Liquid Death

When you're miles from the nearest tap, hauling a heavy plastic bottle or a bulky hydration bladder can feel like a drag. Canned water has emerged as a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts: it's lightweight, infinitely recyclable, and far less likely to burst or leak in your pack. But not all canned waters are created equal. Some are designed for everyday convenience, while others are built to survive a rugged trail. In this guide, we'll break down the best canned water brands for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures—focusing on portability, durability, and environmental impact.

Why Choose Canned Water for the Outdoors?

Before we dive into the brands, let's look at why canned water is a smart choice for hikers and campers. First, aluminum cans are significantly lighter than glass bottles and often lighter than equivalent plastic bottles. They also chill faster in a stream or cooler, which means you get refreshing, cold water sooner. Most importantly, aluminum is infinitely recyclable without quality loss, making it a much more sustainable option than single-use plastic. According to the Aluminum Association, recycling a can saves 95% of the energy needed to make new aluminum from raw materials. That's a win for you and the planet.

Key Features to Look for in Outdoor Canned Water

Not every canned water brand is designed for the trail. Here’s what to consider when choosing:

• Durability: Look for cans with a thicker wall or a reinforced seam—especially if you're carrying them in a pack with sharp gear.
• Size and portability: Standard 12 oz cans are great for day hikes, but for longer trips, consider 16 oz or 24 oz options to reduce the number of cans you need.
• BPA-free lining: Most modern cans use a BPA-free epoxy liner, but it's worth double-checking the brand's packaging.
• Easy-open lids: Some brands now offer resealable or screw-top lids, which are a huge plus for multi-day trips where you don't want to finish a whole can at once.

Top Canned Water Brands for Hiking and Camping

1. Liquid Death: The Punk-Rock Choice for Adventurers

Liquid Death has built a cult following by packaging mountain-sourced, still and sparkling water in infinitely recyclable aluminum cans. What sets Liquid Death apart is its oversized 19.2 oz "Tallboy" cans—perfect for long hikes where you need more than a sip. The cans are also BPA-free and feature a rugged, matte finish that resists scratches. If you're looking for a canned water brand that's as tough as your trail, Liquid Death is a top contender. (Note: While Liquid Death offers a variety of flavors, their plain still water is ideal for outdoor adventures.)

2. Open Water: Sustainability Meets the Trail

Open Water is another excellent option for hikers. Their 16 oz cans are slightly taller and narrower than standard cans, making them easier to grip with sweaty hands. Open Water uses a BPA-free liner and sources its water from a protected aquifer in the Sierra Nevada range. The company also donates 1% of sales to water-related charities. For day hikes or short overnighters, Open Water's cans are a reliable, eco-friendly choice.

3. PathWater: The Ultra-Light Option

PathWater is known for its sleek, reusable aluminum bottles, but they also offer single-use canned water in 16 oz sizes. Their cans are made from 100% recycled aluminum and feature a resealable cap—a rarity in the canned water world. This makes PathWater ideal for multi-day trips where you want to ration your water. The cans are also slightly lighter than standard aluminum, shaving off a few grams per can from your pack weight.

4. JUST Water: Plant-Based Packaging

JUST Water takes a slightly different approach: their 16 oz bottles are made from 82% renewable resources (paper and plant-based plastic), but they also offer a line of 100% aluminum cans for the outdoors. The cans are lightweight and feature a wide opening for easy drinking. JUST Water is a great choice if you're looking for a brand that prioritizes both sustainability and convenience.

5. Boxed Water Is Better: A Different Take

While not strictly canned, Boxed Water Is Better uses paper-based cartons that are 100% recyclable and made from renewable materials. They're lighter than aluminum and easier to crush down after use—perfect for packing out your trash. Their 16 oz cartons are a solid alternative for hikers who want a flat, packable container that won't dent or leak.

Comparing Canned Water Brands: A Quick Table

>Camping

Brand	Size Options	Key Feature	Best For
Liquid Death	16.9 oz, 19.2 oz	Tallboy cans, rugged finish	Long hikes, backpacking
Open Water	16 oz	Ergonomic shape, Sierra Nevada source	Day hikes
PathWater	16 oz	Resealable cap, 100% recycled aluminum	Multi-day trips
JUST Water	16 oz	Wide opening, plant-based options
Boxed Water	16 oz	Paper carton, packable flat	Ultralight hiking

How to Pack Canned Water for Your Next Hike

Once you've chosen your brand, packing them correctly is key. Here are a few tips:

• Distribute weight: Place cans in the middle of your pack, close to your back, to maintain balance.
• Use a stuff sack: A small, padded stuff sack will prevent cans from denting each other and damaging your gear.
• Bring a can opener: While most cans have pull-tabs, a small can opener can be a lifesaver if a tab breaks. (This is rare with modern cans.)
• Plan for disposal: Always pack out your empty cans. Crush them flat to save space in your trash bag.

Environmental Impact: Why Aluminum Beats Plastic on the Trail

We've already touched on this, but it's worth repeating: aluminum cans are a far better choice for the environment than plastic bottles. Plastic bottles take hundreds of years to decompose and often end up in oceans and rivers. Aluminum, on the other hand, can be recycled indefinitely. Plus, the energy savings from recycling a single can can power a TV for three hours. For hikers who care about leaving no trace, choosing canned water is an easy way to reduce your footprint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring canned water on a plane for a hiking trip?

Yes, but only in checked luggage. The TSA allows canned water in checked bags without a volume limit, but for carry-on bags, the 3-1-1 rule applies (containers must be 3.4 oz or less).

Is canned water safe to drink after being stored in a hot car?

Aluminum cans can withstand higher temperatures than plastic without leaching chemicals, but it's best to store them in a cool, shaded place. If a can is bulging or leaking, discard it.

How do I recycle cans on the trail?

Crush them flat and place them in a designated trash bag. Some trailheads have recycling bins, but it's safest to pack them out and recycle at home.

Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Canned Water for Your Adventure

The best canned water for hiking ultimately depends on your specific needs. For long, strenuous hikes where you need to stay hydrated for hours, a larger can like Liquid Death’s 19.2 oz Tallboy is ideal. For shorter day hikes, Open Water’s ergonomic 16 oz cans offer great grip and portability. And if you’re on a multi-day expedition, PathWater’s resealable cans let you conserve water without waste.

At the end of the day, every can of water you choose over a plastic bottle is a small victory for the planet. So next time you hit the trail, grab a pack of canned water and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a lighter, more sustainable adventure.

Ready to upgrade your hiking hydration? Explore our selection of premium canned water options to find the perfect fit for your next outdoor trip. Whether you’re a day hiker or a seasoned backpacker, we’ve got the portable water solution you need.