Staying hydrated on a hike is a top priority for most hikers, but what are the best hiking water bottles to keep you going without weighing you down?
Our resident hikers have picked out their top 11 favourite water bottles to quench your thirst while navigating peaks and trails in all conditions.
Nalgene 32oz Wide Mouth Sustain Water Bottle
Vapur Wide Mouth 1.0L Folding Water Bottle
Lifestraw Go Stainless Steel 700ml Filter Water Bottle
Nalgene On-The-Fly Lock-Top Sustain Bottle 24oz
Water2Go Sugarcane Bottle
Nalgene Sustain Narrow Mouth Bottle 1L
Hydrapak Pioneer Water Bladder (6L/10L)
Water2Go 75cl Active 3-In-1 Filter Water Bottle
Lifestraw Go Renew Series Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Katadyn BeFree Filter Gravity 3L
Vapur Incognito Flask 300ml
Our Top 11 Best Hiking Water Bottles
All hikers have different needs when it comes to hydration and the kit they prefer to haul around on trails. We've picked our favourite no-leak water bottles to upgrade your gear and make your adventures more enjoyable.
Nalgene is a well-known name in the world of hiking and outdoor sports. The Wide Mouth Sustain bottle is the ideal choice for the eco-conscious hiker, thanks to its composition of 50% recycled plastic (using ISCC certified mass balance) and revolutionary resin powered by cutting-edge recycling tech.
The wide-mouth design allows for ice or fresh fruit and veg infusions for a refreshing kick when you need a boost on your hike.
Available in over 20 colour choices, you can choose a bottle that reflects who you are both on and off the trails.
Hiking gear is all about convenience, so the Vapur Wide Mouth Folding Water Bottle is always going to be a winner. Despite its generous capacity, this bottle can be rolled up to easily fit into your pocket.
The durable BPA-free 3-Ply material is dishwasher-safe, to make cleaning quick and simple. It's also freezer-safe to allow for frozen hydration on longer or hotter hikes.
Featuring a Supercap and flip cap, this leak-proof bottle offers multiple ways to stay hydrated on the go.
At the top end of the scale in terms of price, we have the Lifestraw Go Stainless Steel Filter Bottle. If you're a fan of trekking to far-flung places with few water sources, like the Inca Trail, you're likely already a fan of Lifestraw products.
The included membrane microfilter, which lasts for up to 4,000L (that's 5714 fill-ups), effectively removes 99.999999% of bacteria, 99.999% of parasites, and 99.999% of microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness from your water, making it ideal for topping up your water on the go.
Another option from Nalgene is the On-The-Fly Lock-Top bottle. This slim-line option is ideal for hikers who like to travel light and want their refreshment to be convenient and quick.
The fortified cap can easily be opened with one hand for hydration on the go, and even during activities such as cycling, but locks securely to avoid leaks in bags.
The unique cap shape allows for the bottle to be attached to straps or large carabiners for easy transportation and quick access.
The 50% recycled plastic construction is BPA-free and dishwasher safe to ensure clean, safe hydration every time.
Reusable water bottles are great for reducing single-use plastics, but removing plastic altogether is even better for the environment.
Introducing the Water2Go Sugarcane Bottle! This mid-sized water bottle is made entirely from sugarcane, making it one of the most eco-friendly products on the market. Despite its eco-conscious material, this bottle is still dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning.
But that's not all, because it's also great at filtering water so you can refill on the go.
The 3-in-1 filtration system rids your water of 99.9999% of all bacteria, viruses, chlorine, and heavy metals, leaving you with refreshing and safe water, wherever you are.
Another Nalgene entry is the Sustain Narrow Mouth Bottle. This 1L bottle has a generous capacity, and a conveniently narrow mouth to make sipping on the go much easier (and avoid spilling it down yourself).
The BPA-free Tritan plastic body makes this bottle highly impact-resistant and longer-lasting, so you don't have to replace it as soon as some other bottles on the market, even with the harsh wear and tear of difficult hikes.
For more intensive hikes and multi-day trips, the Hydrapak Pioneer water bladder is the ideal choice. Choose from 6L or 10L capacities to suit the hydration needs of yourself or your group.
Water bladders are always a winning choice for longer hikes with few water sources, allowing you to carry sufficient fluids without taking up storage space with multiple bulky water bottles.
This Hydrapack model wins our vote thanks to its wide-opening reservoir and slide-seal top for convenient and leak-proof transportation. The bladder can also be carried over the shoulder on hikes or hung from tree limbs for convenient access when you set up camp.
The unique 3-in-1 filter system is created with NASA technology and works instantly to remove 99.9999% of bacteria, viruses, and micro-organisms to make almost any drinking water safe and tasty.
Not only does this 700ml bottle feature 2-stage filtration, which means you can fill your bottle from practically any water source, but it's also double-wall vacuum-insulated to keep your water cold all day.
With replaceable filters and parts, this bottle could accompany you on hiking adventures for the rest of your life!
Its 3-litre capacity provides enough clean, safe drinking water for everyone. The gravity-based system filters water effortlessly, with no need for pumping or squeezing, ideal for group pit stops.
The filter effectively removes harmful bacteria and protozoa, giving you peace of mind on any adventure.
If you like to add a little bit of fun to your hikes, the Vapur Incognito Flask is the "water bottle" for you!
This cheeky little 300ml foldable bottle features a flexible, low-profile design that allows you to transport adult beverages on the down-low.
The included pourer makes transferring alcohol directly from the original bottle into the flask quick and easy.
Best of all, this bottle is freezer-safe and dishwasher-safe to make cleaning a breeze and facilitate ice-cool refreshment once you reach the peak of your hike.
Staying hydrated is super important when hiking. It keeps your energy up, helps you stay cool, and keeps your body working at its best.
Even on short hikes, you’ll lose water through sweat, especially in hot weather or during tough climbs. That’s why carrying a water bottle is a must.
It makes sure you’ve got safe drinking water on hand to avoid dehydration, which can leave you feeling tired, dizzy, or unfocused (definitely not ideal on tricky trails!).
Top Tip: If you invest in a water bottle with a filter, you can refill from water sources along the way and stay refreshed for the entire hike.
What Size Water Bottle is Best for My Hike?
The best size water bottle for your hike depends on a variety of factors, as well as personal preference.
For shorter, easier hikes in mild weather, a smaller bottle (around 500ml to 1 litre) might suffice. However, for longer or more strenuous hikes, especially in hot weather, you’ll need to carry more water (at least 2 to 3 litres) to stay properly hydrated.
Your fitness levels also play a role, as you may need to drink more if you’re working harder on steep ascents or challenging terrain.
You should also consider whether you’re comfortable carrying a larger, bulkier bottle, or if you’d prefer a smaller one and plan to refill from water sources along the way, particularly if you have a filtered bottle.
Will My Camping Water Bottle Be Suitable For Hiking?
This is another situation where it depends on the bottle and your personal preferences. If your camping water bottle is a bulky 8-litre water carrier that you decant into cups in your camp, it's probably not ideal for a hike.
However, if you have a smaller water bottle that you refill at camp, this should be fine to take on your hike.
Narrow Mouth Vs Standard Mouth Vs Wide Mouth
You'll have seen all these types of bottles in brick and mortar outdoor stores, on our website, and in this article, but what's the difference, and what does it mean for your hiking hydration?[in boxes]
Narrow Mouth Bottles
Narrow-mouth bottles have a small opening, making them ideal for preventing spills and easy to drink from while on the move.
They’re particularly useful during hikes where you may not have time to stop and carefully pour water. However, the small opening can make them challenging to clean and refill, especially if you use ice or need to add hydration powders.
Pros:
Prevents spills during drinking.
Easier to drink from while walking.
Compact and often lightweight.
Cons:
Difficult to clean and dry.
Tricky to refill, especially with larger water sources.
Standard Mouth Bottles
Standard mouth bottles strike a balance between narrow and wide mouth designs.
They offer a moderate opening that makes them easier to refill and clean compared to narrow-mouth types, while still being manageable for spill-free drinking. They’re a versatile option for hikers who want a practical, all-around bottle.
Pros:
Easier to clean and refill than narrow-mouth bottles.
Allows controlled drinking without frequent spills.
Compatible with many filters and lids.
Cons:
May still be slightly restrictive for adding ice or mixing powders
Wide Mouth Bottles
Wide-mouth bottles have large openings, which makes them the easiest to clean, refill, and add ice or powders to. They’re particularly useful for long hikes where frequent topping up or cleaning is required.
However, the wide opening makes precise drinking on the move more difficult, and they can be prone to spills if not handled carefully.
Pros:
Easiest to clean and refill.
Compatible with ice cubes and hydration powders.
Offers versatility for multi-use scenarios.
Cons:
Higher chance of spills while drinking.
Bulkier and may not fit some bottle holders.
Is an Insulated Water Bottle Better Than an Uninsulated One?
For hiking, an insulated water bottle is generally a better choice than an uninsulated one.
Insulated bottles maintain your drink's temperature, keeping water cool on hot days or tea warm on chilly hikes. This significantly improves comfort and hydration on long treks, especially in extreme weather. They also reduce exterior condensation, keeping your gear dry.
While uninsulated bottles are lighter and cheaper, they don't offer temperature control. This can lead to warm water in summer or cold drinks in winter.
For hikers who prioritise performance and comfort, the advantages of an insulated bottle outweigh its slightly heavier weight.
Final Words: What is the Best Overall Water Bottle For Hiking?
Choosing the best water bottle for hiking depends on your priorities and the type of adventures you take.
If you’re heading into remote areas and need to purify water from natural sources, bottles like Lifestraw are a great option. With built-in filtration systems, they make it easy to stay hydrated safely.
For hikers on a budget who want something durable and reliable, Nalgene bottles are a solid choice. They’re affordable, tough, and perfect for those who need a dependable option.
Ultimately, the right water bottle comes down to your specific needs, budget, and personal preferences.
Invest in Hydration With Reliable Water Bottles From Wood To Water
At Wood To Water, we're proud to stock a wide range of water bottles for all kinds of hikes and other outdoor adventures.
Whether you need built-in filtration to keep you hydrated and healthy on hikes in far-flung places, or you just want a leak-proof bottle that won't soak your plasters and sunnies in water when visiting national parks, we've got you covered.
Check out our full range of water bottles and flasks online today and get free delivery on orders over £60!
Are Metal Bottles Better Than Plastic Water Bottles for Hiking?
Nalgene is popular for hiking due to its affordable price range, durable design from recycled plastic, and wide product range, catering to various outdoor needs while supporting sustainability and offering exceptional value for budget-conscious adventurers.
Why is Nalgene So Popular As a Hiking Water Bottle?
Nalgene is popular for hiking due to its affordable price range, durable design from recycled plastic, and wide product range, catering to various outdoor needs while supporting sustainability and offering exceptional value for budget-conscious adventurers.
Do You Really Need Electrolytes When Hiking?
Yes, electrolytes are essential when hiking as they help replenish minerals lost through sweat, maintain hydration, and prevent muscle cramps and fatigue. They support overall performance, especially during strenuous or extended outdoor activities.
How Much Do I Need To Drink on a Hike?
The amount you need to drink depends on the hike’s intensity and temperature, but generally aim for 0.5 to 1 litre of water per hour to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels throughout your trek.
