Best Travel Mug Reviews 2019

For many people, life tends to be boring if they can’t bring their coffee to work. For those who do, we can bet they are worried about two things – spilling their beverage and the coffee getting cold! But there’s a good solution to these problems. Just to save you from the hassles of shopping, here’s a helpful review of 5 great mugs by some of the best travel mug brands in the industry.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Type

Insulation

Capacity

Retains Temp

Material/Color

Our Top Choice

LifeSky 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug

With a growing concern about water bottle safety, LifeSky strives to make products that are free from harmful chemicals like phthalates.

It has a leak-proof design meaning there’s no chance of your coffee leaking. The lid is BPA-free and food-grade, making it safe and non-toxic.

Sadly, it might start leaking if you wash it in your dishwasher. It’s not dishwasher safe.

Clip-on lid

Double walled insulation

16oz

8 hours hot

Stainless steel/Champagne

Best Value

Thermos Stainless King™ Travel Mug

Thermos is one of the leading manufacturers of insulated containers for food and beverages.

Has a stainless steel exterior and interior, making it durable and long-lasting. It has a tea hook as well that allows you carry tea bags.

This travel mug is a bit hard to clean and takes a lot of effort to get the inside cleaned.

Tumbler

Double walled insulation

16oz

7 hours hot/ 18 hours cold

Stainless steel/ 7 Colors

RTIC Double Wall Thermal Tumbler

RTIC has established its reputation as one of the top manufacturers of premium products in the industry.

It comes with a narrow and tall design, allowing it to fit more cup holders. The mug is available in four sizes, with 30 ounces being the biggest.

Sadly, it is not dishwasher safe; it is hand-wash only.

Tumbler

Double walled insulation

10oz, 12oz, 20oz, 30oz

12 hours hot/ 24 hours cold

Stainless steel/ 6 colors

Contigo AUTOSEAL West Loop Travel Mug

With products that strive to solve problems for most people, the position of Contigo in the marketplace has solidified over the years.

Comes with sealed leads to ensure the mug is fully spill-proof. Ergonomic design allows you to use the tumbler with just one hand.

With the push button, you have to keep on pushing it for every sip; it’s not open pour.

Clip-on lid

Double walled insulation

16oz, 20oz, 24oz

7 hours hot/ 18 hours cold

Stainless steel/ 13 colors

Simple Modern Insulated Cruiser Tumbler

Simple Modern has a wide selection of sweat-free, powder-coated tumblers and travel mugs that perform as expected.

It has double walled insulation allows you to keep your drinks at their temperature for long, and is designed to be convenient, fitting any normal-sized cup holders.

It doesn’t come with a handle to grip onto, making it hard to carry around.

Tumbler

Double walled insulation

20oz, 30oz

8 hours hot/ 24 hours cold

Stainless steel/ 20 colors

(Updated November 3, 2017)

Skip ahead and go directly to the reviews.

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Watch Our Travel Mug Review

How Do I Choose the Best Travel Mug?

There are times when you feel you can’t function without sipping some coffee or high caffeine tea. Since you can’t keep interrupting your work in the office to make coffee, you need a travel mug that can keep your coffee hot to sip anytime you feel like. And when travelling, you need to keep hydrated to stay focused—a frequent sip of cold water can go a long way. By the way, if you are into iced teas or you simply prefer water over coffee then a glass water bottle might be more suitable for you as it is portable, durable and eye-catching.

While in the office, you don’t want to spill coffee on yourself or on your documents. You thus need a mug that you can carry around and sip from easily. These mugs come in two major types: clip-on lid and tumbler. A mug with a clip-on lid is convenient if you keep moving from one place to another, as it allows you to easily open your mug, take a sip, and close it easily while on the go. On the other hand, the tumbler mug has a tightly sealed cover, ensuring that you never spill your drink, even when you topple your mug accidentally. These mugs are great because they help you save time – you wake up in the morning, get some coffee from the coffee maker and you're on your way! The travel mug will keep your coffee warm and rejuvenating for the rest of the day!

While your mug will hold a considerable amount of coffee, there are times you’ll need to brew some more in the office. To save time you would spend boiling water or leaving the office for a restaurant, why not invest in a good hot water dispenser so that you can get hot water straight to your brew kettle and continue enjoying your coffee?

Don’t forget that you need to keep your mugs clean. Most of them aren’t easy to clean, so to avoid the hassle of cleaning in the office, you can simply throw it in the dishwasher at home or in the office, assuming the one you choose is dishwasher-safe.

Price

Before you buy a travel mug it’s important that you consider the price, though these products are fairly inexpensive. You can expect to spend between $15 and $40. Not only should you go for one that meets your budget, but also one that meets your needs.

But what really determines the price of a good mug? Obviously, you should expect the brand name to influence the price in addition to other factors such insulation, capacity, ability to retain temperature, and material the mug is made of.

Despite price being an important factor to look at when doing your shopping, don’t compromise quality for cost. There are various cheap travel mugs you can go for that still keep your beverages the way you want them, but without the other perks you may find helpful. We’ve already reviewed some of the best for you, so go ahead and make an informed decision.

Features

A travel mug is a very simple item. Ideally, there are a few aspects to consider when buying one.

Here’s what we’re talking about:

Capacity - Travel mugs come in a range of capacities from 16 to 32 ounces.
Temperature Retention - Vacuum seal and double wall are used to retain beverage temperature, so that hot drinks stay hot while cold ones remain cold.
Insulation - A mug with proper insulation helps retain the liquid’s temperature.
Material - The material should be strong enough for durability.
Ergonomic Design - The mug should be narrow and sleek, enabling the user to hold firmly while drinking from the mug.
Leak Proof - Travel mugs need to be tightly sealed to prevent leakage—you don’t want to spill coffee during a presentation.

Construction and Design

Most travel mugs have a similar design. They’re narrow and sleek to allow users to grip them easily and prevent them from dropping, and they also have a wide base that gives them stability and a clip at the mouth piece that opens and closes automatically. However, there are some that require you to push the clip to open and close. They also have double wall insulation that retains liquid temperature.

Since they’re travelling mugs, you’ll need one you can easily fit into the cup holder of your car or the side of your hiking bag. Further, to avoid spilling when you’re walking or driving, they come with a spill-proof design that makes sure your beverage stays doesn’t leak or mess up your clothes or paperwork.

Performance and Ease of Use

To save time and embarrassment, you need a mug that you can easily use on-the-go. For instance, if you want to enjoy some coffee, tea, or water while giving a presentation, you need a mug that you can use with one hand while changing your slides with the other; the one-handed design enables just that. You also need an auto seal design so that you can easily sip your beverage and have the mug close its lid to avoid spillage.

You don’t want a mug that’ll topple when you set it down, which is why a wide base is important. Furthermore, while it’s not advisable to multi-task while driving, there are times that you just need a drink on the road; the slim and sleek design allows you to easily grab your mug from the car cup holder and take a sip.

In performance, a mug that retains your desired beverage temperature is the best. There are mugs that keep tea hot up to 12 hours, but the length of the time depends on the insulation mechanism. This also applies to cold drinks that you wish to keep that way.

What is the Best Travel Mug?

You’ve made a good decision to buy a travel mug. Not only will it save you time, but it will also be convenient when you go on hikes or when working in your office. However, don’t just go for the first one that you come across to avoid disappointment. Our team has carried out extensive research to give you important information on five of the best products from some of the top brands in the industry. This will help you make a wise decision.

Our Top Choice

The LifeSky 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug comes with a double wall and vacuum seal technology, allowing your drink to remain hot for up to 8 hours. Want a travel mug that can hold up to 32 ounces? Check out the LifeSky 32oz Sports Water Bottle and you might like it.

LifeSky 16 Ounce Stainless Steel Insulated Travel Coffee Mug – Available in 2 Colors

LifeSky Travel Mug LS-VC-1129-CHAMPAGNE

Features

LifeSky provides reliable customer service for all its products. It offers quality products that make consumers come back for more benefits. All their bottles undergo a thorough testing process to guarantee longevity and satisfy consumer needs.

The LifeSky 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug is a must-have mug if you want to keep your drinks fresh and hot for long hours. It does this by sucking out all the air, creating a vacuum-like environment between the walls and thus minimizing heat loss. If you like your coffee piping hot so as to enjoy it even after 8 hours, this is the travel mug to buy. Furthermore, you get the convenience of a one-hand operation that works with a button push to open the lid. At its retail price of $36.99, it offers affordability.

Let’s now look at some other features that this travel mug has in store for you.

Built with a vacuum seal that retains the heat of your drink for up to 8 hours
Designed to easily fit in any car cup holder thanks to its sleek and slim build
One-hand operation system that works with the simple push of a button to open the lid
Leak-proof design that has a vertical lid lock to prevent spills
A safe lid made of food-grade stainless steel that is non-toxic
Convenient one-year warranty

Are you looking for a different color? Well, the LifeSky 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug comes in two colors. You can choose between the black one and the champagne.

Want a different travel mug? Check out other design options by LifeSky on Amazon!

Best Value

The Stainless King™ Travel Mug features a double wall insulation to allow for maximum temperature retention, helping you keep your drinks cold or hot. If you are looking for a different design – one that can hold up to 32 oz of fluid, then we recommend that you get the Insulated 32 Ounce Compact Stainless Steel Beverage Bottle.

Thermos Vacuum Insulated Compact Stainless Steel 16 Ounce Beverage Bottle – Available in 5 Colors

Thermos Travel Mug SK1005RSTRI4 - Raspberry

Features

Since its beginning in 1904, Thermos has managed to produce an array of products ranging from lunch kits for kids to other innovative products that provide value for customers.

For those that need a completely durable stainless steel travel mug that will satisfy their busy routines, the Thermos Stainless King™ Travel Mug is a must-have. It comes with a contoured design that is at home with most car cup holders. If you love to take tea, it offers you the convenience of a built-in tea hook that allows you to brew your tea while on the move. It also features a spill-proof lead that works by easily pushing the lever at a 45-degree angle.

This travel mug is a convenient buy considering that it retails at just $29.99. Here are some features it comes with:

A cool-to-touch and sweat-proof design that eliminates the need for coasters
A tea hook that is built in to make it easy for tea drinkers to brew tea on the go
Designed to fit easily in any car cup holder
Built to last with its stainless steel exterior and interior

This travel mug is available in a variety of colors starting with the Matte black, midnight blue, raspberry, red, and silver.

Want a different design instead? Don’t worry because Thermos offers many travel mugs that you will love!

The Double Wall Thermal Tumbler is made of pure stainless steel and comes with a double wall vacuum, keeping your hot beverages hot and cold drinks ice-cold. Want an even bigger travel mug with 36 ounces? Try out the Custom Powder Coated Stainless Steel Insulated Can and you might just like it!

RTIC Double Walled 18/8 Stainless Steel Travel Mug – Available in 3 Sizes & 6 Colors

RTIC Travel Mug RTIC30 – 30 Ounce – Stainless Steel

Features

RTIC aims to provide quality features in all its products, guaranteeing durability and longevity. With a long-standing history of excellent customer service, more and more consumers are turning to it as a reliable brand.

The RTIC Double Wall Thermal Tumbler comes with a double wall vacuum insulated design that guarantees to keep your drinks hot for up to 12 hours. With a clear lid, you won't have to keep guessing how much is left. It is convenient since it doesn't just keep your hot drinks hot, but also works to keep the cold drinks cold and fresh for up to 60 hours. That has to be one of the most convenient travel mugs, especially if you are always on the move.

Owing to its amazing features, you will expect to part with around $39.99 to own this travel mug. Here are some of the features you will enjoy:

An air-tight lid that keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot
The outside stays sweat-free so that you won’t need a coaster when you use it
A stainless steel construct that is also durable
A tall and narrow design to easily fit most car cup holders
Built with an easy-grip design that has a taller base for stability
Double wall vacuum insulation system that retains maximum temperature

If you looking for variety, the RTIC Double Wall Thermal Tumbler comes in a number of sizes, and its colors range from stainless steel, camo, black, pink, teal, and white.

Want a different travel mug instead? Explore Amazon and find out other amazing options by RTIC!

The AUTOSEAL West Loop Travel Mug comes with a nice sleek design, making it a good option for modern lovers and urban explorers. Want a different design instead? How about you try the SnapSeal Byron Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug? It’s also 20oz!

Contigo AUTOSEAL West Loop Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Travel Mug with Easy Clean Lid – Available in 3 Sizes & 13 Colors

Contigo Travel Mug 70114-AMZ – Grayed Jade

Features

Contigo boasts of being a manufacturer of products that complements consumers who are always on the move. It is known for helping commuters and travelers enjoy piping hot coffee or an icy-cold post workout water.

If you are always on the move and need a good travel mug, then the Contigo AUTOSEAL West Loop will be a great option. It has a large capacity that can hold enough water, coffee, or tea, keeping you hydrated anywhere, anytime. The mug also comes with a spill-proof design that keeps your drinks intact for long periods. With its easy-to-clean lid that opens up completely, you will have an easy time using it.

You might not believe it but this tumbler goes for a retail price of around $20.99. Here are some of the features to expect:

An auto-seal technology that gives you peace of mind
One-handed drinking design that is convenient for traveling or moving around
Spill-proof so that you can carry it with you anywhere and in any position
Capacity of 20oz that is reliable for storing tea, water, or coffee
Keeps your drinks hot for up to 7 hours and keeps cold drinks cold for 18 hours

You can pick between the numerous color options that come with this travel mug, ranging from Biscay bay, to watermelon and latte among others. You can also choose sizes ranging from 16oz, 20oz, and 24oz.

Prefer a different travel mug instead? You will get one because Contigo offers many great options. Explore them today!

The Insulated Cruiser Tumbler features a cool modern design, making it a good option for those who are style-conscious. Want a different design that allows you to choose between three sizes? Why not try out the Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle.

Simple Modern Double Walled Insulated Tumbler Vacuum Cruiser with Lid – Available in 3 Sizes & 21 Colors

Simple Modern Travel Mug Cruiser – Grapefruit Red – 30oz

Features

Simple Modern does one thing and does it best – it makes innovative and modern products that perform exceptionally. Most of its products are stylish and are available at competitive prices, something that’s behind the generous reviews on most retail sites.

The Simple Modern Insulated Cruiser Tumbler is a one-of-a-kind travel mug as it incorporates a nice modern design that anyone would adore. It has a 30-oz capacity, allowing you to pack more coffee or cold drinks just the way you love it. It comes with a clear drinking lid that is designed to keep your drinks hot or cold no matter where you are going.

At a retail price of just $14.99, this travel mug comes with some interesting features. Here’s what we are talking about:

Easily fits in most car cup holders, adding to its convenience
Capable of keeping cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks hot for up to 8 hours
Heavy-duty tumbler that lasts longer
Made to be durable with its FDA-approved stainless steel material

There are multiple color variations to choose if you are looking to get this tumbler. Better yet, you can also pick between the 20-oz, 22-oz, or the 30-oz capacity.

Want more travel mugs to compare for the best? Explore Amazon and see many more options by Simple Modern!

Get the Best Travel Mug of 2019!

If you like your coffee hot as you commute to work, or your water ice-cold when out on a road trip, these travel mugs are made to do that job and do it perfectly. Go ahead and take another good look if you’re still undecided, and you’ll be sure to take home a good mug that you can be proud of.

Our Top Choice

LifeSky 16oz Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Best Value

Thermos Stainless King™ Travel Mug

RTIC Double Wall Thermal Tumbler

Contigo AUTOSEAL West Loop Travel Mug

Simple Modern Insulated Cruiser Tumbler