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The 13 Best Water Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Stay hydrated wherever you go with these durable and insulated water bottles.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Janelle Jones

For hiking trips, biking adventures, and commuting to the office, a reusable water bottle is a great way to increase your hydration and cut down on single-use plastics. We tested dozens of popular water bottles to determine the very best based on qualities like durability, portability, and the ability to retain temperatures. 

When picking out a water bottle, it’s important to factor in weight, size, and material so you purchase a container that best fits your needs. To find the best water bottles on the heavily saturated market, we put the most popular and innovative designs through a series of tests in our Lab. After all the jostling, dropping, and critiquing we put them through, the Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle is our top pick if you’re looking for a bottle that’s easy to carry around, keeps water cold, and has a leak-proof lid. 

Best Overall

Thermoflask stainless steel water bottle.

• Drinkability 5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Insulation 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

This stainless steel bottle is easy to carry, keeps water cold for hours, and has a reliable, leak-proof lid that was still in pristine condition after being dropped on the floor three times. 

This high-capacity water bottle is bigger and heavier than others we tested.

The Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle is the ideal water bottle for everyday use. Whether you’re going to the gym or running errands, this vacuum-insulated, stainless steel bottle has a comfortable grip with a convenient handle for carrying, and it fits in a standard-sized vehicle cup holder. No need to worry about backpack spills—we were impressed with the strong seal that prevented leaking, even when we vigorously shook the bottle. Depending on your day-to-day needs, you can switch between two lids that come with the Thermoflask: one straw top and one chug cap that remained leak-proof after being dropped lid-down on the ground three times. We thought the chug cap was comfortable to drink from, and it provided a steady flow of water without any chance of spillage while sipping. The straw lid is ideal for exercising or when you’re otherwise busy, thanks to a tiny air pressure hole that allows you to drink continuously with one hand or hands-free. 

If you want a great travel accessory that provides an ample reserve of chilled water all day long, this is your winner. The Thermoflask’s double-wall insulation did an excellent job of keeping water temperature steady over six hours, only warming 3 degrees in that time — making it perfect to keep in your tennis bag on a sunny day on the court. In addition to being perfectly cold, water from the Thermoflask tasted pure and fresh with absolutely none of the metallic or plastic flavor transfer that can come along with some lesser bottles. While we tested the cobalt blue model, there are four other colors to choose from, including white, black, purple, and light blue. The 40-ounce model is ideal when you need a robust supply of hydration, but the Thermoflask is available in 18- to 64-ounce bottles if you have different capacity needs.

The Details: 40 ounces | BPA-free stainless steel | Chug spout or straw

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Overall, Runner-up

Yeti stainless steel bottle.

• Portability 4 /5
• Durability 5 /5

The chug cap is uniquely pleasant to drink out of, and the water bottle sustained no leaks or scratches after we dropped it three times.

The bottle felt heavy to carry and didn’t fit securely in a standard-sized cup holder.

For a durable water bottle built to withstand a rugged lifestyle, the Yeti Rambler 26-ounce Bottle is a solid choice. We found that the water didn’t absorb any metallic taste, and it felt natural to drink out of the narrow chug cap, which was effective at preventing spilling. Drinking from the bottle is easy because of its comfortable mouthpiece. While it barely fits in a standard car cup holder, the bottle slipped into our backpack’s water bottle pocket nicely. This bottle also regulates temperature effectively; the water only rose 2 degrees after six hours. Although the Yeti Rambler felt slightly bulky and heavy, the flaws will be worth it to those who need a durable container that can provide refreshing gulps hours into an outdoor venture . We dropped the bottle three times, and although it didn’t sustain scratches or leaks, there was some minor denting on its body. Still, we think this is a sturdy choice for comfortable drinking in a variety of settings. 

The Details: 26 ounces | 18/8 Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe | Chug spout

Travel + Leisure / Janelle Jones

Best Insulation

Takeya actives water bottle.

• Insulation 5 /5

This water bottle remained dent- and leak-free after being dropped three times, and the ice water’s temperature even got colder after six hours. 

It’s too tall and wide for a standard-sized cup holder, and a few tiny drops leaked when we carried it around.

If you prefer your water ice-cold, don’t go anywhere without the Takeya Actives Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle. It performed the best out of all of the bottles during the temperature testing: The water was actually 5 degrees colder after six hours in the bottle, thanks to melted ice and vacuum insulation. According to Takeya, the bottle will keep hot liquids at the same temperature for 12 hours, and cold liquid frigid for 24 hours. We were also impressed with the lid of the bottle, noting that it’s “just the right size so that you can get as much water as you want without spilling and can get a perfect flow of water from it.” Its 24-ounce capacity means you won't have to buy multiple bottles of water, so it's also a money-saving travel product . Along with the double-walled stainless steel material of the main bottle, the lid is insulated to prevent condensation from building up and lowering the water temperature. When we walked around with the bottle, a few drops did escape, but there was no leaking when we shook it. The size of the bottle was a great fit for a backpack holder, but is too tall to rest securely in a vehicle cup holder. While the bottle might be too big for some car commuters, we think it’s a great everyday companion that will keep your water cold all year long.

The Details: 24 ounces | BPA-free stainless steel | Chug spout

Best Collapsible

Nomader collapsible water bottle.

• Drinkability 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Insulation 2 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The silicone bottle rolls into a small pouch and still feels stable to drink from without any plasticky aftertaste.

This bottle is not insulated and won’t keep water cold for long.

Our top pick for the best collapsible water bottle, the Nomader Water Bottle impressed us with its ability to seamlessly roll up into a small pouch and expand into a full-size water bottle that remained leak-proof during heavy shaking. Although the silicone water bottle isn’t insulated, the water tasted normal and didn’t have any plasticky aftertaste. The lid was pleasant to drink from, although the cap does touch your face when you do so. The Nomader felt stable despite being made of squishy silicone; when we dropped the bottle onto its lid, however, the plastic cap cracked a bit. Meanwhile, the body bounced off the floor without leaving any scuffs or damage. Ideal for packing, the Nomader water bottle will keep you hydrated and save space in your bag. 

The Details: 22 ounces | BPA-free silicone | Dishwasher safe | Chug spout

Best with Straw

Brita insulated filtered water bottle.

 Amazon

• Seal 4.5 /5

The lid flips open and clicks shut, providing a durable seal to prevent leaking.

The aluminum base wasn’t as durable as the other bottles we tested.

The Brita Stainless Steel Filter Bottle has a sleek design with eight matte colors to choose from in 20- or 32-ounce sizes. During testing, we loved the pure taste from the internal water-filtering straw. The bottle comes with one filter that will need to be replaced once every two months, per Brita’s instructions. The lid of the cap flips open to reveal a silicone mouthpiece, and while we were skeptical of the texture, it ended up being comfortable to drink from. When we shook the bottle around, not one drop escaped from the mouthpiece, but when we dropped it lid-down, the base dented easily and the seal broke, causing the cap to leak a bit. The bottle fits in a standard backpack and cup holder, and there is a wide handle on the top of the lid that is smooth to hold when you need to carry it. After sitting out for six hours, the ice inside of the bottle melted, and the water temperature decreased by three degrees. The Filter Bottle comes in an array of unique colors, including ruby and jade. If you’re looking for a bottle that will keep your water chilled and filtered, this Brita design is a great option, but we recommend handling it with some care so it won’t dent. 

The Details: 20 and 32 ounces | Stainless steel | Straw

Best Stainless Steel

Hydro flask 24 oz standard mouth bottle.

• Insulation 3.5 /5
• Durability 3.5 /5

The bottle is comfortable to hold with a solid grip, and the wide mouth was pleasant to drink out of.

There were a few dents after dropping the bottle, and the water temperature went up after six hours.

If you’re in search of a no-frills stainless steel water bottle, the Hydro Flask Standard-mouth Flex Cap Bottle is a wise choice. During testing, the bottle performed well and impressed us with a sturdy grip, and the width of the mouth made for a comfortable lip to drink from. We thought the jointed loop handle was easy to hold and allowed the bottle to sway and move around naturally. However, someone with bigger hands might find the loop of the handle to be too small. If that’s the case, the bottle fits perfectly into a backpack water bottle sleeve and a car cup holder. Although the body of the bottle dented when we dropped it, the flaws were only cosmetic, and the functionality remained intact. Over time, the bottle would likely get dented and scratched, but it would stay functional and leak-proof for everyday use. If feel is more important to you than aesthetics, this could be the right bottle for you.

The Details: 18 ounces | 18/8 Pro-grade stainless steel | Dishwasher safe | Canteen lid

Best for Biking

Camelbak podium bike water bottle.

• Drinkability 3 /5

The bottle had a solid grip while being held, and it was unaffected by our durability tests.

The spout needs to be pulled out by hand, and this is not an insulated bottle.

The CamelBak Podium Bike Water Bottle is a lightweight, BPA-free water bottle optimized for cycling. We were impressed with the bottle’s durability, as it had no issues being dropped on the ground several times. It sustained no leaks, cracks, or scratches, which is ideal for mountain or terrain biking where there’s a possibility that your bottle could fall out of a holder at high speeds. The plastic design of the bottle can’t keep water cold, but it has more give to securely fit into a bike’s holder without rattling around like a clunky stainless steel model. When we shook the bottle to test for leaks, it remained secure without any drops coming out of the spout. The spout does require a hand to open, so you may need to stop to drink from it when you’re on a bike. We had to squeeze the bottle to access water, since there is no straw or wide-mouth cap. While this bottle can’t keep water cold for the duration of an extended bike ride, we think its durability and lightweight design make it a reliable piece of gear for your next ride.

The Details: 21 ounces | BPA-free plastic | Chug spout

Best Filtering

Grayl ultrapress filter bottle.

• Insulation 2.5 /5

The non-slip rubber base had a comfortable grip and prevented damage to the plastic body when we dropped it. 

The water temperature increased after six hours.

With a high-grade water filtration system, the Grayl Ultrapress Water Purifier and Filter Bottle is a great asset to have when camping or hiking. The manufacturer claims that the filtration system removes 99.9 percent of viruses, bacteria, and protozoan cysts and filters out dirt and chemicals. We were impressed by the bottle’s durability and comfort while drinking from the vented spout. The hard plastic material is coated with a soft grip cover that was comfortable to hold, and the jointed handle was easy to grasp. Drinking from the spout felt natural, and it closed securely without any leaks occurring during testing. While the price point is higher than most bottles, we think the durability, ease of use, and filtration system are worth it. 

The Details: 16.9 ounces | Polypropylene | Chug spout

Corkcicle Canteen

It's easy to drink from and comes in multiple fun colors and designs.

It dented badly after being dropped.

This chic water bottle is easy to drink from and doesn't leak even when shaken. The bottle isn't too large and has a smooth-but-not-slick exterior that is easy to hold or store in most bags' side pockets. During our insulation tests, this bottle had one of the best performances, keeping water cold even after six hours in our lab (it's advertised with the ability to keep liquids cold for up to 25 hours.) The bottle did, however, dent during our drop test, so it may not be as durable for everyday use as other stainless steel options, but makes for a stylish statement water bottle to bring on low-risk adventures.

The Details: 16 ounces | Stainless steel | Canteen lid

Best Plastic

Yeti yonder water bottle.

• Insulation 3 /5

It's completely leak-proof.

It isn't insulated.

This Yeti bottle is made of 50 percent recycled plastic and BPA-free plastic for a lightweight alternative to heavier stainless steel bottles. The tether cap is easy to use and prevents leaks, even if you toss it into your backpack or carry-on for a full day on the town. It also fits into all standard-sized cupholders and water bottle pockets for easy access. Throughout our tests, the bottle was dropped and thrown around more times than we could count — on grass, tile, and carpet — and it didn't suffer any scratches or scuffs. While this water bottle isn't insulated, the lighter material makes for a sleek option perfect for those who want to minimize bag weight.

The Details: 20, 25, 34, and 50 ounces | Plastic | Dishwasher safe | Canteen lid

Best Filtered

Larq bottle filtered.

It keeps water cold for hours, even in extreme temperatures.

The filters need to be replaced every two months and are $20 each.

To ensure you have access to safe drinking water wherever you go, consider this filtered water bottle by Larq. While the large filter does take up some room in the body of the bottle, it's definitely worth it to make sure you stay hydrated wherever you go. Simply fill your bottle from your nearest water fountain or bathroom faucet and enjoy crisp, clean water every time. During three months of tests, the bottle never leaked, even when brought on planes, trains, buses, and the subway inside bags and clipped to the outside with the built-in carabiner. We even used this bottle in Egypt in the middle of July and it kept the water cold for hours. This is a pricey bottle, but constant access to reliable drinking water (especially when traveling) makes this bottle well-worth the price.

The Details: 17 and 25 ounces | Stainless steel | Straw

Best with Handle

Stanley 40 oz stainless steel h2.0 flowstate quencher tumbler.

It's perfect if you're going on a road trip or driving as it will last you a long time and keep your water pretty cold.

It is not leak proof and water will come out if it turns on its side.

At this point, Stanley Tumblers are synonymous with it-girl-hydration. These large bottles keep water cold for hours, feature a convenient straw, and come in a variety of sizes so you can pick your favorite. Plus, the sturdy and convenient handle is great for travel — whether you're going for a walk or heading to the airport. While the tumbler can get quite heavy, it's the perfect choice for taking to the gym or bringing on your next road trip since it holds plenty of water. We prepared our water with ice before bed and waking up the next day, the water was still cold. The exterior is also shockingly durable and looks brand new even after we've dropped it on the sidewalk several times

The Details: 14, 20, 30, 40 and 64 ounces | Stainless Steel | Dishwasher safe | Straw

Best for Hiking

Wondery fifty states bucket list water bottle.

The stickers are well-designed and a fun motivator to head to new destinations.

Be sure to store your unused stickers in a safe space as replacement stickers cost extra.

This water bottle is such a fun idea, you'll want to buy one for yourself and your favorite hiking buddy. The Wonder Outdoors Bucket List Bottles come in the Fifty States design, The Original Parks of the USA , Euro Trip , and more. Each bottle comes with several sticker sheets, so as you travel to new destinations, you can peel off the sticker and add it to the outside of your bottle. Perfect for new travelers, youngsters, and bucket list adventurers, this bottle is even dish washer safe (although hand washing will help the stickers last longer.)

We love that the bottle comes with a sturdy handle that you can use for holding or as an attachment piece for the outside of your pack. It's also a great size for hiking, at 32-ounces, it provides plenty of water for shorter hikes, but doesn't add too much weight to your set-up.

The Details: 32 ounces | Stainless steel | Dishwasher safe | Straw

We tested dozens of popular water bottles in our New York City lab and in the real world to find out which ones have the best drinkability, durability, portability, insulation, and leak-proof levels.

We first filled up their water bottles one-quarter of the way full of ice, and the remaining space was filled with cold water from a machine. We then measured and recorded the water temperatures. Then, we each took sips from our bottles while standing, walking, and sitting, to evaluate how comfortable each one was to drink from, whether there was any spilling, and how easy or difficult it was to take big gulps. To test the seals, we shook the closed bottles, hold them upside down for one minute, and then place them in a backpack and walk around for five minutes. The bags and bottles were carefully inspected to see whether any drops had escaped.

Our portability tests included having the testers grip each bottle as well as carry it with any included handles to judge the weight and how natural it felt to hold. We placed each water bottle in a standard-size car cup holder and a backpack water bottle pocket to see how convenient it would be to transport them in these common ways. 

Next, we assessed durability by dropping the bottles onto the ground from the height of a table. The bottles were dropped three times so that they landed on their bodies and three times with the lid facing the hard floor. That allowed us to see how easily the bottles got dented or scratched and whether the lids broke and rendered the bottles unusable.

Lastly, we tested the insulation of each bottle by letting them sit in the sun for six hours, taking the temperature again halfway through the wait period and then one final time after the full six hours.

Other Water Bottles We Liked

There were some water bottles that almost made our list, but a few weaknesses during testing meant they didn’t make the cut.

Purist Mover : While we thought the bottle was easy to grip and drink out of, it was easily dented during the durability test and even leaked afterwards. The bottle didn’t perform as well as we had hoped, given its somewhat lofty price. 

Kleen Kanteen Insulated TKWide 32-ounce with Chug Cap : Although this bottle was durable and retained temperature well, there was nothing remarkable about it that stood out in comparison to other insulated bottles we tested. 

Tips for Buying a Water Bottle

Consider the material’s durability and insulation.

The material of a water bottle affects its durability, ability to retain water temperature, and weight. We found that insulated stainless steel bottles were the most effective in keeping the water temperature cold after six hours. While stainless steel is generally durable, you can expect a few cosmetic flaws after prolonged use, like dents or scratches. Although plastic water bottles won’t keep your water cold over time, they are ideal for someone who is looking for a lightweight, travel-friendly bottle—especially the folding bottles that are perfect for saving space. Since glass bottles have the potential to break or shatter, we recommend being mindful of the activities you would use them for. 

Certain types of lids and spouts suit different activities 

There are several common types of lids for water bottles, including straws, screw tops, chug caps, and sports caps. With a straw lid, there will be an external straw spout that flips up on the cap and attaches to the internal straw. A screw-top lid untwists to allow you to drink out of a wide-mouth water bottle and can often come with a handle on it for easy carrying. Ideal for a gym workout or other high-intensity activities, a chug cap has a wider spout designed for quick gulps. Commonly found in plastic water bottles, a sports cap has a plastic or rubber piece that opens and closes to release water when the bottle is tilted or squeezed. 

BPA stands for Bisphenol A , which is a type of chemical that is commonly used in manufacturing plastic materials used for water bottles and other food containers. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the presence of BPA has affected the reproductive systems of laboratory animals, it is unknown what the effects of low BPA exposure are on humans.

A water bottle will generally come with cleaning instructions that will indicate whether it’s dishwasher-safe or not. Not all water bottles are dishwasher-safe, so it’s important to check the manufacturer's instructions before washing the bottle, to avoid ruining its functionality. When a dishwasher isn’t an option, most bottles can be sufficiently cleaned by hand using soap and water. You can also opt for a brush cleaning set to help scrub all the way to the bottom of the bottle as well as the small ridges in and around the lid.

Glass water bottles are usually chemical-free and made from natural materials, but they aren’t always the most practical while traveling due to breakage risk. While often durable, plastic water bottles have the potential to leak bacteria and chemicals into your drinking water. When it comes to clean and safe water bottles that will also withstand long trips, look for those made of durable and toxic-free materials like stainless steel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure, where she writes and reviews travel products. She has been travel writing since 2018, and product testing since 2021. Anna worked with travel editors and expert product testers to determine the results for the best water bottles, based on a series of tests completed in our New York Lab.

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The 8 Best Travel Water Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

An often overlooked item that can improve your trip

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

PeopleImages  / Getty Images 

A water bottle is an essential travel item, but finding the best one—in other words, one that doesn't leak and isn't heavy or fragile—can be challenging. We researched the best water bottles on the market and came up with a list of 26 to put to the test in our New York City testing lab. Travel editors tested the bottles for portability, insulation, durability, drinkability, and overall value by filling up the water bottles, dropping them onto the lab's concrete floor, and taking temperature readings. We then averaged scores for each category to give you the best travel water bottles for any trip or situation.

Final Verdict

Other travel water bottles we tested, product selection, how we tested.

• What to Look For

What Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, takeya actives water bottle.

• Drinkability 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Insulation 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Actives Spout lid has perfect water flow

Extra lid loop offers another carrying option

Passed the durability test with no damages

Superior insulation

Not completely leakproof

Our testers liked a lot about the Takeya Actives Spout Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle, particularly its drinkability, durability, insulation, and overall value. The superb drinkability ratings start with the bottle's Actives Spout lid, which maximizes water flow without the likelihood of spilling it all over your face a la other brands' wide-mouth bottles. "This is really a perfect cap," one tester said of the lid. "Just the right size so that you can get as much water as you want without spilling and can get a perfect flow of water from it."

The bottle held up well in the shake and durability tests but surprisingly had some leaks after walking around with it in a bag. It was also slightly heavier than some of the other bottles we tested. But where this bottle also stood out compared to others was its insulation. Our original temperature reading put the water temperature at about 55 degrees. At three hours, the temperature dropped to 47.5 degrees thanks to the ice in the bottle. And by six hours, the temperature had only risen to about 50 degrees.

Testers also enjoyed some unique features of this bottle, like the removable rubber anti-skid coaster at its base, the hinge-lock, which keeps the cap out of your way while drinking, and its style. "This is a great water bottle for everyday use," a tester concluded. "But because of the smaller cap and ease of drinking while being in motion, plus its durability, I also think it would be good for someone who is very active."

Material: 18/8 food-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 18, 22, 24, 32, 40, and 64 ounces

TripSavvy / Conor Ralph

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Thermoflask bottle with chug lid and straw lid.

• Portability 4.5 /5
• Insulation 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Includes two different lids

Cup holder compatible

Overall excellent value

A few dents from the drop test

The coolest thing about this water bottle? It comes with two lids—a chug lid and a straw lid. Both lids are leakproof—clutch for travel—and both passed the drop tests without cracking. We also liked that it was one of the few water bottles to fit in all cup holders and that it has a carrying handle, though we'd like to see that handle have the ability to fold down.

The vacuum insulation claims to keep liquids cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12. After six hours, the temperature of the ice water we put in the bottle only increased from about 51 degrees to just under 55 degrees. The only real drawback we saw with this bottle was the bottle itself did dent when we dropped it. But the straw didn't open, and no leaks started.

Material: 18/8 food-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 24 ounces

Best Budget

Mira water bottle.

• Drinkability 4 /5
• Portability 3.5 /5
• Durability 3.5 /5

Good mouth opening

Testers rated the seal and drinkability highly

Water stayed decently cold

Heavy and no extra features

Didn't hold up well in drop tests

If you lose water bottles frequently, a budget bottle might be a wise choice. Our testers liked MIRA's insulated stainless steel water bottle best of the budget-friendly options we tested. The MIRA bottle has a good grip and a cap that stayed intact during the drop tests, and it's a good carrying size. It also did an excellent job of keeping water cold, only increasing from 54.5 degrees to just over 58 degrees over a span of six hours.

Be careful if you go with the MIRA, as many dents formed during the drop tests. "It's now wobbly and doesn't stand perfectly straight and balanced anymore," one tester noted after the drop tests. Still, if you're looking for a basic bottle that won't hurt to lose, this one is a good value that keeps water cold and is nice to drink from.

Material: 18/8 stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 17 and 25 ounces

Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle

 Amazon

• Drinkability 4.5 /5
• Seal 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Excellent insulation, holding temperature for six hours

Filters water

Good for carrying and holding

Lid potentially annoying for certain face shapes

Not the most durable

If you didn't already know, Brita makes water bottles, too. And it turns out the brand makes pretty good ones. Like the typical Brita counter water filter, the hard-sided water bottle includes a filter that reduces chlorine taste and odor. (Note: It's recommended to replace the filter every two months.) Besides the filter, this bottle has all of the typical features included in a quality reusable water bottle, like stainless steel construction and a leakproof lid.

This bottle has a silicone mouthpiece that our testers liked. "The water tasted great and pure," one tester noted. "The button to open the lid is nice and convenient, as is the handle on top." Our testers had one issue with this bottle: It dented fairly easily, and the seal was compromised when it landed on the lid during the drop tests. But, overall, our testers liked this bottle quite a bit.

Material: Stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 20 and 32 ounces

Best for Hiking

Nalgene 32-ounce wide mouth tritan bottle.

• Insulation 2 /5

Inexpensive

Lid loop offers additional carrying options

Very tough to break or dent

Wide mouth makes for easier spilling

There are a few pieces of gear that are absolute game-changers. The 32-ounce Nalgene Water Bottle is one of those products. Nalgene has been around for decades, but we still remember getting our first Nalgene bottle as a teenager in the early 2000s. Nalgene has manufactured this water bottle for over 50 years, fine-tuning its design so that the water bottle is durable enough to survive in any condition or hiking adventure. This lightweight water bottle features BPA-free Tritan material, which can handle both cold and hot drinks. The opening is large enough for ice cubes to fit inside, which also makes it a breeze to wash by hand. You'll be able to track your water intake easily when you're on the go using the measurement markers displayed on the side, and the loop-attached lid guarantees you'll never lose it.

Material: Tritan renew copolyester | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 32 ounces

Best for Portability

Hydro flask standard mouth water bottle.

Hydro Flask

• Insulation 3.5 /5

Carrying loop boosts ease of use

Fits everywhere

Grippy outer material

Not great durability

Temperature holding could be better

Bend, Oregon-based Hydro Flask has elbowed its way into the competitive insulated water bottle market by making high-quality and functional tumblers and bottles. We've always been Nalgene fans because of the brand's lightweight, rugged, and inexpensive bottles. But Hydro Flask has grown on us over the past decade for its functionality. The Standard Mouth Flex Cap bottle has quickly become one of our favorites in the Hydro Flask line.

Our testers also liked the Standard Mouth Flex Cap bottle for many reasons, including its textured finish for boosted grip, its superior seal that didn't allow any leaking, and the actual flex cap, which has a loop that pivots and moves with you as you walk. "The size of the bottle fits perfectly into a backpack holder and fits securely in there without feeling top heavy, so it'll fall out. It also fits well into a car cup holder," a tester reported.

Two downsides dropped the overall scoring of this bottle. The temperature increased almost 8 degrees over six hours (although it stayed remarkably stable for three hours). And it dented easily. "A couple more falls could have likely broken the bottom rim and made the bottle unusable," a tester noted. "The lid and cap, however, stayed intact."

Material: 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 18, 21, and 24 ounces

Best Splurge

Yeti stainless steel bottle.

Narrow mouthpiece helps prevent spills

Holds temperature well

Very strong and durable

A bit heavy

When we see a YETI product, we know two things are likely to be true about it. First, it's going to be expensive. Second, it's going to be excellent quality. The Rambler bottle isn't that much more costly than others on this list. But it is of top-shelf quality, and if you don't tend to lose water bottles, it is definitely worth the higher price.

"A delight to drink from," one tester succinctly described the Rambler. "The mouth opening was a great size, and the water tasted terrific and cold."

The Rambler comes with a chug cap, and if you get a smaller size (it comes in five sizes, up to 64 ounces), it's likely to fit easily into a backpack pocket or car cup holder. The temperature only increased by about 2 degrees over six hours. And, because it's YETI, there were basically no dents or scuffs during the drop tests. Like the Hydro Flask, the YETI Rambler has edged its way into our water bottle rotation with our Nalgene, and we're good with it.

Material: 18/8 kitchen-grade stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 18, 26, 36, 46, and 64 ounces

Best Thermos

Healthy human vacuum insulated double walled thermos.

Excellent drinkability

Cap stayed intact during drop tests

Excellent insulation

Sustained some denting

There's a lot to like about the Healthy Human Water Bottle. For one, it was one of our top performers in the temperature test, dropping almost a full degree over six hours. Our testers also enjoyed the size of the lid for drinking as water poured out easily but not too quickly. It was also super comfortable for our testers to hold. Like others on this list, it did dent somewhat easily during the drop tests, but the cap was not damaged and only suffered minor scuffs.

Material: 18/8 stainless steel | BPA-free: Yes | Sizes: 16, 21, 32, and 40 ounces

Our thorough testing revealed the Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle to be the best overall. In terms of price, insulation, and durability, this bottle takes the cake. The ThermoFlask 24 Oz. Bottle came in a close second, impressing our testers with its top-notch leak protection and drinkability.

We tested 26 bottles for this roundup. Other bottles we tested not included above in our list were as follows:

CamelBak Eddy+ : We like the size of this bottle and feel it is ideal for active pursuits, but it did not hold up well during our durability or seal tests, and the bite-and-suck straw isn't the most comfortable to use.

CamelBak Podium Bike Water Bottle : This bottle is durable, seals well, and is lightweight. It is also difficult to squeeze to get the water out and would not suit anyone with hand weakness.

Purist Mover Vacuum Water Bottle : The Purist Mover is easy to grip and does not leak while in pristine condition. Our tester deducted points on durability because it began to leak after being dropped twice and noted that anyone with nails would have difficulty opening the thumb slot.

Kleen Kanteen Classic Water Bottle : Our tester found this bottle easy to drink from, and the textured exterior easy to grip. Though it is not expensive, the durability test demonstrated that even a modest drop would make this bottle unusable.

Kleen Kanteen TKWide : We liked drinking from this bottle and didn't have any issues with leaking, but it became uncomfortably heavy when filled, especially considering the handle is made of a sturdy metal without rubber.

S'well Stainless Steel Water Bottle : Our testers liked the shape of this bottle and the fact that it easily fits in a cup holder. It's not as durable as we'd like, and after being dented a few times, it wouldn't stand up straight.

Platypus DuoLock SoftBottle : Malleable yet durable, this soft bottle performed reasonably well and didn't leak. However, after only three hours, the water had reached room temperature, and the cap was somewhat cumbersome when drinking.

Que The Collapsible Bottle : The unique design of the Que bottle played well with our testers. The main drawbacks they found were it had very little insulating capability and that the rubber material tended to pick up dust and hair.

W&P Porter Glass Water Bottle : This pick has a good-sized mouth opening and keeps the water inside tasting pure due to its glass construction. This also means it is more fragile than bottles made of other materials.

Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle : Multiple lids provide a comfortable drinking experience, and the seal was not perfect but solid. We took points away after the drop test, which resulted in several dents and damaged the cap to the point of causing leakage.

E-Senior Collapsible Water Bottle : Easy to stow with a good seal, this bottle survived the durability test beautifully. Unfortunately, we found it awkward to drink from and grip while full.

MoChic Flat Water Bottle : In terms of drinkability, seal, and durability, this is a great option. The main drawback was that its unique shape (kind of a flask/water bottle hybrid) is not easy to fit into standard cup holders or backpacks.

We selected products based on internet research and the expertise of travel writers, editors, and our lab testing team. Internet research included examining what other prominent media sites have featured and highest-rated products on sites like Amazon and REI. Individual expertise came from the experience of TripSavvy's editors and writers and the water bottles we've used over the years.

Once we selected an initial list of products, we narrowed it down to the 26 tested above based on price points, intended uses, features, and styles. We wanted to provide a diverse list of products to fit as many different types of consumers, travelers, and outdoor-focused individuals as possible.

We tested water bottles for drinkability, seal, portability, insulation, durability, and value. Each bottle was rated on a five-point scale for each category. We averaged each score to create an overall score for each bottle.

First, we filled each bottle with ice a quarter of the way. Then we filled the rest with cold water from the water machine in our testing lab. An initial temperature reading was taken. Testers took temperature readings three and six hours after the initial reading. For drinkability, testers took drinks from the bottles while standing still and walking, noting any spills or splashes.

We tested the seal by shaking the bottles, holding them upside down for one minute, tossing them in backpacks, and carrying them around for five minutes. Testers rated portability based on the bottles' grip, carrying handles, and how well they fit in cup holders and backpack carrying pockets.

Drop tests tested durability. Testers dropped the filled bottles three times on the lids and three times on the main body and rated the bottles based on the damage. Lastly, testers rated value based on how the bottles performed across all tests.

What to Look For in a Travel Water Bottle

These days, insulated bottles' standard water material is 18/8 stainless steel. Be on the hunt for that material if you're looking for a quality bottle. Other brands, like Nalgene, feature a proprietary Tritan plastic material. Most importantly, be sure the bottle you pick is BPA-free.

Like the 18/8 stainless steel construction, most quality bottles will claim up to 24 hours of keeping liquids cold. This claim will vary based on many factors, like how cold the liquid is initially when it's placed in the bottle and how warm or cold it is when you use it. Vacuum and double vacuum insulations are the best types of insulation these days, so look for that when purchasing a water bottle if insulation matters to you.

Style of Lid and Cap

While materials and insulations are mostly the same in reusable water bottles, lid and cap styles can vary. Do you prefer a wide-mouth lid? Standard-mouth? Do you like a straw? A smaller lid? Those are all personal preferences to consider when picking a water bottle.

Extra Features

Some water bottles have bonus features like filters, purifiers, or fruit infusers. If that interests you, be on the lookout for those additional items. Just know that with those extra items likely comes increased costs.

This is less of an issue if you're only putting water in your water bottle. You can either hand wash your bottle or throw it in the dishwasher if it's dishwasher-safe. All water bottles come with cleaning instructions. But, if you're like us and put electrolytes or other liquids in your water bottle, cleaning can get a bit more involved. This might require additional scrubbing with warm or hot water and typical dish soap. Pro tip: If mold starts to form, fill your bottle a quarter of the way with ice and add coarse salt. Shake it hard until whatever is growing on the sides of your bottle is removed. We have noticed the traditional Nalgene material is more likely to grow mold than new Nalgene materials and the 18/8 stainless steel.

Another rule is to give your bottle a good scrubbing before using it for the first time.

Any reusable water bottle! The only potential issue is forgetting there's water in it when you go through the security line. Reusable water bottles are excellent for travel as they are better for the planet and help you avoid overpaying for a water bottle after going through the TSA security checkpoint .

We love bottles that have some sort of carrying loop on the lid. It's easier to carry in your hands or attach to a backpack or other luggage with a carabiner. Most carry-on backpacks and other luggage items also have water bottle-specific pockets. If those options don't work, putting the bottle in your carry-on bag will work.

Nathan Allen is TripSavvy's Outdoor Gear Editor. Friends and family have made fun of him for the amount of liquids he keeps on hand. Nathan uses collapsible water bottles daily while trail running, biking water bottles often while cycling or mountain biking, and keeps them nearby for rehydration while working between his many outdoor pursuits. His current rotation of water bottles includes Nalgene's 48-ounce wide-mouth bottle, YETI's Rambler, and Hydro Flask's Standard-Mouth Bottle.

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• Basic Kitchen Equipment

Sip or Chug: I Tested 8 Stainless Steel Water Bottles to Find the Best Ones for Everyday Use

My top picks included bottles from Owala, Hydro Flask, and Contigo.

Grace Kelly is the Commerce Editor for Serious Eats and has been writing for various media outlets since 2015.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Serious Eats / Grace Kelly

The Winners, at a Glance

What we learned, the criteria: what to look for in a stainless steel water bottle, our favorite stainless steel water bottles, the competition.

• Why We're the Experts

Straight to the Point

Our overall favorite was the Owala Free Sip Vacuum Water Bottle ; it was leakproof and portable, and we liked that it had both straw and “chug” drinking options. For a no-frills-but-still-great bottle, grab the Hydro Flask 24 oz Wide Mouth With Flex Straw . 

My water bottle and I are inseparable. I stick it in my car cup holder when I run errands, bring it to the gym, and tote it around in my purse. That all being said, I have some high standards: I want a smooth sipper that won’t splash or leak; the top should be easy to open and close, and it shouldn’t have too many hard-to-clean nooks and crannies. It should also keep water reasonably cool if you throw a few ice cubes inside (and the ice should easily fit through the opening). I award bonus points if it fits into my car cup holder and bag. 

I tested seven stainless steel models to find a great everyday water bottle. Some had built-in straws, others had simple screw-off tops, and all of them promised decent cold retention. (Note: all but one had a 24-ounce capacity—the outlier was 26 ounces). Here’s what I found.

The Best Overall Water Bottle

Owala freesip vacuum insulated water bottle.

I loved that this bottle had two sipping choices—a straw and a chug spout. Sipping through both was smooth and drip- and spurt-free. It was also leakproof, had a nice grip because of two indents on either side, and fit snugly in a car cup holder. Overall, this is a bottle I'd use all the time.

The Best Compact Bottle for Your Car (or Your Backpack)

Contigo courtland chill 24 oz insulated stainless steel water bottle with wide mouth lid.

If you don’t want to spend more than $20 on a water bottle, the Contigo Courtland Chill is a great choice. It had an easy-to-use lock and was smooth to drink from thanks to its narrow opening (shaped like that of a coffee cup lid), even though it didn’t have a straw option. It also did an impressive job keeping water chilled. 

The Best No-Frills Water Bottle with an Easy-to-sip-from Lid

Hydro flask 24 oz. wide mouth with flex straw.

The Hydro Flask is a great no-frills water bottle that does a solid job on all counts. I liked that the body was narrow and slim—it made it ultra-portable. Its cap had a built-in straw that was easy to drink from and its wide mouth made it a cinch to fill.

The Best Tumbler-Style Water Bottle for the Trendy (or the Really, Really Thirsty)

Simple modern 40 oz trek tumbler with handle and straw lid.

I'm no curmudgeon who lives under a rock—I've seen the insulated tumbler craze. So, my colleague Riddley tested these behemoth bottles and found a winner that'll keep you hydrated and make you look good doing it. The Simple Modern was leakproof (a rarity in tumbler-land) and kept water sub-45°F for 16 hours, a feat many other tumblers couldn't replicate.

• Usability Tests: I sipped water from each water bottle at least 25 times, using each throughout the day and bringing them with me to the gym. I also evaluated how easy they were to fill with water and ice cubes.
• Spill Test: I filled each water bottle with water and knocked it over five times onto a surface lined with paper towels, noting if it leaked.
• Cold Retention Test: I filled each water bottle with 100 grams of ice and 300 grams of chilled water and checked the temperature with an instant-read thermometer every hour for 24-plus hours. 
• Cleanup Tests: I hand-washed each water bottle with a bottle brush and soapy water, noting how easy or difficult it was to do so. I also ran the dishwasher-safe bottles and parts through the dishwasher, checking for any damage afterward.
• Durability Test: I dropped each water bottle five times onto a gravel driveway to examine durability.

Straws Made for the Smoothest Sipping Experience

Five of the water bottles I tested featured screw-on lids with large openings for “chugging” water. This style of bottle was more prone to splashing and overall messier drinking. Two bottles featured straws, which direct water more precisely than a chug-style opening; I preferred this style for a smooth (and splash-free) sipping experience. My favorite bottle actually featured both a straw and a chug-style opening, allowing me to drink in big gulps or small sips. Variety is the spice of life, right?

An Intuitive Lid with a Smaller Sipping Opening Was Best

I preferred water bottles that were easy to use in terms of lids and locking mechanisms, like the Hydro Flask, which had the simplest lid design of them all: it featured a screw-on lid with a straw mouthpiece that lifts up—easy peasy. The GSI Microlite 720 Flip , while leakproof, had a rather confusing lock mechanism, and the lid required me to actively pull it open instead of automatically popping open once unlocked, which I expected. The sipping port was also inset, and I found it difficult to get my mouth close enough to drink cleanly. The Yeti Rambler bottle featured a two-component lid (a plastic chug section and a separate cap to cover it), which made for some messy mistakes; on more than one occasion, I accidentally took off both pieces and splashed myself with water. Generally, water bottles with simpler and smaller drinking openings (like the Owala, Contigo, and Hydro Flask) were less messy, and I preferred drinking from them.

Most Bottles Are Great at Keeping Water Cool

To test cold retention, I filled each bottle with 100 grams of ice and 300 grams of water chilled to 37°F. During the temperature checks, I noticed that the water first went down to around 34°F, likely due to the ice chilling it. Most bottles’ ice completely melted around the 12-hour mark, but the water was still very cold, averaging 34°F. While the GSI (which has double wall insulation) kept water chilled the longest (it was at 38°F after 28 hours), usability factors brought it down in our rankings. 

The takeaway from this testing was twofold. First, price didn’t have a massive effect on cold retention—the cheapest bottle kept water chilled longer than some pricier models. Second, I learned that cold retention was actually rather irrelevant, since all bottles kept water cool (sub-50°F) for at least 24 hours, and most people won’t require their everyday bottle to do more than that.

Bases with Small Diameters Had Greater Portability 

I preferred water bottles with base diameters of 2.75 to 3 inches—they were easier to fit into car cup holders and generally made for more portable bottles. The Hydro Flask and Contigo both had bases that were 2.75 inches in diameter, making them ultra-portable. While the Owala had a slightly larger base (3 inches), it was still narrow enough to snugly fit into a cup holder. The Yeti, which had a base diameter of 3.25 inches (the largest of the lineup) was too large to fit into a cup holder and too bulky to be easily placed in a purse. That said, if you’re carrying it in a hiking backpack on the trail, size probably won’t be a problem, but weight might: it was 1.4 pounds empty, making it the heaviest bottle in the lineup. 

Dings and Dents Weren’t a Big Deal (Though They Don’t Look Pretty)

While the Owala and Hydro Flask got dinged up quite a bit during our durability testing, I found that although being aesthetically unappealing, the dents had no effect on the overall experience of drinking from the bottle. However, both brands do sell silicone boots to help protect the bottom ( this one from Hydro Flask and this one from Owala , although Amazon sells lots of third-party ones —just check the dimensions). The Lifefactory did fairly better than the other bottles during the durability test, likely because of the built-in silicone cap on the base.

There Were No Issues with Leaks

I conducted a leak test with the bottles closed/lids capped, and none of them leaked. However, if you were to have the bottle open, yes, it would spill water if knocked over. The Hydro Flask will do this if you leave the straw-sipping part up—once it’s down, I didn’t have any issues.

Serious Eats / Grace Kelly / Amanda Suarez

The best stainless steel water bottles have a small base, don’t leak, are smooth to drink from with a small mouthpiece, and have a simple lid design. I also preferred bottles with a straw, which made for smoother sips. Bottles with a base diameter of 2.75 to 3 inches were generally more portable, and the lighter the bottle, the better in terms of carrying comfort.

The Best Water Bottle

What we liked: This water bottle was a pleasure to use and drink from overall, but my favorite thing about it was the dual straw and chug mouthpieces. Both were smooth to drink from and gave you the choice of taking small sips or larger gulps (if you’re really thirsty). I also liked the lock lid, which popped right open when the button was pressed and ensured a leakproof seal. 

What we didn’t like: The bottle was a tad wider (by .25 inches) than our other two top picks, but I was still able to fit it into a car cup holder and tote bag. The base dinged up quite a bit when dropped, but the dents didn’t affect usability. That said, you can buy a bottle boot to protect the bottle’s bottom, if looks matter to you.

• Volume: 24 fluid ounces
• Materials: Stainless steel, plastic
• Base diameter: 3 inches
• Height: 10.75 inches
• Weight: 13.7 ounces
• Sipping style: Straw and chug
• Dishwasher-safe: Lid and straw only
• How long it kept water chilled under 50°F: 27 hours

Another Great Water Bottle

What we liked: The Contigo punched above its weight and was a fraction of the price of some bottles in our lineup. I loved the smooth but grippy bottle body, and the lid had an intuitive and easy-to-use lock system that prevented leaks. And even though it didn’t have a straw, the mouthpiece was quite small, which made for a smooth sipping experience. It also beat out some of the pricier models (*cough* Yeti *cough*) when it came to cold retention. It was one of our favorites as far as portability, too.

What we didn’t like: I would have preferred if there was a straw option, but this was still a great water bottle. It got minor dents and dings during our durability testing, and the narrow mouthpiece was slightly hard to clean, but neither issue was a deal-breaker.

• Base diameter: 2.75 inches
• Height: 11 inches
• Weight: 14.3 ounces
• Sipping style: Sipping port (no straw)
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes
• How long it kept water chilled under 50°F: 29-plus hours

The Best No-Frills Water Bottle

What we liked: Lightweight, easy to use, and with a simple straw for sipping, the Hydro Flask was a solid, no-frills water bottle. It also had a small base, which made it perfect for bringing along in the car.

What we didn’t like:  The only downsides were that it was expensive and it dinged up fairly easily—but the good news is you can buy a removable, silicone boot to protect it. The only other qualm I had was that sometimes the water exuberantly spurted from the mouthpiece upon sipping.

• Base diameter: 2.75 inches
• Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Sipping style: Straw
• Dishwasher-safe: Yes (it’s best to wash the straw and lid on the top rack)
• How long it kept water chilled under 50 °F: 25 hours

What we liked: If you're gonna hop on the trend train and buy a tumbler, I recommend this $30, monochrome pick. Sure, it's not a Stanley, but I still think this bottle stacks up mighty fine. It's leakproof (Stanley isn't), has a narrow base that fits nicely into a cup holder, and it kept water cold for 16 hours—that's twice as long as my workday. This last point is a huge win for me; I love a cold glass of water, and if I'm going to sip 40 ounces of it throughout the day, I want it to stay nice and chilly.

What we didn't like: We had some trouble screwing on the thin lid, but once we matched the threads up it was smooth sailing.

• Volume:  40 ounces
• Materials:  Stainless steel
• Weight:  1 lb
• Fits in a car cup holder:  Yes
• Sipping style:  Straw
• Dishwasher-safe:  Yes

Serious Eats / Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm

• GSI Microlite 720 Flip : While I liked the petite size of this bottle (it was the second shortest in the lineup), the lid was confusing; it was unclear when it was locked or not, and you had to pry it open when it was unlocked. Plus, the sipping opening was inset and had a plastic rim, meaning your nose bonked the lid and you really had to stick your mouth in to reach it. However, it did the best job at keeping water cool—after nearly 30 hours, the water was still only 38°F. So if having cold water for more than a day is important to you, this could be the bottle to buy. 
• Lifefactory 24-Ounce Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Sport Bottle : This bottle was largely unremarkable. While the smaller chug-style sipping port was alright to drink from, I had trouble getting ice into it, and the threaded cap was often hard to screw in. 
• Takeya 24-Ounce Actives Insulated Water Bottle With Spout Lid : I liked the grippy bottom on this bottle, but the little screw cap for the sipping port felt superfluous, and the port itself was just a tad too large for smooth, comfortable sipping. 
• Yeti Rambler 26-Ounce Water Bottle : This 26-fluid-ounce behemoth (it was the closest size to 24 ounces that Yeti offers) was the largest bottle in the lineup, which made it difficult to fit into a bag or backpack (and it most definitely won’t fit into a cup holder). It was also the heaviest, clocking in at 1.4 pounds. The two-part lid (which is made up of a chug spout lid and cap to cover it) gave me trouble, since I would often accidentally unscrew both, go to take a sip, and splash myself with water. That all said, it’s a durable, large bottle that could be useful for longer trips.

How should I clean a stainless steel water bottle?

The best way to clean a stainless steel water bottle by hand is with a bottle scrub brush and hot, soapy water. A dishwasher is also an option for bottles that are dishwasher-safe, but be sure to note which parts are top rack-only. 

How often should I clean my stainless steel water bottle? 

If you use your bottle often, we recommend cleaning it everyday use since minerals, mold, and mildew can build up in the lids and at the bottom of the bottle. Yuck! 

Can I put hot coffee or other hot liquids in a stainless steel water bottle? 

While some of the bottles we tested did claim to keep hot liquids hot, we don’t recommend putting hot coffee or tea in a water bottle; many of the sipping ports aren’t ideal for sipping hot drinks and coffee can also leave an unpleasant odor. Instead, use a designated travel mug . 

Can bacteria grow in stainless steel water bottles? 

Yes, if you don’t clean your water bottle after using it, all kinds of unideal stuff can build up over time, including bacteria .

What size water bottle is the best?

While it depends on your hydration needs, we found that 24-ounce capacity water bottles held a good amount of water while still being portable. They fit into our car cup holders, too, which was a nice perk that makes them a good gift for regular commuters.

What is the best material for a water bottle?

While it is up to you, we prefer stainless steel water bottles because they are better at keeping water cool—if you like your water iced, they are more likely to keep it insulated and chilled than other materials. Glass is a good option when it comes to safety (there's no chance of chemicals leaching into your water over time), but it is breakable. And while most plastic reusable water bottles are BPA-free, researchers are concerned that other chemicals may be used instead .

Can I put soda or other fizzy drinks into my water bottle?

We don't recommend putting anything carbonated into a stainless steel water bottle, since the pressure can build up inside. This can lead to leaks and/or cause the lid to burst off, ruining the threading on your water bottle opening, and soaking everything nearby.

Which is better: the Yeti or HydroFlask bottle?

While the HydroFlask was one of our winners in this review, the Yeti is still a great choice if you're looking for a sturdy bottle. You can read more about the differences between the two bottles in this article . Yeti has also come out with a smaller, less bulky version of the bottle we tested (it also includes a straw, which seems nice), which you can find here .

Why We're the Experts

• Grace Kelly is the associate commerce editor at Serious Eats. 
• Prior to this, she tested equipment and ingredients for America’s Test Kitchen. She's worked as a journalist and has done stints as a cook and bartender. 
• She is passionate about reusable water bottles and carries one with her at all times.
• She has written dozens of reviews for Serious Eats, including petty knives , tinned fish , fish spatulas , and tortilla presses , among others.
• For this review, we tested seven reusable, stainless steel water bottles. To do so, we examined them to see if they were leak-proof and tested their cold retention, durability, and usability (how they were to fill, sip from, and tote around).

Cape Cod Health News. " Are You Drinking Germs and Mold? "

More Serious Eats Recipes

The Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2024

Top-tested picks that are leak-proof, durable and offer excellent temperature retention.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Insulated Water Bottle

Stanley iceflow fast flow water bottle.

Best Value Insulated Water Bottle

Takeya originals vacuum insulated stainless steel water bottle.

Most Versatile Insulated Water Bottle

Yeti rambler water bottle.

Best Slim Insulated Water Bottle

S'well stainless steel water bottle.

Best Insulated Water Bottle for Hot and Cold Drinks

Zojirushi stainless steel water bottle.

Best Insulated Water Bottle with Handle

Larq swig top insulated stainless steel water bottle.

Best Insulated Water Bottle with a Straw

Owala freesip insulated stainless steel water bottle with straw.

Best Insulated Water Bottle for Travel

Hydro flask trail series water bottle.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we've tested thousands of beverage-related products in the last couple of decades. In our most recent side-by-side Lab test, we tested 37 water bottles, enlisted over 40 consumer testers and utilized more than 1,031 ounces of water . Through our in-Lab and real-life testing, we were able to narrow down the long list of insulated water bottles on the market to this batch that excelled in temperature retention, durability, cleanability and so much more.

You can read about how we evaluate insulated water bottles in our Lab — plus everything you need to know to shop for your perfect water bottle — at the end of this guide. Looking for more water bottle options? Check out our guides to the best filtered water bottles or the best smart water bottles , and don't forget to check out our Air Up water bottle review .

While Stanley Cups are having a viral moment on Tiktok, we want to introduce you to our top-tested water bottle from the same brand — the Stanley IceFlow. GH test engineer Alec Scherma found it to be one of the more unique bottles out there. The drinking spout's design allows for faster drinking and features an easy screw-off cap.

The bottle's handle is extremely sturdy. Though it's close to the spout, it rotates down so it's not in the way while drinking. It also features a hook that holds the bottle's cap "I thought the design of the lid was super smart where you can hook it onto the handle and it stays on there pretty securely. You can even drink with the lid on the handle!" said one tester. While this bottle is dishwasher-safe, you can also remove the entire mouthpiece to hand wash it.

"I like how light this water bottle is and it still keeps my ice water pretty cold throughout the day," said a tester. "I also love the 'fast flow lid.' I love this kind of water bottle sip." Some testers noted that it would have been nice if the bottle had a non-slip bottom or sleeve because the bottle can be loud if slammed onto a countertop.

Looking for a more affordable Stanley option? The Stanley Quick Flip Go Bottle also tested very well in Lab and consumer testing.

The Takeya Originals Water Bottle comes in multiple sizes and colors, but we especially recommend this 24-ounce option for how easy it is to transport and for its affordable price. The cap is easy to unscrew, the cap is easy to drink out of and its matte finish makes it easy to grasp.

The wide mouth means the bottle is easy to fill and clean. It's dishwasher safe, but we have found after long-term testing that the mouthpiece needs some hand washing to ensure all nooks and crannies are fully cleaned (especially if you wear lipstick while drinking from it).

In our Lab tests, this bottle didn't dent or leak, and one consumer tester noted, "I used this when going to the gym, and I loved that it had a big handle to hold the bottle when going between places! It also didn't have any leakage when holding from the handle, which impressed me as well."

The Yeti Rambler is a highly versatile insulated water bottle that is offered in a variety of sizes, shapes, drinking spouts and colorways. This 26-ounce Rambler is a great everyday option that's comfortable to hold, doesn't sweat and is easy to drink out of, especially with the chug cap drinking spout. We especially love that the lids are all interchangeable among the various Rambler bottles that range in size from 12 ounces to 64 ounces. This water bottle is also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning and the wide mouth also makes it easy to wash by hand — and add ice cubes.

In Lab tests, this water bottle didn't leak and retained temperature rather well. We had a few consumer testers try this bottle, and one said, "I used it while traveling during the holidays. It fit well into the water bottle pocket of my backpack. The handle on the bottle made it easy to grab and carry. It definitely kept my water cold throughout the entire day. It did not fit into any of the cup holders of the car, which was a little annoying during a long drive." All testers noted how easy the chug cap was to drink from.

Our consumer testers appreciated how slim this bottle is, fitting into most backpacks, side pockets and car cup holders. This is the only triple-layered insulated water bottle on this list, which is impressive for how slim it is. According to S'well, the construction is supposed to keep beverages cold for 36 hours and hot for 18, and it resists any condensation from forming on the exterior of the bottles. We can confirm that it retained temperature very well. After 24 hours of temperature monitoring in the Lab, it only fluctuated by 10 degrees, which was far less than other insulated bottles we tested. It also didn't leak or spill in testing, but it did dent when we dropped it.

This bottle is available in 9-, 17- and 25-ounce sizes, and the brand often releases new colors and designs. Keep in mind, however, that you'll have to invest in a good bottle brush for this insulated water bottle since it is not dishwasher-safe and has a rather narrow mouth. (That means you may also struggle to fit ice into it, unless you have a nugget ice machine .)

We love that this water bottle from Zojirushi has the ease of a drinking spout and a lid that covers and protects it. The lid screws on and locks so it's great for tossing in a bag without the worry of accidental leaks. When it's time to drink, the pop-top opens with the click of a button. Keep in mind though that this water bottle isn't dishwasher-safe and requires some extra care when cleaning. Its sleek design and variety of colors are a plus, but the real wow factor is how well it keeps drinks at temperature. It excelled at temperature retention in our Lab tests; it also didn't leak or dent when we dropped it.

This versatile bottle has a small drink spout, which makes it ideal for hot beverages, but you should still always exercise caution since this bottle keeps hot beverages very hot. It's also great for keeping cold water chilled. One consumer tester shared, "I use this bottle to drink warm water and tea. I find it stays warm for a long time. I like how well it insulates. Once I forgot to bring it to work and left it in my car with hot water, and it was still warm went I came back."

RELATED : The Best Travel Coffee Mugs

The LARQ Water Bottle is lightweight and durable with a built-in soft-touch, wide-grip handle . This model comes in three different, neutral colorways and two different capacities: 23 and 34 ounces. While this insulated water bottle is compatible with three different mouthpieces, we especially like the swig top for ease of drinking. The lid is leak-proof, but it doesn't open with a button — just manually — so it might be harder to open for some. In our Lab testing, this bottle retained temperature well and didn't dent when dropped.

This one is conveniently dishwasher-safe (unlike many of our other picks), but it's easy to hand-wash as well. Add LARQ's filter straw attachment to upgrade this pick to a filtered water bottle.

The Owala FreeSip comes in a variety of different colorways (with both multicolored and neutral options) . It also comes in 24-, 32- and 40-ounce capacities, and there's even a 16-ounce kids' line. What makes this bottle especially versatile is how there are two ways to drink from it: Use the FreeSip spout as a built-in straw, or tilt the water bottle back to drink from the spout opening.

We especially like that the locking push-button lid ensures that the water bottle doesn't leak, which we proved in our Lab. The plastic mouthpiece is dishwasher safe, but it's recommended that you hand-wash the rest of the bottle to preserve the vibrant powder coat finish. The strap that keeps the mouthpiece closed also doubles as a handle for carrying, but one consumer tester did note that the handle is narrow and isn't as comfortable to carry as other water bottles.

Hydro Flask's 21-ounce Trail Series water bottle is slim and noticeably lightweight with walls that are made of thinner stainless steel than competitors. It has a perforated handle, which makes it lighter and easier to carry on long treks. It's a great insulated choice for taking on the go whether you are hiking, camping or traveling.

This bottle comes in a few different colorways and 21- and 24-ounce sizes. If you are looking for a larger water bottle, the brand offers the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Trail bottles in 32- and 40-ounce sizes. Keep in mind that Hydro Flask recommends that you hand wash all of its water bottles. In our Lab tests, this bottle didn't leak and retained temperature well, but it gained a few small dents in our drop test.

How we test insulated water bottles

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, we evaluate each water bottle for ease of use, performance and durability. We've tested countless water bottles over the years, and in our latest round, we tested 37 insulated water bottles side-by-side to evaluate performance and ease of use.

When we evaluate performance, we test how well they retain temperature and whether they are leak-proof. Pictured here is our drop-tester machine with dyed water that leaked out of a poorly performing water bottle.

To test whether a bottle will leak, we fill each water bottle with the same amount of water and food dye. We knock over each water bottle and let it sit on its side for 30 minutes, then check to see if any water seeps through. We also shake each water bottle at full capacity to see if any water escapes.

When it comes to insulated water bottles we evaluate each water bottle to see how well they can retain temperatures. We fill every bottle to maximum capacity with water and then remove a specific amount of water from each bottle, replacing it with a calculated amount of ice. Then the internal water temperature of each bottle is documented multiple times over 24 hours to determine which bottles retain temperature best.

To test durability, we use our drop tester machine. We drop water bottles three times each from a height of 5 feet and note any damage that occurs.

To evaluate ease of use, we consider how each bottle opens and closes. Using either a dishwasher or dish soap and a brush, we test how easy it is to clean each water bottle.

In addition to Lab tests, we send water bottles to consumer testers to get their opinions on how water bottles fare in real life.

What to look for when buying the best insulated water bottle

✔️ Material: The primary material for insulated water bottles is stainless steel. Stainless steel is relatively lightweight and great for keeping hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold, but it's not always dishwasher-safe. Most high-performing insulated water bottles are either double-wall or triple-wall insulated which helps retain temperature through additional layers of stainless steel.

✔️ Size: Insulated water bottles come in a variety of sizes, even within each model. They can be as small as 12 ounces, which is perfect for a child or for fitting into a small bag. They can also be as large as a gallon, which is convenient for a picnic with friends or long car rides. A common everyday size for an insulated water bottle is around 24 ounces (which is a size we commonly test). It's small enough to fit in a backpack but large enough that you don’t need to refill often. The larger the water bottle, the wider it likely is, so it's less likely to fit in cupholders.

✔️ Drinking spout: There is a drinking spout for everyone, and some brands even offer multiple drinking spouts to appeal to different customers.

• There are insulated water bottles with wide mouths which are great for big gulps of water but are more prone to spilling if you're not careful.
• Small mouths like sipping spouts might offer less water flow, but there is less chance of spilling and they're often good for hot beverages.
• Chug caps or larger spouts are great if you prefer to drink quickly without making a mess.
• And a bottle with a straw is helpful when you’re on the go or working out.
• There are even newer hybrid drinking spouts like with the Owala FreeSip where you can sip upright through the built-in straw, or tilt the water bottle back to drink from the spout opening.

✔️ Additional features: Some bottles feature handles for carrying around, non-slip sleeves so bottles stay put on countertops or remain in your hands even when sweaty and an additional larger bottle opening for easier cleaning or filling bottles with ice.

What is the best insulated water bottle?

When it came to determining the best insulated water bottles on the market, we collected and evaluated hundreds of data points across several different tests. While we only feature water bottles that performed well, our top performers were from Stanley , Yeti , S'well and Zojirushi . These water bottles outperformed the others — retaining temperature, not leaking and offering great ease of use. They were also popular among our consumer testers.

How do you clean an insulated water bottle?

All water bottles should be cleaned regularly to eliminate bacteria and prevent mold growth. If a water bottle must be hand-washed, look for one with a wide mouth and fewer parts, and use a bottle brush to thoroughly clean the interior with soap and warm water. If a bottle has a straw, we recommend that you hand-wash it for a thorough clean, even if the bottle states that it is dishwasher-safe.

If you're not a fan of using a bottle brush to clean an insulated water bottle, ensure that it’s dishwasher-safe before purchasing. The dishwasher's tough environment can deform the seal on bottles that aren't dishwasher safe and ruin the exterior over time, so always check if a bottle is dishwasher-safe.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Eva Bleyer has tested a variety of kitchen gear, including gas ranges , microwaves , kitchen scales and blenders . She also holds a B.S. in Food Studies, Nutrition and Public Health from New York University, where she studied sustainability practices. Eva has tested many of these water bottle picks at home and on the go.

Alec Scherma is the Good Housekeeping Institute's test engineer. He conducted this round of testing 37 insulated water bottles. Alec is very familiar with testing products for their insulation, as he's also tested dozens of coolers and cooler backpacks for the Kitchen Appliances Lab.

Nicole Papantoniou oversees the Good Housekeeping Institute's kitchen gear testing. She has been testing kitchen gear professionally for nearly 10 years, and she is constantly trying new water bottles in both the Lab and in her daily life. She keeps them on hand for years to ensure they’re put through their paces. Her favorites are lightweight and dishwasher-safe, but she uses an assortment to find new ones she can’t put down.

Eva (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she tests kitchen gear, home appliances and culinary innovations. She graduated from NYU with a bachelor of science in food studies, nutrition and public health and is a trained chef through the Natural Gourmet Institute. Eva has more than 10 years of experience in the food industry, working as a food stylist, personal chef and marketing manager.

Alec Scherma (he/him) is the Good Housekeeping Institute ’s test engineer, where he helps to create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering.

Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal .

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• Outdoor gear

The 8 Best Water Bottles

By Eve O'Neill and Sam Schild

Reusable water bottles that are both good-looking and functional seem like a necessity in our modern, hydration-obsessed world.

But finding the right one to match your personal taste can be a challenge—it depends on what you’re looking for amid the riot of colors, shapes, and features.

After putting in more than 120 hours of research—and testing over 100 bottles since 2014—we’ve chosen the eight best water bottles in a number of materials and styles.

They include our most versatile pick , which has elbowed its way past more well-known competition, and an inexpensive bottle with a straw , beloved for its functionality in any driving scenario.

Whether you’re looking for a bottle to drink from while flying , a glass bottle (if you’re averse to plastic), a  tapered bottle , a plastic bottle (if you’re averse to high prices), a fancier bottle , or a stainless steel model , all of our favorite water bottles offer a little extra to anyone who’s annoyed by imperfect hydration.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, the most versatile bottle: takeya actives insulated water bottle with spout lid (22 ounces), a simple stainless steel bottle and standard lid: hydro flask standard mouth (21 ounces), our favorite bottle for the car: camelbak eddy+ (25 ounces), the best glass water bottle: purifyou premium (22 ounces), the best tapered bottle: mira cascade (17 ounces), the best plastic water bottle: thermos hydration bottle (24 ounces), an ideal air travel companion: camelbak podium (21 ounces), an upgrade pick: purist mover (18 ounces), other good water bottles, how we picked, how we tested, the competition, care and maintenance.

Since we first created this guide, in 2014, we’ve tested more than 100 different bottles over many hundreds of hours. We also spoke with a lot of experts. Given the popularity of metal water bottles, we wanted to get some insight into how that double-walled insulation works. So we called NASA, the best experts on thermodynamics we could think of. Via email, we interviewed Wesley Johnson, a cryogenics research engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.

We also spoke with urban planner Josselyn Ivanov, who wrote her masters thesis on the decline of publicly available water, aka drinking fountains, for MIT’s Department of Urban Studies and Planning. “In the absence of investment and maintenance [in drinking fountains], many people fill the void by hauling around their own personalized infrastructure,” she told us.

And across four different writers (Sam Schild contributed the most recent round of testing, in mid-2022) and ten years of work, we’ve seen more than 100 iterations of the same object. From the hard-plastic Nalgene that steamrolled college campuses in the 2000s to a $5,000-plus Chanel bottle (which looks freshly looted from Blackbeard’s treasure chest), these water bottles all do the same thing. When you’ve used water bottles with triple-digit price tags as well as much less expensive versions, you know which one works best.

Pretty much anyone can benefit from having a water bottle they love. Carrying a reusable water bottle is better for the environment and more cost effective than buying bottled water. Bottled-water production in the US alone in 2007 required somewhere between 32 million and 54 million barrels of oil, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters (PDF) . That’s roughly 2,000 times as much as the energy cost of producing tap water, and bottled-water sales in the US have grown to 15.3 billion gallons as of 2021, from 8.76 billion gallons in 2007.

For shoppers, bottled water is also a thousand times more expensive than tap water. Add in the fact that in 2014 nearly 64% of all bottled water sold in the US was nothing more than pricey, prepackaged tap water (PDF) , and it becomes difficult to deny the value of a well-made reusable water bottle.

Takeya Actives Insulated Water Bottle with Spout Lid (22 ounces)

The best stainless steel water bottle.

The spout on this bottle is easy to drink from (and simpler to use than a sports cap), and the flip lid stays secure and out of your face. And the bottle has a wide mouth, so you can effortlessly add ice and supplements.

Buying Options

(limited colors)

Size options (ounces): 18 , 22 , 24 , 32 , 40 , 64 Lids available: Spout (included), Straw Dishwasher safe: lid, yes; body, no

Get this if: You’d like a chameleon of a bottle, something that can adapt to almost any situation, whether you’re sitting at a desk, commuting on a subway, or working out at the gym.

Why it’s great: This double-walled, stainless steel bottle is marketed for gym-goers. But even if you’re not seeking a water bottle for working out, the Takeya Actives has a lid that’s a total standout.

The plastic top features a spout with a twist-on flip cap. Spout lids flow as easily as if you were drinking from an open glass. Yet they won’t splash contents if you’re cantering down the sidewalk at a brisk clip or powering through a sweaty treadmill workout.

The spout lid on the Takeya stands out because you can lock it after you flip it open—so it doesn’t hit your face. And when it’s closed, it covers the drinking surface completely. The whole thing twists off to reveal a 2¼-inch-wide mouth opening, so you can add in whatever you like: Load the bottle with ice, add an electrolyte powder, plop in some lemon wedges.

A silicone rubber boot, or base, comes standard on this bottle and prevents it from slipping or making noise on hard surfaces. Takeya also offers a straw lid, which you can purchase separately. We tested the straw lid, and it was leak-free; we recommend getting one if you primarily want to drink from this bottle while driving.

These bottles come in an array of colors and sizes, and our pick, the 22-ounce Takeya Actives, is the most recent size introduced to the lineup. After testing more than 100 bottles, we truly believe this is the Goldilocks size: not too big, not too small. It’s compatible with both cupholders and backpack pockets. And, like the final piece of a puzzle, it will slide nicely into that tiny bit of space remaining in your tote bag.

All of the Takeya bottle sizes we’ve tested have proved to be leak-free. And if you want a 32-ounce bottle, the Takeya Actives properly adapts the proportions of the bottle to accommodate the new capacity: It gets wider as well as taller, so this bottle remains stable when you set it down (though that does mean it’s too broad to fit in a standard cupholder).

Takeya’s website lists the lid as BPA-free, and it’s dishwasher safe (in the top rack). But hand-washing is recommended for the body. Takeya offers a limited lifetime warranty (you need a receipt).

Flaws but not dealbreakers: We’ve found very little not to love about this design. This is a bottle we think everyone can be very happy with.

Hydro Flask Standard Mouth (21 ounces)

Simple and reliable.

The Hydro Flask is an insulated steel bottle that’s pleasant to sip from and simple to carry, and it was completely leakproof in our tests.

Size options (ounces): 18 , 21 , 24 Lids available: Flex Cap (included), Sport Cap , Flex Straw Cap Dishwasher safe: no

Get this if: You want a reliable and versatile water bottle. This is a simple bottle, best for those who believe in doing one thing and doing it well.

Why it’s great: The Hydro Flask Standard Mouth is especially reliable. It’s an insulated, double-walled stainless steel water bottle with a powder-coated exterior (the permanent, lightly textured coating) and a plastic cap. Unlike aluminum bottles, this one won’t dent easily. Unlike glass bottles, this bottle won’t have issues with the bottom cracking. And unlike plastic bottles, it won’t deteriorate quickly while in use.

You can use this bottle with three different lids: the Flex Cap (included), Sport Cap , and Flex Straw Cap . We tested the first two caps, and neither leaked, but we prefer the Flex Cap to the Sport Cap. Usually, sport caps aren’t great at accounting for human error—the plastic can be very stiff and difficult to close with your mouth, so it’s easy to leave them halfway open. And if the bottle is lying on its side, water can occasionally leak through the air-intake valve.

If you tend to drink straight from the bottle, the Hydro Flask has a narrow, tapered metal edge. And it mimics the rim of a glass better than the lip on any other bottle we tested, including the round lip on the Klean Kanteen and the thick, industrial-feeling lip on the Yeti Rambler . The standard mouth opening is 1¾ inches wide—wide enough to fit ice but not so wide that water will slosh up your nose if you drink on the move.

Of the three sizes this bottle comes in, we think 21 ounces is the right capacity. This size is big enough to keep refills to a minimum but not as unwieldy as the 24-ounce bottle. (The 24-ounce Hydro Flask is tall and narrow and thus easy to tip over, and it feels large.) The cap is BPA-free, and Hydro Flask offers a limited lifetime warranty on this bottle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Complaints about the Hydro Flask are infrequent and few. However, while a silicone boot comes standard on the Takeya Actives bottle, for this Hydro Flask model, a boot is an add-on (it usually costs around $8).

Also, some people may not like that a portion of the drinking surface is exposed; the cap threads twist into the bottle rather than over the top and around the lip. We do like this design because sipping from a threaded drinking surface isn’t pleasant. But if the exposed drinking surface bothers you, several of our other picks—including the Takeya Actives , the Purifyou Premium , and the plastic Thermos Hydration Bottle —have lids that fully cover the drinking surface.

CamelBak Eddy+ (25 ounces)

Great for the car.

If you use a bottle with a straw, you won’t have to tilt your head back while drinking—the easiest way to quaff water and keep your focus on the road.

Size options (ounces): 20 , 25 , 32 Lids available: Straw (included), Chute Mag , Carry Cap Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You want something that’s easy to sip from while you’re driving, or you want something that encourages you to drink water throughout the day (our unscientific findings have led us to believe that straws make it easier to slurp down water).

Why it’s great: This bottle has an integrated straw in the lid that features a plastic bite valve to keep it sealed (something anyone who has owned a CamelBak hydration pack will be familiar with). Just bite down to open the straw and release to seal it shut. That leak-free lid makes this bottle an ideal driving companion—it fits in a cupholder and is easy to sip from while you’re keeping your eyes on the road. And if you transfer the bottle to a bag, the bite valve folds down into the lid, shielding it from too much contact with the bag’s contents.

Also, if you have daily hydration goals, there’s something about a straw that makes it easy to mindlessly consume the 20, 30, or 40 ounces of water you may have ahead of you. If this sounds like you, the Eddy+ comes in a 32-ounce size , which would be easy to fill once, plop next to your laptop, and hit your goal for the day.

The straw lid twists off to reveal a wide mouth that makes adding ice to your drink easy—handy if you like to keep your water cold. However, this is a plastic bottle, so adding ice could also make it sweaty.

You can swap out lids with two others from CamelBak: the Carry Cap and the Chute Mag (a spout lid we’ve tested and liked because of how easy it is to drink from, similar to the lid on our top pick ).

The Eddy+ is an updated model, and with this redesign CamelBak has addressed reports of the bite valve’s leaking or not functioning properly. The one we tested worked great, and neither the lid nor the valve leaked in our tests. This bottle is BPA-free, and all pieces—including the cap, lid, and straw—can go through the dishwasher. CamelBak offers a lifetime guarantee against defects in the manufacturing and materials, and the company will replace them if they’re defective.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: To get the water flowing, you do have to bite down on this straw and hold it while you drink, which may not appeal to some people. But overall we didn’t find that to be cumbersome, and we soon forgot all about it.

Purifyou Premium (22 ounces)

Prevents flavor from transferring.

This is the only glass bottle we’ve found where no plastic touches your water, and the bottle itself is housed in a protective silicone sleeve. But it won’t keep your water cold for long.

May be out of stock

Size options (ounces): 12 , 22 , 32 , 40 Lids available: stainless steel lined lid (included) Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You don’t want to drink out of plastic or metal, or you simply enjoy the heft and presence of a glass bottle.

Why it’s great: Our favorite glass bottle is the 22-ounce Purifyou Premium . It has a few design features that make it more functional than most, including the type of glass it’s made from, as well as an especially useful cap, which is also lined with stainless steel.

We recognize that some people just don’t want plastic touching their water. A major reason this bottle outperformed all the other glass options is it’s the only one we found that has a metal-lined cap (rather than some form of plastic). The simple utility of a finger loop on the cap was a surprise—it made the repetitive task of opening and closing the cap that much easier, compared with standard round caps.

We also like the small mouth on this bottle. When you drink from a wide-mouth glass bottle, such as the Lifefactory , it can seem like you’re drinking out of a jar. The downside is that the Purifyou is too narrow to accommodate ice cubes. But a glass bottle doesn’t retain heat or cold anyway, so we decided that wasn’t a problem.

The Purifyou is made of borosilicate glass, and that makes it special. Borosilicate glass resists thermal shock. This means if you take the bottle out of a hot dishwasher and fill it with cold or room-temperature water, it will resist shattering better than bottles made of common soda-lime glass.

We tested and liked the dimensions of the 22-ounce bottle, though it won’t fit in a traditional-size cupholder (the base is 3¼ inches wide). The body’s center is a little wide, and it’s not tapered like some others, but we had no problem holding it. Purifyou offers warranty coverage for all manufacturing defects, and (according to its Amazon page ) will replace the bottle if it “breaks within the first year” if you register online .

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Glass bottles are limiting. They’re excellent for carrying room-temperature water and that’s it, since they are poor insulators. Glass bottles also aren’t as durable as other options, despite being heavier. Also, if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, note that neither the silicone sleeve nor the cap on this bottle is recyclable, since the cap is made from two materials fused into one. If you have environmental concerns, the best approach is to buy a bottle you know you will use the most.

Mira Cascade (17 ounces)

Elegant, insulated, and splashless.

This small-mouth, tapered bottle is pleasant to hold—like a plastic drink bottle but one made of double-walled insulated stainless steel.

Size options (ounces): 12 , 17 Lids available: stainless steel lid (included) Dishwasher safe: lid, yes; body, no

Get this if: You want a bottle with a minimalist, classic shape and a cap that covers the drinking lip.

Why it’s great: The Mira Cascade is a double-walled insulated bottle made of stainless steel. Its lid threads over the drinking surface, so you won’t have to put your mouth on something that’s been getting dirty in your bag all day. The Mira’s tapered shape is reminiscent of a classic 20-ounce plastic soda bottle, and this bottle is nice to hold. It will keep the contents cold all day, and due to the bottle’s small opening, your beverage won’t splash your face while you’re drinking, as the Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle does.

The Mira Cascade is nearly identical to the S’well , another tapered bottle we like everything about—except the price. Since the Cascade is usually about half the price of the S’well, we naturally picked the less expensive option, which performs just as well.

The Mira Cascade has an elegant design, so it fits in at the office and other formal events: Pick the right color, and it could even match a tux. And it passed the leak test, so you don’t have to worry about this bottle’s contents ruining your day, your laptop, or your evening wear.

We think the 17-ounce size is ideal—it fits in a briefcase, in cupholders, and in water-bottle pockets. If you want a smaller or larger bottle, the Cascade also comes in a 12-ounce size.

The lid covers the drinking lip, so no matter where you toss this bottle, the surface that your mouth touches will be covered. Also, we think the Mira Cascade’s lid is just the right size, compared with the Corkcicle Canteen ’s lid, which is so small we were worried about losing it. Like most double-walled bottles, the bottle itself isn’t dishwasher safe, but the lid is. Mira sells replacement lids and lid gaskets , too.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: Since the lid covers the drinking lip, the bottle’s threads are on the drinking surface. While we generally don’t love the feeling of threads on the outside lip, these don’t protrude much, and we quickly got used to the feeling. Also, because of the 1.35-inch opening, it’s impossible to get prism-shaped ice cubes from a classic ice cube tray into the bottle. However, half-moon-shaped ice cubes do fit through the opening.

Thermos Hydration Bottle (24 ounces)

A budget option.

With a leakproof, push-button flip-top lid, this inexpensive and lightweight bottle should make anyone happy.

Size options (ounces): 24 Lids available: flip top (included) Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You value lightweight portability, and you like a good deal—two excellent qualities in a water bottle. This one is also dishwasher safe, unlike some other bottles we recommend.

Why it’s great: The super-affordable 24-ounce Thermos Hydration Bottle has been a pick since we first published this guide, in 2014, and it’s still here. (Thermos has made a few minor cosmetic changes over the years.) This is a plastic bottle with a plastic, flip-top lid and spout. It has passed years of leak tests, and the lid has a lock, so it will stay closed in your bag.

Another great feature of this bottle: Despite the fact that it holds 24 ounces—a capacity we’ve found to be cumbersome in a metal bottle—the Thermos possesses just the right proportions to be ergonomic and easy to carry.

This bottle weighs only 6.6 ounces. The textured, contoured design makes the Thermos easy to hold, too, and you can effortlessly drop ice cubes into the wide mouth. And after you reattach the lid, the spout is simple to drink out of. This design is a winning combination, the same as on a similar, insulated pick, the Takeya bottle. Also, the Thermos is made from Eastman Tritan BPA-free plastic.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: After using versions of the 24-ounce Thermos nearly constantly for seven years, we don’t have a lot of criticism. However, we do wish Thermos would sell this type of bottle in a few different sizes. Also, though the lid has a ring that you can turn to track your water intake, in practice we’ve found we barely use it. Still, it’s not hurting anything by being there.

CamelBak Podium 21oz Bike Bottle

A lightweight squeeze bottle.

This squeeze bottle is leakproof and light, so you can throw it into a carry-on bag for a flight. And the Podium is cheap enough that if the TSA makes you ditch it, you won’t be heartbroken.

Size options (ounces): 21 ,  24 Lids available: squeeze lid Dishwasher safe: yes

Get this if: You want a travel bottle. This bottle was invented for a bike cage, but a regular ol’ squeeze bottle is useful for so many things, specifically airport travel. Eve personally owns (and uses) just two types of water bottle, and this is one of them.

Why it’s great: Basic, lightweight, and cheap, a bike squeeze bottle makes a great travel companion, and we like the CamelBak Podium in particular. It has a twist lock—which provides extra assurance that the bottle is tightly closed when you toss it in a bag. Plus, it’s dishwasher safe.

For years, we looked for a reliable collapsible travel bottle, but we’ve been disappointed so many times: The Hydaway tastes plasticky, the Vapur and the Platypus collapse (in a bad way) , the HydraPak flops, and the Nomader doesn’t pack down very small. And the implied way to carry a travel bottle correctly—clipped to a backpack or belt loop—always leaves it swinging around haphazardly, in our experience. We’ve recommended all of these bottles in the past, but we’ve constantly been left wishing there were a better way.

A bike squeeze bottle is now our sincere recommendation for airport travel. In addition to being light and relatively compact, this bottle is inexpensive, so if the TSA takes it, you’ve lost only a few dollars, instead of an expensive insulated bottle. You could also bring the Thermos Hydration Bottle we recommend. But this CamelBak bottle has fewer moving parts, if you don’t want to fuss with the lid or flip lock on the Thermos. Our other recommendation would be to buy a plastic bottle in the airport, and then use it for the rest of your trip.

Two types of Podium are available: the original and the Podium Chill , which has a reflective material in the lining intended to help keep water cold. We haven’t found this lining makes any difference. In our tests, the liquid in insulated squeeze bottles warmed 17 degrees over six hours, the same as in a glass or unlined plastic bottle. For that reason, we wouldn’t bother with the lined version and instead recommend the original. CamelBak offers a limited lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: The lid on this bottle is not covered, so if you dislike the idea of a bottle swimming around in a bag with the drinking surface exposed, you may like the Thermos better. In addition, this bottle’s squeeze valve does not push in and out, as on other models. Instead, the mouthpiece is static, and the plastic piece inside releases water when you apply pressure to the bottle. So if you’re using this bottle for cycling, and you experience a ton of dust and dirt on your ride, some of it may get stuck in that mouthpiece.

Purist Mover (18 ounces)

Premium design and materials.

If you’re seeking an especially sleek-looking bottle, the Purist Mover is a good choice, and its (non-breakable) glass interior prevents flavors from transferring.

With store pickup or REI membership

Size options (ounces): 10 (Maker), 18 (Mover), 32 (Founder) Lids available: Element (twist lid), Union (spout lid), Scope (café lid) Dishwasher safe: no

Get this if: You’ve noticed that odors or flavors in your water bottle don’t go away, you want a bottle that looks like a design object, or you want one bottle that can hold both hot and cold drinks. Purist’s bottle has a (non-breakable) glass interior that prevents flavors from transferring, so there should be no taste issues like you get with stainless steel or plastic.

Why it’s great: The 18-ounce Purist Mover is a drink bottle designed within an inch of its life. With a special lining made to stop flavor transfers, an aesthetic that looks designed to fit into a Tesla’s dashboard, and a newly expanded range of caps, this is a refined bottle that can do it all—and it’s worth the high price.

The signature feature of the Purist is a glass-lined interior that prevents tastes and odors from transferring. Unlike traditional glass vacuum linings, the Purist’s is unbreakable (and so minimal you can barely notice it), since it’s applied as a thin, spray-on coating. You get the benefits of a glass bottle minus the weight or potential breakage, plus it keeps drinks hot or cold.

And in our experience, the Purist bottle works. We’ve had this bottle in testing for three years, including one episode where we left the Purist under a car seat for a month with kombucha in it. Someone finally got the courage to open the bottle and clean it out, and the next day a bottle full of water tasted like water and nothing else. Wirecutter’s Tim Barribeau—who is pathologically averse to the taste of coffee—found that even after cold-brew concentrate sat in the Purist for a weekend, water came out tasting fresh (after a simple wash of the bottle). Some tastes and smells lingered in the flip-top lid, but those disappeared after a good scrub.

There are three lids that work with the Purist water bottle: the simple, screw-top Element , the flip-top spout Union , and the Scope , a café lid designed for hot beverages. The lip of the bottle is on the thick side, so if drinking from a thick-walled bottle would bother you, we’d recommend either the Union or the Scope.

Though 18-ounce bottles can feel small, the Mover can hold more than advertised. The Union spout cap is hollow and raised above the top of the bottle, in contrast with the flat Element cap, which plunges downward. That means using the Union cap, you can fill the bottle to the brim; we did, and that’s when we discovered the bottle can hold up to 21 ounces.

Purist has a lifetime warranty that covers manufacturing defects.

Flaws but not dealbreakers: This bottle is clunky to drink out of if you use only the twist-off cap (the Element). So if you’re going to invest in the Purist, we recommend getting the spout lid (the Union) or the Scope cap (Purist’s version of a café cap). The Union spout cap is tricky to open due to its tight seal (but we found that if you pinch both sides of the spout, the cover pops off easily).

If you’re going camping: Consider the Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle , which is inexpensive, indestructible, and lightweight. It has more than 18,000 reviews on Amazon and a star rating of 4.8 out of 5, and we couldn’t agree more. For a decade now, we’ve been talking about why this isn’t among our picks.

But we still don’t include it, because in day-to-day life it’s sort of annoying. You can’t drink out of it while walking, the attached cap gets in your face, and it doesn’t fit a cupholder or a backpack pocket. Out there in the wild, it’s the ultimate weapon. Back here in the urban jungle, it’s just kind of a klutz. So, to summarize, we love this bottle, but specifically for camping. And that’s outside the scope of what we test for in this guide.

If you’re set on getting a collapsible travel bottle: Consider the Nomader 22-ounce collapsible bottle, which was our travel pick in 2018. It has stood the test of time, whereas other travel bottles have sprung leaks. If you must have a travel bottle, this one is the easiest to fill and drink from. Our big concern is that this bottle doesn’t roll down particularly small, so it’s up to you to decide whether the space savings are worth it.

If you want a spout lid on a lightweight, plastic bottle: After a reimagining of the lid on the CamelBak Chute —resulting in the addition of a magnet to keep the lid open and out of the way while you’re drinking—we can’t find any serious negatives for this bottle. The Takeya Actives just barely nudges the Chute out of competition because the Takeya comes with the silicone base, and it’s often on sale. However, the Chute’s lid is compatible with our new recommendation for use while driving, the CamelBak Eddy+ .

We’ve been at this for ten years. And, as always, we start by reading trusted editorial sources, in this case outlets such as Gear Patrol , GearLab , and Outside . In addition, each year, we listen to the opinions of Wirecutter’s readers—we’ve incorporated a number of great suggestions from the comments on previous iterations of this guide.

There are so many water bottles in the world that it’s helpful for us to outline what we don’t consider and why. When we find bottles with a pattern of complaints about build quality, usability, or leakage, we drop them from the list of possible test candidates. We also eliminate bottles made by companies that appear to have an opaque supply chain or no online presence outside of an Amazon listing. In any category, if we recommend a product, we want to make sure you won’t have a problem finding one to buy. And if a product is defective, you should be able to contact the manufacturer so that the company can make it right.

We no longer consider bottles made of aluminum because it dents too easily. And when possible we avoid bottles that have painted exteriors because the coating can tend to scratch; in certain categories, however, painted exteriors are the norm. We also set aside uncoated stainless steel bottles—if you leave an uncoated metal bottle in the sun, the exterior becomes too hot to hold.

Some other bottles, including the Klean Kanteen Wide Mouth, can easily serve as water bottles. But because of the caps offered (travel mug caps) or the sizes available (limited to smaller sizes), they are more suited to hot drinks. In the case of the Klean Kanteen, both things are true, so we consider it to be a travel mug. If that’s what you’re looking for, we have a guide to travel mugs for hot beverages .

For our most recent round of testing, in 2022, we tried nine new bottles and performed several tests to evaluate them. Here are the tests we regularly conduct:

We do leak tests. There are so many bottles that we can’t see recommending one that leaks in any way. We fill each bottle with water that’s dyed with food coloring. Then we place the bottle on its side over a paper towel for 24 hours and watch for leaks.

The leak test also takes into account how the lid seats on the bottle. We believe good design is human-centered design, and that you should be able to absent-mindedly screw the top back on and trust that the bottle is properly closed.

And we’ve discovered over time that rigid sport caps, like the ones you can get for Klean Kanteen or HydroFlask bottles, are not the best at preventing leaks because they’re prone to user error. Such caps make perfect sense on squeezable sport bottles. But the sport caps that come on double-walled steel bottles are stiffer, so they’re easy to inadvertently leave open. It’s also difficult to tell at a glance whether the valve is fully closed.

We do temperature tests. For five years, we performed temperature tests with the goal of seeing which bottle kept its contents the coldest for the longest. Here are the results from 2017:

In this 2017 test, we filled each bottle with water at 47 degrees Fahrenheit, and then we took a temperature measurement every hour for 10 hours. What we’ve seen in years of testing is that almost every insulated bottle performs to within a few degrees of its competition. There are exceptions, but they’re rare. Companies love to make claims about how long a bottle can keep something hot or cold, but they all work basically the same.

Sometimes manufacturers make bottles with copper linings in an attempt to keep the contents even hotter or colder. It could work, and as Wesley Johnson, a cryogenics research engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, explained, “For spacecraft, we often use a similar technique for insulation.” The theory behind using copper in insulation (despite its being an excellent conductor normally) is based on the fact that heat transfers through three forms: solid conduction, gaseous convection, and radiation, Johnson told us. A double-walled bottle already stops solid conduction, and a vacuum-insulated bottle stops gaseous convection. “This leaves only radiation heat transfer between the walls,” Johnson said. And copper can work to stop that last method of heat loss. But it works only under a set of specific circumstances. “The main benefit of copper is that when it is polished, it is much more reflective of radiation heat transfer,” Johnson explained. So, “the copper liner needs to be: polished, installed in a vacuum, and done so in a manner that limits the amount of oxidation of the metal prior to pulling the vacuum.”

We have tested bottles with and without copper linings, and so far we haven’t found any advantage to using copper. The Yeti Rambler is “constructed with a copper plate to protect against UV,” according to the company’s PR reps. But neither Klean Kanteen nor Hydro Flask includes any copper in its designs, and all the bottles still insulate within degrees of one another.

We consider bottle proportions. After nine years, we’re convinced that 20- to 22-ounce bottles are the perfect size. Although 17-ounce bottles are wonderfully portable, the contents get consumed quickly. And 24-ounce bottles are almost too tall and skinny. They can be very easy to knock over, and they don’t stay upright in cup holders because they’re top-heavy. They begin to take on the appearance of blunt-force weapons: The 25-ounce S’well could double as a small baseball bat.

We like bottles with the right proportions, and we have to believe designers have noticed the awkwardness of the 24-ounce size. For instance, in 2020 the Takeya Actives became available in a 22-ounce size (slightly smaller than the 24-ounce version, which had been our previous pick). Similarly, 32-ounce bottles are most useful when they are wide and squat instead of tall. When we make recommendations for larger capacities, such design concerns are a big part of what we take into consideration.

We consider the drinking experience. Think about the lip: If you’re drinking directly from the bottle, what is that experience like? If you’re trying to drink out of it while walking, what is that like? If you’re drinking from it in a car, what is that like? And recently, due to reader comments, we’ve been tracking whether the cap of a bottle covers the drinking surface completely or whether it’s exposed. Some people are concerned about bacteria getting onto the lip of their bottle, via contact with their hands or with sweaty gym clothes.

Metal bottles

The Yeti Rambler is a reliable bottle. But its opening does not taper at all, so this bottle is more of a thermos and more suitable for using a spoon, with something like soup.

The S’well bottle insulates with the best of them, and it has been watertight in all our tests. If you like it, go for it: S’well bottles are just more expensive, at every capacity, than anything else we’ve seen.

The Simple Modern Summit bottle leaked through the threads when we left it on its side overnight.

In past years, the Klean Kanteen Classic has been one of our picks, and we’ve tested the Insulated Classic as well. They’re both very similar to a Hydro Flask, but in 2019’s testing, both bottles had small leaks. For 2022, we tested the Klean Kanteen Insulated Classic with Pour Through Cap . Though this new lid’s dual gaskets fix the leaking problem, it took twice as many turns to open the pour-through cap compared with most other bottles. This bottle works great as a thermos to carry hot drinks to pour into a smaller cup, but it’s not great as a water bottle. Plus, the cap is metal, as is the bottle, and everyone who tested this model hated the metal-on-metal sound of the cap threading into the bottle.

The Corkcicle Classic Canteen performed well in every regard, but its lid is the smallest of of those on other bottles we tested. In fact, the lid was so small we were afraid we’d lose it.

The Corkcicle Series A Sport Canteen performed poorly in our insulation tests. Also, though it didn’t leak during testing, we thought the quick-sip lid was too prone to human error to be genuinely leak-proof.

Several other bottles leaked in our testing and were thus disqualified, including the 21-ounce Healthy Human Stein .

Other bottles performed poorly in our insulation tests, including the 25-ounce Fifty/Fifty Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel , the Laken Thermo Classic (its contents rose by 20.1 degrees during our test), and the Contigo Autoseal Chill .

Though we like the inclusion of a mesh strainer inside the lid of the EcoVessel Boulder , this bottle has the same problem as the Nalgene: The lid is connected with a long silicone strap that doesn’t stay put when you drink from it, unless you hold it down.

The mouthpiece on the EcoVessel Wave with Fliptop Straw is made of hard plastic, and it was not as pleasant to drink out of as the CamelBak Eddy+ .

The Stanley Quik Flip Go Bottle is one of the few flip-top bottles we’ve found that has a lock to secure the top. But this bottle is especially tall and unwieldy. It would make a better thermos than a water bottle.

The Coldest Water bottle has a flip-top straw that’s also made of hard plastic, like that of the EcoVessel Wave with Fliptop Straw. And it’s not that nice to drink out of.

We passed on the Coleman Autoseal FreeFlow Stainless bottle for the same reason we pass on most trigger bottles—a relatively elaborate cap that needs detailed cleaning.

Glass bottles

A pick from 2017, the 22-ounce Lifefactory Classic Flip was the best wide-mouth glass bottle available. There are just a few caveats. First, the wide mouth is a bit awkward to drink out of—it feels a lot like drinking out of a jar. Second, although the bottle has alternate lid options, we tested the Flip Cap in 2018, and it leaked. (That lid has since been discontinued.) Third, the standard lid is watertight but made of plastic, a concern for many people seeking glass bottles.

In drop testing, the Glasstic suffered from extensive scuffing.

The 20-ounce Ello Syndicate had a cap problem, with reports of mold building up.

Collapsible bottles

The Hydaway was our collapsible travel pick in 2018, and it proved polarizing: We received feedback both from people who loved it and from others who hated it. Such is the fate of all collapsibles we’ve tried. A 50/50 love-hate relationship didn’t convince us this bottle was a reliable recommendation for most travelers.

Our 2017 travel pick, the Platypus Meta , tends to develop a small hole in its bottom, which renders it useless for carrying water. Our 2016 pick, the Platypus SoftBottle , is watertight but floppy, as all collapsible bag-bottles are.

Before that, we picked the 1-liter Vapur . However, CNET’s Tim Stevens brought to our attention a design flaw in the cap that caused it to leak when lateral torsion was applied. We were able to replicate the issue independently using a brand-new bottle. As such, we no longer feel confident recommending it. Both the Vapur Element and the Nalgene Wide Mouth Cantene also leaked from their seams during our twist-and-torque test.

Plastic bottles

The Pogo plastic water bottle is basic and functional. We like the lid (again, just as with the Takeya ) and the flip top that closes over the spout. We encountered no leaks, but at the time we tested this bottle, it had a bad Fakespot rating (a D). As of 2023, the rating was a B, so we plan to look at it again.

The trendy reemergence of the Gatorade squeeze bottle prompted us to put it to the test in 2020. There was some small leakage through the threads when we left the bottle on its side overnight.

The Nalgene On The Fly comes with a locking flip-top lid but no spring release, so the lid wouldn’t pop open when we pushed the button.

The Embrava would be a good choice if the 24-ounce Thermos isn’t available, but it has a huge logo and a smooth body that becomes slick when wet.

If you’re drinking anything besides water, gunk will build up in your bottle over time, so you’ll need to clean it occasionally. The best way to do that is to use a bottle brush and some baking soda and vinegar.

OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set

For cleaning your bottle.

The OXO bottle-cleaning set includes a skinny straw brush and a looped, detail-cleaning brush—everything you need to keep your water bottle squeaky-clean.

After several hours of research, we found that the best bottle-cleaning set is the OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set . This dishwasher-safe kit offers a large bottle brush, a skinny straw brush, and a looped, detail-cleaning brush, all kept together on a handy ring so you don’t lose any parts. We bought a couple of sets to confirm their quality, and they are as good as we thought they would be.

This article was edited by Eve O’Neill and Christine Ryan.

Wesley Johnson, cryogenics research engineer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland , email interview , August 22, 2018

Jocelyn Ivanov, MIT, Drinking fountains: the past and future of free public water in the United States , September 29, 2015

PH Gleick, HS Cooley, Energy implications of bottled water (PDF) , Environmental Research Letters , February 19, 2009

Bottling Our Cities' Tap Water (PDF) , Food & Water Watch , August 1, 2010

No consumer health risk from bisphenol A exposure , European Food Safety Authority , January 21, 2015

Jon Hamilton, Beyond BPA: Court Battle Reveals A Shift In Debate Over Plastic Safety , NPR , February 16, 2015

Johanna R. Rochester, Ashley L. Bolden, Bisphenol S and F: A Systematic Review and Comparison of the Hormonal Activity of Bisphenol A Substitutes , Environmental Health Perspectives , July 1, 2015

Jenna Bilbrey, BPA-Free Plastic Containers May Be Just as Hazardous , Scientific American , August 11, 2014

M. Ridder, Sales volume of bottled water in the United States from 2010 to 2020 , Statista , May 10, 2022

Meet your guides

Eve O'Neill

Eve O'Neill is a former senior staff writer reporting on travel and outdoors at Wirecutter. She can remember the titles on her childhood bookshelf that set her in this direction: Into Thin Air, On The Road, The Call of the Wild . She has always been drawn to ideas about how to relate to, and play in, the wilderness.

Sam Schild is a writer and outdoor adventurer based in Denver. A former academic, teacher, and bicycle mechanic, he now finds joy in adventures as often as possible. Whether he travels by bicycle or on foot, he uses his experience outside to bring inspiration to all the stories he tells.

Further reading

How to Clean a Travel Mug or Water Bottle

by Christine Ryan

Don’t want your coffee to taste like yesterday’s brew? Give your travel mug a good deep clean—and do the same for your insulated water bottle, too!

This Inexpensive Water Bottle Is Meant for Cyclists, But It’s Great for Travelers, Too

The Camelbak Podium is affordable, lightweight, and perfect for packing.

The Best Travel Mug

by Trey French and Anna Perling

After testing travel mugs for more than 10 years, we’re still confident that the Zojirushi Stainless Steel Mug is the best mug to keep drinks hot for hours.

We’ve Recommended This Travel Mug for a Decade. It’s Still Going Strong.

by James Austin

Our longtime favorite travel mug keeps drinks piping hot, and the nifty locking lid makes it virtually spill-proof.

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Home » Gear » travel water bottles

The Best Travel Water Bottles to Buy in 2024

A reliable, good water bottle is an essential addition to any traveler’s packing list! Not only does a reliable water bottle save your budget, but also helps save this planet from single-use and unnecessary plastic waste.

I’m actually quite passionate about traveling with a reusable water bottle because the travel industry contributes a lot of waste… but that doesn’t mean we have to!

We’ll cover the best travel water bottles below, whether you’re backcountry camping in the mountains or backpacking around the world for months on end.

The sheer amount of reusable water bottle brands means you will have near-endless options depending on your travel priorities. Do you need a durable water bottle? One that keeps your water cold and tea hot? Is weight your main concern? Are you counting ounces on the trails?

Keep on reading to learn more about our recommendations for the best water bottles for travelers.

Quick Answer: What are the best water bottles for travel?

• Best Water Bottle with Filter for Travel – Grayl GEOPRESS Purifier Bottle
• Best Insulated Water Bottle – Hydroflask
• Most Lightweight Water Bottle – Nalgene
• Runner Up Best Filtered Water Bottle – LifeStraw
• Coolest Water Bottle – Klean Kanteen
• Best Collapsible Water Bottle –  HydraPak SkyFlask 500 Water Bottle
• Best Collapsible Water Bottle with Filter – HydraPak Flux 1.5 L Collapsible Water Bottle
• Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle – CamelBAK Fit Cap

Why You Should Travel with a Water Bottle?

So, before we get into the deet on the best water bottles for travel, let’s learn more about why you should have one first.

Anyone who travels to oceanfront destinations has probably seen the horrific amount of plastic that wipes up onshore and floats through the water. 100,000 animals die every year by eating or becoming entangled in plastic.

The worst part? It will take lifetimes for this plastic to decompose, if it doesn’t end up in our food cycle first (through marine animals and sea salt) as broken down micro-plastic.

It’s not just the undegradable plastic that affects our planet. According to the Pacific Institute’s “Fact Sheet: Bottled Water and Energy,” the process of actually making the one-use plastic bottles use 17 million barrels of oil annually in the US alone, and that’s not even including the oil used for transporting the bottles.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Here’s the good news: there are a ton of efficient ways to reduce your carbon footprint and plastic waste consumption when traveling. One of the easiest and most effective ways to travel sustainably is to avoid single-use plastic the road, and  bring your own reusable water bottle!

Fight the fight against one-use plastic. Bring a reusable, fold-up bag for your groceries, a water bottle for your thirst, and sustainable straw for your iced coffee frappes. Maybe pack a reusable sandwich/food bag too!

We know it’s not always possible to forego plastic, especially when you are traveling, but none of these things will take up much room in your backpack. If we all make a conscious effort to travel sustainability, it will make a world of difference to the environment we aim to explore.

So without further adieu, I have listed the best water bottles for traveling below.

Best Travel Water Bottles – Our Top Picks

Best insulated, stainless steel water bottles, best water bottles with a filter for travel, best collapsible water bottles for travel, best reusable water bottles for travel, things to consider before you buy a travel water bottle, how we tested to find the best travel water bottles, faq about the best travel water bottles, final thoughts on water bottles for travel.

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

• Price > $49.95
• Size > 16 – 40 oz.

Klean Kanteen Water Bottle

• Price > $19.95
• Size > 20 – 40oz

Grayl Geopress

• Price > $99.95
• Size > 24 oz.

LifeStraw Water Bottle

• Price > $44.95
• Size > 23 oz.

CamelBAK Fit Cap 32o

• Size > 32oz

HydraPak SkyFlask 500 Water Bottle

• Price > $22
• Size > 20 oz.

HydraPak Flux 1.5 L Collapsible Water Bottle

• Price > $55
• Size > 50 oz.

Nalgen REI Co-op

• Price > $15.95
• Size > 32 oz.

The bottom line is that a reliable water bottle, whether you are camping in the wild or traveling through bustling cities, is an essential item to pack. I mean, we all have to drink water! By carrying your own water bottle, you can reduce the amount of plastic you buy on the road and at home.

There are endless options to consider and factor in, including durability, material, nice-to-have features, and price.

Should you purchase a stainless steel water bottle or a plastic one? What gadgets can you live without? Should you get a built-in purifier? All of these questions and more will be answered below!

For those who want something easy, affordable, and can take a beat. Extra insulation will also help keep your liquids hot or cold in more demanding climates.

  Hydro Flask  Water Bottle – Best Insulated Water Bottle

Founded in one of the outdoor capitals of the USA, Bend, Oregon, this is truly one of the best water bottle brands out there. I’m not kidding when I say that Hydroflask has a cult following either.

Why? Because their double-wall vacuum-insulated design will keep your water ice cold (or your tea/coffee steaming hot) for hours on end. I have left my ice water sitting there for days ( over 24 hours), and there have been ice cubes floating around.

This is the best water bottle in extreme weather conditions, like the mountains or desert. A buddy of mine works in the desert, and this is his go-to water bottle to keep him cool all day.

Moreover, they have tons of sizes ranging from 16 oz to 40 oz + with a variety of interchangeable caps and fun colors.

The wide opening has three lids – a flip lid with a loop, a flex cap with a larger loop, and a straw lid for convenience.

If you are buying a hydro flask water bottle for travel, I suggest sticking with a 24 oz size though. Frankly, the 32 oz + bottles are too heavy and bulky, though they make for a great weapon!

There are drawbacks to using a hydro flask for travel, however. They are heavy as well as one of the most expensive water bottles on the market, so it may not make sense to actually backpack with it.

Our team really love the Hydro Flask and feel it’s the best water bottle for travel for a few reasons. They basically told us it just ticks all the boxes, is it perfect, not quite, but it’s close! For a starters the bottle is super durable and the steel material used means there’s no plasticy taste. The team were also super impressed by how long this bottle kept their drinks either mega cold or burning hot even after hours on the trails.

Learn More: Best Travel Coffee Makers review

REI is one of America’s biggest and most-loved outdoor gear retailers.

Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Klean Kanteen – Runner-up for Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Dueling it out for the overall best water bottle is Klean Kantene…

Why do we love it? This water bottle is easy to fill, but the opening is narrow enough to drink from, without spilling all over yourself, even within a moving car 🙂

And speaking of cars, it also fits in most cup holders, but it’s wide enough insert ice cubes.

It’s also easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and leakproof, so you can keep it in your backpack without spilling.

It’s one of the most lightweight stainless steel water bottles on the market. Like the hydro flask below, the Klean Kantene has a number of different lids and colors, depending on your preference. I’m a big fan of the sports cap as pictured.

Our team felt this was a close second when it came to the best travel water bottles and it just narrowly missed out on the top spot. They were blown away by how long this bottle keeps drinks both hot and cold. They also felt it held up well to the rigours of travel, non of our team members reported paint chips or dints even after a few months of usage.

Note: Make sure to read our guide on  how to travel responsibly, ethically, and sustainably   as well as how to  reduce your plastic footprint !

For those who are traveling to places with less-then-ideal sanitation standards and don’t want to bother with conventional means of purification i.e. chlorine pills, Steripens, awkward Lifestraws.

Grayl GEOPRESS Water Purifier Bottle – Best Water Bottle with Filter for Travel

What’s better than a travel water bottle you can fill with purified water? A travel water bottle you can fill with any water.

So, the Grayl GEOPRESS is not quite a water filter bottle. I mean, it is; you’re not going to accidentally contract giardia because of my wishy-washy banter. But it’s just not as boring as a standard filter bottle – this thing purifies .

You’ve got three parts: the outie, the innie, and the filter. You fill the outie with toxic death-infested water, push the filter through, and sunshine-lollipop water runs into the innie. Think of it like the AeroPress of water purification!

You know what I call that?

That’s science!

So what about the deetz? Well, this filtered water bottle carries 24oz of liquid (710mL for all my metric bros) and weighs 15.9oz (450g). Obviously, that’s before you put the protozoa-free water inside. The Grayl GEOPRESS is also one hardass son-of-a-bitch and will survive some pretty decent drops.

Of course, that’s not your burning question, is it? The burning question is ‘Does it work?’

The answer: yes indeedy! We thouroughly tested the Grayl GEOPRESS water bottle (not least to mention trekking in the Karakoram in Pakistan) and we’re happy to report: no violent illnesses! All our body fluids stayed right where they’re meant too.

In all seriousness, this things trumps other standard water filter bottles because it removes everything . Bacteria, parasites, viruses, heavy metals… no other filter water bottle offers the coverage and peace of mind that the Grayl GEOPRESS does.

Our team felt the Grayl was the best water bottle for traveling abroad due to just how well this bottle gets rid of any nasties. The team also felt the bottle was very well made and many of them have personally had this bottle for years and they’re still going strong. They also felt the mechanism and changing of the filters were super easy.

And that’s why it’s The Broke Backpacker’s official choice for the best travel filter water bottle. Enjoy all that death-free water!

LifeStraw Water Bottle – Runner-Up Travel Filter Water Bottle

This was originally our top pick for the best travel filter water bottle but then the Grayl GEOPRESS came along and ruined LifeStraw’s day. That’s ok, LifeStraw; we still love you. Number two is still pretty darn good.

This reusable, BPA-free plastic water bottle filters water while drinking via a 2-stage activated carbon filter that removes bacteria and protozoa as well as reduces odor and chlorine.

The straw removes 99.9999% waterborne bacteria and 99.9% waterborne protozoan parasites without chemicals, iodine, or batteries.

This water bottle is leak-proof with a food-grade silicone mouthpiece. It comes in a 23 oz water bottle size.

Do not fret if you are looking at purchasing a water bottle that doesn’t purify water abroad. I travel with my Grayl Geopress , which ends up being more versatile since I can purify multiple water bottles and it also kills viruses.

Our team are big fans of the LifeStraw water bottle and love the additional features built-in including the carabineer attachment which makes it easy to keep on hand even if your pack doesn’t have a bottle holder. They also felt the filtration of the water not only made it safe but made it taste a lot nicer too.

LifeStraw also makes a separate straw that you can stand alone that I have heard great things about.

CamelBAK Fit Cap 32oz – Best Stainless Steel Water Bottle

The CamelBAK Fit Cap 32oz Water Bottle, fabricated from vacuum-insulated stainless steel, guarantees your beverages remain chilled for up to 24 hours or warmed for a maximum of 6 hours. It serves as an ideal mate for numerous outdoor excursions, gym workouts, or simply as a desktop companion at your workplace. Its leak-proof cap safeguards against accidental spills, while the design comfortably accommodates most cup holders and backpack pockets.

Furthermore, in a world growing more conscious of environmental conservation, the CamelBak Fit Cap Water Bottle stands out as a sustainable substitute for single-use plastic bottles. Thanks to its durable build, it can endure daily usage, promising longevity. The sleek design, combined with the practicality of the cap, establishes this water bottle as a prime selection for those leading an active lifestyle and who appreciate a perfect blend of utility and aesthetic appeal.

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For those who value space and ultra-lightness above all else.

HydraPak SkyFlask 500 Water Bottle – Best Collapsible Water Bottle for Travel

This silicone-based collapsible water bottle is fantastic for those traveling with minimal space, yet still, want to bring a sustainable water bottle on their adventure!

The HydraPak water bottle’s major draw is its ability to roll into the size of a fist and lightweight material.

It’s the lightest reusable water bottle on this list, weighing just 4.8 oz! This is great for travelers with a carry-on.

The downside to this water bottle is durability. It’s not going to last you as long as a stainless steel bottle or even durable plastic.

Furthermore, for better or worst, this water bottle only comes in one size, 20 ounces, but it’s a small drawback if you want a lightweight water bottle.

Our team really loved how lightweight these bottles were and how small they folded up when not in use. They might be a little flimsy in the hand but for those looking for something super light and minimalist without being over-complicated, our team felt these were a great solution. They also loved that they were dishwasher safe so they’re really easy to clean.

HydraPak Flux 1.5 L Collapsible Water Bottle – The Best Collapsible Water Bottle with Filter

The HydraPak Flux is an ingenious piece of kit that combines the portability of a collapsible bottle and the utility of a filtered travel water bottle! It’s easy to use, easy to pack, easy to clean, and crucially effective.

The HydraPak Flux is most effective against bacteria and protozoa, killing over 99% of the little guys. On the other hand, there seems to be no definite word about the bottle effectiveness against viruses.

given that it’s a squeeze bottle, the HydraPak Flux actually has a pretty good flow rate. The flow won’t be anything like using a GRAYL post-purification but it will be damn sure better than using something like a Lifestraw, which requires iron lungs sometimes.

Note that the HydraPak Flux Water Filter itself is not compatible with other squeeze bottle brands.

Our team really loved the idea behind this bottle and its functionality. They felt it really cornered a great niche with the fact that it can easily be folded down and used as an emergency water bottle with its ability to be filled up with liquid like river water or other questionable sources! It might not be durable to use as your everyday bottle but our team swear by it for trekking in the wilds.

Generation Nomad Collapsible Water Bottle

This light, collapsible water bottle from Generation Nomad stands upright on flat surfaces, ensuring stability no matter where your adventures take you. Whether you’re hiking, sightseeing, or commuting, this bottle is designed to keep up with your active lifestyle. It combines functionality, portability, and style in one sleek package.

With our collapsible water bottle, you can quench your thirst for adventure without sacrificing precious packing space and without adding any extra trail weight. All in, we are very impressed and it only costs £28.00.

For those who are open to using a plastic water bottle for travel just so long as it comes from recycled materials.

Nalgen REI Co-op – Best Reusable Water Bottle (Plastic)

REI Co-op Nalgene is one of the most prolific resuable water bottle brands out there today! Often used by thru-hikers and long-term backpackers because they’re the most lightweight water bottles on this list (that isn’t collapsible).

Furthermore, the wide mouth allows for easy cleaning on the road even though it is made out of plastic. They are definitely convenient as they can be used for any type of activity, and they can handle drops and bangs in rough terrain.

The downside of a Nalgene water bottle, however, is that you need to clean it quite often. The O-ring on the cap is made firmly and can be tough to remove, but this part needs to be cleaned most to avoid bacteria.

Nalgenes do not handle direct sunlight and extreme external temperatures well, so keep them away from concentrated heat to avoid activation of chemicals found in plastic.

This is a plastic water bottle, and although it is BPA-free, it could still be manufactured with chemicals in it… Make sure to wash the water bottle by hand before use, and avoid dishwashers and strong detergents.

This is our most affordable water bottle on this list, a huge plus for water bottles for travel, but it isn’t as durable as our insulated options.

Our team felt this was a solid option for those who wanted something simple, effective, light and easy to clean. Something that ticks all the basic needs of a bottle without being overly expensive or complicated. It’s also super durable and great for daily use both on your trip, at the gym or at work.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Gone are the days a water bottle was simply a water bottle. As with anything in this day and age, you have unlimited options and vendors to buy from, and I’m going to help you narrow it down! Below are the top things to consider before you buy a travel water bottle.

1. Material

Most sustainable water bottles are made from glass, plastic, or stainless steel. Below I have provided quick summaries on why you should choose one material over the other…

Stainless Steel Bottles

These water bottles are the most durable, and most likely to last for the duration of your entire trip, whether it’s a quick vacation or multi-year adventure.

I’m a big fan of stainless steel water bottles because they last forever, and withhold insulation so your water stays cold (or hot) longer. Moreover, stainless steel water bottles are easy to clean, which is essential when you’re hopping from place to place. If I had to choose, stainless steel material makes for the best travel water bottle.

Reusable Plastic Water Bottles

Reusable plastic water bottles are the most common type of reusable water bottle on the trails because they’re the lightest and cheapest option. Many hikers choose to use a Nalgene or Camelbak  BPA-free plastic water bottle since stainless steel is heavier.

The downside to plastic is that they do not offer any insulation, so when you’re out for the day or exposed to the sun, your water will warm up quickly.

You have to clean plastic water bottles much more frequently, as they tend to get pretty nasty – think mold and odors – quickly, but the good news is wide mouth plastic water bottles are the easiest to clean.

If you buy a reusable plastic water bottle, make sure it is BPA-free, though pretty much all bottles come this way now. It’s always recommended to check that your purchase is chemical-free.

Check out the best CamelBak gear if you’re looking for some inspiration for your hydration!

Glass Water Bottles

Glass water bottles are great for having a reusable water bottle at home or the office, but I wouldn’t suggest one for traveling. They do not last as long, and they tend to be heavier. Plus, you run the risk of breaking it.

Silicone Water Bottles

Much less common, silicone water bottles are used for collapsible, travel-specific water bottles often sold on Amazon. They are a great addition to any backpacker’s packing list.

2. Water Bottle Weight and Capacity

Weight and capacity might be the most important thing to consider when you are choosing a water bottle for traveling. Backpackers, hikers, and trekkers will want to keep their backpack as light as possible. A travel size water bottle might be better than your standard bottle size if you want to keep things super light.

If you are already traveling with a tent and other camping supplies, you don’t want to add to the weight. Along with material, the best way to keep this weight down is by capacity/size.

I have found that when I am traveling a 750 ml (25 oz) sized water bottle is plenty big. Even if you drink water like a fish, it’s worth refilling your bottle more frequently than lugging around a 2-pound fire hydrant as a water bottle. Trust me, I am speaking from experience here!

3. Mouth Opening on a Reusable Water Bottle

Have you ever spilt water all over yourself when the driver halts to an unexpected stop? Imagine trying to take a sip of water on the bumpy back roads of India or Central America.

The wider the water bottle mouth, the more likely you are to spill while moving. That said, you definitely want the mouth wide enough to clean easily, and add ice cubes, fruit slices, etc.

4. Type of Mouth Opening – Sippers, Straws, Caps, etc.

Straws and sippers make it easy to drink on the go without spilling all over yourself (see the previous section), though they need to be cleaned more often. Personally, I prefer a straw typed mouth opening for my larger water bottle, but a normal-sized mouth opening for my 750ml and underwater bottles. Many water bottles will offer multiple choices to switch out.

5. Price for a Travel Water Bottle

Price is, of course, an important consideration with any purchase, especially for travel-related purchases. On one hand, you want a durable and high-quality water bottle. Price will often reflect this, but not always. Just because it’s more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better.

Secondly, you are traveling, and it’s best to not bring anything too expensive on your trip. I know, we’re talking about water bottles right, but I had my hydro flask water bottle stolen while I was traveling – and it stung a little more than it should have.

All of the water bottles we cover below are sold at a justifiable price point!

6. Filters and Purifiers

A filter or purifier might be essential if you are traveling to places where drinking water is unsafe. This can include developing countries or anywhere giardia can be contracted.

The important thing to keep in mind is that a filter only deals with bacteria and protozoan cysts; whereas, a purifier also neutralizes viruses.

If you are traveling internationally a purifier is a solid investment. A travel water bottle may come with a purifier, which makes them an excellent choice for travel.

However, you can also buy a separate purifier, like a Grayl Geopress , that can be used in any  water bottle. This is totally up to personal preference, but I lean towards having a separate purifier.

7. Insulated or Non-insulated

Insulated water bottles will obviously dictate the material the bottle is made of. Also known as double-walled, insulated water bottles will help you keep your drink hot or cold for hours on end, but this means the water bottle will be heavier and more expensive than non-insulated water bottles. If you’re looking for something dedicated to keeping your tea or coffee warm on cold-weather hikes, then a travelling flask might be another option.

Testing out a water bottle is hardly rocket science right? Nevertheless when we compared these H2O receptacles using a few set metrics to bring you the best water bottle for travel everrrr!

If a water bottle already feels heavy when there’s nothing in it, then just imagine how much of a pain in the arse it’s going to be once full! No one wants to be carting around extra weight on their backs so when it came to rating the best travel water bottle, the lighter the better!

Nothing beats the thirst-quenching satisfaction of cold water on a sizzling day. So we judged each bottle by its ability to keep water as cool as possible.

Cleanability

Water bottles get seriously grimy over time and keeping on top of this can be challenging. So we judged these travel water bottles harshly when it came to those that were difficult to keep clean. We tested this by literally getting our hands dirty and seeing how easy the cleaning process was and how much dirt each one had collected.

Still have some questions about the best water bottles for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Why should you travel with a water bottle?

Simple: to save the planet! There’s enough plastic floating around in the ocean. If you can reduce that number by getting your hands on a travel water bottle, the planet will be forever grateful.

Should I get a filtered water bottle?

Yes, definitely. It’s always a good idea to have a filtered water bottle, like the Grayl GEOPRESS Purifier Bottle for example. Filtered water is super safe to drink and your body will thank you.

What is the best overall travel bottle?

We personally love the Hydro Flask , simply because of the value you’re getting. It’s a reliable brand, it’s got some great insulaton and you can carry up to 1L around. Perfect for backpackers!

What is a good foldable water bottle?

The Baiji Water Bottle is totally collapsible, making it super easy to carry. You can roll it up and store it in your pocket. The Katadyn BeFree is another great option and even comes with a filter.

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1,000,000 plastic water bottles are sold every minute!  That plastic ends up in the ocean, which then leads to uneccesary loss of marine animal life .

And the travel industry contributes a staggering amount of waste and carbon emission on this planet, but here at the Broke Backpacker we truly believe that traveling on a budget and traveling sustainably can and should coincide.

One simple solution to traveling green while saving a few bucks every day (an amount that adds up for long-term backpackers) is to carry a sustainable water bottle at all times.

Frankly, using one-time-use plastic water bottles does not mean you are drinking higher quality water anyway as the plastic does eventually break down in the water you are drinking. They found that 93% of bottled water shows signs of  micro-plastic contamination . Most well-known brands made the list. I have also read that some brands have been caught using tap water…

Those $2 water purchases definitely add up, whether at home or on the road. That’s why the topic of travel water bottles is so important to us.

We want to save this planet and save your budget. This guide covers our top picks for water bottles for traveling. Our overall favorite water bottle is the Grayl Geopress because of its design, insulation, versatility, and price point. You really can’t go wrong with this sleek water bottle.

I’m also a fan of the Grayl GEOPRESS water purifier for visiting countries where the tap water is contaminated.

If we missed one of your favorite water bottles for travel, let us know in the comments!

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

Thanks for the recommendations! I’ve been travelling with a Camelbak Eddy for years, the same bottle and never had any issues with it. It’s funny how you grow attached to someone like a drink bottle travelling around the world with you. But anyway, recently it got taken off me at an airport. So time for a new travel bottle. Thanks again.

Got my first hydro flask from bottlecraze and I love this water bottle. Its just right for me. I take it everywhere I go. Its well designed and very insulated. I like it keeps my drinks cold all day.

Insulated water bottles are a game changer, right?!

Honestly, Avex water bottles are absolutely awesome and very, very, well designed. There are designed so well that Coleman borrowed thier design (licensing) and are now selling that same design under their branding. Why no one looks at this brand is beyond me. There are well priced too. Check them out on Amazon.

Nice! I will most definitely check them out 🙂

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The 10 Best Stainless Steel Water Bottles for Athletes, Commuters, and More

Our top picks are insulated, tough, and easy to bring with you anywhere

Lainey Younkin is a registered dietitian with a master's degree in nutrition communications from Tufts. She specializes in weight loss, is a mother of two young boys, and frequently contributes to various publications.

Sarah Felbin is the associate commerce editor at Verywell Fit. A writer and editor with over 20 years of dance experience, her work has also appeared in Popsugar and Women’s Health.

Jonathan Valdez, RDN, CDCES, CPT is a New York City-based telehealth registered dietitian nutritionist and nutrition communications expert.

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

Verywell Fit / Sarah Felbin

Drinking enough water has many benefits. Kristina Todini, RDN , a registered dietitian and nutritionist, says that staying hydrated is key to mental and physical performance. Although the exact amount you should drink daily varies based on your activity level and other factors, it's safe to say that adding another glass or two to your daily routine is a good idea for most people.

To help you stay hydrated, especially during busy days, we recommend investing in a functional water bottle that you can bring with you to the gym and the office. Stainless steel water bottles keep your water cold for hours , are better for the environment than plastic, and aren’t prone to breaking like glass water bottles can be.

To find the best stainless steel water bottles on the market, we looked for well-insulated options that are leakproof, portable, and durable . We then tested 25 top products in The Verywell Testing Lab . We also had a registered dietitian and certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy regarding what to look for in a quality water bottle and hydration recommendations.

• How We Selected and Tested
• What to Look for

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Best overall, takeya actives water bottle.

• Drinkability 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5
• Insulation 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Well-insulated

High-quality, durable construction

Silicone sleeve protects the base

May leak when jostled

Takeya's Actives Water Bottle is our top overall pick because it's easy to drink from and extra durable, with truly impressive insulation. After we filled this bottle with water and ice, we found that the double-walled insulation lowered the temperature of our drink by 5 degrees and kept it there for six hours. (The brand notes that the bottle can keep beverages cold for 24 hours or hot for around 12 hours.)

The wide mouth opening allows us to add ice cubes, while the spout lid ensures we can sip without soaking our shirts. Combined with the handy carrying loop, we recommend this bottle as your everyday go-to, especially if you work out often and need a basic bottle for the gym.

The water bottle is incredibly durable and didn't crack, dent, or leak after we dropped it six times from waist height. And we especially appreciate that the base has a silicone sleeve to protect both surfaces and the bottle itself.

We did notice that a few drops of water leaked out of the lid when we tossed the bottle into a backpack, so be careful when throwing it into your gym bag. Still, this bottle's high marks and thoughtful design make it our favorite out of the 25 bottles we've tested so far.

Key Specs: Capacity: 24 fl ounces |  Lid: Locking twist cap |  Weight:  16 ounces |  Dimensions:  3.25 x 3.25 x 10.4 inches

Best Overall Runner-Up

Thermoflask stainless steel water bottle.

• Portability 4.5 /5
• Insulation 4 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5

Comes with two lids

Smaller sizes fit in most cupholders

Handle doesn't move

Larger sizes are heavy

While Takeya's Actives bottle ultimately won out, we also highly recommend this option from Thermoflask. We love that, for a similar price, this bottle comes with two lids—one with a spout and one with a straw—so you can choose your preferred method of sipping.

The double-walled insulation kept our water icy cold. Thermoflask notes that the bottle will chill drinks for 24 hours or keep them hot for 12, making it a solid choice for your morning coffee or tea. The attached handle is easy to hold, although we wish it could be folded down when not in use.

We love that this sturdy bottle doesn't leak, even when dropped or flipped upside down. But unlike Takeya's Actives bottle, it did dent after multiple falls. Available in a range of jewel tones and sizes, you can grab a smaller bottle for sitting in your car's cupholders or a larger size to cut down on your refill trips. Just note that the larger sizes can start to feel heavy, weighing between 1 and 2 pounds each.

Key Specs: Capacity: 18 to 64 fl ounces |  Lid: Straw and spout |  Weight:  11 to 32.3 ounces |  Dimensions:  4.1 x 4.1 x 9.1 to 4.9 x 4.9 x 10.8 inches

Most Durable

Yeti rambler 26 oz bottle with chug cap.

Dishwasher-safe

Wide range of colors

For cold drinks only

Not as well-insulated

This bottle from Yeti, a well-loved brand, is our top pick for a tough bottle that's built to last. Whether you're hiking, camping, kayaking, or just commuting to the office, this 26-ounce option is a nice, in-between size that's portable and convenient.

In testing, we found that this bottle didn't keep our water as cold over time as Takeya's Actives or Thermoflask's bottles did. But with only a few degrees difference, we still think it's a solid option. We're also fans of the lid, which has a unique design that's a delight to drink from.

Sturdy and leakproof, Yeti's Rambler bottle only dented slightly during our drop test, meaning you can safely pack it alongside your laptop or gear. However, the Chug lid is not designed to be used with hot beverages. If you're looking for a bottle to hold your morning tea or coffee, we recommend Thermoflask's Stainless Steel Water Bottle instead.

We also love that the Rambler is dishwasher-safe, for easy cleaning. Choose from over 20 bright and metallic colors to find your favorite style.

Key Specs: Capacity: 18 fl ounces |  Lid: Screw-on |  Weight: 18.9 ounces |  Dimensions:  3 x 3 x 9.5 inches

Best Large Capacity

Iron flask wide mouth water bottle.

• Durability 3 /5

Comes with 3 lids

Wide range of sizes and colors

Great value

Hand wash only

Not as durable

The 64-ounce Iron Flask Water Bottle is our favorite large capacity option if you want to space out your refills. (However, we also stand by the other five sizes if you're in the market for something smaller.) We love that it comes with three different caps: a straw lid (similar to the trendy Stanley Tumbler ), a flip lid, and a stainless steel cap that covers the bottle's wide mouth opening.

With double-walled insulation, this bottle kept our water fairly cold during testing. However, it's not as durable as some of our other top picks—a few drops of water leaked out when we tossed it in a backpack, and when we dropped it, the cap broke and the bottle dented. Even so, we like that it's made from high-quality 18/8 stainless steel that’s BPA-free and won’t leave a metal taste in your mouth.

There are almost 30 colors and patterns to choose from, including bright gradient and marble printed options. And we love that the 64-ounce size costs almost the same as some of our other recommendations, making the Iron Flask a solid value. Just note that this water bottle is hand wash only and can't go in the dishwasher.

Key Specs: Capacity: 14 to 64 fl ounces |  Lid: Carabiner straw, flip, stainless steel |  Weight:  7.5 to 27 ounces |  Dimensions:  2.9 x 2.9 x 6 to 4.8 x 4.8 x 10 inches

Best Wide Mouth

Hydro flask 24 oz standard mouth bottle.

• Drinkability 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Insulation 3.5 /5
• Durability 3.5 /5

Textured finish is easy to hold

Flexible carrying handle

Sleek and well-designed, Hydro Flask's Standard Mouth Bottle is our recommendation for a stainless steel water bottle with a wide opening that's easy to drink from. We like that the mouth is the perfect width and features a comfortable lip. The size and shape makes adding ice, fruit, or other ingredients to your water a breeze.

This bottle comes in various fun, bright colors, with a slip-free coating on the outside that's pleasant to hold. Plus, the lid is completely leakproof, to protect the rest of your essentials from any stray spills. Another thoughtful design element? The flexible carrying handle can be folded down in either direction when you're not using it, which sets this bottle apart from some of our other picks.

Made from 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel, this Hydro Flask is BPA-free. But while it kept our water cold for three hours, we noticed the temperature had increased by 8 degrees after six hours—meaning this bottle's double-walled insulation isn't as effective as others we tested. If insulation is important to you, we recommend investing in Takeya's Actives Water Bottle or Thermoflask's Water Bottle instead.

Key Specs: Capacity: 21 or 24 fl ounces |  Lid: Flex cap |  Weight:  7.8 to 11.3 ounces |  Dimensions:  2.9 x 2.9 x 11.1 or 3.35 x 3.15 x 8.9 inches

Best Dishwasher-Safe

Corkcicle canteen.

Sleek, stylish design

Triple-walled insulation

Dents easily

If you're sick of spending your time scrubbing your water bottle out by hand, we recommend Corkcicle's Canteen. This bottle is completely dishwasher safe, so you can clean it daily without a second thought.

We love the sleek design, which has a modern, angular shape and comes in a variety of bright colors and patterns. The 16-ounce capacity is solid for everyday sipping, and the low-profile lid is completely leakproof, for added peace of mind.

Most bottles on our list have double-walled insulation to keep your beverage hot or cold (more on how this works later). But Corkcicle's Canteen has triple-walled insulation, for even better results. This bottle excelled in our temperature tests, lowering the temperature of our ice-filled water by 5 degrees after six hours.

While we love how stylish and effective the Canteen is, it's not as durable as some of our other picks. We noticed that it dented easily when we dropped it from waist height. For a tougher bottle, we suggest Yeti's Rambler Bottle.

Key Specs: Capacity: 16 fl ounces |  Lid: Screw on |  Weight:  14.9 ounces |  Dimensions:  3.2 x 3.1 x 9.7 inches

Best with Filter

Brita insulated filtered water bottle.

 Amazon

• Seal 4.5 /5
• Durability 4 /5

Compact and portable

Lid opens with one hand

For a stainless steel water bottle that comes with a filter built in, we love this option from Brita. It filters out unpleasant tastes and odors, for fresh-tasting water with every sip. We like that the filter is included at a similar price to most other bottles on our list (although you'll need to replace it regularly to reap the full benefits, according to the brand).

The bottle's slim design is easy to hold and fits in most cupholders. This, combined with the handy carrying loop that's attached to the lid, enables us to bring this bottle almost anywhere.

For quick sips on the go, the lid opens with the press of a button. We love that you only need one hand, making this bottle a solid choice for walking on the treadmill or for instant hydration during sports. It's also well-insulated, passing our temperature test with flying colors.

However, it did not pass our drop tests, denting and leaking after it hit the floor. Even so, we still recommend this bottle as a convenient, mid-sized option with an effective filter.

Key Specs: Capacity: 20 or 32 fl ounces |  Lid: Straw |  Weight:  16 to 18.6 ounces |  Dimensions:  3.2 x 3.2 x 10.8 or 3.8 x 3.8 x 10.7 inches

Best Leakproof

Owala freesip water bottle.

Two-in-one spout

Handle locks in place to prevent spills

Plenty of our top picks are leakproof, but only Owala's FreeSip has a handle that locks in place over the lid for additional security. No matter how full you tend to stuff your purse or gym bag, the handle blocks the bottle's button, so no gear (or hand fishing around for your phone) can press it by accident.

But that's not all the lid has to offer. Use one hand to push the button, and it flips open to reveal a two-in-one spout. We love that you can sip from the straw or use the wider opening to grab a big gulp of cold water without needing multiple lids.

While this bottle keeps our water cold for hours, preserving ice cubes overnight with ease, Owala notes that it's not meant to hot hold beverages. Instead, we recommend S'well's Water Bottle for your tea or coffee.

Choose from five sizes in a dazzling array of bright, retro color combinations.

Key Specs: Capacity: 19 to 40 fl ounces |  Lid: Flip top straw and spout |  Weight:  Up to 21.1 ounces |  Dimensions:  2.9 x 2.9 x 9.9 to 3.6 x 3.6 x 11.6 inches

Best for Hot Beverages

S'well 17-ounce stainless steel water bottle.

• Drinkability 4 /5

Lightweight

Like Corkcicle's Canteen, S'well's Water Bottle features triple-walled insulation—perfect for keeping your tea or coffee hot all morning long. The brand claims the largest bottle can keep drinks cold for up to 48 hours and hot for around 18. While we didn't test the full extent of this range, the bottle did perform well in our temperature tests, keeping our water fresh and cold after three and six hours.

This lightweight bottle features a sleek, stylish design that comes in almost 40 colors and patterns, from solid hues to botanical prints. We love that it's leakproof, with a secure, screw-on lid. Available in three sizes (9 ounces, 17 ounces, and 25 ounces), the narrow silhouette makes this bottle easy to carry with you, sliding in most bags and cupholders with ease.

To prolong your S'well bottle's life, you'll want to wash it by hand only, which can be tricky due to its smaller mouth. It's also not the most durable bottle we tested, showing significant denting after we dropped it. Still, its impressive insulation and compact footprint make this our favorite stainless steel bottle for sipping your hot beverage of choice during your commute.

Key Specs: Capacity: 9 to 25 fl ounces |  Lid: Screw-on |  Weight: 10.4 to 15 ounces |  Dimensions:  2.6 x 2.6 x 7.9 to 3.2 x 3.2 x 11.8 inches

Best for Bikes

Healthy human vacuum insulated double walled thermos.

For hot and cold beverages

For a slim bottle that can slip into the cage on your mountain bike or indoor cycling bike , we recommend this Healthy Human's Thermos. Its double-walled insulation keeps our water cold for hours, while the lid has a convenient handle for rehydrating while you're on the go.

While the design may seem basic, we love how easy it is to sip from this bottle's wide mouth. It's also leakproof, for a tight seal you can rely on while traveling your favorite trails. But we noticed it tends to dent easily, so you may want to invest in a silicone sleeve from the brand to protect the base.

Even better, this bottle is designed to keep water cold or your favorite beverage hot for hours. Choose from four sizes in over 30 colors and patterns (or, if you can't decide, stock up on a few!).

Key Specs: Capacity: 16 to 40 fl ounces |  Lid: Screw-on |  Weight:  12 to 21.6 ounces |  Dimensions:  2.75 x 2.75 x 8.5 to 3.5 x 3.5 x 12 inches

Water Bottles We Also Tested

In total, we tested over 25 water bottles in the Verywell Testing Lab—but not every product scored high marks. Although we liked some aspects of these stainless steel water bottles, each left something to be desired:

• We were initially impressed by MIRA's 17 Oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle because of its leakproof seal. But it dented easily, and its heavy weight made it uncomfortable to hold.
• We liked that Hydro Flask's 24 oz Lightweight Trail Series Water Bottle has a convenient handle and a sleek silhouette that fits in most cupholders. However, when we dropped it, the lid almost flew off, and the slippery, shiny finish was tough to hold.
• Purist's Mover Vacuum Water Bottle has a stylish, compact design. But for how expensive it is, we wish it could go in the dishwasher. The cap is also hard to open and leaked when we dropped the bottle from waist height.

How We Selected and Tested the Best Stainless Steel Water Bottles

We often test water bottles in the Verywell Testing Lab. We first research dozens of popular models from the most trusted brands to find the best stainless steel options. We also seek expert advice on how to shop for a stainless steel water bottle that's both functional and durable.

Next, we select a set of bottles to test for ourselves. To test each bottle's insulation, we fill it with ice and cold water to see how effective it is. We use a liquid thermometer to measure the temperature of the water immediately after we pour it, three hours later and six hours later, as the bottles sit on a sunny windowsill.

We also take a few sips from each bottle, noting how easy they are to hold, open, and drink from. We also note how the water tastes—metallic or fresh. After that, we test whether the bottles are leakproof by shaking them, holding them upside down, and tossing them in a backpack while we walk around.

To test how portable the water bottles are, we try fitting them in a standard car cupholder and carry them around using their handles, if applicable. Finally, we drop each water bottle from waist height six times (three on its side and three on its lid). At the end of the test, we give each bottle a rating from 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (would recommend) in 6 key categories: drinkability, seal, portability, insulation, durability, and overall value.

To assemble our final list of recommendations, we use a combination of the water bottles' scores and expert guidance. As we continue to test the latest stainless steel water bottles, we'll update this story with new picks and results.

Before selecting our list of water bottles to test, we interviewed an expert to understand what makes a stainless steel water bottle superior to other options. Our expert also advised us on key features to look for in a quality bottle.

• Kristina Todin, RDN , registered dietitian, nutritionist, and creator of the plant-rich food blog Fork in the Road

What to Look for in Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Stainless steel water bottles can come with a variety of different lids. Some are better for certain activities—for example, if you're playing sports or working out, you may want a straw or spout lid so you can quickly grab a sip when you need to. A wide-mouth lid is convenient if you like to add ice cubes or flavoring to your water . Some bottles come with multiple lid styles, so you can choose the one that's best for your schedule each day.

Water bottles can range in size from 12 ounces all the way up to 84 ounces (or even more). "When choosing a stainless steel bottle, consider what you’ll be using it for," Todini says. "If you’re active in sports choose a lightweight and slim bottle that can easily be carried, or if it’s your everyday water bottle choose one that fits in your bag or car’s cup holder."

A 64- to 84-ounce stainless steel water bottle is a great option if you're playing tennis or a sport where you might be in hot weather for several hours and want your water to remain cold. A 17- to 32-ounce water bottle is easier to carry with you during everyday activities, like going to work or the gym.

Stainless steel water bottles come with different levels of insulation. The type of construction your bottle has can affect how long it keeps your preferred beverage hot or cold. Here's a quick breakdown of each style:

• Single-walled insulation means the bottle is made from a single layer of stainless steel. You won't find any single-walled bottles on our list because they don't stabilize temperature very well, meaning your water won't stay cold over time.
• Double-walled insulation means the bottle has two distinct layers—they may both be stainless steel or one may be copper. There's a vacuum (or a layer of air) between the walls that helps insulate your drink, keeping it hot or cold for a long period of time. This design both prevents the temperature outside the bottle from affecting your drink and prevents the inside temperature from changing for as long as possible—in many cases, around 24 hours for cold beverages. It also prevents condensation from building up on the outside of the bottle. Most of our top picks feature double-walled insulation, as it's the most common.
• Triple-walled insulation works the same way, except there's a third layer of steel or copper (creating two vacuum layers). Some water bottles use triple-walled insulation to keep drinks cold for 36 hours and hot for 18 hours.

The best stainless steel water bottles are durable and can withstand the occasional drop or fall. We drop each bottle in the Lab to see how they'll hold up against regular wear and tear. When shopping for a new water bottle, check to see how heavy it is—this can indicate how sturdy it will be. (However, it won't tell you how durable the lid is.) "Overall, choosing a high-quality bottle made with materials that will last the test of time is better for you and better for the environment,” Todini says.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, you can expect to spend between $20 and $50 for a high-quality stainless steel water bottle. Smaller sizes tend to be less expensive but may force you to refill more often. If you're not often near a water fountain, we recommend investing more money in a larger capacity bottle.

Yes: "Stainless steel is a long-lasting material that is resistant to corrosion and does not leach chemicals when exposed to heat, making it a great choice for water bottles," Todini says. Look for 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, which contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel. This is one of the highest grades of stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion—it's commonly used in the food industry.

Lainey Younkin , MS, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian always looking for ways to help her clients drink more water. She has personally owned many stainless steel water bottles because she can’t stand lukewarm water and loves any bottle that keeps her H20 ice cold for hours.

Additional reporting contributed by Sarah Felbin

With over two decades of dance experience,  Sarah Felbin  loves diving into the latest wellness research. As a health and fitness editor, she's passionate about finding products that are a great value and make life easier. Her favorite stainless steel water bottle is Owala's FreeSip because it's easy to hold and has a leakproof lid that locks. (Plus, it comes in some of her favorite color combinations!)

By Lainey Younkin, MS, RD Lainey Younkin is a weight loss sdietitian with a virtual private practice. She has a bachelor's in food science - nutrition and dietetics from Clemson University and a master's in nutrition communication from the Tufts Friedman School. Her work has appeared in EatingWell Magazine, EatingWell.com, and Tufts Nutrition Magazine and she has been featured in Healthline, Everyday Health, The Today Show, and more.

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The 13 Best Water Bottles for Travel [2024]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

796 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3257 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

Why should you travel with a water bottle, impact of plastic and bottles on the environment, things to consider with a water bottle, the 2 best filter water bottles, the 2 best plastic water bottles, the 5 best stainless steel water bottles, the 2 best collapsible water bottles, the 2 best infusion water bottles, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Carrying a water bottle means you’ll always have access to a cool drink when you need it while feeling good about reducing your carbon footprint with every step you take!

Here are our top recommendations for the best water bottles to accompany you on all your travel adventures.

Investing in a reusable, refillable water bottle is much better than simply buying a plastic bottle every time you get thirsty. From a trip to the gym to a long-distance road trip, your water bottle is important for so many different reasons, including:

• Save Money — Having a refillable water bottle saves a fortune on having to buy water, juice, or soda whenever you feel thirsty.
• Stay Healthy — Our bodies are made mostly of water, and we need to drink a least 1.5 liters of the good stuff a day. Water helps keep our joints moving freely and improves our skin, eyesight, and general well-being.
• Drink Healthy — Single-use plastic water bottles can contain the chemical BPA, which has been linked to hormonal issues and even cancer. Switching to a reusable BPA-free water bottle will help keep you healthy.
• Stay Hydrated — If you’re traveling somewhere very hot, you need to drink even more water than usual to remain hydrated. Not consuming enough water can cause headaches, sickness, and sometimes serious health conditions.
• Drink Clean — Not all countries have the same water treatment processes, and drinking water that our bodies aren’t used to can make us unwell. Drinking filtered water from your very own bottle will reduce any risk of upset stomach (or worse) in some locations.
• Support the Environment — Not buying plastic bottles helps to save our environment. Single-use plastic bottles are responsible for a vast majority of the world’s marine pollution, and they provide further problems with landfills on dry land.

In the U.S. alone, millions of plastic water bottles end up in landfills every day . These bottles may seem like a convenient way to enjoy the fresh, cool water that our bodies need to stay well, but they are filling up our landfills and crippling our oceans.

The plastic bottle production process utilizes the petroleum product polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This product requires a large amount of fossil fuel to both make the bottles and transport them. For every single-use bottle manufactured, the equivalent of 1.4 gallons (5.3 liters) of clean water is also needed to make it. ¹

Plastic water bottles are also incredibly hard to recycle — meaning that the more of them we use, the more is left leaching dangerous chemicals into the ground since they take more than a human lifetime to decompose fully.

And the plastic bottle tops that give you convenient access to your water cause huge problems for marine animals worldwide. If fewer people buy single-use plastic water bottles, there will be less opportunity for them to be manufactured, distributed, and eventually disposed of in landfills or oceans.

If all this hasn’t convinced you to buy your own water bottle, we don’t know what will!

When buying a new water bottle, you should consider the following:

Your water bottle needs to be reusable, durable, free from leaks, and easy to clean. Most water bottles are made from either stainless steel or plastic, as these materials offer affordable ways to mass-produce drinking bottles.

Reusable plastic options offer a wide range of shapes, sizes, and designs — and most of the ones available today are BPA-free, making them super safe for both you and the environment.

Stainless steel bottles are far better insulated and perfect for keeping hot drinks warmer for longer. They may cost more to buy than a standard plastic bottle, but they should last you for a long time if you take care of them.

Water bottles come in all shapes and sizes.

Vacuum-insulated bottles can keep your water super cold all day long or your beverages hot for up to 5 hours straight.

• Glass bottles are beautiful and efficiently solve the problem of plastic waste and unwanted BPAs, but they can be breakable and do not insulate as well.
• Stainless steel bottles are non-reactive, BPA-free, and lightweight compared to glass bottles. They are also usually affordable since they can last a long time as long as they’re cared for and cleaned properly (handwash only!).
• Plastic bottles are the most popular type of refillable bottle in the U.S. today. You can fill them with all types of liquid, and choose from pop-up tops, flip tops, or even just plain screw lids.
• Collapsible water bottles are also popular if you are short on space. You can flatten them when empty, and they will bounce back into shape when they are full again.

Carry just enough water for your needs. Choose a bottle that can hold enough water to last you in between refills, but not one that is so large and heavy it becomes difficult to carry. Most water bottles are between 16 ounces (473 milliliters) to 24 ounces (708 milliliters).

Free of Chemicals

Reusable plastic bottles are designed to be BPA-free and made from materials that will not pose any risk to your health. There are even companies out there that manufacture water bottles made from sugar cane that are free from BPA, phthalates, and additives. Some recycled paper or stainless steel bottles come complete with natural bamboo stoppers.

Easy To Clean

A practical water bottle is one that is easy to clean. Over time, mold and mildew can build up in the spout and base of the bottle if it is not cleaned regularly, and you definitely won’t want to drink out of that! Plastic sports-style bottles, glass bottles, and some vacuum bottles can go in the dishwasher. Stainless steel and collapsible bottles may need to be washed by hand.

Filters and Purifiers

There are lots of bottles on the market that offer much more than just a practical, easy-to-clean vessel for carrying your beverage around. Some bottles even feature filters that remove chlorine and other contaminants from the water in the bottle, giving you purified water with every sip.

Insulated water bottles are designed to keep the temperature of your drink stable over prolonged periods. The quality and thickness of the insulation will dictate how effective it will be. Whether you’re planning on taking a hot coffee to work with you or ice-cold water on a very hot day, an insulated bottle will keep the temperature constant for 4 or 5 hours at least.

Bottles need to be easily accessible for filling up, but also securely closed to prevent leakage. Most bottles will have a screw top for cleaning and refilling.

When it comes to enjoying those beverages, there are a huge variety of different caps, spouts, and openings to choose from:

• Wide-mouth bottles that open like cups
• Sports cap bottles that you pull up with your teeth
• Pop-up straw spouts that fold down to prevent leaks
• Screwcap bottles that open like a traditional flask
• Spouts that twist like coffee cups

The weight of your water bottle will obviously depend on whether it’s full of liquid or not. If your water bottle feels quite heavy without any water in it, imagine how heavy it will feel when it’s full !

The lighter, the better, especially if you’re carrying it long distances or traveling with it in your bag. Note that stainless steel water bottles are usually much heavier than their plastic counterparts.

There are hundreds of different types of water bottles on the market. Make your choice based on your own needs and preferences, but pat yourself on the back for choosing to step away from environmentally damaging single-use plastics.

1. Great for Adventurous Globetrotters

• LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles

The LifeStraw series by Danish company Vestergaard filters water while you drink, making it perfect for camping, backpacking, and emergency kits. The award-winning LifeStraw hollow fiber membrane protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, chlorine, and other chemicals.

BPA-free and incredibly durable, the microbiological filter promises up to 5 years of safe drinking water while you travel. And the 23-ounce leakproof bottle is large enough to keep you hydrated, featuring a food-grade silicone mouthpiece.

Wherever you roam, this bottle can remove 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites without chemicals, iodine, or batteries, meaning all water can become safe drinking water. It also provides clean water for 1 year for 1 child through its innovative “One Purchase, One Child” program .

What We Like

• Great for the environment and communities in need

What We Don’t Like

• The straw is a little difficult to suck liquid through

2. Best for Backpackers and Hardcore Travelers

• GRAYL UltraPress Water Purifier Bottle

This traditional-looking water bottle hides a clever secret: the GRAYL One Press design can transform dirty water into clean, drinkable water in around 10 seconds . How awesome is that?

The manufacturer claims their clever filter system can remove 99.9% of viruses, including hepatitis A, norovirus, and rotavirus, as well as 99.9999% of disease-causing bacteria that are responsible for E. coli, salmonella, and dysentery.

But the fun doesn’t end there — the filtering process also leaves no aftertaste, just cool refreshing water. This is the perfect investment if you’ll be traveling anywhere safe drinking water is hard to come by. Great for camping, hiking, backpacking, and hitting the open road, this clever bottle is a little pricey but could be a lifesaver.

• Creates great-tasting, purified water
• The lid is not attached to the bottle, so can be easily dropped

1. Cheap and Cheerful Everyday Water Bottle

• Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle

The Nalgene everyday water bottle is an American legend that’s still popular today. Made from BPA-free Eastman Tritan co-polyester, this popular bottle is incredibly impact-resistant. It’s also dishwasher safe on the top rack for a squeaky clean every time.

Made to withstand temperatures between -158 degrees to 212 degrees , you can use this bottle for all of your beverages. The wide mouth makes for easy cleaning, and the bottle can accommodate most water filters for crystal-clear refreshment every time you sip.

As the trailblazer of American-made water bottles, this one will keep you hydrated without leaking a single drop. The manufacturers are proud that their original design hasn’t changed in decades — if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

• Easy to keep track of how much water you’ve drunk
• Doesn’t fit standard water bottle holders, like in a car, for example

2. Best for Sporting Adventures

Camelbak chute mag water bottle, 32oz.

The well-loved Chute bottle from CamelBak has been improved upon over time, and is now one of the most popular drinking bottles in the U.S. With a new magnetic top that easily stows the cap, and its ever-popular angled spout , storing and drinking on the go has never been easier.

Made from the highest-grade plastics that are free from BPA, BPS, and BPF materials, the makers of the Chute say you’ll “taste your beverage, not the bottle.” Without any nasty chemicals to leave a bad taste in your mouth, you can enjoy crystal-clear water wherever your journey takes you.

The unique spout design provides a high flow of water that won’t slosh or spill, and the durable, leakproof 32-ounce bottle is big enough to see you through the longest journeys between refills. Available in a selection of sizes and colors, the Chute is a great choice for sports, travel, or even just everyday commuting.

• Easy to fill with ice through the large opening
• Doesn’t keep the water cold

1. Top Quality From a Family Business

Klean kanteen classic single wall stainless steel bottle.

The ethos behind this family-run business is to provide products that really last. The Klean Kanteen bottle embodies their values perfectly, and it’s made from a patented chip-resistant finish that is designed to withstand anything your adventures can throw at it .

Klean Kanteen also believes in prioritizing human safety in their drinking bottles, meaning they work hard to eliminate ingredients that could adversely affect people, as well as the environment. This particular bottle has a large opening that can fit ice cubes and is compatible with all of the Klean Kanteen Classic caps.

The easy-to-clean electro-polished interior doesn’t retain or impart flavors, and the stainless steel body keeps your water cooler longer. Available in a selection of sizes and bright colors, these are perfect for travel.

• Sturdy and solid if dropped
• The sports cap can be difficult to keep clean

2. The Not-a-Stainless-Steel Bottle

Sigg traveller water bottle.

These Swiss drinking bottles are in vogue at the moment — they may not be the most practical choice, but the Sigg bottle is beautifully designed!

Sigg is proud that each bottle is made from a single sheet of 100% recyclable aluminum , creating a uniform and seamless construction that looks and feels great. And with a solvent-free, eco-friendly, powder-based coating, you’ll certainly have all your carbon footprint credentials checked with this bottle.

The 1-liter water bottle is a practical size that works well in your backpack or messenger bag. Great looking and with an exterior as smooth as the hood of a sports car, these bottles are fantastic to drink from. The downside is that you cannot freeze them, and you can only hand wash them with warm, soapy water (or invest in some specialist SIGG cleaning tablets and a brush).

• Bit of a pain to clean

3. Best for Fashion-forward Adventurers

Hydro flask 18 oz double wall vacuum insulated stainless steel water bottle.

These brightly colored, funky drink bottles have a unique powder coat finish that works alongside the TempShield insulation to create a stainless steel bottle that is comfortable to hold and doesn’t suffer from condensation . Just what the world has been waiting for!

The eye-catching design is minimalist and cool, and the 18-ounce size is just right for your sports bag, backpack, or travel bag. Made using non-toxic BPA-free plastics and 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, this is a quality bottle that is also brilliantly practical.

The Hydro Flask’s double-walled, vacuum-insulated TempShield will keep your warm drinks hot for up to 12 hours, and cool drinks cold for up to 24 hours — perfect for whatever you’re drinking and wherever you’re headed.

• Double insulation keeps the water nice and cold
• The carrying strap is not the most durable

4. Built-to-Last Insulated Water Bottle

• MIRA Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

This rugged sports water bottle is made from high-quality food-grade 18/8 stainless steel and is built to last! Beautifully crafted and guaranteed not to rust (provided you care for it correctly), the Mira Insulated Water Bottle should stay with you for many years to come.

The lid is completely leakproof, and the bottle is free from BPA and phthalates, meaning both you and the environment remain protected. It has a larger opening at the top and double-walled vacuum insulation to keep your beverages cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.

Great looking and practical, the Mira bottle will look as good as new with a hand wash, but it’s not dishwasher safe. Apart from that, it’s a cool-looking bottle that will keep you refreshed wherever you are.

• Can hold hot as well as cold liquids
• Not suitable for the dishwasher

5. For Those Wanting Funky Bottle Designs

Healthy human stainless steel vacuum insulated water bottle.

Designed to keep your drinks icy cold for a long time, a Healthy Human bottle will make you feel like you’re guzzling glacial meltwater. Made from 100% premium food-grade 18/8 stainless steel (and also BPA-free with no plastic lining in the bottle or lid), you taste exactly what you would expect: nothing but your drink!

This bottle also promises to be 100% leakproof and sweat-free, meaning you can stow it anywhere without worrying about messy leaks or spills . The double-walled exterior and vacuum-insulated interior will keep your liquids cold for 24 hours or hot for 12 hours — perfect for long journeys in between refills.

The Healthy Human water bottle also comes with a variety of accessories, including a carabiner to clip onto your bag or stroller , a sticker, and a “Hydro Guide.” It also comes beautifully packaged, making it the perfect gift for your fellow adventurers.

• Available in 4 sizes and a range of colors and designs
• Chips easily

1. For Those Who Like To Travel Light

Bulunow travel water bottle.

This ingenious water bottle collapses up to a fraction of its size when empty , making it perfect for long-distance travel. Made from 100% food-grade materials and completely free of BPA, BPS, PVC, phthalates, lead, latex, and other harmful leaching chemicals, this is a supercool drink bottle with a serious pedigree behind it.

Incredibly durable, you can throw this baby around without causing damage. The flexible, shatter-proof silicone body is designed to survive drops and knocks, while the triple leak-proof design for the lid will eliminate leaks and spills completely. The cap also doubles up as a spout cover to keep germs off the mouthpiece.

Dishwasher safe (unlike some of the other bestselling bottles we’ve mentioned), this collapsible silicone bottle can handle hot or cot drinks and is even freezable. What more to say? The Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle is perfect for every traveler.

• Compact to transport when not in use
• Bottle sweats a little on the outside

2. Best for Space-saving Travelers on a Budget

Hydrapak soft flask, 150ml.

Designed to keep you fully charged on the go, this lightweight 150 milliliters (5.3 ounces) collapsible flask allows for instant hydration whatever you’re doing and wherever you are.

The compact dimensions of the Soft Flask mean it fits easily in most hydration vests , belts, or pack pockets for easy transportation, and the soft material will conform to any pocket. As you drink, it immediately shrinks — making it even easier to stow away between refills.

Loved by many athletes and adventurers, the UltraFlask’s durable TPU compound can stand up to pretty much anything you throw at it. Being 100% BPA and PVC-free, it doesn’t have any weird taste or harmful chemicals. This is a neat little bottle that’s great if you want something practical yet reasonably priced.

• Can be filled with energy gels
• Requires 2 hands to open

1. The Budget Infuser

Infusion pro water infuser – 24 oz fruit infused water bottle.

This affordable infuser bottle is great for anyone who wants to add a little bit of pizzazz to their water. Made from 100% Eastman Tritan BPA-free plastic, you can fill this fruit infuser with a flavor of your choice for great-tasting refreshment on the go .

Simply pop some fruits or veggies into the extra-large infuser basket and wait for the flavor to fill the water. The strainer stops seeds, pulp, or ice from clogging the drinking spout while giving you an awesome-tasting healthy beverage that’s a little more exciting than just plain water.

The addition of an insulating neoprene sleeve and carry strap means you can take your flavored water anywhere you want, and it will still be nicely chilled when you get there. Great for anyone wanting to detox or lose weight, as well as those who want to stay refreshed while they travel, this bottle makes drinking water taste just a bit better.

• Dishwasher safe
• The flip lid is quite fragile

2. Best for Healthy Drinkers

Live infinitely 32 oz. infuser water bottle.

Infusion bottles give you the unique opportunity to naturally flavor your water with any combination of fruit you can think of. With dual hand grips and a dedicated sports spout, this is the perfect bottle for staying hydrated on the go.

Another bottle made from durable Eastman Tritan, these bottles are BPA-free and FDA approved to be safe for use with food and beverages. The water infuser is also leakproof, and the locking lid means you never have to worry about spills. It is also easy to clean and dishwasher-friendly.

This bottle offers a full length infuser rod, meaning you can plenty of fruit to flavor your water . It’s great for anyone adding natural nutrients to their daily lifestyle, while still drinking all the H2O they need to function well and stay healthy.

• Sports spout for easy drinking
• Small bits of fruit or herbs can get through the large infuser holes

Your water bottle is so much more than just a vessel to hold your refreshment. Modern refillable bottles are not only on-trend and practical, but they also help save the planet with their impressive low carbon and eco-friendly manufacturing credentials.

Water bottles can also save your life! If you’re traveling to the far-flung corners of the earth, a built-in filtration system can give you safe, clean water to drink when you need it most.

Invest in the bottle that best suits your requirements, and go for quality overlooks to ensure that your bottle lasts for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should you travel with a water bottle.

There are many reasons! Traveling with a water bottle helps you save money, stay healthy and hydrated, drink clean, and support the environment.

What is the best filter water bottle for travel?

There are hundreds of different types of water bottles on the market. Make your choice based on your own needs and preferences, but pat yourself on the back for choosing to step away from environmentally damaging single-use plastics. These are a few of our favorites:

• CamelBak Chute Mag Water Bottle

Can you bring a stainless steel water bottle on an airplane?

Stainless steel water bottles are permitted to be taken on board an airplane. The water bottle must be empty when you pass through TSA.

What to consider when buying a water bottle for travel?

• Free of chemicals
• Easy to clean
• Filters and purifiers

Are there water bottles for hot and cold beverages?

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2024

If you’re looking to purchase a water bottle for outdoor adventures, an insulated bottle should be high on your list. Insulated bottles are designed to keep cold liquids colder longer (and hot liquids hotter) and are usually higher quality and more durable than their plastic counterparts.

Plus, having a reusable water bottle is great for the environment. For this review, we looked at water bottles that have some form of insulation (whether stainless steel construction or otherwise) and a good-sealing cap or lid. And we evaluated each on factors like insulation, shape and volume, durability, and price. All told, we’ve sourced, filled, and drained more than 40 different water bottles since 2021, and pulled together the top 15 in our line-up today.

These bottles didn’t get off easy, either. Each vessel underwent our in-house testing regimen, which saw them all examined for timed ice retention, a leak test, as well as a quasi-scientific taste test. Safe to say, these bottles have been vetted, and to choose the best of the best, we ranked each bottle on features, feedback from our testing, and price.

For more information about insulated water bottles, check out our Buyer’s Guide , Comparison Chart , and FAQ at the end of this article. Otherwise, top off your bottle and scroll through our picks for the best insulated water bottles of 2024.

Editor’s Note: Our team gave this Guide an update on May 16, 2024, with the addition of the RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle , our new Best Budget pick.

• Best Overall Insulated Water Bottle: Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
• Best Budget Insulated Water Bottle: RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle
• Most Durable Insulated Water Bottle: YETI Rambler Chug Water Bottle
• Best Water Bottle for Driving: Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler
• Best Insulated Can Cooler: YETI Rambler Colster
• Best Insulated Growler: MiiR Growler
• Best Insulated Water Bottle for Kids: Thermos Funtainer Bottle With Straw

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle

• Material Stainless steel
• Insulation type Double-wall vacuum
• BPA-free Yes
• Weight 1 lb., 2 oz. in 40 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 20, 24, 32, 40 and 64 fl. oz.

• Long-standing cold and heat retention
• Slim profile fits into many pockets and cupholders
• Wide mouth accommodates ice cubes
• Not impervious to dents

Sometimes you don’t want to mess with the OG. Hydro Flask’s Wide Mouth ($50) won out as the best insulated bottle, with a massive following both in the GearJunkie offices, as well as with adventurers abroad. There may only be so many ways to craft an insulated bottle today, but Hydro Flask hits the nail on the head with this one.

Astute observers will note that our top spot has long been occupied by Hydro Flask’s Standard Mouth offering, but all tides change eventually, and after consistent testing side by side, we now lean on our Wide Mouth bottle more to slake our thirst on a hot summer’s day. The wide mouth also better accommodates loading ice cubes in the bottle, keeping it ice cold for longer.

No matter the model, the brand’s double-wall vacuum insulation and pro-grade stainless steel construction are designed to maintain drink temperatures for hours without altering taste — an impressive 24 hours of cold and 12 hours of heat retention.

And we found during testing that this bottle is pretty durable as well, thanks to its powder-coated exterior. We will note that even the best has a limit, and dropping the Wide Mouth bottle from a good height is liable to lead to some dings.

Our testers raved about this bottle for its great insulation and lineup of more than 12 fun colors. Also, being on the skinnier side, it fits in most cup holders and pack pockets. While it also comes in 20-, 24- and 32-ounce sizes, we like the 40-ounce best for most activities. The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth is easily the bottle we reach for the most often as we head out the door.

RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle

• Weight 15.0 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 32, 36, and 40 fl. oz.

• Affordable Price
• Good heat and cold retention
• Flip-up lid allows drinking without removing the whole lid
• Available in over a dozen colors
• Not as heavy-duty as some other models

RTIC is a well-respected player in the cooler and drinkware market for offering high-quality, durable products at a more reasonable price than some of the other big brands. Their Vacuum Insulated Bottle ($20 for the 32-ounce size) hits the mark for simple quality at an unbeatable price.

The RTIC Bottle shares many similarities with comparable models from Hydro Flask and YETI, like stainless steel construction, double-wall vacuum insulation, and a powder-coated protective finish. We’re also big fans of the flip-top lid that lets you drink from the bottle without removing the entire lid. In our years of hydrating at home, at the office, in the car, or out in nature, we can’t tell you how many spills we’ve had with other bottles from accidentally leaving the lid partially open. It’s still possible to leak a little out of the flip-top lid, but you won’t be drenching yourself like you would with a completely open bottle.

While the RTIC Bottle looks and performs similarly to the Hydro Flask and YETI models, it doesn’t feel quite as heavy-duty and indestructible. Having said that, we haven’t experienced any quality or durability issues in our testing. Also remember that you can buy two RTIC Bottles for the same price of one of the others, which is why it earns our pick as the best value option.

YETI Rambler Chug Water Bottle

• Weight 1 lb., 3.2 oz. in the 18 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 18, 26, 36, 46, 64 fl. oz.

• Fits in most cup holders
• Available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and lid types
• Standard issue Chug cap isn’t for everyone

YETI’s 26-ounce Rambler Bottle ($40) is another amazing insulated bottle. This one is tied with our top choice for its stainless steel construction and insulating performance, however, it weighs slightly more — although that also gives it points for durability.

Available in an impressive five different volumes, there’s bound to be a Rambler bottle for any sized adventure you might be planning. The bottle comes standard with YETI’s Chug Cap, which is about the only controversial feedback among testers — some loved the two-part narrow mouth cap, and some didn’t.

A final note — one of the best parts of buying from an established brand like YETI is the broad range of supplementing accessories available. We counted five different lid styles available for the Rambler , which makes it a super versatile bottle to match whatever hydration needs you might have.

Of all of the insulated bottles we’ve tested over the years, offerings like the Rambler consistently held up better than their counterparts, making this bottle one tough option for those who leave the kid gloves at home.

YETI Rambler Colster

• Weight 9.6 oz. in 12 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 12 fl. oz., 12 fl. oz. Slim Can, 16 fl. oz. Tall Can

• Simple design with only two parts
• Truly keeps drinks chilled
• Not a one size fits all solution
• A little heavy

When the heat of the summer comes on, water isn’t the only thing we’re looking to slake our thirsts. Your favorite foam can koozie may get all the laughs, but a true insulating can cooler like the YETI Rambler Colster ($25) will keep your favorite beverage chilled for far longer. We found the Colster to be the best of the bunch, with a simple design that just plain works on a long day outside.

Made of the same double-wall stainless steel construction as the rest of YETI’s insulated offerings, the Colster retains the same high performance in a smaller package. And by utilizing a simple lock ring design, this can cooler will holster any 12-ounce can with ease, though it won’t accommodate the other can styles made today.

Luckily, YETI makes the Colster in additional 12-ounce Slim Can , and 16-ounce Tall Can versions. We did find the Colster a bit hefty for what it is but chalked it up to being necessary for adequate insulation.

For those who like to sip a little slower (or have trouble remembering which can they were drinking from), the Colster is the perfect companion to your next six-pack.

MiiR Growler

• Weight 1 lb., 13 oz. in 64 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 64 fl. oz.

• Handles carbonated beverages easily, no leaks here
• Lid and pour handle make for easy distribution
• Rubber seal can retain scents

One of the things that bedevil many insulated bottles is carbonated beverages — but not the 64-ounce MiiR Growler ($60). This insulated brewtainer keeps your favorite IPA locked down, thanks to an innovative threadless lid and locking clasp that seals in freshness and carbonation.

MiiR considered all the niceties as well, incorporating a lid that locks into place in the open position so as to not impede a good pour. The Growler holds an impressive 4 pints of liquid and keeps them chilled for a long time. We will note the rubber seal that’s used can hold onto the scent of whatever is stored last, but this can be removed and washed separately.

One of the things that sets MiiR apart from other manufacturers is the company’s ingrained global philanthropy, funded by a portion of the sales of every product. To date, MiiR has donated $3.75 million to various nonprofits, ranging from sustainable food systems to land and water protections. You can feel good knowing your Growler is doing something positive for the world.

Excellent for bringing the party with you (and keeping it chill), the MiiR Growler makes the cut for anyone looking to transport their brews and enjoy them too.

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler

• Weight 1.4 lbs in 40 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 14, 20, 30, 40, and 64 fl. oz.

• Car cup holder compatible even in larger sizes
• 3-position lid including reusable straw
• Large handle improves grip
• Lid is not leak-proof
• 40 fl. oz. size is quite heavy

At larger volumes, many insulated water bottles won’t fit in a car cup holder. The Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler ($45) solves this problem with a tapered bottom designed for cup holder compatibility, even in the 40-ounce size. Fill up this tumbler before your next road trip, and you’ll stay hydrated for the long haul. 

The 3-position lid features a reusable straw for sipping and a wider mouth opening for chugging. We especially liked using the straw while driving; it makes it easy to keep your eyes on the road while enjoying your beverage. It’s worth noting that the rotating mechanism on the lid does not seal, and this lid is not leakproof. If you are looking for a bottle to throw in your bag while on the go, this tumbler is not the ideal choice.

We recently brought the Stanley Quencher on a drive into the mountains for an overnight backpacking trip. Drinking water is important before big days in the mountains, and we hit the trail feeling well-hydrated. We left the tumbler half full in the car overnight, and we were pleasantly surprised to enjoy cool water after the trip, even though the car was sitting in the sun when we returned. 

While we wouldn’t recommend this for hiking or backpacking, the Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler is our new favorite road trip companion.

Thermos Funtainer Bottle With Straw

• Weight 4 oz. in 12 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 12, 16 fl. oz.

• Perfect size for lunch boxes and backpacks
• Built-in straw is easy to manage for kids
• Can leak from air hole if not closed properly

A fun and trusty water bottle is a great way to encourage your kids to stay hydrated. The 12-ounce Thermos Funtainer ($20) from Thermos is a durable, safe, and affordable bottle designed for kids of all ages. Plus, it comes with a built-in straw.

This compact and packable bottle comes in all sorts of kid-friendly colors and patterns. Though the capacity is a fairly small 12 ounces, it’s the perfect size for small hands. This bottle fits easily into most school bags and lunch boxes.

Made from BPA-free stainless steel, this bottle is both lightweight and thoroughly durable. The click-shut lid is easy to open and quite leakproof when properly closed (which was our only complaint). When tucked away with the lid closed, the Funtainer keeps liquids cold and refreshing for a full 12 hours.

Right at home in any lunch pail, the Thermos Funtainer keeps tykes hydrated all day long.

Igloo Sport Sipper Bottle

• Weight 14.4 oz. in 20 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 20 fl. oz.

• Budget price
• Rubberized bottle stays put
• Flattened edge on bottle improves grip and lines up straw
• Bail handle is a bit loose

Going budget doesn’t have to mean scraping the bottom of the barrel, and the Igloo Sport Sipper Bottle ($20) is proof positive of that. The brand has been getting coolers right for 75 years running, so it’s unsurprising that its foray into insulated bottles has produced a winner.

Built with a reliable stainless steel double wall construction, the Sport Sipper claims cold retention of up to 24 hours, and up to 6 hours with hot beverages — numbers that we were able to confirm in our own testing. Not too shabby for a cool $20 out of your pocket.

With a mostly round exterior profile, the Sport Sipper bottles also feature a flattened edge for your thumb along the front of the bottle. Not only does this give you some gripping power, but it also lines up the straw for quick access. Smart.

Flipping up the straw is a snap, and the rubberized bottom helps keep the important side down. The bail-style handle, while handy, was a bit floppy in our usage (and despite our best fixer efforts, no tightening of the hex screws would alleviate it). No deal breaker in our opinion, just something to keep in mind when toting the bottle around.

For less than you might spend on lunch, the Igloo Sport Sipper slides in as an affordable way to keep your beverages cool this summer.

Owala FreeSip Vacuum Water Bottle

• Weight 15.2 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 19, 22, 32, 40 fl. oz.

• Well constructed flip top lid
• FreeSip spout for sipping or gulping
• Tough powdercoating
• Handle doesn't lock out
• Not for use with hot liquids

When it comes to insulated water bottles, it’s tough to imagine anything new under the sun. But with a spout design that impressed us right out of the gate, the Owala FreeSip ($33) proves that there’s still innovation to be done.

While many other bottles have interchangeable lids that offer different means of drinking, the FreeSip spout is a bit of a hybrid, combining both a straw and open-mouth neck. You have the choice of either sipping or chugging. The whole affair is protected by a stout flip-top lid, and in testing, we came to really enjoy drinking from this bottle.

Backed up with a triple-layer vacuum construction, the Owala FreeSip has all the tech to do what insulated water bottles do best, and we had no problem keeping our water cool all day. Our only slight arose with the carry loop, which has a detent (or catch) for locking it down in the closed position, but not in the up.

Other than that small flaw, it’s perfect for drinking on the go. The FreeSip is high on our list of best water bottles on the market today.

Hydro Flask Insulated Sports Bottle

• Weight 14.1 oz. in 20 fl. oz. size

• Ergonomic grip
• Fits in bottle cage
• Cap is backward compatible with standard mouth Hydro Flask bottles
• Rigid, no-squeeze construction
• Mediocre flow rate
• Cap can whistle when sucking

A “sports bottle” might seem like an out-of-place inclusion in a roundup of Best Insulated Bottles, since on its face it’s an entirely different class. But Hydro Flask bucked that logic when it designed the insulated, double-wall stainless steel Sport Bottle ($40). It bears a striking similarity to the brand’s hallmark products, with a twist — or rather, a grip.

This 20-ounce, wide-mouth bottle has an ergonomic girdle that’s perfect for grabbing and holding while biking, running, walking, or even standing still. But that groove belies the real function of the Sport Bottle; while your instincts will tell you to squeeze the bottle, that’s not how it works.

A pop-spout sport cap, similar to a standard bike bottle, dispenses liquid with the help of a pinhole air valve. When upturned, water dribbles out mechanically. It’s not a gush, but it’s not painstakingly slow either.

It can be a little counterintuitive if you’re accustomed to squeeze bottles. And while you can suck to increase flow rate, you need to allow air to refill into the bottle to keep drinking. In other words, it’s not the fastest or most explosive bottle out there.

But it has all of Hydro Flask’s quintessential style and thermal performance, in an ergonomic, trendy design. Best of all, the Sport Bottle is compatible with any wide-mouth Hydro Flask lid, and likewise, the sport cap is backward-compatible with any previous wide-mouth bottle. So mix and match to your liking!

Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle

• Weight 16 oz. in 22 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 17, 22 fl. oz.

• One of the better straw-drinking lids
• Bottle shape fits well in your hand
• Only smaller volumes are available
• Can be difficult to clean

Borrowing from the company’s successes in the realm of thermoses , Stanley has produced a great insulated bottle with the IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle ($32). We don’t have too many straw-drinking lids in our review, but this bottle executed it perfectly.

The contoured bottle shape fits well in our hands, and the oversized bail on top meant we weren’t scrambling to keep a hold of it. Because it’s a straw bottle, you’re limited to only using cold liquids in it. Our biggest complaint, however, was the rubber seal is particularly deep inside the lid and not ideal for washing.

With a good pedigree, the IceFlow bottle comes from a long line of keeping hot things hot and cold things cold and is the perfect fit for walking and drinking on the go.

Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth

• Weight 12.6 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 21, 24, 32 fl. oz.

• Lightweight construction
• Same Hydro Flask build quality
• Higher price
• Temperature retention somewhat compromised by low weight

Hydro Flask’s new Lightweight Trail Series bottles have r eally won us over . If it weren’t for the price, this bottle might be in our top three.

The Lightweight Wide Mouth ($50) weighs just 11 ounces, has a perforated strap to keep weight down, and is designed to work with most backcountry water filters. Hydro Flask did some metal wizardry on this bottle, giving it tapered walls that are thicker on the bottom for durability, and thinner on top for weight savings.

Compared to the Wide Mouth Hydro Flask , we did note some diminished ability to keep drinks cold for as long, but the difference is small. When you’re counting ounces, the Lightweight Wide Mouth comes in clutch.

Klean Kanteen Insulated TKWide With Twist Cap

• Weight 1 lb., 4 oz. in 32 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 12, 16, 20, 32, 64 fl. oz.

• Fully insulated cap increases temperature retention
• Stainless steel cap bottom means there’s a full steel interior
• Lid can be a bit hard to grasp

This Klean Kanteen bottle ($45) has a wide mouth, is vacuum-insulated, and holds 32 ounces of your drink of choice. It’s more expensive than others on this list but has everything you need: a cap and fold-down carry handle, a stainless steel interior, and insulation to keep liquids hot for 24 hours and iced for an incredible 83!

We were especially impressed with the thought put into the lid design. Using what Kleen Kanteen calls its TK Closure, the internal threads of the bottle are more like rows of bumps, meaning fewer nooks and crannies to clean. The lid is also fully vacuum insulated and sports a stainless steel bottom, meaning your water only sees steel on the inside of this bottle.

Some testers commented they didn’t like the ergonomics of the lid. We noted that it’s slightly narrower and shorter than other wide-mouths on this list. But if that’s no bother to you, the Kleen Kanteen TKWide bottle could be for you.

Purist Mover Bottle

• Material Stainless steel & glass
• Weight 12.2 oz. in 18 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 18, 32 fl. oz.

• Glass lining eliminates any metallic taste from water
• Sleek fit and look
• Painted finish scratches easily

Purist uses a glass interior coating to combat the odors and flavors some don’t like in their stainless steel bottles. Meanwhile, the exterior sports the tried-and-true stainless steel construction for durability. The brand’s medium size, the Mover 18-ounce bottle ($50), has a convenient sipping cap.

We also liked testing the 32-ounce, wide-mouth size (same insulation and materials, just holds more), although the 18-ounce fits much better in cupholders, packs, and bags. We like the muted colors and professional aesthetic of this brand.

Unfortunately, we did find the Purist Mover Bottle to be a bit lacking when it came to scratch prevention. With no powder coat finish, scratches showed up easily in the painted finish. For the price, this was a bit disappointing. For those who place taste above all else, however, the Mover bottle makes no exceptions.

CamelBak MultiBev Water Bottle

• Weight 1 lb., 5 oz. in 16/22 fl. oz. size
• Available volumes 12/17, 16/22 fl. oz.

• Many options for sharing beverages
• Keeps drinks cold for a long time
• Heavy design
• A bit fiddly to keep track of all the parts

This is by no means a bottle you’ll want to take backpacking, but it’s a really cool design. CamelBak designed the MultiBe v ($50) for just what it sounds like — multiple beverages on the go. This bottle separates into both an insulated bottle, and a cup.

It’s great to fill up with water or coffee at the start of your day, and then have a reusable and insulated option for other drinks later. The incorporated cup is also great for sharing, and both components hold the cold and hot temps well.

Because it is so feature-rich, we did find a few things fiddly to handle, such as the Roll and Fold silicone lid, which stows in the main lid of the MultiBe v . That aside, it did give our testers a lot of flexibility in doling out beverages at the end of a hot day.

Insulated Water Bottle Comparison Chart

How We Tested Insulated Water Bottles

Long a holdout to the niceties of an insulated bottle, GearJunkie Senior Editor Nick Belcaster finally came around to the wonders of insulated water bottles after being gifted a Hydro Flask. It turns out that having ice-cold water hours after leaving the house is worth it.

When you work and play in extreme environments, the benefits of keeping hot water hot and cold water cold start to click. Contributor Katie Griffith originally sought an insulated bottle so she could sip on a liter of hot chocolate during an ice climbing trip. Now she packs her Hydro Flask every day for work as a rock climbing guide in Joshua Tree and savors each gulp of cold water in the desert heat. 

Many in the GearJunkie offices enjoy bringing an insulated bottle to work, and we tapped into this collective knowledge to assemble our list of bottles. We then put them through the wringer and pulled together the best of the best insulated bottles you see here.

We started our foray into the world of insulated water bottles in 2021 with a slate of 14 bottles, aiming to cut through the noise and distill down a huge market into a handful of the best insulated water bottles available. In order to test our slate of insulated bottles, we subjected them to common-place use, such as on hot day hikes, bike commuting, or airline travel. We paid close attention to how long each bottle held onto chilled water as well as important issues such as leaking or denting.

In 2023, we expanded our horizons when Nick looked afar for the best bottles for more special circumstances, and tested models to include the best options for insulated growlers, can coolers, and self-cleaning water bottles. 

At the end of 2023, we tweaked our choices again, pivoting some of our award winners to newly updated standard bearers, and added significantly to our Buyer’s Guide to really dig deep into subjects such as volume, materials, and styles.

In 2024, we added a few additional products to the mix, including popular models from RTIC and Stanley.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose an Insulated Water Bottle

It’s worth noting that this article specifically covers the best insulated water bottles. We also have a separate gear guide for the best thermoses , for when the temps dip and a hot drink is needed. You may also want to read up on the best backpacking water filters .

Style of Insulated Bottle

Insulated bottles come in many shapes and sizes. Some closely resemble other plastic sports bottles with spill-proof, screw-top lids. The best overall bottle, Hydro Flask’s Wide Mouth , falls into this category. These are often the most versatile option and may replace your Nalgene when weight isn’t a big factor. 

Beyond the standard water bottle, this list also includes tumblers, can coolers, and growlers. A tumbler more closely resembles a cup with a lid than a water bottle. The Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler is great for all-day hydration, but the lid is not spill-proof. You can’t pack it in a backpack like other water bottles. 

Other styles are even more specialized, like the MiiR Growler . This insulated container is designed specifically for storing carbonated beverages like beer or kombucha. The lid functions to seal in carbonation and freshness; you wouldn’t need this for your daily beverages. The YETI Rambler Colster is also not designed for direct drinking; this insulated can cooler slides around your bubbly water or beer to keep it chilled. 

Pick a water bottle with enough volume for all your activities. If you really love one particular insulated bottle, consider getting two sizes — one for daily use and one with more volume for longer trips or travel. (Also consider if the bottle you’ve chosen will work with a water filter or in your pack pocket if you know you’ll be taking it with you on the trail.) If you spend a lot of time driving, note that after a certain volume, fitting into most cup holders isn’t going to happen.

Most bottles we tested are available in volumes from around 12 to 64 ounces. A 12 or 16-ounce bottle is ideal for morning coffee or tea, while you’ll likely want a 24- or 32-ounce bottle to stay hydrated. For all-day, outdoor activities, bringing at least two liters of water is typically recommended, which would translate to about 64 ounces of capacity. We find that two 32-ounce bottles fit easier in a backpack than one 64-ounce vessel. 

Make sure the bottle you choose lists how long it keeps water (or other liquids) cold. The standard is 24 hours, but we’ve noticed in many of these bottles the contents will stay colder for longer . You’ll want to know how good the insulation is, especially if you live in a hotter climate.

What are the interior and exterior materials? Most insulated bottles use some form of stainless steel double-wall insulation, but not all, like the triple-wall build of the Owala FreeSip . Also, look at the exterior material: Is there a powder coating? Does it reduce condensation? Is there a rubber grip or protective design on the base?

Once you find a bottle you think will work for you, pick out a fun color while you’re at it! Colors are mainly just a preference but can also help identify your bottle in a crowd.

Temperature Retention

One of the most important aspects of an insulated bottle, temperature retention is how well it keeps the hot things hot and the cold things cold. The majority of insulated bottles will use some type of vacuum insulation to achieve this. 

Heat energy needs mass to travel through, so by removing the air in between the two layers of the bottle, the liquid inside is able to retain its temperature for longer. We’ve found that most bottles are able to keep hot liquids hot for around 12 hours and cold liquids cold for about 24.

An insulated water bottle is basically a thermos with different design features. Most thermoses are also built with vacuum insulation, but they typically come with a lid designed for pouring hot liquid and a cap that doubles as a small cup for sipping tea or coffee. 

Lids on thermoses can also be more effective at keeping liquids hot or cold. The lids on insulated water bottles focus on hydration, with straws like the Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler or open tops like the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth . 

Don’t get us wrong; the insulated bottles we tested are still great at temperature retention. We filled the Stanley Quencher halfway with half-inch ice cubes and no water. After 24 hours in a 65-70 degree room, we found some water, but most of the ice cubes had shrunk only 50%.

Metal bottles can sometimes impart a metallic taste to water, often after being left for a long period of time. Bottles like the Purist Mover implement a silicon dioxide coating on the interior of the bottom to create a glass-like barrier. This can greatly reduce the metal taste that is imparted to water.

Keeping insulated bottles clean is also important to limit any off-tastes. Pay attention to how easy the bottle might be to clean. Look at the threads on the lid as well as how easy it is to remove any gaskets for cleaning. Many bottles are marked as dishwasher safe on the top rack but not all.

A quick tip for cleaning your insulated bottle: Mix two to three tablespoons of baking soda and warm water and shake inside your bottle. Let sit for a few hours and then rinse out with water.

Lids & Handles

A bad lid can ruin an insulated bottle. Manufacturers understand consumers have many uses for their bottles and produce a number of different lids to fit them. The most basic will be a simple screw cap, but there are also lids that incorporate straws, flip closures, and even magnets.

Lids will also have a good bit to do with the mouth style of the bottle. Narrow-mouth bottles can make sipping directly from the bottle nice and easy but will limit your ability to put ice into the bottle. Wide-mouth bottles can accept things like water filters with ease, but without a steady hand, they can lead to some spillage.

Some lids are designed to be leak-proof when closed, and some are not. YETI’s 26-ounce Rambler Bottle , for example, features a secure lid that doesn’t allow spillage when screwed on correctly. The Stanley Quencher is not leak-proof and doesn’t claim to be; what it sacrifices in spillage it makes up for in ease of sipping with the reusable straw. The rotating cover helps reduce leaking but doesn’t prevent it. 

Our tester performed a leak test on the Quencher by adding food coloring to water inside the bottle, screwing it shut, turning it on its side, and timing both types of covers for ten seconds. The Quencher was nearly full during the test. With the rotating cover closed, a small blue puddle formed on a paper towel within a short time. With the straw still in place, a big puddle spilled over a paper towel almost immediately. 

At their most basic, insulated bottles are sleek cylinders, which aren’t the most stable. Having a lid that you can clip a carabiner to can ensure it won’t make an escape. Others will sport a layer of silicone to improve grip or a contoured shape that fits your hand. We found the Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle to be one of the nicest to handle.

Lastly, think hard about your budget. These bottles are an investment but totally worth it, especially if (like us) you spend lots of time outside. And before buying, always check to see if your favorite bottle is on sale.

You can find insulated bottles that won’t break the bank in the $15-25 range like the RTIC Vacuum Insulated Bottle and the Igloo Sport Sipper. Some of our favorites lie in the $30-50 range, including the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth or the YETI Rambler Vacuum Bottle. Though a little spendier, both of these come in larger volumes and feature a coating that improves durability. 

The most specialized bottles come with the highest price tag, including the MiiR Growler, Hydro Flask Lightweight Wide Mouth , and Purist Mover Bottle . All sports technologies that go above and beyond daily hydration needs like holding in carbonation, adding a taste-free liner, or being made from uber-thin materials to cut down weight.

On this list, we have selected the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth 40-ounce bottle as the best overall insulated water bottle. This option provides a useful blend of quality insulation and heavy-duty construction. We also like that it fits easily in most cup holders.

Still, the best-insulated water bottle is the one that meets your needs. If you are looking for a bottle with smaller volume, you may want to go with the 26-ounce YETI Rambler or 32-ounce Owala FreeSip .

All of the bottles on this list will do a great job at keeping your hot liquids hot and your cold liquids cold for impressively long periods. That said, the YETI Rambler Chug Water Bottle performs exceptionally well when filled with hot contents. It’s a lightweight bottle that keeps liquids piping hot and is thoroughly leakproof.

It is important to regularly clean reusable water bottles to prevent the growth of bacteria. Many insulated water bottles are dishwasher safe, and others can be easily cleaned with dish soap and hot water.

On this list, many of the bottles are made from easy-to-clean materials such as stainless steel and linings such as glass or copper. After cleaning, it is a good idea to take the cap off of your bottle and let it fully air dry.

Generally, it is safe to fill insulated water bottles with contents other than water. For coffee and tea, an insulated water bottle can allow you to enjoy a hot drink all through the morning.

However, it is especially important that you clean your bottle thoroughly after filling it with anything other than water. Because of the different shapes of insulated bottles, some are easier to clean than others.

For food like hot soup or oatmeal, you’re going to be better off with a food-specific thermos. These are similar to insulated water bottles, but their short and stout shape makes them easier to use and clean. A good thermos can keep hot food at a safe temperature for hours — an excellent counterpart to an insulated bottle!

Yes, many insulated water bottles are dishwasher-safe. Always double-check the manufacturer’s directions before washing your bottle. If your bottle is not dishwasher-safe, it can be cleaned with hot water, a little dish soap, and a thorough rinsing.

Always check to see what the manufacturer suggests. Many insulated water bottles can be washed in the dishwasher, which is an effective way to thoroughly remove any bacteria that may be present.

If washing by hand, scrub the inside and outside of the bottle with hot water and dish soap. Be sure to fully clean out the threads on both the cap and bottle. After cleaning, let all parts fully air dry.

Thanks to hardy stainless steel or ceramic construction, a good insulated water bottle should last many years — or potentially decades for the careful owner. We’ve all seen those old green Stanley bottles that are three decades old and still going strong.

The biggest threat to insulated water bottles is puncturing. If the double or triple-walled insulation of your bottle is punctured, it will lose its ability to insulate. To prevent this, avoid dropping your bottle onto jagged or hard surfaces. Plastic insulated water bottles are less prone to dents and punctures, but they are generally not as rugged overall.

If an insulated bottle becomes punctured, it will lose its vacuum and be replaced by air molecules. Since there is now matter in between the inner and outer bottles, heat transfer occurs much quicker.

To test if your bottle still has its vacuum sealing: Carefully fill the bottle with boiling water and wait five minutes. Then feel for any hot spots, which would indicate loss of insulation.

The Best Thermoses of 2024

If you want your favorite liquids to stay hot all day, check out our roundup of the best thermoses of 2024. Get ready to warm up with a hot drink.

The Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

We tested the best backpacking water filters and purifiers for your next trip into the great outdoors.

Mary Murphy is the Managing Editor of GearJunkie. She has been writing about hiking, running, climbing, camping, skiing, and more for eight years, and has been on staff at GearJunkie since 2019. Prior to that, Mary wrote for 5280 Magazine in Denver while working as an outdoor instructor teaching climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and mountain biking. Based in Denver, Colorado, Murphy is an avid hiker, runner, backpacker, skier, yogi, and pack-paddleboarder.

Katie is a freelance writer and gear tester with GearJunkie. She has been writing about climbing, mountaineering, and backpacking for five years. In addition to freelance writing, she teaches clinics and runs women’s climbing events as a guide and instructor for She Moves Mountains. Based in Joshua Tree, CA, and Index, WA, Katie loves climbing splitter cracks in the mountains, riding her bicycle, and cooking yummy food for her friends.

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“Your trusted companion whether you’re hitting the road or your morning spin class.”

The Quencher H2.0 FlowState™ Tumbler | 40 OZ

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Details & Specifications

• 90% Recycled 18/8 stainless steel, BPA-free
• Recycled stainless steel icon inside the tumbler indicates your Quencher is made from sustainable material
• Double-wall vacuum insulation
• Powder coat finish
• FlowState™ screw-on 3-position lid
• Reusable straw
• Comfort-grip handle
• Car cup holder compatible (base diameter: 3.1 inches)
• Dishwasher safe

The Key Features

The lid rotates to the straw opening, drink spout opening, or closed position.

The body of every Quencher is made with BPA-free 90% recycled 18/8 stainless steel.

You can pop your Quencher in the dishwasher or wash by hand, if you prefer.

Good news! Sizes up to 40 oz will comfortably fit most car and truck cupholders.

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The quencher h2.0 flowstate™ tumbler | 40 oz.

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Travel-Friendly Water Bottles That Don't Spill, Leak or Get Moldy & Gross

From lightweight plastic to insulating stainless steel, from easy to gulp wide mouths to convenient sipping straws, these are the best water bottles to withstand your next trip..

We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

TL;DR: The Best Travel-Friendly Water Bottles:

• The Best Overall: Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle , $27.99
• The Most Budget-Friendly Plastic Bottle: Pogo Plastic Water Bottle , $9.99
• The Most Budget-Friendly Stainless Steel Bottle: MIRA Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle , $13.95
• The Bottle That Folds Up: Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle , $35.95
• The Most Lightweight: CamelBak Podium Bike Water Bottle , $10.89
• The Bottle That Comes with Three Lids: FineDine Insulated Water Bottle , $22.99

When I was a kid, I never remember drinking water. I swear that I survived on SunnyD and Kool-Aid ( it was the 90s ). But now that I'm older and wiser, and have finally figured out what pants look good on me , I know how important it is to stay hydrated (especially when you're traveling). And one of the easiest ways to get that hydration is with a reusable water bottle that easily fits in your bag, purse, or carry-on luggage . The best water bottles for traveling are made of plastic or stainless steel and feature the lid, spout, or straw that you prefer. Plus, it should have a leakproof design so you can throw it in your bag without worry (all of the bottles below promise to be leakproof). Lastly, keep an eye out for bottles with filtration options, which are essential when you're camping or in a place where you don't trust the water. Scroll down for features and some tips for water bottle cleanliness.

What Features Should You Consider in a Water Bottle When You're Traveling?

There are a few different features you can look for in a travel-friendly water bottle. Essentially, it all comes down to your personal preference, but here's what you should keep in mind:

• Material & Insulation:  What your water bottle is made of will affect its durability, how it maintains temperature, and how much it weighs. Stainless steel, although durable, is prone to dents and scratches over time, but they can have insulation that keeps water cold for up to 6 hours, typically. Plastic water bottles won't keep drinks as cold, but they're lightweight, which is super important if you're traveling. There's even plastic bottles that are collapsible or fold into themselves for increased portability. Glass bottles are another option, but due to their weight and ability to break, I kept them off this list. 
• Lids & Spouts:  Water bottle lids vary, but you'll typically see straws, screw tops, chug caps, and sports caps. What you choose depends on your personal preference. Straw lids include an external spout that flips up on the cap and connects to an internal straw that must be cleaned separately. A screw top usually comes with a handle for convenient carrying and is ideal for quick gulps, but may be hard to sip from in a moving car. And sports caps have a plastic, rubber, or silicone piece that releases water when you squeeze the bottle.

 Whether you're getting on a plane, train, or automobile, these are the best travel-friendly water bottles to keep you hydrated and refreshed every step of the way.

The Best Overall

Owala freesip insulated stainless steel water bottle, 24 oz..

With a sleek design and several cute color combinations, the Owala stainless steel water bottle looks stylish and has some great features. It's got a built-in straw for sipping, but the spout can also be used for swigging, and a leakproof lid that protects the spout (a plus when you're on the go). Beverages inside can stay cold for up to 24 hours, it's dishwasher-safe, comes in four size options, and it's backed by a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from over 31,000 reviews.

The Most Budget-Friendly Plastic Water Bottle

Pogo plastic water bottle, 32 oz..

Priced under $10, the Pogo plastic bottle is a great budget-friendly pick. The chug spout is protected by a flip cap and there's a convenient carry loop for taking it on the go. It's dishwasher safe and comes in 18-ounce, 32-ounce, and 40-ounce sizing.

The Most Budget-Friendly Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Mira stainless steel vacuum insulated water bottle, 17 oz..

Available in a 17-ounce and 25-ounce option, plus several color options, this stainless steel water bottle is sleek and priced under $16. It can keep hot liquids hot for up to 12 hours and cold liquids cold for up to 24 hours. The sleek, leakproof design and chug spout is easy to slip into any bag on any trip.

The Water Bottle That Folds Up

Nomader collapsible water bottle, 25 oz..

With easy folding capabilities, the Nomader is a solid pick for the way it takes up zero space in your bag. It's made of a silicone body and features a leakproof cap, a carry strap, and a wide mouth, which makes cleaning easy. Heat-resistant and freezer-safe, it can also hold up to a lot of wear and tear. 

The Best Water Bottle with a Spout Lid

Takeya actives insulated stainless steel water bottle, 22 oz..

The Takeya stainless steel water bottle features a protect spout lid, leakproof design, and a convenient carry loop that's perfect for on the go hydration. It comes in five size options and can keep cold drinks cold for up to 24 hours.

The Best Wide Mouth Water Bottle

Nalgene wide mouth water bottle, 32 oz..

I've had my Nalgene for years and love its durability and how easy it is to clean. Made of plastic, it's lightweight, leakproof, and comes in a few colors. There's a wide mouth for chugging and a carrying loop for convenient portability.

The Most Lightweight Water Bottle

Camelbak podium bike water bottle, 21oz..

Weighing just 2.57 ounces, this CamelBak plastic water bottle feels like nothing in your bag. It's designed for biking, so it features a squeezable design for instant hydration. The spout is also protected by a cap, which is great for keeping out dirt and impurities.

The Best Water Bottle with a Straw

Hydracy water bottle, 32 oz..

If you like to sip your water, the Hydracy stainless steel water bottle is a solid pick. It has a built-in straw that flips up, and is protected by a leakproof cap, plus a carrying loop. There are four size options, lots of colors available, and it even comes with time markers for drinking.

The Best No-Frills Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Hydro flask stainless steel standard mouth water bottle, 24 oz..

For a reliable stainless steel water bottle with a simple design, the Hydo Flask is a great option. It has a leakproof, screw top lid, carry loop, and you can get it in four sizes and 18 colors. You can put it in the dishwasher for cleaning and it's backed by a near-perfect 4.8-star rating from 23,000 Amazon reviewers. One shopper raved that it's a "superior drinking experience."

The Water Bottle That Comes with Three Lids

Finedine insulated water bottle, 25 oz..

If you like the option to sip or chug, this stainless steel water bottle is for you. It includes three lids, a built-in straw top, screw top, and flip top, and can keep cold drinks chill for up to 24 hours. You can toss it in the dishwasher for cleaning, and it's available in four sizes and 18 color options.

The Best Water Bottle with a Built-In Filter

Brita insulated filtered water bottle, 20 oz..

Bring your Brita filter everywhere with this Brita stainless steel water bottle . With a leakproof design and a built-in straw with a filter, it can improve the taste and odor of your water. There's a carry loop, it keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours, and one user raved, "I work in a fast moving job and need a lot of water, but don't want to drink from the tap as our water is funky. This has worked really well so I don't have to buy bottled water all the time to stay hydrated. Easy to use and clean."

The Best Water Bottle For Sketchy Water

Grayl ultrapress purifier, 16.9 oz..

If you're traveling outdoors or in a place where you're not sure about the drinking water, you must get a GRAYL . I used it for drinking the tap water in India and the streams in Iceland, with no problem. It's so easy to use, just fill it up, press down, and sip, while the activated carbon filters purify your water. It's worth the price, I promise you.

How Can You Keep Your Water Bottle Clean & Prevent Mold?

If you leave water sitting in your bottle for a few days it can start to attract mold spores and every time you take a sip, you may transfer bacteria from your mouth to the lip, straw, spout, or lid of your bottle. In order to avoid that gross buildup, make sure to wash your bottle out daily, or at least once a week. A quick scrub with soap and water will usually suffice, or you could do a deeper clean by soaking the bottle in equal parts water and white vinegar for 30 minutes. Or just run in the dishwasher (if it's dishwasher-safe). If you have a bottle with a straw or places where mold can settle, a bottle brush set is a great investment to get into those nooks and crannies.

OXO Good Grips Water Bottle Cleaning Set

Featuring a brush for your water bottle, plus a straw brush and detail brush, this cleaning set is a must-have accessory for any water bottle. They're even connected via ring so you'll always have them all together. It also comes with over 8,000 5-star Amazon reviews, with one fan reporting, "You can't beat the sturdiness, the benefits, or the quality of this set. It's easily worth twice the price."

Traveling solo? Then check out these essentials that can make that trip relaxing and fun .

—Originally published Feb. 4, 2024 at 3 AM PT.

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The best reusable water bottles of 2024: Shop Stanley, Owala and more

Whether you’re always on the go or just want to stay hydrated, a reusable water bottle is the perfect way to keep track of your water intake — especially if you’re trying to hit daily hydration goals. In fact, The National Academy of Medicine recommends women and men, aged 19 to 30, drink nine and 13 cups of water a day, respectively. A reusable water bottle can also save you money and help the environment by cutting down on single-use plastics in the long run: around 14 million tons of plastic ends up in the ocean every year, according to a 2023 report from the U.S. Department of the Interior . Plus, some vacuum-insulated water bottles, like the ones we recommend below, can keep your drinks cold for up to 24 hours.

Whatever your motivation is for buying a new reusable water bottle, there are a few key factors to keep in mind when shopping. We spoke with a  consumer product expert and a microbiologist to learn more about what to look for.

SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best reusable water bottles | The best reusable water bottles in 2024 | How to shop for a water bottle 

Selected. Our top picks

How we picked the best reusable water bottles

To find the best reusable water bottles on the market, we spoke with three experts including Steve Whitworth, the director of product at Rtic , a retailer that sells outdoor gear such as insulated drinkware, Dr. Philip Tierno, a microbiologist with more than forty years of experience and Josh York, founder of in-home personal training service, Gymguyz , about what to look for in a high-quality reusable water bottle. Here’s what  they recommend keeping  in mind:

• Vacuum insulation: Most of the reusable water bottles on our list are made of steel or glass, which have vacuum insulating properties. This is what helps keep water ice cold for extended amounts of time. This is especially important if you prefer chilled water over room-temperature or tepid water. Plus, stainless steel water bottles are less likely to harbor germs, according to experts. Tierno prefers to use reusable bottles with metal liners, because they’re easier to clean and don’t support the adherence of microbes.
• Size and shape: The size and shape of a bottle impacts how you use it and how much value you’ll get out of it. If hydration is your main priority, especially if you workout regularly, then you’ll want a large bottle that’ll help you get your recommended daily water intake. “It’s also important to consider how you are transporting your bottle,” York says. “If you’re keeping it in a gym bag, a handle may not matter so much, but if you’re biking or carrying it, a handle will definitely come in handy.” Also, take into account whether or not the bottle would fit comfortably in different types of cup holders, such as ones on backpacks and treadmills or in shoulder bags and cars. 
• Easy to clean: “If you aren’t going to have time to wash your bottle by hand, make sure to read on the packaging that it’s dishwasher safe,” says York. While some manufacturers say that their reusable water bottles are dishwasher safe, there are many that are not. While you can clean bottles with small lids by hand, it’s much easier to thoroughly clean bottles with wide mouths, which is why most of our selections have them.

select You should be cleaning your reusable water bottle every single day

The best reusable water bottles in 2024.

To help you choose the best reusable water bottle, we compiled a list of highly rated options along with NBC Select-staff favorites. Based on expert advice, most of the water bottles we recommend are stainless steel, but we also included a few that are plastic or glass. Most of the water bottles on our list also have several lid options to choose from. Lastly, some of the bottles on this list are suitable for holding hot drinks, while others are not, which you should keep in mind if you like beverages like tea.

Owala FreeSip Water Bottle

Owala sent a few samples of their bottles to the  NBC Select staff to try, including the FreeSip water bottle, which comes in 21 bright and neutral colorways. This particular model is a favorite of NBC Select commerce editor Lindsay Schneider . “It has a dual-sipping system that I really like,” she says. “You can sip through the straw or throw your head back and sip like you would out of a glass, so it’s really versatile.” The bottle is available in a range of sizes and color combinations. Plus, the bottle’s dual-wall insulation helps keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours at a time, according to the brand. The bottle is not suitable for hot drinks, however, according to the brand.

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 16, 24, 32, 40 oz. | Colorways: 21 | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Only cold | Dishwasher-safe: Only the lid (hand wash bottle)

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate™ Tumbler  

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate™ Tumbler

The Stanley Quencher Flowstate Tumbler, commonly referred to as “ the Stanley ,” is arguably the most popular water bottle on this list. It’s hugely popular, in part, because of its size options, which range up to 64 ounces, though only bottles that are 30 ounces and above have handles. It can also keep beverages cold for hours, according to the brand. “I think it’s super stylish, I love the colors and I even have a little flower accessory on top to keep the straw closed,” says NBC Select updates editor Mili Godio . “I also think it’s really functional because it has a handle that makes it super easy to carry around.” The bottle is suitable for iced, cold and hot drinks, according to the brand.

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 14, 20, 30, 40 and 64 oz, | Colorways: 30+ | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes  

Bkr TuTu Big Bottle

While many bottles are plastic or steel, this Bkr bottle has a  glass construction and removable silicone sleeve, which comes in several muted shades, like pink and mint. “This is the water bottle I use at home, especially when gardening in the backyard,” says NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown . “I prefer glass over plastic because it motivates me to take better care of the bottle.” The water bottle is easy to take apart and clean by hand— the silicone covering slides on and off easily.  Plus, the bottle is dishwasher safe, according to the brand. You can also use the carry loop on the leak-proof cap to attach the water bottle to a bag for easy portability. The bottle is fine to use with hot or cold drinks, according to the brand.

Material: Glass | Sizes: 8, 16 and 32 oz. | Colorways: 16 | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler with Handle

Hydro Flask makes various water bottle styles, including this sturdy travel tumbler, which NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin is a huge fan of. “It holds so much water and keeps it cool all day. I love the squishy straw and how easily the top pops off when I need to refill it,” says Malin. The bottle is available in unique shades and different sizes, though only the 32- and 40-ounce tumblers have handles. The tumbler is also dishwasher safe and suitable for both hot and cold drinks, according to the brand.

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 20, 28, 32 and 40 oz. | Colorways: 15 | Suitable for hot and cold: drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Stanley Iceflow Flip Straw Tumbler

The Stanley Iceflow Flip Straw Tumbler is another great alternative to the Stanley Quencher. NBC Select commerce editor Cory Fernandez has used this bottle for months and likes the carrying handle on the top. “It makes it easy to carry the bottle, and since there’s not a bulky side handle, I don’t worry about it fitting in most drink holders or bags,” he says. You can also attach the handle to a clip on your bag so it’s great for everyday activities and outdoor hobbies, like hiking . Malin also uses this during hot yoga and other workout classes. “​​The flip up straw never leaks when I open or close it and I love that it has a handle on the top,” says Malin.

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 20, 30, 40, 64 and 96 ounces | Colorways: 30+ | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle

You can customize this NBC Select Wellness Award winner for best water bottle  with different caps and lids , including  a press-in lid (that slides open and shut), a flex cap (that twists on and off) and a chug cap. The stainless steel bottle is made with double-wall vacuum insulation that helps keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks warm for up to 12 hours, according to the brand. The bottle is also a favorite of NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez . “I’ve been using my Hydro Flask for years now and after trying multiple options it’s still my go-to reusable water bottle,” she says. “My favorite thing is that when you screw off the top, the opening is large enough for ice.”

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 20, 32, 40 and 64 oz. | Colorways: 16 | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Yeti Rambler Water Bottle

Yeti is a pioneer in the cooler space, so it’s not surprising that the brand also makes great water bottles. Available in eight sizes, the dishwasher-safe Yeti Rambler , like other bottles on our list, uses double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks hot, or cold for hours, according to the brand. If you don’t like the screw-on lid it comes with, you can buy other types, such as the bottle straw cap and the magslider lid , separately. NBC Select editorial operations manager Rebecca Rodriguez , who self-identifies as a clutz, says the tumbler’s Straw Cap has prevented many spills.

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 18, 26, 36, 46 and 64 ounces | Colorways:  25+ | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes Dishwasher-safe: Yes  

S’well Water Bottle

S’well bottles are made of durable stainless steel that can keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for 12 hours, according to the brand. The bottles come in several fun colors, patterns and sizes. It also has a condensation-free exterior, so it doesn’t leave droplets on the outside from cold beverages, according to the brand. The S’well is not dishwasher-safe, but you can purchase a cleaning brush to clean the inside of the bottle when you hand wash it. 

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes:   9, 17, and 25 ounces| Colorways: 30+ | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes ​​| Dishwasher-safe: Hand wash only

Takeya Originals Spout Bottle

This dishwasher-safe stainless steel bottle comes with a lifetime warranty and can keep beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for 12 hours, according to Takeya. It has a leak-proof spout lid that’s easy to sip on the go. Former NBC Select editor Christina Colizza has owned hers for years and says that it endured multiple falls on hikes and hard floors, without a scratch or spill.

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 18, 22, 24, 32 and 40 ounces | Colorways: 10 | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes

ThermoFlask Bottle with Chug Lid and Straw Lid

This ThermoFlask bottle comes with two lids — a Chug Lid that twists off, and a Straw Lid that pops open — and is available in five sizes. If you don’t like either of those  lids , you can purchase other options, including a Spout Lid and a Travel Mug Lid , separately from the brand. Like other bottles on our list, it also has double-wall vacuum insulation to help with temperature regulation. 

Material: Stainless steel | Sizes: 18, 24, 32, 40 and 64 oz. | Colorways: 5 | Suitable for hot and cold drinks: Yes | Dishwasher-safe: Yes

Larq Self-Cleaning Water Bottle

Larq’s water bottle has UV-C light sanitizing technology, which is a great feature if you’re often in a hurry and don’t always have time to hand wash the bottle. The Larq technology sanitizes the bottle every two hours and eliminates up to 99% of bacteria and viruses, according to the brand. The stainless steel bottle, which has a 4.3-star average rating from 900 reviews on Amazon, is also double-wall vacuum insulated to keep water cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12 hours.

Material : Stainless steel | Sizes : 24 and 32 oz. | Colorways : 5 | Suitable for hot and cold drinks : Yes | Dishwasher-safe : Hand wash only

Simple Modern Insulated Water Bottle

The Simple Modern summit water bottle is highly customizable — it’s available in sizes ranging from 14 ounces to 40 ounces and with both flip straw and chug lids. Plus, it comes in over 20 different shades and patterns. It’s made of stainless steel and has double-wall vacuum insulation to keep drinks cold, though the brand doesn’t recommend using it with hot or carbonated beverages. The bottle has a 4.7-star average rating from over 11,000 reviews on Amazon.

Material : Stainless steel | Sizes : 14, 18, 22, 32 and 40 oz. | Colorways : 20+ | Suitable for hot and cold drinks : Only cold | Dishwasher-safe : Only the lid (hand wash bottle)

How to shop for a reusable water bottle

If you only  need your water bottle to hold water, then almost any model will suffice. However, if factors like temperature control, durability and ease of use are important to you, then you’ll want to consider each water bottle’s material and lid type when buying.

Water bottles are typically made with three main types of materials: metal, plastic and glass. Steve Whitworth, director of product at Rtic Outdoors, where he develops products and campagnes for the brand, helped break down some of the major pros and cons of each.

• Metal water bottles are the most common option, though they can be the most expensive. They are vacuum insulated, which means they “keep contents hot or cold for many hours. They tend to be relatively lightweight and durable, and unlike glass and plastic, condensation does not form on it. “Stainless steel is nearly indestructible and cannot be beaten,” says Whitworth. 
• Plastic water bottles are the most lightweight and they’re generally pretty durable and easy to clean. However, they’re usually not insulated and tend to have condensation issues, which can make the water bottle both wet and slippery. You also cannot use plastic water bottles with hot liquids — the bottle could warp or even melt.
• Glass water bottles are often dishwasher-safe, making them easy to clean. However, like plastic bottles, glass is not insulated and is not compatible with hot liquids. Glass also tends to be heavy and delicate — if you’re prone to dropping things or want to carry one around with you daily, this probably isn’t the best option.

There are many lid types on the market, and depending on the water bottle you get, you may be able to buy several lids to match your needs. Three of the most common lids are flip-back lids, flip-up straw lids and screw-on lids — each has benefits, so it just depends what you’re using your water bottle for, according to Whitworth.

• Flip-back lids provide a tight seal to prevent leakage, says Whitworth. “They also have a higher volume flow and are perfect for when [you’re] taking a break from activities,” he says.
• Flip-up straw lids are a good choice if you use your water bottle on the go or when you’re working out. “You do not need to lift them above your head [and] they keep … the cold in,” says Whitworth.
• Screw-on lids allow the most water flow, according to Whitworth. They have a tight seal, which helps  avoid spillage, making them a good option if you need to keep your water bottle in your purse or backpack.

Frequently asked questions

There are several ways to clean a reusable water bottle . You can use a mix of mild dish soap and water or opt for simpler ingredients like white distilled vinegar and baking soda. You should only put a reusable water bottle in the dishwasher if the manufacturer’s instructions note that it’s dishwasher safe.

In January 2024, online reports surfaced indicating that Stanley products potentially contained lea d and may pose a health risk to consumers. In a statement to TODAY , Stanley clarified that, yes, the brand uses lead during the manufacturing process, but its bottles need to become damaged to expose the lead. (NBC Select independently reached out to Stanley for comment and were directed to the brand’s website about the potential issue.)

According to the brand’s site , the vacuum insulation technology Stanley uses involves a pellet, which includes some lead. The parts of its products that house the pellet are covered by stainless steel, and there is no lead on the surface of any product that comes into contact with consumers nor the contents of the product, according to Stanley. (In late February, some Stanley customers filed a potential class-action lawsuit against the brand after learning about the use of lead in its products, according to NBC News .)

According to Tierno, who has no affiliation with Stanley, reusable water bottles that do have lead in their construction are safe to drink from as long as the inside of the bottle or any part of it that touches water, does not actually come in contact with lead.

Yes. It is theoretically possible to develop lines on the face from continued contracted muscle movements beneath the skin around the mouth — such as drinking water from a straw — according to Dr. Caren Campbell , a San Francisco-based board certified dermatologist. “Anything that causes the repetitive crinkling of the overlying skin and causes breakdown of collagen and elastin will contribute to these lines,” she says. That said, there are other factors that also contribute to the breakdown of collagen in the skin and the formation of fine lines including smoking, UV rays and aging, according to Campbell.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Steve Whitworth director of product at cooler and outdoor gear manufacturer Rtic Outdoors . Whitworth helps develop products and campaigns for the brand.
• Dr. Caren Campbell is a board-certified dermatologist who runs her own dermatology practice. Campbell has over 12 years of experience.
• Dr. Philip Tierno is the director of microbiology and immunology and a professor of microbiology & pathology at NYU Langone Medical Center. Tierno is the author of several books on microbiology, including “ The Secret Life of Germs ” and “ First, Wear a Face Mask .”
• Josh York is the founder and CEO of in-home personal training service Gymguyz . 

Why trust NBC Select?

Morgan Greenwald is a former senior editor for NBC Select.   

Cory Fernandez is a commerce editor at NBC Select, where he covers food, kitchen, home care, cleaning and other lifestyle content. 

Greenwald and Fernandez consulted a product director, personal training expert and a microbiologist and spoke with NBC Select staff members about their favorite reusable water bottles. 

Catch up on NBC Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.

Morgan Greenwald is a senior editor for Select on NBC News.

Cory Fernandez is a commerce editor for Select on NBC News.

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Mackenzie Heritage Pink Dinos Water Bottle

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Ensure healthy hydration on the go with our Mackenzie water bottle, which keeps their favorite beverages hot or cold for up to six hours. Great for school, sports and travel, it’s crafted of BPA-free stainless steel with a spill-proof lid and a handy built-in straw. Personalize it with their name or initials for an extra-special touch.

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• Insulated bottles are made with a stainless steel interior and polypropylene cap. Finished in our exclusive prints and fun colors; no liner needed.
• Insulated bottles have a removable silicone straw to reach all the way to bottom so you won't miss that last drop.
• Push-button pop-up lid makes it easy to open and has a lock to prevent spills and leaks.
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Regular Insulated Bottle

• Overall: 3" diameter, 7.25" high
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• Fluid Capacity: 12 fluid ounces
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• When washing remove the lid, straw, and silicone spout to ensure they get cleaned thoroughly.
• Not for use with a microwave.
• Avoid liquids hotter than 120° F.
• Do not use with carbonated drinks as they can cause the drinking spout to forcefully eject.

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These Are the Travel Mugs Our Editors Carry in Their Backpacks

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

Leisurely enjoying your morning coffee or tea at home is a luxury of time many of us don’t have. Instead of downing it in a few gulps before you’re out the door or buying an overpriced cup from a coffee shop, start using a travel mug.

These durable, portable mugs are typically made of stainless steel, with built-in insulation so your last sip of coffee is as warm (or as cold) as the first. Their lids are designed to prevent splashing or spills, so you can throw the travel mug in a backpack or slide it in a car’s front console without worrying about a potential mess.

Many of the best travel mugs we recommend are ideal for camping or hiking in addition to everyday carrying. Most are dishwasher-safe or stack for easy storage, and won’t set you back more than $30. Considering they’re reusable and maintain your drink’s temperature, they’re worth considering even if your daily commute it from the kitchen to your home office. Whether you’re keeping warm by the campfire or sipping tea on the train, wrap your hands around one of these editor-tested travel mugs.

The Best Travel Mugs

• Best Overall: Yeti Rambler Stackable Mug
• Best Value: CamelBak Horizon Tumbler
• Best Leakproof Lid: Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle
• Best Coffee Maker Combo: Espro P0 Ultralight Single Serve French Coffee Press
• Best Exterior Insulation: Hydro Flask Insulated Travel Portable Coffee Tumbler

What to Consider

Most of the travel mugs on this list are made with stainless steel. Steel is great for long-term durability, holding up well to drops, scratches, and continuous washing. Flavors and odors don’t stick to steel either. Once you finish your drink and rinse out the mug, you won’t taste your last cup of tea lingering in the background for the rest of the day.

Some stainless steel mugs have a slight metallic taste to them. If you’ve got sensitive tastebuds, consider a mug with a ceramic coating on the inside. This replicates the neutral flavor profile of a classic mug you use for coffee at home.

Travel mugs are typically insulated to keep your drink hot or cold for the duration of your trip. Most have double-wall construction, with two layers of metal inside and out. The pocket of air in between prevents temperature transfer, so even if you’re drinking piping hot coffee, your hand doesn’t feel a thing.

Many of the travel mugs we recommend come in multiple sizes, usually from six ounce to 24 ounces or more to double as your water bottle. Despite large capacity, most are designed to fit into a car cupholder or the side pocket of a backpack.

Additional Features

Some travel mugs come with handles while others do not. Handles on a mug are great for holding them while on a walk or hike as well as for storage. Instead of packing your mug into your backpack where it takes up valuable storage space, clip it on by the handle. Travel mugs with handles typically don’t fit easily in a cupholder. This is a major drawback for commuters who want a coffee cup for their drive to work.

Travel mugs almost always come with lids, but these vary in quality. Some prevent splashes and major spills by simply covering the top of the mug. They press on and often have a thin rubber ring around the perimeter to help keep them on the mug, though they won’t be completely sealed. So if you drop your mug, liquid is bound to spill out.

Other travel mugs come with thicker, screw-on lids that completely seal your drink inside. These protect your drink from spilling when they are dropped, but are typically much larger than a press-on lid and are more tedious to clean.

How We Tested

Each travel mug we tested was evaluated based on their performance in every day situations from morning commutes to walking outdoors. We paid close attention to heat retention, drink flavor, splashes or spills with the lid on, and ease of cleaning. Each travel mug was dropped several times from standing height to ensure durability. For those with press-on lids, we also paid attention to how securely the lids stayed on during a drop.

For mugs we didn’t personally test out, we compared key specs such as size, material, and insulation. We also researched across multiple online publications and read through customer reviews.

1) Rambler Stackable Mug

This travel mug from Yeti impressed us with its durability, convenience, and practicality. The stainless steel construction holds up well against drops, and the double-wall insulation kept my coffee hot for hours.

The bottom of the mug is slightly thinner than the rest of the body. Because of this, the mug stacks perfectly into other Yeti mugs for easy storage when not in use.

The press-on lid isn’t completely leakproof, but it does come with a slider to cover the mouth hole when you aren’t drinking. While this won’t prevent a leak if you drop your mug, it certainly keep coffee from splashing out as you walk.

The slightly larger than average 14 ounce capacity was a small but noticeable detail for anyone who likes a full cup of joe, creamer, and sugar. The 12 ounce mugs require the slightest sacrifice while this Yeti gives you all the space you need.

2) Horizon Tumbler

Without the classic mug handle, this tumbler from CamelBak is built for the commute. While a handle is great for walking and hiking, this travel mug fits into your car cupholder without the cumbersome handle getting in the way.

The travel mug also has a silicone based which provides a solid base that keeps the mug steady when in motion. Like most of the travel mugs on this list, the CamelBak is make of stainless steel.

However, the steel is powder-coated so when you take a sip of your tea, you taste the tea, not the metallic lingering flavor of your cup.

3) Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottle

If you want a leakproof container for your coffee, this tumbler from Hydro Flask is your answer. The screw-on lid has a twisting top that seals the bottle closed when you aren’t sipping. Twist it open to grab a sip, twist it closed, and your bottle won’t leak even if it’s dropped on the ground.

Both the lid and body are dishwasher-safe, so don’t worry about scrubbing coffee stains out of the crevices and corners of the relatively tall bottle.

While it doesn’t have a handle, this travel mug comes with a carrying strap on the top of the lid. Combined with the leakproof lid, you can hook the bottle to the outside of your backpack filled to the brim and not lose a drop.

4) P0 Ultralight Single Serve French Coffee Press

Make your coffee fresh and take it to go with this portable French press from Espro. With double filter design, all the grit and sediment from your coffee grounds is kept at bay, so your fresh cup is as smooth as any you could make at home.

Unscrew the leakproof lid and you’ll have hot coffee to sip all day long. The French press feature also works well for tea. Simply swap out your coffee grounds for loose leaf tea, and the mechanism is just as effective.

Instead of carrying along a cup of drip coffee from my house, I get fresh pressed coffee that's smoother, and frankly, tastier than anything my regular machine can make. I love it so much that I sometimes use the Espro at home just for its double-filter press.

5) Insulated Travel Portable Coffee Tumbler

Another option from Hydro Flask, this travel mug gives you the the same sensation as your favorite mug at home. Instead of grasping your hands around the cold metallic exterior of many other travel mugs, the Hydro Flask has a soft to the touch coating.

While it won’t warm up your hands like a ceramic mug, it won’t cool them down, like other travel mugs. For all the cold mornings by the campgrounds, the last thing you want to do is wrap your hands around a frigid metal mug.

The travel mug also comes with a press-on lid with a slider for the mouth opening. It leaks if you drop it, but it keeps the coffee from splashing around as you walk.

6) Carter Everywhere Travel Mug

Coupled with a ceramic-coated interior to stave off any odors, tastes, or smells from the cup, this Carter mug is great for getting that home-mug experience even if you can't be at home. The wide opening also lets you brew coffee straight into the mug using a pour-over coffee maker or an Aeropress while camping or hiking.

The twist-locking lid of this reusable cup is leakproof to ensure no messes occur in transit and the double-wall insulation keeps your coffee hot for hours.

It doesn’t fit into a standard cupholder and the wide mouth may be hard to sip while driving or on the subway, but if you need something to transport coffee, this ensures it’s hot (and not all over your bag) when you arrive at your destination.

7) Stainless Mug

For heat retention that lasts all day, the travel mug from Zojirushi is built to handle it. The double-wall insulation keeps the heat, while the variable sizes mean the mug can double as a thermos for soup too.

The leakproof lid has a flip top that locks in place, keeping liquids secure when closed. The lid also dissambles into four different pieces, so you can better clean each part of it and prevent mold buildup.

The interior of the mug has a nonstick coating that prevents residue from caking up the corners of the bottle. All you need to clean it out is some soapy water and a dish brush.

8) Insulated Camp Mug

Made out of 90 percent recycled steel, this travel mug from Klean Kanteen offers the same insulation as other options on our list but with a much smaller environmental impact. The recently climate neutral company created the mug using post-consumer recycled steel, meaning it would have otherwise entered a landfill.

Beyond this, the mug comes with a unique design etched into the side. The mountains and forestry on the side of the mug add help the mug stand out among its otherwise neutral-colored contemporaries.

The press-on lid is perfect for reducing splashes, but the open mouth does leave something to be desired. While it minimizes coffee splashes, expect a few drops to slip out on a bumpy commute.

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Swig Travel Mug, 18oz, Stainless Steel, Insulated, Party Animal, Travel Cup with Lid and Handle, Dishwasher Safe, Copper Plated

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About this item.

• 18OZ TUMBLER WITH HANDLE AND LID keeps cold drinks cold for 9 hours and hot drinks hot for 3 hours with Swig Life's triple insulated, copper-plated, stainless steel cups. Travel coffee tumbler holds up to 18oz of your favorite beverages.
• CUP HOLDER FRIENDLY 18 oz tumbler fits most standard size cup holders. With a comfortable handle, this travel mug is easy to carry and perfect for use as an everyday insulated water bottle.
• HIGH QUALITY INSULATED CUP keeps your drinks at the perfect temperature all day long. The large opening allows ice to fit with ease, and the spill resistant, removable slider lid lets your choose how you want to sip.
• TRAVEL COFFEE TUMBLER WITH HANDLE comes with a large lid (compatible with Swig reusable straw sets) with a removable slider for an easy sipping experience. Features a built-in coaster base that prevents slips, drips, and scratches. Top rack dishwasher safe.
• VARIETY OF COLORS AND PRINTS to choose from makes the Swig Life range of cups, travel mugs, tumblers, and water bottles the best unique drinkware you'll find. We also offer a variety of bags, coolers, straws, straw toppers, and other water bottle accessories to style your Swig.

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Product Description

Travel Mug (18oz)

Thanks to our triple insulation technology, our 18oz travel coffee mug with handle and lid keeps drinks cold 9+ hours and hot 3+ hours. The cup holder friendly travel mug makes it the ideal travel companion, to and from the classroom, the conference room or even just your living room!

All of our prints are hand applied therefore slight variations will occur.

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Warranty & support, looking for specific info, compare with similar items, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the quality and size of the coffee mug. They say it's a high quality item that fits perfectly in their cup holder. Customers are also impressed with the vibrant colors and the fact that it comes in many different designs. However, some customers have reported issues with the lid. They feel that it leaves a lot to be desired and does not stay on the cup. Customers also differ on ease of cleaning, and leakage.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the warmth of the cup. They mention it lives on their desk daily and keeps their coffee hot and their drinks cool for a long time.

"...It has a nice fitting lid and keeps my coffee warm enough to enjoy to the last drop. It is a perfect size and comes in many colors and designs...." Read more

"...No sliding or scratching on furniture. It keeps my coffee hot . I love the color." Read more

"Perfect size, beautiful vibrant colors, keeps my ice tea cold for way longer than advertised. I still have ice in my cup after 24 hrs...." Read more

"...I have used it for several months and love it. The insulation keeps beverage warm for long periods of time, and it is lighter weight than my bigger..." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the cup. They say it's pretty, has beautiful vibrant colors, and is very nice. They also mention that it comes in many colors and designs and is comfortable in their girl hands.

"...It is a perfect size and comes in many colors and designs . I opted for a solid light blue...." Read more

"...No sliding or scratching on furniture. It keeps my coffee hot. I love the color ." Read more

"Perfect size, beautiful vibrant colors , keeps my ice tea cold for way longer than advertised. I still have ice in my cup after 24 hrs...." Read more

"...But this cup caught my eye because it was attractive and because of the handle...." Read more

Customers like the quality of the cup. For example, they mention it's a high quality item, durable, and spill proof. Some say that the cup is perfect for work and the handle makes it easy to carry. That said, most are happy with the quality and durability of the product.

"This cup is 16 oz. Good start for the day . I like the top. It's so easy to use. The handle is a good addition...." Read more

"...It's easy to clean, too. The cup is sturdy and exactly what I was looking for! Highly recommend this brand!" Read more

" This cup is fantastic . I love that it feels secure in my hand and keeps my coffee warm. The pattern is gorgeous...." Read more

"...The top of the lid does not come apart for cleaning. Liquid gets caught...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the cup. For example, they mention it's the perfect size, fits perfectly in their cup holder, has a nice sized handle, and does a good job of keeping their drink warm. Some say that it fits in their purse and in their car's cup holders.

"...It is not bulky and heavy like ceramic mug I tried. It has a nice fitting lid and keeps my coffee warm enough to enjoy to the last drop...." Read more

" Perfect size , beautiful vibrant colors, keeps my ice tea cold for way longer than advertised. I still have ice in my cup after 24 hrs...." Read more

"...It fits in my purse when I take it to the car and fits in my cup holder if I turn the handle to the center where there is room for handles...." Read more

"...The lid fits snugly and does not drip whatsoever. The handle is high enough on the cup that it allows it to sit nicely in my 2024 Subaru cupholder...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the ease of cleaning. Some mention it's very easy to clean via the dishwasher, and it'll keep beverages hot. However, others say that it't easy to remove for cleaning, and the lid is really hard to clean.

"This cup is 16 oz. Good start for the day. I like the top. It's so easy to use . The handle is a good addition...." Read more

"...it had not been a clear lid so I couldn't see that it's impossible to get completely clean because now when I drink out if it I just think about it..." Read more

"...It's easy to clean , too. The cup is sturdy and exactly what I was looking for! Highly recommend this brand!" Read more

"But cover is hard to clean inside mouth part" Read more

Customers are mixed about the leakage of the cup. Some mention that it's cute, keeps drinks hot, and doesn't leak. The lid fits snugly and does not drip whatsoever. However, some say that the lid is not really leak-proof and the drink seal slide has a couple of problems.

"The mug is very cute, keeps drinks hot, and doesn't leak ...." Read more

"...for the drink it's really hard to clean properly, and it doesn't keep leaks from happening ...." Read more

"...The lid fits snugly and does not drip whatsoever . The handle is high enough on the cup that it allows it to sit nicely in my 2024 Subaru cupholder...." Read more

"...amount without being too large, had a comfortable handle, had a leak-proof lid and looked cute. This Swig mug ended up being PERFECT for me...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the lid of the coffee cup. They mention that it leaves a lot to be desired, it's interesting, and that it should be more functional. Some say that the opening on the lid should be bigger, and it tends to have buildup between the lid and the little thingy to slide. Some customers also mention that the lid is broken.

"The mug is very cute, keeps drinks hot, and doesn't leak. The lid is clear and very hard to clean, I scrubbed it for 15 minutes with a tiny wire..." Read more

"...It’s disappointing that the lid is so darn tight . It does an OK job keeping my water cool but I have had other brands that do a much better job." Read more

"This cup is fantastic. I love that it feels secure in my hand and keeps my coffee warm. The pattern is gorgeous...." Read more

"Would have given 5-stars, except the lid is broken ." Read more

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