Even on a summer evening, it can be nice to have a hot drink. Watching the sun go down while you cradle a cup of coffee is the perfect end to an alfresco meal, wherever you are.
We’ve picked ten of our favourite vacuum flasks, perfect for picnics or eating in the garden – don’t forget they’re also ideal for transporting iced drinks, as well!
Pack homemade lemonade, mint iced tea, fruit punch or elderflower cordial with crushed ice for the perfect refresher for a lunchtime picnic.
1. Garden bee travel cup, Rex London
We love the bright, summery vibes of this bee-inspired travel cup. A special technique is used to print the pattern onto the bottle, creating a unique 3D embossed effect. £12.95, available from Rex London.
2. Geo circles stainless steel travel mug, Caroline Gardner
Keep your flat white hot, or your frappe cool, with this retro inspired geometric circles travel mug. Constructed from insulated stainless steel and with a vacuum sealed clip top lid, this mug is both stylish and practical. £20, available from Caroline Gardner.
3. Geological design drinks bottle, Natural History Museum
Learn while you sip your coffee, with this unusual flask showing geological timelines. When you pour in your hot tea or ice-cold water, you’ll fill upwards from the Archean Era of microbial life, through the Devonian Period when starfish-like creatures appeared, past the Mesozoic era of dinosaurs and reach the Quaternary period just before you screw on the leak-proof lid. Every day’s a school day! £38, available from the Natural History Museum.
4. Kew logo travel cup. Kew Gardens
Embrace the beauty of nature with this stylish cup featuring the Kew botanical logo. Crafted from plant starch, a green material made from corn, it’s not only durable but also safe for everyday use. £12.50, available from Kew Gardens.
5.Pink hearts Chilly’s bottle, Emma Bridgewater
This cute insulated bottle keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24. With a leak-proof airtight lid and condensation-free design, it’s the perfect companion for on-the-go hydration. Made from high-grade stainless steel, it’s durable enough to be your road companion for years to come. £30, available from Emma Bridgewater.
6. Wild flowers insulated bottle, Rex London
This bottle, decorated with a pretty wild flower design, is the essence of summer. It will keep drinks cool for up 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours making a stylish way to stay hydrated on days out. £14.95, available from Rex London.
7. Mackerel stainless steel food flask, Rex London
With a design inspired by vintage food packaging, this useful flask keeps contents cool for up 24 hours, and hot for up to 12 hours. Perfect for hot soup for a starter, or even hot chocolate sauce to pour over a pudding. available in different designs, so each person can have their own. £19.95, available from Rex London.
8. William Morris keep cup, V&A Museum Shop
How gorgeous is this tumbler, embossed with William Morris’ famous Leicester wallpaper pattern? Made from stainless steel and double walled for insulation, it’s suitable for hot and cold drinks, maintaining the temperature of each for longer. £20, available from V&A Museum Shop.
9. Thermal flask with mug, B&M
Complete with a serving cup and a vacuum insulated, stainless steel design, this thermal flask is durable and practical, ideal for camping, hiking, travel, or outdoor adventures. £8, see the B&M website for your local store.
10. Thermulate 0.6l mug in wisteria, Regatta
This generously-sized insulated tumbler is built for on-the-go use with durable stainless steel. Its double-wall design keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours or warm for up to 6. The convenient flip-top straw lid makes it ideal for outdoor activities, too. It’s available in a range of colours, and costs £22 from Regatta.
By Sara Walker
