Imagine a time when clean drinking water is hard to find. It’s a scary thought, right? We turn on the tap every day without a second thought, but what happens when that water stops flowing? Planning for the unexpected is smart. Many people want to store water for emergencies, but choosing the best long-term storage method feels overwhelming. Should you use big barrels, special bags, or something else? Each option has pros and cons, and nobody wants to buy something only to find out it won’t keep water safe for years.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best ways to keep your water fresh and safe for the long haul. You will learn about different container types, how to treat your water for longevity, and common mistakes to avoid. Stop worrying about spoiled supplies. Keep reading to build a reliable, long-term water storage plan you can trust when you need it most.
Top Long Term Water Storage Recommendations
- 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.
- INCLUDED WATER TREATMENT DROPS - Comes complete with water treatment drops that keep your water clean 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 4 water tanks for a total capacity of 20 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 a full set of 3/4 inch threaded sealed caps, and 1 spigot with prepared caps for easy pouring.
- Water Storage Solution conditioners 55 gallons of water and extends the storage life of emergency drinking water without having to rotate your water every 6-12 months.
- Water Storage Preserver anti-scaling properties makes water storage tank maintenance easy.
- Water Storage Concentrate has been tested and endorsed by a former Commander of Public Health Services, Retired*.
- Scientifically Enginnered with over ten years of research, testing, and development.
- Made in the USA
- TRUSTED WATER PURIFICATION TABLETS - Aquatabs are the world's leading water purification tablets for drinking; the ultimate choice for portable water treatment & emergency drinking water; Removes 99.9999% Bacteria, 99.99% Viruses, & 99.9% Cysts (Giardia).
- FEEL SAFE OUT THERE - Experience rapid water purification with our 397mg tabs; purifies 4 gal in 30 mins; an essential emergency water filter & water purifier for camping; the top choice for water filtration camping gear.
- BE BETTER PREPARED - These lightweight water filter survival tablets are a must for your bugout bag; a key part of portable water filters survival kits; perfect for emergency preparedness & RV water treatment for drinking water.
- ENJOY GREAT TASTING WATER - Our water cleaning tablets have no bad taste, color, or odor, unlike iodine tablets. Get clean hydration without the awful iodine taste; pair with a water filter bag or water filter straw survival for sediment.
- HIKING WATER PURIFIER - Trust these emergency water purification tablets as your main hiking water filter; a vital water filter backpacking & water purifier backpacking tool; safer than untreated water. Expiration Date: July 2028
- 5 YEAR STORAGE: The first and only product accepted and proven safe for 5-year water storage!
- 12 YEARS OF TESTING: Proven effective in over 12 years of testing and use!
- PROPRIETARY FORMULA Long term water supply, earthquake kit water, water stabilizer, water earthquake
- GMP FACILITY: Safe Long term water storage, water storage barrels, not like water purifying tablets
- MADE IN THE USA: Better then water tablets survival, water treatment tablets, purification kit
- 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.
- Designed to hold a substantial volume of water, this container supports everyday storage needs at home, during travel, or for general preparedness use.
- The structured shape allows multiple containers to be stacked securely, helping save space in storage rooms, garages, closets, or utility areas.
- Built for repeated refilling, this container offers a practical option for long-term water storage without disposable packaging.
- Made from sturdy plastic material designed for regular handling, lifting, and storage in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments.
- The built-in handle allows controlled lifting and transport, making it easier to move the container when needed.
- EMERGENCY DRINKING WATER POUCHES: Mayday ready to drink water has a 5 year shelf life. Prevent hydration with Mayday water pouches. This bulk emergency drinking water pack includes 50 cartons. Lightweight cartons help make carrying easier rather than bottled water.
- AIRTIGHT POUCHES: Purified, sterilized, and sealed in airtight pouches. This purified water contains no additives or preservatives. Great for storing in case of disasters and emergencies. Offers a longer shelf life and won’t break down like plastic bottles.
- TEMPERATURE RESISTANT: Can withstand temperatures ranging from 40 F to 230 F. Great for camping supplies, emergency food supply, camping supplies or go bags. A great addition to a survival food supply or an emergency food supply.
- LEAK-PROOF POUCHES: Purified by reverse osmosis to meet U.S. Pharmacopoeia standards and sealed in sanitized leak-proof pouches. Perfect for schools, boats, homeless, offices, shelters, vehicles, boats or RVs.
- Complies with ISO 18813:2022. Offers a longer shelf life and won’t break down like plastic bottles.
The Essential Guide to Long Term Water Storage
Having a supply of safe drinking water is crucial for emergencies or even just for camping trips. When you plan for long-term water storage, you need the right gear. This guide helps you pick the best containers and systems for keeping your water fresh for months or years.
Key Features to Look For
Good water storage goes beyond just a bucket. Look for these features:
1. Durability and Structure
- Strength: Containers must hold heavy water without cracking or bulging. A gallon of water weighs about 8.3 pounds!
- Stackability: If space is tight, choose containers that stack well on top of each other.
- Portability: Smaller, sturdy containers with good handles make moving water easier when needed.
2. Light and Oxygen Blocking
Sunlight and air hurt water quality over time. The best containers block these out completely.
- Opaque Walls: Choose containers that are not clear. Dark blue or black is usually best.
- Airtight Seals: The lid must seal tightly to keep air and contaminants out.
3. Ease of Use
You need to get the water out easily when disaster strikes.
- Wide Mouths: These allow you to clean the inside of the container easily.
- Spigots/Taps: For large barrels, a built-in spigot makes pouring clean water much simpler.
Important Materials for Water Storage
The material of your container matters a lot for safety and longevity.
Food-Grade Plastics (The Most Common Choice)
Most long-term storage uses plastic. Make sure it is specifically rated for food use.
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene): Look for the recycling symbol #2. This material is tough, resists cracking, and is safe for drinking water storage. It is widely used for water barrels.
- BPA-Free: Always check that the plastic is BPA-free. BPA is a chemical that some plastics release, which we want to avoid in drinking water.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is very durable and lasts forever. However, it costs much more than plastic and can be heavy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Water Storage Quality
How you store your water determines how long it stays safe.
Quality Boosters:
- Treating the Water: Adding a small amount of unscented, plain bleach (check expiration date!) or water purification tablets keeps bacteria away. Follow instructions carefully.
- Cool, Dark Location: Store containers in a basement or closet where the temperature stays cool and consistent. Heat speeds up plastic breakdown.
Quality Reducers:
- Direct Sunlight: Sunlight causes plastic to degrade faster and encourages algae growth inside. Never store water near a sunny window.
- Reusing Old Containers: Do not use old milk jugs or non-food-grade containers. They might have invisible residues that contaminate your stored water.
User Experience and Use Cases
Different situations call for different storage solutions.
Small Scale (Short Term or Portability)
For camping or short outages (3-5 days), use sturdy, refillable water bottles or hydration bladders. These are lightweight and easy to carry in a backpack.
Large Scale (Emergency Preparedness)
For home readiness, 55-gallon water barrels are popular. These are large investments but hold enough water for a family for several weeks. They require a dolly or hand truck to move once full.
Tip: Always rotate your water supply every six months to a year, even if treated. Pour it out, clean the container, and refill it with fresh water.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Water Storage
Q: How much water should I store per person?
A: Experts recommend storing at least one gallon of water per person, per day, for a minimum of three days. Seven to fourteen days is better for true preparedness.
Q: How long can I safely store water in a plastic container?
A: If using sealed, food-grade HDPE containers and storing them in a cool, dark place, water can last five years or more. Treating it with bleach extends this safely.
Q: Can I use tap water directly from the faucet?
A: Yes, you can. If your tap water is safe to drink when you store it, it will remain safe for a long time if the container is sealed well. Treating it is optional but adds safety.
Q: What is the safest color for water storage containers?
A: Opaque colors like dark blue or black are best. Clear containers allow light in, which promotes algae growth.
Q: What do I do if my water smells musty after storage?
A: If the water smells off, do not drink it. Empty the container, wash it thoroughly with soap and water, and refill it with fresh, treated water.
Q: Are water bricks better than big barrels?
A: Water bricks are great for small spaces because they are flat and stack neatly. Barrels hold much more water, making them better for long-term family needs.
Q: Should I clean the container before filling it?
A: Yes, always clean new containers before first use. For refilling old containers, wash them well with a mild soap solution, rinse completely, and then treat the fresh water.
Q: Does temperature really affect storage time?
A: Yes, heat is a major enemy. High temperatures break down plastics faster and can cause chemicals to leach into the water. Keep storage below 70°F if possible.
Q: What is the difference between food-grade and non-food-grade plastic?
A: Food-grade plastic is made without harmful chemicals that might leach out. Non-food-grade plastic, like some buckets used for paint or chemicals, should never touch drinking water.
Q: How do I know if my water purification tablets work after years of storage?
A: Tablets have expiration dates. If you use tablets, check the date and replace them if they are expired. For long-term storage, using a small amount of unscented bleach is often easier to track.