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Finding the best tea for afternoon pick me up can be tough. Lipton Black Tea Bags are our top pick for their smooth taste and high caffeine content with 100 bags included. For a more budget-friendly option, consider Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler. It offers five comforting flavors but lacks caffeine to boost energy levels.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Teas Reviewed in Detail
Here are some detailed reviews of our top picks for afternoon tea.
1. Top Pick
Lipton Black Tea Bags, Hot or Iced High Caffeine Tea, 100 Total Bags
- LIPTON BLACK TEA: Indulge in a Lipton black tea with a blend of orange pekoe, pekoe cut black tea leaves picked at the peak of freshness for iced tea or hot tea
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Lipton Black Tea with caffeine, orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea leaves for a smooth taste, 100 tea bags per pack
- WAKE UP WITH LIPTON: This Lipton black tea is caffeinated, so you can enjoy the cafe experience in the comfort of your own home first thing in the morning or anytime you need a boost
- EASY TO MAKE: To make this delicious black tea, simply bring water to a boil and let the Lipton tea bag steep for about three to five minutes before sipping for hot tea, or pour it over ice for iced tea
- TRUSTED COMPANY: Lipton is a British-American tea brand. Since Sir Thomas Lipton founded this company in 1890, it has been a trusted company for centuries, offering a smooth taste and good flavor
Lipton Black Tea is a strong choice for an afternoon pick-me-up. It has a rich flavor from orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea leaves. You can enjoy it hot or iced. With 100 tea bags in a pack, it’s convenient for daily use. If you prefer caffeine-free options, check out Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler. This variety pack has calming flavors like Chamomile and Lemon Zinger. Alternatively, Ito En’s Oi Ocha Green Tea offers a clean and refreshing drink made from whole leaves. For those who enjoy sweet tea, Milo’s Tea and Amazon Saver Sweet Tea are both great options. Each provides a natural sweetness without preservatives, perfect for warm afternoons. Lastly, the Twinings Tea Bag Sampler offers 44 different flavors, making it a fun choice for tea lovers.
Pros
- Smooth taste from orange pekoe and black tea leaves.
- High caffeine content to help you feel awake.
- Comes with 100 tea bags for multiple servings.
Cons
- May be too strong for those who prefer milder flavors.
- Not suitable for people avoiding caffeine.
Best for: Those who want a strong afternoon boost. Not ideal for: Individuals sensitive to caffeine.
Lipton Black Tea Bags are perfect for those needing an energetic lift.
2. Best for Afternoon Pick Me Up
Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler Variety Pack, Caffeine Free, 18 Tea Bags Box
- Herbal: Our herbal tea collection brings together five of our most comforting teas: Chamomile, Lemon Zinger, Peppermint, Honey Vanilla Chamomile, and Sleepytime.
- Thoughtful Sourcing: Most of our herbs, botanicals, teas, and fruits are purchased directly from farmers around the world.
- Quality Ingredients: We blend our teas from the finest ingredients, with no artificial flavors or colors.
- Minimal Packaging: We use tea bags without strings, tags, or staples to divert waste from landfills. Plus, we print on 100% recycled paperboard (35% post-consumer content).
- Your Perfect Cup: Steep the tea bag in hot water for 4-6 minutes and remove the bag.
Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler offers a variety of flavors without caffeine, suitable for those who prefer relaxing teas. This pack includes Chamomile, Lemon Zinger, Peppermint, Honey Vanilla Chamomile, and Sleepytime. Compared to Lipton, this sampler lacks the caffeine kick but provides comforting herbal options for a soothing experience. The main limitation is the absence of caffeine, which may not suit those looking for an afternoon boost.
Pros
- Includes five comforting herbal flavors.
- Caffeine-free, great for evening relaxation.
- Thoughtfully sourced ingredients from farmers.
Cons
- Lacks caffeine, not ideal for an energy boost.
- Some flavors may not appeal to everyone.
Best for: Those seeking relaxing, caffeine-free options. Not ideal for: Anyone needing a strong energy lift.
Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler is a comforting choice for relaxation.
3. Best for Small Spaces
Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea, Unsweetened, 16.9 Ounce (Pack of 12)
- WHOLE LEAF TEA: Oi Ocha Green Tea is brewed from first flush whole green tea leaves grown in Japan not from tea powder or concentrate; using the whole leaf means our teas don’t lose any of the health benefits that are naturally present in green tea leaves
- CLEAN AND REFRESHING: Oi Ocha Unsweetened Green Tea has is natural clean tasting and refreshing; putting our iced green tea in a convenient ready to drink bottle means you can have your hydration on the go; it makes a great alternative to traditional sodas
- LOW CALORIE: ITO EN’s Oi Ocha Green Tea has no sugars or artificial sweeteners, making it a delicious, substitute for your usual sugary soda or flavored coffee at only 5 calories; try our naturally vitamin and antioxidant rich tea, and you may never look back
- ANTIOXIDANT RICH: brewed from premium Japanese loose tea leaves, Oi Ocha provides natural catechin tea antioxidants and other healthy goodies; a key to good health, happiness, and wisdom, green tea is the perfect refreshment for your health and well-being
- NO ADDITIVES: ITO EN teas are brewed with no artificial colors or flavors so you can be confident that the only things in our bottles are delicious, healthy green tea and natural flavors; it’s a refreshing beverage you can always feel good about drinking
Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea is made from whole green tea leaves, ensuring a fresh and clean flavor. This tea highlights the health benefits of using the whole leaf instead of powder. It competes well with other green teas but may be considered less flavorful than stronger black teas. The main downside is that it may not provide as strong a boost as black teas for energy.
Pros
- Made from whole green tea leaves for freshness.
- Clean and refreshing taste.
- Rich in antioxidants for health benefits.
Cons
- Flavor may be too mild for some.
- Less caffeine than black tea options.
Best for: Health-conscious consumers and green tea lovers. Not ideal for: Those wanting a strong energy boost.
Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea is a refreshing choice for health enthusiasts.
4. Best Heavy-Duty
Amazon Saver Sweet Tea provides a simple and sweet option for those who enjoy a classic taste. It comes in a large 128 fl oz jug, making it easy to share or enjoy throughout the day. Compared to others, it offers a light sweetness but lacks the caffeine boost found in black or green teas. The main limitation is its sweetness, which may not appeal to those who prefer unsweetened drinks.
Pros
- Comes in a large, convenient 128 fl oz jug.
- Sweet taste for those who enjoy sugary beverages.
- Easy to keep refrigerated for quick access.
Cons
- May be too sweet for some preferences.
- Lacks caffeine, not a true afternoon pick me up.
Best for: Sweet tea lovers who enjoy ready-to-drink options. Not ideal for: Anyone seeking a caffeine boost.
Amazon Saver Sweet Tea is a convenient choice for sweet tea lovers.
5. Best Value
Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler Herbal Tea Variety Pack, Caffeine Free, 18 Tea Bags Per Box
- FRUIT FLAVOR VARIETY: Savor a lively herbal tea variety pack featuring fruit tea bags such as Raspberry Zinger, Country Peach Passion, Wild Berry Zinger, True Blueberry, and Black Cherry Berry
- THOUGHTFUL SOURCING: Most of our herbs, botanicals, teas, and fruits are purchased directly from farmers around the world
- FINEST INGREDIENTS: Experience fruity flavors with our assorted teas. These herbal tea bags are crafted with quality ingredients
- MINIMAL PACKAGING: We use tea bags without strings, tags, or staples to divert waste from landfills. Plus, we print on 100% recycled paperboard (35% post-consumer content)
- CAFFEINE FREE: Enjoy caffeine-free comfort with herbal tea bags from these variety tea bags
Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler offers a range of fruity flavors without caffeine, ideal for relaxing afternoons. It includes flavors like Raspberry Zinger and Country Peach Passion. This is a good choice for those who prefer fruit teas over traditional black teas. However, its lack of caffeine means it may not provide the energy boost you seek during the afternoon slump.
Pros
- Includes five fruity herbal flavors.
- Caffeine-free, suitable for evening enjoyment.
- Thoughtfully sourced ingredients from farmers.
Cons
- No caffeine, not ideal for an energy boost.
- Some flavors may not appeal to everyone.
Best for: Those who enjoy fruity, caffeine-free herbal teas. Not ideal for: Anyone needing a strong afternoon boost.
Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler is a fruity option for relaxation.
6. Best for Daily Use
Milo's Tea Sweet Tea, 128 FZ
- 100% Natural: You won’t find any preservatives in our Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea – only real ingredients for a really delicious 100% natural beverage.
- High-Quality Ingredients: We use simple, high-quality ingredients to make Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea – giving you a delicious difference you can taste.
- Brewed Fresh Daily: Milo’s Famous Sweet Tea is brewed fresh daily giving you the most refreshing beverage every time you take a sip.
Milo’s Tea is a sweet tea made with 100% natural ingredients, offering a delicious drink. It comes in a 128 fl oz jug, making it easy to serve. This sweet tea competes well against other ready-to-drink options but lacks the caffeine found in black teas. The sugary flavor may not be right for those looking for a more traditional tea experience.
Pros
- 100% natural ingredients without preservatives.
- Freshly brewed daily for great taste.
- Convenient jug size for sharing.
Cons
- Too sweet for some tastes.
- No caffeine, not a good pick me up option.
Best for: Fans of sweet tea looking for convenience. Not ideal for: Anyone needing caffeine for an energy boost.
Milo’s Tea is a sweet option for those who enjoy classic flavors.
7. Best Lightweight
Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger Tea Bags, 16 ct
- FLAVOR: Yogi Lemon Ginger tea combines lively Ginger, tart Lemon Peel, and Peppermint Leaf for a perfectly spiced and citrus-y blend.
- BENEFITS: This warming herbal blend combines Ginger and Peppermint to soothe your stomach and support healthy digestion.
- ORGANIC: USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified.
- CONTENTS: Caffeine-free, Vegan, Kosher, Gluten-free, No Artificial Flavors or Sweeteners, and individually packaged in compostable tea bags.
- DOING GOOD: Certified B Corp, member of Ethical Tea Partnership, with the first LEED-Certified tea production facility in the world. Organic farming practices and commitments to regenerative agriculture ensure that our teas are top quality while giving back to farmers and nature.
- Features ginger, lemon, and peppermint
- Certified organic and caffeine-free; helps aid digestion
- Boxes wrapped with cellophane; teabags packed in heat-sealed envelopes for freshness
- Ingredients carefully handled in organically certified facility in Eugene, Oregon
Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger combines lively ginger, tart lemon peel, and peppermint for a refreshing blend. Its organic and non-GMO certification adds to its appeal. This tea is a great option for those looking for a flavorful herbal tea that supports digestion. The downside is that its flavor might not be strong enough for those who prefer more traditional options.
Pros
- Unique blend of ginger and lemon for a tart flavor.
- Supports digestion with soothing ingredients.
- USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO.
Cons
- Flavor may be too mild for some.
- Not a strong energy booster.
Best for: Those seeking herbal benefits and unique flavors. Not ideal for: Anyone wanting a strong caffeine lift.
Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger is a tasty herbal option for digestion support.
8. Runner-Up
Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Assortment, Variety Pack (44 Count), 44 Unique Flavours for Tea Lovers: Women, Men, Couples, Family, Friends, Coworkers
- 44 ASSORTED FLAVOURS: The Twinings Tea Bags Sampler Assortment Variety Pack includes 44 tea bags, offering a diverse selection of Twinings teas.
- GREAT CHOICE FOR ANY OCCASION: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or special celebrations. This assortment box is a fantastic selection for tea lovers, family, friends, coworkers, or couples to enjoy together.
- IDEAL FOR TEA LOVERS: Whether you’re a long-time tea lover or just starting to explore, this sampler pack is the perfect way to discover new flavors. It’s a great choice for yourself or any tea enthusiast in your life.
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Individually wrapped tea bags ensure freshness and convenience, perfect for home, office, or on-the-go.
- EASY TO PREPARE: Add freshly boiled water. Steep about 3 minutes or to desired strength. Enjoy it hot or cold over ice.
Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Assortment provides a diverse selection of 44 unique flavors for tea lovers. This assortment is perfect for those who enjoy exploring different types of tea. While it has many flavors, the caffeine levels vary significantly. Some teas may not provide the energy boost you need in the afternoon slump, making it less reliable for that purpose.
Pros
- Includes 44 assorted flavors for variety.
- Great for tea lovers who like to try new things.
- Suitable for various occasions and gatherings.
Cons
- Caffeine levels vary, may not always boost energy.
- Some flavors may not appeal to everyone.
Best for: Tea explorers who enjoy variety. Not ideal for: Those seeking a consistent caffeine boost.
Twinings Tea Bag Sampler offers a fun variety for tea enthusiasts.
Teas Compared Side by Side
This table compares the best tea for afternoon pick me up. You will see details like the type of tea, caffeine level, and packaging. Check the options to find which suits your needs best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lipton Black Tea Bags | Top Pick | Lipton Tea & Infusions Company | $4.97 | Check |
| 2 | Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler Variety Pack | Best for Afternoon Pick Me Up | Hain Celestial | $3.13 | Check |
| 3 | Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea | Best for Small Spaces | Ito En | $18.78 | Check |
| 4 | Amazon Saver | Best Heavy-Duty | Amazon.com Services LLC | $3.27 | Check |
| 5 | Celestial Seasonings Fruit Tea Sampler Herbal Tea Variety… | Best Value | Hain Celestial Group | $3.13 | Check |
| 6 | Milo's Tea Sweet Tea | Best for Daily Use | Milo's Tea | $3.98 | Check |
| 7 | Yogi Tea Lemon Ginger Tea Bags | Best Lightweight | Everready First Aid | $4.59 | Check |
| 8 | Twinings Tea Bag Sampler Assortment | Runner-Up | Twinings | $14.49 | Check |
| 9 | Ginseng Five Treasures Kidney Tea | — | BeleePlanner | $8.49 | Check |
| 10 | Traditional Medicinals Organic Chamomile with Lavender… | — | Traditional Medicinals | $5.88 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Data for our analysis comes from manufacturer specifications, customer reviews, and trusted tea websites. We looked at over 30 different tea options to identify the best choices for afternoon pick me up.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on teas that are known for their flavor and caffeine content. Only options with at least 15 bags per pack and positive reviews made it to our shortlist. This ensured a balance between variety and value.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products with low caffeine content or limited flavor profiles. Teas with less than 10 bags or poor customer feedback were also removed. This helped us focus on options that users found enjoyable.
What we did not do
No tea was tested by hand, and we did not take lab measurements. We relied on credible sources and user feedback to inform our choices. No subjective scores were invented for this review.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated every six months. We will review new products and adjust our recommendations based on customer feedback and market trends. This ensures you always have fresh options.
How to Choose Teas
Caffeine Content
Look for teas with higher caffeine levels if you seek an afternoon pick me up. Black teas usually have more caffeine than herbal options. A good target is around 40-70 mg of caffeine per serving.
Flavor Profile
Choose flavors that you enjoy to make your tea experience pleasant. If you prefer fruity, opt for fruit teas. For a classic taste, black or green teas are best. Consider trying different varieties to find your favorite.
Bag Quantity
Consider how many tea bags you need. A larger quantity is ideal if you drink tea regularly. Packs with at least 15 bags will provide several servings, making them a good value for daily use.
Quality of Ingredients
Check the quality of the tea leaves. Organic teas or those with high-quality ingredients often taste better. Look for brands that source their teas from reputable growers to ensure great flavor.
Brewing Ease
Easy brewing can enhance your tea experience. Bagged teas are typically simpler to prepare than loose leaf options. If convenience is important, choose tea bags that brew quickly and easily.
What to look for
Caffeine Boost
Caffeine is important for that afternoon pick me up. Black tea has the highest caffeine content. If you need energy, look for teas with at least 40 mg of caffeine per serving.
Flavor Variety
The variety of flavors can enhance your tea experience. Some prefer classic black or green teas, while others enjoy fruity or herbal blends. Choose based on your taste preferences to make the experience enjoyable.
Quality Ingredients
Quality matters for tea. Organic and sustainably sourced ingredients can lead to better flavor. Look for brands that emphasize their sourcing practices for the best taste.
Brewing Time
Pay attention to brewing time for the best flavor. Most black teas need about 3-5 minutes to steep. If you prefer herbal or green teas, they may require different steeping times for optimal taste.
Serving Size
Consider how much tea you plan to drink. Bags with at least 15-20 servings are great for daily use. If you drink tea regularly, larger packs will save you money over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tea for afternoon pick me up?
The best tea for afternoon pick me up is Lipton Black Tea Bags. They offer a strong flavor and high caffeine content.
How much caffeine is in Lipton Black Tea?
Lipton Black Tea typically has around 55 mg of caffeine per cup. This is enough to help you feel more alert.
Can I drink herbal tea for an energy boost?
Herbal teas are usually caffeine-free, which means they don’t provide an energy boost. However, certain herbal blends can still be refreshing.
How do I make the best cup of tea?
To make the best cup of tea, steep it for the right amount of time and use fresh, filtered water. Follow the instructions on the tea package for best results.
Is green tea good for an afternoon boost?
Yes, green tea can be good for an afternoon boost. Ito En Tea Oi Ocha Green Tea has a nice caffeine level and refreshing taste.
Shopping around? We have 68 more tea guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR dishwashers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR refrigerators ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
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