Best Water Storage Containers For 2023

We’re in search of the best water storage containers for 2023. So much has happened over the past two years, that preparing for an emergency seems like it’s a part of life for everyone these days.  

So, before you head out and buy a water storage container, let our guide help you find the best solution for all your water-prepping needs. 

We’re looking at the top six water storage containers for 2023. In addition, we’re diving into what you should consider before your purchase, how to safely store water, and where to find water in an emergency. 

So, grab your hose pipe and get ready to dive into the world of water storage containers. 

 

The Top Six Water Storage Containers For 2023

1. 35 Gallon Water Storage Tank— WaterPrepared

Price: $229.99

The 35-gallon utility tank from WaterPrepared is the best water storage for outdoor adventures. It features:

• A brass spigot

• Built-in handles

• Slots for trailer straps

The dimensions of 20.25" x 22.5" x 30" make this 35-gallon water tank easy to transport with the help of the built-in handles. 

Plus, the tank cap is joined onto the tank, making it easy to open and close. The brass hose spigot also makes it easy to get water quickly. When you’re in an emergency or out camping, the last thing you want to do is lift the entire water container to get your water. The spigot keeps things stress-free and simple.

The tie-down grooves also make the 35 Gallon Utility Tank from WaterPrepared safe and easy to transport. You can tie it down within the home if you’re using it for emergencies, so no need to worry about your water container rolling away. 

You can expect your water tank within three to ten days from the date of purchase. Shipping may cost extra because of the size, but we’ll calculate that for you at checkout. But if you’re in the Salt Lake City, Utah area, feel free to pick up your order directly. 

If you’re worrying about materials, don’t! This tank is made from FDA food-grade materials with the plastic being totally BPA-free. The one-year limited warranty is also super helpful to ensure you’re buying a product you can truly rely on. 

2. 55 Gallon Water Storage Tank — WaterPrepared

Price: $299.99

This 55-gallon water storage tank from WaterPrepared will have you prepared for any emergency. They are made in the US and made with FDA food-grade materials!

The tank is made from a blended UV-resistant plastic that helps to keep water protected from any bacteria build-up. So, if you rotate your water (we’ll get to that shortly), you should be all set for any unforeseen water needs. 

On top of that the water storage container is made with a BPA-free high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that is approved by the FDA. The tank is engineered to take on hundreds of pounds of pressure for over ten years. This means you can rest assured you’ve bought the perfect water storage solution in terms of quality. 

The 55-gallon water storage tank from WaterPrepared has pre-installed spigots that you can connect directly to your hose. There are also center and front valves to make getting water easy. 

Plus, these are stackable containers, so you can grow your emergency water storage as you need it, without taking up more floor space. 

The tank has a lid, allowing you to swap out water quickly and easily. No need to stand for hours waiting for the water to drain out. Simply dump it out, and get fresh water. You can also access your water easily to give it the right chemicals to keep it drinkable. 

3. 160 Gallon Water Storage Tank — WaterPrepared

Price: $499.95

This 29" x 36" x 45" 160-gallon water storage tank is the perfect option for larger families or for one person looking to have a water supply for about half a year. 

This tank is great if you’ve got space in your garage or garden. If you need to store it outside, don’t stress, the plastic is UV-resistant, allowing you to keep your water fresh even when it’s been in the sun!

There is a standard hose spigot that makes refilling your tank super easy. The large tank cap also helps with rotating your water when necessary. 

The plastic is BPA-free and made with FDA food-grade materials. Additionally, the plastic is rugged high-density polyethylene material which means the tank can go through a lot without breaking. So, if you’re moving or plan to travel, no need to worry about your tanks not making the trip. 

Plus, with the stackable design, you can place the tanks side by side or one on top of the other. This allows you to save a lot of floor space while having all the emergency water tank space needed. If you live in a smaller space, don’t stress, the tanks are made to get through a standard doorway with no issues. 

WaterPrepared is all about manufacturing the best. To prevent contamination, the company uses vacuum drills. This prevents plastic shavings from making their way into your drinking water. But the materials are light so will simply float to the top once filled. If you are worried, simply scrape or vacuum them out. 

The plastic may also come with a smell but this won’t affect your water safety at all. It’s merely the scent of new plastic. You can air the tank out by leaving it open for 24 hours once delivered. 

4. 260 Gallon Water Storage Tank — SureWater

Price: $649.99

This 260-gallon water tank from SureWater is assembled and made in the USA. It stands at 28.75" x 32.25" x 86.25” with an oblong shape that makes it better for storing in terms of floor space. 

Empty, the tank is 75 lbs, something to consider if you’ll be placing the tank by yourself. Full, the tank weighs a whopping 2,245 lbs. So definitely not the right tank if you’re planning on traveling. 

But don’t worry, the water storage tank is made to fit through standard doorways. You won’t need to make special arrangements to get it into your home. But you should consider where you’ll place the tank. It needs somewhere sturdy like a solid piece of ground outside or concrete flooring inside. 

Luckily, the 260 Gallon Water Storage Tank from SureWater comes with a standard garden hose brass spigot which makes it easy to fill and rotate when necessary. The brass is integrated into the tank, reducing the chance of leaking. It’s also a lot cleaner than plastic fittings which can accumulate mold.

Plus, these large water storage containers are made from BPA-free food-grade high-density polyethylene material, so you know it is safe and built to last. It’s also suitable for storing water outdoors with UV-resistant plastic. 

5. 500 Gallon Water Storage Tank — SureWater

Price: $1,199.99

The 500 Gallon Water Storage Tank By SureWater is one of the best emergency water storage options. You can store a massive 500 gallons of water which is enough to keep one person hydrated for up to 500 days!

Even though it’s massive, don’t worry, the oblong shape allows this water tank to fit through a standard doorway. So, no stress if you’re planning to put it inside your home or garage. 

This 500-gallon water container is made with blended UV-resistant plastic to keep your water drinkable, even if it’s getting some sun. 

You might be worried about getting water in and out of this tank. But have no fear, the standard garden hose spigot and big tank cap make filling and emptying it incredibly easy.

This water container weighs 160 lbs empty, but it's around 4,330 lbs when full. So something to note when considering where to place your new water storage.

6. 1,500 Gallon Water Tank—WaterSupply

Price: $1,499.99

If you’re looking for the ultimate emergency water storage, you’ve found it. The 1,500-gallon water tank from WaterSupply is the biggest tank on our list, carrying three times as much water as the second largest. 

This water tank is for those who want to take their emergency water supply seriously. You never know when an emergency might hit and a drought can take a serious toll on your day-to-day life. Stocking up your water supply isn’t just about being prepared, it’s about offering you and your household safety. 

Most people are okay stocking the bare minimum, but what do you do if there isn’t water for an extended period? Drinking water is one thing, but what about sanitation? These are the things we encourage our customers to think about before buying emergency water storage solutions. 

While the size might be extreme, this 1,500-gallon tank has all the right features to ensure your water is safe. The brass spigot is integrated right into the container, allowing you to access water without any hassle. 

Filling and rotating your water is also super easy with the standard garden hose spigot. Plus, with the UV-resistant plastic, you can keep this tank outside. 

Since the tank weighs 370 lbs empty the shipping costs might be a major factor for potential customers. But don’t stress, WaterSupply Tanks has negotiated some of the best freight rates in the industry to ensure you’re getting the lowest price possible. 

Please also note that these tanks are made to order to ensure customers get the best product. This is not mass-produced with WaterSupply Tanks taking special care to deliver products that are safe and reliable. Because of this, you might need to wait a week or two for your order to be completed. 

 

How To Choose The Best Water Storage Containers

Before you buy water storage tanks there are quite a few things to consider. It’s not as simple as getting water containers that take enough water.

Size

The size of your water containers will be based on two factors. Firstly, the amount of water you need. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends saving at least one gallon of water per person per day. You should store enough for two weeks or longer if you can. 

However, this might be more if you need water for:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers

• Older individuals

• People with poor health

• Pets

The amount of water can also go up if you live in a hotter climate. If you’re in a true emergency, people in your home may need to head out in search of better shelter or help. Those that are highly active are going to need a lot more water to keep hydrated if they’re in a hotter climate. 

Additionally, if you’ve got furry pals they can become dehydrated extremely quickly. This is more true if they're stressed, which is quite likely in an emergency. 

The second consideration in terms of the sizes of water tanks is how much space you have for your water storage. If you live in an apartment you might need to get a little creative. That’s where stackable containers come in handy. 

If you’ve got adequate space for a large container then you need to consider where you’ll place your water storage. It’s best to keep them in a dark and dry area, but this isn’t an option for most, so outside on a sturdy piece of ground will have to do. 

Regardless, you need to establish where you can store water that is easy to get to and gives you the option to rotate the water when necessary. 

Purpose

You should also consider the purpose of your water storage. Is it purely to use in an emergency or will you use it in your everyday life? 

For example, lots of our customers use our water storage solutions to save water. So, they’ll collect rainwater and use it for non-potable uses like watering the garden. 

The purpose of your water storage should help you decide what kind of water container you need. If it’s for outside use, a larger container will probably work best. Inside stackable containers for drinking water could have a smaller layout, making them easy to transport when necessary. 

Luckily, there are so many options when it comes to types of water tanks that the options are pretty endless. Whatever its purpose, there is a water container suitable for your needs. 

Material

The material of your water storage container is one of the most important factors to consider. Most water containers are made from food-grade plastic like high-density polyethylene material which is perfect. It is durable, lightweight, and often has a UV-resistant grade coating to make water containers suitable for outside storage. 

Other materials like metal and glass can work, but we wouldn’t recommend them. Glass is not durable, so if there’s a chance of any shifting or the ground moving your water storage is gone. 

Metal, on the other hand, is durable. However, contaminants can make their way into your water from the metal, making the container unsafe for drinking. There’s also the chance of rust, which is likely considering emergency water often sits for long periods. 

Durability

You want to ensure that your water storage container can withstand any external pressures. This can be from sunlight, getting knocked around, or even fluctuations in temperature. 

This is another reason plastic is the most popular material for water storage. The right grade of plastic ensures that UV exposure and heat fluctuations won’t affect the strength of the water container. 

For example, the water containers from WaterSupply Tanks can handle temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you think the temperature might go down significantly it’s best to leave a 10-inch gap at the top of your water container to prepare for expansion. 

If you’re planning to transport your water tank for things like camping and hiking you need to think of the durability of the tank as a whole. If there are handles, can they take the full weight of the container? Also, is the water container durable enough to handle being knocked around?

Ease of use

There’s no point in getting a water container that makes it near impossible to get water when you need it. You don’t want to have to lift gallons of water just to fill a glass. Firstly, it’s extremely heavy. Secondly, you’re at risk of spilling water, which in an emergency is a big no. 

Look for a water storage container that has built-in taps or spigots that make it easy to get water and fill the tank when necessary. 

Seal

One major concern when building your emergency water supply is keeping the water as fresh as possible. This can only happen if your water containers have a tight seal that doesn’t allow air in. 

The seal is also important for keeping contaminants out. Remember, if you’ve been storing the water for quite a while, the chances of dust and debris are high. The seal keeps all of that out while keeping your water fresh. 

Brand reputation

Finding water containers that fit your specific needs is important - just as important is using a container that is well-made by a brand trusted in the industry. 

Your best bet is to look at what previous customers have to say about the products in reviews. They have nothing to lose or gain by telling the truth.

 

How To Safely Store Water Containers

Here are a few helpful tips for ensuring your water remains safe while storing it:

• Use clean water: There’s no point in going through all of the above, only to store non-potable water in your container. We’ll get to how to clean water shortly. 

• Clean your containers: Most containers on our list go through an extensive cleaning process before being delivered. However, it’s always a good idea to clean the water storage containers with some water and a ⅓ cup of bleach. Swirl it around, empty it, and then replace the water. 

• Keep the water storage containers sealed: Always ensure the seal on your water storage containers is closed tightly to prevent contamination. 

• Store water in a cool dark place: Most water containers are best kept in a dark area that doesn’t get a lot of heat. It’s not a must but could help keep your water containers stronger for longer. 

• Label your water storage containers: When you replace the water be sure to label it with the date. This helps keep you stay up to date with water rotation. 

• Rotate your water supply: You should replace your water every six months if possible. Again, it’s not a must but will help keep the water as fresh as possible. 

 

How To Make Water Safe To Drink

If you’re getting your drinking water through a municipal tap, then you should be good to go. But what happens if the taps run dry? 

Here’s a guide on ways to ensure you use the best water for storage:

• Boiling water: This is a brilliant option for small batches of water. So, if you’re planning ahead, you could do a little bit each time you boil water. Simply bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute and then let it cool before decanting it into your water storage containers. 

• Water purification tablets: You can buy these tablets as is from the store. You simply add as many as instructed on the packaging and the water becomes drinkable. 

• Unscented household chlorine bleach: Household chlorine bleach is just as effective as purification tablets. You can add eight drops of bleach for every gallon of water before storing large water storage containers. 

• UV light: If you’re prepping in advance then a UV light is a fantastic way to purify drinking water. The only problem is that it requires electricity, which might be an issue in an emergency. 

 

How Long To Store Water?

Water doesn’t go off in the traditional sense. However, water can become flat, which for drinking water might affect the taste. 

It’s recommended that you rotate your water every six months to ensure your emergency water storage is as fresh as possible. 

But that doesn’t mean that if your emergency water storage has been sitting for a few years that you can’t drink it. All you need to do is clean the water again to get rid of any potential contaminants. 

Still, if you can, you should rotate your water storage fairly regularly - ideally every six months. That’s why we recommend labeling your water when you refill it, so you can keep track of when you need to do a refill. 

Still, don’t waste the water. You can use it for other things like washing dishes or watering the garden.

Please note, drinking old water is okay, but only if you have the right water containers. If the water hasn’t been sealed properly it could make you sick. And when you are sick, you risk being dehydrated, trapping you in a cycle of needing clean water!

So, if you’re unsure, be on the safe side and purify before you store water again.

 

Where To Get Water In An Emergency

If you’re in an emergency situation, the first things to fly off the shelves are bottled store water and toilet paper. If the recent global pandemic taught us anything it’s that these two products are worth their weight in gold when people are forced to stay indoors. 

What do you do if there simply isn’t water to spare? A natural disaster can easily cut off the water mains, leaving millions without this vital resource. Plus, if it’s ongoing, there’s no telling when the water might be available again. 

That’s why we recommend starting an emergency water storage because even if you live in a heavy rain area, anything can happen, leaving you without water. 

So, here are a few places to find water in an emergency:

• Bottled water: You may have to think outside the box here if the store is out of water. So try your best to find vending machines to stock up where you can. 

• Tap water: This isn’t going to do much if the taps have run dry, but at the first sign of an emergency, get those taps on to get as much water out as you can. If you’re unsure of the water source then clean the water using our suggestions above. 

• Rainwater: It’s time to grab the buckets. If it starts raining, collect as much rainwater as you can. Placing some tarp up or capturing water from the gutters can also help with water collection. Just be sure to clean the water before storing it!

• Natural sources: Water usually comes from rural areas or the wilderness. If you need to, head out of the city to find rivers, lakes, or streams. If the water is stagnant it might not be the best option, but if you’re desperate, clean the water thoroughly before drinking. 

• Melting snow: If you’re in a cold enough area, gathering snow is a good option. Once you’ve got your snow melt it and purify it. Boiling can do both at once. 

However you decide to collect water, you need to make sure it’s clean before drinking.

 

When You Might Need Water Containers

Emergencies happen, it's part of life - but what kind of situations should you be storing water for? Let's take a look.

Terrorist attacks

It’s quite easy to turn your nose up at “preppers”, but you’d be surprised at just how quickly a volatile political situation can affect major utility supplies. 

One of the quickest ways to get a government's attention is to cut off citizens' access to necessities. The first to go is always electricity and water. Terrorists can blow up major infrastructure or add biochemicals to the water supply, making it undrinkable.

Natural disasters

Earthquakes, tornadoes, polar vortexes, and tidal waves can happen in the blink of an eye. When the area you live in is badly affected there may be water shortages for extended periods because the pipes for sending you the essentials simply aren't there anymore, or the water in the pipes is frozen.

A good food-grade plastic water container could help keep you prepared for the unexpected. 

Drought

Did you know that 55 million people are affected by droughts every year? While we always think it won’t happen to us, there’s a chance that at some point water sources will be low and you won’t have what you need for sanitation and bathing, let alone drinking. 

This generally happens in rain sparse areas but with the change brought on by global warming, more areas are affected by changing weather patterns than ever before.

We all like to think the seasons changing is just one of those things, but it actually has a major effect on essential supplies. Governments don't have the infrastructure in place yet, which could have dire consequences for citizens.

Water contamination

There is no doubt that the human race is unfortunately polluting the planet. We are genuinely trying to make a difference with recycling and other initiatives, but still, it’s pretty bad. 

Now, when pollutants get into the air, one of the first things affected is water. If you think about it, whatever is in the air or being thrown away makes its way into the air and soil. This then contaminates water sources. We’re talking about pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals seeping into your water sources. 

The municipality may be forced to add more chemicals to the water to make it safe for consumption. But do you want to drink something that is so chemically altered? It might not seem like much, but if there’s a major overflow of chemicals from a farm or factory, the amount of chemicals needed to make water safe again is staggering.

A storage water container means you can avoid this and wait for the chemical levels to even out again - but be sure it's BPA-free food-grade plastic so you don't add to the problem!

Camping

Look, just because you’re living outdoors for a while doesn’t mean you can go without clean water. Not showering for a few days is fine, but you need to ensure you have enough drinkable water.

A water container allows you to keep water at the campsite and provides a good water source while on the go during hikes. 

Living off the grid

If you’re off the grid and living off the land there’s a big chance you won’t have access to a reliable water source. A well-made water storage container ensures you have a fresh supply of water for all your needs like drinking, cooking, and keeping clean.

 

FAQ

Does the color of my water storage container matter? 

Not in the way you might think. Design-wise you might want a water storage container that fits with your home aesthetic, but you only have this luxury if you’re certain the container won’t get any light. Otherwise blue is a popular color because it doesn’t allow light in, preventing algae growth. 

What is the best material for water storage?

In our book, BPA-free food-grade plastic water storage tanks made with high-density polyethylene material are the best choice. It is durable, so you know it will last. Plus, it’s lightweight, so if you have portable water storage containers you won’t be lugging around something heavy. 

What plastic is safe for storing water? 

Plastics 1, 6,3, and 7 aren’t very good for storing water. They are not as strong as plastics 2, 4, and 5. Some may also leak chemicals into your stored water, so be careful here when selecting a good container.

Can I use recyclable water storage containers? 

We understand that proper water storage containers might be a bit on the pricey side, but it’s for a very good reason. Recyclable plastic bottles are biodegradable. This means the bottles will eventually leak, or the materials will seep into the water and contaminate your water storage. 

Are stackable water containers a good option?

This depends on your personal circumstances. Stackable containers like a water storage cube are a good option if you're stuck for space but the extra weight might put more pressure on the tanks than they can hold. We recommend large water containers to even out the weight and water pressure.

 

Our Final Thoughts

Finding the best water storage containers for 2023 is tough. Not because there are too few, but because there are so many to choose from. 

If you’re looking for the best container for long-term water storage then you can’t go wrong with the 500 Gallon Water Storage Tank By SureWater. It is highly durable and is made from blended UV-resistant plastic. 

If you want something portable then the 35-gallon utility tank from WaterPrepared is ideal for water storage on the go. It features built-in handles, a brass spigot, and slots for trailer straps. 

The world of water storage containers is pretty much endless. Just remember to consider the size, ease of use, and brand reputation before making your decision. 

We hope our guide for the best storage containers helps you find the best option for your needs. 

 

Sources:

https://www.primalsurvivor.net/water-storage-containers/

https://persurvive.com/off-grid-living/best-water-storage-containers/

https://waterfilterguru.com/best-water-storage-containers/