The Best Insulated Water Bottles of 2024

RTIC is a well-respected player in the cooler and drinkware market for offering high-quality, durable products at a more reasonable price than some of the other big brands. Its Vacuum Insulated Bottle ($20 for the 32-ounce size) hits the mark for simple quality at an unbeatable price.

The RTIC Bottle shares many similarities with comparable models from Hydro Flask and YETI, like stainless steel construction, double-wall vacuum insulation, and a powder-coated protective finish. We’re also big fans of the flip-top lid that lets you drink from the bottle without removing the entire lid. In our years of hydrating at home, at the office, in the car, or out in nature, we can’t tell you how many spills we’ve had with other bottles from accidentally leaving the lid partially open. It’s still possible to leak a little out of the flip-top lid, but you won’t be drenching yourself like you would with a completely open bottle.

While the RTIC Bottle looks and performs similarly to the Hydro Flask and YETI models, it doesn’t feel quite as heavy-duty and indestructible. That said, we haven’t experienced any quality or durability issues in our testing. Also, remember that you can buy two RTIC Bottles for the same price as one of the others, which is why it earns our pick as the best value option.

At larger volumes, many insulated water bottles won’t fit in a car cup holder. The Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler ($45) solves this problem with a tapered bottom designed for cup holder compatibility, even in the 40-ounce size. Fill up this tumbler before your next road trip, and you’ll stay hydrated for the long haul. 

The 3-position lid has a reusable straw for sipping and a wider mouth opening for chugging. We especially liked using the straw while driving; it makes it easy to keep your eyes on the road while enjoying your beverage. It’s worth noting that the rotating mechanism on the lid does not seal, and this lid is not leakproof. If you are looking for a bottle to throw in your bag while on the go, this tumbler is not the ideal choice, but the CamelBak Podium Insulated Water Bottle or  YETI’s Rambler Chug Bottle would be great options.

We recently brought the Stanley Quencher on a drive into the mountains for an overnight backpacking trip. Drinking water is important before big days in the mountains, and we hit the trail feeling well-hydrated. We left the tumbler half full in the car overnight, and we were pleasantly surprised to enjoy cool water after the trip, even though the car was sitting in the sun when we returned. 

While we wouldn’t recommend this for hiking or backpacking, the Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler is our new favorite road trip companion.

YETI’s 26-ounce Rambler Bottle ($40) is another amazing insulated bottle. This one is tied with our top choice for its stainless steel construction and insulating performance. However, it weighs slightly more — although that also gives it points for durability.

Available in an impressive five different volumes, there’s bound to be a Rambler bottle for any sized adventure you might be planning. The bottle comes standard with YETI’s Chug Cap, which is about the only controversial feedback among testers — some loved the two-part narrow mouth cap, and some didn’t.

A final note — one of the best parts of buying from an established brand like YETI is the broad range of supplementing accessories available. We counted five different lid styles available for the Rambler, which makes it a super versatile bottle to match whatever hydration needs you might have. If don’t want to worry about switching lids, but want an insulated bottle that has a hybrid lid, combining both a straw and open-mouth neck, check out the Owala FreeSip.

Of all of the insulated bottles we’ve tested over the years, offerings like the Rambler consistently held up better than their counterparts, making this bottle one tough option for those who leave the kid gloves at home.

One of the things that bedevil many insulated bottles is carbonated beverages — but not the 64-ounce MiiR Growler ($60). This insulated brewtainer keeps your favorite IPA locked down, thanks to an innovative threadless lid and locking clasp that seals in freshness and carbonation.

MiiR considered all the niceties as well, incorporating a lid that locks into place in the open position so as not to impede a good pour. The Growler holds an impressive 4 pints of liquid and keeps them chilled for a long time. We will note that the rubber seal used can hold onto the scent of whatever is stored last, but this can be removed and washed separately.

One thing that sets MiiR apart from other manufacturers is the company’s ingrained global philanthropy, funded by a portion of the sales of every product. To date, MiiR has donated $3.75 million to various nonprofits, ranging from sustainable food systems to land and water protections. You can feel good knowing your Growler is doing something positive for the world.

Excellent for bringing the party with you (and keeping it chill), the MiiR Growler is the perfect choice for anyone looking to transport their brews and enjoy them, too.

The CamelBak Podium Insulated Water Bottle ($18) is designed as the optimal warm-weather cycling bottle but also works well in other sports settings. Its double-wall construction is designed to maintain cold temperatures, but the insulating properties could be improved.

Compared to a standard cycling squeeze bottle, this insulated one does way better, but in the peak summer heat, it would be nice if it kept a colder temperature for longer. The high flow rate and easy squeeze design deliver hydration efficiently, and the self-sealing cap minimizes spills — a feature that’s especially appreciated during intense rides.

During real-world testing, the Podium bottle excels in functionality. The positive lock-out feature ensures leakproof transport, but we didn’t have leaking issues even when the bottle was unlocked. Although it is made from plastic, we had no issues with water tasting like plastic even when used in the summer sun. We loved that it fit most cycling setups and all our water bottle cages. It is easy to drink from (easier than the CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle), and even when left in the open position while riding, it does not leak.

While it keeps drinks cooler for longer, they eventually reach ambient temperature during extended use. The removable internal cap plug, crucial for the on/off flow function, is prone to being lost, which could affect usability. Additionally, disassembling the top for cleaning can be challenging, requiring considerable effort and care to avoid breaking the plastic tabs. Plus, cleaning is when the internal cap plug is likely to be lost, so you need to pay attention.

Overall, the Podium offers impressive leakproof features and a decent insulating performance designed for cyclists but functional for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.

The LifeStraw Go Water Bottle ($50) is reliable for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking clean, safe hydration. Its dual-filter system effectively protects against contaminants and enhances water taste.

The heart of the LifeStraw Go Series is its Membrane Microfilter, which removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics while filtering out sand, dirt, and cloudiness. This filter can purify up to 1,000 gallons of water before needing replacement, ensuring long-term reliability. Complementing this is the Activated Carbon Filter, which improves taste by reducing chlorine and organic chemicals, though it needs replacing every two months or so.

We tested the stainless steel LifeStraw Go, although it also comes in an uninsulated plastic version. The stainless steel model stood out for its durability and double-wall vacuum insulation, keeping water refreshingly cold even on hot days. We found it nice to have a water bottle with a built-in water filtration system while on long hikes, when refilling from natural sources was required, or even while traveling to make access to clean water easier.

One limitation is the inability to filter out harmful chemicals like PFAS, which could be a concern in areas with high contamination. Despite this, the LifeStraw Go’s robust filtration, ease of use, and practical features make it a valuable tool for safe hydration during travel and outdoor adventures.

A fun and trusty water bottle is a great way to encourage your kids to stay hydrated. The 12-ounce Thermos Funtainer ($20) from Thermos is a durable, safe, and affordable bottle designed for kids of all ages. Plus, it comes with a built-in straw.

This compact and packable bottle comes in all sorts of kid-friendly colors and patterns. Though the capacity is a fairly small 12 ounces, it’s the perfect size for small hands. This bottle fits easily into most school bags and lunch boxes.

Made from BPA-free stainless steel, this bottle is both lightweight and thoroughly durable. The click-shut lid is easy to open and quite leakproof when properly closed (which was our only complaint). When tucked away with the lid closed, the Funtainer keeps liquids cold and refreshing for a full 12 hours.

Right at home in any lunch pail, the Funtainer keeps tykes hydrated all day long.

​​The CamelBak Eddy+ Water Bottle ($35) is a versatile hydration companion for various settings. Ideal for work, school, road trips, or camping, it combines insulating technology with user-friendly features.

One of its most impressive aspects is the redesigned bite valve, which allows for 25% more water per sip, making it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day. Even with this feature, we found it difficult to get water through the straw without a decent amount of effort. If you want a great bottle that’s easier to drink out of, especially during active pursuits like cycling, give the CamelBak Podium Insulated Water Bottle a shot.

Camelbak claims that the Eddy+ Water Bottle keeps drinks cold for up to 32 hours, although we found it only lasted about half that time, especially when used in outdoor summer settings. Whether you’re in a long meeting, on a hot hike, or camping, this bottle still has a decent ability to maintain temperature, and it prevents condensation, which is a major plus.

One of the best features is that it is leak-proof and spill-proof, and the bottle is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Additionally, the Eddy+ is easy to carry, compatible with other CamelBak products, and is backed by CamelBak’s Got Your Bak Lifetime Guarantee.

When it comes to insulated water bottles, it’s tough to imagine anything new under the sun. But with a spout design that impressed us right out of the gate, the Owala FreeSip ($33) proves that there’s still innovation to be done.

While many other bottles have interchangeable lids that offer different drinking methods, the FreeSip spout is a bit of a hybrid, combining a straw and an open-mouth neck. You have the choice of sipping or chugging. The whole affair is protected by a stout flip-top lid, and in testing, we really enjoyed drinking from this bottle.

Backed up with a triple-layer vacuum construction, the FreeSip has all the tech to do what insulated water bottles do best, and we had no problem keeping our water cool all day. Our only slight issue was with the carry loop, which has a detent (or catch) for locking it down in the closed position but not in the up position.

Other than that small flaw, it’s perfect for drinking on the go. The FreeSip is high on our list of best water bottles on the market today.

Borrowing from the company’s successes in the realm of thermoses, Stanley has produced a great insulated bottle with the IceFlow Flip Straw Water Bottle ($32). We don’t have too many straw-drinking lids in our review, but this bottle executed it perfectly.

The contoured bottle shape fits well in our hands, and the oversized bail on top meant we weren’t scrambling to keep a hold of it. Because it’s a straw bottle, you’re limited to only using cold liquids in it. Our biggest complaint, however, was the rubber seal is particularly deep inside the lid and not ideal for washing.

With a good pedigree, the IceFlow bottle comes from a long line of keeping hot things hot and cold things cold and is the perfect fit for walking and drinking on the go.

Hydro Flask’s new Lightweight Trail Series bottles have really won us over. If it weren’t for the price, this bottle might be in our top three.

The Lightweight Wide Mouth ($50) weighs just 11 ounces, has a perforated strap to keep weight down, and is designed to work with most backcountry water filters. Hydro Flask did some metal wizardry on this bottle, giving it tapered walls that are thicker on the bottom for durability, and thinner on top for weight savings.

Compared to the Wide Mouth Hydro Flask, we did note some diminished ability to keep drinks cold for as long, but the difference is small. When you’re counting ounces, the Lightweight Wide Mouth comes in clutch.

This Klean Kanteen bottle ($45) has a wide mouth, is vacuum-insulated, and holds 32 ounces of your drink of choice. It’s more expensive than others on this list but has everything you need: a cap and fold-down carry handle, a stainless steel interior, and insulation to keep liquids hot for 24 hours and iced for an incredible 83!

We were especially impressed with the thought put into the lid design. Using what Kleen Kanteen calls its TK Closure, the internal threads of the bottle are more like rows of bumps, meaning fewer nooks and crannies to clean. The lid is also fully vacuum insulated and sports a stainless steel bottom, meaning your water only sees steel on the inside of this bottle.

Some testers commented they didn’t like the ergonomics of the lid. We noted that it’s slightly narrower and shorter than other wide-mouth bottles on this list, so you might prefer the Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle, our overall pick, instead. But if that’s no bother to you, the Kleen Kanteen TKWide bottle could be for you.

Purist uses a glass interior coating to combat the odors and flavors some don’t like in their stainless steel bottles. Meanwhile, the exterior sports the tried-and-true stainless steel construction for durability. The brand’s medium size, the Mover 18-ounce bottle ($50), has a convenient sipping cap.

We also liked testing the 32-ounce, wide-mouth size (the same insulation and materials, just holds more), although the 18-ounce fits much better in cupholders, packs, and bags. We like this brand’s muted colors and professional aesthetic.

Unfortunately, we did find the Purist Mover Bottle to be a bit lacking when it came to scratch prevention. With no powder coat finish, scratches showed up easily in the painted finish. For the price, this was a bit disappointing. If you’re looking for a more durable option, you’ll want to look at YETI’s 26-ounce Rambler Bottle. For those who place taste above all else, however, the Mover bottle makes no exceptions.