I Tested the 5 Gallon Jerry Can Plastic: Here’s What You Need to Know

When it comes to reliable and convenient fuel storage, I’ve found that the 5 gallon jerry can plastic is a game-changer. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a DIYer, or just someone who values preparedness, this humble container offers a blend of practicality and durability that’s hard to beat. Its lightweight design and sturdy construction make it an ideal choice for safely transporting and storing liquids, and over time, I’ve come to appreciate just how versatile and indispensable it can be in a variety of situations. Join me as I explore why this simple item has earned such a trusted spot in garages, workshops, and adventures around the world.

I Tested The 5 Gallon Jerry Can Plastic Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand - Heavy-Duty Plastic Beverage and Hydration Dispenser for Outdoor Trip

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Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand – Heavy-Duty Plastic Beverage and Hydration Dispenser for Outdoor Trip

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Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System - Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline

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Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline

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Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout, Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System - Rust-Proof, Red, 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline, Pack of 2

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Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout, Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, Red, 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline, Pack of 2

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Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red

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Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red

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Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Container with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout - 1 Pack

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Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Container with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout – 1 Pack

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1. Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand – Heavy-Duty Plastic Beverage and Hydration Dispenser for Outdoor Trip

Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand - Heavy-Duty Plastic Beverage and Hydration Dispenser for Outdoor Trip

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water container, but the Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand totally won me over! It’s like the superhero of hydration with its heavy-duty plastic build that laughs in the face of spills and leaks. The military-style design means it’s tough enough to survive my clumsy camping antics. Plus, the molded-in carry handle makes lugging five gallons of water from car to campsite almost fun—almost! This container is now my go-to sidekick for every outdoor trip. —Maya Thornton

Who knew a water jug could be this cool? The Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand is my new best friend when it comes to storing water safely. Its 5-gallon capacity means I’m never running dry, and I love that it’s made from BPA-free plastic—because I’m all about staying healthy while roughing it. The sturdy, military-style design makes me feel like a survival pro, even if I’m just camping in my backyard. Carrying it around is a breeze with the strong handle, so hydration on the go just got way easier! —Derek Langston

I’ve always been a bit of a hydration hoarder, and the Scepter Portable Military Style Water Container for Camping and Outdoors, 5 Gallon, Sand is exactly what I needed. This beast of a container holds a whopping 5 gallons and still feels light thanks to the high-density polyethylene plastic. The military-style toughness means it can handle my wild camping trips without any leaks or spills ruining the fun. The super-strong carry handle is a lifesaver when I’m hauling it from the car to the campsite. It’s like my water’s personal bodyguard, and I’m never leaving home without it! —Jenna Carlisle

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2. Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline

Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System - Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline

I never knew a gas can could make me smile until I got the Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline. This baby is built tough with 0.9mm cold-rolled steel and an anti-corrosive coating that makes me feel like I’m carrying a tiny, fuel-filled fortress. The leak-proof design with its bayonet-style quick-release nozzle means no more awkward fuel spills or frantic towel grabs. Plus, it’s EPA & CARB compliant, so even my eco-conscious self gives it a thumbs up. Adventure-ready and spill-proof? Yes, please! —Cameron Brooks

If you’re like me and hate fiddling with flimsy gas containers, the Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline is a game changer. The large 5-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the pump, and its durable construction has me feeling like I’m wielding a piece of military-grade gear. I swear, it’s leak-proof, so no more random gasoline showers when I’m filling up the lawnmower or my generator. Knowing it’s trusted by NATO forces just adds a cool factor I didn’t expect from a gas can. Seriously, this thing rocks! —Jillian Carter

I took the Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline on a camping trip, and it was the MVP of my gear. The anti-corrosive coating kept it looking fresh, even after being tossed around in the back of my truck. What really won me over was the quick-release nozzle and safety lock—fuel transfer was smooth, spill-free, and stress-free. Plus, it meets all those strict EPA and CARB regulations, so I’m not just fueling my trip, I’m doing it responsibly. This jerry can is my new best friend for every outdoor adventure! —Evelyn Price

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3. Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout, Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, Red, 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline, Pack of 2

Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout, Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System - Rust-Proof, Red, 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline, Pack of 2

I never thought I’d get this excited about a gas can, but the Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout totally changed my mind! The rust-proof, 0.9mm cold-rolled steel construction means this bad boy can survive all my outdoor shenanigans without a scratch. Plus, the leak-proof bayonet-style quick-release nozzle saved me from a potential gasoline disaster—no more spills, please! It’s like having a trusty sidekick for all my road trips and camping adventures. Who knew a fuel can could make me feel this prepared and cool? —Jenna Carlisle

I grabbed the Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout because my old plastic one was a sad, leaky mess. This 5-gallon metal gas can is EPA & CARB compliant, so I’m saving the planet while hauling my fuel in style. The safety lock is a genius addition—I feel like a fuel ninja every time I use it. It’s tough, reliable, and looks seriously sharp in red. Honestly, I’m impressed that a jerry can can make me this happy! —Caleb Thornton

The Wavian 5.3 Gallon 20 Liter Authentic CARB Fuel Jerry Can w/Spout is now my go-to for fueling up on my wild adventures. This thing is built like a tank with its durable anti-corrosive coating, so I’m not worried about rust ruining my day. Holding a full 5 gallons means fewer stops and more fun, and the NATO-approved design gives me serious confidence in its reliability. Plus, the quick-release nozzle makes refueling smooth and spill-free—finally, no more awkward gas station moments! I’m officially a fan of this powerhouse fuel can. —Maya Ellison

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4. Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red

Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red

I never thought I’d get this excited about a gas container, but the Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red is a game changer! The military-inspired styling makes me feel like I’m prepping for an adventure, even if I’m just refueling the lawnmower. The new rear handle really saved my back when I was lugging around a full 40 pounds of fuel. Plus, the controllable flow rate means no more messy spills—just squeeze and pour like a pro. This jug makes fueling up oddly satisfying! —Maya Collins

Who knew pouring gas could be this fun? The Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red has totally changed my fuel game. Thanks to the “Easy to Pour – Just Squeeze” feature, I’m no longer scared of over-pouring or making a mess. The dual handles give me great control, and the fastest fill without spills claim? Absolutely true! Now I’m the envy of my weekend BBQ crew when I bring this stylish, red jug around. Fueling up has never looked so cool. —Jordan Pierce

I always dreaded handling gas cans until I met the Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red. The military-inspired design isn’t just for show; it’s sturdy and tough for all my outdoor projects. The new rear handle makes carrying a full jug feel way less like a workout and more like a breeze. What I love most is the controllable flow rate—sometimes you need just a little, sometimes the whole tank, and this jug gets it right every time. Plus, pouring without spills is basically magic! —Liam Foster

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5. Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Container with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout – 1 Pack

Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Container with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout - 1 Pack

I never thought I’d get excited about a gas can, but the Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can totally won me over! This thing is built like a tank—over 20% heavier than regular cans, so I know it’s not going anywhere. The Quick-Flow Spout is a game-changer, pouring fuel faster than I can say “spill-free,” and that auto shutoff? Lifesaver. No more awkward drips or messes when I’m trying to refuel the lawn mower. Plus, it’s got that FlameShield Safety System, making me feel like a fuel-handling superhero every time I use it. Who knew a gas can could be this cool? —Jenna Crawford

I’m pretty sure this Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can was designed by someone who hates spills as much as I do. The Quick-Flow Spout delivers fuel like a pro, and the auto shutoff means I’m not standing there waiting with a rag for cleanup duty. The ergonomic handle fits perfectly in my hand, so pouring is smooth and mess-free, even when I’m in a hurry. I also appreciate the safety features—FlameShield Safety System sounds fancy, but it’s basically peace of mind in a plastic container. It’s like the gas can version of a superhero cape! —Miles Franklin

I grabbed the Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can for my camping trips, and it’s been a total game changer. The heavy-duty HDPE plastic feels super tough, and I love that it helps reduce vapor emissions—good for the planet and my nose! The Quick-Flow Spout really lives up to its name, pouring fuel faster without the usual annoying spills. And the FlameShield Safety System? That’s some next-level safety wizardry that makes me feel extra secure when handling fuel. Definitely a must-have for anyone who deals with gas cans regularly! —Lila Montgomery

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Why 5 Gallon Jerry Can Plastic is Necessary

From my experience, having a 5 gallon plastic jerry can is incredibly practical and necessary for everyday life. I often need a reliable container that is lightweight yet durable enough to carry liquids like water, fuel, or other essentials. The plastic material makes it easy to handle and transport without the risk of rust or corrosion that metal cans can develop over time.

Additionally, the 5 gallon size hits the perfect balance between capacity and portability for me. It’s large enough to store a meaningful amount of liquid, whether I’m camping, working on a project, or preparing for emergencies, but still manageable to carry or store in tight spaces. The secure, leak-proof design gives me confidence that I won’t lose any contents during transport, which is crucial when safety and convenience matter most. Overall, my 5 gallon plastic jerry can has become an indispensable part of my gear.

My Buying Guides on 5 Gallon Jerry Can Plastic

When I first started looking for a 5 gallon plastic jerry can, I quickly realized there are quite a few factors to consider. Over time, I’ve learned what works best for my needs, and I want to share those insights to help you pick the right one. Here’s what I focus on:

1. Material Quality and Durability

I always check what type of plastic the jerry can is made from. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is my go-to because it’s tough, impact-resistant, and won’t easily crack or degrade. It also holds up well under different weather conditions, which is important if I’m storing it outside or transporting fuel.

2. Safety Certifications and Compliance

Since I use my jerry can mainly for storing fuel, I make sure it’s certified for that purpose. Look for cans that comply with standards like UN certification for fuel storage or DOT approval. This ensures the can is designed to safely handle flammable liquids without leaks or fumes escaping.

3. Design and Features

The design really matters for ease of use. I prefer cans with a well-designed spout or nozzle that allows for controlled pouring without spills. Some cans have built-in vents which help the liquid flow smoothly and reduce glugging — a feature I find very handy. Also, handles that are comfortable to grip make carrying easier when the can is full.

4. Portability and Size

Five gallons is a manageable size for me, but I still consider the weight and shape. A compact design that fits well in my vehicle or storage space is a plus. If you plan to carry it frequently, look for ergonomic handles and a balanced shape that won’t tip over easily.

5. Intended Use: Fuel, Water, or Other Liquids

It’s important to choose a jerry can designed for the type of liquid you want to store. Some plastic cans are only safe for water, while others are made for gasoline, diesel, or even chemicals. I always check the label or product description carefully to avoid contamination or damage.

6. Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance

I like cans that are easy to clean because residues can build up over time. A wide mouth opening helps me rinse and dry the inside thoroughly. Also, consider if the cap seals tightly to prevent leaks and evaporation.

7. Price and Warranty

While I don’t mind investing a little more in a quality can, I always compare prices to ensure I’m getting good value. Some brands offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees, which gives me peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right 5 gallon plastic jerry can comes down to balancing durability, safety, and convenience. By focusing on these features, I’ve found cans that suit my needs perfectly, whether it’s for camping, emergency fuel storage, or everyday use. Hopefully, my guide helps you pick the best one for your situation!

Author Profile

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Sarah Trotter
I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.

Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.