Going on a hike, or just deciding to relax in nature, it is important to take care in advance about the stock of water. But, what to store water in? What to choose for a campaign: special hiking water bottles or disposable plastic bottles? Most tourists prefer the usual plastic bottles. But, are they as good as they look? Or is it better to choose tourist water flasks?
Flask or Plastic Bottle
The advantages of using plastic bottles while camping:
- Price. An ordinary plastic bottle is many times cheaper than a tourist flask. Even if you lose it, you won’t have much regret, you’ll just get another one.
- Weight. An ordinary bottle is very light when empty, besides it can be crumpled so that it does not take up much space.
- It is convenient to monitor the flow of water, thanks to the transparency of the plastic.
- Any volume is always available for sale.
Disadvantages of using plastic bottles while camping:
- Short-lived. Plastic is easy enough to pierce with a sharp object, and after the fall on the rocks such a container is unlikely to remain intact.
- Lack of fasteners. Unlike hiking water flasks, the bottles do not have special fasteners, which causes some discomfort to the hiker.
- Limited functionality. The bottle only offers water transportation, as opposed to the extra features of flasks.
- It is made of plastic not intended for reusable.
The advantages of using special hiking water bottles (flasks) By flasks we mean bottles made of metal:
- Durability. Aluminum and steel travel water bottles can withstand being dropped on rocks and have an unlimited shelf life.
- Crystal clear water. All hiking water bottles are specially treated so that the water in them does not change the taste and smell for up to 14 days, unlike conventional plastic containers.
- Carabiners. With carabiners, for example, as in the models brand Karrimor, the tourist can fasten the flask on a belt or backpack. This will not only save space, but also simplify operation.
- Additional features. The main reason to use aluminum and steel canteens for camping is that you can heat water in them directly on the fire. This will help the hiker not only to get boiling water without a kettle or kettle, but also to boil it.
- Temperature Support. Of course, as long as a thermos, a metal flask will not be able to hold heat, but you will definitely have 1-2 hours with warm water. This is especially helpful before you go to sleep, because this flask turns into a mini heater and you can warm your sleeping bag.
Disadvantages of the hiking flask:
- Price. Compared with plastic containers, flasks cost many times more. However, in this case the price is fully justified.
- Weight. Metal flasks can weigh from 200 to 900 grams, depending on the volume and model. Note that steel cans are heavier than aluminum cans
To summarize:
- If you are not a professional hiker or just sometimes go out with friends in the countryside for a day or two, you are fine with regular plastic containers.
- But if you are going on an expedition or just planning a long hike in an area with difficult conditions,
then you can’t do without a metal hiking water bottle.
Buy travel flasks and hiking water bottles in the online store SportsTerritory
Is there an alternative to a metal water bottle, but lighter?
Of course there is! Especially for those who are used to counting every gram of luggage, manufacturers offer special plastic travel flasks made of high quality plastic. Reusable travel bottles are made of an innovative material called
Tritan, a new generation of copolyester, absolutely safe for health and transparent as glass, which distinguishes it from polypropylene ordinary plastic.
They have the same advantages as conventional plastic bottles, but they are highly durable and long-lasting. One of the popular manufacturers of such plastic camping water bottles is the British brand
Karrimor.
In his range you can find models with a wide neck and lid lock, as well as with a no-flush neck.
The Karrimor Tritan bottle, for example. This 750ml camping water bottle has a screw cap and a wide neck for good access. In durable Tritan material, odorless and Bisphenol-A free. Can be washed in the dishwasher. These bottles are most often used by athletes or hikers going close distances. 
This Karrimor 350 ml travel water bottle made of tritan has a secure snap-on cap with a straw. The hinged lid, extends upward, and a sturdy straw follows, while the lid is closed, the straw is bent and prevents spillage. This all-beverage bottle is perfect for kids, and it’s dishwasher safe. Odorless and Bisphenol-A free
Or this lightweight, yet sturdy and durable 1 liter Karrimor bottle (flask), for drinks made of aluminum alloy is perfect for not being without water during outdoor adventures. Bisphenol A (BPA) free with odorless stainless steel interior and plastic screw-on lid. The carabiner and backpacks attachment system allows you to strap the bottle anywhere you like.
Is there an optimal flask volume?
It is estimated that the optimal amount of water a person needs per day is 700-1000 ml. Of course, it all depends on the personal needs of the body, but in general, this amount is enough not to feel thirsty and properly consume energy.
How to use a travel canteen
The water bottle is a perfect environment for bacteria to live and breed, especially if there are chips and cracks on the surface of the bottle. That’s why you should thoroughly rinse the flask and completely dry the bottle and cork before each new use. If you take water from an unfamiliar spring, it is better to boil it on the fire before using it.
Take only the best with you!
You can buy travel flasks and hiking water bottles in the online store SportsTerritory.
