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
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
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
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
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.