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Rothco Five Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier – Emergency Storage Jug

by Rothco
SKU 535
Original price $12.99 - Original price $12.99
Original price $12.99
$12.99
$12.99 - $12.99
Current price $12.99
Availability:
in stock, ready to be shipped

Hydration That Packs Away Flat Water is the most critical resource in any emergency or outdoor adventure, but traditional hard-sided jerry cans are bulky and waste valuable space when empty. The Rothco Five Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier solves this problem with a smart, space-saving design that folds completely flat when not in use. Whether you are prepping a "Bug Out" vehicle, setting up a camping basecamp, or stocking up for hurricane season, this carrier allows you to store massive amounts of water capacity in a drawer or backpack until you need it.

Constructed from Heavy-Duty See-Through Polyethylene, this jug is tough enough to handle the rigors of field use while allowing you to visually monitor your water levels instantly. It features a reliable On/Off Spigot that eliminates the need for lifting and pouring—simply place the carrier on a table or tailgate and dispense water directly into your cup or pot. A reinforced Top Carry Handle makes transporting the full 40+ lbs of water manageable, ensuring you can get your supply from the source to your camp with ease.

Key Features

  • 5 Gallon Capacity: Holds approximately 20 liters of water, enough to sustain one person for several days or a group for a weekend.
  • Collapsible Design: The flexible body folds flat (approx. 1 inch thick) when empty, making it easy to store in tight spaces like car trunks or rucksacks.
  • Integrated Spigot: Features a built-in faucet with an on/off switch for controlled dispensing without spills or waste.
  • Durable Construction: Made from impact-resistant polyethylene that resists punctures and cracking.
  • Visual Level Check: The transparent/cloudy clear material lets you see exactly how much water is left at a glance.
  • Portable: A sturdy molded handle ensures secure transport even when filled to max capacity.

Why It Matters In an emergency, you often need to gather water quickly. Hard plastic jugs take up too much room to keep "just in case." This carrier gives you the ability to deploy 5 gallons of storage capability instantly, without cluttering your garage or closet year-round.

Technical Overview Capacity: 5 Gallons (19L). Material: Polyethylene. Spout: On/Off Spigot. Design: Collapsible.

  • Emergency Prep: Keep several folded in your disaster kit for hurricanes or power outages.
  • Camping: Set up a hand-washing or drinking station at your campsite.
  • Road Trips: Emergency water for radiators or drinking if stranded.
  • Hiking/Hunting: Pack it in empty and fill it up at the nearest reliable water source.
  • Sports Events: easy hydration station for team sidelines.
  • Capacity: 5 Gallons / ~19 Liters
  • Material: Polyethylene (Flexible Plastic)
  • Dimensions (Collapsed): Approx. 10" x 10" x 3"
  • Spigot: Integrated On/Off Valve
  • Handle: Molded Top Carry Handle
📖 Official Resource
Step-by-Step Field Manual
Learn how to properly deploy and stage this equipment in a crisis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How flat does the Rothco 5 Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier fold when empty?

The Rothco 5 Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier features a flexible polyethylene body that folds completely flat when empty, making it ideal for space-constrained storage in bug-out bags, vehicle emergency kits, or basecamp gear. Unlike rigid water jugs, this collapsible design takes up minimal space in your pack until you need it. The reinforced construction ensures it maintains its shape when filled with up to 5 gallons, yet compresses to just a few inches thick when drained. This makes it perfect for preppers and campers who need maximum water capacity without sacrificing precious storage space.

Can the integrated spigot on this water carrier handle repeated use without leaking?

Yes, the Rothco 5 Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier's on/off spigot is designed for durability and leak-free operation across multiple deployments. The sturdy integrated spigot provides smooth, controllable water flow for drinking, cooking, or washing at camp. Unlike cheaper water carriers with aftermarket spouts, this spigot is built into the carrier's design for a secure seal. The see-through polyethylene construction also lets you monitor water levels and check for debris, ensuring clean water dispensing every time. It's built to withstand field conditions for emergency preparedness and group camping trips.

Will this 5-gallon water carrier fit in a standard vehicle trunk for emergency preparedness?

Absolutely. When empty and collapsed, the Rothco 5 Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier stores flat in vehicle trunks, under seats, or in emergency kits. Its lightweight 1-pound construction and collapsible design make it one of the most vehicle-friendly emergency water solutions available. When filled to its full 5-gallon capacity (approximately 40 pounds), the reinforced top carry handle allows for easy transport from your vehicle to your campsite or emergency shelter. The durable polyethylene construction withstands temperature fluctuations in vehicle storage, making it reliable for year-round emergency preparedness.

How does the Rothco collapsible water carrier compare to rigid 5-gallon jugs for basecamp use?

The Rothco 5 Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier offers the same 5-gallon capacity as rigid jugs but with superior portability and storage efficiency. While rigid jugs take up constant space even when empty, this collapsible carrier folds flat for easy packing. The see-through polyethylene lets you monitor water levels just like clear rigid containers, but weighs significantly less at 1 pound empty. The integrated spigot provides the same controlled dispensing as rigid jugs, but the flexible design is more forgiving in rough terrain. For group camping trips and emergency preparedness where space is premium, this collapsible design outperforms traditional rigid water storage.

Is the polyethylene material in this water carrier safe for long-term water storage?

The Rothco 5 Gallon Collapsible Water Carrier is constructed from durable polyethylene, a material commonly used for water storage applications. The see-through design allows you to visually inspect water quality and monitor for any contamination. For emergency preparedness, this carrier is ideal for transporting and short-to-medium term water storage at basecamps or emergency shelters. The integrated spigot minimizes contamination risk by reducing the need to open the top. For extended storage, we recommend rotating water supplies regularly and storing in cool, dark locations to maintain freshness, following standard emergency water storage best practices.

Veteran Owned & Operated

Retired Army First Sergeant