These Are the Best Instant Coffees to Wake You up Without Bumming You Out

Sometimes there’s a trade-off when searching for the best instant coffee: Taste in exchange for convenience, flavor, or affordability. But the instant coffee game has seriously upgraded in recent years to meet the needs of café-conscious campers without a coffee maker, on-the-go commuters, or just the average Jane demanding more from her cup of joe.

In addition to the classic “just add hot water” varieties, you can now find instant coffee tucked into tea bags or placed in fold-out pour overs that are the absolute chicest way to enjoy coffee campside. Grocery store favorites are raising the bar with higher-quality brews, while specialty roasters are bringing us single-origin blends in an instant, literally.

After nearly two weeks of caffeine-fueled taste tests by our editors, family, and friends, we rounded up the best brands of instant coffee to make your hassle-free morning brew even better. Our top picks are perfect to take on your next backpacking trip or hiking adventure, or to whip into the infamous Dalgona whipped coffee. Consider this your quick guide to better instant coffee ... that you just might want some extra time to enjoy.