As a true coffee lover, I would never ever consider instant, instead, I'd rather remain sober for an hour or two on the trail, as I have done at times.
I can't believe that some here seriously call themselves "coffee lovers" in this thread and yet refer to this hideous brew as an alternative.
On my first Camino in 2013, I took along this mini espresso maker plus a pound of premium ground highland coffee.
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The problem with this was manifold: firstly, the extra weight, and secondly, the compelling need for a hot plate. In addition, I was able to find out very quickly that they have wonderful coffee in Spain. No, I do not mean the "Cafe con Leche", but the Corte, Cafe solo, or whatever it is called.
The thing was extremely practical and I became very popular among early risers, btw
Nevertheless, I left the device at home on my subsequent Caminos and have since managed very well with the simple solution to start walking only at about 8:00 am. At this hour, there is practically always an open bar around the corner...and if not, then I just run an hour without.
With my normal daily walk routine of about 5 to 6 hours, I still arrive very early at the next place. (With the day heat I rarely have a problem, because I prefer my Caminos taking place in the fall.)
If anyone is interested in my Italian Espresso Maker, I would possibly part with this collectible beauty in mint condition and consider offers starting at 100 Euro, the entire proceeds to be donated to the
Ukraine refugees via the ICRC.
The auction would be conducted publicly and openly in this thread.