There is a plethora of water storage and purification products on the market. It can be overwhelming and time-consuming to sift through and research them all and then decide what you really need. While I don’t claim to be a water expert, I have done a bunch of research and I’ve used a lot of products in order to figure out what is right for our family. I’d like to share what I’ve learned with you here.
I like to “layer” my emergency water supplies. This means two things: (1) I like to have stored water AND a means to purify water, and (2) In both cases, I like to have something I can use in my home and something I can use on the go.
Emergency Water Products For Storing Water at Home Reviewed
#1: Supertankers
HUGE gravity-fed water tanks are available in various sizes: 130 gallons, 160 gallons, 250 gallons, and even up to 320+ gallons.
Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
#2: Large Barrels
Large barrels are available in sizes from 15 gallons up to 55 gallons. The 55-gallon barrels are the best deal per gallon. You can occasionally find them on craigslist or e-bay for amazing prices. If you live in Utah, Macey’s grocery store is the best place to purchase these at around $40-$50 each. Online, I’ve found $60-$70 to be a good price.
With these barrels, you will need a pump or at least a simple siphon to get the water out. You will also need a bung wrench to close and open it.
– Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
Emergency Water Products for Storing Water at Home or For Evacuation Reviewed
#1: 3-5 gallon jugs
These are typically available in white, somewhat opaque plastic as well as completely opaque blue plastic. There are also spigots available so you can use them at a sink. We use these when camping. If you go with the less expensive/opaque white ones, be sure to store them away from light.
Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
#2: Water Boxes
Water boxes include 5 gallons of mylar bags that are filled with water and then placed inside a stackable box.
Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
#3: WaterBricks
Water bricks are 3.5-gallon interlocking containers that can be used for food or water and are very popular in the “prepping” crowd. Spigots are available.
Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
#4: Soda/Juice Bottles
If you buy 2-liter soda or non-refrigerated juice (such as apple juice), you can use those containers to store water.
Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
#5: Store-bought water bottles
These are available in small kids (8 oz) sizes, the typical 16.9 oz bottle, or even large bottles.
Pros |
Cons: |
|
|
More products (filters). I will add them as I talk about them during the course this month.