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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 5 Gallon Heavy Duty Military Style HDPE Plastic Water Container for Camping, Off-Roading, Boating, & Emergency Water Storage, (10 Pack), Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,368
Material
Portability
Durability

Most important from
3216 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
9.9
Chosen by1,368
Material
Portability
Durability

Most important from
3216 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

Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue , 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Portability
Durability

Most important from
12434 reviews

Capacity
The Aqua-Tainer's 7-gallon capacity is perfect for both summer AC condensation collection and emergency water storage, offering ample space without being too bulky.
Portability
For camper use, the Aqua-Tainer serves as an effective and portable water supply, operating like a regular sink spigot when positioned correctly.
Durability
Its rigid and durable design ensures it holds up well over time, with users reporting no leaks and a solid build even after prolonged use.
Ease of Use
The handle and spout design make it easy to carry and pour water, although the spout could be slightly easier to open and close when the container is full.
Safety
A notable point is the need to open the vent to avoid collapsing the container, as forgetting this step can lead to damage, although this is user-related rather than a flaw in the product.

The Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer is a 7-gallon rigid water container designed for emergency water storage and outdoor activities. Its rectangular shape and space-saving design make it easy to store and stack when empty. The container features a molded contour grip, which enhances portability despite its large capacity.

For convenience, it includes a reversible spigot cap for safe storage and a hideaway spigot for on-demand water dispensing. The new screw-on vent is an improvement, ensuring better usability. However, a noteworthy drawback is that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can degrade the material, making the container more prone to leaks over time. Hence, it is recommended to store it in cool, shaded areas to maintain its longevity.

The container is fairly lightweight at 1.1 pounds, making it easy to handle when empty. Made from durable materials, it is built to withstand outdoor conditions but does require some care in storage. It comes with a five-year warranty against manufacturer's defects, offering some peace of mind. This water container is particularly suitable for those needing a reliable and portable solution for emergency water storage or for activities like camping and hiking.

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Portability
Durability

Most important from
12434 reviews

Capacity
The Aqua-Tainer's 7-gallon capacity is perfect for both summer AC condensation collection and emergency water storage, offering ample space without being too bulky.
Portability
For camper use, the Aqua-Tainer serves as an effective and portable water supply, operating like a regular sink spigot when positioned correctly.
Durability
Its rigid and durable design ensures it holds up well over time, with users reporting no leaks and a solid build even after prolonged use.
Ease of Use
The handle and spout design make it easy to carry and pour water, although the spout could be slightly easier to open and close when the container is full.
Safety
A notable point is the need to open the vent to avoid collapsing the container, as forgetting this step can lead to damage, although this is user-related rather than a flaw in the product.
#3

Scepter BPA Durable 5 Gallon 20 Liter Portable Military Water Storage Container for Camping, Outdoors and Emergency Management, Sand, 2 Pack

Rating
9.6
Material
Portability
Durability

Most important from
252 reviews

Material
These water cans are definitely gorilla proof and made of food-grade, BPA free plastic, ensuring they are 100% safe.
Portability
Ideal for camping, these containers stack easily and are convenient to carry from the boat, making them perfect for trips to places without running water.
Durability
The containers are extremely durable and sturdy, made with thick plastic that can withstand rough handling.
Ease of Use
The design allows for both small and large spout openings, making it easy to pour just the right amount of water.
Safety
These water cans are definitely gorilla proof and made of food-grade, BPA free plastic, ensuring they are 100% safe.

The Scepter BPA Durable 5 Gallon 20 Liter Portable Military Water Storage Container is a reliable choice for emergency water storage, camping, and outdoor activities. With a significant capacity of 5 gallons (20 liters) per container, it is well-suited for long trips or emergency situations. Made from food-grade plastic, it ensures that the water remains clean and free from harmful chemicals or flavors, which is crucial for safety and health.

The container's ergonomic carrying handle makes it easy to transport, enhancing its portability. Additionally, its wall thickness of 0.10 inches (2.5 mm) and robust design contribute to its durability, ensuring it can withstand outdoor conditions and rough handling. The small spout simplifies the process of filling water bottles, making it user-friendly for various outdoor activities.

On the downside, at 4.33 pounds when empty, it might be slightly cumbersome for some users, especially when filled. However, the containers come in a two-pack, providing a total of 10 gallons of water storage, which is beneficial for extensive use. This product excels in capacity, safety, and portability, making it an excellent choice for those needing a dependable water storage solution for emergencies and outdoor adventures.

Rating
9.6
Material
Portability
Durability

Most important from
252 reviews

Material
These water cans are definitely gorilla proof and made of food-grade, BPA free plastic, ensuring they are 100% safe.
Portability
Ideal for camping, these containers stack easily and are convenient to carry from the boat, making them perfect for trips to places without running water.
Durability
The containers are extremely durable and sturdy, made with thick plastic that can withstand rough handling.
Ease of Use
The design allows for both small and large spout openings, making it easy to pour just the right amount of water.
Safety
These water cans are definitely gorilla proof and made of food-grade, BPA free plastic, ensuring they are 100% safe.

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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