Best Collapsible Water Bottles Of 2024 (Ultralight)

HomeBackpackingBest Collapsible Water Bottles Of 2024 (Ultralight)

When you’re out on a hike, every ounce counts. A collapsible water bottle is a great option for backpackers and hikers. Over the year of hiking and backpacking, collapsible water bottles and hydration bladders have been our best friends to carry and consume water efficiently. We like them as they save us plenty of space in our pack as we drink the water, unlike traditional water bottles.

Do they work? Are these bottles efficient enough to carry water without leaking? What kind of collapsible water bottles are suitable for backpacking?

A flexible water bottle during hiking
A flexible water bottle during hiking

We have shortlisted the best collapsible water bottles, including Platypus, Hydrapak, and Vapur, based on our experience, rigorous use, and testing. These bottles come in different styles, from plastic to hard materials models. They are ultralight and collapsible designs. Let’s start with the reviews.

Best Overall Collapsible Water Bottle

1. Platypus SoftBottles with Closure Cap

Overall, the Platypus SoftBottles with Closure Cap stands out as the premier collapsible bottle option we have found, which performed brilliantly on all the performance parameters, such as weight, packability, and design. It is impressively lightweight, at just 0.8 ounces, rolls up quickly, and has no plastic taste at all.

Platypus Soft Bottles with Closure Cap
Platypus Soft Bottles with Closure Cap

We really liked the narrow structure in the middle that allowed us to hold it easily to drink as well as to refill it. The mouth is wide enough for easy cleaning and refilling but a little tighter to put the filter inside. That said, we loved the ease of drinking out of this bottle after removing the closure cap, which ensures it does not leak inside your backpack.

This, however, is available in both the closure cap style and the non-closure cap style. In hot weather, you can even put ice cubs inside the bottle easily, which keeps it cold even though it’s not insulated. However, insulated bottles are much heavier, so they come with added weight.

You must fully release the air to collapse it properly when rolling up. This bottle is an excellent choice for almost all kinds of outdoor adventures and travel.

The durability of this bottle is a concern, which is the case with most flexible bottles, as over the years, rolling up again and again, they start cracking a little bit. All in all, this is a fantastic flexible, reusable, and versatile flexible water bottle for the money.

Pros

  • Budget Friendly
  • Lightweight
  • Flexible
  • Versatile
  • Easy cleaning
  • Easy to drink

Cons

  • Some durability Issues

Best Budget Friendly Option

2. Vapur Solid Flexible Water Bottle

Vapur Solid Flexible Bottle is our favorite that we have used on various backpack trips, and it has never disappointed us. You get a quality and ultralight option on a budget-friendly option.

Vapur Solid Flexible Water Bottle - with Carabiner
Vapur Solid Flexible Water Bottle – with Carabiner

Vapur is a well-known brand for producing quality bottles, and this actually looks in this bottle. You can even freeze it; it won’t break like cheap plastic after water freezes. With its attachable hook, I usually attach it to my backpack instead of putting inside. This attractive bottle comes in different colors and capacities, enough for most daily or weekend hiking needs.

Its flexible body is durable and approximately 85% lighter than a regular water bottle. I like its spills or leaks-proof cap, even when walking on the trail, it does not leak. The design is superb that collapses more quickly than the majority of low-quality bottles.

You can also open the bottle wide mouth by removing the upper cap. It makes the bottle super easy to clean and refill. Additionally, it’s BPA-free, and It did not produce any bad smell even when it was new.

The hook is durable, and you can easily attach it to your backpack. It won’t come out of the bottle even if you are on a bumpy trail. However, the bottom corners are a bit sharp instead of round. I have to pack it appropriately to avoid damaging my stuff. It’s not dangerous, though. It looks modern and sleek. Overall this is a budget-friendly, ultralight, and easily foldable water bottle we recommend.

Read Full Review: Vapur Wide Mouth Anti-Bottle Review

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Versatile
  • Leakproof

Cons

  • Not very durable

Best For Backpacking

3. Platypus Platy 2-Liter Flexible Bottle

If you are looking for a big-size flexible bottle, we have another one on our top list from Platypus. Platypus Platy 2-Liter Flexible Bottle weighs just 1.3 ounces and carries 2 liters of water.

The size is a little larger than their Platypus SoftBottles(one-liter size), but this one also does not take space either. You can fit it in your pocket after rolling it up when it’s empty.

Platypus Platy 2-Liter Flexible Water Bottle
Platypus Platy 2-Liter Flexible Water Bottle

We liked that it also comes in BPA-free and phthalate-free material. So it does not smell or taste bad either. Its base expands when filled so it stands upright.

The flexible body makes it easier to hold and fill the water directly from the streams without slipping from the hand. It is leak-proof, like Platypus SoftBottles, so you can put it in your backpack without worrying about leakage. But don’t put it under heavy gear. These bottles are more prone to wear and tear than hard bottles.

It is compatible with all the Platypus drink tubes and caps. Plus, you can also use a water filter with it. Also, this bottle is lightweight and does not leak. However, it takes a bit longer to dry out after cleaning than other water bottles.

Another significant drawback of this bottle is that its cap is not attached to the bottle. So, it increases the chance of losing it in the backcountry. All in all, this sturdy and durable bottle is a good choice for outdoor adventures like hiking, backpacking, and traveling.

Pros

  • Great build quality
  • Reliable outdoor gear brand
  • Huge capacity
  • Incredibly lightweight
  • Durable
  • Leakproof

Cons

  • Not so easy to clean

Best With Water Filter

4. Survivor Collapsible Bottle with Filter

The Survivor Collapsible Bottle with Filter is our top choice for backcountry adventures due to its convenient built-in filter. The design is very well thought out, especially for backpackers and outdoor adventures.

Survivor Filter Squeeze Water Filter Kit with bottles
Survivor Filter Squeeze Water Filter Kit with bottles

It’s not easy to carry enough water in the backpack, so having a filter is a great advantage to drink directly from the streams. It’s lightweight and compact, so you can easily take it in your pack. The Collapsible water containers look very durable and handy for extended backpacking trips.

The filter is the most notable feature that comes with the collapsible water bottle compared to other bottles we reviewed.

It did not taste bad either, like the other water bottle. Unlike water filters, this water system means you don’t have to lie down and drink water from the stream.

However, there are a few challenges that most backpackers face. Squeezing the water from the filter to the container takes time and effort. It takes time to properly clean and dry, which is time-consuming and becomes a headache on the trail unless you can pack it separately.

We really hate that we cannot use this handy filter with our other water bottles since it works with these containers only.

The filter worked very well and removed the odor and impurities from the water, as we did not feel any taste. But try it out at home to get an idea of how to use it and to compare the taste with home water.

Pros

  • Ultralight
  • Comes with water filter
  • No bad taste
  • Easy to clean
  • Simple design

Cons

  • Squeezing water through filter is bit hard

Best Of The Rest

5. Hydrapak Stash Collapsible Bottle

Do you like classic water bottle designs? If so, a Hydrapak Stash water bottle is an excellent choice. It’s sleek, lightweight, and looks like a hard bottle but more flexible than the hard bottle.

Hydrapak Stash Collapsible Backpacking Water Bottle
Hydrapak Stash Collapsible Backpacking Water Bottle

To collapse this water bottle, you need to twist and compress it, unlike the Vapur Solid, which can be rolled up for collapsing. I wouldn’t say I liked it, as rolling up seemed more comfortable and easier for me.

It comes in two sizes, 750ml, and 1 liter, that are BPA-free and dishwasher-safe. The base of this water bottle is broad and sturdy that remains intact and leak-free even when left open.

However, it builds condensation because it’s not an insulated water bottle. It becomes a little tricky to use, especially during humid weather. Additionally, its durability is a concern as it falls short compared to other water bottles we have reviewed.

Another drawback of this collapsible water bottle is that it requires both hands to drink or pour out water. Additionally, some smell and taste will occur during the initial few weeks of use.

Pros

  • 11 color options
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Durable
  • Leakproof
  • Carry strap
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • A touch expensive

6. Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle

Do you need a versatile, flexible water bottle? If so, the Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle is an excellent choice due to its design, flexibility, and ease of use. Unlike the Hydrapak Stash water bottle, it rolls up quickly, even when you are walking.

Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle
Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle

The cap is fixed with the bottle so it won’t get lost in the backcountry accidentally. It’s freezable and dishwasher-safe, handy for home and outdoor use.
This bottle is made from silicone material, which is BPA-free. However, it tends to attract dirt, which can be pretty annoying. When used the first few times, this bottle has a distinct rubber hose taste.

You will have to wash it properly before using it. But it will take time to get rid of the bad taste fully, and we did not like it. It also takes a little bit extra effort to fully roll up and collapse this bottle.

It uses the standard mouth opening rather than wide, which makes it easier to drink while on the go. Most users praised the customer service of Nomader, which is an excellent advantage for hassle-free replacements or refunds.

This comes in various beautiful colors, making it a good daily-use bottle. However, this is suitable mainly for travel, backpacking, or hiking trips instead of daily use.

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Pros

  • 11 color options
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Durable
  • Leakproof
  • Carry strap
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons

  • A touch expensive

7. Hydrapak Stow Collapsible Water Bottle

Hydrapak Stow is a perfect flexible bottle whether you go camping, hiking, or outing in the backcountry. We are impressed that this is sustainable, packable, and ultra-light, allowing easy drinking water on the go.

Hydrapak Stow - Collapsible Water Bottle
Hydrapak Stow – Collapsible Water Bottle

The Hydrapak Stow Flexible Bottle is the best trail companion as it fits easily in the pocket, fanny pack, or jacket pocket. We really liked its spill-proof nozzle, that not only keeps the nozel area clean but also keeps water secure inside the bottle. Moreover, the bail handle is an added advantage to easily attach to the backpack and drink water without opening the pack.

The bottle is water filter compatible, which makes it ideal for backpackers to refill the water from natural resources like streams and rivers and then drink directly from the bottle by the water filter. Like, the Sawyer Squeeze Mini or the Micro version.

If we talk about its ease of use, it’s pretty easy to fill, compress, and roll up in seconds. Another best thing is that it does not leak as the lid closes tightly even when you collapse it. However, the mouthpiece gives little taste of the plastic despite washing, especially when it’s new.

The only thing we would change about this water bottle is the mouthpiece. This is a budget-friendly option but less durable and functional than Platypus SoftBottles, but that is expensive. If budget is your concern, you can opt for this water bottle.

Pros

  • Compatible with the water filter
  • Easy to carry
  • Top cap
  • Compactible design
  • doesn’t leak

Cons

  • Bit plastic taste at the start

How To Choose Collapsible Water Bottle: Buying Guide

After extensive and rigorous use of flexible bottles, we have written this guide to help you better understand the process of buying a quality collapsible bottle.

We considered and compared various performance parameters such as weight, capacity, mouth opening, plastic taste, storage space, BPA-free, cup holder, etc.

Material

No compromise on health. Looks for a bottle that is designed from quality BPA-free material. Plastic and material need to be safe for long-term usage so it doesn’t affect health. Remember that not all BPA-free products are food safe.

BPA-Free Flexible water bottle
BPA-Free Flexible water bottle

Around 70% BPA-Free products still emit unhealthy chemicals in food or water. Cheaply made plastic bottles, especially single-use, are harmful, primarily if they are used for an extensive period.

However, some companies are committed to making BPA-Free bottles for long-term use. They mainly use BPA-free silicone products to design the bottles. Also, read the label to see if the water bottle is fit for hot and cold liquids.

That said, it is tough to eliminate BPA-free factors in the material entirely, but buying quality bottles from reputable companies committed to designing safe-to-use products is a great way to minimize this factor. Therefore, we created this list by giving good scores to BPA-free bottles.

Capacity

Capacity is something that you decide based on the hiking duration, trail length, availability of water on the trail, temperature, etc. One to two liters collapsible bottles are common that most backpackers choose.

Most of the top bottles that we reviewed are available in different sizes. We usually take a hydration bladder and a flexible bottle on extended hikes depending on the availability of clean water on the trails.

Collapsible Water Bottle With Filter and bladder
Collapsible Water Bottle With Filter and bladder

If you are concerned about the extra water weight, take a backpacking water filter. This saves us plenty of space as we don’t have to carry more than a couple of liters if water is available on the trail.

That said, collapsible water bottles are compact, packable, and take up relatively little space. So size reduces after every ounce you drink from them. You can opt for a bottle with a larger capacity. But as mentioned, it depends on all the factors we wrote above.

Durability

Collapsible water bottles are made from soft, flexible materials like silicone or BPA-free plastics. You can squeeze and fold them, unlike traditional bottles. However, this compromises their durability compared to hard water bottles.

In general, flexible bottles are less durable than hard water bottles. But quality loose water bottles like Platypus SoftBottles, and Vapur Solid Flexible Bottles have much better durability than cheaply made bottles.

Flexible bottles beat the hard bottles in terms of convenience and space-saving functionality. Yet, these are more prone to wear and tear due to their plastic nature.

Make sure you fold them after releasing the air and slowly toward the upward direction. Taking little extra care of these bottles, you can easily extend the life of these bottles.

Mouth Opening

Mouth opening is crucial to look for as it impacts how easily you can clean or refill the water. A bottle with a wide opening mouth makes cleaning effortless and convenient filling. But this also increases the chance of leakage.

Mouth Opening Vapur Solid Flexible Bottle
Mouth Opening Vapur Solid Flexible Bottle

Look for a bottle with a reasonable mouth opening and no leakage risk. Some bottles, like Vapur Solid Flexible Water Bottle, provides two mouth opening, one small to drink the water and another bigger one to refill and clean quickly.

Summary

Collapsible water bottles are good at saving space and are much lighter than hard ones. We shortlisted the collapsible water bottles based on our research, comprehensive analysis, and personal experience.

We considered material quality, durability, leak-proof design, and ease of cleaning while preparing the list. Additionally, we explained how to choose these bottles with our comprehensive buying guide.

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