6 of the Best Water Bottles

Understanding the importance of staying hydrated throughout your day is a given. However, if you’re seeking guidance on selecting the best best water bottles while travelling in the mountains, we’re here to assist.

Here, we present our top picks for water bottles in 2023, encompassing a variety of styles. Our recommendations include classic hard-sided plastic models, ultralight and collapsible designs ideal for backpacking, and premium insulated bottles designed to maintain your beverages at the optimal temperature.

The price range for reusable water bottles varies, starting from a few pounds and going up to just under £50 (and potentially even more for those considering a “smart” water bottle). While the temptation might be to opt for the cheapest or the first bottle you come across, such a decision could lead to regret. By exploring different options, you can find a sturdy bottle for around ten pounds, capable of withstanding the rigors of being carried everywhere.

In line with the general principle of getting what you pay for, investing a bit more money can afford you valuable features. This may include leak-proof or insulated designs, and some bottles even come equipped with built-in water filters designed to purify tap water by removing impurities.

Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Flex Cap: Best large insulated water bottle

Hydro Flask’s high-quality stainless steel water bottle virtually eliminates the need for purchasing plastic bottles, whether reusable or disposable. Say goodbye to the taste of plastic in your drinks. Admittedly, it’s not entirely plastic-free—the wide mouth flex cap is crafted from BPA-free insulating plastic (with readily available replacements on Amazon, along with alternative style lids). However, the flask itself is constructed from lightweight steel, maintaining the temperature of hot drinks for up to 24 hours and cold drinks for the same duration. As an added bonus, it’s dishwasher-safe for easy and thorough cleaning.

As expected from a specialized company like Hydro Flask, the design features are impeccable. The robust yet pliable carry handle easily attaches to your backpack, making it convenient to keep your hands free when space is limited. When handling the bottle, the powder coating ensures a secure grip, even when perspiring. The wide mouth facilitates easy drinking, akin to a mug, minimizing the risk of spilling water on your face. While some users have noted a slight challenge in screwing on the lid if not aligned correctly, this minor concern aside, it stands out as one of the best-reviewed water bottles available. Furthermore, it comes in a fantastic array of colors to suit your preferences.

Capacity: 946ml Material: 18/8 Pro Grade Stainless Steel with BPA-free lid (dishwasher-safe)

Nalgene Narrow Mouth Tritan bottle: A simple, yet great value reusable bottle

The Nalgene Tritan Narrow Mouth stands out as an exceptional value for a drinks bottle, and we wholeheartedly recommend it above all other products on this list. Its excellence lies in the simplicity of its design: the narrow mouth facilitates easy sipping during various activities, and the leak-proof lid ensures you won’t inadvertently drench your belongings when tossing it into your bag. The side markings make it convenient to monitor your water intake.

The lid’s plastic loop provides a simple way to carry the bottle or attach it to your bag. Similar to its well-known wide-mouth counterpart, the Tritan Narrow Mouth is durable, offering confidence that it won’t deform or crack upon impact. Importantly, the water retains no plastic taste, and the bottle is dishwasher-safe, leaving no excuse for neglecting to keep your Nalgene fresh at all times. The only drawback is that the larger of the two sizes (available in 500ml and 1,000ml) may be too bulky to fit into the side pockets of many backpacks.

Capacity: 500ml; Material: BPA/BPS-free Tritan plastic (dishwasher-safe)

Ronhill H20 Bottle: Best water bottle with filter

The Ronhill H20 Bottle stands out for its user-friendly design, featuring an ergonomic shape, a soft-touch finish that stays secure in sweaty hands, and a reliable wrist strap for added convenience. Equipped with a filter, this bottle enhances the taste of water, a feature appreciated by many. Its vibrant pink color ensures it won’t go unnoticed during your trek through the wilderness. For those preferring a more subdued option, John Lewis offers the same bottle in a subtle grey hue.

Capacity: 600ml; Material: BPA-free polyamide

CamelBak Chute Mag: Best water bottle with secure magnetic lid

CamelBak stands as one of the most enduring names in water bottles. Originally, its founder devised a method using IV drop bottles to carry water for expeditions, and since then, the company’s bottles have undergone significant evolution. The Chute Mag, crafted from BPA-free plastic, showcases an ingenious magnetic flip top, addressing the challenge of securing a threaded lid when fatigued and sweaty. CamelBak asserts that the lid is “leak-proof when closed,” but for added assurance, it’s advisable to give it a quick tighten, especially when the bottle is full. While it might take a bit of adjustment, the lid is permanently attached, eliminating concerns about misplacement.

Capacity: 750ml, 1L Material: BPA/BPS/BPF-free plastic (dishwasher-safe)

Chilly’s Reusable Water Bottle: Best for insulation