Happy International Coffee Day – September 29th
Is the GSI Commuter Java Press a piece of camping gear, an essential part of your 72 hour kit, or for everyday use? The answer is yes. If you’re one of those people that appreciates a good cup of fresh coffee, or you simply can’t start your day without one, the Commuter Java Press is for you. As far as I’m concerned, not having fresh coffee available is a disaster itself, and calls for emergency measures.
Luckily, the folks at GSI agree. They designed the Commuter Java Press to be easy to use, easy to clean, and easy to enjoy your favorite roast just about any where and any time. By replacing the plunger rod with an inner mug that has a fine screen in the bottom, you get a French press that is also well-insulated. This is due to effectively creating a double wall bottle. Both the inner and outer are BPA-free, by the way. At 7.8 inches tall, and 3 inches across, it’s sized to fit most cup holders, whether in a vehicle or part of a camp chair. We found that it fits wire bicycle water bottle cages too, but the insulating sleeve and non-slip rubber foot can snag on some cages.
Find the GSI Commuter Java Press on Amazon
Naturally, I was anxious to take the Commuter Java Press for a test ride since I saw one at the January Outdoor Retailer Winter Market show. But it wasn’t until last month that I finally got my hands on one. And it was worth the wait. After giving it an initial wash with some warm soapy water, I was ready for some brewing. While the Commuter Java Press technically has a 16 ounce capacity, it only holds 15 ounces of liquid. So I put three scoops of coffee in (although it only requires two), then carefully added 15 ounces of very hot water. After about 3 minutes (timed via whatever song was on the radio), I slowly pressed the inner mug down. A substantial seal provides a snug fit between the inner and outer pieces, keeping grounds in the bottom, and the coffee in the inner mug. If you encounter resistance, it’s because the lid is sealed, so flip that open when pressing. A ridge on the inner mug will engage the hard rubber seal on the lid of the outer mug when pressing is complete. At that point, you are ready to enjoy a hot cup of coffee. And indeed I did. Note that due to the double wall design, plus insulating sleeve, coffee will still be hot after a couple of hours. Cleanup is as easy as rinsing both parts, and you can even remove the sleeve and throw it in the dishwasher.
GSI Commuter Java Press, ready for actionIf we ever start doing “best of” awards on this site, the Commuter Java Press will certainly earn one, or at least make our list of top ten products. With its MSRP of $19.95, you are getting a coffee making system for not much more than a quality travel mug would cost. You could actually use this as your daily mug, and “press it into service” during emergencies too. Either way, if you’re a fan of the bean, you need one of these. Oh, it’s good for making tea too. gsioutdoors.com
– Brian
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the GSI Commuter Java Press for free from GSI, in consideration for review publication