Imagine this: A storm knocks out the power for days, or maybe you need fuel for a crucial trip months from now. You reach for your stored gasoline, only to find it has turned gummy, or worse, your old container has leaked and created a dangerous mess. Storing fuel safely for the long haul is vital, but it presents real challenges. You worry about vapor leaks, rust, and fuel degradation that can ruin your engine or waste your money.
Choosing the right gas can is more than just picking the cheapest plastic container. The wrong can can lead to dangerous fumes, fire hazards, or fuel that won’t ignite when you desperately need it. Understanding materials, venting systems, and safety standards separates a smart prepper from someone facing a frustrating breakdown.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most in a long-term storage gas can, ensuring your fuel stays fresh and your storage remains safe for years. Keep reading to learn the secrets to reliable, long-term fuel security.
Top Gas Can For Long Term Storage Recommendations
- Easy-to-use 5-gallon gas can to keep your lawnmower, trimmers, and other outdoor power equipment fueled
- Constructed with durable HDPE with a vapor barrier
- FlameShield system features 2 layers of protection from sparking accidental fires
- Spout makes fueling up faster so you can get back to work
- Size: 5 gallons (2 Pack)
- Durable Construction: Built from 0.9mm cold-rolled steel with anti-corrosive coating, this 5-gallon metal gas can is designed for long-lasting performance in tough conditions.
- EPA & CARB Compliant: EO number: G-14-079B-1, this 5-gallon gas can meets strict environmental regulations, legal for use across North America.
- Leak-Proof Design: Equipped with a bayonet-style quick-release nozzle and safety lock, ensuring spill-free and secure fuel transfer.
- Large Capacity: Holds 5 gallons of fuel, perfect for long trips, outdoor adventures, or emergency fuel storage.
- Trusted by Professionals: Used by NATO forces and outdoor enthusiasts, this jerry can is known for its reliability and performance in demanding environments.
- PLASTIC GAS CAN 6 GALLON: Designed for short or long-term storage of gas for fueling equipment or vehicles; this gasoline can is made from durable HDPE plastic with barrier materials to virtually eliminate hydrocarbon emissions
- FAST & SPILL-RESISTANT: Our Quick-Flow Spout included with this fuel can delivers 2.5x faster flow with an auto shutoff to prevent overfilling or spills; the automatic closing valve ensures no leaks & provides a secure seal for fuel transfer
- SAFE 6 GALLON GAS CONTAINER: Engineered for safety with our exclusive FlameShield Safety System; a two piece system comprised of our internal flame mitigation device and our vapor locking Quick-Flow Spout that provides a double layer of protection
- ENHANCED STABILITY & EASY LIFTING: Gasoline container features a wide base and low center of gravity to reduce tipping risks for secure storage and transport; while two ergonomic handles ensure hassle-free lifting, carrying, and precise pouring
- MEETS CARB & EPA STANDARDS: This fuel container exceeds California Air Resources Board (CARB) and EPA regulations, ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards; backed by a 1-year warranty for added peace of mind and reliability
- PLASTIC 6 GALLON WATER CONTAINER: Offers a 6-gallon (23-liter) capacity, perfect for storing water for camping or outdoor use; made from durable HDPE plastic for exceptional strength, durability, and chemical resistance
- EASY SPILL-FREE POURING: The water camping container features a built-in spout for accurate, controlled pouring, reducing spills and waste; it simplifies handling large, heavy containers like a 6-gallon jug and eliminates the need for funnels
- BPA FREE WATER JUG: Made from safe materials that won’t alter the taste, odor, or purity of your water; free of BPA to prevent harmful chemical leaching, ensuring your water stays clean and safe to drink
- STABILITY & EASY LIFTING: Features a wide base and low center of gravity to reduce tipping risks for secure storage and transport; two ergonomic handles ensure hassle-free lifting, carrying, and precise pouring for this portable water container
- LONG TERM DRINKING WATER STORAGE CONTAINERS: Designed to safely hold and store water for long periods of time for emergencies, camping, or remote areas with limited access to water
- PRESERVES FUEL: This fuel stabilizer ensures keeps gasoline fresh for up to 24 months for storing vehicles that are not in use, boats, outdoor power equipment during winter months, or stocking up on fuel.
- PREVENTS CORROSION: Safeguard your engine & fuel system from the detrimental effects of both ethanol & non-ethanol fuels. Maintaining the integrity of fuel system components, it ensures optimal performance & longevity, promoting a healthier fuel system.
- EASY STARTS: Guarantees quick & easy starts for your equipment & vehicles, providing peace of mind when storing them. With its reliable performance, you can confidently store your items, knowing they will start smoothly whenever needed.
- DIRECTIONS: Pour contents directly into the fuel tank before adding gasoline. Use 1 oz of STA-BIL Storage for every 2.5 gallons of gas. After adding the fuel, run the engine for 5 minutes to treat the entire fuel system.
- EXPIRATION DATE: 2 years from the opening of product, or 5 years from date of production (5-digit code on the back of the bottle; read as YYDDD). YY indicates the year of production. DDD represents the number of the day of that year of production.
- 【PERFECT FIT, EXTRA-LONG SPOUT FOR EASIER POURING】: The KILWANI upgraded gas can spout replacement is compatible with most 1/2/5/10-gallon plastic gas cans, fitting oil jug mouth sizes ranging from 1.7 to 1.82 inches. The extended 8.1-inch gas can nozzle length ensures greater convenience and pouring flexibility.
- 【SUPER DURABLE, BENDS BUT WON'T BREAK】: Crafted from premium high-density polyethylene (HDPE), our gas can nozzle replacement guarantees exceptional durability. The gas can spouts eliminate all weak points that might compromise strength. Bend the nozzles any way you need - they simply won't break.
- 【LEAK-PROOF DESIGN】: Our replacement gas can spout incorporates a spill-proof design that ensures a mess-free refueling experience. The nozzles and caps feature threaded connections, with the nozzle cap containing a thickened rubber sealing ring. Simply tighten the HEXAGONAL cap after use - NO SPILLS, even during transportation.
- 【VERSATILITY AT ITS BEST】: Our gas can replacement spout is designed to cover a wide range of fuel can. We offer two types of gas can vent caps to accommodate different needs. Vent cap A: Perfect for oil cans WITHOUT a vent at the end and requires a simple drilling and installation process. Vent cap B: Suitable for replacement on barrels WITH a vent cap at the top.
- 【INSTALLATION IS A BREEZE】: Each replacement gas spout kit includes everything you need: 1 installation manual, 6 screw collar spout caps (3 coarse-thread & 3 fine-thread), 3 hoses with rubber gaskets, 3 threaded nozzle caps, 2 types of gas can vent caps, and even the drill bit required for installing Vent Cap-A. Should you need any assistance during installation or use, we're always here to help.
- Thumb button control for precise pouring
- 7/8-inch funnel spout fills even the smallest equipment
- Attached dust cover keeps your spout clean
- Integrated 20 mesh stainless steel screen
- 【Meet Multiple Uses】The Funnels set includes 1 large flexible long funnel and 4 regular plastic funnels，can meet different needs in your daily life.
- 【Long hose for Oil Change】The automotive funnel with tube can effectively solve the problem that the funnel spout cannot reach the oil tank.
- 【Thoughtful Design】The car oil funnel with a removable mesh screen filter strainer is good for filtering foreign objects while you are changing the engine oil gas or coolant.
- 【Rapid Filling】Wide mouth funnel with large spout allows the liquid to pass through the fuel funnel quickly, so you don't have to worry about spilling.
- 【Handle Design】The gas funnel with a handy handle on the gas funnel side, so you can easy to stabilize the long neckl funnel by one hand while you change the gas or antifreezer .
Choosing the Best Gas Can for Long-Term Storage
Storing fuel safely for a long time needs the right equipment. A good gas can keeps your gasoline or diesel fresh and prevents dangerous leaks. This guide helps you pick the perfect container for your needs, whether for emergencies or lawnmowers.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a gas can for storage, certain features matter most. These details ensure safety and fuel quality over months.
- **Certification and Approval:** Look for cans approved by safety groups like UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or CARB (California Air Resources Board). These labels mean the can meets strict safety standards.
- **Venting System:** Good cans have two openings. One for pouring and one for venting. The vent lets air in as you pour fuel out, preventing glugging and making the process smoother. For long-term storage, a quality seal on the vent cap is crucial to stop fumes escaping.
- **Spill-Proof Spout:** A spout that seals tightly when closed is non-negotiable. Many modern cans use a “thumb-lever” or self-sealing mechanism. This keeps fuel in if the can tips over.
- **Capacity:** Cans come in various sizes, usually 1 to 6 gallons. Choose a size you can easily carry when full. Smaller cans are easier to manage but require more frequent refills.
Important Materials for Durability
The material of the gas can directly affects how long it lasts and how safe it is.
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Plastic: Most modern cans use HDPE. This material is strong, lightweight, and resists corrosion. For gasoline storage, the plastic must be colored red (or yellow for diesel). Always check that the plastic feels thick and sturdy, not flimsy.
Metal (Steel): Traditional metal cans offer excellent durability and are often preferred for very long-term storage, especially if you worry about plastic degradation over many years. However, metal cans can rust if the interior coating wears away or if water gets inside. They also need proper venting to avoid pressure buildup.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the material; it’s about the design.
Quality Improvement: Look for cans with built-in baffles inside the container. These internal supports stop the can from bulging or collapsing under pressure changes caused by temperature swings. Good quality cans also feature easy-to-read measurement markers on the side.
Quality Reduction:** Cheap, uncertified cans often have thin walls and poor seals. These cans can crack over time, especially when exposed to sunlight or extreme cold. A poor vent design will lead to the can bulging when hot, which is a major safety hazard.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the can shapes your best choice.
Emergency Preparedness: If you are storing fuel for a power outage, you need a can that seals perfectly and sits safely in a garage or shed for months. Consider adding a high-quality fuel stabilizer to the gas inside any can to keep it usable for up to a year or more.
Lawn and Garden Equipment: For smaller tools like trimmers or chainsaws, a 1- or 2-gallon can is ideal. The user experience here focuses on the spout. A long, narrow spout makes it much easier to pour fuel into small engine tanks without spilling.
Vehicle Backup: If you keep fuel in your vehicle for emergencies, safety is paramount. Choose a shorter, wider can that is CARB-approved. These cans are designed to handle vibration and movement better than tall, narrow models.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Long-Term Gas Can Storage
Q: How long can I safely store gasoline in a new can?
A: Without a stabilizer, gasoline typically lasts 3 to 6 months. With a quality fuel stabilizer added, you can safely store it for 12 months or longer in a sealed, approved container.
Q: Should I store diesel and gasoline in the same type of can?
A: No. You must use different colored cans. Diesel usually goes in yellow cans, and gasoline goes in red cans. This prevents dangerous mix-ups.
Q: Can I store fuel in plastic cans in direct sunlight?
A: Never store fuel in direct sunlight. Heat causes the fuel to expand and build pressure, which can damage the can or cause leaks. Always store cans in a cool, dry, and shaded area.
Q: What is the biggest safety risk with old gas cans?
A: The biggest risk is pressure buildup leading to leaks or rupture. Secondly, old, degraded gasoline can clog the carburetor of the equipment it is meant for.
Q: Are metal cans better than plastic for long-term storage?
A: Metal cans are very durable against punctures. However, modern, thick HDPE plastic cans with good seals often perform better against rust and are lighter to handle.
Q: Why does my new can smell strongly of gasoline?
A: Plastic cans naturally “breathe” slightly, allowing some odor out. This smell should lessen after a few days of being properly sealed in a well-ventilated area.
Q: What does CARB compliance mean for me?
A: CARB compliance means the can has advanced vapor-locking technology to prevent harmful fuel fumes from escaping into the air, which is better for safety and the environment.
Q: How often should I check my stored fuel?
A: Inspect the cans every 3 to 6 months. Look for cracks, check that the caps are tight, and make sure the can is standing upright.
Q: Can I use regular water jugs for storing fuel?
A: Absolutely not. Water jugs are not designed to hold flammable liquids. They will break down, leak, and create a serious fire hazard.
Q: Is it okay to store cans on their side?
A: No. Always store gas cans upright. Storing them on their side increases the chance of leaks around the spout, vent, and seals.