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Best Water Bottles for Travel and School 2024

*Updated July 2024*

I have had my fair share of leaky, difficult-to-wash, or bulky bottles that have caused me more frustration than hydration. But easy-to-access drinking water is a must, whether you’re spending long hours in the classroom or exploring the national parks. I’ve scoured my cupboards and the internet to find the top water bottles for you and your family – from adults down to toddlers. Let me save you some pain and help you find the best water bottles for travel and school.

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Water Bottles for College Students and Teens

Basic Requirements:

  • Stylish
  • Easy to drink from
  • Slim fit for backpacks and cup holders

Top Pick

Owala Free Sip, 24 oz

This is my dream water bottle. It really does check all my boxes, but can be a bit pricey. Keep your eyes peeled for sales or offers. I use the non-insulated version because it is much lighter to carry around. It’s great for hiking in Yellowstone, kayaking in Glacier, or running errands all day (which is how I use it most).

Pros:

  • Great size, but not too bulky
  • Spout and straw drinking options
  • Easy to carry or clip handle
  • Insulated

Cons:

  • Pricey
  • Cup portion is dishwasher safe, but the finish will diminish

Runner Up

Contigo Ashland 2.0

A fantastic option if insulation isn’t required. Sometimes I prefer non-insulated bottles because they are much lighter weight.

Pros:

  • Mouthpiece is covered when not in use
  • Lid locks so no accidental spilling
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Decent price point

Cons:

  • Straw detaches and can be lost
  • Not insulated

Honorable Mention

Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle

Nalgene is a classic bottle and is super easy to use and clean. Win-win-win.

Pros:

  • Well-established, quality company
  • All pieces are attached – so no losing straws, lids, etc.
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons:

  • Can feel bulky/too wide if you get the larger sizes
  • Not insulated

Water Bottles for Elementary School Kids

Basic Requirements:

  • Easy to clean
  • Durable
  • Good size for kids
  • Leak resistant

Top Pick

Contigo Aubrey Kids 20 oz
Contigo is a pretty respected brand (at least by me), and this + the Owala Kids Flip are my current favorite bottles for my kids.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Reasonable Value
  • Mouthpiece is covered when not drinking
  • Two pieces to clean, no lost parts

Cons:

  • No insulation
  • Mouthpiece can get worn if kids chew on them

Runner Up

koodee Water Bottle-16 oz Stainless Steel Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Wide Mouth Water Bottle

If your kids demand cool drinks, this is my top pick for an insulated, stainless steel bottle in a kid-friendly size.

  • Twist mouthpiece option helps it stay leakproof
  • Keeps drinks cold or warm as needed
  • No straw to lose or specialty clean

Cons:

  • Cup portion is hand-wash only

Honorable Mention

Thermoflask Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Stainless Stee

These are a household favorite because they are easy to fill, drink, and carry. I have noticed a little leakage and my kids often skip adding a straw and just tilt the bottle back to get water from the spout.

PROS

  • Keeps drinks cool for longer
  • Stainless steel is very durable (but does dent)
  • Leak resistant

CONS

  • Removable straw (easy to lose)
  • Heavy when full
  • Make leak a little if upside down in your bag (talking from personal experience…)

Water Bottles for Preschool and Toddlers

Top Pick

Contigo Aubrey Kids 14 oz

All of the same pros and cons as the 20 oz, but a little smaller for younger kiddos.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Reasonable Value
  • Mouthpiece is covered when not drinking
  • Two pieces to clean, no lost parts

Cons:

  • No insulation
  • Mouthpiece can get worn if kids chew on them

Runner Up

Owala Kids Flip Insulation Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, Locking Lid Water Bottle, Kids Water Bottle, Great for Travel, 14 Oz

Compact and insulated – your little ones can carry one of these bottles independently in their own pack! A mini version of my favorite bottle.

Pros:

  • Insulated to keep drinks cold
  • Durable
  • Little to no leaking

Cons:

  • Cup portion is hand wash only
  • Insulated bottles are naturally heavier to carry
  • Higher price

Honorable Mention

Zak Designs Kids Water Bottle with Straw and Built-in Carrying Loop, 16 oz

Similar to the Contigo Aubrey, but with a detached straw and a cheaper price tag.

Pros:

  • Lower price point
  • Covered mouthpiece
  • Easy carry or clip handle

Cons:

  • Silicone mouthpiece (some kids chew through them)
  • Separate straw that can get lost

Which one will you pick? Are you team insulation or team lightweight plastic? If you’re anything like me, you might have one too many bottles in your collection (and yet, it seems like sometimes I can’t find one to use!).

If you are looking for more school items that can double for travel, check out my post on the Best Dual-Purpose Backpacks where I share backpacks for all age groups that can be used not only for school but on hiking and travel trips too.