A travel ritual: tea on the road instead of a coffee stop
Take a flask, a few tea bags and, if you like, a bottle of cold brew tea. That way you drink your own tea rather than coffee from a stop. Keep to no more than 200 mg of caffeine at one time (EFSA).
What you need
- A flask or bottle
- Tea bags (black, green and one caffeine-free)
- Cold brew tea from the night before (optional)
How to make it
- Before the trip make cold brew tea and pour it into a bottle; keep it cold.
- Pack 3–4 bags for different needs.
- At a stop ask for hot water and brew your own tea.
- Note how much caffeine you have had (caffeine tracker).
How much caffeine
Black tea 14–48 mg, green 11–29 mg, a cup of filter coffee 80–107 mg. EFSA: up to 200 mg at one time and 400 mg a day for adults.
Tips
- Hot water is often available free or for a small fee, but it depends on the place.
- Keep cold brew cold and finish it within a day or two.
FAQ
Can I drink tea on the road instead of coffee?
Yes, a flask or hot water from a stop works. Caffeine varies, so choose by plan.
How much caffeine is safe at once?
EFSA: up to 200 mg at one time for adults.
Also useful
Sources
- EUFIC: EFSA opinion on the safety of caffeine (2015)
- Mayo Clinic: Caffeine content for coffee, tea, soda and more
- The Takeout: Maybe don't make sun tea this summer (cold brewing in the fridge vs warm sun tea)
Caffeine figures come from our database (checked 2026-10-24) and vary with the tea and brewing. General information, not medical advice. Amounts in recipes are only a starting point; adjust to taste.