By Audrey HayesUpdated November 2026
Choosing a water tank for overlanding comes down to how much water you need to carry, how you plan to use it, and how much space your vehicle can spare. A tank that works for weekend showers at a campsite may be the wrong choice for a multi-day desert crossing, and a large collapsible bladder can be impractical on a small rig. This guide compares six options across capacity, pressurization, packability and intended use, so you can match a tank to your trips. We looked at manufacturer specifications, brand track records and the patterns owners tend to report, and we did not test these products ourselves.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallYakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water TankView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for large capacity100 Gallon Portable Water Tank Foldable Water Storage Containers WithView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for RV-style fresh waterTPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water TankView on Amazon - 4
Best budget pickCOOZMENT 3.2 Gallon/5 Gallon Water Containers with SpigotView on Amazon - 5
Best for outdoor showersPortable Camping Shower – Pressurized Water Tank with Handheld ShowerheadView on Amazon - 6
Best for compact rigsPressurized Shower Water Tank 8 GLView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water Tank | Overall vehicle-mounted use | Pressurized delivery with a rack-friendly design |
| 100 Gallon Portable Water Tank Foldable Water Storage Containers | Large water reserves | 400L foldable capacity with a valve |
| TPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water Tank | RV-style fresh water storage | Food-grade, BPA-free TPU with 3/4″ GHT fitting |
| COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon/5 Gallon Water Containers with Spigot | Budget and smaller supplies | Built-in spigot on a lightweight jug |
| Portable Camping Shower Pressurized Water Tank | Trail showers | Handheld showerhead included |
| Pressurized Shower Water Tank 8 GL | Compact pressurized storage | 8-gallon pressurized capacity |
Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water Tank
Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water Tank
Best for: Overall vehicle-mounted use
This tank suits overlanders who want a dedicated, pressurized water source that stays organized on the vehicle. It works well for people who camp several nights at a time and want reliable washing water without hauling loose containers.
Key specs
- 10 gallon capacity
- Pressurized delivery system
Pros
- Pressurized flow reduces the need for a separate pump setup
- Designed for mounting, which keeps the cargo area open
- Well-known brand with broad owner familiarity
Cons
- Ten gallons runs out quickly on extended trips
- Mounting hardware and placement take planning
Bottom line: A strong first choice for overlanders who want a clean, mounted shower and wash system with a recognizable brand behind it.
100 Gallon Portable Water Tank Foldable Water Storage Containers With Valve Bathtub Water Bladder
100 Gallon Portable Water Tank Foldable Water Storage Containers With Valve Bathtub Water Bladder,Large Capacity Water Storage Bladder Containers(400L)
Best for: Large water reserves
This is a bladder designed for long stretches between water sources. It fits people who run dry camps, desert routes or base camps where they fill once and stay put for several days.
Key specs
- 100 gallon (400L) listed capacity
- Foldable construction with a valve
Pros
- Large capacity for multi-day use
- Collapses flat when empty, saving cargo space
- Valve simplifies filling and draining
Cons
- Full weight is heavy, so mounting must be secure
- Bladders need protection from sharp rocks and abrasion
Bottom line: Best for people who need a big reserve and can find a secure spot for it inside or on the vehicle.
TPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water Tank
TPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water Tank, Food Grade BPA Free Collapsible Flexible Container for Drinking, Camping, Irrigation & Emergency-Hurricane, Drought, Fire (3/4” GHT)
Best for: RV-style fresh water storage
This tank is aimed at people who want potable-grade storage for drinking, cooking and washing. Its listing emphasizes food-grade materials, which matters if the water will be used for consumption.
Key specs
- 60 gallon capacity
- TPU material, listed as BPA free and food grade
- 3/4″ GHT fitting
Pros
- Food-grade material suits drinking water
- Standard garden hose thread simplifies filling
- Collapsible when not in use
Cons
- Requires a clean, dedicated setup to stay potable
- Sixty gallons is heavy once full
Bottom line: Good for overlanders who want drinking-grade storage in a large, flexible form, provided they keep the tank and hoses sanitary.
COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon/5 Gallon Water Containers with Spigot
COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon/5 Gallon Water Containers with Spigot, BPA Free Water Jug, Military Green Water Tank, Multifunction Water Storage Containers for Camping Outdoor Hiking,Emergency Storage
Best for: Budget and smaller supplies
This is a practical choice for people who want simple, portable water jugs they can carry, pour and stack. It fits solo travelers, day trips, or as a backup supply alongside a larger tank.
Key specs
- 3.2 gallon and 5 gallon sizes listed
- Built-in spigot
- BPA-free plastic
Pros
- Easy to carry and pour without extra equipment
- Spigot allows controlled dispensing
- Lightweight relative to larger tanks
Cons
- Small capacity limits longer trips
- Spigots can leak if not tightened properly
Bottom line: A sensible budget pick for backup water and short trips, not a primary supply for a full overlanding week.
Portable Camping Shower – Pressurized Water Tank with Handheld Showerhead
Portable Camping Shower – Pressurized Water Tank with Handheld Showerhead – Ideal for Overlanding and Outdoor Activities, Perfect for Camping and Adventures
Best for: Trail showers
This kit suits people who want a hot-or-cold outdoor shower at camp without a built-in vehicle system. It works for families and solo travelers who value cleanliness on multi-day routes.
Key specs
- Pressurized tank design
- Handheld showerhead included
Pros
- Complete shower solution in one package
- Pressurized flow is easier than gravity-fed setups
- Portable enough to set up at any campsite
Cons
- Capacity is modest for extended showering
- Pressure drops as the tank empties
Bottom line: A good pick for overlanders whose main goal is a shower at camp rather than bulk water storage.
Pressurized Shower Water Tank 8 GL
Pressurized Shower Water Tank 8 GL
Best for: Compact pressurized storage
This eight-gallon pressurized tank fits smaller vehicles and tight mounting spaces. It is a reasonable middle ground between a jerry can and a full-size mounted system.
Key specs
- 8 gallon capacity
- Pressurized design
Pros
- Compact footprint for smaller rigs
- Pressurized output for showers and rinsing
- Manageable weight when partially filled
Cons
- Limited capacity for group or extended trips
- Specific fittings and hoses may need replacing for your setup
Bottom line: Suited to smaller overlanding builds or solo travelers who want pressurized water without a large footprint.
Buying Guide
Capacity and Trip Length
Plan roughly one gallon per person per day for drinking and basic cooking, then add more for washing, dishes and any showers. A two-person, three-day trip with showers can easily require 20 gallons or more. Match tank size to your longest stretch between refill points, not to your average day.
Good picks for this: 100 Gallon Portable Water Tank Foldable Water Storage Containers, Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water Tank
Pressurized Versus Gravity-Fed Systems
Pressurized tanks deliver water with consistent flow to a faucet or showerhead, while gravity-fed or simple bladders require you to lift or tilt for flow. Pressurized designs are more comfortable for washing, but they add a pump or pressure component that needs occasional checking.
Good picks for this: Portable Camping Shower Pressurized Water Tank, Pressurized Shower Water Tank 8 GL
Food-Grade Materials
If you plan to drink from the tank, look for food-grade and BPA-free materials stated by the manufacturer. Keep in mind that a food-grade tank can still become unsafe if it was previously used for chemicals or fuel, so dedicate it to water only.
Good picks for this: TPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water Tank, COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon/5 Gallon Water Containers with Spigot
Size, Fit and Mounting
Measure the space where the tank will live before you buy. Bladders are easier to fit into irregular spaces, while rigid mounted tanks need brackets and clearance. Remember that a full tank can weigh over 8 pounds per gallon, so keep the load secured and within your vehicle’s payload rating.
Good picks for this: Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water Tank, Pressurized Shower Water Tank 8 GL
Fittings and Filling
Standard garden hose threads such as 3/4″ GHT make refilling at campgrounds and home easier. Check whether the valve or spigot is removable for cleaning, and carry an adapter if your hose connection differs.
Good picks for this: TPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water Tank, 100 Gallon Portable Water Tank Foldable Water Storage Containers
Durability and Puncture Resistance
Soft bladders can be damaged by sharp rocks, thorns and sun exposure, while hard containers resist punctures but can crack in freezing temperatures. Store water tanks out of direct sunlight and inspect seams and valves before each trip.
Good picks for this: Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon Pressurized Water Tank, COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon/5 Gallon Water Containers with Spigot
Cleaning and Care
Flush the tank with a mild solution of water and unscented household bleach according to the manufacturer’s directions, then rinse thoroughly. Drain and dry fully before storage to prevent odor and mildew, and replace any hose or fitting that shows cracks.
Good picks for this: TPU Water Storage Bladder, 60 Gallon Portable RV Fresh Water Tank, Portable Camping Shower Pressurized Water Tank
FAQ
How much water should I carry for overlanding?
A common planning figure is about one gallon per person per day for drinking and cooking, plus extra for washing. Add a margin for emergencies, and always research water sources along your route before you go.
Can I drink water from an overlanding water tank?
Only if the tank and hoses are rated food grade and used exclusively for drinking water. Clean and sanitize the system before first use and periodically afterward. If you have health concerns about water quality, consult a qualified professional or your local health department.
Are collapsible bladders durable enough for trail use?
Many are designed for rugged use, but they can be punctured by sharp objects. Protect them with a cover or padding, store them away from sharp gear, and inspect for abrasion after each trip.
Should I mount my water tank inside or outside the vehicle?
Interior placement keeps weight low and protected from debris, but it uses cargo space. External mounting saves interior room but exposes the tank to sun, dust and impact. Check your vehicle’s payload and manufacturer guidance before deciding.
How do I keep water from going stale in a tank?
Drain and refill regularly, keep the tank out of direct sunlight, and use a sanitizing treatment as directed by the manufacturer. Avoid leaving water sitting for long periods between trips.
What is the difference between a pressurized tank and a simple container?
A pressurized tank uses built-in pressure to push water through a hose or showerhead, which is more comfortable for washing. A simple container requires gravity or manual pouring, which is fine for drinking water but less convenient for showers.
Conclusion
For most overlanders, the right water tank depends on trip length and how you plan to use the water. The Yakima RoadShower 10 Gallon suits a mounted, organized setup. The 100 Gallon bladder fits long dry stretches. The 60 Gallon TPU tank works for drinking-grade storage, while the COOZMENT jugs make a budget backup. The portable camping shower and 8 gallon pressurized tank cover trail showers and compact builds. Match capacity, materials and mounting to your vehicle and route, and always carry some backup water.
Sources
- Guidance on safe drinking water storage and emergency water supplies (cdc.gov)
- Information on drinking water quality standards and safe water handling (epa.gov)
- Recommendations on food safety and food-grade container use (usda.gov)
Related reading
- Overlanding First Aid Kit: 5 Best Picks for Remote Trips
- Overlanding Basics: Loads, Camp Power and Safety
- Nissan Frontier Overlanding Build: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
- Jeep Wrangler for Overlanding: 3 Best Picks for Trail Camping (2026)
- Jeep Gladiator Overlanding Setup: 7 Steps for Trail-Ready Builds (2026)
- Jeep Gladiator Overlanding Build: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026
About Audrey Hayes
Audrey Hayes is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our off-road trails & overlanding guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
