The 5 Best Water Storage Containers for Long-Term Preparedness

The 5 Best Water Storage Containers for Long-Term Preparedness

Having a secure supply of clean water is the cornerstone of any emergency preparedness plan. While knowing how to find and purify water is essential, having a ready supply of stored water is what will carry you through the critical first days and weeks of a crisis. But not all storage solutions are created equal. The right container can mean the difference between having fresh, safe water and dealing with leaks, contamination, or a container that's impossible to move when you need it most.

Choosing the right container is a critical step in your overall water preparedness strategy. For a complete overview of sourcing, purifying, and storing water, be sure to read our ultimate guide to emergency water purification, storage, and sourcing.

In this article, we'll dive deep into the best containers specifically for long-term storage, helping you make an informed decision based on durability, portability, capacity, and budget.

What to Look for in a Water Storage Container

Before we get to our top picks, it's important to understand the key features that separate a high-quality water container from a cheap plastic jug:

• Material: Look for containers made from food-grade, BPA-free, high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This material is durable, doesn't leach chemicals into your water, and is opaque (usually blue) to block light, which prevents algae growth.

• Durability: Your containers need to withstand being dropped, stacked, and transported. Military-grade or heavy-duty plastics are worth the investment.

• Portability: Consider the weight. Water weighs about 8.34 pounds per gallon. A 5-gallon container weighs over 40 pounds, while a 55-gallon drum weighs over 450 pounds. Choose sizes that you and your family can realistically move if you need to evacuate.

• Seal and Spigot: A secure, leak-proof cap is non-negotiable. A reliable, easy-to-use spigot is also crucial for dispensing water without contamination or waste.

Comparison of Top Water Storage Containers

1. Best Overall: Scepter 5-Gallon Military Water Can

When it comes to a perfect balance of durability, portability, and trusted design, the Scepter Military Water Can is in a class of its own. These are the gold standard for a reason. Made from rugged, thick-walled plastic, they are built to survive drops, rough transport, and years of use. I've personally tested these for over a year, and they show no signs of wear.

The large cap makes filling and cleaning easy, while a smaller integrated spout allows for precise pouring without a separate, easy-to-lose part. While they are more expensive than budget options, their 20-year lifespan and military-tested reliability make them a worthy investment that saves money in the long run.

Pros:

• Extremely durable and impact-resistant

• Excellent cap and pouring design

• Easy to carry and transport

• BPA-free and food-grade

Cons:

Higher initial cost compared to other options

2. Best Budget: Reliance Aqua-Tainer (7 Gallon)

For those building their preps on a tight budget, the Reliance Aqua-Tainer is the most popular and cost-effective option available. Its 7-gallon capacity provides a good amount of water, and the cube shape is efficient for storage.

The standout feature is the hideaway, reversible spigot, which is protected from damage during storage and makes dispensing water simple. However, the lower price comes with a trade-off in durability. The plastic is thinner and more prone to cracking or leaking from drops compared to premium options. It's a great value, but it's wise to have at least one more durable container in your supply as a backup.

Pros:

• Very affordable price point

• Good 7-gallon capacity

• Convenient hideaway spigot

Cons:

• Less durable plastic; can be prone to leaks or cracks if dropped

• Can be heavy and awkward for some to carry when full (nearly 60 lbs)

3. Best for Stacking & Small Spaces: WaterBrick

If you live in an apartment or have limited storage space, the WaterBrick is a game-changer. These 3.5-gallon containers are designed to interlock and stack like building blocks, allowing you to create a stable, high-capacity water supply in a very small footprint.

Their smaller size makes them much easier to carry and move around than larger jugs, with a full brick weighing under 30 pounds. They are made from rugged HDPE plastic and are durable enough to be used for storing dry goods as well. While some users have reported leaking issues, many find them to be a reliable and versatile solution for urban preppers. The AquaBrick is a similar, highly-rated alternative known for superior durability in torture tests.

Pros:

• Excellent stackable design saves space

• Portable and easy to handle when full

• Durable, multi-purpose construction

Cons:

• Higher cost per gallon

• Smaller capacity requires more units

4. Best Large Capacity: 55-Gallon Water Barrel

For stationary, long-term water storage at home, nothing beats the efficiency of a 55-gallon barrel. A single barrel can provide a family of four with enough water for nearly two weeks. These drums are made from thick, food-grade, UV-resistant plastic designed to keep water safe for up to 5 years when treated properly.

Keep in mind that these are not portable; a full barrel weighs over 450 pounds. You will need to fill it in its permanent storage location—ideally a cool, dark place like a basement or garage. You will also need accessories like a bung wrench to open it and a siphon pump to get the water out.

Pros:

• Massive capacity at a low cost per gallon

• Designed for very long-term storage (up to 5 years)

• Durable, thick-walled construction

Cons:

• Completely immobile when full

• Requires separate pump and wrench for access

5. Best for Temporary Emergencies: WaterBOB Bathtub Liner

The WaterBOB is a brilliant solution for when you have advance warning of an impending emergency, like a hurricane or a planned water shutoff. It's a heavy-duty, food-grade plastic liner that you place in your bathtub, capable of holding up to 100 gallons of fresh tap water.

This keeps the water clean and protected from dust and debris, unlike simply plugging the drain. It includes a siphon pump to easily dispense the water. While it's a single-use item and not suitable for long-term pre-storage, it's an invaluable tool for quickly capturing a massive amount of water when you know a crisis is coming.

Pros:

• Holds up to 100 gallons of water

• Keeps water clean and sanitary in a bathtub

• Easy to deploy when an emergency is imminent

Cons:

• Single-use only

• Requires advance warning to be useful

Conclusion

Choosing the best water storage container depends on your space, budget, and specific preparedness plan.

• For a solid, portable solution, the Scepter Military Can is the top choice.

• If budget is your main concern, the Reliance Aqua-Tainer offers the best value.

• For those with limited space, the stackable WaterBrick is the most efficient option.

Ultimately, the best strategy is a diversified one. Combining a large, stationary supply like a 55-gallon barrel with several portable Scepter cans ensures you are prepared for any scenario, whether you need to shelter in place or evacuate.