Best Reusable Water Bottles for Hiking, Kids, and Everyday Use
The best reusable water bottle is one you will actually carry, refill, clean, and use regularly. We tested bottles for portability, insulation, drinking comfort, durability, leak resistance, and sustainability to help you find the right option for everyday hydration, short trips, hikes, and school days.
Best sustainable reusable water bottle: Ocean Bottle Original
Ocean Bottle Original, 17 ounces, $42
- Available in more than 10 colors and three sizes
- Made from 90 percent recycled stainless steel and BPA-free
- Ocean Bottle funds the recovery of 25 pounds of ocean-bound plastic for every bottle sold
- More expensive than some competitors
The Ocean Bottle is one of the smallest water bottles I own, but it is still the bottle I reach for most often on hikes and short trips. It is made from 90 percent recycled stainless steel, comes in more than 10 colors, and is available in 17-, 26-, and 34-ounce sizes.
The 17-ounce version has a screw-cap lid with a top section that unscrews partway, making it easy to fill and add ice. You can remove both lid sections and turn the bottle upside down to use it as a leakproof cup. A silicone carrying loop makes it convenient to transport.
The bottle is expensive, but its sustainability program may make it a more appealing choice than buying another disposable or trend-driven bottle. For every bottle sold, Ocean Bottle funds the recovery of 25 pounds of ocean-bound plastic.
—Kat Melk
Best recyclable reusable water bottle: Path Refillable Water Bottle
Path Refillable Water Bottles, about $5 each
- Inexpensive and lightweight
- Available in multiple styles and water options
- Easy to dent
- Refills can develop a stronger metallic taste
If your child frequently loses their water bottle—or if you avoid carrying one because you expect it to disappear—Path may be a practical solution. These lightweight, refillable aluminum bottles cost about $5 each and can be purchased prefilled with distilled, carbonated, flavored, or alkaline water.
The bottles come in solid and ombré colors, seasonal patterns, and collaborations such as the state collection. Refill the bottle until it is lost or too dented to use, then recycle it and replace it. The bottles are marked to show how many times they have been refilled.
Some children with sensory needs may dislike the slightly metallic taste that becomes more noticeable after repeated refills. Path is best for people who want an inexpensive, recyclable option rather than a long-lasting insulated bottle.
—Kat Melk
Reusable water bottles to consider
Owala FreeSip Twist, $30
The insulated Owala FreeSip keeps water cold throughout the day, including during Midwestern summers. Its built-in lid lets you drink through the straw or use the chug spout, making it versatile for everyday use. The lid is dishwasher safe, although careful hand washing is recommended.
Owala also offers a wide selection of bright color combinations. The twist-cap version works well for daily use. The classic version has a push-button lock that I found somewhat flimsy and prone to jamming. Although the twist cap feels more secure against spills, it is easier to lose than the included lid on the FreeSip Sway.
—Butaina Choculane
Bentgo Lift Chug Lid, $30
The ring-shaped handle above the spout initially seemed awkward, but it proved comfortable to hold and also works as a locking mechanism. The push-button lid under the handle functions well, although drinking from the bottle can feel slightly awkward because the plastic connector gets in the way.
The bottle has triple-layer insulation and BPA- and PFAS-free materials. Its wide mouth makes filling and cleaning easy, and the bottle is dishwasher safe. It comes in appealing colors, but its wide shape does not fit standard cup holders.
—Alexis Berger
Fellow Carter Carry, $45
Fellow’s Carter Carry is a tall, slim insulated water bottle with a square metal carrying loop that fits comfortably around three fingers. The brand claims it can keep water cold for 24 hours, but my bottle reached room temperature by the end of a long day.
The bottle’s slightly tapered mouth helps prevent spills and makes it comfortable to drink from. A ceramic interior coating helps water retain its original taste. If you like a minimalist design and want an insulated bottle that feels natural to drink from, the Carter Carry is a strong option.
—Martin Szysmar
Takeya Luminous Sports Kids Bottle, $30
Takeya Luminous Sports Kids Bottle
Takeya’s glow-in-the-dark bottle is designed to make hydration more fun, although only the band glows—not the neon paint splatters. It is a durable, triple-insulated bottle with a large carrying handle that works well for children’s hands.
The slim 18-ounce size fits in the side pockets of two children’s school backpacks. One drawback is that air can leak from the straw and produce a whistling sound while drinking. Still, its durable construction and kid-friendly handle make it worth considering for school and activities.
—Adrian So
How to choose the best reusable water bottle
- For sustainability: Choose the Ocean Bottle if recycled materials and ocean-plastic recovery are priorities.
- For children who lose bottles: Path offers a lightweight, inexpensive, recyclable option.
- For cold water: Owala, Bentgo, Fellow, and Takeya offer insulated designs.
- For easy cleaning: Look for a wide mouth or dishwasher-safe lid.
- For portability: Consider the bottle’s carrying loop, shape, weight, and compatibility with cup holders and backpack pockets.
Source: www.wired.com