Imagine a sudden problem: your tap runs dry. Where does your water come from then? Water security is a real concern for many people today. Weather changes and unexpected issues can easily interrupt our daily water supply. Choosing the right way to store water feels overwhelming. Should you use big tanks, small containers, or something else entirely? It is hard to know what fits your home and budget.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best water storage solutions available. You will learn exactly what you need to consider before buying anything. By the end, you will feel confident picking the perfect system for your needs. Get ready to secure your water future!
Top Water Storage Recommendations
- FOOD-GRADE ODORLESS GREAT TASTE: PE plastic made with highest quality USA raw material. Environmentally friendly non-toxic, No BPA PVC or DEHP, No plastic PVC odor and water taste will not be affected, Transparent.
- LIGHT, COMPACT, PORTABLE AND REUSABLE Foldable space saving design store away easily. Remains soft and flexible even when cold yet retains shape and is easy to fill, dry, drain and reuse. Soft molded handles make holding and transport easy. Perfect for outdoor activities like camping, RV, hunting, hiking, backpacking, fishing, picnics, BBQs, sports, festivals, parties and beach.
- WORRY-FREE AND LEAK-PROOF Custom made lid and spigot with gasketless design means no leaks or parts to replace. Good spigot water-flow. Thicker lid to withstand heavy pressure. Easy on/off spigot with controllable flow. Our premium collapsible container is 1-piece design with no seams to leak or handles to break. Durable and dependable.
- EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND DAILY USE Enables you quickly and safely store all the water your family needs in the event of an emergency or natural disaster like hurricane, tornado, earthquake, fire, flood or drought. Include in your Emergency / Survival Kit. Also great for daily use. Dispense right out of refrigerator. Automobile emergency water. Hand-washing stations at events and festivals. Transport large amounts of water easily.
- EBOOK INCLUDED: Included is our 30pg eBook Camping and Emergency Preparedness Survival Guide
- 50-Gallon Capacity: Provides ample storage for harvested rainwater, ideal for watering gardens, lawns, and plants.
- Durable Construction: Made from UV-resistant polyethylene for long-lasting durability and protection from the elements. Made of 100% Recycled plastic.
- Overflow Valve: Built-in overflow valve for managing excess water and the option to connect multiple barrels for increased storage.
- Convenient Spigot: Easy-to-use plastic spigot for quick and efficient water retrieval.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to install and maintain, offering a simple, sustainable solution for homeowners.
- Rigid, 7-gallon rectangular water container with molded contour grip
- Space-saving design for easy storing and stacking when empty. Spigot cap is reversible for safe storage and transport
- New and improved screw-on vent; hideaway spigot for on-demand water dispensing
- Suitable for outdoors activities and emergency water storage
- NOTE: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will cause the water container to degrade and become brittle, increasing the chance of leaks. It is highly recommended to store water containers in cool shaded areas.
- [What’s Included?] With this purchase, you'll receive a 2-pack, 5-Gallon Hedpack with cap, made with Food-Grade & BPA-Free material for brewing, fermenting, or food storage.
- [Leak-Proof & High-Capacity Design] Engineered with a threaded cap and durable build to ensure a secure, spill-resistant seal—ideal for safely storing or transporting up to 5 gallons of liquid
- [Versatile Multi-Purpose Use] Ideal for homebrewing, kombucha fermentation, winemaking, and emergency water storage. These containers also work great as waste oil container or as durable, lightweight alternatives to a 5-gallon glass water jug—ideal for both everyday and specialty liquid storage needs.
- [Smart, Space-Saving Design] This 5-gallon Hedpak offers a durable yet lightweight build with a space-efficient square shape, making it easy to stack and store. It’s a practical upgrade or alternative to a traditional 5gal water jug, complete with secure sealing and graduated markings for accurate filling.
- [Our Commitment to You] At FastRack, we stand behind the quality of our products and the trust our customers place in us. Your experience matters. If your order arrives damaged or incomplete, reach out—we’ll make it right.
- INCLUDED WATER TREATMENT DROPS - Comes complete with water treatment drops that keep your water clean and free from slime buildup for up to 5 years. Simply add them to your filled containers—no need to periodically rotate your water.
- LONG TERM EMERGENCY WATER STORAGE - Made from heavy-duty, BPA-free food-grade plastic, each 5-gallon tank measures 15" x 10" x 12" and weighs about 40 lbs when full. Includes 6 water tanks for a total capacity of 30 gallons.
- STACKABLE WATER STORAGE CONTAINERS - Designed with stackable ribs on top, these food grade water containers lock into place when stacked. Perfect for maximizing storage space in garages, pantries, or storm shelters.
- LIGHT-BLOCKING EXTERIOR - Ideal for long term water storage, the dark blue color of the tanks helps block out light, keeping your water fresh for longer. Great for camping and emergency preparedness.
- CONVENIENT CARRYING HANDLE - Each tank is reusable and includes a built-in handle so it’s easy to fill, move, and manage—even when full. Also includes a strap wrench for securely tightening lids and preventing leaks.
- Large 55-Gallon Capacity: Store a reliable emergency water supply for your home, cabin, or survival kit with this high-volume tank for long-term hydration and utility use
- Stackable Space-Saving Design: Unique built-in grooves and flat surfaces lets you stack multiple tanks securely to maximize storage in garages, sheds, closets or basements
- Durable BPA-Free Plastic: Constructed from food-grade, UV-proof HDPE to help maintain fresh and clean water and shield contents from heat, weather, and outdoor exposure
- Convenient Dispensing System: Integrated spigots and utility valves offer easy access and hose compatibility for hydration, cooking, washing, showering or outdoor cleaning needs
- Built for Preparedness: Made for emergency prep, hunting or fishing properties, disaster readiness, or off-grid living; High-visibility blue tank body color for easy identification
- Easy transport: move water wherever lawn and garden tasks require it with a 40‑gallon translucent poly tank designed for truck, tractor or trailer hauling
- Reliable storage: keep water ready for irrigation, cleaning or emergency use with a chemical‑resistant tank featuring UV protection and durable nitrile seals
- Fast draining: save time during lawn care and garden maintenance using the built‑in 2‑inch drain and molded 3/4‑inch garden‑hose port for quick, controlled emptying
- Versatile capability: support multiple outdoor needs with a tank that can convert to a spot sprayer (additional components required), ideal for watering, cleaning and general lawn care tasks
- Proudly Made in the USA: Expertly designed and manufactured in the USA with global materials, backed by Chapin’s 1-year limited warranty and supported by a dedicated US-based customer service and technical help centre
- Water Jugs: Meticulously crafted from food-grade polyethylene plastic that does not add taste, odor, or chemicals to the water; Water contained in each 5-gallon jug will stay clean
- Portable and Versatile: Camping water just is durable against puncture damage, ideal for outdoor trips to provide a portable solution to accommodate you while you're on the go
- Carrying Handle: 5-gallon water container features a carry handle which makes the transfer from vehicles to campsites and vice-versa easy and convenient for easy moving around and for easier lifting, carrying, pouring
- Reversible Spout: Includes a flexible reversible spout that ensures no spilling or leaks will happen; Also has a cap that resists leaks securing your potable water won't be wasted in storage
- Specifications: Include this in your car camping essentials which can hold 5 gallons or 20 liters of clean water; Outdoor storage for water measures 13.38 inches long by 7.5 inches wide, and 18.88 inches high
The Essential Guide to Buying the Right Water Storage
Having reliable water storage is a smart move. Whether you are preparing for emergencies, setting up an off-grid system, or just need extra water for your garden, choosing the right container matters. This guide helps you pick the best water storage for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for water storage, several features make a big difference in how useful and safe the tank is.
Capacity and Size
- How Much Do You Need? Think about how much water you need daily. A good rule is to store at least one gallon per person, per day, for several days.
- Space Matters: Measure the space where you plan to put the tank. Tall, narrow tanks fit better in small corners, while large, squat tanks offer more volume.
Durability and Lifespan
- Wall Thickness: Thicker walls mean the tank resists punctures and bulging better. Heavy-duty tanks last much longer.
- UV Protection: If your tank sits outside, it must have UV inhibitors. Sunlight breaks down weak plastics quickly, making them brittle.
Ease of Use
- Access Points: Look for large openings for easy cleaning. You must be able to get a brush inside!
- Spigots and Outlets: Check the quality of the valves or spigots. Brass or high-quality plastic fittings resist leaks better than cheap ones.
Important Materials for Water Storage
The material of your water tank affects its safety, cost, and longevity.
Plastic (Polyethylene)
Most common water tanks use food-grade polyethylene (PE). This plastic is generally safe and affordable.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): This is the standard. It is strong and resists many chemicals.
- Color is Key: Always choose opaque (not see-through) containers. Clear containers allow light in, which causes algae growth. Dark blue or black tanks are usually best for outdoor use.
Metal (Stainless Steel or Galvanized Steel)
Metal tanks are very durable and often used for large volumes or pressurized systems.
- Stainless Steel: This is the highest quality. It does not rust and is very easy to keep clean. It is also the most expensive option.
- Galvanized Steel: This is cheaper than stainless steel, but the zinc coating can wear off over time, potentially affecting water quality if not properly maintained.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your stored water relies heavily on the container itself and how you treat it.
Quality Enhancers
- BPA-Free Certification: If you use plastic, ensure it is certified BPA-free, especially if you plan to drink the stored water.
- Seam Integrity: Tanks made from a single piece (seamless) are stronger than tanks assembled from multiple welded pieces.
Quality Reducers
- Recycled Plastics: Avoid plastics of unknown origin. Recycled materials might contain harmful residues.
- Poor Sealing: Any tank that does not seal tightly allows dust, insects, and contaminants to enter the water supply.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the water storage will determine the best style.
Emergency Preparedness (Indoor Use)
For earthquake or storm readiness, portability and stackability are important. Smaller, sturdy plastic containers (like 5- to 7-gallon jugs) are often preferred because they can be moved easily and stored in closets.
Gardening and Rainwater Harvesting (Outdoor Use)
For large volumes needed for irrigation, large cisterns or rain barrels are necessary. These should be opaque, have a sturdy base to handle the immense weight of the water, and include a screen on the inlet to keep out debris.
Off-Grid Living
People living completely off the grid often need huge, permanent tanks (500 gallons or more). These must be installed professionally on concrete pads. The material choice here often leans toward durable polyethylene or large stainless steel tanks.
Water Storage Buying Guide FAQ
Q: Should I store water treated with bleach?
A: Yes, for long-term storage (over six months), adding a small amount of unscented household bleach can help keep the water safe from bacteria. Always follow recommended guidelines for the amount of bleach used.
Q: How often do I need to clean my water storage tank?
A: You should completely empty, scrub, and refill your tank at least once every 6 to 12 months. If the water smells strange or looks cloudy, clean it immediately.
Q: Is it safe to store hot water in a plastic tank?
A: No. Most standard food-grade plastic tanks are not rated for high temperatures. Storing very hot water can warp the plastic and potentially release chemicals. Use specialized insulated metal tanks for hot water storage.
Q: What is the main difference between an IBC tote and a standard barrel?
A: An IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) tote holds much more—usually 275 gallons—and is often square, making it efficient for space. A standard barrel usually holds 55 gallons and is round.
Q: Can I connect my water storage tank directly to my home plumbing?
A: You can connect it to a low-pressure system using gravity feed, but for high-pressure needs (like running showers), you will need a separate water pump installed after the tank.
Q: Why are black tanks sometimes better than blue tanks outside?
A: Black tanks absorb slightly more heat, which can help prevent freezing in very mild cold snaps. However, both black and dark blue tanks effectively block the light needed for algae growth.
Q: Does the color of the plastic matter for drinking water?
A: Yes. The color must be opaque (not see-through). If light gets in, algae will grow, contaminating your drinking supply.
Q: Are used food-grade barrels safe for water storage?
A: Used food-grade barrels are often safe, but you must thoroughly clean them first. Make sure they only held food products (like pickles or syrups) and never hazardous chemicals.
Q: How much does 50 gallons of water weigh?
A: Since one gallon of water weighs about 8.34 pounds, 50 gallons weighs approximately 417 pounds. Always ensure your floor or stand can support this weight!
Q: What is the best way to keep my stored water fresh without chemicals?
A: The best way is to rotate your supply. Use the stored water every six months, and then refill the tank with fresh tap water. This ensures you always have the freshest possible supply.