pour cap, which can be poured from any angle – while slightly splashy if you don’t open it enough (or indeed too much), this is a really nifty way to save time and prevent some of the heat from escaping.

We loved how capacious the stainless steel lid was (216ml), and appreciated the wide mouth for comfortable sipping – perfect when you’re gasping for a big cup of tea.

Contigo luxe autoseal travel mug

• Best : Flask for easy, one-handed sipping
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for five hours, cold for 12 hours
• The mouthpiece is convenient
• It’s small and compact

There’s something satisfyingly simple about this travel mug from Contigo. Press the large button on the lid, and your beverage will flow from a hole in the lid. As the flow of liquid is more concentrated than it is from larger mouthpieces, it feels almost similar to a mini vortex, which is fun. Our water was hot after five hours, and cold after 12.

Drinking from this flask is a one-handed operation, as you don’t need to unscrew the lid before taking a sip. The lock on the lid will also prevent the button from being pressed when you don’t want it to be – say, when it’s being pushed up against your laptop in your bag. The flask is also very compact, narrow (making it easy to hold in one hand) and lightweight to carry. It’s a sleek bit of kit when it comes to design as well, with its all-over metallic finish, although there’s a range of other colours to choose from, too.

Larq bottle purevis

• Best : High-tech flask
• Material : Stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 280g
• Max temperature preservation times : Hot for 12 hours, cold for 24 hours
• Dishwasher safe : Bottle is but the cap needs to be hand-washed
• Self-cleaning technology
• Stylish design
• Not recommended for tea and coffee

If you feel uneasy about water quality while travelling, Larq’s self-cleaning water bottle is a high-tech investment that has blazed a trail with its patented UV-C light hidden in the lid, eliminating nearly all (99.9 per cent) of bio-contaminants inside.

Looking a little sci-fi, the flask has a button on the lid, which can be pressed for either a short (one minute) UV-C cycle or you can choose adventure mode (three minutes) for extra peace of mind. Beneath the intimidating tech, though, the purevis is also just an excellent flask – our water remained hot after 12 hours, and there were still cubes of ice in our cold water after 24 hours. Importantly, please note purification will be less effective with ice in the bottle, as this may partially block the UV-C light.

A clean bottle should help to keep that musty bottle smell at bay, and, while we admit we may have been swayed by the knoweldge our water was completely clean, we did find our water tasted fresher for being purified. We liked that the bottle will clean itself automatically every two hours and, unlike the rest of our tech, only needs to be charged every month or so. It is worth noting the brand doesn’t recommend using the bottle for drinks such as coffee and tea.

Chillys series 2 lichen

• Best : Flask for keeping water cold
• Material : Powder-coated stainless steel, BPA-free
• Weight : 390g
• Colour and design variety
• Antimicrobial drinking collar
• Unscrewing the lid can unscrew the drinking collar, causing leaks

Chilly’s has become somewhat synonymous with stylish drinkware – from dreamy ombre to abstract and floral bottles, there are plenty of styles to choose from. While you can use the brand’s insulated bottles for holding hot drinks (ours did a good job of keeping water piping hot for 24 hours) we would say we preferred using ours for keeping drinks cold. Some of the ice in our cold water was still intact after 24 hours and, naturally, the water was refreshingly chilled.

The series two bottles boast an antimicrobial drinking collar, which is dreamy to drink from and can be removed easily when it comes to cleaning the bottle, or dropping in ice cubes. This can sometimes open with the lid when it hasn’t been screwed on tightly enough, though, but the lid itself is completely leak-proof. Plus, the handle on the lid wins major points in terms of portability, while the protective rubber base means you don’t need to worry about making an obnoxious clang when setting down the flask.

Thermos ultimate insulation flask

• Best : Flask for commuting
• Material : Stainless steel with silicone rings
• Weight : 300kg
• Sturdy design
• Lightweight

This is a really solid little Thermos that does pretty much everything you’d ask of a flask. Thermos claims the flask retains temperatures for 24 hours, and it certainly did keep water cold and coffee warm over the full period. We were particularly impressed by how secure the flask felt, and we had no concerns about it leaking while bouncing around in our work bag on the Tube, in the car, or even while cycling, so it’s ideal for commuting.

The silicone rings make the flask feel extra sturdy, which we appreciated when out hiking, but, for most outdoor adventures, we’d probably opt for a flask that has a greater volume. That being said, it’s lightweight and has a decent 500ml capacity, which feels just right for taking tea or coffee into the office.

Partner in Wine wine bottle

• Best : Flask for wine
• Material : Stainless steel and plastic lid, BPA-free
• Weight : Unspecified
• Good choice of colourways
• The mouth of the lid is too narrow fo ice cubes

As photogenic as they come, this insulated flask from Partner In Wine has been purpose-built for keeping your bottle of plonk cool for up to 24 hours. A great purchase if you really resent sipping on ever-so-slightly warm wine during the summer months, this would be perfect for filling up before picnics, festivals and any al-fresco gatherings when you would rather leave the wine cooler at home. It will fit one bottle of wine perfectly, and feels markedly lightweight for a bottle of this size (750ml).

While we weren’t able to test this flask during the summer months, we still found that fridge-chilled wine stayed suitably cold for 24 hours. There’s no chance of vino spillages, either, as we can attest that the lid, which screws on easily and securely, is leak-proof. If you like ice in your wine, it’s worth noting the mouth of the bottle is quite narrow (indeed, wine-bottle narrow), so typical ice cubes won’t fit through.

While the black colour we tested is currently sold out, there are plenty of other dreamy hues to choose from, including soft pastels and all-over stainless steel.

The verdict: Insulated flasks

Sleek, compact and brilliant for sipping on the go, the Thermos superlight drinks flask was the top performer – we can’t recommend it enough for everyday use. We found our water was still piping hot after 10 hours, and it doesn’t hurt that the flask also looks great.

Lifeventure’s TiV vacuum flask also offers excellent value for money, while the Klean Kanteen flask is ludicrously good at keeping drinks hot or cold for many, many hours.

The Ocean Bottle deserves a mention for being so versatile when it comes to carrying cold water and hot drinks as well as thicker liquids such as smoothies and soups, and we love that the brand is built on the premise of protecting the ocean by reducing plastic waste.

Explore the great outdoors in a pair of the best women’s hiking boots or the best men’s hiking boots

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• What to Buy

The 9 Best Travel Coffee Mugs, Tested and Reviewed

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

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Favorite

Factors to consider, other travel coffee mugs we tested, our expertise.

Food & Wine / Hydro Flask

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

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

Best Overall

Yeti rambler 20 oz tumbler.

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

Cons: Be careful: the MagSlider lid isn’t leakproof.

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

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

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

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

Best Insulated

Hydro flask wide mouth flex sip lid bottle.

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

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

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

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

Ello Campy Travel Mug

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

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

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

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

• Volume: 18 ounces 
• Dishwasher-safe: Lid is dishwasher-safe, body is not

Food & Wine / Fran Sales

Best Splurge

Kinto day off tumbler.

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

Cons: This mug is not dishwasher-safe.

This high-end travel mug looks as good as it functions. It aced our usability and leakproof tests: It has a screw-on cap that ensures every drop of liquid stays in the mug (even when holding upside-down and shaking from side to side), and a slim body that's comfortable to hold. We enjoyed drinking from the circular opening of the mug, which allowed us to sip from any angle, though we noted that the flow was a bit fast.

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

• Volume: 17 ounces 
• Dishwasher-safe: No

Best for Car Travel

Bubba envy insulated tumbler.

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

Cons: This mug is not leakproof.

If you’re looking for a reliable, extra-large travel mug, the bubba Straw Envy Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Tumbler might be your best bet. The removable straw is nice for iced coffee, and the size is ideal for a car cup holder. 

The mug is spill-proof in that if you knock it over, the lid won't pop off — but the liquid will come out of the mug. While it's comfortable to hold, the lack of leak protection will certainly make a mess even if it's tipped, let alone knocked over or turned upside down. It should remain upright in your hand or a cup holder only. 

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

• Volume: 24 ounces 
• Lid type: Pop-off lid

Food & Wine / Megan Soll

Best Leakproof

Contigo autoseal west loop vacuum.

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

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

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

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

Food & Wine / Bailey Fink

Best Collapsible

Stojo collapsible coffee cup.

Pros: This compact mug is great for backpacking and travel, or a single-serve drink while on the go. Plus, the sleek design comes in a range of colors.

Cons: It’s not insulated. 

If you’re looking for a compact, lightweight, and convenient travel mug, the Stojo Collapsible Travel Cup With Straw delivers on all fronts. We noted that the leakproof abilities are great, with an easy-to-use tab that creates a tight seal. Pair that with the mug’s sleek design, and you’ve got a winning combination. Whether you’re drinking coffee or a smoothie, simply remove the heat sleeve when you’re done, open the tab, and collapse it down. 

The downside is the Stojo isn’t insulated, though we found it was able to keep an ice-cold drink under 60°F for up to four hours. Because this mug is recommended for camping, the quick cooling time can be an advantage, so you're not sitting around waiting for boiling water to cool.

• Volume: 16 ounces 
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Best Wide Travel Mug

Fellow carter everywhere mug.

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

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

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

Insulation-wise, this mug performed very well with both cold and hot liquids. For cold drinks, the ice didn't melt at all the following day. For hot drinks, the temperature dropped very slowly. Plus, the ceramic interior helped their drinks taste better and ensured the mug didn’t absorb residual odors after washing.

Food & Wine / Bridget Degnan

KeepCup Glass Cup

Pros: This mug is compact, transparent, and lightweight.

Cons: This travel mug is not fully leakproof and cleaning can be difficult as the cork band is tough to remove.

Anyone in the market for a small glass mug might be pleased with the KeepCup Reusable Coffee Cup. Though we appreciated the mug’s overall look, we were disappointed with some aspects of its performance. During testing, liquid dripped out of the mug’s center lid. It wasn’t excessive, but enough that we would be upset if it was coffee dripping on a white dress, for example.  

The good news is this mug retained temperatures for longer than we expected, given its glass construction. But with cold liquids, the mug began to excessively sweat. The only spot where you can hold the mug while it has something hot or cold inside is by the cork band, which is cute aesthetically but makes for difficult hand-washing.

• Lid type: Push-on, push-off lid
• Dishwasher-safe: Lid and cup are dishwasher-safe; cork band is not

Food & Wine / Mary Hodes

We tested 26 popular, top-rated travel coffee mugs. Over the course of 4 weeks, we provided feedback on each travel coffee mug’s sealing capabilities, cold insulation performance, hot insulation performance, and ease of cleaning. In addition to its general design observations, we also paid close attention to insulation, size, and value.

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

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

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

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

Leak-Proof vs. Spill-Proof

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

Care and Cleaning

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

Strong Contenders:

Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug ($29 at Amazon )

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

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

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

RTIC Outdoors Travel Mug ($35 at RTIC )

Kinto Travel Tumbler ($27 at Amazon )

What Didn’t Make the List:

Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug ($25 at Amazon )

Simple Modern Insulated Thermos Travel Coffee Mug ($19 at Amazon )

Brumate Highball ($25 at Brumate )

Swig Life 18oz Travel Mug with Handle and Lid ($40 at Amazon )

Brumate Toddy Bundle 16oz. Travel Mug Set ($70 at Brumate ) 

Klean Kanteen Wide Recycled Insulated Mug ($33 at Klean Kanteen )

Ello Cole Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle ($18 at Amazon )

Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug ($180 at Amazon )

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

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BORN OF OUR HAND BUILT COPPER MUGS,

The handlebend building casts its shadow along our hometown’s main street.  we acquired and remodeled this 1944 pile of bricks with the intention of building community. stop by. sit down, slow down, and share a story or two. the building houses our coffee shop, taproom, coppershop, and twig flower and gift. get the full handlebend experience with our bnb. a newly renovated home just a block away from the handlebend building. .

NOT YOUR AVERAGE MUG

"we can't believe how heavy they are" -marshall, "a great gift for people who love to entertain" -melissa,   "the packaging is a special bonus that anyone would love.", -erika  , "you'll have these mugs for years and years to come.", "you haven't had a mule until you've had one in a handlebend.".

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Mini Magnet

In the days of bachelor pads, college classes, and the trending cocktail of Moscow mules I ordered a set of copper mugs online. Daily we checked the mailbox of our college house; anxiously anticipating the arrival of our mule mugs. I’ve not forgotten the heavy disappointment that accompanied the opening of that long-awaited package. These were anything but the copper mugs we’d hoped for.  We were the proud new owners of a set of highly overrated stainless steel cups, wrapped in a chincy faux-copper coating. I will admit, I praised the company for their free shipping return policy...

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10 Best Travel Mugs in the UK: 2024 Reviews & Top Picks

Travel mugs need to be comfortable to hold, cool to the touch, and they should be insulated, at least to some extent, to ensure that your drink retains its heat or stays cold. Not only are they beneficial for making drinks at home for the commute to work, but they are a more environmentally friendly alternative to using disposable cups from coffee shops and takeaways.

Below are 10 reviews of the best travel mugs in the UK, including a range of sizes and other features, so that you can find the best mug to hold your favourite drink and keep it fresh.

• A Quick Comparison of Our Favourites (Updated in 2024)

The 10 Best Travel Mugs in the UK:

• 1. Thermos Stainless Steel King Travel Mug – Best Overall

Thermos has a long history of manufacturing insulated flasks that are useful for travelling, hiking, camping, and other occasions when you need to keep a drink at its desired temperature, so it’s not surprising to find that they also make a range of similarly insulated travel mugs. The Thermos Stainless Steel King Travel Mug has a stainless-steel interior and exterior and Thermos claims that it will keep drinks hot for up to 9 hours. It is compatible with single serve drinks machines and has a tea hook that will hold tea bags and most loose-leaf tea infusers.

It’s around the average price, comes in a variety of colours, and has a handle for easier holding. It is quite heavy, although this is to be expected from a stainless-steel construction, and the lid is designed in such a way that it is difficult to clean properly. However, it is leak-proof and does an excellent job of keeping drinks hot, so it is our choice as the best available travel mug in the UK.

• Stainless steel interior and exterior keeps drinks warm for up to 9 hours
• Leakproof design avoids any accidental spills
• Handle is supportive and strong, making it comfortable to hold
• Difficult to clean thoroughly
• Heavy because of the amount of stainless steel
• 2. Luckyberg Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug – Best Value

The Luckyberg Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug is an inexpensive travel mug that is made using a combination of stainless steel and polypropylene plastic. It has a double-wall, stainless-steel design that will keep drinks hot for up to 6 hours. The double-walled design means that there is a small gap between the interior and exterior layers, reducing the heat that transfers to the exterior of the mug. While your drink might be boiling hot, the outside should stay cool and safe to touch.

The mug doesn’t have a handle but should fit in standard cup holders and has a leakproof design. It’s also one of the cheapest mugs on the list, which when combined with the double-walled design and ability to keep drinks warm for 6 hours, makes it our choice as the best travel mug in the UK for the money.

• Double-walled design means the outside stays cool while drinks stay warm
• Keeps drinks hot for up to 6 hours
• Tricky to clean
• 3. S’Well Stainless Steel Traveller – Premium Choice

The S’Well Stainless Steel Traveller is a 470 millilitres travel mug or flask. It has a wide mouth design, which means that it is not only suitable for cold and hot drinks, but it is easy to fit ice in the neck. It is made from stainless steel and has a triple-walled design. This helps maintain the temperature within the flask while preventing heat transfer to the exterior.

It doesn’t have a handle included, although one can be bought separately, the cup is expensive, but it promises to keep drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold for up to 24 hours. It is leak proof but as well as being expensive, the mug has a rubber lid seal and this can transfer to the liquid inside, especially if you’re carrying a hot coffee or tea for several hours.

• Keeps drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold for up to 24
• Triple-walled design means exterior never gets too hot
• Leakproof design
• Rubber smell can transfer to the drinks
• 4. Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug

The Stanley Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug is a modestly priced travel mug with a 470-millilitre capacity made from durable and insulating stainless steel. It has a double wall design so stays cool to the touch while keeping drinks hot for up to 7 hours. The lid has a trigger action for opening and drinking, which means that it can be used with one hand, and its tall design means that it will fit in most cup holders. It is spill proof, and, unlike a lot of designs, where the lid has to be hand washed, Stanley says that the Classic Trigger Action Travel Mug’s parts are all dishwasher safe and can be placed in the top rack for convenient cleaning.

There is no handle, presumably because that would prevent its use in cup holders, and it does leak from the trigger button if you try to pour from the mug into another receptacle.

• Trigger action lid makes one-handed use possible
• All parts are dishwasher safe
• Slim enough to fit in cup holders
• Trigger button leaks if you try to pour drinks out
• 5. Zojirushi Stainless Steel Non Stick Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug

The Zojirushi Stainless-Steel Non-Stick Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug is a large stainless mug with a 600-millilitre capacity, which should have enough capacity to sate the desire of even the heartiest coffee drinker during their morning commute. Despite its size, which also makes it more expensive than most other mugs available, it is conveniently shaped so it will fit in bags and rucksacks.

It has a leakproof design, but it may prove too bulky for those looking for a mug-sized travel mug, and its size means that it does cost more than most. The flask can keep drinks hot for up to 12 hours, although this does depend on the amount inside the mug. The more hot liquid that is in it, the longer it will stay hot.

• Holds up to 600 millilitres, which is a large coffee shop drink size
• Surprisingly light considering its size
• May be too bulky for some
• More expensive than others, although this is larger
• 6. Corkcicle Travel Mug

The Corkcicle Travel Mug is a 475-millilitre travel mug with a triple-walled stainless-steel body that keeps drinks hot for 3 hours and cold for 9 hours. The lid is spill proof and shatterproof and has a sliding mouthpiece that is easy to operate. The lid is dishwasher safe, and the silicone base ensures that the cup won’t slip even when you’re driving or on the move, but the silicone base does mean that the cup itself shouldn’t be placed in the dishwasher.

It is on the upper end of the price range for a travel mug and although a 3-hour limit for keeping drinks hot will be enough for most morning commutes, it is much lower than the times promised by manufacturers of competing travel mugs.

• Sliding mouthpiece is easy to operate
• Triple-walled design means the outside remains safe to touch
• Silicone base prevents slipping
• Quite expensive
• Only claims to keep drinks hot for 3 hours
• 7. Contigo Byron Thermal Mug

The Contigo Byron Thermal Mug is a 470-millilitre capacity travel mug that uses a double-wall design, so drinks stay hot but the outside stays cool. Contigo claims that the mug will keep hot drinks hot for up to 6 hours, which is about average and certainly better than some.

It will also work to keep cold drinks cold, maintaining cold temperatures for up to 12 hours. The lid is dishwasher safe although the mug body should be hand washed, and the easy-open lid and convenient size of the mug means that it is suitable for one-handed use and for both left-handed and right-handed users. It is also reasonably priced and doesn’t leak liquid.

The drinking hole is quite small, which means that it can be difficult to get a decent mouthful of your drink and it is too wide to fit in most cup holders.

• Easy one-handed operation
• Lid is dishwasher safe
• Drinking hole is small
• Too wide for cup holders
• 8. Contigo West Loop Autoseal Thermal Mug

The Contigo West Loop Autoseal Thermal Mug is a stainless-steel mug with double-wall vacuum insulation. The mug stays cool while keeping your drink hot for up to 5 hours or cold for up to 12 hours. The lid hinges completely open and can be removed. It is dishwasher safe, although the body does need to be hand washed. The cup is designed to be comfortable to hold and difficult to drop, and its dimensions mean that it will fit easily in most cup holders.

It is on the expensive side and the 5-hour maximum insulation is less than most but being able to put the lid in the dishwasher is convenient, and the push button opening mouthpiece means that the mug can be used one-handed. However, you do need to take care when removing the lid for washing because the spring mechanism can fall out and is difficult to replace properly.

• Fits in cup holders
• Cup stays cool to the touch even with hot drinks in
• Lid mechanism is fragile
• 5-hour insulation time is less than other travel mugs
• 9. Contigo Luxe Autoseal Travel Mug

The Contigo Luxe Autoseal Travel Mug is another travel mug from Contigo. This one is smaller than the West Loop above, having a 360-millilitre capacity, but that also means that it is more compact and easier to carry around. It is also small enough to fit in cup holders and other holders. The lid hinges open and can be removed and safely put in the dishwasher, although the rest of the mug needs to be hand washed to prevent the coating coming off the outside.

The Contigo claims to keep hot drinks hot for 5 hours and cold drinks cold for 12 hours, which is less than a lot of companies but seems a realistic time. It also has a one-touch mouthpiece so can be used one-handed by left- or right-handed drinkers. Considering its smaller size, the Contigo Luxe Autoseal Travel Mug is pricier than most and the button does cause a few drops of your hot beverage to spill out when pressed.

• Compact size means it is convenient
• Push button mouthpiece tends to spray a few drops of drink
• Expensive for its size
• 10. Mighty Mug Go

The Mighty Mug Go is a modestly priced travel mug with a standard, 470-millilitre capacity. Rather than being made from stainless steel, it is constructed from BPA-free plastic. It has a double-walled construction which does prevent the outside from getting too hot to hold but you can still feel the warmth through the cup.

The Mighty Mug Go’s main feature is that it has a suction cup on the bottom of the base, which means that it cannot be knocked over. It isn’t leak proof, however, and the suction cup prevents it from being used in a cup holder or other holder. It also struggles to keep drinks hot for longer than an hour or so. Although that may be enough for your daily commute, it is still a lot shorter than other mugs.

• Suction cup prevents it from being knocked over
• Double-walled construction means it is safe to hold
• Not leak proof
• Only keeps drinks hot for about an hour
• Suction cup means it won’t fit in cup holders

Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Travel Mug in the UK

Travel mugs are ideal for your morning commute, when on any long drive, or for out walking. They also make a great replacement for disposable cups from coffee shops and cafes. They are more expensive than standard mugs , but good ones can also keep drinks hot or cold for several hours and usually come with a leakproof design that means you won’t spill your drink.

Design features to consider include the material the mug is made from, the thickness and number of insulating layers, and the type of mouthpiece or lid it has. Below are some of the most commonly seen features.

The majority of travel mugs are made from stainless steel. Stainless steel is safe, does not impart any flavour or aroma in the drink, and it does a good enough job of insulating drinks. It is also durable and relatively lightweight. Some mugs may use plastic because it is cheaper and has some insulating properties, but if this is the case, you need to ensure that it is BPA-free plastic.

It is also worth considering that while the cup itself is likely made from stainless steel, other materials will be used in the construction of the lid and the seals. Rubber lids may impart a flavour, especially on hot drinks that are close to the rubber itself, so watch out for this.

• Double-Walled Designs

Stainless steel transfers heat, which means that a hot liquid touching a single piece of stainless steel causes the metal to get really hot. For this reason, and for extra insulation, most travel mugs use a double-walled design. In this design, there are two layers of stainless steel with a small gap between them. This prevents the exterior layer from getting hot so you can still hold the mug even when it is filled with piping hot coffee. A limited number of travel mugs offer triple-walled insulation, although this is unnecessary in most cases.

The capacity of the travel mug you want will depend on how much you typically drink. As a guide, standard or medium takeaway coffees are usually 340 millilitres, while large are 454 millilitres. Because of these sizes. Most mugs will either hold 360 millilitres or 470 millilitres, allowing enough room for the drink with a little bit spare. There are some giant drinks mugs that hold as much as 600 millilitres, although these are more like flasks with a drinking spout or mouthpiece to drink directly from. The capacity not only affects the volume of liquid that the mug will hold, but how well it retains heat and the chances of it fitting in a cup holder or other holder.

• Size and Shape

The size and shape of a mug are determined by its capacity, first and foremost, but the shape and whether it will fit in a cup holder depends on the cup’s dimensions. Most small travel mugs, with a 360-millilitre capacity, should fit in a cup holder. Those that hold 600 millilitres are unlikely to fit and may get in the way of driving even if they will fit in the holder. Some medium-sized mugs with a 470-millilitre capacity will fit, while others will not. If you are buying a travel mug for your morning commute, try to ensure that the mug you choose will fit in the holder.

• Handle or No Handle

As well as the dimensions of the mug, the inclusion of a handle will also determine whether a mug fits in the cup holder of your car. A handle will usually prevent a cup from sliding into the holder. If you’re looking for a cup that you can take to work or on a walk or use while camping or having a picnic, a handle might be convenient. If you’re using the cup while driving, a handle is unlikely to be a good choice, ignoring the fact that a mug without a handle isn’t really a mug.

• Mouthpiece Opening

Another feature that is essential to a container being called a mug is that it must be possible to drink directly from it in contrast to a flask which is more often used to hold a drink but to be poured into another container. The mouthpiece of a travel mug is important. It should be sealed when not in use, preventing spills, but it should be easy enough to open and convenient to drink out of. Some are designed to be opened and closed with your thumb, which means that they offer one-handed use. Others are more complicated and might require the use of two hands to open the mouthpiece.

• Effective Insulation Period

The quality of the stainless steel, how many walls the mug has, and the dimensions of the cup determine how effective it is at insulating the liquid inside. Some mugs claim to keep hot drinks hot for up to 6 hours, with a select few offering 12 hours of heat. Because it is easier to keep cold liquid cold, mugs will usually claim twice this period for keeping cold beverages at a reasonable temperature. Most people use travel mugs for driving to work, and while it is tempting to opt for the mug with the highest time, it may not be necessary in most instances.

Travel mugs are a great way to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold, especially useful during the commute to work, while outdoors, or when working and you can’t get to a kettle or drinks dispenser. They also make a good, reusable, and environmentally friendly alternative to the disposable cups that you get from coffee shops, cafes, and takeaways.

While compiling the reviews above we found the Thermos Stainless Steel King Travel Mug to be the best available travel mug in the UK. As well as being the only one that has a handle as standard, it is leakproof and keeps drinks hot for up to 9 hours, although the handle does mean it is unlikely to fit in most cup holders. The Luckyberg Vacuum Insulated Travel Mug is not only cheaper than the Thermos and other travel mugs on our list, but it does fit in cup holders and still keeps drinks hot for up to 6 hours.

Featured Image Credit: Nataliia Martseniuk, Shutterstock

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$ 54.95 $ 0.00

The original moscow mule mug with collector's box.

A classic Moscow Mule mug for cocktail lovers

Excellent Taste 

THE ORIGINAL MOSCOW MULE MUG WITH COLLECTORS BOX

This one is for the connoisseurs, the dedicated home bartenders, and the classic cocktail enthusiasts. Choose between a hammered copper mug for a textured, historic look, or go for our smooth, polished finish for a more modern style. Then, choose to leave it as-is or add personalized engraving to set it apart with a name or in honor of a celebration.

However you choose, the 100% copper mug is unlined, with no artificial lacquers, and crafted with an eye to traditional quality, including a heavy-gauge handle. It makes for a gorgeous addition to the bar cart or a beautiful gift for a discerning recipient.

WHAT'S INCLUDED WITH THIS SET?

Our handsome collector’s set is curated for collections and for gifting. The details of the set help tell the story of our original Moscow Mule mug itself, which comes with:

• 16.9oz. pure copper Moscow Mule mug in your choice of finish and optional engraving
• Wooden collector’s box in sturdy pine with latching lid
• Microfiber bag for scratch-free storage

ABOUT THE ORIGINAL

All of our mugs are beautifully made with your choice of finish and the option for high-quality engraving. Each mug features:

• Your choice of traditional polished or hammered finish
• Optional engraving for permanent personalization
• Traditional craftsmanship with a heavy-gauge handle
• Unlined with no artificial lacquer, nickel, or tin
• 16.9oz capacity for a perfectly balanced drink
• 100% copper, inside and out

The use of pure materials allows every mug to be completely unique. You can allow your mug’s finish to age naturally, with a beautiful patina—or, if you prefer a polished gleam, use a copper cleanser to maintain vibrancy for years to come.

Traditional Craftsmanship   

ABOUT MOSCOW COPPER

We believe that beautifully made barware isn’t a thing of the past. We’ve brought back the Moscow Mule mugs in their traditional state, the same way they were in 1941, when our founder’s great-grandmother, Sophie Berezinski , arrived in America with a dream—and a uniquely designed copper mug made for her by her coppersmith father.

We honor that spirit of entrepreneurship and craftsmanship by making pure copper mugs with heavy gauge handles and old-world quality. So mix up your favorite Moscow Mule (or another refreshing cocktail) and raise a toast to good taste and superior ingredients.

Choose Moscow Copper for incomparable authenticity

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• 5 Stars 49 Reviews
• 4 Stars 2 Reviews
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Beautiful, quality gift. So thankful for the help from the team in getting it shipped to Australia.

Christmas Gift

The mug is awesome. I do not understand what makes the box “collectible” for the additional price.

Absolutely beautiful

It came as the description said. Beautiful and sturdy. I use it daily. The bottom of the cup has spotted a tad after first use, but I expected some changes due to use.

Beautiful and just as described. I really love it.