Whether you’re committing to a lengthy thru-hike or taking a day trip with the family, hydration should be a top priority. Sipping water during your trek will keep you energized and prepared for the trail ahead. And this requires the perfect hiking thermos. However, with so many products on the market, it can be tricky to narrow down your options.
A truly functional thermos goes beyond aesthetics. It keeps your water cold for hours and stands up to wear and tear in the harshest conditions. It’s also easy to hold, resistant to condensation and generally low-maintenance. Extra features like changeable lids and carabiners are also a plus, as are versatile sizing and fun colors.
In general, you want to look for a product that can go the distance with you.
To get you started on your search, we’ve taken the work out of finding the right insulated water bottle for your lifestyle. Here are our picks for the best hiking thermoses on the web.
1. Healthy Human Water Bottle
If you’re looking for a functional and stylish thermos to bring on your next trek, this stainless steel water bottle from Healthy Human is a great option. It’s double-wall vacuum design keeps liquids cold or hot, and the sweat-free exterior stays comfortably in your hand. The product is also BPA-free, though the steel lining prevents your drink from touching plastic of any kind. This durable water bottle is available in 16oz, 21oz, 32oz and 40oz sizes. And, best of all, you can choose from a wide selection of bright colors and funky patterns.
Pros: Keeps liquids cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours. Sweat-free design allows for easy handling, and you can clip it on your pack with the free carabiner.
Cons: The stainless steel exterior can dent on impact, and the colored coating may chip over time.
2. Simple Modern Ascent Water Bottle
Another vacuum-insulated product, the Simple Modern water bottle offers impressive features for the price. The bottle includes a stainless steel exterior and a copper-coated insulation layer. It’s also available in 12oz to 64oz sizes, so this water bottle can work for both children and adults. Likewise, thanks to the sleek, modern design, this water bottle will look perfectly at home whether you bring it on the trail or to the office.
Pros: The insulation technology can keep liquids cold for a day or more, depending on the size. A narrow mouth allows for comfortable drinking and fewer spills.
Cons: The lid may break off if you drop the water bottle onto a hard surface. This product doesn’t come with a carabiner, so you will need to purchase your own.
3. The Coldest Water Bottle
The Coldest Water’s product is a practical buy for active people, especially hikers. This bottle features ring vacuum insulation and durable stainless steel. The flip-top lid makes it ideal for hydration on the go, whether at the gym or on a trail. This design is also kid-friendly. You can snag this water bottle in a 12oz, 21oz, gallon or 128oz size. The water bottle also includes a rubber grip on the outside and sweat-free design for comfortable carrying. Buyers have the option to add a straw to the product.
Pros: This product can keep liquids cold for 36 hours or more. It also floats in bodies of water, so you won’t need to worry about losing it if you take a swim. Comes in extra-large sizes for longer treks.
Cons: The water bottle’s straw system may be tricky to clean, and ice might not fit into the narrow mouthpiece easily.
4. Iron Flask Sports Water Bottle
This stainless steel water bottle is ideal for outdoor and everyday use. The double-walled insulation keeps liquids cool for up to 24 hours and warm for up to 12. You’ll receive a carabiner straw lid, stainless steel lid and flip lid when buying the thermos. This product is available in 14-64oz sizes.
Pros: The insulation technology keeps water ice cold in warm conditions without condensation. Three different lid options makes the bottle ideal for all ages and functions, and you can choose from over a dozen colors.
Cons: This product is hand-wash only. Flip-top lid may start leaking with time.
5. BUZIO Stainless Steel Water Bottle
BUZIO’s stainless steel water bottle is one of the largest products on this list, with sizes starting at 32oz. The vacuum-insulated bottle uses the company’s TempArmour technology to insulate liquids. It also comes with a straw lid, flex cap, straws and straw cleaners. Thanks to the large size and mouthpiece, this is a great hiking thermos for anyone who likes to bring ice-cold beverages on their hiking adventures.
Pros: The large water bottle will keep you hydrated all day, and both lids are compatible with a carabiner. This product also features a 2.2 inch mouth, so ice should fit easily inside. The company offers a lifetime warranty.
Cons: This large water bottle may be tricky to carry during a hike and is likely to big for kids. The product is hand-wash only.