Water containers that don't fold down take up the same space whether they're full or empty. That's wasted room in your vehicle or pack. Collapsible containers fold flat when empty, freeing up space for other gear.
Good collapsible containers hold their shape when full, include spigots for easy pouring without lifting, and use food-grade BPA-free materials that don't affect water taste. Look for capacities between 2.6 and 20 liters depending on your group size and trip length. Handles matter for carrying full containers.
1. Gsi Outdoors Collapsible Water Cube
The GSI cube holds 20 liters, which is enough for a group or multi-day solo trip. Collapsible design folds down to about 2.5 inches thick. At 0.63 pounds, it's light enough to pack empty without noticing. Transparent material lets you see water levels at a glance.
No built-in spigot means you pour from the opening or use a separate tap. Wide opening makes filling easy at camp spigots or streams.
Pros:
- 20-liter capacity for groups
- Lightweight at 0.63 pounds
- Transparent shows water level
- Folds flat when empty
Cons:
- No built-in spigot
- Thin material needs careful handling
- Not insulated
2. Cedilis 2 Pack 5.3 Gallon Collapsible Water Container
Two 5.3-gallon containers give you flexibility. Use one for drinking water, one for washing. Spigots make dispensing easy without tipping the containers. Food-safe BPA-free material doesn't affect taste. Clear construction shows water levels.
At 1.32 pounds for the pair, these are reasonable weight. Foldable design packs flat.
Pros:
- Two containers for flexibility
- Spigots for easy dispensing
- Food-safe BPA-free materials
- Clear shows water levels
Cons:
- 5.3 gallons may be small for large groups
- Spigot durability varies with use
- Material needs careful handling
3. Waterstoragecube Bpa-free Collapsible Water Container
Another 5.3-gallon two-pack option. Spigots control water flow well. BPA-free food-grade material is safe for drinking water. Foldable design collapses when empty. At 0.325 pounds per container, these are very light.
Clear material monitors water levels. Wide opening fills easily.
Pros:
- BPA-free food-grade safe
- Spigots for controlled dispensing
- Very lightweight at 0.325 pounds each
- Foldable saves space
Cons:
- Careful handling needed
- Spigot needs cleaning
- Not insulated
4. Reliance Products Fold-a-carrier
Reliance makes proven outdoor gear. The Fold-A-Carrier holds 5 gallons and folds flat when empty. At 0.55 pounds, it's one of the lightest options. Sturdy handle makes carrying easier. White color is neutral.
No spigot means you pour from the opening. Durable construction from a trusted brand.
Pros:
- Folds flat for storage
- Lightweight at 0.55 pounds
- Sturdy handle for carrying
- Reliance quality brand
Cons:
- No spigot for easy pouring
- Not insulated
- Manual filling and pouring
5. Gowithwind Collapsible Water Container Jug With Spigot
Two 5.3-gallon containers with spigots. BPA-free material is safe for drinking water. Foldable design saves space when empty. At 0.64 pounds total, the pair is lightweight. Spigots dispense water without heavy lifting.
Durable build handles outdoor use. Compact dimensions pack easily.
Pros:
- Two containers with spigots
- BPA-free safe materials
- Lightweight at 0.64 pounds total
- Foldable for storage
Cons:
- Spigots need careful handling
- Folding takes practice
- Not insulated
6. Itraz Collapsible Water Container With Spigot
Another two-pack option with 5.3-gallon capacity each. Spigots make dispensing easy. BPA-free materials ensure safe drinking water. Transparent body shows water levels. Foldable design packs flat. At 1.45 pounds for the pair, weight is reasonable.
Durable materials withstand camping use. Storage bag protects during transport.
Pros:
- Two containers with spigots
- BPA-free safe for drinking
- Transparent monitors levels
- Foldable saves space
Cons:
- Cleaning prevents odor buildup
- Spigot durability varies
- Not insulated
7. Umetass Collapsible Water Container With Spigot
Smaller 2.6-gallon containers work well for solo camping or short trips. Spigots dispense water easily. Clear material monitors water levels. At 0.875 pounds for the pair, these are very light. Foldable design collapses when empty.
Compact size fits in tight spaces. Good for day hikes or weekend trips. While you're at it, take a look at our portable water filter. While you're at it, take a look at our collapsible sink for dishwashing. While you're at it, take a look at our insulated water bottle.
Pros:
- Compact 2.6-gallon size
- Spigots for easy dispensing
- Very lightweight
- Foldable saves space
Cons:
- Small capacity needs refills
- Material can puncture
How to Pick the Right One
- For large groups: GSI 20-liter cube provides maximum capacity.
- For weekend trips: 5.3-gallon two-packs like Cedilis or Gowithwind work well.
- For solo camping: UMETASS 2.6-gallon containers are sufficient.
- For easy dispensing: Any model with spigots eliminates heavy lifting.
- For weight savings: Reliance 0.55 pounds or WaterStorageCube 0.325 pounds.
- For emergency kits: Two-pack options provide backup if one fails.
Bottom Line
Collapsible water containers save space when empty and provide hydration when full. For most campers, a 5.3-gallon two-pack like Cedilis or Gowithwind offers the best balance of capacity and portability. If you're camping with a group, the GSI 20-liter cube holds more. Solo hikers should look at the UMETASS 2.6-gallon option.
