Indeed, there is some truth to the adage “Water is life.” History and Science will tell us that man can survive without food for days, but it only takes at least 2 days to die without water. Survival during times of civil unrest, earthquake, tornado, cyclone, or any post-apocalypse scenarios can be tough without water– the clean kind. But while there are tons of bottled water in varying sizes and flavor nowadays, water storage solutions in time of disaster should never be taken for granted. As a newbie, here are some best water storage options for preppers which come highly recommended by experts in the field.

 

1. Water Barrels

When it comes to the best water storage option for preppers, the 55-gallon plastic drums featured in National Geographic shows and magazine editions always come to everyone’s mind. BPA-free and UV-resistant, these opaque plastic barrels are quite sturdy in providing approximately a month of drinking water supply to a family of five. While you can easily get a good one like the Augason Farms Emergency Water Storage Supply Kit below, recycling ones untouched by any chemical element is also an excellent alternative.

Augason Farms Emergency Water Storage Supply Kit

 

2. Single-Use Emergency Water Tub

Do you know that your bathtub can be turned into a safe fresh water haven in times of crisis? Yes! With the help of disposable water storage option like this patented product from waterBOB. This food-grade plastic collapsible container can be easily filled up in a bathtub with tap water. You can choose from 100-gallon, 200-gallon or 300-gallon variety to fit your current bathtub. It may also be attached to a faucet in lieu of a bath tub. This storage solution allows water to be fresh and safe up to 4 months! The WaterBOB also includes a siphon pump used for easy water extraction.

WaterBOB Emergency Drinking Water Storage

 

3. Collapsible Water Carrier

In times when the need to bug out is imminent, the use of collapsible water carrier will make transport of water faster, safer and more convenient. This leak-proof containers can be easily stored and towed around as they are complemented with integrated handles and easy-pour spigot for filling/refilling. BPA-free and made of food-grade polyethylene, it can resist any dents or cracks as well as withstand extreme weather conditions. In some brands, like Amazon’s choice of 5-gallon Coghlan’s Collapsible Water Container, the spigot’s opening may even accommodate ice cubes for a more refreshing feel during camping or sporting events.

Coghlan’s Collapsible Water Container (5-gallon)

 

4. Waterbricks

Build your own “water world” right in your burrow or a designated space with stackable waterbricks. Instead of bulky containers or storage options, each of these container can hold up to 3.5 gallons of water which can then, be stacked to accumulate your water supply over time. Made of premium quality highly-durable polyethylene material, Waterbricks are designed to save storage space and to last for months. It can also be used to store food and ammunition. Check out this WaterBrick 2-Pack Blue With Spigot Container for easy storage and usage.

WaterBrick 2-Pack Blue With Spigot Container

 

5. Rain Barrels

Rain barrels are not just for preppers. In fact, many homes around the globe are using these barrels on a daily basis– disastrous or not– to collect water from rain thereby, saving water in the process. Water collected, however, are used mainly for hygiene purposes or for gardening. It is so easy to assemble and can be placed just beneath a downspout from your home’s gutter, it can collect as much as 50 gallons worth of water. Do check with your local community if rain collection is allowed or if there’s a need for a special permit to have one. When cleared, this 50-gallon portable rain barrel from Etna will make one of the best water storage options for preppers.

 

Etna 50-gallon Portable Rain Barrel

Storing The Right Way

 

While there is no expiration date to water, the above-mentioned best water storage options for preppers must also be stored right. For water to be safe from microbial infestation, it must be airtight or properly sealed and must be opaque in color. Unwanted chemicals, bacteria and algae easily gets into your water source making it unsafe for drinking. To be safe, add a water purifier to your prepper arsenal to clean your water supply from impurities prior to consumption.