Are you planning on going on a camping trip with the family? Perhaps a long trek through the hills for charity? Being prepared is the most important thing to remember and part of being prepared is making sure you have a safe, clean supply of water. This will mean you can stay hydrated, wash and do your dishes no matter the location. Thanks to new technology, this is no longer a struggle and we’ve put together a list of the top 10 best water containers for camping on the market right now so you can find the right portable water container for your individual needs.
Our Recommendations
Best Overall
Arrow Home Products 2 Gallon Slimline Beverage Container in Clear
Best Value
WaterStorageCube BPA Free Collapsible Water Container with Spigot, Camping Water Storage Carrier Jug for Outdoors Hiking Backpack & Survival Kit, Foldable Portable Water Canteen 1.3/2.6/5.3 Gallon
Most Premium
Smart Tank 50 Gallon Stackable Water Storage Tank - BPA Free - Made in the USA
WaterStorageCube BPA Free Collapsible Water Container with Spigot, Camping Water Storage Carrier Jug for Outdoors Hiking Backpack & Survival Kit, Foldable Portable Water Canteen 1.3/2.6/5.3 Gallon
Arrow Home Products 00744 40 Cup Slimline Beverage Dispense
Hydrapak Seeker - Collapsible Water Storage (2L, 3L, or 4L) - BPA & PVC Free Camping Hydration Reservoir
WaterStorageCube BPA Free Collapsible Water Container with Spigot, Camping Water Storage Carrier Jug for Outdoors Hiking Backpack & Survival Kit, Foldable Portable Water Canteen 1.3/2.6/5.3 Gallon
WaterStorageCube BPA Free Collapsible Water Container with Spigot, Camping Water Storage Carrier Jug for Outdoors Hiking Backpack & Survival Kit, Foldable Portable Water Canteen 1.3/2.6/5.3 Gallon
Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser with Flat Seat Lid, Bright Orange
Smart Tank 50 Gallon Stackable Water Storage Tank - BPA Free - Made in the USA
Reliance Products Jumbo-Tainer 7 Gallon Jerry Can Style Rigid Water Container, Blue, 15.5 Inch x 7.3 Inch x 21.8 Inch
API Kirk Containers 5 Gallon Samson Stackers, Blue, 4 Pack (20 Gallons), Emergency Water Storage Kit - New! - Clean! - Boxed! - Kit Includes One Spigot and Cap Wrench
API Kirk Containers 5 Gallon Samson Stackers, Blue, 4 Pack (20 Gallons), Emergency Water Storage Kit - New! - Clean! - Boxed! - Kit Includes One Spigot and Cap Wrench
You will find below, 10 of the best camping water containers out there on the market right now, along with the main features and benefits that you should know about. We’ve also listed the key pros and cons for each, making it easier for you to shortlist your preferred water containers and make an informed buying decision.
First on our list of camping water containers is this water container from Arrow Home Products. At 2 gallons, it is small enough to carry fairly easily on camping trips but still offers a decent amount of water for a small group. Made with BPA-free materials, you can trust that it won’t cause the water to taste funny and will be safe to hold your water supply.
In terms of design, it has been developed with slimline dimensions so that it will fit into a refrigerator to help keep your water cold and refreshing. The spout makes it easy to dispense wanted and the built-in handle makes it easy to carry to the next site if you’re on the move. As always, if you’re collecting water from an unknown source then we advise you to test the water and filter it prior to use just to make sure that it is safe for you and the people you are with.
Pros
Cons
A slimline 2-gallon water container
It will fit in the refrigerator to keep drinks cold
It has been made with BPA-free materials
At 2 gallons it is one of the smaller water containers on our list so for larger groups it may not be sufficient
Reliance is well-known for making strong, long-lasting water containers including this collapsible camping water container. At 5 gallons it is a good size for most hikers and thanks to it folding away, you can easily put it in your backpack when hiking to the campsite.
It has been constructed with BPA-free, food-approved high-grade polyethylene which combines lightweight with strength. It has a handle built-in and the spigot is designed to be leakproof, using an on/off feature to keep things simple. A big plus is that this water container will remain flexible and strong in extremely cold temperatures, so you don’t need to worry about staying hydrated in difficult conditions. The dimensions when full are 12 x 4 x 16 inches and its weight without water is only 0.65lbs.
Pros
Cons
A collapsible camping water container that holds up to 5 gallons of water
It has been made with BPA-free, food-approved plastic
It includes a handle and spigot that is designed to stop leakages
When full it doesn’t always stay in the box shape so make sure it is on a flat surface
Another water container from Arrow Home Products to make it on this list and it is another slimline solution. At 2.5 gallons, its dimensions are 14.75 x 5.5 x 9.5 inches but you can also get different sizes and designs including stackable options.
Made in the USA, it has been built with BPA-free plastic so that you can trust it to be safe and the large opening makes filling it up or adding ice cubes very easy. It has the usual built-in handle for easy carrying and a spigot that dispenses water easily enough, but do be aware that you need to tighten the spigot before use otherwise it may leak! A durable, compact water container that will fit perfectly with your camping gear but once more, it is a smaller size compared to others on the list so if there is a group of you it may be worth going for the larger size.
Pros
Cons
A slimline water container that holds 2.5 gallons of water or other beverages
Made in the USA with BPA-free plastic for extra safety
A wide opening for easy refilling and simply spigot to easily dispense water
At 2.5 gallons, it isn’t the biggest on the list but a good choice for the individual camper or those with easy access to a source for refilling
If you’re searching for a high-quality portable water container for 1 person, then these Hydrapak Seekers are a great choice. Available in a range of capacities under 1-gallon, they are collapsible water containers and that means you can easily fit them in your backpack or pocket.
Suitable as both camping water containers and for those focusing on running or long hikes in the countryside, it will work through all temperatures ranging from frozen all the way up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use most 42mm threaded filters and screw them on the top to allow you to drink water from unknown or wild sources such as rivers and lakes. Clearly, this isn’t designed for those wanting a camping water container to cover drinking, cooking, and cleaning for a group of people but for those individuals wanting a small, handy-sized water container then you can’t go wrong.
Pros
Cons
A collapsible water container that will fit in backpacks and some pockets
It will work in almost all temperatures, ranging from being frozen up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit
You can attach most filters to it to safely drink from unknown sources
These water containers are under 1-gallon so wouldn’t be useful for longer camping trips or groups
WaterStorageCube offers a range of BPA-free collapsible water containers, ranging from a single 2.6-gallon option all the way up to an 8-pack of 5.3-gallon water containers. All of these are made with food-grade, BPA-free plastic so you can trust it is safe to drink from and won’t suffer from a horrible taste.
Its space-saving design and molded handle make it easy to carry and transport to your location. This also makes it the perfect choice for outdoor situations like camping, hiking, taking on the RV, or storing in your emergency location at home. Thanks to its custom-made lid and spigot, you can easily get access to the water supply and the lack of parts means it will minimise the chance of leakages. The manufacturer provides a 30-day satisfaction guarantee if you’re unhappy with the product.
Pros
Cons
Available in a range of options from a single 2.6-gallon container, all the way up to an 8-pack of 5.3-gallon water containers
It has been made with BPA-free plastic for a safe supply of drinking water
It is a collapsible, space-saving design that makes it perfect for camping trips
Smaller sized containers may not be suitable for those wanting to have a larger supply ready
Yet another strong, portable water container that will provide you with a 5-gallon supply of water to drink, cook with and wash dishes with. This makes it perfect for those wanting water at a campsite, picnic, emergency, or for travelling in an RV.
It is a collapsible water container, made from BPA-free, heavy-duty clean polyethylene which not only makes it strong and long-lasting, but you can see how much water is left before you need to go in search of a source to refill it from. A built-in handle makes it easy to carry and the spigot can be removed quickly to allow you to refill it or add extra ice cubes for a more refreshing drink. The dimensions of this product when expanded are 11 x 11 x 12 inches but when collapsed it will fit into your backpack or tent to keep it safe. The only minor complaint by some customers is that it doesn’t always maintain its shape, as shown in the pictures.
Pros
Cons
A 5-gallon, collapsible camping water container
It has been made with BPA-free, heavy-duty plastic
It has a built-in handle and removable spigot to aid in refilling it
A common trait among collapsible camping water containers is that it doesn’t always hold its shape very well
This bright orange, 5-gallon portable water container looks perfect for setting up a beverage dispenser at a sports event. However, it is perfect for someone wanting a camping water container too. Made from Ultratherm, it will stand up to the weather and has UV inhibitors that protect it from sun damage.
The spigot is recessed and angled to prevent drips from happening, it also has two reinforced handles that make it easy to carry from the car or RV to your camping spot. The lid is also connected to the water container by a cord to stop it from getting lost or accidentally falling off. They have also used a pressure-fit lid that minimises the risk of dirt or mold getting into your water supply. As a nice extra, the lid has a seat-top so it will act as extra seating when you’re all sitting around the campfire at night.
Pros
Cons
A 5-gallon sports water cooler
Made with Ultratherm and has UV inhibitors to protect it from sun damage
It comes with carrying handles, a seat-top, and a recessed spigot to reduce leaks
Not the easiest to carry so probably not right for those going hiking or having to walk a long way to the campsite.
If you’re looking for a super-sized camping water container then you need not look further than this huge 50-gallon stackable water storage tank from Smart Tank. Made in the USA using BPA-free plastic materials, you can trust it will keep your water safe for when you need it most.
As it is both BPA-free and UV resistant, they are made to last and resist the effects of the weather, perfect for some of those more wild locations or longer trips into the countryside. The stackable design makes them useful for those who have a permanent cabin or want to set up some emergency water supplies at their home, which makes them a great space saver too. At 24lbs without any water in and dimensions of 24 x 24 x 30, they are not the most portable of water containers out there so if you’re hiking or just camping for a weekend then look at other water containers.
Pros
Cons
A huge 50-gallon water storage tank
It has been made with BPA-free, UV resistant plastic that makes it safe and long-lasting
A stackable water container means it works well as emergency storage of water
Not a portable option for those wanting a water container for a weekend in the countryside
Another drinking water container from Reliance makes it onto our list and this one is a 7-gallon model in the form of the classic jerry can. At 15.5 x 7.3 x 21.8 inch it isn’t too big and can easily be stored for emergencies or on camping trips. It has all the usual features including two helping carrying handles that are molded into the body.
This rigid water container has a reliable tap-style spigot to make it easy to pour out water whenever you need it, or you add in any kind of filters you may want to use. A classic, sturdy design makes it a popular choice for many who want to be prepared for an emergency and you can trust it will keep your water safe and secure. We would say that the design is more focused on helping you to carry it as opposed to stacking it and saving space, but for some this may not be an issue.
Pros
Cons
Each container holds up to 7 gallons of water
Designed with a tap style spigot and two carrying handles for extra mobility
The dimensions are 15.5 x 7.3 x 21.8 inches
A basic jerry can style container that some customers have reported leaking so be careful it works correctly when it arrives
We’ve put this pack of 4 x 5-gallon water containers on the list because you may be searching for a water container solution at home, at your cabin, or more substantial campsites. The classic stackable design means they are easy to store, take up minimal space, and yet provide a strong supply of water.
Each water container is approximately 11.25 x 10 x 14.25 inches and each water container is made from high-density polyethylene. As a BPA-free and food-grade material, you can trust that it is safe to hold your water supply. This water container comes with a dust plugged to protect it until you’re ready to use it, as well as a spigot which makes it easy to access water and refill when you need to. Overall, a fantastic choice for those with a log cabin or wanting to set up a more permanent supply of water, so if you’re going camping for a few days or a hike in the hills then it won’t be for you.
Pros
Cons
A pack of 4 x 5-gallon water containers
All made with high-density polyethylene for long-lasting performance
A stackable design and easy to use connectors
Not particularly portable so normal campers will want to look at other options on our list
It is so important to think about the key requirements you and your family have for a water container for camping. This is because there is a wide range of sizes, types, collapsible containers, stackable containers, and more. Without understanding exactly what you’re looking for then you have the potential to waste money on the wrong type or run out of water when you need it most.
Factors you should look for when choosing a camping water container
1. Size and Capacity
The first issue to consider is how much water you’re going to need for your camping trip! Are you just going away overnight? Or perhaps there is a big group of you travelling across the country for a period of weeks?
Either way, you want to make sure everyone has the ability to stay hydrated and also have water for cooking and cleaning with. The size and capacity of each camping water container will vary but on average, they will be around 5 gallons each. Smaller options are more portable for those walking long distances and then you can get collapsible ones that are easy to carry but need refilling on location so you need to be aware of water supplies will be at your campsite.
2. Material
The vast majority of water containers will be made from durable, BPA-free plastics. However, you will get some that are slightly different types of materials and both hard-shell or collapsible materials. It is more common to get water bottles in stainless steel or glass so you won’t really be searching for these materials and this means for those who dislike using plastic given its environmental impact, there isn’t a great deal of choice sadly.
It doesn’t make a huge difference what you go for but it is important to make sure that your water container is made with safe materials, particularly BPA-free and food-grade. This will mean you can trust it won’t affect the water inside and you will be safe to drink water from it.
3. Type of Container
There are two main types of water containers to choose from and they are hard-shell or collapsible. Firstly, hard-shell often means you can go for larger-sized containers and ones that feel stronger and more durable. They also make the perfect choice for those wanting to combine emergency water storage with camping trips, or who go for car camping or RV camping.
A collapsible container is a fantastic choice for those who may have to hike to a camping location, or perhaps want to move around between various locations. As a water container for camping in this situation then they are great because you can pack them away into your backpack and just use normal water bottles whilst moving to a new location.
4. Manufacturer
Fortunately, there are plenty of manufacturers out there who make a fantastic, long-lasting water container for camping trips so you don’t need to worry too much. Some of the well-known manufacturers include Reliance and some will specialise in a collapsible water container or larger rigid type ones for both camping and emergency preparedness. Many will build their products in the USA and use BPA-free and food-grade plastics so you can trust they are safe to use for your family.
5. Price
The next consideration we feel important to bear in mind is price or budget. Everyone will have an idea of the amount they wish to spend but it is important to consider just what your budget will get you. Staying hydrated and keeping a clean, safe supply of water available is important so you don’t want to spend less and end up running out of water. Take the time to do your research and if your budget doesn’t quite reach what you need, think about whether there is an alternative or the long-term gains of investing in a more expensive water container.
Conclusions
Thank you for reading our article on the best water containers for camping on the market right now. Having the right camping gear really does make or break a trip and ensuring you have a clean, safe supply of water is about as important as it can get. Take the time to explore each of the camping water container products on our list and choose one that matches your individual requirements.
If you want to combine a water container with a filtration system or personal water bottle then check out the rest of our website for helpful articles on everything water-related.
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