The device tested was the Minipresso NS model, meaning it uses the Nespresso Pods to deliver a shot of the good stuff. The other two models in the range can accommodate Caffitaly Pods (CA model) and ground coffee beans (GR model). This allows you to select your favourite pod or bean and get a shot of coffee made to your liking wherever, whenever.

The two pod models work the same way in that you insert a pod one end, fill up the water tank the other end and pump the hand pump in the middle to deliver the coffee shot. The GR model uses ground coffee instead of beans but operates the same once the coffee is in place.

Obviously, the GR model requires you to carry pre-ground coffee which is something to consider if buying that model. I haven’t used it but would imagine from using a ‘proper’ grinder and coffee machine set up at home, this would be the messier option of the three to use. Not something I wanted to muck around with when out bush. The other clear advantage of the Pod models is the ease of use and consistency of coffee it delivers, unlike coffee that you pre-grind yourself, which can dramatically affect the shot of coffee if it’s not quite right.

This device is seriously easy to use. In fact, when I received it I didn’t even read the instructions. I had already watched a YouTube clip of it working several weeks earlier and that was enough. I mean who reads instructions anyway?

Within minutes of snatching the box from the delivery guy I had the device in my hand, it was unwrapped, pod inserted, kettle boiled and I was pumping a shot of hot coffee with great crema at around 8 bar (which is pretty close to an actual coffee machine). The only thing left to decide once you have the coffee shot poured is if you want to add sugar and milk.

After years of hiking and camping trips drinking coffee bags and instant (*cough dirt cough*) I can honestly say this device is a godsend. The last trip I used it on was a bushwalk so I just poured a shot, topped it up with hot water, and added sugar. That was still significantly better than any other type of camping coffee I’ve had before.

If I’m in the caravan or 4wd I will be looking to combine it with something like the Bellpresso milk steamer for home quality coffee off the grid. I can see this coming in my suitcase for overseas trips as well where good coffee might be hard to get.