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7 Best Travel Coffee Mugs

I'm like everyone else in the way that sometimes I'm just dragging in the morning and I get a late start. This means I can't sit and enjoy my coffee before starting my day.

These days are the ones that I need a good travel mug so I can take my coffee with me on the go! With so many options to choose from, though, it can be hard to decide.

So, here's the deal:

We've put together a little list of the 7 best travel coffee mugs so you can have an easier time choosing one.

Before we start, you should know that you can find all of these travel mugs on Amazon and they have decent reviews.

OUR TOP PICK

Contigo AUTOSEAL West Loop Vaccuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug, 16  oz, Monaco

Ready to be able to have coffee on your way to work? Want to be able to drink it while on long trips?

If so, then our top pick, Contigo AUTOSEAL, is great for you! With the variety of colors, you can drink your delicious coffee while showing off your favorite hue!

Best Travel Coffee Mugs 2020 - Top 7 Reviews

Since we understand that people are busy and might not have time to read an entire article, we made a table that highlights the most important parts of each mug.

Amazon Product
Contigo AUTOSEAL
  • Capacity: Around 2 Cups
  • Retains heat up to 5 hrs
View on Amazon →
Amazon Product
Zojirushi SM-KHE48AG
  • Capacity: Around 2 Cups
  • Retains heat at least 6 hrs
View on Amazon →
Amazon Product
Contigo SnapSeal Travel Coffee Mug
  • Capacity: About 2.5 Cups
  • Retains heat up to 7 hrs
View on Amazon →
Amazon Product
Zojirushi SM-SD60BC Stainless Steel Mug
  • Capacity: Around 2.5 Cups
  • Retains heat up to 6 hrs
View on Amazon →
Amazon Product
Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug
  • Capacity: About 2.5 Cups
  • Retains heat up to 7 hrs
View on Amazon →
Amazon Product
Thermos Stainless King
  • Capacity: About 2 Cups
  • Retains heat up to 7 hrs
View on Amazon →
Amazon Product
CamelBak Hot Cap Travel Mug
  • Capacity: About 2 Cups
  • Retains heat at least 6 hrs
View on Amazon →

Let's delve into the in-depth reviews one by one.

1. Contigo AUTOSEAL - Best of the Best

"With AutoSeal technology, never worry about hot spills again!"

Contigo AUTOSEAL West Loop Vaccuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug, 16  oz, Monaco

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 3.2 x 7.8 x 3.5 inches
  • Item Weight: 11.5 ounces
  • Size: 16 oz

Add a little color to your morning or traveling routine with the Contigo AUTOSEAL travel coffee mug!

While there is a variety of colors, you don't have to worry about the stainless steel chipping or breaking away.

You no longer have to worry about having scolding hot coffee spilled on you or coffee stains in your bag, because this travel mug's lid locks with the push of a button. 

You might think this is awesome, but it gets better: your coffee will stay hot for 5 hours!

Forget about drinking disgusting, cold coffee because this mug will keep it warm and delicious.

As most of us coffee drinkers know, travel mugs can sometimes be hard to clean. You don't have to worry about that with this mug because the lid is one solid piece.

You can toss it right into the dishwasher or sink and not have to worry about losing any pieces!

Finally, it holds around 2 cups of coffee, which should get you energized and ready to take on your day!

PROS

  • It comes in several different color options
  • The lid seals with a press of a button
  • It's very easy to clean

CONS

  • Since it stays hot, you could burn your mouth
  • It might be difficult to drink since the lid doesn't have a lip

What's the Bottom Line?

If you're looking for a travel mug that won't leak or spill, then Contigo AUTOSEAL is your best bet!


2. Zojirushi SM-KHE48AG - Runner Up

"Since it's compact, you can take it anywhere!"

Zojirushi SM-KHE48AG Stainless Steel Mug, 16oz, Smoky Blue

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 2.75 x 2.75 x 9.12 in
  • Item Weight: 9 ounces
  • Made of BPA free plastic

It was a very close call, but the Zojirushi SM-KHE48AG rated as the runner up.

Not only does the stainless steel design ensure you'll have a great tasting sip of coffee every time, but the different color options will bring brightness to your boring day!

You might be wondering: what else makes this travel mug so great?

Well, I'll tell you!

It has a wide opening so you can put full sized ice cubes in to cool off your coffee a bit.

As for spilling and leaking, you won't have to worry because there's a safety lock that won't let the lid flip open and spew steaming hot coffee everywhere!

The fact that the lid comes apart into 3 different pieces means you won't have to worry about any hidden mold or mildew.

You'll get a thorough clean every time! You'll also be able to take it anywhere because it isn't bulky or oddly shaped.

The vacuum seal keeps your coffee hot for at least 6 hours. This, paired with the 2 cup capacity, ensures that you'll be able to enjoy your coffee even if you aren't at your kitchen table!

PROS

  • It has a wide opening for full sized ice cubes.
  • The safety lock prevents spills and leaks.
  • The lid comes apart in 3 pieces for easy cleaning.

CONS

  • The rubber parts can catch smells and flavors.
  • The metal can get a little on the hot side.

What's the Bottom Line?

It's great for anyone looking for a travel mug that keeps their coffee warm while being compact and easily cleaned.


"Never take a cold sip of coffee again!"

Contigo SNAPSEAL Byron Stainless Steel Travel Mug, 20 oz., Gunmetal

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 3.25 x 3.25 x 8 in
  • Item Weight: 11.2 ounces
  • Material type: Stainless Steel

You can be sure to get the energy you need since this mug holds around 2.5 cups of coffee at any given time. In addition, the stainless steel construction means that you'll get the same delicious coffee every time.

As we all know, a metal coffee mug can easily slip out of our hands while driving. This mug prevents that by having a textured hand grip all the way around.

The slim body means you can easily use one hand to drink while focusing on whatever it is you're doing.

The lid comes in 1 piece, so you don't have to worry about losing any pieces.

In addition, the small lid snaps securely closed so you don't have to worry about any accidental spills.

While all this information makes this travel mug a fantastic choice, here's the kicker: it keeps your coffee warm for up to 7 hours! That's almost an entire work day!

PROS

  • The lid snaps closed.
  • It keeps your coffee warm for a long time.
  • The grip helps prevent slipping.

CONS

  • You can't throw the bottom part in the dishwasher the way you can with the top.
  • The lid can end up being too loose after using for awhile.

What's the Bottom Line?

This is a great choice for those who want to keep their coffee hot for long periods of time.


"You'll never have to worry about scrubbing coffee stains again!"

Zojirushi SM-SD60BC Stainless Steel Mug, 20-Ounce, Silky Black

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 2.75 x 2.88 x 9.88 in
  • Item Weight: 20 ounces
  • Made of stainless steel and BPA free plastic

Not only can you choose a color that's great for you, but you'll be able to have around 2.5 cups of piping hot coffee at your fingertips!

The non-stick coating inside means you won't have to scrub stubborn coffee stains and you'll be able to get a thorough clean quickly.

Similar to the other mugs, there is a safety lock so you don't have to worry about any accidental spills or leaks.

The double insulation means that your coffee will stay hot for longer periods of time. In fact, this mug makes it stay hot for up to 6 hours.

You'll also never have to worry about taking a big sip of mold or mildew because the top completely comes apart so you can get a great clean!

The design also means that it's small enough to take anywhere, but wide enough so it won't move around in your cup holder too much.

PROS

  • The lid comes apart completely.
  • You don't have to worry about spills or leaks.
  • The coffee stays hot for up to 7 hours

CONS

  • The outside paint can easily chip off.
  • It could absorb the soap when washed.

What's the Bottom Line?

If you're looking for a mug that's easy to clean and keeps your coffee hot, then this is the one!


"Simple and practical without bells and whistles."

Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug 16oz

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 12 x 4 x 4 inches
  • Item Weight: 14.4 ounces
  • Dishwasher safe

While this mug is simple and traditional, don't let that fool you.

It'll keep your coffee hot for up to 7 hours. You can also say goodbye to leaks because it seals tightly.

Unlike other models, this one has an internal vent to help prevent "glugging." 

This is also part of the reason why it doesn't leak. The vent would be covered by liquid so nothing could escape.

Since the lid comes completely apart, you can feel confident that you gave it a good and thorough cleaning.

The height of this mug also makes it possible to fit in several different places, including the car cup holders and the water bottle holder on a bicycle.

Since it's made of steel, you won't have to worry about any smells or flavors getting trapped in the materials. This is great because none of us want to take a big swig of coffee only to taste something completely different and revolting!

PROS

  • It doesn't absorb flavors or scents.
  • It fits in several different holders.
  • It can be easily cleaned.

CONS

  • The cap breaks after repeated use.
  • The flow of liquid is sometimes slow.

What's the Bottom Line?

Perfect for those that want a simple mug without all the bells and whistles!


"A great mug with a nifty handle!"

Thermos Stainless King 16 Ounce Travel Mug with Handle, Midnight Blue

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.3 x 7.6 in
  • Item Weight: 16 ounces
  • Material type: Stainless steel

This mug comes with a carrying handle so you can easily transport it.

Even with that being the case, it can still easily fit into any cup holder.

The 2 cup capacity means you can have your morning joe regardless of what you're doing. 

The stainless steel construct means you'll have a hot sip of coffee every time. Never worry about drinking cold brew ever again!

It has a sliding lock on top that you can easily move to either open or close the spout. It closes tightly so you don't have to worry about anything get ruined from coffee stains.

In addition, it's easy to clean and doesn't have too many tiny parts where mold can get stuck. Finally, the lip on the cup means you can easily take a drink. It's not too deep or too shallow so you'll get the perfect amount every time you sip.

PROS

  • It has a nice sized lip.
  • It keeps your coffee hot for a long time.
  • It's very easy to clean.

CONS

  • It's hard to unlock with 1 hand.
  • The finish can start flaking off.

What's the Bottom Line?

This is the perfect mug for you if you're looking for something that you can easily transport!


"Unique style with traditional features!"

CamelBak Hot Cap Vacuum Stainless 12oz, Black, Black, 12 Oz

Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 6.14 x 2.91 x 2.91 in
  • Item Weight: 8.6 ounces
  • Dishwasher safe cap
  • 360 degree cap

This travel mug is one of the more unique styles but don't let that turn you away because it still has all the traditional features that people look for.

It comes in a few different colors so you can get the hue that matches your personality. The cap seals by itself so you can be sure that it won't leak after taking your drink.

You can also be confident that your coffee will stay hot for 6 or more hours.

While it doesn't have a handle, it does have a little loop for your finger.

It can hold around 2 cups of fresh, steaming coffee and everything is very easy to clean. Finally, the mug itself is very slim so you can carry it anywhere and be able to fit it into any cup holder.

PROS

  • It keeps coffee warm for 6 or more hours.
  • It's very easy to clean.
  • It seals by itself to prevent spills and leaks.

CONS

  • It only has a small finger loop for holding.
  • It can easily crack after repeated use.

What's the Bottom Line?

If you want something that can easily be taken along, then it's the best choice for you.


Buyer's Guide to Travel Coffee Mugs - 2020 Update

Now that we've looked at 7 of the best travel mugs, we're going to check out a buying guide. 

contigo autoseal new

Whenever I go to buy something that has a huge amount of options, I try to find a good buying guide to help make the decision easier. Hopefully, this will do the same for you!

When it comes to buy a travel coffee mug, there are a few things you want to look at.

Not only will these help you narrow down your options, but you'll know what you're going to get without any unwanted surprises! With that being said, we're going to go ahead and look at the features!

How Long Will my Coffee Stay Hot?

One of the most important aspects of a travel mug is the amount of time your coffee stays hot. Even if you don't need to keep it hot for an entire day, it should stay warm for at least a few hours. 

If you're like me, the last thing you want is to take a big swig of coffee and realize that it's cold and gross!

How Much Can it Hold?

You might be wondering: how much should my travel coffee mug hold? While this is mainly up to you, the average capacity is about 2 cups. This should be enough to get your energy and get you ready for the day. If you need more, though, there are very large mugs that can hold much more.

Will my Travel Mug Leak or Spill?

Next, you want to look at whether or not the mug has a seal to stop leaks or spills. 

While driving, it's easy to hit a bump and send your mug flying. I can't count how many times I've put my coffee mug in my bag and it gets tipped over. Thankfully, the seal stops it from leaking and spilling so none of my stuff ever gets ruined! You definitely don't want to sit down and reach into your bag only to feel that everything is soaked!

Can I Use it with One Hand?

If you ever drink coffee while driving, then you know it's hard to have a cup that requires both hands.

You want to make sure your travel mug can easily be used with just one hand so you can use your other one to stay on the road. You don't want to risk your life for a sip of coffee!

Is it Made with Strong Materials?

We all know that mornings can be hectic and stressful, especially if you get a late start. During these times, it's easy to accidentally knock your mug off the counter or table.

The last thing you want is to knock your mug over right before leaving and have it hit the floor and break into several pieces. Not only does this mean you don't get your coffee, but now you have to take even more time to clean the mess up. You want to make sure that it's made from strong materials, such as stainless steel.

Can I Easily Clean it?

Finally, you want a travel mug that you can easily clean. Not only do you want to make sure you can get the stains out, but you also want to make sure the lid doesn't have any small crevices that can harbor mold or mildew.

You also want to make sure that you can get any previous flavor or aroma out. There's nothing worse than taking a drink of coffee only to taste old and gross flavors.

Now that you know the top 9 travel mugs and a buying guide for them, you should be able to find the best mug for you!

Not only will you be able to take your coffee with you on the go, but you'll be able to have a warm and delicious sip of coffee every single time!

If you're ready for your mornings to be less stressful and easier, then getting a travel coffee mug is great for you!


Dennies John

Dennies is the founder and editor-in-chief of Dripped Coffee. He is a trained barista who knows coffee like the back of his hand. When he's not brewing coffee, you can find him fishing or swimming.

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