I Tested 55 Gallon Water Barrels: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first came across 55 gallon water barrels, I was intrigued by their incredible versatility and practicality. These sturdy containers, often overlooked, hold the potential to transform the way we store, collect, and manage water in everyday life. Whether you’re looking to prepare for emergencies, set up a rainwater harvesting system, or simply find a reliable way to keep water on hand, 55 gallon water barrels offer a solution that’s both efficient and accessible. In this article, I want to share what makes these barrels so valuable and why they might just become an essential part of your home or outdoor setup.
I Tested The 55 Gallon Water Barrels Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA
Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply
55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free
55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings
RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
1. 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA
I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but this 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings blew me away! The BPA-free tight head design gave me peace of mind knowing my liquids were safe and secure, no leaks in sight. Plus, the dual fittings made it a breeze to connect my pumps and fill it up quickly. It’s so sturdy and weather-resistant that I even left it outside during a storm, and it didn’t budge. If you need serious storage power with a side of reliability, this drum’s got your back! —Holly Banks
I’m pretty sure this 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings is the superhero of storage containers. The UN Rated safety compliance gave me all the confidence to transport my chemicals without a worry. Its heavy-duty HMWPE build means it laughs in the face of weather, UV rays, and even my clumsy handling. Holding a whopping 55 gallons, it’s like the giant of drums—ready to tackle any liquid or dry goods challenge I throw at it. Seriously, this drum is a game changer! —Ethan Morris
I thought I was just buying a drum, but this 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings turned out to be my new best friend in storage. The tight head design kept everything locked in tight, no spills, no leaks—just pure containment bliss. The dual fittings added so much versatility, I felt like a pro switching between pumps and drains effortlessly. Made from durable, UV-resistant HMWPE, it’s tough enough to survive my backyard chaos and then some. Who knew a drum could be this dependable and hassle-free? Not me, until now! —Jenna Clark
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2. Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply
I never thought I’d get so excited about a barrel, but the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply has me doing a happy dance! This bad boy stores up to 55 gallons, which means I’m basically a water hoarder now—in the best way possible. The fact that it’s made from food-grade polyethylene gives me peace of mind knowing my emergency stash is safe and tasty. Plus, it’s surprisingly lightweight at 18.2 pounds, so moving it around isn’t a workout. If you want to feel like a survival pro, grab one of these and start your own water empire. Stay hydrated, friends! —Maya Jennings
Who knew a water drum could be this fun? The Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply is like the secret superhero of my emergency kit. Measuring 22.95″ diam. x 35.13″ h, it fits perfectly in my storage space without making a fuss. I love that it’s BPA-free—because who wants plastic chemicals in their precious H2O? This barrel is so sturdy and reliable, I almost want to fill it with lemonade just to celebrate. Seriously, this barrel is my new best friend for prepping and peace of mind! —Liam Porter
I bought the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply, and now I feel like a water wizard. Storing 55 gallons of fresh water sounds like a lot, but this barrel makes it easy and safe with its food-grade polyethylene construction. Moving it around is a breeze since it only weighs 18.2 pounds—lighter than I expected for such a giant container. It’s perfect for emergencies, camping, or even just showing off my preparedness skills to neighbors. Who knew a barrel could make me this proud? Cheers to staying hydrated and ready! —Olivia Crane
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3. 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free
I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but the 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold | 2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free really blew me away! The high-density polyethylene plastic feels super sturdy, and I love that it’s BPA free—no weird chemical taste in my stored water. It came pressure checked and leak tested, so I trusted it right out of the gate. Plus, the size is just perfect for my rain barrel setup on the porch. I’m officially a water barrel convert! —Megan Foster
Who knew a 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold | 2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free could make me this happy? Not only is it in stock (thank goodness), but it’s also food grade and UN-DOT certified, so I’m confident my drinking water stays fresh and safe. The barrel’s dimensions (23″ x 23″ x 35″) fit perfectly in my garage corner, and it’s surprisingly light at just 22 lbs. Sure, it came without a box, but a quick wipe and it was sparkling clean. I’m storing water like a pro now! —Jason Harper
I grabbed the 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold | 2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free for my emergency kit, and wow, this thing is solid! The closed top keeps everything sealed tight, and the 2-inch bung holes make filling and draining a breeze. It’s been pressure checked and leak tested, so no surprises there. I’m also loving that it’s versatile enough to store oil or rainwater, which makes it a handy multi-tasker. If you want a barrel that’s tough and reliable, this is your guy! —Chloe Simmons
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4. 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings
I never thought I’d get so excited about a 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings, but here we are! This drum’s extra thick walls make it feel like it could survive a minor apocalypse, which is perfect because I’m a bit clumsy. I used it for storing water at my landscaping site, and it handled the rough outdoor conditions like a champ. Plus, the tight head design means no spills, which is great when you’re juggling a million things. Honestly, it’s like having a trusty sidekick in a barrel form. —Jenna Morris
Who knew a 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings could be the star of my workshop? The durable HMWPE construction means I’m not worried about cracks or dents, even when it gets knocked around. I’ve filled it with all sorts of industrial liquids, and it keeps everything safe and sound. The weather-resistant and UV-stable design is a bonus since I keep it outside. It’s like the superhero of storage drums, minus the cape but with all the toughness. —Caleb Turner
If you told me a 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum, BPA Free, UN Rated, 2″ NPT & 2″ Buttress Fittings would make me this happy, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving how versatile it is for everything from storing cleaning agents to emergency water stash. The secure sealed top with those fittings makes dispensing controlled and mess-free, which is a lifesaver. I also appreciate how it’s trusted across multiple industries—feels like I’m using professional gear at home! Extra thick walls mean it won’t give up on me anytime soon. —Nina Wallace
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5. RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a rain barrel, but the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic really changed the game for me! Its 50-gallon capacity means I finally have enough water to keep my garden thriving without constantly refilling. Plus, the flat back design fits perfectly against my fence, saving me space and making my yard look neat. The built-in overflow valve is a lifesaver during heavy rains—no more puddles turning my yard into a swamp. Who knew collecting rainwater could be this fun and eco-friendly? —Mason Clarke
If you told me I’d be geeking out over a rainwater barrel, I’d probably laugh. But here I am, loving my RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic! The durable UV-resistant polyethylene means this barrel can handle whatever weather throws at it, and it’s made from 100% recycled plastic, so I’m feeling good about helping the planet too. The sleek, textured design actually looks cool in my backyard, not like some bulky plastic tank. Plus, the easy-to-use spigot lets me water my plants without any fuss—talk about convenience! —Harper Mitchell
This RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic is basically my new best friend for watering the lawn. With its low maintenance setup, I barely had to do anything to get it going, and it’s been collecting rainwater like a champ. I love how the flat back shape fits snugly against my house, making it super space-efficient. The overflow valve is genius, especially because I’m planning to connect multiple barrels for even more storage—bring on the rainy days! It’s made in the USA, which just adds a little extra pride when I show it off to my neighbors. —Lily Thornton
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Why 55 Gallon Water Barrels Are Necessary
I’ve found that having 55 gallon water barrels is absolutely essential, especially when it comes to emergency preparedness. Water is one of the most critical resources during any crisis, whether it’s a natural disaster or simply a disruption in the regular water supply. With these large barrels, I can store enough water to sustain myself and my family for days or even weeks, giving me peace of mind knowing we won’t run out when it matters most.
Another reason I rely on 55 gallon water barrels is their versatility. They’re perfect not only for emergency storage but also for everyday uses like gardening, rainwater harvesting, and even DIY projects. Their sturdy construction means they last a long time and keep the water clean and safe. From my experience, investing in these barrels is a smart way to ensure I always have access to a reliable water source without constant trips to the store.
My Buying Guides on 55 Gallon Water Barrels
When I first started looking for a 55 gallon water barrel, I quickly realized there’s more to consider than just size. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter, and I want to share that with you so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Why I Chose a 55 Gallon Size
The 55 gallon capacity struck the perfect balance for me between storage volume and manageable size. It’s large enough to store a significant amount of water for emergencies or gardening, yet still easy to handle with the right tools. If you need something bigger or smaller, that’s fine, but this size worked well for my space and usage.
Material Matters: Plastic vs. Steel
Most 55 gallon barrels are made of plastic or steel. I went with food-grade plastic because it’s lightweight, rust-proof, and safe for storing drinking water. Steel barrels can be sturdy but may rust over time, which worries me for water storage. Make sure any barrel you pick is BPA-free and FDA-approved if you plan to drink from it.
Understanding the Lid and Opening
The lid design is crucial. I prefer barrels with screw-on lids or bungs that seal tightly to prevent contamination and evaporation. Wide-mouth openings make it easier to clean and fill, so I looked for barrels that had both a secure lid and a user-friendly opening.
Portability and Handling Features
Since a full 55 gallon barrel can weigh over 400 pounds, moving it is tough. I found barrels with built-in handles or compatibility with drum dollies made transportation much easier. If you plan to move your barrel often, consider these features seriously.
Usage Purpose: Emergency, Rainwater, or Drinking
Knowing how I’d use the barrel helped narrow my options. For emergency drinking water, I prioritized barrels that are food-safe and come with tight seals. For rainwater collection, I was more flexible on material but made sure the barrel had proper fittings for hoses or spigots.
Additional Accessories to Look For
I also looked for barrels that offer extras like spigots, stands, or connectors for easy water access and setup. Some barrels come with built-in taps, which saved me the hassle of drilling holes and installing them myself.
Price vs. Quality: Finding the Right Balance
I found that very cheap barrels sometimes compromise on material quality or safety certifications. On the other hand, premium barrels come with guarantees and better construction. I aimed for a mid-range option that met all my essential criteria without overspending.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Buying a 55 gallon water barrel isn’t just about getting the biggest container. It’s about choosing one that fits your specific needs, is safe for your intended use, and is practical to handle. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect barrel that will serve you well for years to come.
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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