When you think about emergency preparedness, the first thing that should come to mind is water. You can stock up on food, batteries, and flashlights, but without safe drinking water, your family’s survival is at risk. The reality is that most people underestimate how much water they actually need and end up unprepared when a crisis strikes. Choosing the right container is just as important as storing enough water because it keeps your supply clean, fresh, and ready to use when you need it most.
The good news is that water storage doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. By focusing on a few proven container options, you can build a system that works for your family, your space, and your lifestyle. Whether you live in a small apartment or a large house, there are safe, reliable ways to keep water on hand. Each type of container comes with its own benefits, so it’s smart to mix and match for both short-term convenience and long-term security. Here are five of the best containers for storing water safely.
1. Food-Grade Water Storage Barrels
Large barrels are one of the most reliable ways to store water long-term. Typically made of food-grade plastic, these barrels can hold up to 55 gallons of water, making them ideal for families who want to build a serious reserve. They’re designed to keep water safe from contamination and can last for years with proper care. You’ll need a siphon or pump to access the water, but the large volume means fewer worries about running out quickly. This is the best choice if you have space to dedicate to long-term storage.
- 55-gallon capacity for large reserves
- Made from food-grade, BPA-free plastic
- Best kept in a cool, dark place like a garage or basement
- Requires a pump or siphon to access water
- Great for long-term home storage
2. Stackable Water Storage Containers
Stackable containers are perfect for people who don’t have the room for large barrels. They’re usually between 3 and 7 gallons each, which makes them easy to move and rotate when needed. Their space-saving design lets you stack them vertically, making the most of small storage areas. They’re also more versatile, since you can take just a few with you if you need to leave home quickly. This makes them a solid middle-ground between portability and long-term storage.
- Hold 3–7 gallons each
- Designed to stack securely and save space
- Easier to carry and refill than large barrels
- Suitable for apartments or smaller homes
- Good balance of mobility and storage capacity
3. Portable Water Jugs with Handles
Portable jugs are a great option for both everyday use and emergency situations. Their manageable size makes them easy to carry, and most have built-in handles or spigots for pouring. These are ideal if you need to quickly grab water during a power outage or evacuation. They’re also useful for camping, road trips, or any situation where portability matters. Keeping a few jugs on hand ensures you have water that’s ready to move when you are.
- Range from 1–7 gallons
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Often include spigots for pouring
- Convenient for short-term use or evacuations
- Great backup to larger storage options
4. Collapsible Water Containers
Collapsible containers are excellent when storage space is tight. Made of durable, food-safe plastic, they fold flat when not in use, so you can store several without taking up much room. They’re typically smaller in capacity, but their portability makes them handy in emergencies. You can fill them quickly at the first sign of trouble and transport them with ease. These containers are a flexible, space-saving option to round out your water storage plan.
- Collapse flat when empty for easy storage
- Lightweight and highly portable
- Quick to fill in an emergency
- Usually hold 1–5 gallons
- Affordable and versatile option
5. Glass Water Storage Bottles
Glass containers may not be the first choice, but they’re a safe and non-toxic way to store water. They don’t leach chemicals, and many people prefer the taste of water kept in glass. While they’re heavier and breakable, they’re excellent for smaller quantities of water. These are especially good for everyday use, such as keeping purified water on hand in the kitchen. They make a great complement to plastic storage solutions.
- Non-toxic and chemical-free
- Preserve the fresh taste of water
- Best for small-scale, everyday storage
- Heavier and more fragile than plastic options
- Useful for supplementing long-term storage
Final Thoughts
The best water storage plan uses a mix of containers to cover different needs. Barrels give you long-term peace of mind, stackables and jugs add flexibility, and collapsible or glass options fill in the gaps. By combining these, you’ll be prepared for both everyday disruptions and serious emergencies.
Safe water storage doesn’t have to be complicated—it just requires the right tools and a little planning. With a few simple choices now, you’ll protect your family from one of the most common challenges in an emergency: access to clean water.
👉🏼 Want a step-by-step plan to cover your family? Grab my 3 Days of Water Preparedness Printable for a simple guide that takes the guesswork out of storing water safely.
You may also enjoy these:
- Why Water Storage Is the #1 Step in Emergency Preparedness
- 3 Life-Saving Reasons Water Storage Must Come First in Emergency Preparedness
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you purchase through them (at no extra cost to you!) Portions of this content may be generated by AI.
Comments ()