Even if you have a gas station around the corner from you that’s open 24/7 and you never let your fuel gauge dip below the quarter mark, it can still be a good idea to invest in a gas can. When setting up an emergency kit, the top priorities are typically things like water, flashlights, and non-perishable foods. But the resource that can go the longest way is arguably gasoline. In the event of a natural disaster, gas stations may very well be closed. A gas canister can be helpful in letting you get out of the area. And if you’re not planning on evacuating, a gas canister can be used to power a portable generator.
Even in non-emergency situations, a reliable gas canister can still be a worthwhile investment. It can be used to power gas-powered equipment such as lawnmowers. And if you live far away from a gas station, for example, then it’s a must.
There are a few things you’ll want to look for when buying a gas canister. Some abbreviations to familiarize yourself with are EPA and CARB. You’ve probably heard of the former, which is the Environmental Protection Agency. The other is CARB. No, it’s not a hot new pasta and bread restaurant. It’s the California Air Resources Board, and it enforces more stringent rules on things that may pollute the air.
Most gas cans are either made from plastic or steel. The steel options on this list are what are called “safety gas cans,” which are designed to reduce the risk of explosions, escaping vapors, and other risks. Plastic is generally cheaper and can be easier to carry. All of these options have various design features that reduce the risk of spillage.
Whether you need something for your car, motorcycle, or a small gas motor, these are some of the best options available right now.
1. No-Spill 5-Gallon Poly Gas Can
The challenge with gas can is that it can be hard to tilt them into place without spilling. That can leave you feeling like a toddler trying to pour a large bottle of orange juice into a glass. That’s why the design of this container is so innovative. It features a button on the top of the container that only opens the nozzle when you press it. That way, you can get the canister into place without spilling. The container also features a small nozzle, so you can easily fill up smaller tanks. In addition, it’s CARB-compliant, making it suitable for use in California.
Pros: CARB-compliant canister with a single push-button nozzle that helps reduce the risk of spills. It uses a small nozzle, which is helpful in filling smaller vehicles, but at up to three gallons per minute, the nozzle still pours quickly
Cons: Somewhat expensive, and getting used to the pouring mechanism can take time.
2. Eagle Gasoline Safety Can
One good way to ensure the safety of the gas is with a safety can. This option, from Eagle, is made with galvanized steel to protect the contents of the container. The cans are seamless to ensure additional protection. Other safety details include a flame arrestor and a spring-loaded closing lid with an automatic venting gasket. The canisters are also made in the US.
Pros: Good option for a safety can, features smart details like a spring-loaded opening that protects from leakage.
Cons: Can sometimes be difficult to remove the funnel.
3. GARAGE BOSS Briggs and Stratton Press ‘N Pour Gas Can
A simple and affordable plastic option is this canister from Garage Boss. It features a simple spout with a top button to dispense liquid. Included is a cap to keep dust out of your fuel supply and a spout extension. The extension slows the flow, so if you need to fill a larger tank, you can remove the extension and get a faster flow. As an added convenience, the dust cap has a designated holder on the canister, so you’ll be less likely to misplace it. As for safety regulations, it’s CARB and EPA-approved.
Pros: Affordable canister with various safety features like a button to control the pouring for reduced spillage. CARB and EPA approved.
Cons: It can be difficult to press the button with one hand.
4. Midwest Can Gasoline Can
This gas can from Midwest Can holds 2 gallons, making it a good option for storing an emergency supply or gas or adding fuel to a machine. It’s made from high-density plastic, so it’ll be a lighter option than some metal cans. It’s designed to be a safe option thanks to the auto-shutoff spout.
Pros: Affordable. Auto-shutoff spout.
Cons: Some may prefer an option with a higher capacity.
5. RotopaX RX-2G Gasoline Pack
This option has a slim build similar to a jerry can, making it a great option for storing on the back of a truck, such as a Jeep. It has a 2-gallon capacity, although you can get a more space-saving 1 or 1.75 gallon option as well. It has multiple handles for easier pouring as well. The cans are American-made as well.
Pros: Made in US. Compact shape that can be mounted. Available in multiple sizes.
Cons: Somewhat expensive.
6. No-Spill 1457 Diesel Fuel Can, Yellow
Diesel cans are typically yellow, making it easier to differentiate between diesel and gas cans. This option is made by No-Spill, and they literally stake their name on the button-activated spout, which is designed to reduce spills. The canister is EPA and CARB-compliant as well.
Pros: Button-activated spout to reduce spills. EPA and CARB-compliant.
Cons: Small spout means somewhat slow pour.
7. DuraMax Flo n’ Go LE Fluid Transfer Pump and 14-Gallon Rolling Gas Can
Maybe you need a little more fuel than the average milk jug-sized canister can carry. That’s what this large, 14-gallon gas can is designed. If the idea of trying to carry around a 14-gallon container sounds unpleasant, don’t worry. This option has wheels for easier carting. It has a transfer pump with a hose for easy fueling.
Pros: Large capacity. Has a hose for easy fueling.
Cons: Wheels could be smoother.
8. VP Racing Fuels Motorsport Utility Jug Red (4 Pack)
You probably won’t be using these jugs to refuel a racecar, but the VP Racing logo will put some pep in your step while you’re safely and slowly filling up. Each jug has a 5-gallon capacity, and four jugs are included. The jugs each come with a hose for dispensing.
Pros: Multi-pack makes it easy to stock up. Available in a variety of colors.
Cons: May not be available in some regions due to regulations.
9. Eagle UI-50-SY Metal Safety Can, Diesel
If you’re looking for an option for diesel, this one from Eagle is a good one to get. It’s made out of metal, meaning it’ll be durable. The can is yellow, marking it as a diesel can. It’s CARB-compliant, so it’s approved for use in California. The flame arrestor helps prevent the fuels from catching on fire.
Pros: Sturdy metal option. Good pick for diesel. CARB-Compliant
Cons: More expensive than some other options.
10. Justrite Galvanized Steel Red Safety Can
Justrite is one of the most trusted makers of safety gas cans. This option is made from galvanized steel and has a flexible spout for easily angling it toward the spout. The trigger-design makes it easy to control the flow of gas, and the canister is outfitted with a stainless steel flame arrester. This helps reduce the risk of ignition. The canister is safe by OSHA standards as well as the NFPA (National Flame Protection Association). In addition, the canister is backed by a 10-year warranty from Justrite.
Pros: Backed by a 10-year warranty and ensured by safety standards like OSHA and the NFPA. Features an easy to use trigger design to control the flow of gas.
Cons: One-inch nozzle may be too large for filling some things. However, Justrite offers other cans with smaller nozzles.