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Home » Gear » travel water bottles

The Best Travel Water Bottles to Buy in 2024

A reliable, good water bottle is an essential addition to any traveler’s packing list! Not only does a reliable water bottle save your budget, but also helps save this planet from single-use and unnecessary plastic waste.

I’m actually quite passionate about traveling with a reusable water bottle because the travel industry contributes a lot of waste… but that doesn’t mean we have to!

We’ll cover the best travel water bottles below, whether you’re backcountry camping in the mountains or backpacking around the world for months on end.

The sheer amount of reusable water bottle brands means you will have near-endless options depending on your travel priorities. Do you need a durable water bottle? One that keeps your water cold and tea hot? Is weight your main concern? Are you counting ounces on the trails?

Keep on reading to learn more about our recommendations for the best water bottles for travelers.

Quick Answer: What are the best water bottles for travel?

• Best Water Bottle with Filter for Travel – Grayl GEOPRESS Purifier Bottle
• Best Insulated Water Bottle – Hydroflask
• Most Lightweight Water Bottle – Nalgene
• Runner Up Best Filtered Water Bottle – LifeStraw
• Coolest Water Bottle – Klean Kanteen
• Best Collapsible Water Bottle –  HydraPak SkyFlask 500 Water Bottle
• Best Collapsible Water Bottle with Filter – HydraPak Flux 1.5 L Collapsible Water Bottle
• Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle – CamelBAK Fit Cap

Why You Should Travel with a Water Bottle?

So, before we get into the deet on the best water bottles for travel, let’s learn more about why you should have one first.

Anyone who travels to oceanfront destinations has probably seen the horrific amount of plastic that wipes up onshore and floats through the water. 100,000 animals die every year by eating or becoming entangled in plastic.

The worst part? It will take lifetimes for this plastic to decompose, if it doesn’t end up in our food cycle first (through marine animals and sea salt) as broken down micro-plastic.

It’s not just the undegradable plastic that affects our planet. According to the Pacific Institute’s “Fact Sheet: Bottled Water and Energy,” the process of actually making the one-use plastic bottles use 17 million barrels of oil annually in the US alone, and that’s not even including the oil used for transporting the bottles.

Here’s the good news: there are a ton of efficient ways to reduce your carbon footprint and plastic waste consumption when traveling. One of the easiest and most effective ways to travel sustainably is to avoid single-use plastic the road, and  bring your own reusable water bottle!

Fight the fight against one-use plastic. Bring a reusable, fold-up bag for your groceries, a water bottle for your thirst, and sustainable straw for your iced coffee frappes. Maybe pack a reusable sandwich/food bag too!

We know it’s not always possible to forego plastic, especially when you are traveling, but none of these things will take up much room in your backpack. If we all make a conscious effort to travel sustainability, it will make a world of difference to the environment we aim to explore.

So without further adieu, I have listed the best water bottles for traveling below.

Best Travel Water Bottles – Our Top Picks

Best insulated, stainless steel water bottles, best water bottles with a filter for travel, best collapsible water bottles for travel, best reusable water bottles for travel, things to consider before you buy a travel water bottle, how we tested to find the best travel water bottles, faq about the best travel water bottles, final thoughts on water bottles for travel.

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

• Size > 16 – 40 oz.

Klean Kanteen Water Bottle

• Price > $$$
• Size > 20 – 40oz

Grayl Geopress

• Size > 24 oz.

LifeStraw Water Bottle

• Size > 23 oz.

CamelBAK Fit Cap 32o

• Size > 32oz

HydraPak SkyFlask 500 Water Bottle

• Size > 20 oz.

HydraPak Flux 1.5 L Collapsible Water Bottle

• Size > 50 oz.

Nalgen REI Co-op

• Size > 32 oz.

The bottom line is that a reliable water bottle, whether you are camping in the wild or traveling through bustling cities, is an essential item to pack. I mean, we all have to drink water! By carrying your own water bottle, you can reduce the amount of plastic you buy on the road and at home.

There are endless options to consider and factor in, including durability, material, nice-to-have features, and price.

Should you purchase a stainless steel water bottle or a plastic one? What gadgets can you live without? Should you get a built-in purifier? All of these questions and more will be answered below!

For those who want something easy, affordable, and can take a beat. Extra insulation will also help keep your liquids hot or cold in more demanding climates.

  Hydro Flask  Water Bottle – Best Insulated Water Bottle

Founded in one of the outdoor capitals of the USA, Bend, Oregon, this is truly one of the best water bottle brands out there. I’m not kidding when I say that Hydroflask has a cult following either.

Why? Because their double-wall vacuum-insulated design will keep your water ice cold (or your tea/coffee steaming hot) for hours on end. I have left my ice water sitting there for days ( over 24 hours), and there have been ice cubes floating around.

This is the best water bottle in extreme weather conditions, like the mountains or desert. A buddy of mine works in the desert, and this is his go-to water bottle to keep him cool all day.

Moreover, they have tons of sizes ranging from 16 oz to 40 oz + with a variety of interchangeable caps and fun colors.

The wide opening has three lids – a flip lid with a loop, a flex cap with a larger loop, and a straw lid for convenience.

If you are buying a hydro flask water bottle for travel, I suggest sticking with a 24 oz size though. Frankly, the 32 oz + bottles are too heavy and bulky, though they make for a great weapon!

There are drawbacks to using a hydro flask for travel, however. They are heavy as well as one of the most expensive water bottles on the market, so it may not make sense to actually backpack with it.

Our team really love the Hydro Flask and feel it’s the best water bottle for travel for a few reasons. They basically told us it just ticks all the boxes, is it perfect, not quite, but it’s close! For a starters the bottle is super durable and the steel material used means there’s no plasticy taste. The team were also super impressed by how long this bottle kept their drinks either mega cold or burning hot even after hours on the trails.

Learn More: Best Travel Coffee Makers review

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Klean Kanteen – Runner-up for Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Dueling it out for the overall best water bottle is Klean Kantene…

Why do we love it? This water bottle is easy to fill, but the opening is narrow enough to drink from, without spilling all over yourself, even within a moving car 🙂

And speaking of cars, it also fits in most cup holders, but it’s wide enough insert ice cubes.

It’s also easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and leakproof, so you can keep it in your backpack without spilling.

It’s one of the most lightweight stainless steel water bottles on the market. Like the hydro flask below, the Klean Kantene has a number of different lids and colors, depending on your preference. I’m a big fan of the sports cap as pictured.

Our team felt this was a close second when it came to the best travel water bottles and it just narrowly missed out on the top spot. They were blown away by how long this bottle keeps drinks both hot and cold. They also felt it held up well to the rigours of travel, non of our team members reported paint chips or dints even after a few months of usage.

Note: Make sure to read our guide on  how to travel responsibly, ethically, and sustainably   as well as how to  reduce your plastic footprint !

For those who are traveling to places with less-then-ideal sanitation standards and don’t want to bother with conventional means of purification i.e. chlorine pills, Steripens, awkward Lifestraws.

Grayl GEOPRESS Water Purifier Bottle – Best Water Bottle with Filter for Travel

What’s better than a travel water bottle you can fill with purified water? A travel water bottle you can fill with any water.

So, the Grayl GEOPRESS is not quite a water filter bottle. I mean, it is; you’re not going to accidentally contract giardia because of my wishy-washy banter. But it’s just not as boring as a standard filter bottle – this thing purifies .

You’ve got three parts: the outie, the innie, and the filter. You fill the outie with toxic death-infested water, push the filter through, and sunshine-lollipop water runs into the innie. Think of it like the AeroPress of water purification!

You know what I call that?

That’s science!

So what about the deetz? Well, this filtered water bottle carries 24oz of liquid (710mL for all my metric bros) and weighs 15.9oz (450g). Obviously, that’s before you put the protozoa-free water inside. The Grayl GEOPRESS is also one hardass son-of-a-bitch and will survive some pretty decent drops.

Of course, that’s not your burning question, is it? The burning question is ‘Does it work?’

The answer: yes indeedy! We thouroughly tested the Grayl GEOPRESS water bottle (not least to mention trekking in the Karakoram in Pakistan) and we’re happy to report: no violent illnesses! All our body fluids stayed right where they’re meant too.

In all seriousness, this things trumps other standard water filter bottles because it removes everything . Bacteria, parasites, viruses, heavy metals… no other filter water bottle offers the coverage and peace of mind that the Grayl GEOPRESS does.

Our team felt the Grayl was the best water bottle for traveling abroad due to just how well this bottle gets rid of any nasties. The team also felt the bottle was very well made and many of them have personally had this bottle for years and they’re still going strong. They also felt the mechanism and changing of the filters were super easy.

And that’s why it’s The Broke Backpacker’s official choice for the best travel filter water bottle. Enjoy all that death-free water!

LifeStraw Water Bottle – Runner-Up Travel Filter Water Bottle

This was originally our top pick for the best travel filter water bottle but then the Grayl GEOPRESS came along and ruined LifeStraw’s day. That’s ok, LifeStraw; we still love you. Number two is still pretty darn good.

This reusable, BPA-free plastic water bottle filters water while drinking via a 2-stage activated carbon filter that removes bacteria and protozoa as well as reduces odor and chlorine.

The straw removes 99.9999% waterborne bacteria and 99.9% waterborne protozoan parasites without chemicals, iodine, or batteries.

This water bottle is leak-proof with a food-grade silicone mouthpiece. It comes in a 23 oz water bottle size.

Do not fret if you are looking at purchasing a water bottle that doesn’t purify water abroad. I travel with my Grayl Geopress , which ends up being more versatile since I can purify multiple water bottles and it also kills viruses.

Our team are big fans of the LifeStraw water bottle and love the additional features built-in including the carabineer attachment which makes it easy to keep on hand even if your pack doesn’t have a bottle holder. They also felt the filtration of the water not only made it safe but made it taste a lot nicer too.

LifeStraw also makes a separate straw that you can stand alone that I have heard great things about.

CamelBAK Fit Cap 32oz – Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle

The CamelBAK Fit Cap 32oz Water Bottle, fabricated from vacuum-insulated stainless steel, guarantees your beverages remain chilled for up to 24 hours or warmed for a maximum of 6 hours. It serves as an ideal mate for numerous outdoor excursions, gym workouts, or simply as a desktop companion at your workplace. Its leak-proof cap safeguards against accidental spills, while the design comfortably accommodates most cup holders and backpack pockets.

Furthermore, in a world growing more conscious of environmental conservation, the CamelBak Fit Cap Water Bottle stands out as a sustainable substitute for single-use plastic bottles. Thanks to its durable build, it can endure daily usage, promising longevity. The sleek design, combined with the practicality of the cap, establishes this water bottle as a prime selection for those leading an active lifestyle and who appreciate a perfect blend of utility and aesthetic appeal.

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For those who value space and ultra-lightness above all else.

HydraPak SkyFlask 500 Water Bottle – Best Collapsible Water Bottle for Travel

This silicone-based collapsible water bottle is fantastic for those traveling with minimal space, yet still, want to bring a sustainable water bottle on their adventure!

The HydraPak water bottle’s major draw is its ability to roll into the size of a fist and lightweight material.

It’s the lightest reusable water bottle on this list, weighing just 4.8 oz! This is great for travelers with a carry-on.

The downside to this water bottle is durability. It’s not going to last you as long as a stainless steel bottle or even durable plastic.

Furthermore, for better or worst, this water bottle only comes in one size, 20 ounces, but it’s a small drawback if you want a lightweight water bottle.

Our team really loved how lightweight these bottles were and how small they folded up when not in use. They might be a little flimsy in the hand but for those looking for something super light and minimalist without being over-complicated, our team felt these were a great solution. They also loved that they were dishwasher safe so they’re really easy to clean.

HydraPak Flux 1.5 L Collapsible Water Bottle – The Best Collapsible Water Bottle with Filter

The HydraPak Flux is an ingenious piece of kit that combines the portability of a collapsible bottle and the utility of a filtered travel water bottle! It’s easy to use, easy to pack, easy to clean, and crucially effective.

The HydraPak Flux is most effective against bacteria and protozoa, killing over 99% of the little guys. On the other hand, there seems to be no definite word about the bottle effectiveness against viruses.

given that it’s a squeeze bottle, the HydraPak Flux actually has a pretty good flow rate. The flow won’t be anything like using a GRAYL post-purification but it will be damn sure better than using something like a Lifestraw, which requires iron lungs sometimes.

Note that the HydraPak Flux Water Filter itself is not compatible with other squeeze bottle brands.

Our team really loved the idea behind this bottle and its functionality. They felt it really cornered a great niche with the fact that it can easily be folded down and used as an emergency water bottle with its ability to be filled up with liquid like river water or other questionable sources! It might not be durable to use as your everyday bottle but our team swear by it for trekking in the wilds.

For those who are open to using a plastic water bottle for travel just so long as it comes from recycled materials.

Nalgen REI Co-op – Best Reusable Water Bottle (Plastic)

REI Co-op Nalgene is one of the most prolific resuable water bottle brands out there today! Often used by thru-hikers and long-term backpackers because they’re the most lightweight water bottles on this list (that isn’t collapsible).

Furthermore, the wide mouth allows for easy cleaning on the road even though it is made out of plastic. They are definitely convenient as they can be used for any type of activity, and they can handle drops and bangs in rough terrain.

The downside of a Nalgene water bottle, however, is that you need to clean it quite often. The O-ring on the cap is made firmly and can be tough to remove, but this part needs to be cleaned most to avoid bacteria.

Nalgenes do not handle direct sunlight and extreme external temperatures well, so keep them away from concentrated heat to avoid activation of chemicals found in plastic.

This is a plastic water bottle, and although it is BPA-free, it could still be manufactured with chemicals in it… Make sure to wash the water bottle by hand before use, and avoid dishwashers and strong detergents.

This is our most affordable water bottle on this list, a huge plus for water bottles for travel, but it isn’t as durable as our insulated options.

Our team felt this was a solid option for those who wanted something simple, effective, light and easy to clean. Something that ticks all the basic needs of a bottle without being overly expensive or complicated. It’s also super durable and great for daily use both on your trip, at the gym or at work.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Gone are the days a water bottle was simply a water bottle. As with anything in this day and age, you have unlimited options and vendors to buy from, and I’m going to help you narrow it down! Below are the top things to consider before you buy a travel water bottle.

1. Material

Most sustainable water bottles are made from glass, plastic, or stainless steel. Below I have provided quick summaries on why you should choose one material over the other…

Stainless Steel Bottles

These water bottles are the most durable, and most likely to last for the duration of your entire trip, whether it’s a quick vacation or multi-year adventure.

I’m a big fan of stainless steel water bottles because they last forever, and withhold insulation so your water stays cold (or hot) longer. Moreover, stainless steel water bottles are easy to clean, which is essential when you’re hopping from place to place. If I had to choose, stainless steel material makes for the best travel water bottle.

Reusable Plastic Water Bottles

Reusable plastic water bottles are the most common type of reusable water bottle on the trails because they’re the lightest and cheapest option. Many hikers choose to use a Nalgene or Camelbak  BPA-free plastic water bottle since stainless steel is heavier.

The downside to plastic is that they do not offer any insulation, so when you’re out for the day or exposed to the sun, your water will warm up quickly.

You have to clean plastic water bottles much more frequently, as they tend to get pretty nasty – think mold and odors – quickly, but the good news is wide mouth plastic water bottles are the easiest to clean.

If you buy a reusable plastic water bottle, make sure it is BPA-free, though pretty much all bottles come this way now. It’s always recommended to check that your purchase is chemical-free.

Check out the best CamelBak gear if you’re looking for some inspiration for your hydration!

Glass Water Bottles

Glass water bottles are great for having a reusable water bottle at home or the office, but I wouldn’t suggest one for traveling. They do not last as long, and they tend to be heavier. Plus, you run the risk of breaking it.

Silicone Water Bottles

Much less common, silicone water bottles are used for collapsible, travel-specific water bottles often sold on Amazon. They are a great addition to any backpacker’s packing list.

2. Water Bottle Weight and Capacity

Weight and capacity might be the most important thing to consider when you are choosing a water bottle for traveling. Backpackers, hikers, and trekkers will want to keep their backpack as light as possible. A travel size water bottle might be better than your standard bottle size if you want to keep things super light.

If you are already traveling with a tent and other camping supplies, you don’t want to add to the weight. Along with material, the best way to keep this weight down is by capacity/size.

I have found that when I am traveling a 750 ml (25 oz) sized water bottle is plenty big. Even if you drink water like a fish, it’s worth refilling your bottle more frequently than lugging around a 2-pound fire hydrant as a water bottle. Trust me, I am speaking from experience here!

3. Mouth Opening on a Reusable Water Bottle

Have you ever spilt water all over yourself when the driver halts to an unexpected stop? Imagine trying to take a sip of water on the bumpy back roads of India or Central America.

The wider the water bottle mouth, the more likely you are to spill while moving. That said, you definitely want the mouth wide enough to clean easily, and add ice cubes, fruit slices, etc.

4. Type of Mouth Opening – Sippers, Straws, Caps, etc.

Straws and sippers make it easy to drink on the go without spilling all over yourself (see the previous section), though they need to be cleaned more often. Personally, I prefer a straw typed mouth opening for my larger water bottle, but a normal-sized mouth opening for my 750ml and underwater bottles. Many water bottles will offer multiple choices to switch out.

5. Price for a Travel Water Bottle

Price is, of course, an important consideration with any purchase, especially for travel-related purchases. On one hand, you want a durable and high-quality water bottle. Price will often reflect this, but not always. Just because it’s more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better.

Secondly, you are traveling, and it’s best to not bring anything too expensive on your trip. I know, we’re talking about water bottles right, but I had my hydro flask water bottle stolen while I was traveling – and it stung a little more than it should have.

All of the water bottles we cover below are sold at a justifiable price point!

6. Filters and Purifiers

A filter or purifier might be essential if you are traveling to places where drinking water is unsafe. This can include developing countries or anywhere giardia can be contracted.

The important thing to keep in mind is that a filter only deals with bacteria and protozoan cysts; whereas, a purifier also neutralizes viruses.

If you are traveling internationally a purifier is a solid investment. A travel water bottle may come with a purifier, which makes them an excellent choice for travel.

However, you can also buy a separate purifier, like a Grayl Geopress , that can be used in any  water bottle. This is totally up to personal preference, but I lean towards having a separate purifier.

7. Insulated or Non-insulated

Insulated water bottles will obviously dictate the material the bottle is made of. Also known as double-walled, insulated water bottles will help you keep your drink hot or cold for hours on end, but this means the water bottle will be heavier and more expensive than non-insulated water bottles. If you’re looking for something dedicated to keeping your tea or coffee warm on cold-weather hikes, then a travelling flask might be another option.

Testing out a water bottle is hardly rocket science right? Nevertheless when we compared these H2O receptacles using a few set metrics to bring you the best water bottle for travel everrrr!

If a water bottle already feels heavy when there’s nothing in it, then just imagine how much of a pain in the arse it’s going to be once full! No one wants to be carting around extra weight on their backs so when it came to rating the best travel water bottle, the lighter the better!

Nothing beats the thirst-quenching satisfaction of cold water on a sizzling day. So we judged each bottle by its ability to keep water as cool as possible.

Cleanability

Water bottles get seriously grimy over time and keeping on top of this can be challenging. So we judged these travel water bottles harshly when it came to those that were difficult to keep clean. We tested this by literally getting our hands dirty and seeing how easy the cleaning process was and how much dirt each one had collected.

Still have some questions about the best water bottles for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why should you travel with a water bottle?

Simple: to save the planet! There’s enough plastic floating around in the ocean. If you can reduce that number by getting your hands on a travel water bottle, the planet will be forever grateful.

Should I get a filtered water bottle?

Yes, definitely. It’s always a good idea to have a filtered water bottle, like the Grayl GEOPRESS Purifier Bottle for example. Filtered water is super safe to drink and your body will thank you.

What is the best overall travel bottle?

We personally love the Hydro Flask , simply because of the value you’re getting. It’s a reliable brand, it’s got some great insulaton and you can carry up to 1L around. Perfect for backpackers!

What is a good foldable water bottle?

The Baiji Water Bottle is totally collapsible, making it super easy to carry. You can roll it up and store it in your pocket. The Katadyn BeFree is another great option and even comes with a filter.

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1,000,000 plastic water bottles are sold every minute!  That plastic ends up in the ocean, which then leads to uneccesary loss of marine animal life .

And the travel industry contributes a staggering amount of waste and carbon emission on this planet, but here at the Broke Backpacker we truly believe that traveling on a budget and traveling sustainably can and should coincide.

One simple solution to traveling green while saving a few bucks every day (an amount that adds up for long-term backpackers) is to carry a sustainable water bottle at all times.

Frankly, using one-time-use plastic water bottles does not mean you are drinking higher quality water anyway as the plastic does eventually break down in the water you are drinking. They found that 93% of bottled water shows signs of  micro-plastic contamination . Most well-known brands made the list. I have also read that some brands have been caught using tap water…

Those $2 water purchases definitely add up, whether at home or on the road. That’s why the topic of travel water bottles is so important to us.

We want to save this planet and save your budget. This guide covers our top picks for water bottles for traveling. Our overall favorite water bottle is the Grayl Geopress because of its design, insulation, versatility, and price point. You really can’t go wrong with this sleek water bottle.

I’m also a fan of the Grayl GEOPRESS water purifier for visiting countries where the tap water is contaminated.

If we missed one of your favorite water bottles for travel, let us know in the comments!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

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Thanks for the recommendations! I’ve been travelling with a Camelbak Eddy for years, the same bottle and never had any issues with it. It’s funny how you grow attached to someone like a drink bottle travelling around the world with you. But anyway, recently it got taken off me at an airport. So time for a new travel bottle. Thanks again.

Got my first hydro flask from bottlecraze and I love this water bottle. Its just right for me. I take it everywhere I go. Its well designed and very insulated. I like it keeps my drinks cold all day.

Insulated water bottles are a game changer, right?!

Honestly, Avex water bottles are absolutely awesome and very, very, well designed. There are designed so well that Coleman borrowed thier design (licensing) and are now selling that same design under their branding. Why no one looks at this brand is beyond me. There are well priced too. Check them out on Amazon.

Nice! I will most definitely check them out 🙂

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The 8 Best Travel Water Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

An often overlooked item that can improve your trip

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

PeopleImages  / Getty Images 

A water bottle is an essential travel item, but finding the best one—in other words, one that doesn't leak and isn't heavy or fragile—can be challenging. We researched the best water bottles on the market and came up with a list of 26 to put to the test in our New York City testing lab. Travel editors tested the bottles for portability, insulation, durability, drinkability, and overall value by filling up the water bottles, dropping them onto the lab's concrete floor, and taking temperature readings. We then averaged scores for each category to give you the best travel water bottles for any trip or situation.

Final Verdict

Other travel water bottles we tested, product selection, how we tested.

• What to Look For

What Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, takeya actives water bottle.

• Drinkability 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Insulation 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Actives Spout lid has perfect water flow

Extra lid loop offers another carrying option

Passed the durability test with no damages

Superior insulation

Not completely leakproof

Our testers liked a lot about the Takeya Actives Spout Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle, particularly its drinkability, durability, insulation, and overall value. The superb drinkability ratings start with the bottle's Actives Spout lid, which maximizes water flow without the likelihood of spilling it all over your face a la other brands' wide-mouth bottles. "This is really a perfect cap," one tester said of the lid. "Just the right size so that you can get as much water as you want without spilling and can get a perfect flow of water from it."

The bottle held up well in the shake and durability tests but surprisingly had some leaks after walking around with it in a bag. It was also slightly heavier than some of the other bottles we tested. But where this bottle also stood out compared to others was its insulation. Our original temperature reading put the water temperature at about 55 degrees. At three hours, the temperature dropped to 47.5 degrees thanks to the ice in the bottle. And by six hours, the temperature had only risen to about 50 degrees.

Testers also enjoyed some unique features of this bottle, like the removable rubber anti-skid coaster at its base, the hinge-lock, which keeps the cap out of your way while drinking, and its style. "This is a great water bottle for everyday use," a tester concluded. "But because of the smaller cap and ease of drinking while being in motion, plus its durability, I also think it would be good for someone who is very active."

Material: 18/8 food-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 18, 22, 24, 32, 40, and 64 ounces

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Thermoflask bottle with chug lid and straw lid.

• Portability 4.5 /5
• Insulation 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Includes two different lids

Cup holder compatible

Overall excellent value

A few dents from the drop test

The coolest thing about this water bottle? It comes with two lids—a chug lid and a straw lid. Both lids are leakproof—clutch for travel—and both passed the drop tests without cracking. We also liked that it was one of the few water bottles to fit in all cup holders and that it has a carrying handle, though we'd like to see that handle have the ability to fold down.

The vacuum insulation claims to keep liquids cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12. After six hours, the temperature of the ice water we put in the bottle only increased from about 51 degrees to just under 55 degrees. The only real drawback we saw with this bottle was the bottle itself did dent when we dropped it. But the straw didn't open, and no leaks started.

Material: 18/8 food-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 24 ounces

Best Budget

Mira water bottle.

• Drinkability 4 /5
• Portability 3.5 /5
• Durability 3.5 /5

Good mouth opening

Testers rated the seal and drinkability highly

Water stayed decently cold

Heavy and no extra features

Didn't hold up well in drop tests

If you lose water bottles frequently, a budget bottle might be a wise choice. Our testers liked MIRA's insulated stainless steel water bottle best of the budget-friendly options we tested. The MIRA bottle has a good grip and a cap that stayed intact during the drop tests, and it's a good carrying size. It also did an excellent job of keeping water cold, only increasing from 54.5 degrees to just over 58 degrees over a span of six hours.

Be careful if you go with the MIRA, as many dents formed during the drop tests. "It's now wobbly and doesn't stand perfectly straight and balanced anymore," one tester noted after the drop tests. Still, if you're looking for a basic bottle that won't hurt to lose, this one is a good value that keeps water cold and is nice to drink from.

Material: 18/8 stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 17 and 25 ounces

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle

 Amazon

• Drinkability 4.5 /5
• Seal 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Excellent insulation, holding temperature for six hours

Filters water

Good for carrying and holding

Lid potentially annoying for certain face shapes

Not the most durable

If you didn't already know, Brita makes water bottles, too. And it turns out the brand makes pretty good ones. Like the typical Brita counter water filter, the hard-sided water bottle includes a filter that reduces chlorine taste and odor. (Note: It's recommended to replace the filter every two months.) Besides the filter, this bottle has all of the typical features included in a quality reusable water bottle, like stainless steel construction and a leakproof lid.

This bottle has a silicone mouthpiece that our testers liked. "The water tasted great and pure," one tester noted. "The button to open the lid is nice and convenient, as is the handle on top." Our testers had one issue with this bottle: It dented fairly easily, and the seal was compromised when it landed on the lid during the drop tests. But, overall, our testers liked this bottle quite a bit.

Material: Stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 20 and 32 ounces

Best for Hiking

Nalgene 32-ounce wide mouth tritan bottle.

• Insulation 2 /5

Inexpensive

Lid loop offers additional carrying options

Very tough to break or dent

Wide mouth makes for easier spilling

There are a few pieces of gear that are absolute game-changers. The 32-ounce Nalgene Water Bottle is one of those products. Nalgene has been around for decades, but we still remember getting our first Nalgene bottle as a teenager in the early 2000s. Nalgene has manufactured this water bottle for over 50 years, fine-tuning its design so that the water bottle is durable enough to survive in any condition or hiking adventure. This lightweight water bottle features BPA-free Tritan material, which can handle both cold and hot drinks. The opening is large enough for ice cubes to fit inside, which also makes it a breeze to wash by hand. You'll be able to track your water intake easily when you're on the go using the measurement markers displayed on the side, and the loop-attached lid guarantees you'll never lose it.

Material: Tritan renew copolyester | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 32 ounces

Best for Portability

Hydro flask standard mouth water bottle.

Hydro Flask

• Insulation 3.5 /5

Carrying loop boosts ease of use

Fits everywhere

Grippy outer material

Not great durability

Temperature holding could be better

Bend, Oregon-based Hydro Flask has elbowed its way into the competitive insulated water bottle market by making high-quality and functional tumblers and bottles. We've always been Nalgene fans because of the brand's lightweight, rugged, and inexpensive bottles. But Hydro Flask has grown on us over the past decade for its functionality. The Standard Mouth Flex Cap bottle has quickly become one of our favorites in the Hydro Flask line.

Our testers also liked the Standard Mouth Flex Cap bottle for many reasons, including its textured finish for boosted grip, its superior seal that didn't allow any leaking, and the actual flex cap, which has a loop that pivots and moves with you as you walk. "The size of the bottle fits perfectly into a backpack holder and fits securely in there without feeling top heavy, so it'll fall out. It also fits well into a car cup holder," a tester reported.

Two downsides dropped the overall scoring of this bottle. The temperature increased almost 8 degrees over six hours (although it stayed remarkably stable for three hours). And it dented easily. "A couple more falls could have likely broken the bottom rim and made the bottle unusable," a tester noted. "The lid and cap, however, stayed intact."

Material: 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 18, 21, and 24 ounces

Best Splurge

Yeti stainless steel bottle.

Narrow mouthpiece helps prevent spills

Holds temperature well

Very strong and durable

A bit heavy

When we see a YETI product, we know two things are likely to be true about it. First, it's going to be expensive. Second, it's going to be excellent quality. The Rambler bottle isn't that much more costly than others on this list. But it is of top-shelf quality, and if you don't tend to lose water bottles, it is definitely worth the higher price.

"A delight to drink from," one tester succinctly described the Rambler. "The mouth opening was a great size, and the water tasted terrific and cold."

The Rambler comes with a chug cap, and if you get a smaller size (it comes in five sizes, up to 64 ounces), it's likely to fit easily into a backpack pocket or car cup holder. The temperature only increased by about 2 degrees over six hours. And, because it's YETI, there were basically no dents or scuffs during the drop tests. Like the Hydro Flask, the YETI Rambler has edged its way into our water bottle rotation with our Nalgene, and we're good with it.

Material: 18/8 kitchen-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 18, 26, 36, 46, and 64 ounces

Best Thermos

Healthy human vacuum insulated double walled thermos.

Excellent drinkability

Cap stayed intact during drop tests

Excellent insulation

Sustained some denting

There's a lot to like about the Healthy Human Water Bottle. For one, it was one of our top performers in the temperature test, dropping almost a full degree over six hours. Our testers also enjoyed the size of the lid for drinking as water poured out easily but not too quickly. It was also super comfortable for our testers to hold. Like others on this list, it did dent somewhat easily during the drop tests, but the cap was not damaged and only suffered minor scuffs.

Material: 18/8 stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 16, 21, 32, and 40 ounces

Our thorough testing revealed the Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle to be the best overall. In terms of price, insulation, and durability, this bottle takes the cake. The ThermoFlask 24 Oz. Bottle came in a close second, impressing our testers with its top-notch leak protection and drinkability.

We tested 26 bottles for this roundup. Other bottles we tested not included above in our list were as follows:

CamelBak Eddy+ : We like the size of this bottle and feel it is ideal for active pursuits, but it did not hold up well during our durability or seal tests, and the bite-and-suck straw isn't the most comfortable to use.

CamelBak Podium Bike Water Bottle : This bottle is durable, seals well, and is lightweight. It is also difficult to squeeze to get the water out and would not suit anyone with hand weakness.

Purist Mover Vacuum Water Bottle : The Purist Mover is easy to grip and does not leak while in pristine condition. Our tester deducted points on durability because it began to leak after being dropped twice and noted that anyone with nails would have difficulty opening the thumb slot.

Kleen Kanteen Classic Water Bottle : Our tester found this bottle easy to drink from, and the textured exterior easy to grip. Though it is not expensive, the durability test demonstrated that even a modest drop would make this bottle unusable.

Kleen Kanteen TKWide : We liked drinking from this bottle and didn't have any issues with leaking, but it became uncomfortably heavy when filled, especially considering the handle is made of a sturdy metal without rubber.

S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle : Our testers liked the shape of this bottle and the fact that it easily fits in a cup holder. It's not as durable as we'd like, and after being dented a few times, it wouldn't stand up straight.

Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle : Malleable yet durable, this soft bottle performed reasonably well and didn't leak. However, after only three hours, the water had reached room temperature, and the cap was somewhat cumbersome when drinking.

Que The Collapsible Bottle : The unique design of the Que bottle played well with our testers. The main drawbacks they found were it had very little insulating capability and that the rubber material tended to pick up dust and hair.

W&P Porter Glass Water Bottle : This pick has a good-sized mouth opening and keeps the water inside tasting pure due to its glass construction. This also means it is more fragile than bottles made of other materials.

Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle : Multiple lids provide a comfortable drinking experience, and the seal was not perfect but solid. We took points away after the drop test, which resulted in several dents and damaged the cap to the point of causing leakage.

E-Senior Collapsible Water Bottle : Easy to stow with a good seal, this bottle survived the durability test beautifully. Unfortunately, we found it awkward to drink from and grip while full.

MoChic Flat Water Bottle : In terms of drinkability, seal, and durability, this is a great option. The main drawback was that its unique shape (kind of a flask/water bottle hybrid) is not easy to fit into standard cup holders or backpacks.

We selected products based on internet research and the expertise of travel writers, editors, and our lab testing team. Internet research included examining what other prominent media sites have featured and highest-rated products on sites like Amazon and REI. Individual expertise came from the experience of TripSavvy's editors and writers and the water bottles we've used over the years.

Once we selected an initial list of products, we narrowed it down to the 26 tested above based on price points, intended uses, features, and styles. We wanted to provide a diverse list of products to fit as many different types of consumers, travelers, and outdoor-focused individuals as possible.

We tested water bottles for drinkability, seal, portability, insulation, durability, and value. Each bottle was rated on a five-point scale for each category. We averaged each score to create an overall score for each bottle.

First, we filled each bottle with ice a quarter of the way. Then we filled the rest with cold water from the water machine in our testing lab. An initial temperature reading was taken. Testers took temperature readings three and six hours after the initial reading. For drinkability, testers took drinks from the bottles while standing still and walking, noting any spills or splashes.

We tested the seal by shaking the bottles, holding them upside down for one minute, tossing them in backpacks, and carrying them around for five minutes. Testers rated portability based on the bottles' grip, carrying handles, and how well they fit in cup holders and backpack carrying pockets.

Drop tests tested durability. Testers dropped the filled bottles three times on the lids and three times on the main body and rated the bottles based on the damage. Lastly, testers rated value based on how the bottles performed across all tests.

What to Look For in a Travel Water Bottle

These days, insulated bottles' standard water material is 18/8 stainless steel. Be on the hunt for that material if you're looking for a quality bottle. Other brands, like Nalgene, feature a proprietary Tritan plastic material. Most importantly, be sure the bottle you pick is BPA-free.

Like the 18/8 stainless steel construction, most quality bottles will claim up to 24 hours of keeping liquids cold. This claim will vary based on many factors, like how cold the liquid is initially when it's placed in the bottle and how warm or cold it is when you use it. Vacuum and double vacuum insulations are the best types of insulation these days, so look for that when purchasing a water bottle if insulation matters to you.

Style of Lid and Cap

While materials and insulations are mostly the same in reusable water bottles, lid and cap styles can vary. Do you prefer a wide-mouth lid? Standard-mouth? Do you like a straw? A smaller lid? Those are all personal preferences to consider when picking a water bottle.

Extra Features

Some water bottles have bonus features like filters, purifiers, or fruit infusers. If that interests you, be on the lookout for those additional items. Just know that with those extra items likely comes increased costs.

This is less of an issue if you're only putting water in your water bottle. You can either hand wash your bottle or throw it in the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe. All water bottles come with cleaning instructions. But, if you're like us and put electrolytes or other liquids in your water bottle, cleaning can get a bit more involved. This might require additional scrubbing with warm or hot water and typical dish soap. Pro tip: If mold starts to form, fill your bottle a quarter of the way with ice and add coarse salt. Shake it hard until whatever is growing on the sides of your bottle is removed. We have noticed the traditional Nalgene material is more likely to grow mold than new Nalgene materials and the 18/8 stainless steel.

Another rule is to give your bottle a good scrubbing before using it for the first time.

Any reusable water bottle! The only potential issue is forgetting there's water in it when you go through the security line. Reusable water bottles are excellent for travel as they are better for the planet and help you avoid overpaying for a water bottle after going through the TSA security checkpoint .

We love bottles that have some sort of carrying loop on the lid. It's easier to carry in your hands or attach to a backpack or other luggage with a carabiner. Most carry-on backpacks and other luggage items also have water bottle-specific pockets. If those options don't work, putting the bottle in your carry-on bag will work.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy's Outdoor Gear Editor. Friends and family have made fun of him for the amount of liquids he keeps on hand. Nathan uses collapsible water bottles daily while trail running, biking water bottles often while cycling or mountain biking, and keeps them nearby for rehydration while working between his many outdoor pursuits. His current rotation of water bottles includes Nalgene's 48-ounce wide-mouth bottle, YETI's Rambler, and Hydro Flask's Standard-Mouth Bottle.

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• Outdoor gear

The 8 Best Water Bottles

By Eve O'Neill and Sam Schild

Reusable water bottles that are both good-looking and functional seem like a necessity in our modern, hydration-obsessed world.

But finding the right one to match your personal taste can be a challenge—it depends on what you’re looking for amid the riot of colors, shapes, and features.

After putting in more than 120 hours of research—and testing over 100 bottles since 2014—we’ve chosen the eight best water bottles in a number of materials and styles.

They include our most versatile pick , which has elbowed its way past more well-known competition, and an inexpensive bottle with a straw , beloved for its functionality in any driving scenario.

Whether you’re looking for a bottle to drink from while flying , a glass bottle (if you’re averse to plastic), a  tapered bottle , a plastic bottle (if you’re averse to high prices), a fancier bottle , or a stainless steel model , all of our favorite water bottles offer a little extra to anyone who’s annoyed by imperfect hydration.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, the most versatile bottle: takeya actives insulated water bottle with spout lid (22 ounces), a simple stainless steel bottle and standard lid: hydro flask standard mouth (21 ounces), our favorite bottle for the car: camelbak eddy+ (25 ounces), the best glass water bottle: purifyou premium (22 ounces), the best tapered bottle: mira cascade (17 ounces), the best plastic water bottle: thermos hydration bottle (24 ounces), an ideal air travel companion: camelbak podium (21 ounces), an upgrade pick: purist mover (18 ounces), other good water bottles, how we picked, how we tested, the competition, care and maintenance.

Since we first created this guide, in 2014, we’ve tested more than 100 different bottles over many hundreds of hours. We also spoke with a lot of experts. Given the popularity of metal water bottles, we wanted to get some insight into how that double-walled insulation works. So we called NASA, the best experts on thermodynamics we could think of. Via email, we interviewed Wesley Johnson, a cryogenics research engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.

We also spoke with urban planner Josselyn Ivanov, who wrote her masters thesis on the decline of publicly available water, aka drinking fountains, for MIT’s Department of Urban Studies and Planning. “In the absence of investment and maintenance [in drinking fountains], many people fill the void by hauling around their own personalized infrastructure,” she told us.

And across four different writers (Sam Schild contributed the most recent round of testing, in mid-2022) and ten years of work, we’ve seen more than 100 iterations of the same object. From the hard-plastic Nalgene that steamrolled college campuses in the 2000s to a $5,000-plus Chanel bottle (which looks freshly looted from Blackbeard’s treasure chest), these water bottles all do the same thing. When you’ve used water bottles with triple-digit price tags as well as much less expensive versions, you know which one works best.

Pretty much anyone can benefit from having a water bottle they love. Carrying a reusable water bottle is better for the environment and more cost effective than buying bottled water. Bottled-water production in the US alone in 2007 required somewhere between 32 million and 54 million barrels of oil, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters (PDF) . That’s roughly 2,000 times as much as the energy cost of producing tap water, and bottled-water sales in the US have grown to 15.3 billion gallons as of 2021, from 8.76 billion gallons in 2007.

For shoppers, bottled water is also a thousand times more expensive than tap water. Add in the fact that in 2014 nearly 64% of all bottled water sold in the US was nothing more than pricey, prepackaged tap water (PDF) , and it becomes difficult to deny the value of a well-made reusable water bottle.

Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle with Spout Lid (22 ounces)

The best stainless steel water bottle.

The spout on this bottle is easy to drink from (and simpler to use than a sports cap), and the flip lid stays secure and out of your face. And the bottle has a wide mouth, so you can effortlessly add ice and supplements.

Buying Options

Size options (ounces): 18 , 22 , 24 , 32 , 40 , 64 Lids available: Spout (included), Straw Dishwasher safe: lid, yes; body, no

Get this if: You’d like a chameleon of a bottle, something that can adapt to almost any situation, whether you’re sitting at a desk, commuting on a subway, or working out at the gym.

Why it’s great: This double-walled, stainless steel bottle is marketed for gym-goers. But even if you’re not seeking a water bottle for working out, the Takeya Actives has a lid that’s a total standout.

The plastic top features a spout with a twist-on flip cap. Spout lids flow as easily as if you were drinking from an open glass. Yet they won’t splash contents if you’re cantering down the sidewalk at a brisk clip or powering through a sweaty treadmill workout.

The spout lid on the Takeya stands out because you can lock it after you flip it open—so it doesn’t hit your face. And when it’s closed, it covers the drinking surface completely. The whole thing twists off to reveal a 2¼-inch-wide mouth opening, so you can add in whatever you like: Load the bottle with ice, add an electrolyte powder, plop in some lemon wedges.

A silicone rubber boot, or base, comes standard on this bottle and prevents it from slipping or making noise on hard surfaces. Takeya also offers a straw lid, which you can purchase separately. We tested the straw lid, and it was leak-free; we recommend getting one if you primarily want to drink from this bottle while driving.

These bottles come in an array of colors and sizes, and our pick, the 22-ounce Takeya Actives, is the most recent size introduced to the lineup. After testing more than 100 bottles, we truly believe this is the Goldilocks size: not too big, not too small. It’s compatible with both cupholders and backpack pockets. And, like the final piece of a puzzle, it will slide nicely into that tiny bit of space remaining in your tote bag.

All of the Takeya bottle sizes we’ve tested have proved to be leak-free. And if you want a 32-ounce bottle, the Takeya Actives properly adapts the proportions of the bottle to accommodate the new capacity: It gets wider as well as taller, so this bottle remains stable when you set it down (though that does mean it’s too broad to fit in a standard cupholder).

Takeya’s website lists the lid as BPA-free, and it’s dishwasher safe (in the top rack). But hand-washing is recommended for the body. Takeya offers a limited lifetime warranty (you need a receipt).

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We’ve found very little not to love about this design. This is a bottle we think everyone can be very happy with.

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth (21 ounces)

Simple and reliable.

The Hydro Flask is an insulated steel bottle that’s pleasant to sip from and simple to carry, and it was completely leakproof in our tests.

Size options (ounces): 18 , 21 , 24 Lids available: Flex Cap (included), Sport Cap , Flex Straw Cap Dishwasher safe: no

Get this if: You want a reliable and versatile water bottle. This is a simple bottle, best for those who believe in doing one thing and doing it well.

Why it’s great: The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth is especially reliable. It’s an insulated, double-walled stainless steel water bottle with a powder-coated exterior (the permanent, lightly textured coating) and a plastic cap. Unlike aluminum bottles, this one won’t dent easily. Unlike glass bottles, this bottle won’t have issues with the bottom cracking. And unlike plastic bottles, it won’t deteriorate quickly while in use.

You can use this bottle with three different lids: the Flex Cap (included), Sport Cap , and Flex Straw Cap . We tested the first two caps, and neither leaked, but we prefer the Flex Cap to the Sport Cap. Usually, sport caps aren’t great at accounting for human error—the plastic can be very stiff and difficult to close with your mouth, so it’s easy to leave them halfway open. And if the bottle is lying on its side, water can occasionally leak through the air-intake valve.

If you tend to drink straight from the bottle, the Hydro Flask has a narrow, tapered metal edge. And it mimics the rim of a glass better than the lip on any other bottle we tested, including the round lip on the Klean Kanteen and the thick, industrial-feeling lip on the Yeti Rambler . The standard mouth opening is 1¾ inches wide—wide enough to fit ice but not so wide that water will slosh up your nose if you drink on the move.

Of the three sizes this bottle comes in, we think 21 ounces is the right capacity. This size is big enough to keep refills to a minimum but not as unwieldy as the 24-ounce bottle. (The 24-ounce Hydro Flask is tall and narrow and thus easy to tip over, and it feels large.) The cap is BPA-free, and Hydro Flask offers a limited lifetime warranty on this bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Complaints about the Hydro Flask are infrequent and few. However, while a silicone boot comes standard on the Takeya Actives bottle, for this Hydro Flask model, a boot is an add-on (it usually costs around $8).

Also, some people may not like that a portion of the drinking surface is exposed; the cap threads twist into the bottle rather than over the top and around the lip. We do like this design because sipping from a threaded drinking surface isn’t pleasant. But if the exposed drinking surface bothers you, several of our other picks—including the Takeya Actives , the Purifyou Premium , and the plastic Thermos Hydration Bottle —have lids that fully cover the drinking surface.

CamelBak Eddy+ (25 ounces)

Great for the car.

If you use a bottle with a straw, you won’t have to tilt your head back while drinking—the easiest way to quaff water and keep your focus on the road.

Size options (ounces): 20 , 25 , 32 Lids available: Straw (included), Chute Mag , Carry Cap Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You want something that’s easy to sip from while you’re driving, or you want something that encourages you to drink water throughout the day (our unscientific findings have led us to believe that straws make it easier to slurp down water).

Why it’s great: This bottle has an integrated straw in the lid that features a plastic bite valve to keep it sealed (something anyone who has owned a CamelBak hydration pack will be familiar with). Just bite down to open the straw and release to seal it shut. That leak-free lid makes this bottle an ideal driving companion—it fits in a cupholder and is easy to sip from while you’re keeping your eyes on the road. And if you transfer the bottle to a bag, the bite valve folds down into the lid, shielding it from too much contact with the bag’s contents.

Also, if you have daily hydration goals, there’s something about a straw that makes it easy to mindlessly consume the 20, 30, or 40 ounces of water you may have ahead of you. If this sounds like you, the Eddy+ comes in a 32-ounce size , which would be easy to fill once, plop next to your laptop, and hit your goal for the day.

The straw lid twists off to reveal a wide mouth that makes adding ice to your drink easy—handy if you like to keep your water cold. However, this is a plastic bottle, so adding ice could also make it sweaty.

You can swap out lids with two others from CamelBak: the Carry Cap and the Chute Mag (a spout lid we’ve tested and liked because of how easy it is to drink from, similar to the lid on our top pick ).

The Eddy+ is an updated model, and with this redesign CamelBak has addressed reports of the bite valve’s leaking or not functioning properly. The one we tested worked great, and neither the lid nor the valve leaked in our tests. This bottle is BPA-free, and all pieces—including the cap, lid, and straw—can go through the dishwasher. CamelBak offers a lifetime guarantee against defects in the manufacturing and materials, and the company will replace them if they’re defective.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: To get the water flowing, you do have to bite down on this straw and hold it while you drink, which may not appeal to some people. But overall we didn’t find that to be cumbersome, and we soon forgot all about it.

Purifyou Premium (22 ounces)

Prevents flavor from transferring.

This is the only glass bottle we’ve found where no plastic touches your water, and the bottle itself is housed in a protective silicone sleeve. But it won’t keep your water cold for long.

May be out of stock

Size options (ounces): 12 , 22 , 32 , 40 Lids available: stainless steel lined lid (included) Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You don’t want to drink out of plastic or metal, or you simply enjoy the heft and presence of a glass bottle.

Why it’s great: Our favorite glass bottle is the 22-ounce Purifyou Premium . It has a few design features that make it more functional than most, including the type of glass it’s made from, as well as an especially useful cap, which is also lined with stainless steel.

We recognize that some people just don’t want plastic touching their water. A major reason this bottle outperformed all the other glass options is it’s the only one we found that has a metal-lined cap (rather than some form of plastic). The simple utility of a finger loop on the cap was a surprise—it made the repetitive task of opening and closing the cap that much easier, compared with standard round caps.

We also like the small mouth on this bottle. When you drink from a wide-mouth glass bottle, such as the Lifefactory , it can seem like you’re drinking out of a jar. The downside is that the Purifyou is too narrow to accommodate ice cubes. But a glass bottle doesn’t retain heat or cold anyway, so we decided that wasn’t a problem.

The Purifyou is made of borosilicate glass, and that makes it special. Borosilicate glass resists thermal shock. This means if you take the bottle out of a hot dishwasher and fill it with cold or room-temperature water, it will resist shattering better than bottles made of common soda-lime glass.

We tested and liked the dimensions of the 22-ounce bottle, though it won’t fit in a traditional-size cupholder (the base is 3¼ inches wide). The body’s center is a little wide, and it’s not tapered like some others, but we had no problem holding it. Purifyou offers warranty coverage for all manufacturing defects, and (according to its Amazon page ) will replace the bottle if it “breaks within the first year” if you register online .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Glass bottles are limiting. They’re excellent for carrying room-temperature water and that’s it, since they are poor insulators. Glass bottles also aren’t as durable as other options, despite being heavier. Also, if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, note that neither the silicone sleeve nor the cap on this bottle is recyclable, since the cap is made from two materials fused into one. If you have environmental concerns, the best approach is to buy a bottle you know you will use the most.

Mira Cascade (17 ounces)

Elegant, insulated, and splashless.

This small-mouth, tapered bottle is pleasant to hold—like a plastic drink bottle but one made of double-walled insulated stainless steel.

Size options (ounces): 12 , 17 Lids available: stainless steel lid (included) Dishwasher safe: lid, yes; body, no

Get this if: You want a bottle with a minimalist, classic shape and a cap that covers the drinking lip.

Why it’s great: The Mira Cascade is a double-walled insulated bottle made of stainless steel. Its lid threads over the drinking surface, so you won’t have to put your mouth on something that’s been getting dirty in your bag all day. The Mira’s tapered shape is reminiscent of a classic 20-ounce plastic soda bottle, and this bottle is nice to hold. It will keep the contents cold all day, and due to the bottle’s small opening, your beverage won’t splash your face while you’re drinking, as the Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle does.

The Mira Cascade is nearly identical to the S’well , another tapered bottle we like everything about—except the price. Since the Cascade is usually about half the price of the S’well, we naturally picked the less expensive option, which performs just as well.

The Mira Cascade has an elegant design, so it fits in at the office and other formal events: Pick the right color, and it could even match a tux. And it passed the leak test, so you don’t have to worry about this bottle’s contents ruining your day, your laptop, or your evening wear.

We think the 17-ounce size is ideal—it fits in a briefcase, in cupholders, and in water-bottle pockets. If you want a smaller or larger bottle, the Cascade also comes in a 12-ounce size.

The lid covers the drinking lip, so no matter where you toss this bottle, the surface that your mouth touches will be covered. Also, we think the Mira Cascade’s lid is just the right size, compared with the Corkcicle Canteen ’s lid, which is so small we were worried about losing it. Like most double-walled bottles, the bottle itself isn’t dishwasher safe, but the lid is. Mira sells replacement lids and lid gaskets , too.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Since the lid covers the drinking lip, the bottle’s threads are on the drinking surface. While we generally don’t love the feeling of threads on the outside lip, these don’t protrude much, and we quickly got used to the feeling. Also, because of the 1.35-inch opening, it’s impossible to get prism-shaped ice cubes from a classic ice cube tray into the bottle. However, half-moon-shaped ice cubes do fit through the opening.

Thermos Hydration Bottle (24 ounces)

A budget option.

With a leakproof, push-button flip-top lid, this inexpensive and lightweight bottle should make anyone happy.

Size options (ounces): 24 Lids available: flip top (included) Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You value lightweight portability, and you like a good deal—two excellent qualities in a water bottle. This one is also dishwasher safe, unlike some other bottles we recommend.

Why it’s great: The super-affordable 24-ounce Thermos Hydration Bottle has been a pick since we first published this guide, in 2014, and it’s still here. (Thermos has made a few minor cosmetic changes over the years.) This is a plastic bottle with a plastic, flip-top lid and spout. It has passed years of leak tests, and the lid has a lock, so it will stay closed in your bag.

Another great feature of this bottle: Despite the fact that it holds 24 ounces—a capacity we’ve found to be cumbersome in a metal bottle—the Thermos possesses just the right proportions to be ergonomic and easy to carry.

This bottle weighs only 6.6 ounces. The textured, contoured design makes the Thermos easy to hold, too, and you can effortlessly drop ice cubes into the wide mouth. And after you reattach the lid, the spout is simple to drink out of. This design is a winning combination, the same as on a similar, insulated pick, the Takeya bottle. Also, the Thermos is made from Eastman Tritan BPA-free plastic.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: After using versions of the 24-ounce Thermos nearly constantly for seven years, we don’t have a lot of criticism. However, we do wish Thermos would sell this type of bottle in a few different sizes. Also, though the lid has a ring that you can turn to track your water intake, in practice we’ve found we barely use it. Still, it’s not hurting anything by being there.

CamelBak Podium 21oz Bike Bottle

A lightweight squeeze bottle.

This squeeze bottle is leakproof and light, so you can throw it into a carry-on bag for a flight. And the Podium is cheap enough that if the TSA makes you ditch it, you won’t be heartbroken.

Size options (ounces): 21 ,  24 Lids available: squeeze lid Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You want a travel bottle. This bottle was invented for a bike cage, but a regular ol’ squeeze bottle is useful for so many things, specifically airport travel. Eve personally owns (and uses) just two types of water bottle, and this is one of them.

Why it’s great: Basic, lightweight, and cheap, a bike squeeze bottle makes a great travel companion, and we like the CamelBak Podium in particular. It has a twist lock—which provides extra assurance that the bottle is tightly closed when you toss it in a bag. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe.

For years, we looked for a reliable collapsible travel bottle, but we’ve been disappointed so many times: The Hydaway tastes plasticky, the Vapur and the Platypus collapse (in a bad way) , the HydraPak flops, and the Nomader doesn’t pack down very small. And the implied way to carry a travel bottle correctly—clipped to a backpack or belt loop—always leaves it swinging around haphazardly, in our experience. We’ve recommended all of these bottles in the past, but we’ve constantly been left wishing there were a better way.

A bike squeeze bottle is now our sincere recommendation for airport travel. In addition to being light and relatively compact, this bottle is inexpensive, so if the TSA takes it, you’ve lost only a few dollars, instead of an expensive insulated bottle. You could also bring the Thermos Hydration Bottle we recommend. But this CamelBak bottle has fewer moving parts, if you don’t want to fuss with the lid or flip lock on the Thermos. Our other recommendation would be to buy a plastic bottle in the airport, and then use it for the rest of your trip.

Two types of Podium are available: the original and the Podium Chill , which has a reflective material in the lining intended to help keep water cold. We haven’t found this lining makes any difference. In our tests, the liquid in insulated squeeze bottles warmed 17 degrees over six hours, the same as in a glass or unlined plastic bottle. For that reason, we wouldn’t bother with the lined version and instead recommend the original. CamelBak offers a limited lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The lid on this bottle is not covered, so if you dislike the idea of a bottle swimming around in a bag with the drinking surface exposed, you may like the Thermos better. In addition, this bottle’s squeeze valve does not push in and out, as on other models. Instead, the mouthpiece is static, and the plastic piece inside releases water when you apply pressure to the bottle. So if you’re using this bottle for cycling, and you experience a ton of dust and dirt on your ride, some of it may get stuck in that mouthpiece.

Purist Mover (18 ounces)

Premium design and materials.

If you’re seeking an especially sleek-looking bottle, the Purist Mover is a good choice, and its (non-breakable) glass interior prevents flavors from transferring.

Size options (ounces): 10 (Maker), 18 (Mover), 32 (Founder) Lids available: Element (twist lid), Union (spout lid), Scope (café lid) Dishwasher safe: no

Get this if: You’ve noticed that odors or flavors in your water bottle don’t go away, you want a bottle that looks like a design object, or you want one bottle that can hold both hot and cold drinks. Purist’s bottle has a (non-breakable) glass interior that prevents flavors from transferring, so there should be no taste issues like you get with stainless steel or plastic.

Why it’s great: The 18-ounce Purist Mover is a drink bottle designed within an inch of its life. With a special lining made to stop flavor transfers, an aesthetic that looks designed to fit into a Tesla’s dashboard, and a newly expanded range of caps, this is a refined bottle that can do it all—and it’s worth the high price.

The signature feature of the Purist is a glass-lined interior that prevents tastes and odors from transferring. Unlike traditional glass vacuum linings, the Purist’s is unbreakable (and so minimal you can barely notice it), since it’s applied as a thin, spray-on coating. You get the benefits of a glass bottle minus the weight or potential breakage, plus it keeps drinks hot or cold.

And in our experience, the Purist bottle works. We’ve had this bottle in testing for three years, including one episode where we left the Purist under a car seat for a month with kombucha in it. Someone finally got the courage to open the bottle and clean it out, and the next day a bottle full of water tasted like water and nothing else. Wirecutter’s Tim Barribeau—who is pathologically averse to the taste of coffee—found that even after cold-brew concentrate sat in the Purist for a weekend, water came out tasting fresh (after a simple wash of the bottle). Some tastes and smells lingered in the flip-top lid, but those disappeared after a good scrub.

There are three lids that work with the Purist water bottle: the simple, screw-top Element , the flip-top spout Union , and the Scope , a café lid designed for hot beverages. The lip of the bottle is on the thick side, so if drinking from a thick-walled bottle would bother you, we’d recommend either the Union or the Scope.

Though 18-ounce bottles can feel small, the Mover can hold more than advertised. The Union spout cap is hollow and raised above the top of the bottle, in contrast with the flat Element cap, which plunges downward. That means using the Union cap, you can fill the bottle to the brim; we did, and that’s when we discovered the bottle can hold up to 21 ounces.

Purist has a lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: This bottle is clunky to drink out of if you use only the twist-off cap (the Element). So if you’re going to invest in the Purist, we recommend getting the spout lid (the Union) or the Scope cap (Purist’s version of a café cap). The Union spout cap is tricky to open due to its tight seal (but we found that if you pinch both sides of the spout, the cover pops off easily).

If you’re going camping: Consider the Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle , which is inexpensive, indestructible, and lightweight. It has more than 18,000 reviews on Amazon and a star rating of 4.8 out of 5, and we couldn’t agree more. For a decade now, we’ve been talking about why this isn’t among our picks.

But we still don’t include it, because in day-to-day life it’s sort of annoying. You can’t drink out of it while walking, the attached cap gets in your face, and it doesn’t fit a cupholder or a backpack pocket. Out there in the wild, it’s the ultimate weapon. Back here in the urban jungle, it’s just kind of a klutz. So, to summarize, we love this bottle, but specifically for camping. And that’s outside the scope of what we test for in this guide.

If you’re set on getting a collapsible travel bottle: Consider the Nomader 22-ounce collapsible bottle, which was our travel pick in 2018. It has stood the test of time, whereas other travel bottles have sprung leaks. If you must have a travel bottle, this one is the easiest to fill and drink from. Our big concern is that this bottle doesn’t roll down particularly small, so it’s up to you to decide whether the space savings are worth it.

If you want a spout lid on a lightweight, plastic bottle: After a reimagining of the lid on the CamelBak Chute —resulting in the addition of a magnet to keep the lid open and out of the way while you’re drinking—we can’t find any serious negatives for this bottle. The Takeya Actives just barely nudges the Chute out of competition because the Takeya comes with the silicone base, and it’s often on sale. However, the Chute’s lid is compatible with our new recommendation for use while driving, the CamelBak Eddy+ .

We’ve been at this for ten years. And, as always, we start by reading trusted editorial sources, in this case outlets such as Gear Patrol , GearLab , and Outside . In addition, each year, we listen to the opinions of Wirecutter’s readers—we’ve incorporated a number of great suggestions from the comments on previous iterations of this guide.

There are so many water bottles in the world that it’s helpful for us to outline what we don’t consider and why. When we find bottles with a pattern of complaints about build quality, usability, or leakage, we drop them from the list of possible test candidates. We also eliminate bottles made by companies that appear to have an opaque supply chain or no online presence outside of an Amazon listing. In any category, if we recommend a product, we want to make sure you won’t have a problem finding one to buy. And if a product is defective, you should be able to contact the manufacturer so that the company can make it right.

We no longer consider bottles made of aluminum because it dents too easily. And when possible we avoid bottles that have painted exteriors because the coating can tend to scratch; in certain categories, however, painted exteriors are the norm. We also set aside uncoated stainless steel bottles—if you leave an uncoated metal bottle in the sun, the exterior becomes too hot to hold.

Some other bottles, including the Klean Kanteen Wide Mouth, can easily serve as water bottles. But because of the caps offered (travel mug caps) or the sizes available (limited to smaller sizes), they are more suited to hot drinks. In the case of the Klean Kanteen, both things are true, so we consider it to be a travel mug. If that’s what you’re looking for, we have a guide to travel mugs for hot beverages .

For our most recent round of testing, in 2022, we tried nine new bottles and performed several tests to evaluate them. Here are the tests we regularly conduct:

We do leak tests. There are so many bottles that we can’t see recommending one that leaks in any way. We fill each bottle with water that’s dyed with food coloring. Then we place the bottle on its side over a paper towel for 24 hours and watch for leaks.

The leak test also takes into account how the lid seats on the bottle. We believe good design is human-centered design, and that you should be able to absent-mindedly screw the top back on and trust that the bottle is properly closed.

And we’ve discovered over time that rigid sport caps, like the ones you can get for Klean Kanteen or HydroFlask bottles, are not the best at preventing leaks because they’re prone to user error. Such caps make perfect sense on squeezable sport bottles. But the sport caps that come on double-walled steel bottles are stiffer, so they’re easy to inadvertently leave open. It’s also difficult to tell at a glance whether the valve is fully closed.

We do temperature tests. For five years, we performed temperature tests with the goal of seeing which bottle kept its contents the coldest for the longest. Here are the results from 2017:

In this 2017 test, we filled each bottle with water at 47 degrees Fahrenheit, and then we took a temperature measurement every hour for 10 hours. What we’ve seen in years of testing is that almost every insulated bottle performs to within a few degrees of its competition. There are exceptions, but they’re rare. Companies love to make claims about how long a bottle can keep something hot or cold, but they all work basically the same.

Sometimes manufacturers make bottles with copper linings in an attempt to keep the contents even hotter or colder. It could work, and as Wesley Johnson, a cryogenics research engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, explained, “For spacecraft, we often use a similar technique for insulation.” The theory behind using copper in insulation (despite its being an excellent conductor normally) is based on the fact that heat transfers through three forms: solid conduction, gaseous convection, and radiation, Johnson told us. A double-walled bottle already stops solid conduction, and a vacuum-insulated bottle stops gaseous convection. “This leaves only radiation heat transfer between the walls,” Johnson said. And copper can work to stop that last method of heat loss. But it works only under a set of specific circumstances. “The main benefit of copper is that when it is polished, it is much more reflective of radiation heat transfer,” Johnson explained. So, “the copper liner needs to be: polished, installed in a vacuum, and done so in a manner that limits the amount of oxidation of the metal prior to pulling the vacuum.”

We have tested bottles with and without copper linings, and so far we haven’t found any advantage to using copper. The Yeti Rambler is “constructed with a copper plate to protect against UV,” according to the company’s PR reps. But neither Klean Kanteen nor Hydro Flask includes any copper in its designs, and all the bottles still insulate within degrees of one another.

We consider bottle proportions. After nine years, we’re convinced that 20- to 22-ounce bottles are the perfect size. Although 17-ounce bottles are wonderfully portable, the contents get consumed quickly. And 24-ounce bottles are almost too tall and skinny. They can be very easy to knock over, and they don’t stay upright in cup holders because they’re top-heavy. They begin to take on the appearance of blunt-force weapons: The 25-ounce S’well could double as a small baseball bat.

We like bottles with the right proportions, and we have to believe designers have noticed the awkwardness of the 24-ounce size. For instance, in 2020 the Takeya Actives became available in a 22-ounce size (slightly smaller than the 24-ounce version, which had been our previous pick). Similarly, 32-ounce bottles are most useful when they are wide and squat instead of tall. When we make recommendations for larger capacities, such design concerns are a big part of what we take into consideration.

We consider the drinking experience. Think about the lip: If you’re drinking directly from the bottle, what is that experience like? If you’re trying to drink out of it while walking, what is that like? If you’re drinking from it in a car, what is that like? And recently, due to reader comments, we’ve been tracking whether the cap of a bottle covers the drinking surface completely or whether it’s exposed. Some people are concerned about bacteria getting onto the lip of their bottle, via contact with their hands or with sweaty gym clothes.

Metal bottles

The Yeti Rambler is a reliable bottle. But its opening does not taper at all, so this bottle is more of a thermos and more suitable for using a spoon, with something like soup.

The S’well bottle insulates with the best of them, and it has been watertight in all our tests. If you like it, go for it: S’well bottles are just more expensive, at every capacity, than anything else we’ve seen.

The Simple Modern Summit bottle leaked through the threads when we left it on its side overnight.

In past years, the Klean Kanteen Classic has been one of our picks, and we’ve tested the Insulated Classic as well. They’re both very similar to a Hydro Flask, but in 2019’s testing, both bottles had small leaks. For 2022, we tested the Klean Kanteen Insulated Classic with Pour Through Cap . Though this new lid’s dual gaskets fix the leaking problem, it took twice as many turns to open the pour-through cap compared with most other bottles. This bottle works great as a thermos to carry hot drinks to pour into a smaller cup, but it’s not great as a water bottle. Plus, the cap is metal, as is the bottle, and everyone who tested this model hated the metal-on-metal sound of the cap threading into the bottle.

The Corkcicle Classic Canteen performed well in every regard, but its lid is the smallest of of those on other bottles we tested. In fact, the lid was so small we were afraid we’d lose it.

The Corkcicle Series A Sport Canteen performed poorly in our insulation tests. Also, though it didn’t leak during testing, we thought the quick-sip lid was too prone to human error to be genuinely leak-proof.

Several other bottles leaked in our testing and were thus disqualified, including the 21-ounce Healthy Human Stein .

Other bottles performed poorly in our insulation tests, including the 25-ounce Fifty/Fifty Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel , the Laken Thermo Classic (its contents rose by 20.1 degrees during our test), and the Contigo Autoseal Chill .

Though we like the inclusion of a mesh strainer inside the lid of the EcoVessel Boulder , this bottle has the same problem as the Nalgene: The lid is connected with a long silicone strap that doesn’t stay put when you drink from it, unless you hold it down.

The mouthpiece on the EcoVessel Wave with Fliptop Straw is made of hard plastic, and it was not as pleasant to drink out of as the CamelBak Eddy+ .

The Stanley Quik Flip Go Bottle is one of the few flip-top bottles we’ve found that has a lock to secure the top. But this bottle is especially tall and unwieldy. It would make a better thermos than a water bottle.

The Coldest Water bottle has a flip-top straw that’s also made of hard plastic, like that of the EcoVessel Wave with Fliptop Straw. And it’s not that nice to drink out of.

We passed on the Coleman Autoseal FreeFlow Stainless bottle for the same reason we pass on most trigger bottles—a relatively elaborate cap that needs detailed cleaning.

Glass bottles

A pick from 2017, the 22-ounce Lifefactory Classic Flip was the best wide-mouth glass bottle available. There are just a few caveats. First, the wide mouth is a bit awkward to drink out of—it feels a lot like drinking out of a jar. Second, although the bottle has alternate lid options, we tested the Flip Cap in 2018, and it leaked. (That lid has since been discontinued.) Third, the standard lid is watertight but made of plastic, a concern for many people seeking glass bottles.

In drop testing, the Glasstic suffered from extensive scuffing.

The 20-ounce Ello Syndicate had a cap problem, with reports of mold building up.

Collapsible bottles

The Hydaway was our collapsible travel pick in 2018, and it proved polarizing: We received feedback both from people who loved it and from others who hated it. Such is the fate of all collapsibles we’ve tried. A 50/50 love-hate relationship didn’t convince us this bottle was a reliable recommendation for most travelers.

Our 2017 travel pick, the Platypus Meta , tends to develop a small hole in its bottom, which renders it useless for carrying water. Our 2016 pick, the Platypus SoftBottle , is watertight but floppy, as all collapsible bag-bottles are.

Before that, we picked the 1-liter Vapur . However, CNET’s Tim Stevens brought to our attention a design flaw in the cap that caused it to leak when lateral torsion was applied. We were able to replicate the issue independently using a brand-new bottle. As such, we no longer feel confident recommending it. Both the Vapur Element and the Nalgene Wide Mouth Cantene also leaked from their seams during our twist-and-torque test.

Plastic bottles

The Pogo plastic water bottle is basic and functional. We like the lid (again, just as with the Takeya ) and the flip top that closes over the spout. We encountered no leaks, but at the time we tested this bottle, it had a bad Fakespot rating (a D). As of 2023, the rating was a B, so we plan to look at it again.

The trendy reemergence of the Gatorade squeeze bottle prompted us to put it to the test in 2020. There was some small leakage through the threads when we left the bottle on its side overnight.

The Nalgene On The Fly comes with a locking flip-top lid but no spring release, so the lid wouldn’t pop open when we pushed the button.

The Embrava would be a good choice if the 24-ounce Thermos isn’t available, but it has a huge logo and a smooth body that becomes slick when wet.

If you’re drinking anything besides water, gunk will build up in your bottle over time, so you’ll need to clean it occasionally. The best way to do that is to use a bottle brush and some baking soda and vinegar.

OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set

For cleaning your bottle.

The OXO bottle-cleaning set includes a skinny straw brush and a looped, detail-cleaning brush—everything you need to keep your water bottle squeaky-clean.

After several hours of research, we found that the best bottle-cleaning set is the OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set . This dishwasher-safe kit offers a large bottle brush, a skinny straw brush, and a looped, detail-cleaning brush, all kept together on a handy ring so you don’t lose any parts. We bought a couple of sets to confirm their quality, and they are as good as we thought they would be.

This article was edited by Eve O’Neill and Christine Ryan.

Wesley Johnson, cryogenics research engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland , email interview , August 22, 2018

Jocelyn Ivanov, MIT, Drinking fountains: the past and future of free public water in the United States , September 29, 2015

PH Gleick, HS Cooley, Energy implications of bottled water (PDF) , Environmental Research Letters , February 19, 2009

Bottling Our Cities' Tap Water (PDF) , Food & Water Watch , August 1, 2010

No consumer health risk from bisphenol A exposure , European Food Safety Authority , January 21, 2015

Jon Hamilton, Beyond BPA: Court Battle Reveals A Shift In Debate Over Plastic Safety , NPR , February 16, 2015

Johanna R. Rochester, Ashley L. Bolden, Bisphenol S and F: A Systematic Review and Comparison of the Hormonal Activity of Bisphenol A Substitutes , Environmental Health Perspectives , July 1, 2015

Jenna Bilbrey, BPA-Free Plastic Containers May Be Just as Hazardous , Scientific American , August 11, 2014

M. Ridder, Sales volume of bottled water in the United States from 2010 to 2020 , Statista , May 10, 2022

Meet your guides

Eve O'Neill

Eve O'Neill is a former senior staff writer reporting on travel and outdoors at Wirecutter. She can remember the titles on her childhood bookshelf that set her in this direction: Into Thin Air, On The Road, The Call of the Wild . She has always been drawn to ideas about how to relate to, and play in, the wilderness.

Sam Schild is a writer and outdoor adventurer based in Denver. A former academic, teacher, and bicycle mechanic, he now finds joy in adventures as often as possible. Whether he travels by bicycle or on foot, he uses his experience outside to bring inspiration to all the stories he tells.

Further reading

How to Clean a Travel Mug or Water Bottle

by Christine Ryan

Don’t want your coffee to taste like yesterday’s brew? Give your travel mug a good deep clean—and do the same for your insulated water bottle, too!

This Inexpensive Water Bottle Is Meant for Cyclists, But It’s Great for Travelers, Too

The Camelbak Podium is affordable, lightweight, and perfect for packing.

We’ve Recommended This Travel Mug for a Decade. It’s Still Going Strong.

by James Austin

Our longtime favorite travel mug keeps drinks piping hot, and the nifty locking lid makes it virtually spill-proof.

The Best Travel Mug

by Trey French and Anna Perling

After testing travel mugs for more than 10 years, we’re still confident that the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug is the best mug to keep drinks hot for hours.

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• Hiking & Camping

The 13 Best Water Bottles for Travel [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

779 Published Articles

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Editor-in-Chief

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Why Should You Travel With a Water Bottle?

Impact of plastic and bottles on the environment, things to consider with a water bottle, 1. great for adventurous globetrotters, 2. best for backpackers and hardcore travelers, 1. cheap and cheerful everyday water bottle, 2. best for sporting adventures, 1. top quality from a family business, 2. the not-a-stainless-steel bottle, 3. best for fashion-forward adventurers, 4. built-to-last insulated water bottle, 5. for those wanting funky bottle designs, 1. for those who like to travel light, 2. best for space-saving travelers on a budget, 1. the budget infuser, 2. best for healthy drinkers, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Carrying a water bottle means you’ll always have access to a cool drink when you need it while feeling good about reducing your carbon footprint with every step you take!

Here are our top recommendations for the best water bottles to accompany you on all your travel adventures.

Investing in a reusable, refillable water bottle is much better than simply buying a plastic bottle every time you get thirsty. From a trip to the gym to a long-distance road trip, your water bottle is important for so many different reasons, including:

• Save Money — Having a refillable water bottle saves a fortune on having to buy water, juice, or soda whenever you feel thirsty.
• Stay Healthy — Our bodies are made mostly of water, and we need to drink a least 1.5 liters of the good stuff a day. Water helps keep our joints moving freely and improves our skin, eyesight, and general well-being.
• Drink Healthy — Single-use plastic water bottles can contain the chemical BPA, which has been linked to hormonal issues and even cancer. Switching to a reusable BPA-free water bottle will help keep you healthy.
• Stay Hydrated — If you’re traveling somewhere very hot, you need to drink even more water than usual to remain hydrated. Not consuming enough water can cause headaches, sickness, and sometimes serious health conditions.
• Drink Clean — Not all countries have the same water treatment processes, and drinking water that our bodies aren’t used to can make us unwell. Drinking filtered water from your very own bottle will reduce any risk of upset stomach (or worse) in some locations.
• Support the Environment — Not buying plastic bottles helps to save our environment. Single-use plastic bottles are responsible for a vast majority of the world’s marine pollution, and they provide further problems with landfills on dry land.

In the U.S. alone, millions of plastic water bottles end up in landfills every day . These bottles may seem like a convenient way to enjoy the fresh, cool water that our bodies need to stay well, but they are filling up our landfills and crippling our oceans.

The plastic bottle production process utilizes the petroleum product polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This product requires a large amount of fossil fuel to both make the bottles and transport them. For every single-use bottle manufactured, the equivalent of 1.4 gallons (5.3 liters) of clean water is also needed to make it. ¹

Plastic water bottles are also incredibly hard to recycle — meaning that the more of them we use, the more is left leaching dangerous chemicals into the ground since they take more than a human lifetime to decompose fully.

And the plastic bottle tops that give you convenient access to your water cause huge problems for marine animals worldwide. If fewer people buy single-use plastic water bottles, there will be less opportunity for them to be manufactured, distributed, and eventually disposed of in landfills or oceans.

If all this hasn’t convinced you to buy your own water bottle, we don’t know what will!

When buying a new water bottle, you should consider the following:

Your water bottle needs to be reusable, durable, free from leaks, and easy to clean. Most water bottles are made from either stainless steel or plastic, as these materials offer affordable ways to mass-produce drinking bottles.

Reusable plastic options offer a wide range of shapes, sizes, and designs — and most of the ones available today are BPA-free, making them super safe for both you and the environment.

Stainless steel bottles are far better insulated and perfect for keeping hot drinks warmer for longer. They may cost more to buy than a standard plastic bottle, but they should last you for a long time if you take care of them.

Water bottles come in all shapes and sizes.

Vacuum-insulated bottles can keep your water super cold all day long or your beverages hot for up to 5 hours straight.

• Glass bottles are beautiful and efficiently solve the problem of plastic waste and unwanted BPAs, but they can be breakable and do not insulate as well.
• Stainless steel bottles are non-reactive, BPA-free, and lightweight compared to glass bottles. They are also usually affordable since they can last a long time as long as they’re cared for and cleaned properly (handwash only!).
• Plastic bottles are the most popular type of refillable bottle in the U.S. today. You can fill them with all types of liquid, and choose from pop-up tops, flip tops, or even just plain screw lids.
• Collapsible water bottles are also popular if you are short on space. You can flatten them when empty, and they will bounce back into shape when they are full again.

Carry just enough water for your needs. Choose a bottle that can hold enough water to last you in between refills, but not one that is so large and heavy it becomes difficult to carry. Most water bottles are between 16 ounces (473 milliliters) to 24 ounces (708 milliliters).

Free of Chemicals

Reusable plastic bottles are designed to be BPA-free and made from materials that will not pose any risk to your health. There are even companies out there that manufacture water bottles made from sugar cane that are free from BPA, phthalates, and additives. Some recycled paper or stainless steel bottles come complete with natural bamboo stoppers.

Easy To Clean

A practical water bottle is one that is easy to clean. Over time, mold and mildew can build up in the spout and base of the bottle if it is not cleaned regularly, and you definitely won’t want to drink out of that! Plastic sports-style bottles, glass bottles, and some vacuum bottles can go in the dishwasher. Stainless steel and collapsible bottles may need to be washed by hand.

Filters and Purifiers

There are lots of bottles on the market that offer much more than just a practical, easy-to-clean vessel for carrying your beverage around. Some bottles even feature filters that remove chlorine and other contaminants from the water in the bottle, giving you purified water with every sip.

Insulated water bottles are designed to keep the temperature of your drink stable over prolonged periods. The quality and thickness of the insulation will dictate how effective it will be. Whether you’re planning on taking a hot coffee to work with you or ice-cold water on a very hot day, an insulated bottle will keep the temperature constant for 4 or 5 hours at least.

Bottles need to be easily accessible for filling up, but also securely closed to prevent leakage. Most bottles will have a screw top for cleaning and refilling.

When it comes to enjoying those beverages, there are a huge variety of different caps, spouts, and openings to choose from:

• Wide-mouth bottles that open like cups
• Sports cap bottles that you pull up with your teeth
• Pop-up straw spouts that fold down to prevent leaks
• Screwcap bottles that open like a traditional flask
• Spouts that twist like coffee cups

The weight of your water bottle will obviously depend on whether it’s full of liquid or not. If your water bottle feels quite heavy without any water in it, imagine how heavy it will feel when it’s full !

The lighter, the better, especially if you’re carrying it long distances or traveling with it in your bag. Note that stainless steel water bottles are usually much heavier than their plastic counterparts.

The 2 Best Filter Water Bottles

There are hundreds of different types of water bottles on the market. Make your choice based on your own needs and preferences, but pat yourself on the back for choosing to step away from environmentally damaging single-use plastics.

• LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles

The LifeStraw series by Danish company Vestergaard filters water while you drink, making it perfect for camping, backpacking, and emergency kits. The award-winning LifeStraw hollow fiber membrane protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chlorine, and other chemicals.

BPA-free and incredibly durable, the microbiological filter promises up to 5 years of safe drinking water while you travel. And the 23-ounce leakproof bottle is large enough to keep you hydrated, featuring a food-grade silicone mouthpiece.

Wherever you roam, this bottle can remove 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites without chemicals, iodine, or batteries, meaning all water can become safe drinking water. It also provides clean water for 1 year for 1 child through its innovative “One Purchase, One Child” program .

What We Like

• Great for the environment and communities in need

What We Don’t Like

• The straw is a little difficult to suck liquid through
• GRAYL UltraPress Water Purifier Bottle

This traditional-looking water bottle hides a clever secret: the GRAYL One Press design can transform dirty water into clean, drinkable water in around 10 seconds . How awesome is that?

The manufacturer claims their clever filter system can remove 99.9% of viruses, including hepatitis A, norovirus, and rotavirus, as well as 99.9999% of disease-causing bacteria that are responsible for E. coli, salmonella, and dysentery.

But the fun doesn’t end there — the filtering process also leaves no aftertaste, just cool refreshing water. This is the perfect investment if you’ll be traveling anywhere safe drinking water is hard to come by. Great for camping, hiking, backpacking, and hitting the open road, this clever bottle is a little pricey but could be a lifesaver.

• Creates great-tasting, purified water
• The lid is not attached to the bottle, so can be easily dropped

The 2 Best Plastic Water Bottles

• Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

The Nalgene everyday water bottle is an American legend that’s still popular today. Made from BPA-free Eastman Tritan co-polyester, this popular bottle is incredibly impact-resistant. It’s also dishwasher safe on the top rack for a squeaky clean every time.

Made to withstand temperatures between -158 degrees to 212 degrees , you can use this bottle for all of your beverages. The wide mouth makes for easy cleaning, and the bottle can accommodate most water filters for crystal-clear refreshment every time you sip.

As the trailblazer of American-made water bottles, this one will keep you hydrated without leaking a single drop. The manufacturers are proud that their original design hasn’t changed in decades — if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

• Easy to keep track of how much water you’ve drunk
• Doesn’t fit standard water bottle holders, like in a car, for example

CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle, 32oz

The well-loved Chute bottle from CamelBak has been improved upon over time, and is now one of the most popular drinking bottles in the U.S. With a new magnetic top that easily stows the cap, and its ever-popular angled spout , storing and drinking on the go has never been easier.

Made from the highest-grade plastics that are free from BPA, BPS, and BPF materials, the makers of the Chute say you’ll “taste your beverage, not the bottle.” Without any nasty chemicals to leave a bad taste in your mouth, you can enjoy crystal-clear water wherever your journey takes you.

The unique spout design provides a high flow of water that won’t slosh or spill, and the durable, leakproof 32-ounce bottle is big enough to see you through the longest journeys between refills. Available in a selection of sizes and colors, the Chute is a great choice for sports, travel, or even just everyday commuting.

• Easy to fill with ice through the large opening
• Doesn’t keep the water cold

The 5 Best Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Klean kanteen classic single wall stainless steel bottle.

The ethos behind this family-run business is to provide products that really last. The Klean Kanteen bottle embodies their values perfectly, and it’s made from a patented chip-resistant finish that is designed to withstand anything your adventures can throw at it .

Klean Kanteen also believes in prioritizing human safety in their drinking bottles, meaning they work hard to eliminate ingredients that could adversely affect people, as well as the environment. This particular bottle has a large opening that can fit ice cubes and is compatible with all of the Klean Kanteen Classic caps.

The easy-to-clean electro-polished interior doesn’t retain or impart flavors, and the stainless steel body keeps your water cooler longer. Available in a selection of sizes and bright colors, these are perfect for travel.

• Sturdy and solid if dropped
• The sports cap can be difficult to keep clean

Sigg Traveller Water Bottle

These Swiss drinking bottles are in vogue at the moment — they may not be the most practical choice, but the Sigg bottle is beautifully designed!

Sigg is proud that each bottle is made from a single sheet of 100% recyclable aluminum , creating a uniform and seamless construction that looks and feels great. And with a solvent-free, eco-friendly, powder-based coating, you’ll certainly have all your carbon footprint credentials checked with this bottle.

The 1-liter water bottle is a practical size that works well in your backpack or messenger bag. Great looking and with an exterior as smooth as the hood of a sports car, these bottles are fantastic to drink from. The downside is that you cannot freeze them, and you can only hand wash them with warm, soapy water (or invest in some specialist SIGG cleaning tablets and a brush).

• Bit of a pain to clean

Hydro Flask 18 oz Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

These brightly colored, funky drink bottles have a unique powder coat finish that works alongside the TempShield insulation to create a stainless steel bottle that is comfortable to hold and doesn’t suffer from condensation . Just what the world has been waiting for!

The eye-catching design is minimalist and cool, and the 18-ounce size is just right for your sports bag, backpack, or travel bag. Made using non-toxic BPA-free plastics and 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, this is a quality bottle that is also brilliantly practical.

The Hydro Flask’s double-walled, vacuum-insulated TempShield will keep your warm drinks hot for up to 12 hours, and cool drinks cold for up to 24 hours — perfect for whatever you’re drinking and wherever you’re headed.

• Double insulation keeps the water nice and cold
• The carrying strap is not the most durable
• MIRA Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

This rugged sports water bottle is made from high-quality food-grade 18/8 stainless steel and is built to last! Beautifully crafted and guaranteed not to rust (provided you care for it correctly), the Mira Insulated Water Bottle should stay with you for many years to come.

The lid is completely leakproof, and the bottle is free from BPA and phthalates, meaning both you and the environment remain protected. It has a larger opening at the top and double-walled vacuum insulation to keep your beverages cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.

Great looking and practical, the Mira bottle will look as good as new with a hand wash, but it’s not dishwasher safe. Apart from that, it’s a cool-looking bottle that will keep you refreshed wherever you are.

• Can hold hot as well as cold liquids
• Not suitable for the dishwasher

Healthy Human Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

Designed to keep your drinks icy cold for a long time, a Healthy Human bottle will make you feel like you’re guzzling glacial meltwater. Made from 100% premium food-grade 18/8 stainless steel (and also BPA-free with no plastic lining in the bottle or lid), you taste exactly what you would expect: nothing but your drink!

This bottle also promises to be 100% leakproof and sweat-free, meaning you can stow it anywhere without worrying about messy leaks or spills . The double-walled exterior and vacuum-insulated interior will keep your liquids cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours — perfect for long journeys in between refills.

The Healthy Human water bottle also comes with a variety of accessories, including a carabiner to clip onto your bag or stroller , a sticker, and a “Hydro Guide.” It also comes beautifully packaged, making it the perfect gift for your fellow adventurers.

• Available in 4 sizes and a range of colors and designs
• Chips easily

The 2 Best Collapsible Water Bottles

Bulunow travel water bottle.

This ingenious water bottle collapses up to a fraction of its size when empty , making it perfect for long-distance travel. Made from 100% food-grade materials and completely free of BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalates, lead, latex, and other harmful leaching chemicals, this is a supercool drink bottle with a serious pedigree behind it.

Incredibly durable, you can throw this baby around without causing damage. The flexible, shatter-proof silicone body is designed to survive drops and knocks, while the triple leak-proof design for the lid will eliminate leaks and spills completely. The cap also doubles up as a spout cover to keep germs off the mouthpiece.

Dishwasher safe (unlike some of the other bestselling bottles we’ve mentioned), this collapsible silicone bottle can handle hot or cot drinks and is even freezable. What more to say? The Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle is perfect for every traveler.

• Compact to transport when not in use
• Bottle sweats a little on the outside

Hydrapak Soft Flask, 150ml

Designed to keep you fully charged on the go, this lightweight 150 milliliters (5.3 ounces) collapsible flask allows for instant hydration whatever you’re doing and wherever you are.

The compact dimensions of the Soft Flask mean it fits easily in most hydration vests , belts, or pack pockets for easy transportation, and the soft material will conform to any pocket. As you drink, it immediately shrinks — making it even easier to stow away between refills.

Loved by many athletes and adventurers, the UltraFlask’s durable TPU compound can stand up to pretty much anything you throw at it. Being 100% BPA and PVC-free, it doesn’t have any weird taste or harmful chemicals. This is a neat little bottle that’s great if you want something practical yet reasonably priced.

• Can be filled with energy gels
• Requires 2 hands to open

The 2 Best Infusion Water Bottles

Infusion pro water infuser – 24 oz fruit infused water bottle.

This affordable infuser bottle is great for anyone who wants to add a little bit of pizzazz to their water. Made from 100% Eastman Tritan BPA-free plastic, you can fill this fruit infuser with a flavor of your choice for great-tasting refreshment on the go .

Simply pop some fruits or veggies into the extra-large infuser basket and wait for the flavor to fill the water. The strainer stops seeds, pulp, or ice from clogging the drinking spout while giving you an awesome-tasting healthy beverage that’s a little more exciting than just plain water.

The addition of an insulating neoprene sleeve and carry strap means you can take your flavored water anywhere you want, and it will still be nicely chilled when you get there. Great for anyone wanting to detox or lose weight, as well as those who want to stay refreshed while they travel, this bottle makes drinking water taste just a bit better.

• Dishwasher safe
• The flip lid is quite fragile

Live Infinitely 32 oz. Infuser Water Bottle

Infusion bottles give you the unique opportunity to naturally flavor your water with any combination of fruit you can think of. With dual hand grips and a dedicated sports spout, this is the perfect bottle for staying hydrated on the go.

Another bottle made from durable Eastman Tritan, these bottles are BPA-free and FDA approved to be safe for use with food and beverages. The water infuser is also leakproof, and the locking lid means you never have to worry about spills. It is also easy to clean and dishwasher-friendly.

This bottle offers a full length infuser rod, meaning you can plenty of fruit to flavor your water . It’s great for anyone adding natural nutrients to their daily lifestyle, while still drinking all the H2O they need to function well and stay healthy.

• Sports spout for easy drinking
• Small bits of fruit or herbs can get through the large infuser holes

Your water bottle is so much more than just a vessel to hold your refreshment. Modern refillable bottles are not only on-trend and practical, but they also help save the planet with their impressive low carbon and eco-friendly manufacturing credentials.

Water bottles can also save your life! If you’re traveling to the far-flung corners of the earth, a built-in filtration system can give you safe, clean water to drink when you need it most.

Invest in the bottle that best suits your requirements, and go for quality overlooks to ensure that your bottle lasts for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you travel with a water bottle.

There are many reasons! Traveling with a water bottle helps you save money, stay healthy and hydrated, drink clean, and support the environment.

What is the best filter water bottle for travel?

There are hundreds of different types of water bottles on the market. Make your choice based on your own needs and preferences, but pat yourself on the back for choosing to step away from environmentally damaging single-use plastics. These are a few of our favorites:

• CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle

Can you bring a stainless steel water bottle on an airplane?

Stainless steel water bottles are permitted to be taken on board an airplane. The water bottle must be empty when you pass through TSA.

What to consider when buying a water bottle for travel?

• Free of chemicals
• Easy to clean
• Filters and purifiers

Are there water bottles for hot and cold beverages?

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Best Travel Water Bottle (Top 9 + How To Choose the Right One)

When traveling your water bottle is like your trusty sidekick. It stays close by your side whether clipped to your pack, in your hand or stuffed inside your purse or carry on. So choosing the best travel water bottle is an important task.

Your water bottle saves you money in airports when you are likely to pay upwards of $10.00 for a small Dasani.

It can give you extra filtration when your water source is a little questionable. And most importantly, it prevents you from making the unnecessary waste of hundreds of disposable water bottles you would otherwise use while traveling.

So, what goes into making the best water bottle for travel? The truth is there are tons of options that are all a matter of preference and personal necessity.

There are materials to consider, features to evaluate, basic construction o think about and even the amount of weight it adds to your overall travel gear.

So here is a breakdown of each of these categories so you can find that perfect travel water bottle for you. 

Best Travel Water Bottle: Top 5

Table of Contents

Quick Answer-Best Water Bottles for Travel

• Best Overall Water Bottle:  S’well Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Best Filtered Water Bottle:  LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle
• Best Insulated Water Bottle:  Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle
• Most Lightweight Water Bottle:  Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle
• Coolest Water Bottle:  Klean Kanteen Classic Stainless Steel Bottle
• Best Collapsible Water Bottle:  Nomader BPA Free Collapsible Sports Water Bottle
• Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle: Klean Kanteen Classic Stainless Steel Double Wall Insulated Water Bottle
• Best Plastic Water Bottle:  Thermos Intak 24 Ounce Hydration Bottle
• Best Glass Water Bottle:  Lifefactory BPA-Free Glass Water Bottle

How to Choose the Best Travel Water Bottle

Bottle materials to consider.

You have multiple choices when it comes to choosing the material for your water bottle, each having their own pros and cons. Some are better insulators, others are more affordable.

One may be more durable while another is light as air. Here are the four most popular water bottle materials currently on the market and how they stack up against each other.  

Plastic water bottles are probably the most versatile you can get. They come in a multitude of colors and styles. They can be rigid or collapsible, narrow or wide, clear or colorful.

It all depends on what you prefer. They are also the most affordable travel water bottle and can take some scraps and knocks without breaking.

However, it is important to note that not all plastic water bottles are the same. Because of the liberty manufacturers can take when creating them, some will be less durable than others.

Thinner plastics will naturally break easier and cheaper materials could lead to a few defaults such as the cap not screwed tight enough to prevent water from leaking out.

So, if you decide on a plastic water bottle for travel be sure it comes from a reputable company that provides a form of guarantee. Also, all plastic water bottle is created through the use of multiple chemicals.

While producers no longer use BPA (a known endocrine disrupter) to make them, there are still many chemicals that may or may not be of health concern. 

STAINLESS STEEL

If you are looking for a water bottle with overall durability without the risk of contact with chemicals, stainless steel water bottles are a great option.

While they may dent when banged around, they rarely break or crack. This may affect the aesthetic properties, but it will never leave you high and dry when you need it the most.

That being said, everything is only as good as its weakest point. What we mean is that many stainless-steel water bottles still come with a plastic cap that may not survive the fall.

If you want the maximum durability, go with a completely stainless-steel model that also has a stainless steel screw-on cap. The only real down-side to these metal bottles is that they lack any form of insulation.

That means your hot liquids are likely to get cold faster while your cold liquids will warm up quickly. 

Glass is a highly preferred option when it comes to travel water bottles. Water just tastes better when it comes to the glass.

Their transparency also helps you to moderate your intake, and the silicone sleeves that generally come on the outside of the bottle are great for grip and keeping your hand away from the internal cold or heat.

Glass poses no health risks and is extremely easy to clean. The down-side? They are very easy to break. Any fall against a hard surface and your water bottle are likely to shatter into a million pieces. 

Aluminum water bottles combine many of the benefits that we find from stainless steel and plastic. They are very affordable, can be recycled, are highly durable denting rather than breaking and are decently insulated.

They are also the lightest option next to plastic. Their only problems come from their reactivity to acid and ease of care.

Most aluminum water bottles come with an epoxy external layer that protects them from contact with various acids. However, as that epoxy degrades over time the exposure may lead to rusting. They are also not the easiest option to clean. 

Weight Considerations

When traveling you will likely be carrying your water bottle with you most of the time. This can seem more of a hassle if your water bottle is large and heavy. The overall weight is generally measured in ounces when empty.

Plastic is always going to be the lightest, but aluminum is definitely a close second. Stainless steel, on‌ ‌the‌ ‌other‌ ‌hand, becomes cumbersome over extended use and is not always the best option for those looking to travel minimally.

Besides the main materials, there are other factors that can up the weight of your water bottle. Internal insulation liners, external grips, and heavy-duty caps will all add to the weight of your water bottle.  

Water Bottle Size & Volume Considerations

Your standard handheld water bottles are almost always going to hold about 12 ounces of fluid.

However, if you are looking to expand the size for long days trips or hikes , you can upgrade to jugs or hydration packs that can generally hold 1-3 liters of water.

These are not recommended for everyday travel just because of their bulk, which can be very useful once you have arrived.

Desired Water Bottle Features

For something as simple as a water bottle, you may be surprised to learn that there are a ton of features that should be taken into account before you buy.

Again, these can be chalked up to personal preference, but it is a good idea to know what to look for before you go in for the purchase. 

• Insulation– Stainless steel, aluminum and glass water bottle all require some form of insulation as they do not have these natural capabilities. Insulation can come as an external or internal liner that keeps everything warm or cold depending on the scenario. Insulation will also prevent your bottle from sweating, which could reduce your grip and potentially lead to dropping and breaking. Most insulation is made from different forms of plastic. So, if you are avoiding exposure to plastics, look for external insulation.
• Internal filter– If you are traveling abroad it may be beneficial to look into water bottles with an internal filter. This is because you don’t know the water standards of each country and it is better to be prepared than ending up sick. There are some filtered water bottles than can give you the ability to grab water from anywhere including a stream or a pond. Others simply add a little extra protection against harmful chemicals or metals that may be found in the local tap. If choosing a travel water bottle with a filter, be sure to note the type of toxins it filters out as well as its recommended use. Also, be aware that choosing an internal filter will greatly add to the overall weight of your water bottle.
• Wide mouth vs. Narrow– A narrow-mouthed water bottle is the most popular option. They allow you to drink while on the move without splashing or dripping and are the perfect size for your mouth. However, wide mouth water bottles will allow you to add ice cubes without the hassle and are much easier to clean and fill. Wide mouth water bottles also are compatible with most water filters unlike those with a narrower top.
• Quick Access Cap– a quick access cap is generally pop-up straws or push-pull caps. With just one finger you are able to open the gap and grab a quick sip anywhere. You can do this one-handed leaving your other hand free to hold your luggage or phone. Also, because of the ease of access many people have found that they drink more water than they otherwise would. 
• Screw Cap– while screw caps lack quick access, they too have their benefits. Because of their lack of an internal mechanism, they are less likely to break over time. Also, they protect your drinking surface from exposure to dirt and germs as you travel, meaning you will always get a clean refreshing drink without having to wipe away the dirt of the day first. ‘
• Collapsible– When you have limited space and weight is of the utmost concern, you may want to look for a collapsible water bottle. When empty, they can be rolled up and stowed away until the need to refill arises again. They are perfect for throwing into your carry on without taking up any room and can be used as a reservoir for long day trips or hikes in the back-country. 

Best Travel Water Bottle Recommendations

Camelbak chute mag water bottle.

CamelBak offers a superior solution for those looking for a water bottle. The CamelBak Chute Mag hydration bottle delivers a high flow of water.

It’s a BPA free water bottle that is leak-proof when closed, easy to carry, and packed with convenient features that make it easy to take with you wherever you travel.

This CamelBak Chute Mag sports water bottle is designed with a universal cap with a built-in magnetic handle that keeps the cap stowed while drinking. The universal cap is also compatible with Eddy+ and Hot Cap vessels.

This CamelBak water bottle also features an ergonomic spout that produces a higher flow rate of water without spillage. We’ve also added an easy-to-carry handle. Finally, the CamelBak Chute Mag is made from high-quality materials that are simple to clean.

• Comes in several different sizes
• Ergonomic high flow spout
• Includes a handle designed to attach to a bag or carry easily
• Lifetime Guarantee

Check CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle price at Amazon

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle

Our unique double-wall vacuum insulation protects temperature for hours. Cold drinks stay icy cold and hot drinks stay piping hot so you can stay refreshed for any adventure.

Made with 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel to ensure pure taste and no flavor transfer — and the durable construction stands up to whatever life brings. Our proprietary powder coat means an easy-grip, sweat-free, and extra-durable bottle that you can take anywhere.

Strong yet flexible, the Standard Mouth Flex Cap is the perfect companion for spontaneous campouts, epic road trips , and everything in between. Made with stainless steel pivots and an easy-to-carry strap, this cap has Honeycomb Insulation to help keep your drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot up to 12. 

• Keeps beverages cold up to 24hrs.
• Keeps beverages warm up to 12hrs.
• BPA free and phthalate-free
• Lifetime Warranty
• Pro-Grade Stainless Steel

Check Hydro Flask Standard Mouth Water Bottle price at Amazon

Lifefactory BPA-Free Glass Water Bottle

The 22-ounce glass water bottle with a classic cap is, well, a classic. It is a simple screw cap that just plain works. It is the favorite cap for those that prefer to drink directly from a wide mouth.

The 22-ounce glass water bottle is an everyday favorite that is always ready for adventure. Ideal for juicing and smoothies.

The handle can be clipped to bags and the leak-proof cap seals with a twist. There’s also a 16-ounce and a 12-ounce available and in 20+ colors. 

• Wide mouth access
• Protective silicone sleeve
• Nonslip grip
• Polypropylene screw cap

Check Lifefactory BPA-Free Glass Water Bottle price at Amazon

LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

It gives you peace of mind when abroad. LifeStraw removes bacteria and parasites (including Salmonella, E-coli, Giardia) and chemicals. Reliable and effective, LifeStraw products are the perfect accessory for international travel. 

Municipal water quality is not always optimal and may be contaminated with chemicals, chlorine, or micro-plastics. LifeStraw allows you to drink safely from water fountains at parks, airports, at school or tap water. It’s also great for on-the-go commutes.

With lightweight design and versatility, LifeStraw products are the perfect water filter for hiking and camping. Drink water straight from the nearest stream, puddle, or pond. It’s the fastest way to filter – never pump or wait for chemicals to react again.

• 2 stage activated carbon filter
• Removes 99.9% of waterborne bacteria
• Removes 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites

Check LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle price at Amazon

Nomader BPA Free Collapsible Sports Water Bottle

Made of thick and flexible BPA-free silicone, the reusable Nomader water bottle maintains its sturdy feel for a comfortable drinking experience, yet it conveniently rolls up or squashes down when space is tight.

Attached multi-function strap secures the flask in its folded position and makes it easy to carry when you’re on-the-go.

The patented screw cap design ensures a secure, airtight seal when closed and controlled intake when open.

In between sips, the hinged cap doubles as a hygienic spout cover, preventing germs from getting onto the mouthpiece and into your drink–handy for when traveling, spending time outdoors, at the gym, or for kids at school.

• Free of BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalates, lead and latex
• Loops around your wrist for easy carry
• Attaches to your bag for quick access

Check Nomader BPA Free Collapsible Sports Water Bottle price at Amazon

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• Ultimate Travel Gear Guide
• Best Travel Towels for your Next Trip
• 15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure
• How to Choose the Best GPS for Hiking
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel
• Best Hiking Backpack for your Next Adventure
• The Best Backpacking Tent: How to Choose the Right One
• How to Choose the Best Sleeping Bag

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Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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The 7 best filtered water bottles for travel, according to hydration experts

UPDATE: Aug. 3, 2023, 5:00 AM EDT This guide has been updated with new information from experts as well as our latest product recommendations.

From road trips and backcountry camping to jet-setting across the globe, there are a few things that every traveler should have — and that includes access to clean water.

Buying overpriced water bottles is an option, of course, but who wants to throw away that kind of money and contribute to plastic waste in this day and age? And sure, you could just drink from the tap, but in many places that means risking foul, weird-tasting water — or worse, violent stomach illness.

But there’s a much better solution: reusable water bottles that come with their own built-in filtration system so you can have cool, clean sips wherever your travels take you. In fact, the best filter water bottles are a must-have when traveling to destinations that lack plentiful clean water, whether that's a far-away country or a wilderness camping trip in the next county over.

Once you have a filter water bottle for travel, you might even start using it for everyday use at home or in the office. Even when traveling within the United States, you can use these travel water bottles in hotels, as they make water taste extra-clean and fresh.

But how do these reusable bottles actually work? And what are the best filtered water bottles for travel? We consulted the hydration experts to find out.

What do water bottle filters remove?

Filtered water bottles are capable of removing lots of gross stuff from tap water and freshwater sources (think rivers, lakes, springs, etc.), but they’re not all made the same. As Chip Kilduff , associate professor of civil and environmental engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute points out, it really depends on the types of water filters a manufacturer uses. The most common water filters for travel include activated carbon filters and membrane microfilters; some bottles have both while others only utilize one.

Generally speaking, a quality water filtration bottle should remove several contaminants from the water. According to Dr. Kelvin Fernandez, a physician and healthcare educator at Ace Med Boards , these include particulates like sand and silt, as well as harmful elements like bacteria, viruses, and certain chemicals. The vast majority of contaminants can be removed with a membrane microfilter, but you may also want an activated carbon filter to remove things like chlorine, volatile organic compounds, heavy metals, pesticides and any weird flavors or odors.

Do water filter bottles remove bacteria?

The best filtered water bottle can remove bacteria from tap and freshwater sources, but it all depends on the size of the pores in the filters used.

“The filters are rated by the size of particles that they allow to pass,” says Jason Hitchcock, an expert survivalist and avid outdoorsman with a background in engineering, who is also the founder of the emergency preparedness website Survival Stoic . “For example, a 0.1 micron water filter will allow anything that is smaller than 0.1 microns to pass through the filter.”

For reference, protozoa are typically around 5 to 15 microns in size and bacteria are typically 0.2 to 10 microns in size.

Kilduff goes on to explain that the membrane microfilters commonly used in filter water bottles for travel have a pore size ranging from 0.2 micron to about 10 micron. He confirms that this is sufficient to remove particles, protozoans and bacteria with high efficiency.

Additionally, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has guidance for campers worried about common parasites and bacteria like giardia. If you're searching for the best filter water bottles for hiking and you're worried about giardia, look for filters with labels that include phrases such as:

• Reverse osmosis
• Absolute pore size of 1 micron or smaller (this is not the same as "nominal pore size of 1 micron")
• Tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 53
• Tested and certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 58 for cyst removal

Do water filters remove viruses?

Bacteria removal is definitely more likely than virus removal, Kilduff says, but a water filter could provide some protection if it can filter 0.1 microns or smaller.

“Some of the best filters will filter down to 0.1 microns,” Hitchcock points out from his extensive research and personal experience with the top-rated water filtration bottles on the market today. “[But] viruses can be between 0.0004 and 0.1 microns in size… so some viruses may be allowed to pass.”

That said, most viruses do not survive in drinking water. However, if you are in an area with a heavy virus outbreak, Hitchcock recommends boiling your water to be safe. Learn more in Mashable's guide to water filters .

What should you filter out of tap water?

Just because a water filter can filter out a long list of impurities doesn’t necessarily mean that’s the filtered water bottle that you need for your travels; it really depends on where you’re headed.

“In a city, a basic filter that removes particulates and chlorine might be sufficient,” says Dr. Fernandez. “But for wilderness camping or traveling in certain countries, you might want a more advanced filter that can handle bacteria, viruses and possibly chemicals.”

What's the difference between a water filter and a water purifier?

It’s important to note that water filtration and water purification are not the same, but they do go hand-in-hand to create the cleanest water possible.

Filtration can remove the stuff you can see in water (and lots that you can't), such as sediment, microplastics, bacteria, parasites and more. Purifiers, however, remove impurities — such as viruses — that may be too small to be caught and removed by a filter. Water purifiers also kill other microbes, pathogens and bacteria in water — but they can't get rid of those larger particles like silt and sediment.

“Disinfection — or the inactivation of bacteria, protozoa and viruses — can be done using chemicals like chlorine or iodine, or using UV light (for example, the Steripen from Katadyn),” says Kilduff. “Combined with filtration, this can provide additional protection.”

With all of this information in mind, we wanted to gather the best filtered water bottles for travel, for hiking, and for everyday use. Keep reading to find the best water filter bottles for you.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

The 11 Best Water Bottles, According to Frequent Travelers

With features ranging from built-in filtration to enviable good looks, these reusable water bottles make it easy to ditch single-use plastic water bottles and stay hydrated when you’re on the go..

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The LifeStraw Go Series may look like a basic plastic bottle, but the “straw” inside is a two-stage filter that traps bacteria, parasites, and even microplastics.

Courtesy of EcoVessel, Amazon, and Hydro Flask

No matter where we travel, we never leave home without a reusable water bottle. After extensive, hands-on testing on a wide variety of bottles on the market, we’ve reviewed and found the 11 best for just about any water-related travel need. From time-tested favorites to ones with new technological advances that keep beverages colder longer, these are the best travel water bottles to pack on your next trip.

The Hydro Flask standard mouth is large enough to fit ice cubes, but narrow enough that spills aren’t a concern.

Courtesy of Hydro Flask

Hydro Flask 21 Oz. Standard Mouth Water Bottle

Best overall.

• Buy now: $35, hydroflask.com
• Capacity: 21 ounces
• Weight: 0.75 pounds
• Pros: Keeps drinks cold for hours and lots of fun color options
• Cons: Prone to denting if you tend to drop things often

Bend, Oregon–based Hydro Flask has long been a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts because the brand’s bottles boast excellent insulation, feature a comfortable, flexible plastic swing handle, a seriously leakproof lid, and come in a variety of sizes and bright colors. Its newest colors are inspired by Oregon’s waterfalls (Cascade blue), flora (Trillium pink), and old growth forests (Fir green).

And Hydro Flask’s double-wall insulation will keep your drinks temperature-stabilized for a full day’s hike—24 hours for ice-cold beverages and up to 12 hours for hot ones.

The 21-ounce standard mouth bottle fits plenty of water, while also being lightweight enough to tote around all day. The standard mouth is easy to sip from without drenching yourself if you hit a bump in a car or turbulence on an airplane. For longer, more active days, we’d also recommend the 32-ounce wide-mouth bottle with a straw lid option.

And Hydro Flask’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond giving consumers an option to replace single-use plastic bottles. Through its Parks For All program, Hydro Flask has donated more than $3.7 million to nonprofit organizations supporting public parks in the United States. Plus, it has eliminated single-use plastic packaging in more than 90 percent of its products.

The Yeti Rambler will keep your drink cold for days.

Courtesy of Yeti

Yeti Rambler 36 Oz. Water Bottle

Best insulated water bottle.

• Buy now: $50, yeti.com
• Capacity: 36 ounces
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Pros: Durable and keeps drinks cold for days
• Cons: So big it doesn’t fit in cupholders and can be heavy

The 36-ounce Yeti Rambler looks impressively beefy: Its very appearance promises to preserve your drink’s original temperature no matter what—and the Rambler makes good. Want to go backpacking for a few days and find an ice-studded bottle of lemonade when you return to your car? This is your vessel. We’ve successfully transported ice cream in this bottle (after chilling it with cold water). As with many well-insulated bottles on the market, the Rambler is made with double-walled, food-grade stainless steel. But it’s tougher and hardier than most: You can drop this bottle from a first-floor balcony and find it undented from the fall. And unlike most double-walled bottles, which require hand washing, the Rambler is dishwasher safe.

The extra-wide opening is both a pro and a con: It means the lip won’t collide with your nose, but it does allow for a possible tsunami of drink should you sip in bumpy conditions. Wider (3.8 inches) and heavier (1.5 pounds) than most comparable bottles, the body is too big for most cars’ cupholders. But the simple screw-top lid is particularly comfortable to hold, in part because it accommodates three fingers, instead of one or two as other bottles do, and the rounded plastic doesn’t dig into your skin when the bottle is heavy with water.

If you love the look of Yetis but don’t love how heavy they are, the brand’s Yonder 34-ounce BPA-free plastic bottle weighs less than half of what the Rambler does (just 0.7 pounds). Since it’s not insulated, it won’t keep your water cold long, but it’s sturdy enough to support the weight of an adult woman without even bending. (Yes, we’ve tested this.)

The streamlined EcoVessel Aspen fits in most cupholders.

Courtesy of EcoVessel

EcoVessel Aspen

Best stylish insulated water bottle.

• Buy now: $35, amazon.com
• Capacity: 25 ounces
• Weight: 1.56 pounds
• Pros: A sleek design that also keeps drinks cold (or hot) for hours
• Cons: Despite its streamlined looks, it’s one of the heaviest bottles on this list

The 25-ounce Aspen manages to pack impressive water-cooling properties into a streamlined shape. It slides easily into cupholders and the holsters on most totes and backpacks . But this bottle’s comparatively thin walls keep drinks cool (or hot, as you prefer) for an astonishingly long time: EcoVessel claims cold water and drinks will stay cold for 100 hours, making the EcoVessel Aspen one of the best water bottles for hot climates. We haven’t fully tested that boast but can confirm that this bottle kept water icy for a full day, even in roastingly hot weather.

Though it still features an easy-to-sip-from opening, the updated version of the Aspen bottle released in 2022 features a wider mouth so it’s easier to fit ice cubes now. Once inside, they last a long time, thanks to a three-layer construction that sandwiches copper between two layers of stainless steel. The new version also comes with a hidden handle that pops up from the lid when you need it and folds down when you don’t. It’s recyclable but also durable (with a 100-year warranty!), so you’re not likely to deal with this bottle’s end-of-life issues. Losing it is more likely—leaving some lucky finder to enjoy its sleek good looks.

The flat design of memobottles lets them slip into bags—or airplane seatback pockets—where bulky round bottles can’t.

Courtesy of Amazon

A5 memobottle

Best flat water bottle.

• Buy now: $39, amazon.com
• Weight: 0.37 pounds
• Pros: Space-saving and sleek design
• Cons: Doesn’t stand up easily on its own

Melbourne-based memobottle pulls design inspiration for its flat water bottles from Australian paper sizes including the A7 (six ounces), A6 (12 ounces), and A5 (25 ounces). Like paper, these bottles lie flat inside your bag or in an airplane seatback pocket. Tiana Attride, AFAR’s social media editor, is a fan of this design for practical and aesthetic reasons. “They’re stylish and fit into bags much more easily than the big, clunky water bottles you usually see,” she says.

All memobottle sizes are available in a lightweight BPA-free plastic or a sturdier stainless steel design. For travelers who tend to down a lot of water, opt for the 25-ounce plastic A5 to maximize your hydration without carrying a lot of weight. A certified B Corp, memobottle donates five months of safe drinking water access for every bottle sold via a partnership with Water.org. So far, it’s provided 33.8 million days of safe water.

If you plan on drinking more than just water, the TKWide has interchangeable lids for a variety of drinks.

Courtesy of Klean Kanteen

Klean Kanteen TKWide

Best water bottle with interchangeable lids.

• Buy now: $33, kleankanteen.com
• Capacity: 16 ounces
• Weight: 0.86 pounds
• Pros: Insulated and offers five different interchangeable lids
• Cons: Stainless steel can hold on to flavors, so it can be hard to switch between coffee and water without lingering odors.

Sure, you can fill this 16-ounce bottle with water, and we do. But its five interchangeable lids make the TKWide bottle from Klean Kanteen ready for anything. We like the Café Cap , which features a small opening perfect for sipping coffee that twists closed, saving you and your bag from spills. It also has a metal swing handle that makes it easy to tote along on hikes but snaps to the side when you don’t need it. The TKWide Straw Cap comes with a 10-millimeter, stainless steel–and-silicone straw that accommodates thicker beverages, like smoothies or frozen margaritas.

The BPA-free, food-grade stainless steel bottle is insulated, keeping contents hot for up to 14 hours or iced up to 47 hours. It’s also treated with Klean Kanteen’s proprietary, chip-resistant Klean Coat finish and backed the brand’s lifetime “Strong as Steel” guarantee.

In addition to being a B Corp, Klean Kanteen announced in April 2020 that it is 100 percent carbon neutral in its manufacturing and delivery of products as well as Climate Neutral Certified .

The Vapur Anti-Bottle is a space-saving option for those who travel light.

Vapur 0.7L Wide Mouth Anti-Bottle

Best collapsible water bottle.

• Buy now: $10, amazon.com
• Capacity: 23 ounces
• Weight: 0.125 pounds
• Pros: This collapsible bottle is dishwasher safe, ultra-lightweight, and the most affordable option on this list.
• Cons: Can be clumsy to drink out of

The Vapur Anti-Bottle is one of the best travel water bottles for planes and an efficiency expert’s dream . When full, the water pouch holds nearly a liter of liquid, but empty, it weighs a mere 2 ounces and occupies about as much space as a wallet. The cap has a built-in carabiner for latch-and-go ease, and the body’s three-ply, BPA-free plastic is pliable enough to fold up into the clip. But don’t let the flexibility fool you—this pouch is durable enough to resist leaks, regardless of how many times it’s been rolled, twisted, or shoved in a full backpack. The Anti-Bottle can also stand on its own when full (or half full, or anything but empty, really).

Refills are a breeze with a hard plastic wide mouth at the cap’s base, and a much narrower mouthpiece protected by a flip top makes for spill-free sipping. Active adventurers will appreciate the Drinklink tube accessory that converts the Anti-Bottle into a hands-free hydration reservoir. This collapsible bottle alternative is dishwasher safe, so there’s no need to buy a special cleaning tool for the interior. It’s also freezable, meaning it can serve as an ice pack if necessary.

The LifeStraw Go Series includes a liter size of the BPA-free plastic bottle as well as an insulated stainless steel version.

Courtesy of LifeStraw

LifeStraw Go Series 22 Oz. Water Filter Bottle

Best filtered water bottle.

• Buy now: $45, rei.com
• Capacity: 22 ounces
• Weight: 0.54 pounds
• Pros: This filter bottle is made with BPA-free plastic and is dishwasher safe (once filter is removed)
• Cons: The filter can be hard to drink from, and it displaces liquid, so the bottle holds only 15 ounces of water at a time.

The 22-ounce LifeStraw Go Series is one of the best water bottles with a filter. It looks like a basic plastic bottle with screw-top lid, but the “straw” inside is a two-stage filter. Its hollow-fiber membrane traps bacteria, parasites, and even microplastics. Then, an activated carbon capsule neutralizes unpleasant flavors and odors. (There’s also an insulated stainless steel version of this bottle, if you want to keep your water chilled.)

Yes, you have to suck a bit harder on this mouthpiece than you would from an unfiltered straw. But you’ll hardly grow faint: The hollow-fiber technology delivers a speedier flow than most other filters.

Replacement cartridges cost $25, and since one filter treats 4,000 liters, that’s generally less than the cost of buying a similar amount of bottled water. The large, bottle-length filter also displaces a significant amount of liquid, so the 22-ounce capacity is misleading. With the filter inside, the Go holds more like 15 ounces.

The trade-off is convenience. The Go is super handy for city and country travel—especially in places where the drinking water isn’t always trustworthy. It fits tidily into bottle pockets on backpacks and in cars’ cupholders, and the BPA-free plastic is thicker and tougher than most: LifeStraw builds each bottle for a long life of service. Promoting reusable plastics is just one part of the company’s sustainability program: LifeStraw also provides clean drinking water to needy communities. With each Go purchase, the company provides one child with a year’s worth of water.

The silicone BeFree bottle from Katadyn is a collapsible filter bottle.

Courtesy of Katadyn

Katadyn BeFree

Best lightweight filtered water bottle.

• Capacity: 33.8 ounces
• Weight: 0.14 pounds
• Pros: This filter bottle takes up barely any space and weighs just over two ounces, making it great for backcountry adventures.
• Cons: The filter isn’t made with carbon, so it doesn’t remove funky flavors, plus the bottle can be clumsy to hold.

When empty, this collapsible water bottle packs down to the size of an apple, yet it delivers huge benefits: Its drinking spout sits on top of a (replaceable) filter that effectively traps protozoa and other disease-causing organisms. That means you can fill the silicone flask from any suspicious source and immediately enjoy clean water wherever you are. The hollow-fiber filter delivers a pleasingly fast flow that’s genuinely thirst-quenching during exercise. Whereas some filters (including the LifeStraw, above) limit the flow to smaller sips, the BeFree releases a big, mouth-filling gulp—which we appreciated on 14,000-foot Colorado peaks where exertion and altitude left us too breathless to work hard for small returns on water.

We’ve used the one-liter BeFree to drink from roadside streams, backcountry lakes, hillside springs, and airport bathrooms—and can report no resulting ill effects. And you can count on a cartridge to last for several trips: Each one filters 1,000 liters (says Katadyn) and replacements cost $27 .

But the BeFree doesn’t filter out funky flavors. It’s designed to be ultra-light and compact, so there’s no carbon element to neutralize foul tastes or smells. The bottle’s squishy design has advantages (packability) and disadvantages (it can be clumsy to hold). Instead, the filter-as-you-sip system is perfect for trail running, backcountry trekking, long-haul flights (no need to trust the airplane’s grimy water tank!), and any trip where you’ll need plenty of water but don’t want to be burdened by surplus water weight.

This high-tech water bottle is self-cleaning.

Courtesy of Larq

Larq Bottle PureVis

Best self-purifying water bottle.

• Buy now: $99, livelarq.com
• Capacity: 17 ounces
• Weight: 0.84 pounds
• Pros: This self-purifying bottle also offers double-wall vacuum insulation and is one of the most stylish ones out there.
• Cons: Expensive

The 17-ounce Larq Bottle is expensive, but your money buys you a lot—including a germ-free water bottle. It’s not always easy to remember to wash your water bottle while traveling, but the Larq does it for you. The bottle’s cap is fitted with an ultraviolet light that disrupts the DNA in bacteria and viruses, rendering them unable to reproduce (which is how they cause diseases). And not only does the UV light kill waterborne microorganisms, but it also does so regularly, by automatically firing the UV beam every two hours to kill germs that may have been introduced from your mouth or a questionable water source. Unlike UV pens, the Larq doesn’t use mercury, which causes environmental problems when it’s tossed into landfills. Plus, the Larq’s UV bulb has more stamina, lasting 40 times longer than mercury-based technology (according to Larq).

The bottle also uses a rechargeable lithium polymer battery that lasts one month on a single charge. Pressing the top of the cap activates the light: Tap once for normal purification, or twice for “adventure mode,” which is useful when you suspect your water may be loaded with harmful microorganisms.

Even if you never refill it with untreated water, the Larq is an attractive bottle that uses double-walled stainless steel construction to keep beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for 12. And if it also self-cleans between proper washes? That’s priceless.

The Purist Collective Maker looks like a stainless steel bottle but is actually lined with glass.

Courtesy of Purist Collective

Purist Collective Maker Mug

Best glass water bottle.

• Buy now: $38, rei.com
• Capacity: 10 ounces
• Weight: 0.58 pounds
• Pros: This lightweight glass water bottle looks and insulates like a stainless steel one
• Cons: This bottle is not dishwasher safe

Glass bottles are great at repelling flavors and odors, which makes them particularly versatile: You can switch among coffee, water, and wine without any whiff of the previous beverage infiltrating the next. And unlike some plastics and metals, glass doesn’t leach chemicals into your drink. But glass is heavy. Most glass water bottles (like the silicone-wrapped ones made by Lifefactory ) might be great for home but feel too burdensome for travel.

Purist Collective solves this problem by lining its high-quality, surgical-grade stainless steel bottles with an ultra-thin layer of nonporous glass. We filled the 10-ounce Maker with coffee and cream in the morning, then refilled it with water—and discerned no java aftertaste. The glass veneer is so thin that the Purist weighs just over half a pound. That’s no more than other double-walled metal bottles, so it’s easy to tote around all day.

The 10-ounce Maker comes with a leakproof scope top that rotates to let you adjust the flow and sip from anywhere around the top. The larger 18-ounce Mover and the 32-ounce Founder come with basic screw-top caps with carrying loops. Additional caps can be purchased, including a flip-top one for more active adventures.

Even better than the clean, modernist design is the give-back program: Purist Collective contributes financially to a network of social and environmental nonprofits, like Oregon’s p:ear , which assists homeless youth through art education and job training. So this good-looking bottle does good, too.

The Thermos Funtainer opens with a push of a button for easy drinking.

Courtesy of Thermos

Thermos 16 Oz. Funtainer Water Bottle

Best water bottle for all ages.

• Buy now: $20, thermos.com
• Weight: 0.6 pounds
• Pros: Push-button lid allows for one-handed drinking
• Cons: Not designed for hot liquids

This vacuum-insulated stainless steel water bottle keeps drinks cold for up to 12 hours and is durable enough to withstand any matter of drops or dings. Though it’s technically part of Thermos’ Funtainer kids collection , it doesn’t mean adults can’t use this water bottle, too. In fact, AFAR’s executive editor Billie Cohen says she carries one around all the time. “It’s small, but that’s enough for city walks or just my usual day-to-day. Those big bottles get heavy, so a small one is a nice change,” she says.

Beyond its fun-size packaging, Cohen says she likes that the bottle opens with a push of a button so you only need one hand to drink. “And a must for me is that the spout is totally covered so that it stays clean when I inevitably drop it on the airplane floor,” Cohen says.

This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated on March 28, 2024, to reflect current information.

Table of contents

10 Best Water Bottles of 2024

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

Whether you’re picking up groceries on a Sunday afternoon or heading into a miles-long carry on a high-alpine route, a quality water bottle makes every adventure easier. If you’re still sipping from that banged up old bottle you’ve had for a decade, it’s time for an upgrade.

Our team tested more than 50 different water bottles over the last 4 years on trail and in town, putting the top performers through the wringer. Looking at important factors like versatility, insulation, weight, and durability, we analyzed everything from heavy duty options for everyday use to large-capacity soft bottles perfect for backpacking. This guide will help you find the best water bottle for your car cupholder – or your backpack water holster.

But if a water bottle just won’t cut it, check out high capacity and more portable options with our favorite hydration packs  or  hydration bladders . For those planning a multi-day backpacking adventure, you’ll also need a  high-quality water filter  on hand to purify your H20 on the go.

Quick Picks for Water Bottles

Check out this quick list of the best hiking shoes, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.

Best water bottle overall:  Hydro Flask Wide Mouth ($50)  /  Hydro Flask Standard Mouth ($40)

Most durable insulated water bottle:   YETI Rambler ($40)

Best non-insulated budget bottle for everyday use Nalgene Wide Mouth ($16)

Best glass water bottle with at an affordable price:   Yomious Glass ($19)

Best collapsible water bottle for backpacking & travel:   HydraPak Flux ($26)

Best budget insulated water bottle:  GSI MicroLite 720 ($30)

Ergonomic water bottle that helps keep track of daily hydration:  Thermos Intak ($20)

Ultralight, packable & affordable soft bottle:  Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle ($28)

Best water bottle for ultralight backpacking:  Glaceau Smartwater ($11 6-pack)

Insulated water bottle that comes with accessories:  Takeya Actives Insulated ($40)

Best filter bottle:  Lifestraw Go Series ($45)

Unique water bottle with smart collapsible design:  Que Collapsible ($25)

Ultralight & packable water storage for backpacking:  Platypus Platy Bottle ($19)

The Clever Hiker team has been sipping, refilling, and testing many new water bottles against our go-to’s, and this list has seen some significant changes.

• We welcome the ultra-durable and colorful Hydroflask Wide Mouth Bottle and Standard Mouth Hydro Flask  to the number one and two spots. Their excellent style, insulation, and versatility makes them a reliable and long-lasting option for town or trail.
• The YETI Rambler rounds out our top three as the GOAT of insulation – if you’re looking for a coffee mug (or thermos) that will keep temperature all day long, this is the one.
• The classic and inimitable  Nalgene Wide Mouth  also leads this list as an affordable and lightweight option.
• We added the stylish and ergonomic Yomious Glass Bottle  as a stellar option for reducing your plastic usage while commuting to the work, gym, or walking the dog.
• The soft and rollable Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle makes the cut as a compact and collapsible option that’s ultralight for backpacking but burly enough for the dishwasher.

• Hydro Flask Wide Mouth

Best water bottle overall

Weight: 15.2 oz.

Insulated: Yes

• Excellent insulation
• Many color choices
• Lots of accessory options
• Easy to add ice/supplements
• Dishwasher safe
• Heavy for backpacking
• Many wide mouth bottles don’t fit in cup holders

Hydro Flask is known for top-notch insulation, eye-catching color, and excellent accessories, and the Wide Mouth Bottle  is a shining example of their fun design aesthetic and versatility. We love that we can adapt this bottle to any need by changing the lid or adding an accessory – the  Straw Lid  for convenience, the  Flex Sip Lid  for commuting, the standard  Flex Cap  for maximizing insulation, and the  Bottle Sling for hands-free carrying. With over a dozen colors and designs to choose from – and new colorways every year – this bottle is a great fit for anyone. Hydro Flask also makes these in a Lightweight Trail Series which are light enough to carry on short backpacking trips if you want the luxury of hot drinks in the backcountry or when the almost 1-lb weight of the regular wide mouth feels a bit cumbersome.

• Hydro Flask Standard Mouth

Best water bottle overall for style, insulation & accessory options

Weight: 12.8 oz.

• Many color choices,
• Fits in standard cup holders,
• Harder to hand wash
• More difficult to add ice/supplements than wide mouth

If narrow mouth bottles are more your style, Hydro Flask has you covered. The  Standard Mouth Hydro Flask  doesn’t have as many lid options as the Wide Mouth, but it still comes in all the fun colors and has the same great insulation. While we prefer the Wide Mouth Bottles for a few reasons (easier to clean, more lid options, easier to add ice), the Standard Mouth Bottles have two distinct advantages. They fit in standard cup holders and in side pockets on  daypacks , and they’re easier to drink from while on the move. If mobile drinking is a must-have, the Standard Mouth is a great option. Be sure to check out all the  other sizes and colors  the Standard Mouth Bottles come in.

YETI Rambler Vacuum

Most durable insulated water bottle

Weight: 1 lb. 8.5 oz.

• Lots of accessory options,
• Dishwasher safe,

If you’re looking for top-of-the-line quality and unmatched insulation power, the  YETI Rambler  is tough to beat. We’ve been using the Rambler line of bottles for our to-go coffee since pretty much the day they came out. Those with a more mellow taste will also appreciate the timeless color options offered by YETI over the brights from Hydro Flask. The Rambler bottles are the most durable water bottles we’ve ever used, and the plethora of accessories you can pair with them (our favorites are the  Cup Cap  and the  Straw Cap ) are just as reliable. The YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottles are offered in a  variety of sizes and styles  to suit any need.

• Nalgene Wide Mouth

Best non-insultated budget water bottle for eveyday use

Weight: 6.25 oz.

Insulated: No

• Many color/pattern choices
• Measurement lines
• Lightweight

Simple and classic, the  Nalgene Wide Mouth  is pretty much synonymous with the words “water bottle.” We own 10 or so of these in different colors and patterns, adorned in stickers from our favorite national parks and breweries. We take them backpacking, we take them grocery shopping, we take them just about everywhere. One of our favorite things about Nalgenes is that they come in so  many different colors and patterns . This no-frills staple is small in price, but big on durability and versatility. Nalgenes are also available in  Narrow Mouth , which is easier to drink from while on the move. If you prefer slender water bottles that fit in small cup holders and daypacks, check out the  Nalgene On The Fly .

Yomious Glass Bottle

Best glass water bottle at an affordable price

Weight: 14.7 oz.

• No plastic touches water
• Ergonomic size/shape
• Dishwasher safe (except for lid)
• Lid must be hand-washed

The  Yomious Glass Bottle  is a great value with an excellent blend of style and durability. A silicone sleeve covers most of the bottle for protection if it’s dropped, but it leaves a fashionable peek of glass at the top. The bamboo lid adds another touch of style, and it’s also designed with a stainless steel insert to ensure no plastic touches your water – meaning you only taste water, not chemicals. The borosilicate glass can handle extreme cold or hot temperatures, making this a great choice for everyday water drinking and morning commute coffee.

• HydraPak Flux

Best collapsible water bottle for backpacking & travel

Weight: 3.6 oz.

• Compatible with Katadyn BeFree Water Filter
• Holds on to flavors
• Not as durable as rigid bottles (but very good for a soft bottle)

We often carry soft bottles as backup water storage on backpacking trips, but we never imagined we’d enjoy using one on a daily basis. Enter the  HydraPak Flux . This bottle rolls up super small, then springs to life and holds its shape when unfolded. Many soft bottles are awkward to drink from because they’re floppy. The Flux, however, feels more similar to drinking from a rigid bottle. The Flux is made from silicon, so it can hold onto flavors. If you like using  hydration mixes , you’ll be tasting it for a while (ours currently tastes like oranges). But the low weight and compact design of the Flux make it great for any occasion. The Hydrapak Seeker is very similar to the Flux, and comes in  2L ,  3L , and  4L  sizes.

GSI MicroLite 720 Vacuum

Best budget insulated water bottle

Weight: 11 oz.

• Affordable for an insulated bottle
• Fits in cup holders
• Easy to drink from spout
• Fewer color & accessory options than others
• No carry handle/loop

All these fancy insulated bottles can be pretty expensive nowadays, but GSI knows that good quality doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg. The  GSI MicroLite 720 Bottle  may not come in as many fun colors, but it insulates just as well as most of the competition. With only two lid options, the  Flip Lid  for coffee sippin’ and the  Twist Lid  for water gulpin’, the MicroLite bottles are simple, but effective. If you’re looking for a different size, take a look at the full line of  GSI MicroLite Bottles .

• Thermos Intak

Ergonomic water bottle that helps keep track of daily hydration

Weight: 6.5 oz.

• Intake meter helps track daily hydration
• Fits in cup holders,
• Fewer color options & accessories

Life can get hectic sometimes, and mundane tasks like remembering to drink two liters of water every day can fall by the wayside. The  Thermos Intak  takes the guesswork out of staying hydrated with a nifty rotating intake meter that tracks how much water you’ve had to drink for the day (as long as you remember to turn it). We love the ergonomic shape and the drinking spout delivers bevvies with precision. The Intak is awesome for busy folks who just need a bottle that provides hydration on the cheap.

• Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle

Ultralight, packable & affordable soft bottle

Weight: 1.6 oz. (1L)

• Ultralight for backpacking
• Not as durable as rigid bottles
• Can be awkward to drink from (floppy)

We’ve used the  Platy Bottle  from Platypus for years to carry extra water while backpacking, and the  Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle  is another winner. Going climbing? Clip it to your harness. Going hiking? Clip it to your backpack. Taking the dog for a walk? Clip it to your belt loop. Adding a carabiner makes pretty much any piece of gear better. Floppy bottles aren’t our first choice for everyday use around the house or office, but the Softbottle is quite convenient for life on the go. Platypus also offers the  SoftBottle  without the carabiner and locking top if you want to save a few bucks.

• Glaceau Smartwater

Best water bottle for ultralight backpacking

Price: Typically $2 / bottle at the grocery store

Weight: 1.3 oz.

• Ultralight for backpacking,
• Compatible with Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
• Fits in cup holders/backpack side pockets
• Shorter lifespan than most other bottles (but will still last a long time if treated with care)

Yes for real, we’re recommending a technically single-use plastic bottle.  Smartwater Bottles  are perfect for backpacking because they’re ultralight, they come in full liter capacity, they’re surprisingly durable, and the slender shape fits well in the side pockets of  backpacking packs . One of  our favorite water filters , the  Sawyer Squeeze , also screws directly onto the mouth. If you’re careful with your bottle – make sure to clean it well and keep it out of direct sun – a single one can be reused again and again.

• Takeya Actives Insulated

Insulated water bottle taht comes with accessories

Weight: 1 lb.

• Many color options
• Accessories included (bottle boot, chug cap)
• Lid is slightly less durable than others

When you pay $40 for an insulated bottle, then $15 or so for a few lid options, then another $8 for a non-slip boot, a simple purchase can turn into your entire month’s lunch money. If you like to have your bottle and accessorize it too, the  Takeya Actives Insulated  is a great value option. It comes standard with a silicone bottle boot and a leakproof chug cap, which in total would run you about $60 from some other brands on our list. While we feel the quality of the lid isn’t quite as high as the competition, the Takeya Actives is good for those looking for big style on a small budget. The Actives Bottle is available in many different colors, sizes, and lid options.

LifeStraw Go SERIES

Best filter bottle

Weight: 7.9 oz.

• Convenient carry clip
• Replaceable filter
• Light enough for backpacking
• Hard to tell when the filter is no longer effective
• Can’t be used with hydration mixes

The  Lifestraw Go Series  is handy for those who prefer to filter tap water when out and about or for short backpacking trips. We like that it’s simple to use and that the filter cartridge is replaceable, but we’re not so keen on the fact that it’s pretty much impossible to tell when the activated carbon part of the filter is spent. That said, the Go Filter works well in a pinch and the bottle itself is high-quality. The 22 oz. is the most popular option, but a  1 L bottle  is also available. There’s also a stainless insulated  Go Bottle  for those who want to keep beverages hot or cold.

• Que Collapsible

Unique water bottle with smart collapsible design

Weight: 6 oz.

• Convenient for travel (especially airline)
• Fun & unique look
• Slight silicone aftertaste for the first few uses
• A little unstable standing on its own

The  Que Collapsible Bottle  is a unique container that comes in a plethora of fun colors and collapses down to about the size of a soda can. Its compact size makes it perfect for stashing in a carry-on bag during travel. We love the funky look, but it would be nice if the Que Bottle could stand upright on its own more reliably (check out their  video on getting a proper seal  for tips). It’s not our first choice for everyday drinkage, but it works great as an in-flight water bottle or to keep in your commuter bag for those days when you accidentally leave the daily drinker at home.

• Platypus Platy Bottle

Ultralight & packable water storage for backpacking

• Durable for a soft bottle
• Large capacity for long water carries/storage
• Awkward for everyday use (floppy)
• Not as easy to clean as some others

The  Platypus Platy Bottle  isn’t necessarily a water bottle, per se, but it’s been our go-to for carrying water on backpacking trips for many years. We pack the Platy along anytime we expect to hit a long, dry stretch in the backcountry. It came in very handy on our  PCT  and  CDT  thru-hikes because it weighs next to nothing, takes up virtually no space in a backpack, costs very little, and the  Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter  can thread right onto the top. The Platy Bottle is a staple item that should be in every backpacker’s gear closet.

What’s Most Important to You in a Water Bottle?

We’re willing to spend a bit more for high-quality water bottles because the added convenience and durability are worth the extra cost for us. But we recommend quality options for eery budget in our top picks below.

Best budget water bottles

• Yomious Glass

Best value water bottles

• GSI MicroLite 720

Best high-end water bottles

• YETI Rambler

VERSATILITY

We tend to gravitate toward insulated bottles with a wide selection of colors and interchangeable lids. With just a couple of accessories, some bottles can transition from your morning coffee vessel, to your workout hydration bottle, to your evening beer tumbler.

Best water bottle accessories

• Hydro Flask Wide Mouth  (the  Flex Sip Lid  is great for coffee)
• Hydro Flask Standard Mouth  (the  Sports Cap  makes it a workout bottle)
• YETI Rambler  (the included  Chug Cap  is great for staying hydrated, or get the  Cup Cap  to share a drink)

Best water bottle straw lids

• Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Straw Lid
• YETI Rambler Straw Cap

INSULATED VS. NON-INSULATED

Insulated bottles are great when you want to bring along coffee or ice water for your commute, but they’re typically much heavier than non-insulated bottles. Non-insulated bottles are more ideal for backpacking because they’re simple and keep weight to a minimum.

Best insulated water bottles

Best lightweight insulated water bottles

• Hydro Flask Lightweight Series

Best non-insulated water bottles

WEIGHT & PACKABILITY

Weight and packability are important factors to consider if you’ll be using your water bottle for backpacking or travel. Heavier bottles tend to be more durable, but they’re also more cumbersome to lug around.

Best lightweight water bottles for backpacking

Best collapsible water bottles for travel

Best heavy-duty water bottles

• Klean Kanteen TKWide Insulated

Determine what you’ll use your bottle for most to help you decide what size you’ll need. For backpacking, lightweight 1L (32 oz.) bottles are a common choice. For commuting, smaller bottles tha are insulated and leakproof are best. For long days around town or in the frontcountry, you may want a higher volume insulated bottle so you aren’t constantly looking for somewhere to fill up.

Best water bottles for everyday use & commutes

Best water bottles for backpacking

Best water bottles for long days outside

• Hydro Flask 64 oz.
• YETI Rambler Gallon Jug
• YETI Rambler Half Gallon Jug

ALTERNATIVES TO PLASTIC

When making the choice to reduce plastic consumption, buying a reusable water bottle is often the first step people take. All the bottles we recommend (okay, maybe not  Smartwater ) will help you be more eco-friendly, but some companies are going above and beyond when it comes to protecting the planet.

Most eco-friendly water bottles

• Klean Kanteen TKWide Insulated  (also check out their  reusable straws )
• Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel
• Lifefactory Glass

A good water bottle can set you back a pretty penny, so finding one that can withstand years of adventuring with you is important. To get the most life out of your bottle, look for one that’s made of stainless steel, doesn’t flex, and doesn’t have a lot of seams.

Most durable water bottles

NARROW MOUTH VS. WIDE MOUTH

Wide-mouth bottles are easier to add ice or flavoring to and they’re much easier to clean by hand. That said, we still haven’t mastered the art of taking a big gulp from a wide-mouth bottle while on the move without dribbling all over our shirts. Wide-mouth bottles are also less likely to fit into smaller cup holders.

Best wide mouth water bottles

Narrow mouth bottles are easier to drink from while you’re on the move . They’re also more likely to fit in the cup holder of your car or the side pockets of smaller backpacks. Narrow mouth bottles are harder to clean by hand, though, and ice doesn’t fit through the opening as easily.

Best narrow mouth water bottles

• Nalgene Narrow Mouth

SMARTWATEr Bottles are Light, inexpensive & perfect for backcountry trips

KLEAN KANTEEN MAKES REUSABLE STAINLESS STEEL STRAWS THAT’RE SUPER FUN & GOOD FOR THE PLANET

The GSI MicroLite 720 is excellent for commuting & day trips

SMARTWATER BOTTLES can BE REUSED FOR HUNDREDS OF MILES

KLEAN KANTEEN & LIFEFACTORY GO ABOVE & BEYOND WITH THEIR COMMITMENTS TO SUSTAINABILITY

THE UNINSULATED NALGENE WIDE MOUTH & THE INSULATED YETI RAMBLER ARE BOTH VERY DURABLE

Critical Water Bottle Considerations

How to get the most out of insulated bottles.

Insulated bottle technology is similar across the board, so these tips should help you keep your hots hot and your colds cold for longer.

Pre-chill your bottle

Putting some ice or cold water in your bottle before adding your cold beverage of choice will pre-chill the walls and air inside to maximize the cold-keeping properties.

Pre-warm your bottle

Running hot tap water inside your bottle before filling it with your favorite hot drink will help keep the cold metal interior walls from sapping warmth from liquids.

Less air is better

To maximize hot or cold insulation, it’s best to get your bottle as full as possible. Hot or cold outside air can fill the dead space inside your bottle and affect the temperature of your drink.

Most of the water bottles on our list are dishwasher safe, but hand-washing will improve the lifespan of your bottle. We recommend picking up the  Hydro Flask Bottle Brush  and some  Hydrapak Bottle Bright Cleaning Tablets  to make your life easier. Otherwise, mixing hot water, a drop of dish soap, and a pinch or two of coarse salt into your bottle and then giving it a good shake usually does the trick.

Honorable Mentions

The following water bottles didn’t make our final list, but they’re very popular and they’ve still got a lot of good things going for them. You never know, one of these bottles might be your perfect fit:

Purifyou Premium Glass Water Bottle – High quality glass water bottle with very little plastic. Ultimately we prefer the  Yomious Glass Bottle because it’s more affordable and it’s not as heavy, but this is a hefty and impressive alternative.

Grayl GeoPress – Water bottle that can purify water (takes out viruses, protozoa, bacteria). This bottle is great for backcountry travel in really remote areas with questionable water. But it’s expensive, takes quite a bit of energy to press, and the filter cartridge doesn’t last very long – which is why we resorted back to a separate water filter plus water bottle option.

Simple Modern Insulated – A good value insulated bottle that comes with two lid options. The bottle itself is similar to the  Hydro Flask Wide Mouth , but the lids aren’t as high quality, nor are they leakproof.

Klean Kanteen TKWide Insulated Bottle – Another well-designed insulated bottle with excellent color and accessory options. It’s exceptionally durable and the company uses environmentally friendly practices, but these bottles are not in most retail stores.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

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14 Best Water Bottles For Every Trip

Whether you’re looking for insulation, portability, or fun features, we’ve rounded up the best travel water bottles for your trip—even if it’s just to the store.

We might not like to think about it, but we’re no different than plants and animals in some respects, especially when it comes to drinking enough water. Over our years of travel, we've learned that staying hydrated can be crucial to a successful day of exploring. Dealing with headaches and other ailments because you’ve forgotten to sip along the way is not how we like to start a trip.

That’s why we have gotten our hands on hundreds of water bottles, quenchers, coffee mugs, flasks, whiskey tumblers, etc., over the years. We’ve reviewed dozens of options in the search for the best water bottle, but we’re narrowing it down to our favorites to help you cut through the noise.

That’s because we know that finding the best water bottle can be intimidating—and expensive. No one wants to go through the effort of buying each one just to be disappointed. Lucky for you, dear reader, we’ve already done it! We’ve tested how they fit in backpacks, how it feels to drink from different spouts and lids, whether they’re leakproof enough to trust in an internal bottle pocket next to your computer, and so on. If you’re more of a visual person, you can even check out our videos to see how they compare.

So, what should you think about when looking for the best water bottle?

Weight Every ounce matters when carrying a travel backpack through the airport and to your hotel or a hiking backpack through the Smoky Mountains. So, while you may want an uber-insulated bottle because you want your drink to be icy cold all day, it could weigh you down. Some brands do an awesome job of packing a lot of insulation into a package that feels feather-light, while other bottles forgo insulation altogether in the name of portability.

Portability The best water bottle is only right for you if it fits into the bottle pocket of your travel daypack , can slide alongside your computer in your laptop backpack , or has a comfortable handle so you can carry it anywhere. If a bottle gives a comfortable sipping experience but is so clunky that it can only live on your desk, it won’t be the right travel water bottle for your next trip.

Insulation Do you like drinking lukewarm water or cold coffee? You do? OK, then you can skip to the next section. For the rest of us, how long a travel water bottle or tumbler can keep drinks hot or cold matters. If you’ll be out in the midday sun for hours with no way to refill your bottle, you may want one that will keep your beverages iced for over eight hours. However, that may matter less if you’ll be near refrigerated refill stations.

Now, what type of bottle should you get?

Do you want to flip up a top or twist off a cap? Do you prefer to sip through a straw, or do you like to sip? Does your car or daypack have smaller holders your new favorite bottle needs to fit into? We have options to suit nearly any need and taste, whether you want to switch from coffee to water midmorning or never plan to have anything but H20 inside.

We’ve done the homework to create this list of travel water bottles that will quench your thirst in any situation or location. Our team has tested almost all the bottles on this list, with full written or video reviews you can turn to for more details.

So grab a beverage, and let’s dive in. Cheers!

• Owala FreeSip Water Bottle
• Hydro Flask 18 oz Standard Mouth Water Bottle
• Stanley AeroLight Transit Bottle (20 oz)
• YETI Yonder 20 oz Water Bottle
• Purist Collective Mover 18oz Bottle
• Vapur Eclipse Water Bottle
• Klean Kanteen Insulated TKWide 16 oz
• Zojirushi Cool Bottle (SD-CS50)
• memobottle A6 (with Silicone Sleeve)
• EcoVessel The ASPEN Insulated Water & Wine Bottle
• Chilly's Series 2 Water Bottle
• Nalgene Wide-Mouth Water Bottle 32oz
• CamelBak Chute Mag 1L Bottle
• GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier

You don’t have to choose between sipping through a straw or taking a big gulp with the FreeSip Water Bottle. That’s because it has a unique spout with two openings: one that connects to a straw and one open to the bottle. There’s a bit of a weird sensation for the latter since liquid pours out of both openings, but we got used to it quickly. It’s the best water bottle if you like the convenience of switching between both options as we do, almost like having two bottles in one. Plus, it saves us from accidentally dribbling if we tip the bottle up too high while still providing plenty of hydration when we’re really thirsty. It’s a standard width and fits in all but the tightest of cup holders, and it has twin indentations running up each side to make it uber-comfortable to hold. We’ve had no issues with it leaking inside of a backpack because it locks closed. It also has a handle that flips in front of the button to open it so it can’t accidentally get pressed and open, which doubles as a carry handle as you go about your day. Since it’s tucked down when not in use, it gives the bottle a sleeker look and increases packability.

There are tons of colors and styles to choose from, whether you want a monochrome look to fly under the radar or you dig bright color combinations to show your personality. Heck, there are even themed bottles that subtly show your affinity for your favorite character (Marvel, anyone?). Or not so subtly, since the themed options include stickers to let you personalize your bottle or not. Just a note, though, if you’re team Captain America—they rotate collections, so if you see a bottle you want, don’t hesitate to pick it up.

• It’s just as easy to sip through the straw as it is to pick up the bottle and chug
• The handle doubles as a lock to keep it from popping open accidentally
• There’s a little learning curve to getting used to drinking from the spout, but it feels like second nature once you do
• The soft plastic top is prone to blemishes

If you need the best insulated water bottle, Hydro Flask's wide selection is a good place to start looking. Their bottles are well-insulated, comfortable to carry, and available in several bright and neutral colors, depending on your tastes. While we like the OG for its steadfast reliability, Hydro Flask also offers a larger variety of capacities than some other brands, and they have a lighter-weight Trail Series of bottles if you want to cut ounces. On top of that, the different sizes have a similar footprint, so you don't have to worry about them fitting in a cup or bottle holder. For example, the 18- and 21-ounce bottles are just less than an inch apart in height and have the same circumference. We find that it gives us more flexibility when choosing the best water bottle for any occasion without losing the ability to use a water bottle pocket.

It's not just for water and other cold drinks, either—Hydro Flask is also great at keeping hot drinks hot, and we like to use it for our coffee. If you're looking for a way to soften the clunking sound when you set it down, Hydro Flask sells an accessory called the Flex Boot to mute the clanging. And we'd be remiss if we failed to mention the potential for denting, though it took more than a year of testing before we experienced that with our bottles. Sometimes there's a reason something is a classic, which is the case with Hydro Flask.

• It’s the best water bottle from a brand we’ve come to know and trust—and it keeps your drink cold all day long
• You can get tons of colors and different sizes to match your needs and personality
• The first ding hurts the most—seriously, it’s a little prone to dents, mostly if you’re prone to dropping it; we haven’t noticed it affect usage, though some users report reduced insulation
• It’s not a one-handed drinking experience unless you buy a straw cap separately

When you don’t want to be weighed down just for the sake of insulation, check out the AeroLight Transit Bottle. It’s the best water bottle if you would like to forget that you’re even carrying a bottle all day yet still have your drink cold when you reach for it. The spun stainless steel bottle with double-walled insulation weighs less than 10 ounces, compared with 12-15 ounces for other similar options. And that’s before you add water. Plus, it’s leakproof to protect your other gear from spills—really, the thin gasket around the lid works well even when we shake it upside down—and it slides easily into just about any bottle holder.

While the various “glimmer” colorways have a slight sparkle when you hold them in the light, it’s very subtle and balanced by the smooth exterior, which is very soft to the touch. When you want to take a drink, you can flip the top of the plastic lid easily with one hand and click it back into place just as quickly. The spout is pleasant to drink from, as long as you’re more careful than we are not to tip it too high to get the last drop, in which case you might run into a few dribbles on your chin.

• It’s the best water bottle to open one-handed, which we love when driving a rental car
• We don’t mind carrying it all day just in case because it is so lightweight
• Every colorway at the time of writing includes a bit of a “glimmer,” though we find it very subtle and not very noticeable
• Wash it quickly after enjoying coffee or tea to minimize taste transfer

YETI is known for keeping your drinks cold, but their Yonder series of bottles is significantly lighter and more sporty than other models from the cooler brand. There are two cap options: the standard Chug Cap, which gives you a wide opening to drink from, or the Tether Cap, sold separately. We like that the tether keeps the cap attached to the travel water bottle, making the opening smaller and less likely to spill. We also find that it offers more flow, so it’s easier to use than the Chug Cap, although it can topple the bottle when it’s empty.

We like that the BPA-free bottle contains 50% recycled plastic. It’s also leakproof, and who doesn’t want that? You might be surprised to see that the Yonder isn’t completely round; it has one flat side that makes it easier to hold onto and helps it sit better in a travel backpack's water bottle pocket. You can get it in sizes ranging from 20-50 ounces, but it lacks additional insulation, so this is the best water bottle for times when you can refill throughout the day or explore in colder weather.

• The flat side makes stowing it in a backpack easier
• It comes in a variety of sizes, from 20-50 ounces
• Unlike most YETI bottles, this one can’t keep your drink hot or cold for long
• The Yonder Cap tips the bottle over when you’re filling it up

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

Supertasters, this is the best water bottle for you. The Purist Collective Mover preserves the taste of water, no matter what else you fill it with throughout the day (or night). Like many other bottles, Purist Collective uses stainless steel as its base, but it also has a 60-nanometer layer of unbreakable glass inside—that's what touches your drink. Are you tired of tasting metal when you leave your travel water bottle sitting too long? You won't have that problem with the Purist Collective Mover. It’s great when you don’t want to chug your drink while traveling and would prefer not to taste the flavor of yesterday afternoon's lemonade.

This bottle can handle hot and cold liquids, so you can pack just one vessel for your road trip to take care of your morning coffee and afternoon hydration. It’s only rated up to 185 degrees (our coffee pot perks at about 170), so beware of pouring boiling water straight from the kettle. You wouldn’t want to scald your mouth like that anyway! Purist Collective has different sizes of bottles if you’re searching for something smaller or larger and different caps, like the Scope Cap, which we find better for warm beverages. We like that you can mix and match the bottles and caps, depending on what you need that day, and they all provide excellent insulation and no taste transfer. We have to warn you that it’s hard to switch back to a different stainless steel bottle after drinking from a Purist because we find that all you taste is metal for the first few sips. So, if you’re searching for a bottle that can handle both hot and cold beverages without having to taste either (As long as you rinse it in between. You knew that, right?), this may be the best insulated water bottle for you.

• The thin layer of glass on the interior really works to prevent your water from taking on a stainless steel taste over time
• You can swap out different Purist lids to drink coffee or other beverages based on your preference
• The cap occasionally makes a slight slurping or whistling noise when you drink from it
• Carry handle and rim are impacted by liquid’s temperature, so it can be uncomfortable to hold

Best for: Full-time Travelers

When walking around Walt Disney World carrying a mini backpack filled with sunscreen and a couple of snacks, this is the best water bottle to bring along. Why is that? Because when you’re visiting an amusement park , a museum, or the zoo, there are usually a lot of places to refill a water bottle. So why would you want to lug along something big and bulky when you really just need a way to get water into your mouth without touching a questionable fountain?

That’s why we love this minimalist travel water bottle. The Vapur Eclipse Water Bottle is the most packable on this list, yet it still has a 1L capacity. Vapur includes a carabiner clip for two reasons: to attach it to the outside of your pack, sling , or belt loop and to secure the rolled-up bottle when packed away. Its collapsibility means you're not stuck lugging around an empty travel water bottle when you finish your drink—simply slip it into your daypack until you're ready to refill. It’s a great travel water bottle for packing light because you only need to carry what you want to consume. In fact, our founder, Tom, carried this bottle alone when he traveled the world for two years as a digital nomad. That's not to say it's perfect. Its flexibility makes it tricky to slide into a bottle pocket, even when filled to the brim, so we prefer to clip it on your bag every time. It also lacks insulation, which can be a disadvantage when you want to fill it up once and carry it for a long time in a hot climate. We think those are minor drawbacks, though, compared with the convenience of this bottle. We recommend practicing drinking from it before leaving home since you have to get the hang of holding it without squeezing liquid onto your face as you tip it up, but it’s pretty easy to do.

Oh, and a word of caution from someone who cares: Try to keep your kid from pouring the blue Powerade leftover from lunch inside. While it won’t hurt the bottle long-term, and the taste and smell definitely come out when you wash it back at home, you will be tasting it the rest of the day.

• It folds up small enough to fit in your pocket when you aren’t using it so that you can save space and weight
• The included carabiner is great for carrying it while filled and for keeping it rolled up when empty
• There’s no insulation, so your drink will return to ambient temperature after some time
• It can sweat if you pour ice-cold water inside and then go out in warmer temperatures

Can we let you in on a secret? The Klean Kanteen TKWide 16-ounce bottle looks like a standard wide-mouth water bottle, but it's tailor-made for those who love to sip through a straw. The lid looks similar to other flat tops with a handle, but a silicone tip pops out when you twist the top layer. Presto! You can enjoy your water without worrying about spilling down your chin. If having a straw is essential for you, this might be the best insulated water bottle for you. While we've had problems with other straw bottles leaking (we’re looking at you, Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler ), the TKWide's straw forms a good seal when closed.

Of course, using a straw travel water bottle means you have to pack a brush to clean it, but that's a small price to pay if it's what you prefer. And if it’s not, Klean Kanteen offers different cap types, so you can mix and match if you're not digging it one day. You can take the cap completely apart to get it squeaky clean, and it's connected to a stainless-steel straw that pops out without a hassle, too. Instead of a silicone gasket, Klean Kanteen has a unique bead-like internal thread design that aims to maintain the temperature of your drink longer than competitors. Unfortunately, we found that it doesn’t do quite as good a job as some other water bottles, but it keeps it comfortably cold throughout the day—if 16 ounces lasts that long for you. While you can technically drink coffee from this one, we recommend not to because of the straw—we don't have to Google third-degree mouth burns to know we don't want them.

• The Twist Cap comes with an included straw that hides away when you fully close the lid, so it travels without spilling
• We dig how comfortable it is to hold the powder-coated exterior
• It’s rather large for the amount of liquid it holds
• The cap’s silicone straw is difficult to remove for cleaning

For the best water bottle when you don’t want to sacrifice weight for insulation, try the Zojirushi Cool Bottle. We find it a good fit when we want to pack ultralight but don’t want to drink from a collapsible bottle. At only 9.3 ounces, it's one of the lightest insulated bottles we've found. Compared to other insulated water bottles from brands like YETI that can weigh in at more than a pound before we add water, the Zojirushi delivers. We dig the secure opening mechanism—no one wants to worry about the cap popping open and releasing the Kraken into your bag, and we don't stress with this travel water bottle. The spring-loaded straw is perfect for those who like to sip instead of chug. It comes apart so you can thoroughly clean it, although the flexible nature of the straw means we have to pack a straw cleaner. We also have to note that there are several small parts to keep track of, so we don’t bother cleaning this in a tiny airplane bathroom. If you’re looking for something that will keep your drink cool without breaking a sweat, this might be the best insulated water bottle for you.

• You don’t have to choose between lightweight or insulated with this water bottle
• The cap comes completely apart for cleaning
• The straw makes noise when you’re drinking
• There are a lot of small parts to keep track of

Best for: Professional Travelers

One constant in the hundreds of bags we’ve tested over the years here at Pack Hacker is that there’s no consistency in the pockets provided in a travel backpack or daypack. While we may wish for a water bottle pocket to be standard, it’s not always the case. Memobottle solves that problem by designing their travel water bottles to fit inside the pocket or sleeve of any bag like a notebook. It’s the best water bottle to slip into the thin pocket of a laptop bag, just like a file folder, since memobottle modeled them after international paper sizes. We know it looks like a flask, but that shape makes it a great solution when a bag manufacturer forgets that drinking isn’t just for Old Fashioneds at Happy Hour.

The A6 holds 12.7 ounces of liquid, and we’ve found it an innovative solution to make the most of every inch of space in our sling or small bag. Adding the silicone sleeve to the lightweight plastic bottle provides some insulation, or you can opt for the leather sleeve for a more stylish look. It’s a clear water bottle without the sleeve, so you can see when it needs cleaning. The travel water bottle is available in various sizes: the larger A5, the smaller A7, and The Slim, which is skinny and tall like regular water bottles. Whichever you choose, it offers a unique, minimalist style that fits just about anywhere.

• Its rectangular design fits inside packs without a dedicated water bottle pocket
• The silicone sleeve adds grip and a little insulation
• It won’t keep your drink cold for very long because it lacks built-in insulation
• You may have some explaining to do if someone thinks you’re tippling something harder than water

It's five o’clock somewhere, and you can have your water (and wine, too!) with the EcoVessel The ASPEN Insulated Stainless Steel Water & Wine Bottle. With a style that could complement a bartender's cocktail shaker, we think this is a water bottle James Bond might ask for if he ever opted to hydrate before his martini. EcoVessel touts its suitability for cocktails, wine, and non-alcoholic hot and cold beverages, so we think this is the best water bottle if you plan to drink something other than H20. It’s also easy to clean the bottle and lid since there are no extra parts, so it’s simple to ensure your bottle won’t smell like your Moscow mule or mojito the day after you enjoy using it for something other than water by the pool.

The high-quality insulation is supposed to keep beverages cold for days: we tested this and found a drink only lost about 10 degrees after 12 hours at nearly 70 degrees. That's because the stainless steel bottle is triple-insulated, and the lid is insulated, too. Also good to note is the lid's design: your water never touches plastic, which some users appreciate. The ASPEN is significantly more compact than some other insulated bottles, so it's the best water bottle for sliding into smaller bags. Fill it with cold water for your travels, then refill it for Happy Hour when you reach your destination. We like that there’s minimal clanging when we set it down, and it stays put, thanks to the silicone ring on the bottom.

• You can use it as a water bottle or a wine container for ultimate drink variety
• Drinks stay cold for a long time
• The matte finish is prone to scratches
• Nothing is tethering the cap, so you have to hold it while you drink

If you wear your style on your sleeve, why shouldn’t you show it off with your water bottles? Chilly's is the best water bottle company if you’re looking to be unique, since it has a wide variety of colors and patterns available. The Chilly’s Series 2 Water Bottle has an updated style and new features like an antimicrobial collar, carry handle, and a rubber bottom that muffles the sound when you set the bottle down. While the Chilly’s Original still has the most options for colors and patterns, we think the updated features are a good reason to go with the upgrade. Plus, Chilly’s continues to add more colorways, prints, ombres, and special collections to the Series 2 line. Art from the Tate Modern, anyone?

No matter the version, Chilly's water bottles have a carry handle reminiscent of a Hydro Flask, although it’s a bit shorter, reducing the clearance between your fingers and the top of the cap. We still find it comfortable to carry, but it’s worth noting for those with larger hands. While we noticed the rubber bottom is beginning to peel off ours, it’s a small blemish on an otherwise sleek bottle. Plus, your tastes will likely change before that happens, so you can always grab a new one to match your current style. This makes Chilly's the best insulated water bottle for those who want variety and options in terms of styling and aesthetics. No matter which one you're sporting, rest assured you'll never confuse it with your friend's or a fellow traveler's—unless you both choose the same pattern, of course.

• There are a ton of different colorways to choose from, so you can select a style that’s as vibrant as you are
• A rubber bottom mutes the sound as you set it down
• The rubber bottom on our bottle started to peel off after just two weeks
• If you tighten it too much, the antimicrobial collar can come off with the lid when you unscrew it

Best for: Frugal Travelers

We know we’re supposed to drink more than a dozen cups of water daily, but keeping track of your hydration can be hard. The Nalgene Wide Mouth travel water bottle takes the guesswork out with measurements printed along the side in both imperial and metric. If you’re someone who doesn’t like the metallic taste of stainless steel water bottles, it's made of BPA-free copolyester to resist stains and odors. We find it’s one of the best water bottles for durability. Case in point: we’re still using the one that fell from a bike while riding to work, and unlike some metal bottles, this one didn't dent. The attached loop helps you keep a handle on the bottle so that, hopefully, you can keep a better hold of it than we did or connect it with a carabiner to a large travel backpack that locks bottle pockets. It's light for its size, too—the 32-ounce bottle weighs in at just 6.25 ounces, so it doesn't add much weight to your bag.

We like that there are dozens of colors and different sizes to choose from, and they’re all easy to fill with ice, a water filter, or a water purifier, thanks to the wide opening. It's easy to get your hand in for cleaning, too, and since it’s transparent, it’s the best water bottle to see when it needs washing. It isn’t the best insulated water bottle out there, but what you miss there, you make up for in capacity. It’s made in the USA and guaranteed for life, so this may be the last travel water bottle you need to buy.

• It’s durable and has a large capacity to help you stay hydrated each day of your trip
• Printed measurements on the side help you know exactly how much water you’ve consumed each day
• A lack of insulation means you’ll be having ambient-temperature water if you carry it too long
• It’s pretty indestructible, yet not the most aesthetically-pleasing bottle out there

If the best water bottle for you is transparent, fairly indestructible, and lightweight, check out this one from CamelBak. Although it’s plastic, it’s 50% recycled and free of harmful chemicals like BPA (bisphenol A), BPS (bisphenol S), and BPF (bisphenol F), so we’re not concerned about getting more than we bargain for along with our drink. It comes in a rainbow of colors and sizes ranging from 20-50 ounces, so you can grab the one that’s best for you, whether you want an everyday sipper for working remotely or one with a higher capacity to keep you hydrated on your hike. Just keep in mind that the water will warm up as you do, as there’s no built-in insulation, but it’s also not going to be something heavy to carry for miles like a well-insulated jug.

Since it’s so sturdy, we don’t worry about it denting or cracking when we’re not paying attention, which comes in handy when we clip it outside a travel daypack instead of sliding it in a bottle pocket. The cap stays attached to the lid when we’re drinking, and we love it when we don’t have to use another hand or find a place to set down a cap. The built-in handle is a bit thick and juts out the side, but we have no issue holding it with a few fingers when walking along the beach, which is all we need it to do.

• You don’t have to hold the cap to take a sip
• It’s made with recycled materials and free of harmful chemicals
• There’s no built-in insulation, but it’s pretty lightweight
• The handle isn’t flexible, so it always sticks out the side

The GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier is the best water bottle for when you plan to spend more time in the woods than the airport. GRAYL's filtering system eliminates harmful bacteria and heavy metals in seconds, allowing you to drink from any fountain, river, or other water source you stumble upon. And, hey, it also comes in handy when you’re traveling to countries that may take “revenge” on you drinking from their water supply. We’ve traveled the world enough to know that even densely populated areas aren't guaranteed to have potable water.

Wherever you roam, this bottle puts your strength to use to provide you with hydration. It’s easy to use when you want to take a sip and find a suitable source. Fill the outer refill with water, insert the inner press filter and bottle, and press down. In just over 15 seconds, the water travels through the filter at the base to create safe drinking water when you need it most. The filter lasts for up to 300 uses. Paying attention to how long it takes to press the water cues you in as to when the filter needs replacing so you don’t have to keep track; when it creeps up to 25 seconds, you'll want to set a reminder on your phone to order and install a new cartridge when you get home.

• A one-way valve allows you to add electrolytes, drink mixes, and other flavored liquids to the travel water bottle
• The earthy colorways get us excited to explore the outdoors
• You have to replace cartridges every so often
• It only purifies 16 oz at a time, so you may have to stop often for refills

So there you have it, a travel water bottle to fit nearly any need. From the city to the forest to the subcontinent, having a way to stay hydrated will help you make the most of your trip. No matter what niche you need your water bottle to fill, we think one of these will get the job done!

July 19, 2022

Author: Kristyne Defever

Kristyne loves theme parks, tropical islands, and hitting the road in the camper with her family. Whether running through Walt Disney World, walking the shores of Lake Michigan, or hiking the Smoky Mountains, she's happiest exploring the outdoors. She enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat.

The Best Travel Water Bottle Tested on the Road

• In the City / Outdoors / Packing / Travel Gear

Looking for the best travel water bottle? These are our favorites that we tested on the road.

We travel as minimally as possible, but one item we won’t leave home without is a travel water bottle. They help us stay hydrated on our adventures and decrease our consumption of single-use plastics.

Like our travel backpacks and suitcases , the best water bottle depends on your type of travel , domestic or international , and activities. Some bottles are great for home use, but when you’re on the go, you must consider certain features.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: December 24, 2023

− − Content Menu

• What to Look for in a Water Bottle
• Best Carry Water Bottles
• More Water Bottles to Check Out
• Essential Tips

Planning Checklist

• Best Water Bottle Material
• Features to Look For

What to Look for in a Travel Water Bottle

Before we get into our favorite water bottles, here’s what you should look for.

Questions to Ask

• Where are you traveling? Will drinking water be hard to find? Do you need to filter the water?
• What is the climate? If you’re going somewhere extremely cold or hot, you may want your water to stay hot or cold longer.
• What activities are you doing? Are you spending most of your time outside or in cities?
• What is your travel style? If you travel light, some bottles take up minimal space.
• How are you carrying the bottle? Will you carry it in your backpack or separately? What is your bag capacity?
• Are you traveling with a partner? We tend to share our water bottles, so we bring a larger capacity, but I carry a smaller bottle when I travel solo.

See More: 15 Carry On Essentials You Need for Every Flight

Best Water bottles for Travel

Here are the water bottles we’ve tried and still use regularly.

1. Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide-Mouth 32 oz – Best for domestic travel ($49.95) →

The lightweight series from Hydro Flask is our favorite water bottle for domestic travel. We got our first Hydro Flasks when we started our outdoor journey and have been using them since (long before they became a trendy symbol for the eco-conscious!). The photo below shows our collection growing over the past 10+ years.

The lightweight series was their answer to complaints about weight. They don’t have the best reviews compared to the original bottle, but when we travel, we carry this the most because it has the best balance of insulation and weight (12 oz vs 15.5 oz). Weight isn’t an issue at home, so we use the original bottle, which keeps drinks cold and hot longer. We also have the 24 oz and 40 oz but use the 32 oz most often.

Capacity: 32 fl oz Weight: 12 oz Dimensions: 10.2 x 3.25 inches Material: Stainless Steel

• Lighter than the original Hydro Flask
• Easy to clean
• Tapered build to save on weight but durable on the bottom
• Keeps liquids cold and hot
• Lots of color options.
• Lots of lid options
• Fits in cup holders
• Not as insulating as the original bottle
• Hand wash only
• Dents easier than the original
• No boot options

2. Larq Bottle PureVis Insulated 25 oz – Best travel water bottle for international trips ($118.00) →

The LARQ Bottle uses PureVis tech to eliminate up to 99% (based on the elimination of 99.8% of E.coli in a 20-second cycle for all LARQ Bottles) of bio-contaminants from your water and bottle. All the tech is in the cap, which will turn on every 2 hours to clean the water and the bottle. You can also manually push the button on top to activate it.

It’s our go-to when we travel internationally and aren’t sure if the water is unsafe to drink. The non-insulated version is lighter, weighing 10.7 oz (24 fluid oz) and 12.5 oz (32 fl oz).

Capacity: 25 fl oz / 17 oz Weight: 17 oz / 13.5 oz Dimensions: 10.4 x 3 inches Material: Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel

• Cleans the water and bottle
• Eliminates up to 99% of bio-contaminates
• Cleans in 60 seconds
• Keeps water hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hrs
• A full charge will last up to a month.
• No replacement filters needed
• Beautiful design, and we like their color combos
• Dishwasher safe except for cap
• You will need to charge it
• Still need to clean the rim of the bottle
• MicroUSB (will need another cable when traveling for over a month)

Pro Tip: They have a cute travel sleeve or active loop (with built-in carabiner) accessories.

3. Grayl 16.9 oz Ultrapress TI Purifier – Best For Backpacking ($199.95) →

We first discovered GRAYL water bottles in 2015 for our backpacking trips. It uses a French-press-style filtering system to remove waterborne pathogens (99.99% of viruses, 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.9% of protozoan cysts). The LARQ does not filter larger particles like the Grayl. It’s an excellent bottle for camping and backpacking, plus the titanium model can be used for cooking (without the cap/filter).

Capacity: 16.9 fl oz Weight: 14.1 oz Dimensions: 9.5 x 2.75 inches Material: CP54 Grade 1 Titanium

• French-press style filtering that’s easy to use
• Removes viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts
• Titanium offers great strength
• Can cook with the titanium part
• Filters last up to 3 years after opening
• A one-way valve allows for electrolyte drink mixes.
• Filters 3 liters per minute
• It fits in a cup holder.
• Not dishwasher safe
• Small capacity
• A slender body means you must prop it up if you’re cooking with it.
• Not many color options

Pro Tip: If you want to purify bigger quantities of water at a time, go with the GeoPress since it’s larger.

See More: Recap of Our Endless Caravan

4. Pelican Pacific – Best Handle ($40) →

If you plan on carrying your water bottle without a backpack, the Pelican Pacific has one of the best ergonomic handles with grip. The top has a built-in straw, and the water bottle comes in many colors.

Capacity: 26 fl oz Weight: 24 oz Dimensions: 10.5 x 3.25 inches Material: Stainless Steel

• Recycled 18/8 double wall stainless steel
• Vacuum-insulated and copper lining
• Leak-proof screw top lid
• Straw spout built-in
• Ergonomic and grippy handle
• Dishwasher safe
• Lots of color options
• Heavier bottle
• Straw adds one more thing that needs to be cleaned

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for something to use day-to-day, they also have the Pelican Porter, which is a mug-style bottle and has a 40 oz capacity. These are very trendy right now.

5. HiBear All-Day Adventure Flask – Best Versatile Bottle ($95) →

The HiBear All-Day Adventure Flask is the Swiss army knife of insulated bottles . You can make pour-over coffee , mix cocktails, decant wine, make loose-leaf tea, brew a batch of cold brew, infuse water, or simply use it like a regular water bottle.

Capacity: 32 fl oz Weight: 29 oz Dimensions: 11 x 3.7 inches Material: Stainless steel

• Versatile – Has many uses.
• Packs up nicely into one container
• Electropolish – micro-smooth internal finish makes it corrosion and pathogen-resistant
• The silicone sleeve can be used as a mug for your friends or your pet
• Insulation – even the lid is vacuum insulated.
• Thermal Core – You can freeze the steel core to keep your drinks cold without diluting
• Easy to clean. You can use the top rack of your dishwasher, but they recommend handwashing.
• Climate-neutral certified and 1% for the Planet member
• Heavier with lots of parts (although you can leave parts at home)
• A learning curve to make the most use of it

6. Hydro Flask 32 OZ Wide Mouth – Best Customized Bottle ($45) →

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind bottle, you can get a custom one from Hydro Flask! You select colors for each component and can even engrave it with a name, quote, or brand. They have several options for sizes and styles, but we have the classic 32 oz Wide Mouth with our blog name, Local Adventurer, as our engraving (colors – mint bottle, camelia cap, fog strap, and lupine boot).

Capacity: 32 fl oz Weight: 0.97 lb Dimensions: 11 x 3.55 inches Material: Stainless steel

• Double-wall vacuum
• Lots of different options to choose from
• Made with pro-grade stainless steel for durability
• The customizing interface on the website can load slowly.
• May get analysis paralysis with too many choices

7. Platypus SoftBottle 1L – Best Collapsible ($12.95) →

If you’re looking for something super lightweight, the Platypus Softbottles are the way to go. When empty, you can roll them up so they take up little to no space. For the longest time, I bought a bunch of these as gifts since I found them so useful.

Capacity: 34 fl oz Weight: 1.2 oz Dimensions: 13 x 6 inches Material: BPA-, BPS-, and phthalate-free plastic

• Extremely lightweight
• Packs small and flat when empty
• Versatile opening compatible with any threaded Platypus lid, water filters, and more
• Dishwasher safe (make sure they are fully expanded)
• Doesn’t sit well in cup holders
• Since it doesn’t hold form, it can be harder to drink from.

Best Water bottles for home use

8. hydro flask 128 oz oasis – best large capacity ($128) →.

If you’re always thirsty (or live in the desert like we do), we want to have a lot of water with us. The Hydro Flask Oasis holds 128 oz or one gallon of water. We bring it with us when we pickleball , when people run out of cold water, we can even share. It’s our newest bottle, and we’ve already gotten compliments on it!

Capacity: 128 fl oz Weight: 4.08 lb Dimensions: 17.35 x 6.45 inches Material: Stainless Steel

• Large liquid capacity
• Leak proof lid
• Sturdy yet flexible handle to carry it
• Double wall vacuum insulated
• It comes with a straw-cleaning brush.
• It’s heavy when full
• Doesn’t fit in bags

9. Popflex Gallon Timer Bottle – Best To Help You Stay On Track ($45) →

If you need a way to monitor your water intake at home, the Popflex Gallon Timer Bottle gives you goals to hit throughout the day. It has a solid handle, making it easy to transport, and the new ones come with an infuser. If you don’t like drinking plain water, add cucumbers or fruits to give it a little flavor. They also make cute bottle bags to help you carry it around.

Capacity: 128 fl oz Weight: 30 oz Dimensions: 12 x 6.25 inches Material: BPA Free Plastic

• Leakproof lid
• Sturdy handle to carry it
• Timer markings with encouraging words
• Removable fruit infuser
• It is hard to clean below the handle, and I need to use a separate, thinner bottle brush to clean the handle.

Best Water Bottle material

The type of material your bottle is made of will affect its durability and weight.

• Aluminum – Lightweight and affordable, but flavors cling to the lining, and it’s less durable than stainless steel.
• Glass – Dishwasher safe, zero effect on taste, and you can see what’s in it (con if you’re sneaking in alcohol somewhere lol). On the flip side, glass is heavy, there is no insulation, and it’s more fragile.
• Plastic – Lightweight and affordable but can leach chemicals into your water and leave an aftertaste. Plus, it ages quickly and isn’t great for the environment.
• Stainless Steel (Single Walled) – Lightweight, durable, and no health risk. Single walls have less insulation and transfer heat. Plus, they dent easier.
• Stainless Steel (Insulated) – Keeps drinks hot and cold the longest, durable, and no health risks. Cons include it’s heavier and requires hand washing only if vacuum insulated.

Features to Look for

• Size: How much water do you need with you? Will you have places to refill it?
• Bottle Shape: Bottles are made thinner and wider. Where do you want to store your bottle (backpack sleeve/cup holder etc.)?
• Collapsible vs Rigid: Some bottles are made to collapse when empty to save space.
• Bottle Height: This mostly plays into how you fill your bottle. Tall bottles may not fit into certain appliances.
• Mouth Size: Bottles come in narrow and wide mouths. We prefer wide mouths because they are easier to clean and drink.
• Water Bottle Lids: Usually, you don’t have a choice in what lid comes with the bottle, but most companies sell different lids that you can change out. Do you want a handle or your bottle, or do you want to carry it with a carabiner? Do you prefer a nozzle or straw so it’s easy to drink?
• Temperature Control: If you want your bottle to keep your drinks hot or cold, you’ll need an insulated water bottle.
• Filtering Capabilities: Some water bottles have built-in filtering, which you may need when traveling to some countries. Also, consider the filtering mechanism (i.e., UV lights don’t separate debris, filter straws allow you to suck through the straw, and a French press method requires more physical effort).
• Look & Feel: Water bottles can be as much of a statement piece as your clothes now.
• Cleaning the Bottle: Water bottles need to be cleaned regularly (many sources say daily). Wide mouths are easier to clean. Some bottle materials require hand washing only. Are there areas that are hard to access with a bottle brush?

See More: 17 Best Travel Backpacks You Need to Check Out

More Travel Water Bottles to Check Out

Here are more popular travel water bottles to check out. Some we’ve tested and didn’t think they belonged on our top list, and others we still need to check out. As we test them, we’ll add them to the list if we like them. Are we missing any that should be on here?

• Hydro Flask Vacuum Water Bottle – we love using these water bottles when we’re home or exploring our own city, but not so much when we’re traveling.
• Nalgene Wide Mouth Water Bottle – we’ve used nalgenes in the past, and it’s especially nice if you’re cold weather camping. You can pour hot water in it, and bring it into your sleeping bag.
• CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle
• Mira Cascade
• Mover Vacuum Water Bottle
• Parifyou Glass Water Bottle
• Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle
• ThermoFlask Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

Essential Tips for Your perfect travel water bottle

• Features – Think about what features you want in your bottle and prioritize them to help you decide what’s best for your lifestyle.
• Wash Your Bottles – Bottles will gather bacteria, and it’s always best to wash them regularly (ideally daily).
• Dump any unused water out at the end of the day to let it dry to reduce bacteria from growing.
• Pick up a bottle brush – it makes cleaning easier. Most bottle brushes need to be replaced between one to three months, depending on how often you use it. This natural fiber bottle brush set is more sustainable and can last up to six months.
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

What travel water bottle do you recommend? Are there any others we should include on this list?

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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The 10 Best Collapsible Water Bottles of 2024

For a water bottle that’s lightweight and doesn’t take up a lot of space in your pack, look for one with a collapsible design.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

A lightweight, collapsible water bottle can be helpful during your daily commute or an absolute necessity on a multi-day backpacking trip. No matter your circumstances, a water bottle that’s there when you need it and stows away when you don’t is a major convenience. The best collapsible water bottles all have a few things in common: they’re well-designed, hold up to wear and tear, and pack down small when not in use. 

We tested 27 standard and collapsible water bottles in our New York City lab and in the real world during our travels. We also conducted extensive research to select the top-rated collapsible bottles for just about any activity or need.

Best Overall

Lifestraw peak series collapsible bottle.

This system includes a fast and reliable filter.

The microfilter is not safe to filter water that contains chemical pollution or agricultural runoff.

This lightweight, durable bottle comes with a membrane microfilter that removes the majority of bacteria, parasites, and silt or sand. It’s ideal for outdoor activities like camping and hiking since it allows you to safely drink from streams and rainwater sources, and its packability makes it an ideal airport travel companion. We found the bottle’s size to be just right, and had no issues with leakage during our testing. 

The filter is among the best we’ve tried, too; although many of the most effective filters can run extremely slowly, this one flows quickly. Plus, Lifestraw has an impressive approach to social good: for every 500 products they sell, they install a water purifier for a school in need, and provide that school with ongoing support. 

The Details: 1-liter capacity | 3.9 ounces | 4.7 x 12.1 inches | Thermoplastic polyurethane

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Most Durable

Nomader collapsible water bottle.

The thick silicone makes it look and feel like a traditional water bottle. 

It can be difficult to roll up and secure.

Bag-style collapsible bottles are light and portable, but often lack durability. The Nomader, on the other hand, is made of thick silicone, and includes a plastic sleeve that slides around the middle of the bottle and makes it function more like a traditional bottle. It also stands on its own when empty or full, and fits in most standard cup holders. We were especially impressed with the durable cap and spout cover, which kept the bottle leak-free and didn’t budge during testing. The one drawback of this bottle’s thick, durable construction: we found it challenging to roll up and secure the strap, and it felt bulky once collapsed. Still, it’s a great option for everyday use once you get the hang of it. 

The Details: 22-ounce capacity | 7 ounces | 2.9 x 10.5 inches | Silicone

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Travel + Leisure / Janelle Jones

Best Lightweight

Vapur solid flex.

This bottle is incredibly lightweight and compact. 

It’s difficult to get the bottle completely dry inside.

Vapur has a passionate following among outdoor enthusiasts, and this bottle makes it easy to see why. This bag-style bottle weighs just two ounces, one of the lightest bottles we tested, but still holds up to 23 ounces of water. It didn’t leak at all during our testing, and it rolls up easily to a compact size. The lightweight spout is pleasant to drink from, and the bottle didn’t give off a plastic taste. Like many bag-style bottles, this one can be frozen, but unlike many other models, it stands when full, making it easier to manage. Its shape does make it challenging to completely dry out inside; the manufacturer recommends addressing this by blowing air into the bottle to fully inflate and placing it upside down on a drying rack. 

The Details: 23-ounce capacity | 2 ounces | 5.6 x 11.5 inches | Plastic

Most Easy to Clean

Hydrapak stash collapsible water bottle.

Its wide mouth makes it easy to clean out all nooks and crannies.

The flexible body can be difficult to hold one-handed.

The construction of collapsible bottles can make it difficult to get them fully clean and dry — a crucial drawback when traveling or on the go. The Hydrapak Stash eliminates this challenge with a wide mouth and dishwasher safe materials, so it’s exceptionally easy to keep clean. It’s lightweight and durable, and after an initial scrub, it doesn’t give beverages the plastic taste some silicone bottles can. It stands up well, even while filling, although it can feel floppy and less manageable when it’s not completely full; it’s not ideal for drinking one-handed during activities like cycling for this reason. 

The Details: 1-liter capacity | 3.7 ounces | 3.9 x 8.2 inches | Thermoplastic polyurethane, polypropylene

Best Leak-proof

Platypus softbottle.

Its lid is exceptionally resistant to leaks.

The screw cap isn’t attached to the bottle and is easy to lose.  

The Platypus SoftBottle gets high marks for its water-tight construction, even when it’s tossed around in a pack during activities. And despite its lightweight and very packable size, it’s surprisingly durable. It’s both freezable and dishwasher safe, and, like most bag-style bottles, it dries relatively easily by inflating it with a bit of air and leaving it uncapped. This Platypus model offers both a screw closure cap or push-pull cap; the closure cap is our recommendation for maximum peace of mind against leaks, but the cap doesn’t attach to the bottle when open so it can be easy to lose. 

The Details: 1-liter capacity | 1.2 ounces | 6 x 13 inches | Polyethylene

Most Stylish

Stojo collapsible water bottle.

It comes in 19 different colors and has a great design, whether full or collapsed. 

Its initial rubbery smell can be hard to get rid of.  

For everyday use, it’s ideal to find a bottle that offers both function and form. The Stojo is one of the more stylish collapsible bottles we’ve found, without sacrificing durability and leak-resistance. The 20-ounce bottle comes in 19 different colors, and has an attractive, tea-cup-like design even when collapsed. Its large lid loop can easily accommodate a carabiner for attaching the bottle to your bag strap or stroller handle when it’s empty or full. And although all the bottles on our list pass basic food safety standards, this one is certified using the European LFGB standard, which is even more strict than the FDA’s requirements. The 20-ounce wide-mouth bottle is the most useful in our view, but it also comes with a sport cap or in a smaller, kid-friendly 14-ounce size . 

The Details: 20-ounce capacity | 6 ounces | 3.7 x 7.1 inches | Silicone

Best for Running

Camelbak quick stow flask.

The flat, compact shape is easy to manage while exercising.

The small size doesn’t lend itself well to long-distance runs. 

The last thing you want to do in the middle of a run is stop and fiddle with your water bottle, but this flask makes it easy to hydrate while you’re on the move. It fits easily in a running belt , vest, or fanny pack when full; when empty, it’s small and flexible enough to be stashed inside a pocket. The bottle uses CamelBak’s signature bite-valve, which may take some getting used to, but is leak-proof and can be easy to use while moving. For warm-weather runs, it can be filled partway and frozen overnight, or it can be loaded up with ice cubes through the wide-mouth top. The inside of the flask has an antimicrobial coating to help prevent mold, and the small loop at the bottom makes it easy to hang dry. 

The Details: 12-ounce capacity | 1 ounce | 3.3 x 8.5 inches | Polyurethane

Best for Hiking

Katadyn befree water filter.

Its filter cap allows it be refilled from almost any water source. 

The thin flask can puncture easily.  

This bottle is small and lightweight for day hikes, but its included filter means you can refill from just about any water source if your trek runs longer or hotter than expected. Its hollow fiber filter removes over 99 percent of bacteria and sediment, and to clean the filter, all it takes is a quick swish in water. The bottle can filter up to two liters of water per minute, so it’s also a great option for refilling other containers with safe water, too. When you’re done hydrating, it rolls up to a compact bundle and can be stashed in your pack or pocket until you need it again. The BeFree filter cap is compatible with the high-capacity Hydrapak Seeker series, so the same filter can also be used to filter larger quantities. 

The Details: 20-ounce capacity | 2 ounces | 2.8 x 9 inches | Thermoplastic polyurethane

Best Capacity

Hydrapak seeker collapsible water container.

This bottle can hold a day (or two) worth of water, but packs down small.

The strong plastic taste can be difficult to get rid of. 

For longer treks or overnight trips where you need to carry your own water, the Hydrapak Seeker Water Storage system is a must-have. It's ultralight and packs down to a small bundle in the included storage bag. It also pours easily for cooking and decanting into smaller containers, and it includes two loops for attaching to packs. If you’re on a multi-day camping trip and need to refill your bottle, the Seeker is also compatible with Hydrapak’s filtration system. Like most bottles made of TPU, it can transfer a strong plastic flavor until it’s been thoroughly washed; the manufacturer suggests filling the bottle with water and lemon juice and freezing overnight to mitigate the taste.

The Details: 100-ounce capacity | 3.2 ounces | 5.5 x 14.6 inches | Thermoplastic polyurethane, polypropylene, nylon

Best for Hot Liquids

Hydaway collapsible insulated drink tumbler.

An insulated sleeve makes it comfortable to hold. 

The metal rim gets hot when the cup is filled to capacity.  

Hot liquids and silicone are not always a functional pairing, but this Hydaway tumbler makes it actually pleasant to sip coffee or tea from a collapsible vessel. The insulated sleeve protects your hand while carrying a full tumbler of hot coffee, and the silicone has very little flavor transfer. Although the lid isn’t toss-your-coffee-in-your-bag secure, the tumbler’s design is great for carrying on your commute, toting on a road trip, or filling up at a campsite. It also comes in a range of outdoorsy designs, so it fits right in on camping trips or picnics. Most importantly: when your drink is gone, the cup collapses down to just over one inch, and the disc can be stored inside the insulated sleeve to keep it clean. The thick construction and metal rim do come at a cost — even empty, this is one of the heavier collapsible drink containers we’ve tried.

The Details: 16-ounce capacity | 7.5 ounces | 4 x 5.5 inches | Silicone

Tips for Buying a Collapsible Water Bottle

Look for durable materials.

The ideal collapsible bottle strikes a careful balance between being lightweight and durable. Too thin and flimsy, and the bottle is easy to puncture and difficult to use; too thick and substantial and its bulk negates its usefulness for travel. Food-grade, BPA-free silicone and thermoplastic polyurethane are popular choices for collapsible bottles, because they hold up to daily wear and tear, but are flexible and light enough to collapse, roll, or fold. Note that all of these materials will likely give off a rubber or plastic smell and flavor initially; each manufacturer typically includes instructions for mitigating flavor transfer. 

Prioritize sturdy lids

A portable bottle doesn’t do any good if it leaks its content all over your bag. Prioritize collapsible bottles with lids that stay put to prevent leaks, and look for closure types that match the activity you’re planning. Collapsible bottles for running or hiking should have spouts or screw tops that are easy to drink from while moving; bottles with higher capacity should be convenient to pour from; and hot beverage containers should offer a way to sip your drink without burning yourself. 

Think about extra features

As you’re shopping for a collapsible bottle, consider how you’ll be using it and prioritize additional features accordingly. If you frequently run or hike in hot weather, an insulated bottle that keeps your drink cool might be a wise choice. Many bottles include carabiners or attachment loop so you can hook them onto your bag; others have built-in filters so you can refill your water from a natural water source while hiking or camping. For commuting and everyday travel, consider a bottle that offers more colors and styles so it fits into your life. If you’re an avid backpacker or camper, you may want a higher capacity bottle that can meet your water needs for an entire trip.

The FDA requires that food-grade silicone is free of BPA and doesn’t leach other harmful chemicals into food or water. Silicone is also able to withstand both low and high temperatures without compromising its integrity, making it a safe choice to eat and drink from. When using a silicone bottle for hot beverages or cooking, it’s important to make sure the temperature doesn’t exceed 428 degrees Fahrenheit — silicone can actually melt at this temperature — but considering most hot drinks don’t exceed 185 degrees Fahrenheit, you’re likely not at risk of melting your bottle with a hot cup of coffee. As with any product used to drink or eat from, if you notice tears or other signs of breakdown, it’s probably time to replace your bottle to be on the safe side. 

Many collapsible bottles are dishwasher safe, but all bottles can be safely washed with warm water and dish soap. A bottle brush can be a handy tool to reach all nooks and crannies in your collapsible bottle, and a small, flexible straw brush can be used to scrub out sport tops, bite valves, or silicone straws. Always make sure to allow your bottle to dry thoroughly before storing to prevent mold from forming; with bag-style collapsible bottles, this often means blowing air into the bottle and leaving it open to dry. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your bottle to make sure you don’t compromise its integrity with improper cleaning.  

For emergency use, it’s handy to leave an empty collapsible bottle with an included filter in your car. That way, you can fill your bottle from any available water source if needed. For running errands or taking shorter car trips, an insulated bottle that fits in your car’s cup holders and keeps your drink at an optimal temperature is a great choice. Whatever vessel you choose, avoid leaving reusable bottles filled with liquid in your car for extended periods of time, as it can both damage the bottle and affect the safety (and flavor) of the beverage inside. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Mandy Harris is a contributing writer at Travel + Leisure , and has vetted hundreds of travel products over the past decade. For this story, she analyzed in-house testing insights, manufacturer details, and her years of experience as a traveler and outdoor enthusiast to determine the best collapsible water bottles. 

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Under $50 Scores: This Hydro Flask kids water bottle is easy to hold and perfect for travel

Content is created by CNN Underscored’s team of editors who work independently from the CNN newsroom. When you buy through links on our site, CNN and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Learn more

As any seasoned traveler knows, reusable water bottles are an essential piece of travel gear for just about any trip, be it a backpacking adventure , a week-long cruise or a weekend road trip . Not only are water bottles handy but they save money and reduce plastic waste. That said, not all water bottles are created equal.

I often see kids carrying around adult-sized water bottles or pint-sized versions of these bottles, but kids have different needs than adults. Fortunately, Hydro Flask makes an amazing kids water bottle that is insulated, easy to hold, dishwasher-safe and comes in fun colors that kids love.

My 7-year-old niece has been using this bottle for two years at home, in school and when traveling. It’s as well-traveled as she is, having visited Wisconsin, New York, Florida, Illinois and Indiana (twice). Plus, it’s available in numerous colors and can even be engraved with your kiddo’s name.

Hydro Flask 12-Ounce Kids Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

This stainless steel water bottle is intended for kids ages 3+ but it works for older kids and adults too. It has an easy-sip straw cap, a handy finger loop for easy holding and a perforated bottle “boot” to protect it from falls. It keeps drinks cold up to 24 hours and it’s BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.

$22 at Hydro Flask

How I found the Hydro Flask Kids Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

My mother has advanced Parkinson’s and struggles with holding, tipping and drinking out of cups. It’s much easier for her to drink out of a straw, yet she often drops cups, so I set out to find a small and easy-to-hold water bottle with a straw that can handle being dropped and not leak water when turned on its side.

I’ve been a huge fan of Hydro Flask for years, and my favorite bottle is its Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide-Mouth Trail Series bottle. It’s traveled to countless countries with me, and I love it so much that I wrote an entire review about it .

Enter the Hydro Flask Kids Wide Mouth Water Bottle. It ticked all the boxes, plus it’s BPA free, dishwasher-safe and its insulated steel keeps drinks cold for an entire day. We bought three of these bottles so my niece could start using it as well.

As a budding young traveler, my niece has visited half a dozen states over the past two years, and this water bottle has gone right along with her. It easily fits into our luggage , but she often stashes it in her carry-on backpack or in her car seat’s cup holder during road trips.

Why the Hydro Flask Kids Wide-Mouth Water Bottle is a score

We use this water bottle nearly every single day, and after two years, it’s still going just as strong as it did the day we got it. It accompanies my niece to school, daycare and playgrounds, and on hikes and vacations. Sure, it’s a bit pricier than most water bottles, but we have gotten more than our money’s worth from it, and we expect it to last many more years.

Though the bottle is not marketed as being leakproof, we’ve found that it is largely leakproof, assuming the cap is tightly twisted on and the sip-straw pushed down flat. My niece usually keeps it upright in her backpack’s water bottle pocket, but it’s found its way to the bottom of the main compartment on more than one occasion without getting anything else wet.

We recently took a family road trip to Indianapolis to watch the solar eclipse, and this bottle came along for the ride. It joined my niece at the Eiteljorg Museum , the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the Indianapolis Zoo as well as during the eclipse itself. It sat in her car seat’s cup holder during the five-hour drive, and she sipped out of it at the hotel and restaurants because it’s prettier and more fun than boring old glasses.

Whether you’re looking for a dedicated travel water bottle for little ones or an amazing all-around bottle, you can’t go wrong with the Hydro Flask Kids Wide-Mouth Water Bottle.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards  CNN Underscored Money  chose as the  best travel credit cards  currently available.

Note: The prices above reflect the retailers' listed price at the time of publication.

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Brita's Popular Filtering Water Bottle Is Just $14 Right Now

Shopping Writer, HuffPost

HuffPost and its publishing partners may receive a commission from some purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently curated by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.

This leakproof, filtering Brita water bottle is a real winner among water bottles — and it’s on sale right now for just $14 at Walmart . (The retailer doesn’t advertise an original price, but it’s listed for $23.99 on Brita’s site and with an original price of $22.99 at Amazon .)

The bottle’s built-in filter ensures you can have tip-top quality water anywhere, without having to go through steps like using an external filter before adding it to your bottle. You can add water directly from the tap and enjoy filtered water straight away. The replaceable filter is ingeniously stored inside the straw, so you don’t even waste any precious capacity your bottle. The filter will also make your water taste and smell better — most notably, less like chlorine.

Plus, the bottle lid is leakproof, and the filter also makes it a great option for traveling , so you don’t have to spend extra money on disposable water bottles to get clean water. (In fact, Brita says this can replace up to 1,800 single-use plastic water bottles per year.)

Another reason I’m majorly impressed by the Brita water bottle? It’s sleek, despite holding 26 ounces of water. It’s thin enough to fit into backpacks and cup holders, making it more practical than bulky water bottles that provide hydration but are more difficult to transport with ease since they don’t fit into standard holders or sleeves.

An added bonus: It’s dishwasher-safe on the top shelf, too, so you don’t have to worry about hand-washing it. I’m convinced this would make a great last-minute Mother’s Day gift , since it’ll arrive before Mother’s Day if you order soon.

Brita recommends that you switch the filter out after 40 gallons of water, or which is approximately two months of regular use. You can find replacement filters on Amazon . Brita’s 10-cup filter pitcher is on sale right now , too, in case you are in the market for an at-home filter.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best personal item bags, tested & reviewed.

Find your best carry-on companion with our top editor picks.

The Best Personal Item Bags

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

When you're traveling on an airplane, there are certain items like your wallet, phone, passport, medications and earbuds that you always want to keep close. These are the items you'll want to pack in your personal item bag, along with other in-flight comfort items or perhaps a few souvenirs you're bringing home with you. When it comes to a personal item, there are many options that could be right for you, though keep in mind what airlines will allow can vary.

What size is a personal item bag?

This item can be a purse , bag or backpack that easily fits under the seat in front of you. For most domestic airlines, your personal item should be 18 x 14 x 8 inches or smaller. Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag that goes into the overhead bin and one personal item bag that can be stowed under the seat. For both carry-on and personal item bags, it's important to check your airline's carry-on luggage size requirements and policies.

To help you decide what personal item bag meets your needs, our editors shared their go-to bags they personally use when traveling by air.

Best Foldable: Longchamp Le Pliage Large Tote

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hip Pack: Cotopaxi Kapai 1.5L Hip Pack

Best tote: everlane the recycled nylon tote, best backpack: away the everywhere zip backpack, best organization: nomad lane bento bag, best washable: steve madden quilted weekender bag, best laptop backpack: fila argus 5 laptop backpack, best for adventure travel: osprey nebula 32, best affordable: gorilla wear duncan backpack, best duffel: lipault city plume 24h bag 2.0.

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. Dimensions of personal item bags are height by width by depth.)

Nicola Wood | U.S. News

Price: $155 or less

Travelers will frequently spot this classic tote at airports and hotels around the world for good reason. It folds up easily for storage when not in use, and it has a roomy main compartment with a small interior pocket for a phone, boarding pass and a cardholder. Longchamp's Le Pliage Large tote is made of the brand's durable water-resistant nylon and finished with its signature embossed leather trim.

What our editors say:

I love traveling with my Longchamp Le Pliage tote. It's big enough to hold a laptop and all other essentials, and it has both a zipper and a snap-close leather flap, so you won't have to worry about anything falling out during travel. It is versatile enough to use throughout your vacation as a handbag, or you can fold it up and store it away once you reach your destination. The Le Pliage tote is made of nylon, so it is water-resistant and easy to wipe clean after traveling. There is a small interior pocket that can hold a boarding pass, phone or cardholder, or you can pop in a separate organizer from Amazon for multiple interior compartments. The Le Pliage tote comes in a variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $30 or less

If you're looking to travel light and maximize leg space, this Cotopaxi hip pack is ideal. Strap it around your waist or shoulder for hands-free travel, and reach your wallet or passport quickly. There's a spacious main compartment for your phone, wallet and boarding pass. Plus, a front zippered compartment can hold things like gum or earbuds. Constructed of 100% fabric scraps, each hip pack is sustainable and one-of-a-kind.

My top priority when traveling by plane is ample leg room, so Cotopaxi fanny packs are the perfect under-the-seat choice. I like the smaller Kapai 1.5 L Hip Pack for storing my essentials on shorter flights: phone, wallet, tissues, lip balm and earbuds. (There's also a 3L version .) For longer flights, the larger Allpa X 4L Hip Pack can fit a lot more, including a small book, Nintendo Switch and snack. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $85 or less

This versatile tote is constructed with recycled nylon, which makes it easy to clean as well as sustainable. The padded bottom helps to protect your laptop and other contents. The main compartment has a zippered pocket and a 13-inch laptop sleeve. You can carry the bag with its tote straps or over the shoulder, and there's an exterior slip pocket for small items.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it's structured, but also easily pliable when it's time to stow it underneath my seat. The exterior pocket allows for easy access to small items like earbuds and hand sanitizer, and the larger main compartment is roomy enough for my laptop, 32-ounce water bottle, snacks, a small toiletry bag and a book. I also appreciate its sleek simplicity and sustainable materials. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $195 or less

This backpack from Away has a variety of interior and exterior pockets, including a padded laptop sleeve with a magnetic locking zipper, an interior mesh pocket for a small water bottle and two external hidden pockets. It has a versatile design that works for trips to the office, day tours and leisure trips. For carrying options, the backpack has comfortable padded shoulder straps and a trolley sleeve to secure it to your favorite carry-on bag.

For my personal item, I'm all about function over fashion and this bag manages to hit both marks. I especially love the interior key clip – I actually use it for my wallet so I easily find my ID and credit card and not risk losing them. – Amanda Norcross , Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Price: $298 or less

The Nomad Lane Bento Bag has a sleek and professional look that makes it work for both personal and business travel, especially with the 16-inch padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the top. It comes with a toiletries pouch and an electronics organizer that tuck inside two exterior pockets, so you can easily remove them at security. The bag has a variety of organizational pockets, including a trolley sleeve that converts into a pocket. It works well as a personal item bag, and can be used as a weekender bag if you're a light packer.

The Bento Bag is truly exceptional for organization. Not only can it fit a ton for its size, but I love how it also keeps my belongings separated and neat while still easy to access on the go. When I travel with it, the bag is comfortable to carry and fits under the seat in front of me with no issue. I also just appreciate how sophisticated it looks. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: From $59.98

This timeless design has sturdy straps to comfortably carry the bag through airports and more. It's affordable, durable and machine washable. The interior compartment can accommodate everything from a toiletry bag to souvenirs, yet it still fits under the seat with a comfortable amount of room for your feet.

I've used this Steve Madden Quilted Weekender Bag as my personal item for years. I love the soft-sided design of this bag and it can fit an impressive amount. There's also an interior zippered pocket and two smaller open pockets for organization. Typically, I'll pack my laptop, various chargers, one to two books, an extra set of clothes and shoes, my wallet, my makeup bag, AirPods, snacks, a water bottle, and my phone. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Suzanne Mason | U.S. News

Price: $70 or less

Perfect as a work, gym or travel bag, this durable backpack has multiple pockets to keep everything organized wherever you roam. The budget-friendly backpack has a spacious main compartment with an internal mesh pocket and a separate 15-inch laptop compartment. Its padded straps provide comfort while carrying the bag for long periods of time, and the front zippered compartment is ideal for a boarding pass, pen or phone.

I love my Fila Argus 5 Laptop Backpack. I use it for both travel and for work. The backpack has a pocket in the back separating the main space in the back. I usually carry my iPad or laptop there and use the rest of the space to carry any items I couldn't fit in my luggage or trinkets that I'm bringing back for souvenirs. The front pocket I love because it's a zippered space where I can put my important traveling documents and other miscellaneous items needed for my travels. The backpack straps are wide and padded making it comfortable to wear on my back. The backpack is small enough to fit under a plane seat if you need to access the bag while in flight. – Suzanne Mason , Editor

Zach Watson | U.S. News

Price: $140 or less

This spacious backpack offers the design features of a more technical backpack − like a removable webbing belt along with top and bottom compression straps − but with an emphasis on everyday needs. There are numerous interior pockets to keep all of your travel essentials securely stowed, a TSA-approved laptop sleeve and a front zippered organization pocket. The exterior has two deep, adjustable side pockets that can fit two Nalgene-size water bottles. The Osprey Nebula 32 features two padded straps and a breathable back to help make carrying the bag more comfortable, even in humid climates.

My Osprey Nebula 32 is in the running for my oldest personal possession; I've used it for over a decade. That means this Nebula pack started as a college backpack, lugging my textbooks between classes in Chicago snowstorms before joining me in Washington, D.C., where it kept my belongings safe on my humid (and occasionally rainy) bike commutes. Now, I primarily use my backpack for hiking and flying, and it still holds up remarkably well despite my regular mistreatment. I don't intend to replace my go-to personal item anytime soon, so this Osprey backpack has absolutely justified its admittedly high upfront cost. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Alissa Grisler | U.S. News

Price: $59.99 or less

Durable and ideal for everyday use or adventures afar, this backpack has a simple design with plenty of packing space. The spacious interior can hold a lot, including your toiletry bag, reading material, change of clothes and more. The laptop sleeve and variety of compartments help to keep items organized and in place. The exterior offers adjustable padded shoulder straps and a waist strap for comfort, a headphone opening, two mesh pockets and a front zippered compartment.

When purchasing a bag, I am looking for something that is durable and multifunctional. With its many storage compartments and large carrying capacity (perfect for the chronic over-packer or anyone who just can't say no to a souvenir), this bag is perfect for both travel and everyday use. – Alissa Grisler , Editor

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $135 or less

Lightweight and constructed with water repellent nylon, this bag is durable, yet sophisticated. There are two large front pockets for smaller items like a 3-1-1 bag, headphones, wipes and small travel essentials, plus a side pocket for a water bottle or small items. Inside, the spacious interior compartment has a large zippered pocket, two slip pockets and a mesh pocket for keeping things organized, in addition to room for a toiletry bag, in-flight needs and souvenirs you find along the way. The bag features a separate zippered laptop compartment on the back, along with a trolley sleeve to attach it to your carry-on bag, like the coordinating Plume Cabin Size Spinner . What's more, it folds flat to save space when not in use.

I bought my original Lipault City Plume bag for my first trip to Europe over a decade ago. It's been a top pick for my travels for years, and it still looks and works great. The updated City Plume 24H Bag 2.0 is beautifully constructed, stays looking great even through the rigors of travel, fits perfectly under the seat and holds a lot. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Rachael Hood strives to be a carry-on only traveler. Over the years she's tested a variety of bags from multiple brands at an array of prices. To curate this article, she asked her team of editors to share their favorite personal item bags that have worked for all types of travel scenarios.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Checked Luggage, Tested by Editors
• The Best Travel Accessories, Chosen by Our Editors
• What to Pack in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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