Choosing the Best 4x4 Water Tank for Your Vehicle
Imagine being deep in the outback, miles away from the nearest town, and realising you don’t have enough water. But how do you choose the right water storage solution for your vehicle?
When going off-road for a camping trip or a long 4x4 adventure, water is a must-have. A good water supply helps you stay hydrated, cook, clean, and even take a quick shower. In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll cover the best 4x4 water tanks, how much water you need, where to install them, and how to keep your supply fresh. Plus, we’ll share expert tips and top product picks to help you choose the right tank for your next trip.
Why Do You Need a 4x4 Water Tank? What are the Benefits?
Bringing water in your 4x4 is essential, but where you store your tank makes a big difference. Many off-roaders start with jerry cans, but they can be bulky, hard to store, and don’t hold much water. If you love touring, upgrading to a proper water tank is a smart move. A well-installed tank gives you easy access to water, keeps your vehicle balanced, and saves space. There are plenty of options to fit your vehicle and water needs.
Made for tough conditions, high-quality 4x4 water tanks are strong, secure, and leak-proof, keeping your water clean and safe. Most off-road tanks are made from tough plastic and can hold anywhere from 20L to several hundred litres. They are easy to install and can work with gravity feed or a 12V pump for extra convenience.
Comparison: Jerry Can vs. 4x4 Water Tank
| Feature | Jerry Can | 4x4 Water Tank |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Limited (20L max per can) | Up to 100L+ options |
| Storage | Bulky, takes up cargo space | Custom mounting locations |
| Ease of Use | Manual pouring, can spill | Tap or hose access |
| Durability | Prone to leaks & plastic taste | Robust, long-lasting materials |
| Best For | Short trips, emergency backup | Long trips, full-time touring |
Types of 4x4 Water Tanks
Selecting the right water tank material and design depends on your vehicle, trip duration, and budget. Below is a comparison table to help you find the right tank to fit your 4x4 space.
| Tank Type | Pros | Cons | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Jerry Can | Cheap, portable, lightweight | Limited capacity, bulky when full | Short trips | $20 – $80 |
| Stainless Steel Tank | Large capacity, durable, fresh taste | Expensive, requires a pump | Long-term touring | $300 – $800 |
| PVC Pipe Tank | Uses roof space, gravity-fed | Raises center of gravity, warm water | Budget setups, showers | $50 – $150 |
| Polyethylene Tank | Strong, lightweight, cost-effective | Universal fit (not vehicle-specific) | Touring, off-road | $150 – $400 |
| Water Bladder | Flexible, fits in tight spaces | Prone to punctures | Space-saving setups | $100 – $300 |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a 4x4 Water Tank
There are a few things you should consider before buying your 4x4 water tank to make sure you've got the right one for your vehicle and needs. Consider the water tank's holding capacity. Your water requirements will depend on the road trip length, number of people, and intended use. Will you need the water just for drinking, or also for cooking, and showering?
The material of a water tank affects its strength and water quality. Polyethylene is light and durable, stainless steel keeps water fresh but costs more, and PVC is a cheaper option, best for showers instead of drinking. Where you install the tank also matters. You can mount it under the vehicle, behind seats, in the footwell, over wheel arches, or on a spare wheel carrier, depending on space and how easy it will be to access.
You want to make sure your vehicle maintains safe weight distribution to keep it stable when driving on difficult tracks or uneven ground. This will keep the center of gravity low to reduce the chance of wear and tear on your 4x4 and tyres. Depending on the location you choose, some tanks will work best with a gravity-fed outlet, while a different tank might need a 12V pump system to get the water moving. Choose tanks that are resistant to impacts, UV-stabilised, and designed to handle tough terrain. If you plan to use the tank for drinking water, ensure it’s BPA-free and food-grade safe to prevent contamination.
Finally, the tank you choose should also be easy to clean and maintain. Check for an easy drainage system and ensure that it can be sanitised properly to avoid creating a home for bacteria and bad odours. Finally, think about your budget, and the value for money that each tank could give you. Costs of tank types will vary depending on how much water they can carry, the material it's made from, and any extra features such as strengthened mounting points and taps that are built in.
Use this simplified checklist to compare different water tanks and find the best fit for your 4x4 setup.
✅ General Considerations
☐ Tank Capacity: Does it meet your water needs for drinking, cooking, and cleaning?
☐ Material: Is it made from polyethylene, stainless steel, or PVC? Think about durability, weight, and drinking water safety.
☐ Weight & Balance: Will the tank’s weight affect the vehicle's stability and handling?
✅ Mounting & Fit
☐ Mounting Location: Can it fit underbody, behind seats, in the footwell, over wheel arches, or on a spare wheel carrier?
☐ Space Availability: Does it fit in your current setup without taking up important storage space?
☐ Accessibility: Can you easily fill, drain, and access the tank when needed?
☐ Installation Complexity: Does it come with pre-moulded mounting points, or will custom brackets and fittings be required?
✅ Functionality & Performance
☐ Water Dispensing Method: Is it gravity-fed or does it require a 12V pump system?
☐ Durability: Is it UV-stabilised, resistant to impacts, and made for off-road conditions?
☐ Food-Grade Safe: If used for drinking water, is it BPA-free and made from food-safe materials?
☐ Maintenance & Cleaning: Can it be easily drained, flushed, and sanitised to prevent bacteria buildup?
✅ Budget & Value
☐ Price: Does it fit within your financial budget while offering good durability and being functional?
☐ Additional Features: Does it include built-in taps, reinforced mounting points, or accessories like hoses and pumps?
Final Check
☐ Will it work seamlessly with your 4x4 setup without compromising storage, weight distribution, or accessibility?
How Much Water Capacity Do You Need?
A good rule is to have at least 2 litres of water per person per day for drinking. You’ll need more for cooking, washing, and showering. For short weekend trips, a 20-50L tank should be enough, but for longer trips or remote travel, it's best to have 100L or more to stay self-sufficient.
If you're travelling in hot weather or doing activities like off-road recovery or bush camping, you’ll need extra water since you'll use more. It's also important to carry extra for emergencies, as a breakdown or delay can quickly use up your supply.
For short weekend trips → A 20-50L polyethylene tank or jerry cans should be plenty.
For multi-day camping trips → A 50-100L polyethylene or stainless steel tank is ideal.
For long-distance touring → Consider an underbody stainless steel tank (100L+) with a 12V water pump system.
This is a general guide. Your needs may be different from these recommendations.
Where to Install Your Water Tank with the Best Mounting Locations
When choosing where to install a 4WD water tank, think about space, balance, and ease of use. Placing the tank in the right spot helps save storage space and keeps the vehicle stable. Keeping it low in the vehicle prevents shifting weight, making off-road driving safer and easier to control.
It’s not a good idea to mount a water tank on the roof, as it changes the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it less stable to handle and more likely to roll over when doing hill climbs or driving on uneven ground. A heavy tank on the roof can also put pressure on roof racks and mounting points. This increases the chance of damage to your vehicle on bumpy tracks, or over time.
A full water tank can affect fuel use, suspension, and how your vehicle drives. If placed in the wrong spot, it can make acceleration, braking, and steering harder, especially on rough roads. A lightweight and strong tank helps reduce stress on your vehicle.
Finally, ease of installation and removal should not be overlooked. A well-designed system allows for quick refills, maintenance, and adaptability for different trip needs without excessive effort or modifications. A tank that is easily removable also offers the flexibility to adjust your setup depending on the length and nature of your trip.
Choose a water tank that is easy to install and remove. This makes refilling, cleaning, and adjusting for trips simple without needing extra effort or making big modifications to your vehicle. A removable tank lets you change your setup as needed.
By keeping these points in mind, you can choose a water tank that improves your 4WD without affecting safety or performance.
| Location | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underbody | Saves space, keeps weight low | Prone to damage from rocks | Touring setups |
| Behind Rear Seats | Out of the way, good use of space | Limited tank sizes | Utes, wagons |
| Footwell | Temporary, easy access | Not great with passengers | Weekend trips |
| Wheel Arches | Uses unused space | May not fit with drawers | Utes |
| Spare Wheel Carrier | Good backup storage | Requires a rear bar mount | Extra water storage |
Additional Features to Look For: Pumps and Accessories
When picking a 4WD water tank, extra features can make it easier to use. A good pump helps water flow smoothly to taps, showers, or kitchen setups, especially for underbody or large tanks. A 12V pump gives steady pressure, making it easier to refill bottles, wash dishes, or shower on the go.
Water filters are a great extra to keep your water clean, germ-free, and safe to drink, especially when using unknown sources. A built-in or inline filter removes dust, chlorine, and other harmful stuff, making the water safer and better tasting. This is especially useful when getting water from rivers, tanks, or wells.
Extras like quick-connect hoses, water meters, taps, and lockable caps make your setup more useful and secure. These add-ons make water access easier, stop leaks, and help control use, so you get the most out of your stored water.
Using strong fittings and durable materials makes your water tank last longer and prevents leaks, contamination, or damage on rough tracks. These features help keep your 4WD water system reliable, easy to use, and suited for any trip.
Maintenance and Care for Your 4x4 Water Tank: Keeping Your Water Safe
Proper maintenance and cleaning of your 4WD water tank is essential to ensure safe, fresh drinking water on every trip. Over time, tanks can develop bacteria, algae, and unpleasant odours if not regularly cleaned and maintained. By following a simple cleaning routine and taking preventative measures, you can keep your water supply hygienic, reliable, and free from contamination. Below are key tips to ensure your water tank remains in top condition for all your off-road adventures.
- Regular Cleaning Schedule
- Drain and rinse tank every 3 months.
- Use bi-carb soda & vinegar solution to remove bacteria buildup.
- Flush with clean water before refilling.
- Use food-grade hoses to avoid plastic taste.
- Preventing Algae & Bacteria Growth
- Store water in dark, cool places.
- Use UV-resistant tanks.
- Add water purifying tablets if storing long-term.
- Checking for Leaks & Damage
- Inspect hoses & fittings before every trip.
- Replace cracked or leaking parts immediately.
Top 4x4 Water Tank Brands and Models
Choosing the right water tank brand is just as important as selecting the right size and mounting location. You want a tank that’s durable, reliable, and designed for rugged off-road conditions. Below, we highlight some of the top water tank brands available at Outback Equipment, focusing on build quality, value for money, and customer reviews.
The Best 4x4 Water Tanks, Recommended:
See our top picks below for the most reliable water tanks for every 4x4 need.
| Brand & Model | Capacity | Best For | RRP | Our Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuff Terrain Poly Footwell Tank | 40L | Rear footwell | $341.00 | Found Here |
| Yakima Road Shower | 26L | Roof storage | $779.00 | Found Here |
| Plastimo Flexible Water Tank Square | 50L | Flexible storage | $164.00 | Found Here |
| Front Runner Stainless Steel Water Tank | 52L | Long-term touring | $1,572.00 | Found Here |
| Boab Poly Water Tank | 80L | Under tray/ute | $409.88 | Found Here |
1. Tuff Terrain Water Tanks – Heavy-Duty and Versatile
Tuff Terrain is a trusted name in the 4WD community, known for producing durable, UV-resistant, and impact-proof polyethylene water tanks. These tanks are designed for underbody mounting, footwell placement, or rear cargo setups, making them a versatile choice for any off-road enthusiast.
Top Pick: Tuff Terrain Poly Footwell Water Tank 40 Litre
Customer Rating: 4.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (39)
Why Choose It?
- Strong polyethylene construction for long-term durability.
- Compact design fits in the footwell of most 4x4 vehicles.
- Easy access with a pre-installed tap for convenience.
Customer Review:
"It’s perfect. It’s compact, fits like a glove and easy to attach outlet hoses. I’ve been using it for the past 4 weeks while 4WDriving in the Vic High Country. Glad I bought a funnel for refilling from fantastic mountain creeks. My partner is now buying one for his car" – Kerry De Cla.
2. Front Runner Stainless Steel Water Tank
Front Runner is known for compact, space-saving water tanks that are perfect for smaller vehicles or secondary water storage. If you need a removable, easy-to-use tank, Front Runner is a top contender.
Top Pick: Front Runner Stainless Steel Water Tank for Ute Drawer System / 52L
Why Choose It?
- 52L stainless steel tank to make it strong, rust-resistant, and built for longevity.
- Hidden installation fits behind the drawer system, saving cargo space.
- Pre-installed 12V pump provides steady water pressure.
- Neatly concealed piping ensures a clean and organised setup.
3. Boab – Long-Range Touring Specialists
Boab water tanks are designed for serious off-road enthusiasts, offering large-capacity tanks that can be mounted underbody, in canopies, or in footwells. These tanks are built to withstand extreme conditions, making them ideal for long-distance touring.
Top Pick: Boab 80L Underbody Water Tank
Customer Rating: 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (1)
Why Choose It?
- Low-profile underbody mounting keeps weight balanced.
- High-capacity (80L) for extended trips.
- Two outlets fitted to the bottom allow for a choice of exit to the tap or plumbing system.
- Heavy-duty polyethylene construction for durability.
Customer Review:
“Great quality” – Wade Heath.
Get Ready for Your Next Adventure!
Choosing the right 4WD water tank is important for off-road trips, giving you a safe and reliable water supply wherever you go. Whether it’s a weekend trip or a long journey, a good tank keeps you prepared and hydrated.
Think about capacity, placement, strength, and features to find the right water tank for your setup. Brands like Tuff Terrain, Outback Explorer, Boab, and Front Runner make durable tanks for Australian conditions, helping you stay ready for any trip.
Ready to upgrade your 4WD water system? Check out the full range of water tanks and accessories at Outback Equipment and make sure you’re set for your next adventure! Happy travels!
