Many RVers love the option of boondocking or drycamping, which means RVing without any hookups. Boondocking allows you to access locations that are more remote and inexpensive but don’t have utility hookups. Boondocking provides opportunities to get closer to beautiful scenery such as lakes, rivers and mountains that don’t have any infrastructure nearby.
When boondocking in remote locations, the stay is often cut short because you run out of fresh water. Increasing the amount of fresh water you can carry will allow you to extend your time boondocking without you running out of water.
Here are 5 ways to expand your fresh water capacity while RVing:
- Use a Berkey filter
- Add Water Jugs
- Utilize Portable Water Bladders
- Purchase a Truck Holding Tank and Pump
- Collect Water at a River or During a Rainfall
1. Use a Berkey filter
The Berkey is a portable water filtration system used in homes and RVs. It utilizes a ceramic filter and carbon block to purify water, removing bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals. The RV version of the Berkey, which can produce up to 2.75 gallons of clean water per hour, is fairly small and easy to set up in an RV setting.
The RV Berkey is easily transported, making it a convenient option for filtering water on the go. The Berkey RV water filter can be purchased at their website.
2. Add Water Jugs
Water jugs, such as this one, can easily be purchased to store water in an RV. We recommend sizes between 3 and 5 gallons. The compact size of a 3 to 5-gallon water jug takes up minimal space, making it ideal for use in areas where storage space is limited. The jug’s handle and lighter weight make it easy to carry and transport additional water.
Purchasing a water jug is often more cost-effective than buying bottled water, as it can be refilled multiple times and is cheaper per fluid ounce when compared to bottled water. You can refill a water jug at most water stations and RV parks. By using a water jug, RVers can save space and money and have a convenient and accessible source of water for their travels.
3. Utilize Potable Water Bladders
A portable water bladder is a flexible, collapsible water container that is often used for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking, as well as for emergency preparedness. They are also very useful for RVers wanting to expand their fresh water capacity.
The water bladders are typically made of durable, BPA-free materials that are resistant to punctures and leaks. They come in various sizes, from small hydration packs you can wear on your waist or back to large, heavy-duty containers (in the bed of a truck) that can hold many gallons of water.
The water in a portable bladder can be accessed through a spigot, hose, or drinking tube for convenient use on the go. You can use a water pump with a hose to move water from your portable water bladder to your main water tank. Just make sure you are using a hose that is intended for drinking water and keep it stored, away from contaminate sources when not in use.
WaterStorageCube Premium Collapsible Water Container Bag
4. Purchase a Truck Holding Tank and Pump
For RVers with trucks who want a more permanent water storage option, a truck holding tank and pump can be purchased. Before purchasing such a holding tank, consider the volume of water you need to transport and the size of your truck bed. Choose a tank that is compatible with your truck and fits the space available.
You will also need to purchase a pump to transfer the water from the holding tank to your RV. Decide on the type of pump you need based on your specific requirements. Options include electric, manual, and battery-operated pumps.
When choosing the size of the tank, it is important to consider the weight of the additional water you’ll be carrying. You don’t want to add a tank that will put your vehicle over its weight capacity. Every additional gallon of water is adding 8.34 lbs of weight.
5. Collect Water at a River or During a Rainfall
If you will be RVing near a river, or if rain is in the forecast, you may want to collect water from a river or during a rainfall.
If collecting from a river, use a clean, food-grade container such as a bottle, bucket, or water bag to scoop the water from the river. Use a physical filter such as a pre-filter, a ceramic filter, or a cloth filter to remove debris and sediment from the water.
If collecting rain water, we recommend using a collapsible rain water barrel to collect and store the water. A collapsible rain barrel is an eco-friendly, portable, flexible water container designed to collect and store rainwater. It is often made of durable, food-grade materials such as plastic or vinyl, and can be easily folded or rolled up for storage when not in use.
They typically come with a spigot or tap for easy access to the stored rainwater, and can be connected to gutters or other rainwater collection systems for convenient use.
If you plan to drink the collected water, use water purification tablets or drops to treat it. Or, you can boil the water for at least 1 minute to kill any harmful bacteria or viruses. Be aware of the quality of water in the area, as water from some sources may contain pollutants and require additional treatment.
Collecting water from a river may or may not be illegal, depending on the location and the type of water source. In some places, collecting water from rivers and other natural sources is allowed without restriction, while in others it may be subject to certain regulations or require a permit.
Research the laws and regulations in your area before collecting water from a river, as well as to consider the potential impact on the environment and other water users.
Conclusion
There are a variety of methods you can use to carry additional water in your RV when boondocking, including water jugs or containers, water storage tanks, portable water pumps and filtration systems, rainwater collection systems and water conservation methods. Be sure to check the safety of the water source before collecting or using it and treat it accordingly.
Related Questions
How Can I Conserve Water When Boondocking?
Take quick (sailor) showers. Wash dishes all at once with minimal rinsing. Plan meals that don’t require a lot of water. You shouldn’t ration your drinking water as dehydration can cause significant health issues. If you run out of drinking water, it’s time to go.
How Can I Extend My Time Boondocking?
Read our article “How To Extend Your Time Boondocking In An RV”