So you’ve decided to give yerba mate a try – maybe you’ve seen it on TikTok, or your friend swears by it as the “smooth caffeine” that gets them through all-nighters. Either way, you’re curious.
But when you start Googling, you quickly realise: there’s a lot of gear involved. Don’t worry – you don’t need to go full gaucho mode to start sipping. Let’s break down what you actually need, what’s nice to have, and what’s just fun extras for when you’re ready to level up your mate game.
What you actually need
1. The yerba leaves
The leaves (and a bit of stem) of Ilex paraguariensis – that’s the herb with its natural caffeine kick.
If you’re just starting out, go for a mild, smooth blend. Something labelled “suave” or “con bajo contenido de polvo” (low dust) is easier to prepare and less bitter.
Try brands like Rosamonte, Taragüi, or Kraus Organic – they’re beginner-friendly and widely available in Europe.
“Think of this as your ‘study fuel upgrade’ — smoother than coffee, but with just enough caffeine to keep your brain switched on.”
If you’re new to the world of yerba mate, you can read our beginner-friendly guide on what Is Yerba mate, where we explore its origins, flavour, and why so many people around the world are switching from coffee to this natural caffeine alternative.
2. The gourd (mate cup)
Traditionally, mate is served in a hollowed-out gourd. But don’t panic – you don’t have to start with one right away.
There are three main types:
🧉 Traditional Gourd (Calabash): authentic, aesthetic, but needs curing and maintenance
🪵 Wood or Ceramic: easy to clean, keeps heat nicely, no curing needed
🥤 Stainless Steel or Silicone: modern, durable, perfect for students (aka: less washing stress)
Start with ceramic or stainless steel – they’re easier to manage and won’t mold if you forget it in your bag for a day (we’ve all been there).
The mate gourd is more than just a cup – it’s part of a centuries-old ritual. In traditional settings, it’s often passed around a group, symbolising connection and respect. Even if you’re drinking solo, it’s a moment to pause and reset.
3. The bombilla (metal straw)
This is your filtering straw – it lets you sip the infusion without swallowing leaves.
Beginners should pick a simple straight bombilla with a screw-on or spring filter.
Curved ones look cool, but can clog more easily depending on your yerba grind.
Tip: Stainless steel bombillas last forever, and you can wash them like regular cutlery.
“We’ve all had that moment of trying to sip mate for the first time and getting a mouthful of leaves – consider this your rite of passage.”
We’ll soon publish a step-by-step guide on how to clean a yerba mate bombilla properly – it’s the small maintenance step that keeps your mate tasting fresh every time.
4. Hot water (and a kettle with temperature control)
The golden rule: never pour boiling water over mate.
Ideal range? 70–80°C (160–175°F) – hot enough to extract flavour, but gentle enough to preserve the nutrients and avoid bitterness.
Many modern mate drinkers (and even baristas) now use kettles with temp control – it’s one of the most common “modern mate hacks.”
If you don’t have a fancy temperature kettle, wait about 2 minutes after boiling before pouring.
What’s nice to have
1. Thermos or flask
Mate is meant to be sipped slowly – one pour at a time.
A thermos keeps your water warm for hours, so you can refill without running back to the kitchen.
Perfect for study sessions, library days, or road trips.
2. Mate spoon or cleaning brush
Keeps your bombilla filter from clogging and your gourd hygienic. Think of it as self-care for your gear.
3. Coaster or platter
Protects your desk from heat and looks aesthetically satisfying – especially if you’re planning mate-and-laptop study shots.
Optional tools (fun but not essential)
1. Mate set or kit
If you’re into coordination, you can find mate sets that include a matching gourd, bombilla, and thermos. Great for gifting (or just flexing your aesthetic on Instagram).
2. Electric mate makers
Yes, they exist. These are like hybrid kettles + gourds, heating your water to the perfect temp and refilling automatically.
Cool? Absolutely. Necessary? Not really – especially on a student budget.
3. Flavoured yerbas & additives
You can find blends with mint, citrus, or even coconut.
Or go DIY – add honey, lemon peel, or a cinnamon stick.
(We’ll explore the best combos in another post soon – stay tuned!)
4. Bombilla filters or replacements
Some bombillas allow you to swap out filters or change designs. A small detail, but useful once you’ve found your favourite grind and setup.
Cleaning & care (don’t skip this part)
If you’re using a traditional gourd, it needs curing before use – basically, soaking to prevent cracks and bitterness.
Ceramic, silicone, and steel gourds? Just rinse after use and air dry.
Always empty used yerba as soon as possible – it can mould quickly.
You’ll thank yourself when your next mate doesn’t taste like compost.
If you’re not sure how to keep your gear in top shape, check out our upcoming post How to clean a yerba mate bombilla and gourd. Proper care not only extends your tools’ lifespan but also keeps your mate tasting pure.
Quick recap
Must-haves
Optional
Nice extras
| Yerba leaves | Flavoured blends | Additives like honey or herbs |
| Gourd + bombilla + hot water | Thermos | Electric mug |
| Coaster | Matching mate set, filters | |
| Storage tin | Decorative coaster/platter |
Why it’s worth it
Mate isn’t just another “energy drink.” It’s a ritual that slows you down while still waking you up.
Whether you’re sipping alone or sharing with friends, it connects you to something deeper – community, tradition, and mindful energy.
“There’s something about holding a warm cup and taking those small sips between study breaks – it just feels like part of the student survival kit.”
So – do you really need all the fancy gear? Not at all. At minimum, grab some yerba and a bombilla – and you’re good to go. A gourd is great for the tradition, but a regular mug will do until you’re ready. And if you’re unsure about the bombilla too? You’ll do just fine using French press to brew the leaves. Stay tuned for our next post about ways to brew and drink mate!
👉 Or, if you’re ready to dive in, grab a starter kit (we’ll list our favourite student-friendly picks soon!) – or check out our next post:
👉 The ultimate guide to mate tools – From gourd to bombilla
👉 Curious about the traditions behind the gourd and bombilla? Check out our upcoming post on Mate culture: from South America to your study desk.
Until then – sip smart, stay sharp. 💚