6 Water Storage Containers for Emergencies, by Size in 2026

Water storage containers are the core of any emergency water plan. The right mix depends on your space and whether you might need to carry water out the door. This guide covers six options, from grab-and-go jugs to a bathtub bladder you fill before a storm.

#1. Ready Store 20-Gallon Stackable Water Container Kit (4 x 5-Gallon): best all-round water storage containers

Ready Store 20-Gallon Stackable Water Container Kit (4 x 5-Gallon)

Our verdict:

Best all-round water storage containers

Best for most homes building toward a two-week supply.

View at Ready Store

Keep in mind: about 40 pounds each when full, so stack them low.

#2. Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage and Treatment Kit: best bulk storage

Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage and Treatment Kit

Our verdict:

Best bulk storage

Best for a garage or basement corner for long-term supply.

View at Augason Farms

Keep in mind: a full barrel is too heavy to carry. Store the included drawing equipment with it and leave access to the top fittings.

#3. WaterPrepared 55-Gallon Stackable Tank: best bulk tank with a spigot

WaterPrepared 55-Gallon Stackable Tank

Our verdict:

Best bulk tank with a spigot

Best for bulk storage you can draw from without a pump.

View at WaterPrepared

Keep in mind: a spigot near the base is handy but is one more place to check for leaks.

#4. waterBOB Bathtub Bladder: best for filling before a storm

waterBOB Bathtub Water Storage Bladder

Our verdict:

Best for filling before a storm

Best for hurricane areas, where you have warning before the taps may fail.

View at waterBOB

Keep in mind: it is a short-term store you fill when a storm is coming, not long-term storage.

#5. Scepter 5-Gallon Water Can: best rugged carry can

Scepter 5-Gallon Water Can

Our verdict:

Best rugged carry can

Best for water you may need to carry, load in a car or take to a shelter.

View at Scepter

Keep in mind: it does not stack as neatly as square jugs.

#6. Reliance Aqua-Tainer 4-Gallon Water Container: best low-cost square jug

Reliance Aqua-Tainer 4-Gallon Water Container

Our verdict:

Best low-cost square jug

Best for filling a shelf with water on a small budget.

View at Reliance

Keep in mind: the 4-gallon capacity means using several containers for a larger home reserve.

Factors to consider when choosing water storage containers

The CDC gives clear rules for containers you fill yourself:

• Use food-grade containers. If you cannot find them, pick a container with a tight top that is made of sturdy, unbreakable material, not glass.
• Prefer a narrow opening so you can pour without spilling.
• Never reuse containers that held toxic chemicals such as bleach or pesticides.
• Clean first. Ready.gov says to sanitize containers with one teaspoon of plain, unscented liquid bleach in a quart of water.

How we picked these water storage containers

We followed the CDC's guide to creating and storing an emergency water supply and Ready.gov's water page. Both call for food-grade containers. We picked a range of sizes for different homes. Details come from each listing, so check the current page before you buy.

How much water storage do you need

Ready.gov says to store at least one gallon per person per day for several days. The CDC says at least three days, and two weeks if possible. For a family of four:

• Three days: 12 gallons, or three 5-gallon jugs with room to spare.
• Two weeks: 56 gallons, or one 55-gallon barrel plus a jug.

Add more for pets, hot weather, or anyone sick or nursing.

Where and how to store water containers

Store them in a cool, dark place, away from gasoline and other chemicals. Label each one with the date you filled it. Replace home-filled water every six months, as Ready.gov and the CDC advise. Store-bought water can stay until its printed date.

For bigger setups, see the water storage tanks guide. For the full water plan, see the rain water barrel hub.

Questions people also ask

What kind of container is safe for storing drinking water?

Use food-grade containers. The CDC says to avoid glass and never reuse containers that held toxic chemicals like bleach or pesticides.

How long can water be stored in containers?

Ready.gov and the CDC say to replace water you store yourself every six months. Store-bought bottled water can be kept until its date.

How much water should I store?

At least one gallon per person per day. The CDC says to store at least three days and suggests two weeks if you can.

Can I reuse milk jugs for water storage?

It is best not to. Food-grade containers built for water are sturdier and seal better, and milk jugs are hard to clean fully.