Want a travel mug that doesn’t taste like plastic?
Then you’ll have to get one that isn’t made from plastic.
Pretty simple answer, I know, but it really is that simple.
What, then, are your options?
Well, apart from plastic, the other common materials tumblers are made of are stainless steel, glass and ceramic.
None of those 3 impart a plastic flavor on your hot coffee or tea, but they each have their own disadvantages.
Plastic is generally the cheapest and the most durable. If either of those factors is most important to you, go with plastic. But you will get that taste.
If it bothers you that your travel mug tastes like plastic, go with metal or ceramic.
Glass is too brittle and usually not any cheaper. It also doesn’t insulate well.
That’s why we’ll focus on the other two materials.
In terms of flavor, ceramic is the best.
Ceramic Mugs: Advantages
The biggest advantage of ceramic travel mugs is that they do not alter the flavor of any drinks, no matter how hot they may be. The other advantages are a low cost and the fact that they usually look better than other materials.
You can find some great double wall insulated mugs here. There are tons more here, if none of those are to your liking.
On the flip side, ceramic mugs are heavier and they can shatter if dropped. Most of them also don’t seal as tightly as the average stainless steel tumbler.
So why not just get a stainless steel one?
Because of this question:
Does Stainless Steel Affect The Taste Of Coffee?
Most people agree that stainless steel does affect the flavor of hot drinks. It is not nearly as pronounced as with plastic, and some don’t notice it at all, but it is there. It is a shame, because stainless steel is otherwise probably the best material. It offers the best insulation and it is durable.
A great alternative are stainless steel mugs that are lined with ceramic on the inside. These offer the best of both worlds, but naturally, they also cost a bit more.