Which Water Bottle Is the Best? (Hint: It’s Not a Stanley)

We drank and drank. We brought them along while running errands, left them in the car, and let our children take them to camp. Now we can tell you all about the best water bottles on the market.

We’re very sorry to all those who invested in their Stanley Water Bottles. It might be that it does the job for you and that you love it. Most expensive sometimes means best, but not always.

For us, we felt there had to be something that really fits our water drinking needs better. When you’re running out the door with lots of bags, and you want to grab your water bottle, the tumbler-style Stanley will spill if it’s not held upright. In our experience, it absolutely is not leakproof. That was the biggest con.

Are there other water bottles that have the same “pros” but better features? We thought yes. And so, we collected them all and gave them a test run.

A while back, in this post on The Search for the Perfect Water Bottle, Esti reviewed the Simple Modern Tumbler, which is the same style as the Stanley (at a better price). And we’re still fans (more below). But if you’re looking for the ultimate keep-water-ice-cold bottle you can throw around without a drip, keep reading. 

Best Water Bottle Overall
Hydrocell Insulated Water Bottle

Why We Like It: When it comes to performance and durability, the Hydrocell is still the hardest working water bottle. It’s easy to wash and go ahead, leave it overnight–your ice will still be frozen. The triple-walled insulation is that effective. We also like the little black carrying loop that’s attached. We also like the cute paracord handle you can add on for easy carrying. The main con of the Hydrocell is that any size above 24 ounces will not fit in the cup holder. But this one doesn’t need to be left upright to keep from leaking. Read more about the Hydrocell in The Search for the Perfect Water Bottle.

Best Runner-Up
Thermoflask Insulated Water Bottle
(Not Pictured)

Why We Like It: It was a close one. Some of us preferred the Thermoflask over the Hydrocell, but the Hydrocell simply has another layer of insulation (plus an insulated cap; the Thermo flask’s lid is not insulated) and is a little more ergonomic/comfortable to hold, which gives that extra bit of an edge. Like the Hydrocell, any size above 24 ounces will likely not fit in the cup holder. Yet, it’s also super durable, super quality, won’t dent or leak, and will keep drinks super cold (or hot).

Best for Running Errands in the Car
Simple Modern Tumbler

Why We Like It: Most water bottles that are above 24 ounces will not be cup-holder friendly. Perhaps that’s why the Stanley is so popular–it is. We found the Simple Modern version, which boasts the same cup holder friendly design, to be more spill resistant than a Stanley, although at a better price (solid colors are $29.99). Read more about it in our preview review: In Search of the Perfect Water Bottle. The shape and color options are also really pretty.

Best for Sports
Camelbak Podium Chill

Why We Like It: The Camelback is the #1 bottle for when you’re active or you only have one hand available (Think: you’re on a bike). The top locks closed when it’s in your gym bag, so you can throw it in when you’re on the go without worrying about it leaking. Just open it up before you start working out and easily squeeze water into your mouth. 

Most Durable
Iron Flask Hydration Canteen

Why We Like It: This Iron Flask (bottom left) has been used and abused. One of our teenage daughters used and abused this daily for an entire school year. The ice stays frozen for about 10 hours. It’s enough for a school day, but it’s not as insulated as the other options above. We do, however, think the design is sleeker, so if you want to opt for something that looks nicer over some insulation time, this still deserves a spot on the list. 

Best for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Contigo Kids Straw Water Bottle

Why We Like It: It’s very leakproof and easy to wash (that’s an important factor for moms). Plus, kids like using it and enjoy drinking from it, and that’s the most important factor when you want to encourage good water drinking habits. 

Best for Baby Bottles
Konokyo Insulated Flask

Why We Like It: We originally used this Lululemon flask in our diaper bags to keep warm water for baby bottles when we’re on the go. We like the slim design, and we find that it’s easiest to pour water into a baby bottle from a narrow top. The Lululemon version is no longer made, so we looked for a dupe and the Konokyo is up to the task and just as cute. The 17 ounce version is the perfect amount for two bottles. You could go with one of the insulated options above, but it’s not really necessary when you just want water to maintain the perfect warmth. 

Finally, water bottles are really most practical when you have a convenient place to store them. This Water Bottle Organizer keeps them neat, so you can easily grab the one that suits your needs today. 

Drink away!