Hey there campers and welcome to my post where I we will check out my 3 best camping water storage containers to top up with this year. Whether washing our dishes or ourselves, quenching our thirst or even just keeping cool, water is an indispensable resource when we are camping.
And for times where water is not readily available, you may need to bring with you reliable camping water storage. So for those of you looking for a good container, I have had a good look around and come up with 3 good options below. Let’s check them out…
My three recommended camping water storage containers
I will review these in more detail below, but if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
| Water Storage Container | Price | Get it | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Reliance Products Rigid Water Container | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Igloo Portable Sports Cooler | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Scepter Military Water Container | $$$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What are camping water storage containers?
As implied by the name, a camping water storage container helps reduce the workload of fetching water from one place to another by effectively storing it. Good water containers are designed to be lightweight and should be BPA free food-grade lining so that the water is safe for drinking. They are also durable enough to last many camping seasons.
What should you be looking for?
The information below outlines some areas to consider as you look for a good water storage container for camping.
- Type
- Durability
- Capacity
- Portability
- Additions
Type
There are two types of water storage containers available for camping: collapsible and hard-sided.
Hard-sided water carriers are the traditional type. They have a fixed and rigid shape to hold water, depending on their capacity. Water containers with hardened outer shells are more durable compared with collapsible ones.
On the other hand, collapsible water containers have excellent portability. These products are foldable and can be tucked inside your backpacks etc. if not in use. One area of concern, however, is the shape of the container can become unstable as you decrease the water inside.
Durability
This factor rests on the type of material used to manufacture the product. If you are looking for camping water containers, you would commonly find carriers made from either plastic or metal. Either has its own merit in terms of withstanding the harsh environment of the backcountry.
Metallic or steel water containers are indeed durable, but the issue you would have to deal with is how they affect water temperatures. These containers quickly heat up or become cold (even frozen). Plastic camping water storage containers are more capable of keeping your water within a desirable temperature than metal options.
Capacity
Another necessary element that you have to consider is the capacity of water the container can hold. Many factors influence any water container’s capacity:
- Number of campers
- Duration of stay
- Purpose of the water
A container with a capacity of 5 gallons of water will usually suffice for most short camping trips. Buy a tank with 5 gallons or more if you intend to use the water container for emergency backup or to wash your belongings.
Portability
Like all camping gear, water storage containers should be portable so that we can easily transport them to any desired location. Portability also however describes how easily you can keep a product if you are still not using it. As stated, collapsible water containers provide unique portability than hard-shelled water carriers.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Handles: These are necessary for you to lift the container without hurting your hands and fingers comfortably.
- Spigot or cap: These both help in getting the water out of the container. Caps are more durable, especially for long-term use however they are more challenging when pouring water into smaller bottles or handwashing. On the other hand, Spigots are more convenient but more prone to breaking.
- Spout: This is attached to the container’s opening for easy pouring of water.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Reliance Products Rigid Water Container
My first option is a water container with a generous capacity for your camping needs. The material is sturdy and rigid, ensuring long-lasting use of the product and the cap comes with a hideaway spigot which you might need in certain situations. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Reliance Products
- Capacity: 6.86 gallons
- Type: Hard-shelled water container
- Dimensions: 15.59 x 11.5 x 11.26 inches
- Weight: 2.29 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Hideaway spigot
- 5-year warranty
Why have I chosen it?
This product gives you more than 5 gallons of water which is more than enough for your weekend get-away. The material is solid and safe and the rectangular design of the camping water container makes it portable and stackable if not in use. This is a great option for those camping with larger groups.
2. Igloo Portable Sports Cooler
This second product is known for its heavy-duty construction with hardened plastic that protects your drinking water from any contamination. It has a user-friendly design and sturdy lid that you can even sit on if needed. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Igloo
- Capacity: 4.75 gallons
- Type: Hard-shelled water container
- Dimensions: 14.96 x 14.96 x 20.08 inches
- Weight: 5.27 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Seat-top lid
- Reinforced handles
- Drip-resistant spigot
Why have I chosen it?
The water container has a capacity of five liters which is the recommended quantity for camping water carriers. The manufacturers employ drip-resistant spigot addressing any spillage and it can keep your ice cold for three straight days as well. Great for water and other drinks for use over the entire camping trip.
3. Scepter Military Water Container
This last water container for camping is versatile and extremely durable and a favorite choice among outdoor enthusiasts. Despite being made high-impact resistant quality materials, this container is BPA-free as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Scepter
- Capacity: 5 gallons
- Type: Hard-shelled water container
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 6.75 x 19 inches
- Weight: 4.5 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Food grade material
- BPA-free construction
Why have I chosen it?
This final product is crafted from high-quality materials, has no odor and most importantly, does not make the water taste like plastic. The rigid container is ideal for camping, hiking, or other outings and as it’s the same size as a standard gas tank, it should fit perfectly on your camper as well.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best camping water storage containers for all your camping water needs. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
