7 Best Water Bottles For Backpacking & Hiking

Rilor Staff
Update: October 9, 2021
Table of Contents

Water bottles are considered essential these days, even if you are just strolling in the urban jungle. The hot weather can easily cause you to lose liquids in your body. 

For outdoor lovers, hydration is more than just a need; it is a means of survival. Aside from having hydration packs, they also have to get the best water bottles for backpacking and hiking. These tools can help you quench your thirst and have a means of storage for the water that you have filtrated. 

Of course, ordinary water bottles will never make the cut here. For outdoor and off-grid pursuits, you need water bottles that are as ergonomic and durable as the following:

7 Best Water Bottles For Backpacking And Hiking

 CapacityInsulation 
Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle 0.9 litersTempShield insulation
YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle with Chug Cap 0.77 litersDouble-wall vacuum insulation
Hydro Flask Standard-Mouth Water Bottle with Flex Cap 0.7 litersTempShield insulation
Nalgene Sustain Wide-Mouth Water Bottle 1 literNone
Klean Kanteen Wide-Mouth Water Bottle 0.8 litersNone
HYDRO CELL Stainless Steel Water Bottle 1.1 litersDouble-wall vacuum insulation
Survimate Filtered Water Bottle 0.65 litersNone

1. Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle

PRODUCT LINK

You can entrust your hydration needs with the Hydro Flask Wide-Mouth Vacuum Water Bottle. This unit is designed to tackle daily hikes and adventures to the wild. It features a patented TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation that preserves the temperature of your liquid for multiple hours. Meanwhile, its shell is made from 18/8 stainless steel; it also has a powder coating to improve its durability and resistance against the elements. Of course, it is BPA-free, too. 

Just as its name suggests, this Hydro Flask water bottle has a wide opening that allows you to drink on it conveniently. It also helps in hassle-free refills. Moreover, the water bottle is compatible with other Hydro Flask accessories. However, you need to purchase them separately. Overall, the ergonomics of this water bottle enable it to meet the needs of every thirsty backpacker and hiker. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 0.9 liters
  • Material - Stainless steel with powder coating 
  • Insulation - TempShield insulation
  • Opening - Wide
  • Weight - 18 ounces

2. YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle with Chug Cap

PRODUCT LINK

The YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle is also a well-known water bottle. Used mainly by hikers, this water bottle exudes durability that can withstand different elements. It is also sturdy enough to handle constant usage. One of its notable features is a two-part cap topped by its patented TripleHaul handle for hassle-free accessibility and transport. Furthermore, the bottle has an insanely rugged yet clear spout. With this component, you'll always know if you need to top off the bottle. 

Interestingly, the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle has a leak-proof construction. It prevents spills and unwanted mess caused by accidental dislodges. Such a capability is proof that this one is designed for people who are always on the move. Even if you toss the water bottle, no droplet will come out from it. And since it is fully insulated, it can keep your water cold or hot for extended periods. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 0.77 liters
  • Material - Stainless steel with powder coating 
  • Insulation - Double-wall vacuum insulation
  • Opening - Wide
  • Weight - 20 ounces

3. Hydro Flask Standard-Mouth Water Bottle with Flex Cap

PRODUCT LINK

Among all the standard water bottles of Hydro Flask, this model is the largest when it comes to capacity. But at the same time, its slip construction still lets you pack it inside your bag's side pocket or chair's cup holder. Similar to other Hydro Flask water bottles, this one features the patented double-wall vacuum insulation for temperature retention. It ensures that your water remains cold so that you can feel refreshed every time you take a sip. Storing hot water on it is also a good idea as it excels in keeping temperature. 

Moreover, this water bottle guarantees that the temperature inside the bottle doesn't affect its exterior. For instance, if you store hot water inside it, the container's surface will not get hot. Hence, you'll not get burnt by it. Such technology also prevents condensation from storing cold water. The food-grade stainless has optimal durability that lets it sustain continuous use. Its architecture is resistant to odor, bacteria, and bacteria. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 0.7 liters
  • Material - Stainless steel
  • Insulation - TempShield insulation
  • Opening - Medium
  • Weight - 12.8 ounces

4. Nalgene Sustain Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

PRODUCT LINK

The Nalgene Sustain Wide-Mouth is an excellent water bottle that features a recycled construction. Specifically, it is crafted from Tritan Renew polyester that includes 50 percent certified recycled content. The Tritan Renew is derived from recycled resin; it is phthalate-, BPS-, and BPA-free, so you can guarantee that you'll not get any complications from using it. 

The water bottle has a leak-proof construction. It can be sealed tight so that water can't escape from it once the cap is screwed. The water bottle has continuous, semi-buttressed threads that keep the seal tight. While it is true that this water bottle isn't insulated, it can still provide adequate temperature retention. However, just don't expect that it can keep the hotness or coldness of liquid for long periods. With its wide bottle opening, drinking, and refilling won't become a problem. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 1 liter
  • Material - Tritan Renew copolyester
  • Insulation - None
  • Opening - Wide
  • Weight - 6.25 ounces

5. Klean Kanteen Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

PRODUCT LINK

Klein Kanteen is a notable manufacturer of water bottles. Hence, it shouldn't be a surprise that one of its water bottles is on this list. Specifically, the Klean Kanteen Klean Kanteen Wide-Mouth Water Bottle flaunts an outdoor-worthy construction. It is slim but has a large water holding capacity. Moreover, its wide-mouth opening lets you pour and fill as quickly as possible. You'll also love the fact that this water bottle is suitable with various backcountry water filters. 

Its 18/8 food-grade stainless steel is not just rugged; it is also dishwasher-safe and BPA-free. Meanwhile, the loop-top screw cap has food-grade stainless steel on its interior and BPA-free polypropylene on its exterior. Such a design prevents the water from getting in contact with any plastic part. And since it has a slim body, it can fit most side pockets and cup holders. Its portability is one of the reasons why it is a good water bottle for backpacking and hiking. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 0.8 liters
  • Material - Stainless steel
  • Insulation - None
  • Opening - Wide
  • Weight - 7.25 ounces

6. HYDRO CELL Stainless Steel Water Bottle

PRODUCT LINK

The performance of the HYDRO CELL Stainless Steel Water Bottle is definitely suitable for the most rugged outdoor pursuits. Crafted from 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, the HYDRO CELL Water Bottle can resist corrosion, rusting, and oxidation. It also has impressive double-wall vacuum insulation that includes inner copper plating so that it can hold cold water for up to 24 hours and hot liquid for 8 hours. Meanwhile, the exterior has a grip-tech powder coating so that it won't slip from your hands even if it gets wet. 

This water bottle offers two caps. The first one is the detachable stainless steel screw cap which is designed for travel and on-the-move applications. Meanwhile, the second cap is a sports lid that comes with a straw. You should use it for sports and everyday activities. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 1.1 liters
  • Material - Stainless steel
  • Insulation - Double-wall vacuum insulation
  • Opening - Wide
  • Weight - 20 ounces

7. Survimate Filtered Water Bottle

PRODUCT LINK

One impressive choice for a backing or hiking water bottle is the Survimate Filtered Water Bottle. As its name suggests, the bottle is equipped with a sophisticated filtration system. It has four components: medical-grade fiber membrane, PP cotton, coconut shell activated carbon, and beads. Hence, as long as you have this water bottle, you may not need to bring a water filter at all. This water bottle is also made from Tritan copolyester. It is durable and offers good heat resistance. Furthermore, it doesn't emit odor and is free from harmful chemicals. 

Using this water bottle is pretty simple. It doesn't require hoses and pumps. You don't have to squeeze it either. You simply have to sip five to eight times so that you can drink clean water from it. This water bottle doesn't have insulation, though, so it cannot maintain the coldness or hotness of liquids. But of course, it is something that can be given, thanks to its filtrating capabilities. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Capacity - 0.65 liters
  • Material - Tritan copolyester
  • Insulation - None
  • Opening - Small
  • Weight - 10 ounces

How To Choose The Best Water Bottles For Backpacking And Hiking

For many people, water bottles appear to be ordinary items. In fact, a lot don't even consider it as an essential tool. But once you have realized that getting hydrated is important for outdoor adventures, you'll immediately appreciate the service that these water bottles offer. 

But of course, not all water bottles have the same qualities. Others are designed for day-to-day activities, while others are tailored for specific applications that require durability and ergonomics on their performance. 

For hiking, backpacking, and other backcountry excursions, the following factors should be taken into account whenever selecting water bottles. 

Water Capacity

The first thing to look at when choosing your next bottle is its capacity. You need to know how much liquid can fit in there before heading out. This will help you determine if this particular bottle has enough space for what you want to carry with you. 

In this aspect, you have to identify first how much water you are going to need in your trip. You have to assess your hydration needs. Keep in mind that your water intake during extensive activities is often doubled as compared to when you are not doing anything exhausting. 

It is always recommended that you drink water before your trip so that you will get thirsty easily. At the same time, you should also ensure that your water bottle has enough space for you to replenish the lost liquid from your body. You have to be wary about this matter, especially if you aren't planning to bring a water filter.

Size Of The Water Bottle

Another factor to take note of is the size of the container. It's best to choose one which fits comfortably in your hand or shoulder bag. If possible, try to find one that doesn't weigh too heavy. A good rule of thumb is to go for something around 1 liter. However, some backpackers prefer smaller containers because they feel more comfortable carrying them.

Durability

When buying any product, you must make sure that it lasts long. When it comes to water bottles, you have to keep in mind that they're exposed to harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures, high altitudes, and rough terrain. Therefore, you have to buy ones that are made of durable materials. They should resist scratches and dents. Also, avoid plastic bottles since they tend to break down quickly. Instead, opt for stainless steel or aluminum bottles.

Stainless water bottles are often preferred by people. These are usually lightweight but still sturdy. On top of that, they are resistant to rust and corrosion. Some water bottles have a powder coating to improve their sturdiness, as well as defense against the elements. 

Insulation

You may think that having insulation isn't necessary for most situations. But for those who live in cold climates, it becomes crucial. Insulated bottles prevent heat loss through evaporation. As a result, you won't experience chills even after being outside for hours. Moreover, insulated bottles allow you to stay warm longer than non-insulated ones. So, if you plan to hike in colder areas, then you might want to invest in one.

Screw Caps vs. Quick-Access Caps

If you don't like screw caps, then consider getting quick access caps instead. Screw caps require extra effort while opening and closing. In addition, they are harder to use on hot days. In contrast, quick-access caps come with an easy way to open and close them. Plus, these types of caps are easier to clean.

In Summary

Water bottles play a vital role in outdoor adventures. We rely heavily on them to quench our thirst. Thus, we have to make sure that we purchase only the best ones. This guide provides all the information needed when choosing the right kind of water bottle. Hopefully, you'll now know what to expect when purchasing a new one.

If you want to reduce the time you spend finding the best water bottles for backpacking and hiking, I suggest that you check out the list that I've included here. The water bottles in this post are known for their functionality, durability, and outdoor-worthy quality.

That's it for now. If you have related inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below.

Other readings you may enjoy
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram