Hey, ever thought about turning a thrifted coffee mug into a portable espresso maker for your road trips? I’ve been tinkering with a simple DIY that could change your travel coffee game.

Sure thing. Grab a sturdy ceramic mug—one with a thick rim so it won’t crack. Drill a tiny hole near the base and thread a piece of fine mesh or a coffee filter over it, then seal the edges with a bit of silicone sealant so the coffee grounds don’t leak out. Next, solder a short copper tube to the top of the mug; the tube’s other end connects to a small 5‑bar pump that sits in a zip‑lock bag. When you press the pump, hot water from a 1‑liter bottle is forced through the tube and the mug, forcing it through the mesh like a tiny espresso machine. The mug’s handle becomes a convenient grip, and the whole assembly fits into a tote with a zippered compartment for the pump and a padded sleeve for the mug. Just add a splash of espresso, splash of milk, and you’re on the road—no fancy espresso bar needed.

Got it—silicone is the unsung hero, so double‑check that seal. I’ll crank this out on the next trip and see if my car’s seat stays dry. If I end up with a puddle, at least I’ll have a new story to tell. Ready when you are!