Listen to the full episode here:
Need advice on the best way to store and transport your precious H2O for your adventures?
Check out this episode of the Snowys Camping Show. Our outdoor experts Ben and Lauren talk through the options for carrying and storing water. They cover jerry cans, soft water cells, water tanks, plus considerations such as filtration, treatments, and more – so listen below for all the details.
Shortcuts:
00:00 – Intro
02:25 – Jerry cans
07:22 – Soft water cells
12:31 – Water tanks
16:51 – Tank sanitisers & water purification
17:30 – Portable water filters
20:45 – Storing water at home
Mentioned in this Episode:
Jerry Cans
Jerry cans are an affordable, tough, and reliable option for carting water around, and are probably the most popular choice for entry-level campers. They come in a range of shapes and sizes to suit your vehicle set up, are fairly easy to clean and fill, and allow you to spread out your water supply in case one jerry can leaks or gets contaminated.
The disadvantage, however, is that once they’re empty, they become ‘dead space’ in your vehicle yet still need to be carried. When new, jerry cans tend to give water an aftertaste and will heat up while sitting in the back of the car. They also need to be stored low in your vehicle for safety reasons.
Soft Water Cells
Soft water cells vary and have been around a while. But recently, there have been some new developments in the market that have made them even more functional for your camping adventures.
The main benefit of them is that they shrink as you drink, so you can pack them flat once they’re empty. They’re also easy to fill, the caps are designed for easy pouring, and some models come with extra features such as a showerhead attachment for more versatility.
There are a few options for water storage depending on your set up. Image: Sea to Summit
Water Tank with a 12V Pump
If you go away regularly, a water tank with a 12V pump might be the most convenient choice for your adventures. It will give you simple access to your water without having to unpack your vehicle every time you need H2O.
Keep in mind, a water tank isn’t easy to clean due to its size and shape. To combat that factor, there are tank sanitisers and purification products available that will help keep the water inside drinkable.
Other factors to consider are that they are difficult to remove from your vehicle and need to be refilled from a mains water supply. If that supply is contaminated for any reason, you will be left without water.
Storing Water at Home
If you use jerry cans or soft water cells, it will be easiest to just stow them empty with the lid open in your shed so that they can dry out. If you have a water tank, then you can either leave it completely full to the top to prevent mould growth or empty with the bungs open to air it out.
Filters & Water Treatments
Whenever you go camping remotely you should also consider carrying a water filter or treatment solution just in case your supply runs out and you need to use whatever water source you come across in the field.
Thanks for listening, tune in again for next week’s episode!
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Catch you out there!