What to Look For in a Travel Mug

What to Look For in a Travel Mug

No one enjoys grabbing a sip of their coffee only to discover it's lukewarm—or worse, ice cold. A reliable travel mug can thwart that flavorless middle zone by keeping your drink at the ideal temperature and away from contaminants. And the best models are sturdy enough to resist spills and drops on even the bumpiest of commutes.

Whether you're an avid coffee drinker or an iced tea enthusiast, there's a travel mug out there for you. The best travel mugs keep hot drinks steamy and iced beverages chilled for hours, so you can be well hydrated no matter where your day takes you. But not all travel mugs are created equal: The most reliable and durable models are made of stainless steel or glass, as they offer the best temperature retention. Plastic mugs, on the other hand, tend to degrade with repeated use.

If you want a mug that's easy to clean and that won't leak, consider one with a lid that snaps shut or has a latch. Some travel mugs also come with a straw built into the lid, which can be helpful for those who prefer to sip from the top.

A travel mug's size and aesthetics are also important factors to consider. A slimmer, sleeker design makes it easier to fit in tight spaces and to carry around, while a more colorful model can add a pop of personality to your commute or office space. And while a handle isn't strictly necessary for most travel mugs, the right style can provide a comfortable grip and help prevent burns from hot beverages.

In addition to these practical considerations, there are a few other factors that we looked for when testing the best travel mugs. We tested for durability and quality, including how long the mug kept hot or cold, how easy it was to use and clean, how sturdy the lid was and if it leaked. We also took into account price, as some travel mugs are more expensive than others.

The Stanley Classic Trigger-Action Travel Mug is a good option for those looking for a dependable travel mug that holds a decent amount of liquid and won't spill. Its robust construction and sturdy trigger-action lid ensure it's easy to open and close, and its vacuum insulation keeps hot drinks at their optimal temperature for hours.

It's also BPA-free, which is a good thing because it means you'll be reducing the number of paper, plastic and Styrofoam disposable cups that end up in landfills.

The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug was the most popular and highly-rated travel mug among Wirecutter staff members. Its tough exterior stood up to repeated tumbles in a busy bag and multiple drops onto cement (one of them from a third-floor balcony) with no denting or leaking, and it's available in a wide range of colors and patterns to suit any style. We also like that you can choose from a variety of lid styles, including flip lids, thumb-sliding lids and push-button lids, to find the most convenient fit for your lifestyle.

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