Our editors put the biggest names in hydration to the test – from high-tech UV purifiers to the one-handed flasks that survive rugged adventures
Best for road trips
Capacity: 1L
Most high-capacity water bottles suffer from the same flaw – they simply cannot fit into standard vehicle cup holders, forcing you to downsize for travel. The design team behind the Hydro Flask All Around Travel Tumbler solved this dilemma by engineering a full 1-litre vessel that slides effortlessly into most car holders. The tapered bottom makes this possible, whilst the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip on the move. A flexible straw and secure lid offer excellent splash protection.
Meaghan Kenny, US associate commerce editor, explains: “While I do love my original Hydro Flask bottle when it's time to pack for its leak-proof capabilities, the one con I have is it does not fit in the cup holder in my car – meaning I never reach for it when I'm going on a road trip. When it's time to drive, I turn to this sleek, easy-to-hold tumbler that fits in most cupholders, thanks to its slim bottom. I love the flexible, soft silicone straw – it's easy to drink from on the move and I never worry about it accidentally hitting my teeth. Unlike my other Hydro Flask bottle, this straw can't be collapsed, so I wouldn't recommend throwing it in your bag. The large, ergonomic handle is much more comfortable to grip than other bottles I've tried. The double-walled insulation maintains your drink's temperature for hours and it’s dishwasher safe, BPA-free, and designed to handle some wear and tear. Mine looks good as new even after countless day trips with it.”
Pros: Tapered, slim base fits into car cup holders despite large 1-litre capacity; ergonomic handle; flexible silicone straw is comfortable to drink from while moving; dishwasher-safe
Cons: Straw cannot be collapsed or sealed so bottle cannot be thrown into a bag