UCO Collapsible Camp Cup Review

Popular Accessories:

• AeroPress Go: Compact coffee maker that pairs perfectly
• Porlex Mini Grinder: Hand grinder that nests inside
• Collapsible Pour Over: Folds flat for easy packing

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this cup tick. The UCO Collapsible Cup is built for the trail but refined enough for daily use. Here’s what you need to know:

Key Specs:

• Capacity: 12 oz (355 ml)
• Expanded: 3.5” x 3.5” x 3.5” (8.9 cm)
• Collapsed: 1.75” x 3.5” x 3.5” (4.4 cm)
• Weight: 2.21 oz (62.6 g)

I’ve found the 12 oz size hits a sweet spot - enough for a proper cup of coffee but not so big it becomes unwieldy. The cup uses food-grade TPE for the collapsible portion and polypropylene for the rim and handle. This combo gives it stability when expanded but allows it to pack down small.

One detail I appreciate: the measurement markings are molded right into the material rather than printed on. They won’t wear off over time like some competitors’ cups I’ve tested.

The handle is sturdy enough to grip confidently, even with hot drinks. It includes a small hole that fits most carabiners - handy for clipping to your pack’s exterior.

Build quality is solid throughout. The seams are well-made with no obvious weak points. Even after repeatedly collapsing and expanding it, the cup maintains its shape and stability.

The magic of this cup lies in its collapsible design. Here’s the rundown on using it:

Expanding:

1. Pull the flexible base down from its collapsed position
2. The cup naturally pops into shape
3. Give it a gentle tug to ensure it’s fully extended

Collapsing:

1. Push the base up into itself
2. The flexible material folds naturally
3. Tuck the folds into the rim

The measurement marks inside work great for both coffee brewing and camp cooking. They show both ml and oz, which comes in handy for international coffee recipes.

One thing that surprised me: despite being collapsible, the cup feels remarkably stable when expanded. No wobbling or tipping, even on uneven surfaces. The rim is reinforced enough that the cup keeps its round shape well.

Temperature Handling:

• Works fine with boiling water
• No problems with iced drinks
• Provides enough insulation to hold comfortably
• Expect typical cooling times - not a thermos replacement

For coffee brewing, I’ve used it successfully with pour-over drippers, as an AeroPress catch cup, and for cold brew. Just remember it’s not insulated, so your coffee will cool at a normal rate.

Let’s break down what works and what doesn’t about the UCO cup after extensive testing:

What Shines:

• Collapses to half its size without fuss
• Measurement marks are actually useful
• Handles hot drinks without burning hands
• Sturdy when expanded - no wobble
• Weighs next to nothing at 2.2 oz
• Built-in carabiner loop works well

Room for Improvement:

• Cools drinks fairly quickly
• Only comes in one color
• Takes practice to collapse smoothly
• Price runs higher than basic cups
• Can retain coffee odors if not cleaned well

During testing, I’ve found the cup particularly excels during backpacking trips. The space savings really add up when you’re counting ounces and cubic inches. I once fit this, a small stove, and fuel canister in the same space my old steel mug alone took up.

The measurement markings have saved me more times than I’d like to admit - especially when sharing coffee with campmates and trying to split portions fairly.

The most common complaint I’ve heard from other users matches my experience: the learning curve on collapsing it smoothly. It’s not difficult, but it takes a few tries to get the hang of the folding pattern.

Having taken this cup on multiple trips, its travel credentials are solid. Here’s the real-world experience:

Packing Performance:

• Slides easily into backpack pockets
• Doesn’t snag on other gear
• Can nest small items inside when collapsed
• Carabiner loop adds carrying options

During a recent weekend camping trip, I clipped it to my pack’s outside pocket for easy access. Despite brushing against branches and rocks, it showed no signs of wear. The polypropylene rim protected the collapsible section well.

The cup’s weight is negligible - about the same as a couple of energy bars. Yet it’s durable enough that I’ve never worried about it getting crushed in my pack, unlike some other collapsible gear I’ve tried.

One clever use I’ve found: when collapsed, it works great as a protective case for storing coffee filters or tea bags. The rigid rim keeps them from getting crushed.

This cup makes the most sense for:

Backpackers & Hikers:

• When every cubic inch of pack space counts
• Those doing long-distance trails
• Day hikers wanting to reduce bulk

Coffee Enthusiasts:

• Pour-over fans needing precise measurements
• Those who appreciate good design
• Anyone tired of disposable cups

Commuters:

• Bike commuters with limited bag space
• Office workers who make their own coffee
• Those who switch between hot and cold drinks

I’ve found it especially valuable during multi-day trips where I’m carrying everything on my back. The space saved by collapsing it means room for an extra day’s food or other essential gear.

This cup isn’t the best choice for:

Long Coffee Sippers:

• If you nurse your coffee for hours
• Those needing serious insulation
• People who prefer huge coffee portions

Value Shoppers:

• If budget is the top priority
• Those fine with disposable cups
• Folks who rarely travel or camp

Consider alternatives like the GSI Infinity Backpacker if you need insulation, or basic enamel mugs if you’re mainly car camping and space isn’t at a premium.

For office use only, a regular mug makes more sense. The collapsible feature adds cost without adding value if you’re not traveling with it.

After months of regular use, here’s how the cup holds up:

Durability Highlights:

• No cracks or tears in the collapsible section
• Measurement marks still clearly visible
• Handle remains sturdy
• Seams show no separation

The TPE material has maintained its flexibility well. Even after hundreds of collapse/expand cycles, it still pops into shape reliably. The rim has picked up a few minor scratches but nothing affecting function.

One surprise: the cup has survived several accidental drops onto rocks with only minor scuffs. The flexible construction actually seems to help absorb impact better than rigid cups.

The only noticeable wear appears on the outer surface where the cup contacts the ground when set down - just some slight roughening of the material.

Keeping your UCO cup in top shape isn’t complicated, but there are some tricks I’ve learned:

Daily Cleaning:

• Rinse right after use to prevent staining
• Warm water and mild soap work best
• Expand fully for thorough cleaning
• Let dry completely before collapsing

Deep Cleaning Tips:

• Use baking soda paste for stubborn coffee stains
• Soak in vinegar solution to remove odors
• Dishwasher safe, but hand washing extends life
• Clean the rim’s seam with a soft brush

One useful hack I’ve discovered: storing the cup expanded helps prevent any moisture-related issues. If you must store it collapsed, make sure it’s bone dry first.

Avoiding Common Issues:

• Don’t use abrasive scrubbers
• Skip the bleach - it can degrade the material
• Avoid storing while damp
• Don’t force the collapsing mechanism

Quick Fixes:

• Sticky collapse? Clean the folding points thoroughly
• Lingering smell? Baking soda soak overnight
• Lost rigidity? Let it sit expanded for 24 hours

The environmental story of the UCO cup is mostly positive, with some nuances worth considering:

Good Points:

• Replaces countless disposable cups
• Durable enough for years of use
• Materials are recyclable
• Compact size reduces transport footprint

Areas for Improvement:

• Still uses plastic-based materials
• No recycled content mentioned
• Limited repair options

During six months of daily use, I estimate this cup has prevented about 180 disposable cups from entering landfills. That’s significant, especially considering those paper cups often have plastic linings that never break down.

The compact design means less material used in manufacturing and shipping compared to rigid cups of the same capacity. However, the TPE and polypropylene materials, while durable and food-safe, are still petroleum-based plastics.

Looking at value rather than absolute cost, here’s how the UCO cup measures up:

Value Adds:

• Space-saving design
• Multi-purpose functionality
• Built-in measurements
• Durable construction

Cost Context:

• Higher than basic camping cups
• Competitive with other collapsible options
• Lower than premium insulated mugs

I’ve found the value proposition strongest for frequent travelers and backpackers. The space saved in a pack can offset the premium price, especially when you consider the cost of replacement if using cheaper, less durable options.

For occasional use, the price might seem steep. But if you’re regularly hiking or camping, the durability and functionality justify the investment.

After extensive use, I’ve discovered some handy tricks to get more from this cup:

1. Double Duty Storage: When collapsed, use it to protect delicate items like coffee filters or tea bags in your pack.

2. Temperature Hack: In cold weather, pre-warm the cup with a splash of hot water before making coffee. It helps your drink stay hot longer.

3. Measurement Master: The lines work great for basic camp cooking too - perfect for measuring rice or pasta portions.

4. Cleaning Shortcut: Fill halfway with warm water, add a drop of soap, collapse and expand several times - works like a washing machine.

5. Packing Pro: Nest small items inside when collapsed to maximize pack space. I often keep my coffee filters and a lightweight spoon in there.

6. Stability Boost: On uneven ground, twist the cup slightly into soft earth for better stability during pour-overs.

7. Winter Trick: In freezing conditions, store expanded to prevent ice from damaging the collapsible section.

Here are real answers to questions I’ve received about this cup:

Q: Does it really hold its shape with hot liquids? A: Yes, surprisingly well. I use it regularly with pour-over coffee right off the boil without issues.

Q: How long does it keep drinks hot? A: About like a regular cup - 15-20 minutes before significant cooling. It’s not insulated.

Q: Is it actually easy to clean? A: Yes, but you need to expand it fully. The dishwasher works, but hand washing reaches all the creases better.

Q: Will it leak if stored collapsed? A: Not if it’s completely dry first. I’ve never had leakage issues in my pack.

Q: How durable is the collapsible material? A: Very. After hundreds of uses, mine shows no signs of cracking or losing shape.

Q: Can I use it with a pour-over dripper? A: Absolutely. The rim is sturdy enough to support most portable drippers.

Q: Does it retain coffee smells? A: It can if not cleaned properly. A baking soda soak fixes this quickly.

Q: Is it stable enough for brewing directly into? A: Yes, the base is wide enough to stay steady during pour-overs.

After months of testing the UCO Collapsible Cup in various situations, it’s clear this isn’t just another gimmicky camping product. The design solves real problems for outdoor coffee enthusiasts without creating new ones.

The cup’s strongest feature - its collapsibility - doesn’t compromise its functionality. It’s stable when you need it to be, packs away when you don’t, and handles hot drinks without drama. The measurement markings and carabiner loop show thoughtful attention to users’ actual needs.

Sure, it’s not perfect. The lack of insulation means your coffee cools at a normal rate, and the price runs higher than basic camping cups. But for anyone who values pack space and appreciates clever design, these tradeoffs make sense.

This cup has earned its place in my permanent camping kit and often makes its way into my daily carry bag too. It’s replaced several other vessels and proved itself a reliable companion for coffee adventures both in the backcountry and urban environments.

For outdoor coffee enthusiasts who pack light and appreciate functional design, this cup is a solid choice. Just don’t expect it to replace your favorite insulated mug for long coffee-sipping sessions.