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10 Best Water Containers for Camping in 2022 (Outdoor Guide-Reviewed)

Whenever you go on a camping trip, you will want an easy way to get fresh and delicious water. After all, you'll spend more time outside and doing physical activities than usual, making hydration important. If you plan to go camping with a group, you may want to get a water container for camping as an easy way for everyone to enjoy some water.


You have a couple of things to consider when picking a water container, so we made a list of our 10 best choices! We chose Igloo container as number one since it does a great job of maintaining temperature while providing conveniences, such as handles and cup dispensers. Read on to see the rest of our choices, and scroll down to our buying guide (reviewed by an outdoor guide) for helpful shopping tips.

Last updated 09/26/2023
Eugene Pak
Expert
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

My name is 박 (Pak). I am a first-generation Korean American who has worked in the outdoors for 6 years as a guide. Now I'm enjoying traveling around with my bicycle and spending time outdoors with my dog Gaara.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Water Containers For Camping

As you look at these water containers, you will notice they are made from different types of plastic, have various spigots, and even vary in size! If you want to understand what these differences offer, continue reading.

1

Decide Between Polyethylene and Polypropylene Containers

Most water containers are made out of polyethylene or polypropylene, so we wanted to point out the pros and cons of each!

Polyethylene for Warm Weather

Polyethylene for Warm Weather

You will mostly come across containers, both solid and collapsible, made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Most polyethylene fittings tend to leak, meaning if you don’t secure them properly, the water could drain out.


Luckily, HDPE is great at resisting heat, making it a good option for camping trips since the container will most likely be outside. It's also a stiff and durable material, so it won't break as easily. You may want a polyethylene container if you plan to leave it outside during your camping trip.

Polypropylene for Heavy Loads

Polypropylene for Heavy Loads

Polypropylene is another type of plastic commonly used for water storage, though it's usually used in bulkier materials. However, it can become damaged from UV exposure and high temperates.


On the other hand,  it has excellent durability since it can resist tons of weight, making it ideal for storing water. It also doesn't react to liquids, so water and rain won't cause it to degrade or weaken. Polypropylene might be the right option if you plan to bring lots of water on your camping trip since it does a great job storing it.

2

Pick Between Different Container Spigot Types

Most water containers have button or lever spigots. We will explain the differences so that you can figure out which type will meet your needs the best.

Button Spigots for More Control

Button Spigots for More Control

Some spigots have a button on them that you press to let the water flow out of the container. Unfortunately, you need to hold the button down the whole time, making it difficult to get the water out if you need to tilt the container.


However, you have more control over the water since it will immediately stop as soon as you let go of the button. This means you won't leave it slightly on like you might with a lever spigot. You can also control how much water comes out based on how hard you press the button.

Lever Spigots for Convenience

Lever Spigots for Convenience

Other spigots have you move a lever to release water from the container. You have to be mindful of the lever’s position since water will leak out if you leave it slightly up. This means if someone forgets to put it back down all the way, it could slowly leak without anyone realizing it.


Luckily, you don't have to hold the lever up, making it more convenient. It's also easier to tilt water out of the container since you don't need to hold down a button. 

3

Seek Other Convenient Features for Camping

You will come across different features for water containers, like collapsible ones and handles, so let's see how each one can benefit your camping experience!

Collapsible Containers to Save Space, Solid Ones for Durability

Collapsible Containers to Save Space, Solid Ones for Durability

Collapsible containers can be flattened after you use them. They are more prone to punctures since the layer of plastic isn’t as thick or dense as solid ones. Otherwise, they offer good durability and easy storage since they take up less space when you collapse them.


On the other hand, solid containers will always keep their shape. Since they stay the same size, they are more difficult to carry and store


However, they have thicker outer layers, making them much less likely to get cracks or punctures. Thicker containers may also have a layer of foam in the middle, which helps insulate the water to maintain its temperature.

Handles to Tilt and Carry the Container

Handles to Tilt and Carry the Container

Lots of water containers have handles on the sides or top of them to make carrying easier. The handle is usually part of the container, so it will ruin the entire jug if it breaks off. If this is a concern, check the customer reviews to see how the handle holds up.


However, you will have an easier time carrying a full container if you have a handle, especially if you're transporting it over long distances. You can also use the handle to hold onto the container when you need to tip some water out of it.

Small Lids to Avoid Large Spills, Big Lids for Convenience

Small Lids to Avoid Large Spills, Big Lids for Convenience

Depending on the container you choose, it may have a small or large lid. A small lid is big enough to fill your container with a faucet, while a large lid can fit your hand inside of it.


Small lids are much more difficult to clean since you can't fit your hand in them. Luckily, if you don't screw on the lid correctly, it won't leak as much since the water has less area to escape from. Smaller lids are also easier to replace since you can easily find a size that will fit them.


Large lids tend to have a bigger risk of spilling since they can let out more water if you don't put them on correctly. On the bright side, they are easier to fill up since you have more space to work with when you open them. You can also fit your hand in these containers, making them easier to clean.

4

Select a Gallon Capacity and Shape Based on Your Trip

Keep in mind water containers will vary in shapes and sizes, so you should see how much water they carry. You should also look into their shapes, such as cylinders or cubes, to get an idea of the advantages you can expect from them!

Small Containers for Small Group, Big Containers for Long Trips

Small Containers for Small Group, Big Containers for Long Trips

You will need to choose between large and small water containers based on the size of your group or how long you plan to camp. Most containers measure themselves in gallons, so a large one will be around seven gallons while a smaller one will be around three gallons.


Large containers will take up more space at the campsite, and they will be harder to transport. On the other hand, they can last you an entire day, making them a solid option for people who want to avoid refilling the container.


You have to refill smaller containers more often, especially if you have a larger group. However, small ones are great for camping since they aren't as bulky, making them easier to move around. They also weigh less and take up less storage space.

Cubes for Stability, Cylinders to Save Space

Cubes for Stability, Cylinders to Save Space

Water containers are shaped like cubes or cylinders. Cube-shaped containers tend to take up more space on the table or flat surface unless they are shaped like a tall rectangle. If they have this shape, they will have the same advantages as a cylinder container.


However, cube-shaped containers are less likely to fall over since they aren't as tall. They do a great job of remaining stable due to their shorter design that does a better job of distributing the weight of the water.


Cylinder containers are more likely to fall over since they cover less surface while still holding the same weight, giving them less support. On the bright side, they don't take up as much table space. You will also have an easier time grabbing them without handles since they aren't as wide.

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10 Best Water Containers For Camping Ranking

Here are the best Water Containers For Camping, ranked according to 10 Best Water Containers for Camping (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Igloo

Heavy-Duty Seat Top Water Dispenser

Igloo Heavy-Duty Seat Top Water Dispenser 1

$39.37

High Mid

A Solid Container With a Cup Dispenser

2

Coleman

5-Gallon Water Carrier

Coleman 5-Gallon Water Carrier 1

$14.99

Mid

A Heavy-Duty Collapsible Container

3

Coleman

5 Gallon Beverage Cooler

Coleman 5 Gallon Beverage Cooler 1

$32.49

High Mid

A Solid Container Designed to Keep Your Water Cold

4

Arrow Home Products

H2O Oasis Dispenser

Arrow Home Products H2O Oasis Dispenser 1

$15.15

Mid

A Solid Container With a Slim Design for Easy Storage

5

WaterStorageCube

Collapsible Water Container With Spigot

WaterStorageCube Collapsible Water Container With Spigot 1

$11.67

Low Mid

A Collapsible Option With Three Size Options

6

Reliance Products

Jumbo-Tainer 7 Gallon Jerry Can

Reliance Products Jumbo-Tainer 7 Gallon Jerry Can 1

$35.18

High Mid

A Durable Design With a Unique Shape for Easy Storage

7

Redcamp

Portable Water Container with Spigot for Camping

Redcamp Portable Water Container with Spigot for Camping 1

$31.99

High Mid

A Unique Spigot Alongside Additional Accessories

8

Gowithwind

Collapsible Water Container With Spigot

Gowithwind Collapsible Water Container With Spigot 1

$11.66

Low Mid

Collapsible Tank With an Additional Pipe and Handle

9

GSI Outdoors

Collapsible Water Cube

GSI Outdoors Collapsible Water Cube 1

$9.95

Low Mid

An Ultra-Portable Option With Two Sizes Available

10

Coghlan's

Collapsible Water Container

Coghlan's Collapsible Water Container 1

$12.99

Low Mid

A Camping Water Container Focused on Flexibility

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

IglooHeavy-Duty Seat Top Water Dispenser

Heavy-Duty Seat Top Water Dispenser 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$39.37
High Mid
Reference price
$39.37
High Mid

A Solid Container With a Cup Dispenser

This solid container stands out since you can purchase it in five- or 10-gallon sizes. It includes handles on both sides of the container, making it easier for you to carry it around the campsite. As an added bonus, it has a cup holder on the side for those who want to use disposable cups.


A couple of reviewers brought up problems concerning water leaking from the top lid. However, lots of buyers said the container works well for various beverages, including water. They also liked the container's sturdy design and said it goes a good job keeping liquids cold.

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Coleman5-Gallon Water Carrier

5-Gallon Water Carrier 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
Mid
Reference price
$14.99
Mid

A Heavy-Duty Collapsible Container

This container is made of heavy-duty plastic that maintains its shape when you fill it with water or collapse it. Instead of a lift lever, it has a twist lever that you simply turn clockwise to get water out. The cap is also big enough for you to add ice cubes into the container.


Some reviewers brought up issues with the spigot dispensing the water slowly. Overall, however, most reviewers said this container is durable and holds up well. They also felt that its study and collapsible design works well for scouting trips and camping.

No.3

Coleman5 Gallon Beverage Cooler

5 Gallon Beverage Cooler 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$32.49
High Mid
Reference price
$32.49
High Mid

A Solid Container Designed to Keep Your Water Cold

This option comes with two handles on each side of the container, making it easy to grip and carry. It features a large lid on top, allowing you to easily pour water into the dispenser. Due to this design, you don't have to worry about water leaking out of the top of the container.


A few reviewers brought up concerns with the spigot leaking water when they started using it. Despite that point, plenty of reviewers noticed that it keeps water cold for hours or even days. They also said the button spigot is easy to use, even for kids.

No.4

Arrow Home ProductsH2O Oasis Dispenser

H2O Oasis Dispenser 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.15
Mid
Reference price
$15.15
Mid

A Solid Container With a Slim Design for Easy Storage

This BPA-free small container has a taller design, allowing you to easily store it on a table or flat surface. The lid on top makes it easy to fill the container since it's large enough to fit most nozzles. Plus, its opening is big enough to add ice.


Some reviewers had problems with the container leaking from the spigot despite them tightening it. Even though they faced this problem, plenty of reviewers felt the plastic itself was durable. They also enjoyed the thin design that lets them easily store it away. Plus, they appreciated that it's easy to clean.

No.5

WaterStorageCubeCollapsible Water Container With Spigot

Collapsible Water Container With Spigot 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.67
Low Mid
Reference price
$11.67
Low Mid

A Collapsible Option With Three Size Options

This BPA-free product focuses on having a soft and flexible feel to match its collapsible nature. The container is designed to neatly fold inward, allowing you to flatten it when needed. As a bonus, it has a handle on its front, making it easier to grip when you need to tilt it.


A couple of reviewers mentioned issues with the container slowly leaking. On the bright side, plenty of reviewers noticed the spigot provides good water flow. They also noticed the cube design made it easy to store the container for later use. 

No.6

Reliance ProductsJumbo-Tainer 7 Gallon Jerry Can

Jumbo-Tainer 7 Gallon Jerry Can 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$35.18
High Mid
Reference price
$35.18
High Mid

A Durable Design With a Unique Shape for Easy Storage

Instead of the standard cube or round shape, this container has a rectangular shape that takes up less space on a table. It includes handles on the front and top of the water container, making it easy to transport and tilt whenever you need to.


A few reviewers noticed their spigots tend to leak, even when they tightened it as much as possible. On the other hand, plenty of reviewers said the container is a great size, saying it fits in many places. They also reported that they could transport it without the material breaking or cracking.

No.7

RedcampPortable Water Container with Spigot for Camping

Portable Water Container with Spigot for Camping 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$31.99
High Mid
Reference price
$31.99
High Mid

A Unique Spigot Alongside Additional Accessories

If you want a unique spigot, this container has one you turn instead of the usual button or lever. The container includes an air inlet plug, letting you release pressure and air from the container. It also comes with a hose and sealing ring if you want to use them.


A couple of reviewers had problems with the spigot leaking water when they filled it up. However, a lot of reviewers said the container was easy to clean due to the large lid. They also enjoyed that the manufacturer includes spare parts in case anything breaks.

No.8

GowithwindCollapsible Water Container With Spigot

Collapsible Water Container With Spigot 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.66
Low Mid
Reference price
$11.66
Low Mid

Collapsible Tank With an Additional Pipe and Handle

This BPA-free container includes a lever spigot and telescopic pipe for easy draining. The container has lids you can turn open and closed to prevent leaks from the spigot. This also includes an outer lid you can use to easily refill the water container.


A few reviewers had problems with the product leaking after they used it. However, many reviewers liked how well it collapses, saying it's easy to flatten and store. They also noted that it's easy to use and tip due to the extra handle included.

No.9

GSI OutdoorsCollapsible Water Cube

Collapsible Water Cube 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.95
Low Mid
Reference price
$9.95
Low Mid

An Ultra-Portable Option With Two Sizes Available

This is a collapsible container with a lever spigot and a handle to transport your water. You turn the lever to activate it, making it easier for you to dispense water. You can purchase it in 2.6- or 5.3-gallon sizes.


A few reviewers brought up problems with the container cracking or getting holes in it, causing leaks. On the other hand, plenty of reviewers enjoyed its compact design, saying it's easy to carry it while collapsed. They said it worked well for both drinking water and as a hand-washing station.

No.10

Coghlan'sCollapsible Water Container

Collapsible Water Container 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$12.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$12.99
Low Mid

A Camping Water Container Focused on Flexibility

The container includes an opening to make it easy for you to add ice cubes. It has a front handle and is made from plastic that can handle extreme temperatures. It also has a flexible collapsable design for easy storage.


A few reviewers had problems with this container leaking at the seams. Others recommend transporting with the valve pointing up to avoid this. Despite that point, lots of reviewers said it holds up surprisingly well for a collapsable product. They also liked that it doesn't take up a lot of space when they fold it down.

Need Some More Camping Equipment?

Even though people remember to bring the most important camping equipment, they may overlook some of the other details. These lists will give you more camping supplies to help you have a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Buying Guide Reviewed by Outdoor Guide Pak Eugene

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Water Containers For Camping

No. 1: IglooHeavy-Duty Seat Top Water Dispenser

No. 2: Coleman5-Gallon Water Carrier

No. 3: Coleman5 Gallon Beverage Cooler

No. 4: Arrow Home ProductsH2O Oasis Dispenser

No. 5: WaterStorageCubeCollapsible Water Container With Spigot

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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