Camping is perhaps one of the most exciting ways to get away from it all. Since I enjoy the great outdoors, camping is something that I regularly do. And when talking about camping, we also have to talk about its gear. Today, I want to specifically talk about water bottles for camping. They make a world of difference between a miserable and a wonderful camping trip. By having a proper one, you can keep yourself hydrated even when you’re in the woods. And unlike the low-quality ones, the bottles below, which I have tested, won’t alter the taste of your beverage. Since there are countless choices on the market, it can be tough to decide which one you should get. That’s why I’m here to help. Take a look at my picks below and have fun choosing your favorite!
Table of contents
- H2O Capsule Water Bottle
- Corkcicle Classic Canteen
- GRAYL GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle
- Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle
- Ocean Bottle Recycled Water Bottle
- Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle
- Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle
- ThermoFlask Double-Wall Insulated Water Bottle
- YETI Rambler
- CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle
- Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle
- Nalgene Wide Mouth Water Bottle
- Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Straw Lid
- Our Verdict!
- How to Choose the Best Water Bottles for Camping
- Why do we need water bottles for camping?
- Are Hydroflasks good for camping?
- Why are Nalgene bottles good for camping?
H2O Capsule Water Bottle
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Kicking off this list is none other than the H2O Capsule Water Bottle. There are so many things to like about this thing, but its biggest selling point is none other than its sleeve! The protective sleeve can also be used to store your phone, key, and other small valuables. This is a really smart feature, especially when you want to keep your stuff clean and away from the ground.
Also, can we talk about the elephant in the room? This is the biggest water bottle on this list. Its 2.2L capacity means you’ll stay hydrated the whole day without having to refill the bottle. Plus, this new variant is made from thicker plastic, making it more durable. Best of all, it’s more affordable than many of its similarly-sized competitors!
Pros
- This is a nice option for those who drink a lot.
- It’s available in various colors and designs.
- Despite being affordable, it’s also durable.
Cons
- It’s big and bulky.
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Corkcicle Classic Canteen
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The chic Corkcicle Classic Canteen is another favorite of mine. I have this bottle at home and it’s one of my go-to bottles. For me, the 25 oz variant isn’t too big or too small. It’s perfect to keep me hydrated even if I decide to go camping. Better yet, I find it to be easy to drink from and after using it for almost a year, it never leaks, not even once.
After seeing its butter-smooth exterior, you may think that it’s slippery. On the contrary, this bottle is easy to hold and pretty grippy. I’m also able to keep it in most cup holders. Another thing that I love is its non-slip bottom. Made from silicone, the bottom does a good job of preventing the bottle from falling.
Pros
- It’s available in multiple colors and designs.
- A versatile option that can keep drinks hot and cold.
- It’s lightweight and comfortable to hold.
Cons
- There’s no carrying handle.
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GRAYL GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle
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Best Water Purifier. Thinking of getting a portable water purifier? Why not take a look at the GRAYL GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle? This is the perfect bottle to help you remove bacteria and viruses from various water sources. It’s a versatile option that’s not only great for camping but also for hiking, traveling, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
I was lucky enough to be able to use and test this water filter bottle, and I was truly impressed. I’m sure everyone can use it without problems. All you have to do is to fill the bottle with water, insert the filter, and press down on the plunger. Better yet, it can filter 24 oz of water in less than 10 seconds. This is considered fast if you compare it to other similar bottles.
Pros
- This bottle can be cleaned easily.
- It’s durable and leakproof.
- There are many colors to choose from.
Cons
- It can be a bit heavy when fully filled with water.
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Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle
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With over 20,000 positive reviews on Amazon, it’s easy to see why the Owala FreeSip Insulated Water Bottle is a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. This is a great choice for those who love to keep their drinks cold. That’s because it’s designed to maintain the temperature of your icy beverage for up to 24 hours. Also, with a wide mouth and built-in straw, you can drink however you like.
During testing, it was proven that the cap is tight and leakproof. I also love the fact that this bottle is dishwasher-safe, which can save you time and energy. The one that I tested was the 24 oz variant, and it worked well with my backpack. But if you need something bigger, it’s also available in 32 and 40-oz variants. For more similar products, check out these best bottles for keeping water cold!
Pros
- The push-button lid comes with a leakproof seal.
- It’s available in a variety of colorways.
- It’s BPA and phthalate-free.
Cons
- Not suitable for hot drinks.
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Ocean Bottle Recycled Water Bottle
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Best Sustainable. If you want to take part in keeping the Earth a better place, you can start by using eco-friendly water bottles. Say hello to the Ocean Bottle Recycled Water Bottle. As the name suggests, this camping water bottle is environmentally-friendly. It’s made from ocean-bound plastic as well as recycled stainless steel. And once you don’t plan on using it anymore, you can simply recycle it again.
Also, can we take a moment to appreciate its beautiful design? It’s sleek, minimalist, and available in a wide array of attractive colors. It’s not just an eye candy, though. During testing, it did a good job of keeping my drink hot for hours. Also, the cap is versatile. You can unscrew it and have a quick sip or use it as a cup.
Pros
- Keeping this eco-friendly water bottle clean is easy as it’s dishwasher-safe.
- It’s BPA-free and it doesn’t leave any aftertaste.
- It’s lightweight and comfortable to hold.
Cons
- Though pretty, it’s also pricey.
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Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle
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Best Collapsible. Looking for something that can be rolled easily and won’t take up too much space in your camping backpack? Enter the Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle. I was thrilled when I first found out about this product. During testing, I was able to roll it up easily and to the point where it looked like a small pouch. This is possible because of its silicone material, which amazingly won’t leave any weird aftertaste.
Some people may wonder whether this water bottle is durable. Luckily, considering its design, it’s long-lasting! Though I don’t have the chance to use it regularly, some people have said that it has great longevity. Last but not least, this water bottle is leakproof. Pretty amazing, isn’t it?
Pros
- There are five different colors to choose from.
- The silicone body is squeezable and shatterproof.
- It comes with a grip sleeve for better stability.
Cons
- It’s not insulated.
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Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle
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Among all of the options out there, the Healthy Human Stainless Steel Water Bottle has to be one of the most stunning ones. Just take a look at the picture below! This bottle is available in a vast array of attractive designs, which surely will turn heads no matter where you go. I also think this is an ideal choice for camping as it can keep your drink cool for hours.
With a wide opening, this steel water bottle is easy to drink even when you’re walking. It also allows you to put in some ice cubes without struggling. During testing, I found the big handle to be comfortable to hold. I also had the chance to try its leakproof property. Even after being dropped three times, the cap remained in place and stayed leakproof.
Pros
- It’s available in five different sizes.
- This bottle is sweat-free and easy to grip.
- It never leaves any weird taste.
Cons
- The durability of the body can be improved.
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ThermoFlask Double-Wall Insulated Water Bottle
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The ThermoFlask Double-Wall Insulated Water Bottle is something that everyone can use. For one, it fits most cup holders, which is a huge plus. In addition to that, this vacuum-insulated bottle comes with a convenient handle for easy carrying. Weighing 0.88 lb, it’s also super lightweight. Design-wise, this bottle truly can’t get any better.
As I said earlier, this bottle is insulated. Like many others, it can keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. Apart from that, it’s also leakproof. During testing, I tried shaking the bottle vigorously, but not even a single drop of water was found. Best of all, this bottle comes with two different lids, which include a chug cap and a straw lid. For more reviews about this bottle, visit its official product page!
Pros
- This bottle is available in various sizes and colors.
- The body is sweat-free even after being filled with cold water.
- It has over 48,000 reviews on Amazon.
Cons
- The bigger variants are too big for standard backpacks and cup holders.
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YETI Rambler
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Best Premium. If you’re okay with spending more and want something super durable, the YETI Rambler is for you. With an 18/8 stainless steel construction, this water bottle is resistant to any kind of impact. I’ve tried damaging this bottle in various ways and it showed zero sign of impact. In addition to that, with double-wall vacuum insulation, it can keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours.
Are you a large drinker? If so, you’ll love the wide-mouth cap. Speaking of which, the cap is also easy to open and close with one hand. I could even open the cap when I was wearing gloves. The one I tested was the 26 oz variant. Aside from that, it’s also available in many other sizes as well as colors to choose from.
Pros
- The color of the bottle will stay the same even after being used for years.
- Its durability is unmatched.
- It’s BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.
Cons
- This bottle is slightly heavy.
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CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle
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Perfect for camping and everyday use, the CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle is one of my favorites. This is a lightweight yet durable bottle that everyone can rely on. The BPA-free bottle is made from Tritan Renew, which is an exceptionally durable and lightweight plastic made with 50% recycled material. I love the fact that I can get an environmentally-friendly and long-lasting bottle without spending too much.
Chute Mag’s universal magnetic cap is also worth the praise. It’s leakproof and stows securely out of the way when drinking. I also find the built-in carrying handle to be very useful. During testing, I was able to transport this featherlight bottle with ease even when it was filled with water. Also, the ergonomic spout allowed me to drink without spillage!
Pros
- Unlike some of its competitors, this bottle is dishwasher-safe.
- I love its trendy design.
- The body of this bottle is slip-resistant.
Cons
- The 20 oz size isn’t big enough for some people.
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Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle
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Best Insulation. Need a high-quality water bottle that can keep your beverage fresh without breaking your wallet? Take a look at the Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle! With double-wall vacuum insulation, this bottle can keep your drink hot for up to 12 hours and cold for the whole day. During testing, I filled the bottle with my coffee, and it was able to stay hot for four hours before I couldn’t help but finish the coffee!
Apart from the amazing insulation, it also comes with a leakproof spout lid. I’m a huge fan of this design, as it lets anyone drink with one hand easily. Speaking of the design, this water bottle is also lightweight and easy to carry. After all, it’s only 1 lb. Also, it fits in most cup holders, making it a nice option for those who are on the go.
Pros
- The stainless steel construction is durable.
- There are so many beautiful colors to choose from. For the complete collection, click here!
- Despite its premium features, it’s still affordable.
Cons
- It’s not dishwasher safe.
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Nalgene Wide Mouth Water Bottle
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Best Value for Money. Considering what it offers and its ridiculously affordable price tag, adding the Nalgene Wide Mouth Water Bottle to this list is a must. It’s a classic and durable option that has been around for a long time and surely won’t be going anywhere. Though cheap, I love the material of this bottle. It’s made from BPA-free Tritan plastic. For those who aren’t familiar with this material, it’s virtually indestructible. I’ve tried dropping it from various heights and it could withstand all of the drops.
Additionally, I like the wide mouth, which makes it super easy to fill and clean the bottle. Thanks to the loop lid, carrying it around is also a breeze. In case you’re wondering, this bottle is available in various colors, so you can find one that perfectly matches your style. You may not get the impressive ice and heat retention from more expensive models, but you don’t have to pay for that extra cost either. By the way, this bottle is also featured on the list of the best water bottles for backpacking and hiking.
Pros
- It’s a simple water bottle that does its job perfectly.
- A versatile option that can be used for many outdoor activities.
- Probably the best water bottle under 20 USD.
Cons
- It’s not insulated.
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Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Straw Lid
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Best Overall. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, I’m sure you’ve heard of Hydro Flask. It’s one of the most reputable brands when it comes to water bottles. On this list is the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Straw Lid, which has gained over 45,000 fantastic reviews on Amazon. One of my favorite features about this bottle is none other than the straw lid. I have this bottle at home, and with the straw lid, I never have to open the lid to keep myself hydrated. For me, it’s a convenient and hygienic way to drink, especially when camping.
“Though this bottle is a little pricey, everything it offers is certainly worth the investment. I’m a huge fan of this bottle and have been using it for years. Whether it’s for camping or work, I know it always has my back.”
WOW Travel
Another feature that makes this bottle a favorite among campers is the TempShield technology. It can keep your drink cold for the whole day and hot for up to 12 hours. Aside from the awesome insulation, the wide opening makes cleaning the bottle a breeze. Plus, there’s a handle that allows you to carry the bottle around conveniently. Best of all, this durable bottle is available in a bunch of different shades and sizes. Have a closer look at this bottle by watching this review video!
Pros
- This water bottle fits most backcountry water filters.
- It’s BPA-free.
- It’s among the most durable options on the market.
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey for some people.
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Our Verdict!
The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Straw Lid is arguably the best overall option on this list. It has amazing insulation, it’s extremely versatile, and its durability is among the best. However, it doesn’t mean the rest aren’t worth considering. Below are some of the best options according to their respective criteria:
- Best Value for Money: Nalgene Wide Mouth Water Bottle
- Best Insulation: Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle
- Best Premium: YETI Rambler
- Best Collapsible: Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle
- Best Sustainable: Ocean Bottle Recycled Water Bottle
- Best Water Purifier: GRAYL GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle
How to Choose the Best Water Bottles for Camping
With so many options on the market, knowing which bottle to get can be pretty challenging. That’s why you should check out the tops below so you can get the best one.
Material
Water bottles are usually made from plastic or stainless steel. Stainless steel bottles tend to be more durable, but heavier and more expensive compared to others. Some stainless-steel bottles resist odors and water, but low-quality ones may have a taste of metal. On the other hand, plastic bottles are lighter and cheaper. Some plastics are made of food-grade silicone and co-polyester, which make them chemical and odor-free.
Insulation
If you love to have your water hot or cold, you’ll want your water bottle to have a certain degree of insulation. Most insulated water bottles are stainless steel and double-walled. A good insulated bottle usually can keep your beverage hot for up to 12 hours and cold for up to 24 hours.
Opening
Should you go with a bottle with a narrow mouth or a wide mouth? There’s no right or wrong because everyone has their own preferences. Wide-mouth bottles allow you to fill and refill the bottle easily, and you can also add some ice cubes without any problems. Meanwhile, narrow-mouth bottles are normally easier to drink from, especially when you’re on the go.
Capacity
Small bottles are easy to carry, and you can keep them in your backpack’s side pocket. However, this also means you need to refill them more often. Large bottles offer more capacity, so you’ll only need to refill them occasionally. However, they may be heavier.
Why do we need water bottles for camping?
Staying hydrated is essential for staying healthy and safe while camping. That’s because dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, muscle cramps, and even heat stroke. A water bottle allows you to carry your own water with you so you can stay hydrated.
Are Hydroflasks good for camping?
Of course! Since they’re insulated, you can enjoy your drink cold or hot even when you’re camping.
Why are Nalgene bottles good for camping?
That’s because it’s durable, lightweight, and easy to clean. Not to mention, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg.