GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Review

GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso
GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso
Ok, I’m all about roughing it when it comes to camping or hiking in the backcountry, but sometimes it would be nice to indulge in the finer things. And by finer things, I mean a steaming hot cup of espresso in morning after a chilly night under the stars. Lucky for me, GSI Outdoors desired the same thing and created the Mini Espresso! This is the perfect companion for any hiker or camper jonesing for a great cup of café while out on the trail.
The Nitty Griddy for Camping and Backcountry Hiking
The Mini Espresso is smaller than a Nalgene bottle with the dimensions of 5.75″ x 4.5″ x 8.25″. It breaks down into three pieces: the base, filter, and spout, if you would choose to stow separately. The GSI Outdoor Mini Espresso is constructed of Glacier Stainless steel so it can take a beating from the elements time and time again, and still be reliable. It has the capacity to brew four double shot (2.5 fl.oz.) servings in one go, which is really nice for those caffeine gluttons. Depending on how hot your burner or flame is, the GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso only takes a few minutes until you can get your fix.
Bonus Tid-Bits
Anyone worried about there being a metallic taste, don’t be. Give it a good wash before you use it the first time and it should be good to go from there on out. Note: the threads have been greased for easy open/close of the base to the spout, so make sure to scrub that area specifically before making your espresso!

Mini Espresso base and filter with coffee and water.
GSI Outdoors went above and beyond when they added a steel platform for you to rest your cup on as espresso comes out of the spout. It is nice not having to watch and worry about catching the flow of java when it starts to erupt.

About ready to screw on the spout pre brewing.
The GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso can be used on any burner or controlled flame, but do not use it on an open campfire. As you can guess, this steel beauty is pretty hot after its been used, so make sure it cools down before you touch it or try to disassemble. If you don’t, you will remember for the next time!
Lasting Impression on the GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso

Ta-da!!! Steaming espresso!
My overall thought is that any back country hiker or camper should add this piece to their gear collection. The GSI Outdoor Mini Espresso is light enough to throw in your pack for long hauls and provides you with a legit cup of espresso when there’s no Starbucks out on the trail!
Check out the GSI Outdoors website for more info on the Mini Espresso. MSRP is $39.95
If you want to fuel your entire camping crew, check out the GSI Stainless Javapress review