Staying hydrated is essential no matter where your adventures take you, and choosing the right hiking water bottle can make all the difference. We’ve worked hard for you, testing various options, from casual trail walks to challenging multi-day treks in rugged terrains. Below, we’ve rounded up the best hiking water bottles for 2024, including durable plastic designs, lightweight collapsible bottles ideal for backpacking, and high-quality insulated options that keep your drinks at the perfect temperature. Check out our comparison table and buying guide after the list for more details.
How I Tested the Best Hiking Water Bottles

To find the best hiking water bottles, I took each one out on the trail to see how it performed in real-world conditions. If keeping your water cold is a priority, you might want to explore the best-insulated water bottles, though I’d only recommend them for shorter day hikes due to their weight. For backpacking, lightweight and durable bottles are the way to go, even if it means skipping the icy cold water in the backcountry. During my hikes, I tested how easy each bottle was to use, how well it held up against rough handling, and how convenient it was to carry on different types of trails.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hiking Water Bottle
Picking the perfect hiking water bottle involves more than choosing a style you like. Here are the key factors to keep in mind to ensure it meets your needs on the trail:
- Material
The bottle’s material significantly affects its durability, weight, and insulation. Stainless steel bottles are durable and excellent for temperature control, while plastic options are lightweight and affordable. Silicone collapsible bottles are great for saving space in your pack. - Capacity
Think about how much water you’ll need for your hike. Short-day hikes may only require a smaller 16-32 oz bottle, while longer treks or hot-weather hikes may call for a larger capacity bottle, like 1 liter or more. - Weight
Every ounce matters when you’re carrying gear on a hike. Lightweight bottles are ideal for long hikes or backpacking trips, but be sure they’re sturdy enough to withstand rough conditions. - Insulation
Insulated bottles are a great option to keep your water cold or hot. However, they tend to be heavier, making them better suited for shorter hikes than multi-day treks. - Durability
Hiking can be challenging on your gear, so choose a bottle that can handle drops and bumps. Stainless steel and high-quality plastic bottles are excellent for durability. - Mouth Opening
The size of the opening affects how easy it is to drink, refill, or add ice. Wide-mouth bottles are convenient for cleaning and adding ice cubes, while narrow-mouth designs reduce spills. - Ease of Carrying
Look for bottles with built-in handles, carabiner loops, or compatibility with backpack bottle holders to make carrying more convenient. - Eco-Friendliness
Many hikers prefer reusable bottles made from sustainable or BPA-free materials to reduce their environmental impact.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a hiking water bottle that fits your needs and enhances your outdoor adventures.
Different Types of Hiking Water Bottles

Soft Water Bottles
Best for ultralight backpackers and long-distance hikers, soft water bottles (such as Platypus SoftBottles) are capable of being squashed and stored away when not in use. They are easy and help in saving space but some users consider them weak.
Hard Plastic Bottles
Hard plastic bottles like the Nalgene Wide Mouth are a classic choice for hikers. They are cheap, long-lasting, and available in many sizes. Nevertheless, they do not provide any insulation meaning that the coded potable will not be cool or warm for long.
Stainless Steel Bottles
Stainless steel bottles such as Hydro Flask or Klean Kanteen are preferred if one prefers insulated bottles. They are durable and can hold the temperature of the liquids for hours but they are quite heavy to carry around.
Flask-Style Water Bottles
Flask-style bottles, often designed for runners or those needing quick access to water, are compact and often feature a straw or squeeze mechanism. Brands like CamelBak make flask-style bottles with hydration tubes, ideal for fast-paced hikers.
Top Hiking Water Bottle Recommendations
1. Hydro Flask Wide Mouth with Straw

Reasons to Buy
- Excellent insulation
- Convenient carry handle
- Flip-up straw for easy sipping
- Durable stainless steel construction
Reasons to Avoid
- Limited capacity for heavy drinkers
- Premium price
- Plastic straw material
Specifications
Measured Empty Weight | 309 g | 10.9 oz |
Body Material | 18/8 Stainless steel |
Volume | 624 g | 22 oz |
Bottle Weight/Fluid Capacity Ratio | 0.5 oz/oz |
Mouth Diameter | 5.08 cm | 2 in |
Pros:
- Excellent insulation: Keeps beverages hot or cold for extended periods.
- Durable stainless steel: Built to withstand rugged outdoor use.
- Multiple size options: Choose between 21 oz and 32 oz based on your needs.
Cons:
- Heavy: Can be too bulky for ultralight packers.
- Pricey: Higher cost compared to non-insulated alternatives.
The Hydro Flask Wide Mouth with Straw stands out as one of the top everyday water bottles, excelling in functionality and design. During testing, we found it incredibly versatile for daily use, from office commutes to workouts at the gym. Its superior insulation kept drinks refreshingly cold, even in warmer conditions. One of our testers remarked that the flip-up straw cap and wide mouth design made it effortless to fill, clean, and sip on the go.
This bottle’s sturdy construction, paired with a comfortable handle, makes it easy to carry, whether running errands or heading out for a short hike. The thoughtful design and reliable performance make it a great companion for everyday hydration needs.
That said, more than its 24 oz capacity may be needed for those who consume a lot of water or plan extended outdoor trips. For greater capacity, the 32 oz version is a solid alternative, although it might only fit standard car cup holders if you opt for the travel-friendly version with a narrower base.
Another downside is the plastic straw, which slightly affected the taste when tested with hot water. If avoiding plastic is a priority, consider alternatives like the Klean Kanteen TKWide Recycled Insulated, which offers a metal straw option and excels in insulation. For those seeking value, the iron flask insulation delivers comparable performance at a significantly lower cost and is lighter to carry.
While the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth with Straw may not suit every need, it’s hard to beat for its everyday convenience, robust insulation, and stylish design.

2. Best Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle

Reasons to Buy
- Extremely durable and impact-resistant
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Generous capacity for long hikes
- BPA-free and eco-friendly material
Reasons to Avoid
Wide mouth may cause spills while drinking on the go
Not insulated for temperature control
Specifications
Measured Empty Weight | 178 g | 6.3 oz |
Body Material | BPA-free Tritan plastic |
Volume | 1 liter | 32 oz |
Mouth Diameter | 6.3 cm | 2.48 in |
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight: Ideal for hikers prioritizing a light pack.
- Durable and impact-resistant: Tough enough for rugged outdoor use.
- Affordable: Budget-friendly compared to insulated bottles.
Cons:
- No insulation: Doesn’t keep drinks hot or cold for long periods.
- Wide mouth may cause spills: Can be tricky to drink from while on the move.

The Nalgene Wide Mouth Bottle is a popular choice among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts due to its durability, lightweight design, and generous capacity. Made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, it is virtually indestructible and resistant to impacts, making it ideal for rough outdoor conditions. With a 1-liter capacity, the bottle offers ample hydration for long hikes, and its wide mouth makes it easy to add ice cubes and clean. While it’s a great option for carrying water on the go, the wide mouth can be tricky for drinking while moving, as it may cause spills. Additionally, unlike insulated bottles, the Nalgene Wide Mouth doesn’t keep your water cold or hot for extended periods. However, its affordability and eco-friendly, reusable design make it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, durable water bottle for everyday adventures.
3. Best for Multiple Beverages: CamelBak MultiBev

Reasons to Buy
- Two-in-one design: 22-ounce bottle and 16-ounce cup.
- Sweatproof: Keeps hands and bag dry.
- Insulation: Cold for 24 hours, hot for 16.
- Convenient lid: Easy to store and carry.
- Dishwasher safe: Simple to clean.
- Shareable: Separate cup for sharing.
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy: Weighs 1 lb, 7 oz.
- Not for backpacking: Too bulky for long trips.
Pros
- Versatile two-in-one design
- Sweatproof and leak-resistant
- Convenient roll-and-fold lid
Cons
- Relatively heavy for everyday use
- Pricey for a single bottle
Specifications
Capacity | 22-ounce bottle, 16-ounce cup or 17-ounce bottle, 12-ounce cup |
Insulation | Double-wall vacuum insulated |
Dishwasher Safe | Yes |
Measured Weight | 1 lb, 7 oz |

The CamelBak MultiBev is a game-changer for those who like versatility on the go. This innovative design combines a water bottle and a screw-off tumbler in one handy package. The 22-ounce bottle ensures your water stays cold for up to 24 hours, while the 16-ounce cup or bottle keeps beverages hot for up to 16 hours. Perfect for coffee in the morning, water during the day, and even a little wine to unwind in the evening.
What makes the MultiBev stand out is the practicality no need for extra containers when you can easily switch between drinks. The bottle’s matte finish is sweatproof, preventing condensation from pooling, while the silicone base keeps it steady and secure. All parts of the MultiBev are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
The CamelBak MultiBev offers excellent value with its dual functionality, combining both a 16-ounce tumbler and a 22-ounce bottle. While it’s perfect for day hikes and daily use, its weight may not be the best fit for long backpacking trips where lighter gear is preferred. However, if you enjoy having multiple beverage options on hand, the CamelBak MultiBev is a solid choice for versatility and convenience.
This bottle is especially useful for hikers looking for a lid that completely seals the bottle yet is easy to use with just one hand. The magnetic lid ensures no free flow or spilling occurs while drinking without separating the entire lid from the bottle.
4. Platypus SoftBottle Water Bottle

Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-lightweight and compact
- Easily rolls up for space-saving storage
- Affordable price
- Ideal for weight-conscious backpackers and thru-hikers
Reasons to Avoid
- Lacks rigidity, making it harder to drink from when not full
- Difficult to fit in cup holders or backpack side pockets
- Less durable than rigid bottles
Specifications
Mouth Diameter | 4.5 cm | 1.77 in |
Measured Empty Weight | 37 g | 1.3 oz |
Body Material | BPA-free plastic |
Volume | 2 liters | 68 oz |
Pros:
- Lightweight (1.3 oz)
- Compact & rolls up for easy storage
- Affordable
- Durable for a soft bottle
Cons:
- Lacks rigidity, hard to drink from when partially full
- Doesn’t fit in most cup holders
- Not ideal for daily use
- Less durable than hard bottles

The Platypus SoftBottle Water Bottle is an excellent choice for minimalist hikers and backpackers who prioritize weight and packability. This 2-liter soft-sided bottle weighs an astonishingly light 1.3 ounces, making it a favorite among thru-hikers who need to minimize weight over long distances. Its compressible design allows it to roll up, making it easy to stow away in tight spaces or on the go.
Despite its lightweight build, the Platypus bottle holds up well over time. Our testers found that it withstood multiple camping and backpacking trips with few issues, proving its durability.
However, there are some trade-offs to consider. The flexible design doesn’t hold its shape, making it tricky to pour water or drink from unless the bottle is full. Additionally, it’s harder to fit into cup holders or side pockets of backpacks, making it less convenient for casual, everyday use.
If you’re looking for an incredibly lightweight, space-saving option for longer hikes or camping, the Platypus SoftBottle is an excellent choice. For those who prefer a similar design but need a smaller volume, Platypus also offers a 1-liter version that is just as compact and convenient.
5. Best Filtered: LifeStraw Peak Series

Reasons to Buy:
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Lightweight at just 3.9 oz
- Built-in filter for safe drinking from natural sources
- Durable design that resists dirt and sand
- Convenient squeeze bottle with a dust cap for clean sipping
Reasons to Avoid:
- Filter needs replacement after 2,000 liters
- Doesn’t stand up on its own
- Limited capacity (650 ml – 1 liter)
- Not ideal for long trips needing more water storage
Pros
- Collapsible and compact
- Ultra-lightweight for easy portability
- Built-in filter for on-the-go water purification
Cons
- Requires filter replacement after 2,000 liters
- Does not stand upright
Specifications
Capacity | 650 milliliters (22 oz), 1 liter (34 oz) |
Weight | 3.9 ounces (110 g) |
Material | BPA-free TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) |
Filter Type | Hollow-fiber membrane microfilter |
Collapsible Design | Compact and space-saving when empty |

The LifeStraw Peak Series is an excellent choice for a compact, lightweight water bottle with a built-in filtration system. This bottle is perfect for adventures where access to clean water might be scarce, such as trail runs or desert hikes. Instead of carrying an extra filter or risk contaminating your clean bottle, the LifeStraw Peak Series allows you to drink directly from streams, lakes, or other natural water sources, as it filters water as you drink.
While the bottle is not large enough for multi-day backpacking trips, it’s ideal for shorter excursions where you’ll be near water sources. Its collapsible design makes it easy to pack down when not in use, making it a space-saver in your gear.
The LifeStraw Peak Series is also highly durable, resisting dirt and sand build-up. The attached dust cap helps keep the nozzle clean. The included attachment loop is handy for securing the filter cap, preventing it from touching the ground or dirty water. Plus, a syringe for backflushing is included to maintain the filter’s performance, ensuring you can keep it clean and functioning properly.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, filtered water bottle for your next adventure, the LifeStraw Peak Series is an excellent option for light travel where access to fresh water is frequent.
Conclusion
Choosing the best hiking water bottle depends on your individual needs, whether it’s weight, insulation, or durability. For day hikers, a lightweight, plastic bottle like the Nalgene is ideal. Long-distance backpackers may prefer a collapsible option like the Platypus SoftBottle, while those in extreme climates might opt for a well-insulated Hydro Flask or Thermos Flask. Whatever your preference, staying hydrated on the trail is essential for enjoying your hike and staying healthy.
FAQs
What type of water bottle is best for hiking?
The best water bottle for hiking depends on your needs. Insulated stainless steel bottles are ideal for keeping drinks cold or hot, but they’re heavier. Lightweight plastic bottles like Nalgene are affordable and durable, perfect for long hikes. Collapsible bottles are great for saving space and reducing weight, while hydration reservoirs offer hands-free convenience for fast-paced trails. Choose based on trail length, temperature, and weight preference.
Why do hikers use Nalgene bottles?
Hikers use Nalgene bottles because they are lightweight, tough, and can handle rough outdoor use. The wide mouth makes them easy to refill and clean, and they don’t leak. Nalgene bottles work well with both hot and cold drinks and are BPA-free and reusable, making them safe and eco-friendly.
Are collapsible water bottles good for hiking?
Yes, collapsible water bottles are great for hiking, especially if you prioritize saving space and reducing weight. They are lightweight, easy to pack when empty, and perfect for short hikes or situations where water sources are available for refilling. However, they may not be as durable or insulated as stainless steel or hard plastic bottles, so they’re better suited for less rugged trails.
What are the disadvantages of LifeStraw?
Limited Use: It only filters water as you drink, so you can’t store clean water for later.
No Chemical Removal: It doesn’t remove chemicals, heavy metals, or salt from water.
Short Lifespan: It can only filter up to a certain amount of water (around 1,000 gallons), then needs replacement.
Not for Groups: It’s designed for individual use, making it less practical for group trips.
No Versatility: You can’t use it for cooking or other activities unless you transfer water after filtering.
It’s great for emergencies or hiking but not ideal for all situations
How much water should I carry for a 20-mile hike?
For a 20-mile hike, you should aim to carry about 2 to 3 liters of water. The exact amount depends on factors like the weather, your pace, and your body’s needs. On hot days, you might need more to stay hydrated, while cooler days may require less. It’s also a good idea to bring extra water or know where you can refill along the trail. Stay hydrated, but avoid carrying too much weight.