LivingTravelReview: Hydrapak Stash collapsible bottle

Review: Hydrapak Stash collapsible bottle

Bringing your own bottle of water on the go is good for a number of reasons. In countries where the water is safe to drink, you will save a ton of money and avoid using unnecessary plastic bottles. Even if your water source is not drinkable, having your own bottle allows you to use a Steripen to treat it, or to easily carry pre-boiled water with you.

However, there is a downside. In hot countries, you need a lot of water to get through the day, which means carrying large and bulky containers. You don’t much care when those bins are full, but having them taking up much-needed space in your bag while it’s empty is annoying.

I have covered a solution to this problem in the past, the Vapur Shades roll-up container. Now, Hydrapak has unveiled a range of alternatives, including its Stash collapsible bottle.

I put the Stash to the test on hiking and urban exploration in New Zealand. This is how it went.

 

Features and specs

The Hydrapak Stash is upright, with hard plastic on the top and bottom, and soft, flexible TPU in the middle. The top has a 42mm (1.65 ”) diameter hole with a screw cap and a nylon strap to make the bottle easier to hold or attach to a backpack.

The most interesting aspect of Stash is its collapsibility. By rotating the top section 180 degrees and pressing down, the bottle is compressed about the size of a hockey puck. The top and bottom are joined together with a solid click and separated by pressing the marked areas near the lid.

The stash comes in two sizes: 750 ml (26 ounces) and one liter (35 ounces) and four colors, and it weighs about 2.3 ounces. It’s dishwasher safe, freeze-safe, and will handle both hot and cold liquids, but not boiling.

 

Real world tests

I was using the smaller version, 750ml, and found it to be a useful size. While the stash was half full or more, it stood firm enough to easily hold in the middle with one hand while walking. When it got emptier than that, I started hanging the nylon loop around one finger and grabbed the top plastic section instead.

Going through the airport scanners, I emptied the bottle, clicked on the two sections, and dropped it in my carry-on. On the other side of security, I refilled it from a drinking fountain.

Being so small while compressed, I kept the stash in my backpack at all times. I often forgot I was there, but if I was thirsty while walking around town, I would expand the bottle, fill it from a drinking fountain or bathroom faucet, and get on with my day.

While walking, I found that while I could take a sip from the bottle while walking if I was careful, it was best not to. The non-rigid sides and the size of the opening combined to make spilling too easy, which, combined with the need to screw and unscrew the top, made the drinking break a more sensible option.

Speaking of the non-rigid sides, they were both a benefit and a problem. Without them, the bottle would not collapse, but with them, it began to fall when it was less than half full. I suggest you hold the top and bottom plastic sections while you drink as the stash approaches empty, if you don’t want to accidentally splash water on your face.

I didn’t notice any strange taste while using the stash, and it remained mold free for several months of use, even when left in a bag for several days. However, after about a year the plastic started to discolor, and while it didn’t noticeably affect the taste, I opted to stop using the stash just in case.

I recommend making sure the container is completely dry before storing it for an extended period, perhaps leaving it in the sun for a couple of hours.

Verdict

Hydrapak Stash is a practical travel accessory, especially for those with little space in their backpack. When compressed, it is small enough that you can leave it in the bag and forget it is there until you need it, but it contains enough water or other liquid to be useful.

It’s easier to transport and less prone to spills when half full, but can be used to the last drop with a little extra care. It is unlikely to last several years, but since it is so small, lightweight, and costs less than twenty dollars, it is nonetheless a valuable addition to your travel bag.

Check prices on Amazon.

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