Imagine a sudden emergency where clean drinking water is hard to find. How prepared is your family? Storing water for emergencies is crucial, but choosing the right container can feel overwhelming. You worry about plastic leaching chemicals, containers cracking over time, or mold growing inside. The wrong choice could mean storing water that isn’t safe when you need it most.
Finding containers that are durable, food-grade, and truly last for years requires knowing what to look for. Don’t let confusion leave your water supply vulnerable. This guide cuts through the noise. We will explore the best materials, sizes, and safety features for long-term water storage.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly which containers offer the safest, most reliable solution for your emergency kit. Let’s dive into making sure your water supply stays fresh and ready for the long haul.
Top Containers For Long Term Water Storage Recommendations
- PORTABLE, STACKABLE WATER CONTAINERS: These 5-gallon water containers are designed with flat bottoms and tops that nestle together to help stack more water in less space. The handles make them ideal for moving around, and the built-in twist breathing ports make it easy to pour out the contents of your containers without them getting air locked. This kit includes 4 individual 5-gallon water containers with lids.
- 40 DAYS OF DRINKING WATER: It’s recommended to have half a gallon of water per person per day when preparing an emergency water reservoir for your household. This kit provides 4 containers that are 5 gallons each for about 40 days of washing, cooking, or fresh drinking water storage. The amount of water needed varies by a person’s size and use, and each portable container weighs about 40 lbs. when filled with liquid.
- MADE FROM BPA-FREE HDPE PLASTIC: Our high-quality water containers are made from 100% food-grade plastic, which also makes them useful for storing other liquids or food necessities. They are BPA-free and made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), so you’ll have a safe, durable, refillable water container that can weather any storm.
- IDEAL FOR TRAVEL & EMERGENCY STORAGE: If you’re looking for a reliable water container for emergency storage, camping, boating, or beach trips, or even for a watering station for an outdoor event, this kit is exactly what you need. The handle on each 5-gallon container makes it a breeze to transport, and it can easily stack in the back of your car or truck for road-tripping adventures.
- PREPARE, STORE & SAVE: As a family-founded company with years of experience, we know the importance of preparedness. Our water storage containers and accessories ensure that you’re never without the essentials when you need them the most. We provide high-quality American-made products at the fairest prices possible to help you make the best decisions for yourself and your loved ones.
- 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.
- SMOOTH POURING WITH SPIGOT & VENT CAP - Each container features a large 2 ¼ inch opening and comes with 8 full sets of 3/4 inch threaded sealed caps, and 2 spigots with prepared caps for easy pouring.
- 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.
- PORTABLE, STACKABLE WATER CONTAINERS: These 5-gallon water containers are designed with flat bottoms and tops that nestle together to help stack more water in less space. The handles make them ideal for moving around, and the built-in twist breathing Spigots to make it easy to pour out the contents of your containers without them getting air locked. This kit includes 2 individual 5-gallon water containers with lids and spigot.
- MADE FROM BPA-FREE HDPE PLASTIC: Our high-quality water containers are made from 100% food-grade plastic, which also makes them useful for storing other liquids or food necessities. They are BPA-free and made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), so you’ll have a safe, durable, refillable water container that can weather any storm.
- IDEAL FOR TRAVEL & EMERGENCY STORAGE: If you’re looking for a reliable water container for emergency storage, camping, boating, or beach trips, or even for a watering station for an outdoor event, this kit is exactly what you need. The handle on each 5-gallon container makes it a breeze to transport, and it can easily stack in the back of your car or truck for road-tripping adventures.
- PREPARE, STORE & SAVE: As a family-founded company with years of experience, we know the importance of preparedness. Our water storage containers and accessories ensure that you’re never without the essentials when you need them the most. We provide high-quality American-made products at the fairest prices possible to help you make the best decisions for yourself and your loved one
- Having a smart plan for emergency water is even more important than food storage. Keeping a safe stock of water storage barrels ensures that you and your family are safe, especially during the first 72 hours of an emergency.
- GUATENTEED POTENCY: Must use within 1 year of manufacturing to ensure potency (Expiration Date on Bottle)
- 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 2 water tanks for a total capacity of 10 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.
- SMOOTH POURING WITH SPIGOT & VENT CAP - Each container features a large 2 ¼ inch opening and comes with 3 full sets of 3/4 inch threaded sealed caps, and 1 spigot with prepared caps for easy pouring.
- 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-CAPACITY WATER STORAGE (55 GALLONS): Store enough emergency drinking water for a family of four for up to two weeks. Perfect for preparedness, camping, off-grid living, or disaster response.
- SPACE-SAVING STACKABLE DESIGN: Engineered to stack securely and safely, giving you big-tank capacity without taking up extra floor space—ideal for garages, basements, or sheds.
- ROBUST DESIGN: Manufactured from high-quality rotationally molded polyethylene that’s safe for long-term potable water storage and built to withstand decades of use.
- EASY FILLING, DRAINING & CLEANING: Includes a 5-inch twist lid for quick filling and internal cleaning, plus a built-in brass spigot for simple dispensing and water rotation.
- BUILT TO LAST: Backed by over 70 years of tank-manufacturing experience, our emergency water tanks are tested for strength, leak integrity, and safety—so you can rely on them when it matters most.
- Reliable Water Supply: Our 55-gallon supports families during uncertain times with dependable long-term storage. The food-grade polyethylene design gives households a safe place to keep clean water ready for emergencies. Our water storage solution brings comfort when planning ahead feels important.
- Food-Grade & BPA-Free: Made from BPA-free, food-grade material, it helps to keep stored water clean for daily needs like cooking and hygiene during outages. The drum’s solid build reflects the care Augason Farms puts into every prepared item. It brings steady confidence to our long-term emergency water storage planning when life feels unpredictable.
- Spacious 55-Gallon Capacity: With room for 55 gallons, the water storage tank supports households that want a dependable backup supply. It helps lighten the stress of emergencies by giving plenty of water for drinking, cleaning, and essential tasks. The durable structure makes this plastic barrel easy to rely on over many seasons.
- Easy Fill & Drain Ports: Two built-in plug fittings make filling and accessing water more manageable, even during tense situations. The lightweight feel when empty helps you position it wherever storage space allows. It’s a steady companion for preparedness. Our 55-gallon drum simplifies emergency planning.
- Built for Emergency Readiness: Augason Farms carries decades of experience in supporting families, and the thoughtful details in our drums show that legacy. Our plastic barrel fits naturally into basements, garages, or storage shelves, giving homes a sense of readiness and peace.
- 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
Your Essential Guide to Long-Term Water Storage Containers
Having a reliable supply of clean water is vital for any emergency plan. Choosing the right container makes all the difference in keeping that water safe for years. This guide will help you select the best option for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for long-term water storage, several features matter most. These elements ensure your water stays clean and the container lasts a long time.
1. Opacity and Light Blocking
- Dark Colors are Best: Look for containers that are dark blue, black, or opaque (you cannot see through them).
- Why it Matters: Sunlight helps algae and bacteria grow, even in sealed containers. Opaque walls block light, keeping the water fresh longer.
2. Sealing Mechanism
- Tight-Fitting Lids: The lid must seal very tightly. Air and contaminants can enter through poor seals.
- Gaskets: High-quality containers often include rubber or foam gaskets inside the lid for an extra-secure, watertight lock.
3. Durability and Stackability
- Thick Walls: Ensure the plastic walls are thick. Thin walls can crack if dropped or stacked unevenly.
- Stacking Grooves: Many good containers have grooves or ridges on the top and bottom. These allow you to safely stack several full containers without them tipping over.
Important Materials for Safe Storage
The material your container is made from directly impacts safety and longevity. You must choose food-grade materials.
Food-Grade Plastics (HDPE)
Most reliable long-term water containers use High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This plastic is strong and does not react with water.
- Look for the Symbol: Check the bottom of the container for the recycling symbol ‘2’ inside a triangle. This usually means it is HDPE.
- BPA-Free: Always ensure the container is labeled “BPA-Free.” BPA is a chemical that can leach into water over time, which is unsafe.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel drums offer supreme durability and zero risk of leaching. They are often more expensive but last indefinitely if cared for properly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Container quality isn’t just about the material; it’s also about how it’s manufactured and used.
Quality Boosters:
- UV Protection: Some plastics have UV inhibitors added to resist sun damage if they must be stored in a garage or shed that gets some light.
- Wide Mouth Opening: A wider opening makes cleaning the inside much easier before filling.
Quality Reducers:
- Previously Used Containers: Never use containers that once held chemicals, soaps, or oils. Even after rinsing, residues can remain and contaminate your drinking water.
- Thin Walls: Very cheap, flimsy plastics degrade quickly and are prone to splitting under the weight of the water.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the water affects the best container shape.
For Emergency Shelves (Long-Term Static Storage):
Large, rectangular 55-gallon barrels are excellent for bulk storage in a basement or garage. They hold a lot of water but are difficult to move once full.
For Portability (Bug-Out Bags or Camping):
Smaller, one to five-gallon jugs are better. They are easier to carry and distribute among family members. These are often used for shorter-term storage (up to a year) or for water you plan to rotate more frequently.
Always remember to label your containers with the date you filled them. Rotate stored water every 6 to 12 months by using it for gardening or flushing toilets, then refilling with fresh water.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Water Storage Containers
Q: How long can water safely stay in a new, sealed container?
A: If stored in a cool, dark place, water in good quality, sealed containers can safely last five years or more. However, it is best practice to rotate it every year.
Q: Should I treat the water before storing it?
A: Yes. Always use clean, potable (drinkable) water. Adding a small amount of unscented household bleach (following EPA guidelines) helps keep the water fresh during storage.
Q: What is the best color for a water storage container?
A: Dark blue or black opaque containers are the best because they block light effectively.
Q: Can I store water in clear plastic soda bottles long-term?
A: No. Clear plastic allows light in, encouraging algae growth. Also, most soda bottles are not designed for long-term storage.
Q: How much space does a 55-gallon drum take up?
A: A standard 55-gallon drum is usually about two feet in diameter and three feet tall. Measure your storage area first.
Q: Is it safe to store water in metal cans?
A: Metal cans can rust internally unless they have a very specific food-safe lining. HDPE plastic is generally safer and easier for home use.
Q: How do I clean the container before I fill it?
A: Wash the container thoroughly with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Rinse it completely several times until no soap smell remains, then fill it.
Q: Does the temperature of the storage area matter?
A: Yes. Extreme heat speeds up the breakdown of plastic and water quality. Keep containers cool, ideally below 70°F (21°C).
Q: What does “BPA-Free” mean?
A: BPA stands for Bisphenol A. It is a chemical found in some plastics that can move into your water. BPA-Free means the plastic does not contain this chemical.
Q: Can I stack full water containers on top of each other?
A: Only if the containers are specifically designed for stacking. Heavy, full containers must be stacked carefully on a level surface to prevent crushing the lower ones.