The Best Overland Fuel Storage for 2023

For those long range overland excursions, be sure to carry enough fuel to get you home.

Our Top Fuel Storage Picks

Image of RotopaX RX-1G Gasoline Pack ► Industry Leader RotopaX RX-1G Gasoline Pack
Image of Wavian USA Red Authentic NATO Jerry Fuel Can ► Classic Jerry Can Design Wavian USA Red Authentic NATO Jerry Fuel Can
Image of Rotopax Diesel Pack (2 Galon) ► Best Diesel Fuel Container Rotopax Diesel Pack (2 Galon)
Overland.Reviews is visitor supported, and we may earn a commission if you purchase through one of our links.

When it comes to overlanding, one of the most important things to consider is having enough fuel for the journey. Gas cans are a great way to ensure you have enough fuel, but with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to choose the best one for your needs. Here are some of the most important considerations to keep in mind when selecting a gas can for overlanding.

How We Pick the Best Gas Jerry Cans for Overlanding

Capacity

The first thing to consider is how much fuel you need to carry with you. A small 5-gallon can might be fine for shorter trips, but if you’re planning a long journey, you might want to opt for a larger capacity can. Keep in mind that while a larger can might give you more fuel, it will also take up more space in your vehicle and be heavier to carry.

Material

Gas cans are typically made of plastic or metal. Plastic cans are lightweight and less expensive, but they can be brittle and prone to cracking in extreme temperatures. Metal cans are sturdier and better able to withstand harsh conditions, but they’re also heavier and more expensive. When choosing a gas can, consider the conditions you’ll be facing on your trip and choose a material that will suit your needs.

Spout type

Gas cans come with a variety of spout types, and the right one for you will depend on your specific needs. Some cans have a screw-on spout that you have to remove and replace each time you need to pour gas. Others have a flip-top spout that opens and closes with a simple flip of a lever. Some spouts are designed to prevent spills, while others are designed to pour quickly and easily. Consider the kind of spout you’ll need based on how you plan to use your gas can.

Safety features

Safety is always a top concern when working with gasoline, so it’s important to choose a gas can that has features in place to minimize the risk of fire or spills. Some cans have flame arrestors that prevent sparks from igniting the fuel, while others have no-spill spouts that reduce the risk of spills. When choosing a gas can, consider the safety features that are important to you and choose one that will help you stay safe on the road.

Price

Gas cans can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on their size, material, and features. While it’s tempting to choose the least expensive option, keep in mind that the cheapest gas can might not be the best option for your needs. Consider the value you’re getting for the price and choose a can that offers the features and quality you need at a price you can afford.

Ease of Use

When you’re on the road, you don’t want to spend a lot of time fussing with your gas can. Choose a can that’s easy to use and will make it simple to get the fuel you need when you need it. Look for cans that are easy to pour, have simple spouts, and won’t spill or leak.

Durability

Overlanding can be tough on gear, so you want a gas can that will hold up to the rigors of the road. Choose a can that’s made of high-quality materials and is built to last. Consider the conditions you’ll be facing on your trip and choose a can that will stand up to the elements and the wear and tear of travel.

In conclusion, selecting the best gas can for overlanding requires careful consideration of your specific needs and requirements. Consider the capacity you need, the material and spout type, the safety features, the price, ease of use,  and the durability of the gas can. Taking these factors into account will help you choose a gas can that will serve you well on your overlanding adventures.

It’s also important to keep in mind the regulations regarding gas cans. Some states have regulations that prohibit the use of plastic gas cans or limit their size. Before you purchase a gas can, be sure to check the regulations in your area to make sure the can you choose is compliant.

When using a gas can, always be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take the necessary precautions to prevent fires or spills. Store your gas can securely in your vehicle, away from any sparks or flames, and never transport gasoline in the passenger compartment of your vehicle.

In addition to choosing the right gas can, it’s also important to have a plan for how you’ll handle fuel during your overlanding trip. Make sure you have a map of the area and know where you can find fuel along the way. It’s also a good idea to carry extra fuel in your vehicle in case you run into any unexpected detours or delays.

Overlanding can be a great adventure, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Having the right gas can will help ensure you have the fuel you need to make the most of your trip. Choose a gas can that meets your needs and remember to take the necessary precautions to stay safe on the road.

In conclusion, selecting the right gas can for overlanding is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Consider your needs and the conditions you’ll be facing on your trip, and choose a gas can that will keep you fueled and safe throughout your journey. With the right gas can and a solid plan in place, you’ll be well on your way to a successful overlanding adventure.

Our Favorite Fuel Storage of 2024!

RotopaX RX-1G Gasoline Pack Image

RotopaX RX-1G Gasoline Pack

★★★★★ (4.8)

  • 3 Gallon Fuel Storage
  • Compatible with other RotopaX Containers
  • 2.2 lb Unloaded
  • 14 x 9.5 x 3.1 inches
  • EPA & CARB Approved

Price Tested: $69.99 USD

The RotopaX RX-1G Gasoline Pack is the best way to bring fuel with you on your gear in the most hidden. Rotopax is durable, built with high-quality materials makes getting extra gas a piece of mind, straightforward and easy! The fuel storage mounts extremely conveniently and can be placed on any flat surface using RotoPAX’s proprietary mounts (sold separately.)

The packs are built of high-quality materials and are really tough, so they can handle everything throws at them. It has thicker walls and extra threads with a sure-seal gasket, ensuring that it will not vibrate loose or leak and materials that are less prone to fading or wearing out.

Mounted on the back of your off-road and Rotopax, we definitely go through any harsh environments. The exterior plastic held up to a beating, while the nozzle and cap never leaked. They are the perfect Overlandgas can for your outdoor experiences due to their du

Pros:

  • Mount anywhere
  • Compact and durable
  • Airtight seal
  • Lockable mounts

Cons:

  • Pricing
Wavian USA Red Authentic NATO Jerry Fuel Can  Image

Wavian USA Red Authentic NATO Jerry Fuel Can

★★★★★ (4.4)

  • 2 Pack
  • 5.3 Gallon Capacity
  • Jerry Can with Spout
  • Red or Green Options

Price Tested: $245.95 USD

Just like all gear is not made equal, neither are all jerry cans for Overlanding. And the Wavian USA Jerry Fuel Can (20 Liter) is no different. It’s able to hold all kinds of gasoline, diesel, and kerosene. Easy to use, straightforward to fill gas engines, and spill-free. Something that every no-spill garbage gas can we’ve ever tested has consistently failed to pull off.

This Wavian USA jerry might appear to be pricey (well, it is); however, it’s well-made and superior to “cheap” jerry cans. It’s well-built, seal well, and are comparable to the original German design from WWII. The Wavian can is without a doubt the one of the best jerry can for Overlanding. You can securely carry this container in your off-road as long as it is firmly anchored to avoid making noise.

Some customers, however, detest the CARB compliance spout and its pressure activation; nonetheless, the optional faucet help solves this issue. To be clear, we didn’t find any problem with the can, and it does what it was intended for—store and transport a large amount of gasoline, be tough and durable, and not be convenient and lightweight. Absolutely the best and easiest container to deal with when adding fuel while on your off-road adventures.

Pros:

  • Excellent fit and finish.
  • It Will lasts a lifetime.
  • Easy to use compliant spout.
  • Stays sealed under all conditions.

Cons:

  • Expensive but high quality.
Zhicheng Gasoline Cans Image

Zhicheng Gasoline Cans

★★★★★ (4.6)

  • 5 Gallon Capacity
  • Good for Diesel and Fuel
  • 15.18 pounds
  • 19.29 x 16.93 x 8.66 inches
  • Includes mount
  • EPA and CARB Approved

Price Tested: $69.89 USD

Many people associate jerry cans with a large red plastic contraption. This zhicheng Portable Fuel Tank, on the other hand, does not fall under this category. It is grey in color and made of premium stainless steel. The zhicheng earns a spot in our review for its exceptional value, offering a portable fuel tank size surprisingly low price.
It’s rather hefty in comparison to most other jerry cans. When empty, it weighs 7kg. And fill it with five gallons of petrol or diesel, and it will suddenly consider far more. This Automobile portable oil drum has one of the largest storage sizes (20 liters) and one of the lowest prices. Even though it has a simple design, it’s not the simplest to use, has a poor design, and is relatively thin.

The Zhicheng has extra thick, high-quality iron construction, a tiny footprint cabinet, a 20-liter capacity (5.28-gallons), a grey gloss finish, and anti-corrosive coating on the interior and outside, as well as a safety spout and lock. It has exceptional durability, is made of high-quality materials, and makes carrying an additional amount of gasoline relatively quick and straightforward.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Does not leak
  • Heavy duty
  • Large enough to fulfill your needs

Cons:

  • Poor build quality
  • Paint flake away
Rotopax Diesel Pack (2 Galon) Image

Rotopax Diesel Pack (2 Galon)

★★★★★ (4.7)

  • 2 Gallon Storage Capacity
  • Diesel Yellow Color
  • Compatable with RotopaX mounts
  • 3.7 pound empty
  • 18.5 x 14 x 3 inches Dimensions

Price Tested: $87.95 USD

Rotopax continues to make an immediate positive impression in the offroad game, and this Rotopax RX-2d diesel pack 2gal earns a top ranking with its versatile design and premium-quality construction. This fuel storage has also proved itself a handy addition, mainly when Overlanding. Even though it’s pricey, it’s durable and tough enough to resist being wrecked on several occasions with no symptoms of damage. It’s simple to install on an ATV, snowmobile, or any offroad vehicle.

They are well-constructed for all-weather situations and show no signs of wear. Its rotating linking technique is innovative and simple to use, and we like the ability to stack and lock cans onto the rig, and, oh yeah, they look outstanding as well. Each container includes an Eco spout, which is flexible and allows you to quickly fill your vehicle with fuel. Because of its flat design, it’s simple to store in any position, and the spout ensures that it’s ready to use when needed.

Apart from the size, both Rotopax containers operate similarly and do not require different sized mounting kits and mounting kits sold separately. The cans are held in place via Rotopax’s innovative locking technology. Overall, RotopaX makes an excellent product and one that we can thoroughly recommend.

Pros:

  • Lockable
  • Easy-to-use
  • Leak-proof
  • Durable with thicker walls.

Cons:

  • Pricy, but absolutely worth it
  • Mounting kit, which is sold separately

Frequently Asked Questions About Fuel Storage

How much fuel should you carry when overlanding?

At a minimum try and carry twice the necessary fuel needed for a given stretch between gas stations. This estimate takes into account potential 0 fuel events such as a fuel leak.

For example, if the greatest distance between gas stations is 50 miles, and your rig runs at 10 MPG on the trail, then you would want to carry 5 gallons of fuel.

Where should I store extra fuel for overlanding?

We recommend storing your fuel outside of the cabin of your vehicle. We utilize a spare tire fuel mount, which keeps us safe if there is a fuel leak or spill from the fuel can.

Related Gear Reviews