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10 Best Emergency Water Storage Containers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scepter 10-Pack Military Water Container for Camping/Emergency/Off-Road, 5 Gallon, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Material
Portability
Durability

Most important from
4335 reviews

Material
Made of food-grade, BPA-free plastic, these containers are 100% safe and do not impart any plastic taste to the water after proper airing and washing.
Portability
The containers stack easily and are convenient to carry, making them perfect for camping trips to places like Dry Tortugas National Park, where running water isn't available.
Durability
These water cans are definitely gorilla proof, reminiscent of old Samsonite luggage commercials where they torture-tested the luggage with gorillas.
Ease of Use
With both small and large spouts, these containers are versatile for dispensing different amounts of water, adding to their practicality for various outdoor activities.

The Scepter 10-Pack Military Water Container is designed for those needing reliable water storage, especially in emergencies or outdoor settings. With a substantial 5-gallon capacity per container, it allows for ample water storage, which is crucial for camping trips, off-roading adventures, or emergency preparedness. Made from durable HDPE plastic, these containers are built to withstand harsh conditions and potential impacts, ensuring that your water remains safe from leaks and spills.

Portability is another strong point; the molded-in carrying handle makes it easy to transport the containers wherever needed, adding convenience for users on the go. Additionally, the containers are versatile, suitable for various uses beyond just water, including storage of dry pet food or even smoker pellets, which is a nice feature for those with diverse needs.

The containers are BPA-free, addressing safety concerns. The 10-pack option is great for families or serious outdoor enthusiasts, but it may be more than what casual campers need.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,113
Material
Portability
Durability

Most important from
4335 reviews

Material
Made of food-grade, BPA-free plastic, these containers are 100% safe and do not impart any plastic taste to the water after proper airing and washing.
Portability
The containers stack easily and are convenient to carry, making them perfect for camping trips to places like Dry Tortugas National Park, where running water isn't available.
Durability
These water cans are definitely gorilla proof, reminiscent of old Samsonite luggage commercials where they torture-tested the luggage with gorillas.
Ease of Use
With both small and large spouts, these containers are versatile for dispensing different amounts of water, adding to their practicality for various outdoor activities.
#2

Scepter Portable Plastic Military Style Food Grade 5 Gal Water Jug Container with Reversible Spout for Camping & Emergency Storage, 8 Pack, Blue

Rating
8.8
Durability
Ease of Use

Most important from
1016 reviews

Durability
The water jugs offer strong durability that exceeds expectations, making them highly reliable for tough conditions.
Ease of Use
These containers are easy to use when adding fresh water to trailers or during travel, enhancing convenience.

The Scepter Portable Plastic Military Style Water Jugs come in an 8-pack, each holding 5 gallons of water, making them a solid choice for emergency or camping water storage when you need to keep a good amount of water on hand. Made from food-grade, BPA-free polyethylene, these containers ensure your water stays safe without any plastic taste or harmful chemicals. The military-style design adds to their durability, helping them resist punctures and rough handling, which is important if you’re transporting them outdoors or storing them for emergencies.

Portability is well thought out with a sturdy handle on each jug and a reversible spout that prevents leaks and spills, so pouring water is less messy and wasteful. Their size (about 19 inches tall and 7.5 inches wide) and weight (around 23 pounds for the 8-pack) make them manageable to carry one at a time, but they might be bulky if you need to move many at once. One thing to note is that these jugs require hand washing for cleaning, which might take a bit of extra effort compared to dishwasher-safe containers.

They score high in safety and durability, but the plastic finish is standard, so they won’t be insulated and water could warm in hot conditions if left in the sun. These jugs are a great fit for campers, hikers, or anyone preparing for emergencies who needs reliable, reusable water storage without complicated features.

Rating
8.8
Durability
Ease of Use

Most important from
1016 reviews

Durability
The water jugs offer strong durability that exceeds expectations, making them highly reliable for tough conditions.
Ease of Use
These containers are easy to use when adding fresh water to trailers or during travel, enhancing convenience.
#3

WaterPrepared 160 Gallon Unique Stackable Utility Water Tank with Large Cap for Easy Filling & 2 Spigots, Fits Through Standard Doorway, Blue (2 Pack)

Rating
8.2
Portability
Durability
Ease of Use

Most important from
141 reviews

Portability
The tanks are bulky but manageable to move through doorways and downstairs with some effort.
Durability
The tanks have held up perfectly without any leaks, and the ball valve spigots work flawlessly.
Ease of Use
Stackability and the inclusion of top fill and side valves make these tanks a convenient storage solution.
Safety
It's essential to clean the interior of the barrels with a bleach solution before filling them to eliminate any odors.

The WaterPrepared emergency water storage tanks come with a substantial capacity of 160 gallons per tank, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to ensure adequate water supply during emergencies or shortages. The tanks are made from high-density polyethylene, which is both BPA-free and FDA/NSF compliant, ensuring that the water stored is safe for drinking. This gives peace of mind knowing that the product is designed for long-term use and can withstand the pressure of stored water over time.

One of the standout features is the integrated spigot system that simplifies access to the water. With a standard garden hose spigot, users can easily draw water as needed, which adds to the convenience of using this storage solution. The inclusion of a 25-foot lead-free hose and a 5-year water treatment option enhances its usability, particularly for those new to emergency preparedness.

However, there are some aspects to consider. The size of the tanks can limit portability; while they are designed to be stored in a backyard or garage, moving them might be difficult for one person, especially when filled. Potential buyers should consider their storage space and the physical demands of handling large tanks before making a purchase.

Rating
8.2
Portability
Durability
Ease of Use

Most important from
141 reviews

Portability
The tanks are bulky but manageable to move through doorways and downstairs with some effort.
Durability
The tanks have held up perfectly without any leaks, and the ball valve spigots work flawlessly.
Ease of Use
Stackability and the inclusion of top fill and side valves make these tanks a convenient storage solution.
Safety
It's essential to clean the interior of the barrels with a bleach solution before filling them to eliminate any odors.

Buying Guide for the Best Emergency Water Storage Containers

When it comes to emergency preparedness, having a reliable water storage solution is crucial. Water is essential for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, especially during emergencies when regular water supplies may be disrupted. Choosing the right emergency water storage container involves considering several key specifications to ensure you have a safe, durable, and practical solution for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of water a container can hold, typically measured in gallons or liters. This is important because it determines how much water you can store for your needs. Smaller containers (1-5 gallons) are more portable and easier to handle, making them suitable for short-term use or for individuals. Medium-sized containers (5-20 gallons) offer a balance between portability and storage capacity, ideal for small families. Larger containers (20+ gallons) are best for long-term storage and larger households but can be more challenging to move. Consider your household size and the duration you need to be prepared for when choosing the capacity.
MaterialThe material of the container affects its durability, safety, and suitability for storing water. Common materials include plastic, metal, and glass. Food-grade plastic is lightweight, durable, and resistant to chemicals, making it a popular choice. Metal containers, such as stainless steel, are highly durable and can protect water from light and contaminants but are heavier and more expensive. Glass containers are safe and do not leach chemicals but are fragile and heavy. Choose a material that balances safety, durability, and ease of use based on your specific needs.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move and transport the container. This is important if you need to relocate or carry the water to different locations. Smaller containers are generally more portable and can be carried by hand, while larger containers may require wheels or handles for easier movement. Consider how often you might need to move the container and choose one that offers the right level of portability for your situation.
DurabilityDurability is the container's ability to withstand physical stress and environmental conditions without breaking or leaking. This is crucial for ensuring your water supply remains safe and uncontaminated. Look for containers made from high-quality, impact-resistant materials that can endure rough handling and extreme temperatures. If you plan to store the container outdoors, ensure it is UV-resistant to prevent degradation from sunlight. Assess the conditions in which you will store the container and choose one that can withstand those conditions.
Ease of UseEase of use involves how simple it is to fill, dispense, and clean the container. This is important for maintaining hygiene and ensuring you can access your water supply when needed. Containers with wide openings are easier to fill and clean, while those with spigots or taps make dispensing water more convenient. Consider features like handles, spouts, and stackability to enhance usability. Choose a container that you can easily manage and maintain, especially during an emergency.
SafetySafety refers to the container's ability to store water without introducing harmful chemicals or contaminants. This is critical for ensuring the water remains safe to drink. Look for containers labeled as food-grade or BPA-free, as these are designed to safely store consumable liquids. Avoid containers that have previously held chemicals or non-food substances. Prioritize safety by selecting containers specifically designed for water storage and certified for food safety.

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