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Staying hydrated is incredibly important for all of us. But what if you don’t want to drink water from one of those nasty single-use plastic bottles? Well, the answer is getting a quality reusable water bottle. But what is the absolute best water bottle out there?
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And this is what our list of top picks in each category looks like, based on versatility, perceived quality, user ratings, design and price:
- Hydro Flask Water Bottle Wide Mouth – Best stainless steel water bottle (vacuum insulated)
- No products found. Bottle” /] – Best outdoor water bottle with a built-in filter
- Purifyou Premium Glass Water Bottle – Best glass water bottle
- Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle – Best plastic water bottle
- Nomader BPA Free Collapsible Sports Water Bottle – Best collapsible water bottle
- Thermos Funtainer 12 Ounce Bottle – Best water bottle for kids
Now that you know which bottles are the top of the top in their respective category, it’s time to take a closer look at each, as well as other quality water bottles!
The Top 10 Best Water Bottles In 2022!
So, we did our due diligence and research about the most optimal water bottles this year.
And as a result, we singled out these 10 bottles that we totally recommend and think you should definitely check them out if you’re in for a quality water bottle that won’t break your bank!
Note that this list includes different types of water bottles, from stainless steel ones to glass and even collapsable ones!
1. Hydro Flask Water Bottle, Stainless Steel & Vacuum Insulated
[Best insulated stainless steel bottle]
Capacity: 18 oz, 32 oz, 40 oz or 64 oz
Weight (empty): 11.6 oz, 15.5 oz, 17.5 oz and 32.1 oz
Mouth (opening): 2.28 inches
Price: $$
The vacuum insulated Hydro Flask water bottle totally blows the competition out of the water and it’s easy to see why just by looking at the stellar user ratings this thermos has.
It comes with an impeccable leakproof design, superb material quality and heaps of durability.
This thermos is made of 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel that translates into a robust design that’s meant to last.
However, the quality stainless steel used also means that you’re getting a purer taste without any funny flavors making their way into your drink.
You’ll also benefit from the TempShield technology that utilizes a double-wall, vacuum-insulated interior to keep an optimal temperature longer.
In fact, it should keep your drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold ones for up to 24 hours.
There’s also a neat powder coat used on the outside of the bottle for a sweatless and improved grip.
Pros:
- Quality leakproof design
- No funny/unpleasant taste and flavor
- Keeps beverages hot/cold for many hours
- Highly versatile
Cons:
- Not dishwasher safe
- Pricey
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2. GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle With Purifier Cartridge
[Best outdoor water bottle with a filter]
Capacity: 16 oz
Weight (empty): 10.9 oz
Mouth (opening): 2.80 inches
Price: $$$
If you’re into hiking, backpacking, prepping or anything to do with outdoors and survival, then the GRAYL bottle with a filter is the one to go for!
All that it takes to make dirty water drinkable is to fill the bottle and then press using the purifier cartridge and in 15 secs you’ll have 16-oz of clean and safe to drink water!
Perhaps the most spectacular feature of the 3-stage filtering system in this GRAYL bottle is the fact that it eliminates over 99% of various pathogens such as:
- Viruses like Rotavirus and Hepatitis A
- Bacteria like Cholera and E. Coli
- Protozoan cysts like Cryptosporidium and Giardia
But what’s even more spectacular – this water bottle can also remove silt, sediment, various chemicals like chlorine and even harmful heavy metals such as arsenic and lead.
All of this results in clean, clear, safe and fresh water without any aftertaste or unpleasant odors.
Last but not least, each replaceable purifier cartridge should last approximately 40 gallons (150 liters) that translates to having roughly 2 to 3 months worth of drinkable water.
Pros:
- Perfect for hiking, prepping, backpacking, camping etc.
- Removes all kinds of bacteria, viruses and other contaminants
- Comes with a whopping 10-year warranty
- Takes only 15 seconds to purify 16 oz of water
Cons:
- You’ll have to replace the filter cartridge more frequently if you fill it with murky water
- Small water capacity
3. Contigo AUTOSEAL Chill Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Capacity: 24 oz
Weight (empty): 8.2 oz
Mouth (opening): 2.00 inches
Price: $
This Contigo Chill stainless steel water bottle (that’s meant for cold water only) simply screams quality and the related user ratings prove it.
It relies on a clever Thermalock vacuum insulation system that will supposedly keep cold liquids cold for up to 28 hours!
Another great thing about this bottle is the brilliant spill-proof design that includes an Autoseal lid that closes after each sip to eliminate those super uncool spills that we all hate.
Besides, the patented Autoseal lid technology makes for effortless one-handed drinking as all that you have to do is press the button to start drinking – releasing it will seal the lid immediately.
You’re also getting a protective spout cover that’s meant to shield you from any germs and dirt that may latch onto the exterior of your bottle from just about anywhere.
The lid is also top-rack dishwasher safe, although you’ll have to clean the body manually i.e. with your hands.
Top-rack dishwasher safe lid; hand-wash body
Pros:
- Ideal for one-handed drinking
- Comes with a protective spout
- Superb Autoseal spill-proof technology
- Great value for money
Cons:
- The mouthpiece is hard to clean
- Not for hot drinks
4. Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle
Capacity: 16 oz or 32 oz
Weight (empty): 3.2 oz and 6.25 oz
Mouth (opening): 2.50 inches
Price: $$
Nalgene’s Tritan wide mouth bottle is one of the best sellers when it comes to reusable water bottles with superb ratings, especially in terms of durability, ease of use and leak-proof characteristics.
This bottle is manufactured in accordance with USFDA’s requirements and it’s made of Eastman Tritan co-polyester, BPA-free plastic.
And while there are boatloads of different colors to choose from, it’s good to know that Nalgene uses only FDA-compliant colors.
Also, the lightweight Nelgene Tritan bottles are quite versatile as you can fill them with cold and hot drinks rangings from -40° F to 212° F (boiling point).
There’s also a handy loop-top design that means you won’t have to worry about finding the lid, while the markings on the bottle (oz and ml) make this bottle useful for measuring the water.
Lastly, this product is apparently impact resistant and dishwasher safe.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Made of quality, BPA-free plastic
- Has a loop-top lid
- Can be put in a dishwasher
Cons:
- Not good at retaining heat/cold
- Dim glow on the glow-in-the-dark version
5. YETI Rambler 18 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Bottle
Capacity: 18 oz
Weight (empty): 16.3 oz
Mouth (opening): 2.50 inches
Price: $$
YETI’s Rambler series water bottles have a superb reputation as they’re known for their incredibly durable, leak-proof and sturdy build quality.
It relies on a tough 18/8 stainless steel frame with an insulated 3-finger TripleHaul cap that adds an extra layer of leakproofness.
Speaking of which, the double-wall vacuum insulation should be able to keep your drink hot or cold for a while.
And apart from being quite durable, the design of this bottle also utilizes a No Sweat design for an improved grip.
Not only is this YETI Rambler bottle easy to hold, but it’s also quite easy to clean as well.
That’s because it’s dishwasher safe, making cleaning it as easy and effortless as it gets.
Pros:
- Super durable
- Double-wall vacuum insulated
- Dishwasher-friendly
- Quite decently proceed
Cons:
- Pretty heavy for an 18-oz bottle
- Lacks accessories
6. Gatorade Squeeze Bottle
[Best gym, fitness and sports water bottle]
Capacity: 28 oz or 32 oz
Weight (empty): 2.4 oz
Mouth (opening): 2.0 inches (without the cap)
Price: $
Gatorade needs no introduction and neither does its highly-successful squeeze water bottle that’s designed to be as sports-friendly as possible.
First and foremost, this is one of the cheapest reusable water bottles that you’ll ever stumble upon, although it comes from a reputable brand, which is good news.
Now, this bottle comes with a hands-free pressure-release dispenser tip and a high-flow valve that’s meant to eliminate any liquid spillage.
Other than that, this bottle is made of BPA-free plastic and sports (see what I did there?) an easy-grip design for effortless use.
Also, squeezing this bottle is very pliable, although you can always opt to remove the lid and drink straight from the adequately wide 2-inch opening.
On top of that, you’re also getting a translucent fluid-level indicator, while the bottle itself is dishwasher safe as you can place it on the top rack.
Pros:
- Ideal for various sports and fitness activities
- Dirt cheap
- Super light
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- No temperature insulation
- Not ideal for hiking and backpacking
7. Nomader BPA Free Collapsible Sports Water Bottle, 22 oz
Capacity: 22 oz
Weight (empty): 7.2 oz
Mouth (opening): 1.9 inches (without the cap)
Price: $$
If you’d like to maximize the capacity of your backpack and make your life easier while hiking, the portable and collapsible Nomader water bottle is what you’re looking for.
This robust, yet comfortable bottle can be attached to your backpack, rolled up to take up less space and you can even loop it around your wrist for added convenience.
It’s incredibly portable, versatile and we really like the fact that the body is made of shatter-proof silicone that adds extra sturdiness.
Additionally, all the materials used are food-grade and free of any harmful chemicals as well as BPA, PVC and BPS so there should be no plastic odor or taste.
This Nomader collapsible bottle also utilizes a patented twist cap design that includes a hygienic spout cover as well that’s meant to prevent you from consuming any nasty germs and dirt.
Lastly, the mouth opening is wide enough for adding ice or even fruits, while the bottle itself is dishwasher-friendly and don’t worry – it won’t collapse while you’re drinking!
Pros:
- Highly versatile, robust and outdoors-friendly
- Hygienic sprout cover + leak-proof twist cap
- Made of quality, food-grade plastic materials
Cons:
- There’s no insulation
- Cleaning it by hand might a bit annoying
8. Purifyou Premium Glass Water Bottle
[Best glass water bottle]
Capacity: 12 oz, 22 oz and 32 oz
Weight (empty): 8.2 oz, 15.7 oz and 20.8 oz
Mouth (opening): 1.125 inches
Price: $$
The Purifyou water bottle is our top glass pick that money can buy and as such it won’t leach any chemicals or bad flavors like some plastic and metal bottles do.
More specifically, this bottle is made of premium borosilicate that’s 100% recyclable and it offers superior heat resistance than regular glass.
Additionally, the twist-off cap makes for effortless and quick access to your precious water, while the interior of the lid is made of stainless steel to ensure that there’s no plastic in contact with the water.
Another cool feature is the addition of volume and time markings that are meant to help you figure out how much water (and when) you’ve been consuming throughout the day.
However, the aforementioned markings are only available on the bigger and more expensive 22-oz and 32-oz variants!
Last but not least, this stylish glass bottle also offers a non-slip grip silicone sleeve that’s high-impact resistant at the same time.
Pros:
- Doesn’t impact the flavor of the water
- Made of heat-resistant glass
- A sturdy and practical silicone sleeve
Cons:
- Harder to fill and clean due to the smaller mouth opening
- Heavy
9. Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle, 26 oz
[Best water filtering bottle]
Capacity: 26 oz
Weight (empty): 7.6 oz
Mouth (opening): 3.00 inches
Price: $
This water bottle is ideal if you’d like to get rid of that nasty chlorine taste and odor associated with tap water.
The way it removes chlorine and other chemical contaminants is quite simple – the in-built filter filters the water while you’re drinking.
And according to the manufacturer – Brita, 1 filter has the ability to replace 300 regular single-use plastic bottles and the filter can last up to 40 gallons (or 2 months).
Also, this Brita bottle also relies on a BPA-free, hard-plastic design with the addition of an enclosed straw for extra convenience.
On top of that, you can put the big closure and the push/pull cap in a dishwasher.
However, you’re supposed to remove the filter before doing so although I don’t think there’s a dire need to use the dishwasher to clean this bottle – just rinsing it should suffice.
Pros:
- Comes with a built-in filter
- Dishwasher-friendly
- Very affordable
- Lightweight
Cons:
- The filter has to be replaced
- Lacks double-walled insulation
10. Thermos Intak 24 Ounce Hydration Bottle with Meter
[Most budget-friendly water bottle]
Capacity: 24 oz
Weight (empty): 6.7 oz
Mouth (opening): 1.00 inches
Price: $
Although this compact water bottle is ergonomic and dead easy to drink from, its biggest perk is probably the fact that it’s dirt cheap!
And that doesn’t mean that it’s bad or anything as this Thermos bottle is made of durable Eastman Tritan co-polyester plastic.
This means that the plastic materials used are both dishwasher-safe and impact-resistant so hooray for that.
On top of that, there’s a rotating meter that can be found on the lid and it’s meant to assist you in keeping track of how much water you’re consuming.
Also, you’re getting a hygienic flip-up lid with locking rings to prevent any leaks, while the one-handed push opening adds a nice, fat layer of convenience to the mix.
Oh, and did you mention that it’s dirt cheap too?
Pros:
- Really low price
- Has a push-button flip lid
- Made of durable, BPA-free materials
Cons:
- Narrow mouth opening
- Not meant for any hot drinks/liquids
How to Pick The Right Water Bottle For You? [Buying Guide]
Before you buy your awesome brand new reusable water bottle, there are a few key aspects that you have to consider!
Plastic, Glass or Stainless Steel?
The 3 main types of reusable bottles are plastic, glass and stainless steel.
And here are the pros and cons of each:
1. Plastic Water Bottles
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Not insulated
- Can give off funny odors and flavors
2. Glass Water Bottles
Pros:
- Doesn’t impact flavor and taste
Cons:
- Fragile
- Heavier
3. Stainless Steel Water Bottles
Pros:
- Very robust
- Typically vacuum insulated
- Maintains heat longer
Cons:
- Subject to denting
- Might give off a metallic taste
Size and Dimensions
Although a 32-oz capacity might catch your attention, you have to realize that the bigger the capacity, the larger and heavier the bottle will be.
That’s why most brands out there generally have several different sizes on offer, mostly ranging from 12-32 oz., although higher-capacity bottles do exist.
Regardless, you should carefully consider what values more to you.
Do you need a lighter and smaller bottle or a massive water bottle that can keep you hydrated longer?
Putting things into perspective, this is what to expect from different capacity bottles:
- Smaller capacity – Lighter, thinner, more compact
- Larger capacity – Can hold heaps of water/liquid, usually with a wide mouth diameter
Thus, if you’re going to be somewhere camping for a few days, then, by all means, go for a larger capacity bottle.
But if you’re going to be backpacking or hiking, then a more compact bottle would be the better option as you won’t have to carry that much weight in your backpack.
What Lid Type to go For?
Each reusable portable water bottle comes with a particular lid design that you may or may not like.
The most common lid design types are:
- Flip-top spout lid
- Screw top lid
- Straw lid
Honestly, it’s down to personal preference which lid type is better over the other.
With that being said, flip-top and straw lids tend to be easier to use as you don’t have to screw and unscrew the top lid each time.
Although some folks prefer the old-school appeal of a screw top lid bottle and the sense of security it offers.
But if you’re an avid backpacker or hiker, then perhaps you’d want a water bottle with a carabiner lid that you can attach to your backpack.
FAQs
What makes a water bottle the “best”?
The best water bottles usually have a combination of key features.
These include:
- Being made from durable and safe materials like stainless steel or BPA-free plastic
- Having excellent insulation to keep liquids hot or cold
- Being leak-proof and easy to clean, having a comfortable and convenient design
- Offering additional features like built-in filters or infusers
What size water bottle should I choose?
The size of the water bottle depends on your personal needs and preferences.
For everyday use or office use, a 16-20 ounce (473-591 ml) bottle is usually sufficient.
If you’re planning outdoor activities or extended trips, you might prefer a larger capacity of 32 ounces (946 ml) or more.
Consider your hydration needs and how frequently you’ll have access to refill your bottle.
Are stainless steel water bottles better than plastic ones?
Both stainless steel and plastic water bottles have their advantages.
Stainless steel bottles are generally more durable, long-lasting, and better at retaining temperature.
They also have no risk of potential chemicals leaching into the water.
On the other hand, plastic bottles are often lighter and more affordable.
Look for BPA-free plastic options if you choose that route.
Can I put my water bottle in the dishwasher?
It depends on the water bottle. Some water bottles are dishwasher-safe, while others are not.
Most stainless steel bottles and certain types of plastic bottles are safe for the dishwasher.
However, for longevity, it’s often recommended to hand wash the bottles with mild soap and warm water to preserve their integrity and extend their lifespan.
Are there any water bottles that filter water?
Yes, there are water bottles available with built-in filtration systems.
These bottles are designed to remove impurities, chemicals, and odors from tap water or other water sources, providing you with clean and filtered water on the go.
If you frequently encounter water sources that are questionable in terms of quality, a water bottle with a built-in filter can be a convenient and reliable option.
Are reusable water bottles safe?
Yes, it’s safe to use a reusable water bottle, especially if you’re properly cleaning it on a regular basis.
That’s because the nature of these bottles and how they’re used typically includes the appearance of moisture.
Perhaps you’re pouring really hot or cold liquids into the bottle and/or there’s a significant difference between the outside and inside temperature (inside the bottle).
So when you neglect cleaning your bottle and when it’s exposed to moisture, the growth of harmful bacteria might eventually take place.
And while reusable bottles made of glass are probably your safest bet when it comes to how safe they are (see what I did there?), stainless steel and plastic are perfectly fine too.
When the glass is cooled or heated it won’t leach harmful chemicals into the water or liquids inside your water bottle.
Because glass is made of natural materials, there is no danger of inorganic chemicals leaching into liquids when it’s heated or cooled
What really matters here is to clean your water bottle on a regular basis.
Still, if you use a plastic bottle, make sure that it’s listed as BPA-free.
Can you save money by using a reusable water bottle?
Yes, you most definitely will be saving cash if you start using a reusable bottle for your hydration needs.
Just think about how often you buy one of those nasty disposable plastic water bottles when you’re thirsty.
Well, now consider how much you can save if you stop buying single-use bottles and instead bring your reusable water bottle with you, wherever you go.
For instance, if you have a reusable water bottle that costs $12, you could be saving around $160 on a yearly basis!
And while this might be just an estimation and an example, a reusable bottle will most definitely help you to spare your bank account.
Even better, by not using disposable bottles you’re doing your fair share in helping preserve the environment!
How do reusable water bottles help the environment?
Reusable water bottles help the environment in several primary ways since they:
- Protect the oceans and marine life
- Need less oil to be produced, compared to dispensible water bottles
- Produce less harmful emissions in the atmosphere
There’s no doubt that single-use plastic bottles keep piling up in various landfills across the globe and that’s a serious environmental issue.
Reusable bottles, on the other hand, are much less likely to end up in a landfill, although sooner or later you’ll still replace it but definitely not as frequently as standard disposable bottles.
Or in other words, reusable water bottles are much better for the environment than single-use bottles in every possible way.
Which plastic bottle is safe for drinking water?
The ones listed as BPA-free and plastic bottles labeled 1 or 2 as these are considered safe.
On the other hand, bottles labeled with the numbers 6 and 7 are supposed to be avoided.
However, while BPA is a known hormone disruptor, it’s far from being the only chemical with estrogenic activity.
In fact, a study published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal found that almost every plastic product that they tested leached some sort of EA (estrogen activity) chemicals (1).
Conclusion
So based on our extensive research, our top pick is undoubtedly the Hydro Flask Water Bottle .
It combines a unique blend of durability, superb material quality, great leak-proof design and brilliant reputation while also being super easy to clean.
But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t check the other bottles that we’ve hand-picked for our top 10 list.
Especially since you’ll find various categories of reusable water bottles, from models with a built-in filter to collapsible ones and even bottles for kids!
Now – what is your personal favorite reusable bottle and how did you choose it?
Leave your answer in the comment section below!
Simo, an outdoor specialist and avid survival enthusiast, brings over 3 years of experience in navigating and thriving in the great outdoors. With an unwavering passion for nature, Simo has honed their skills in various aspects of outdoor exploration, including camping, hiking, and wilderness survival. Their extensive knowledge and hands-on experience enable them to tackle challenges head-on while imparting valuable insights to fellow adventurers. His dedication to promoting outdoor safety and environmental stewardship make them a trusted resource for anyone seeking to embark on unforgettable outdoor experiences.
