I Tested Dozens of Water Bottles. This Compact, Leak-Proof Owala Is the Only One You Need for Flights and Beyond
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Prices are accurate and items in stock at time of publishing.
Keeping drinking water on hand while you travel can be a huge pain. You need a water bottle that won't leak or spill, can handle getting dropped on the airport floor, and isn't so enormous that it can't fit in your backpack's water bottle pouch. Ideally, it's not atrocious-looking either. I finally found the one when I was testing travel accessories for the 2026 Men's Journal Travel Awards. The Owala FreeSip was easily my top pick for best travel water bottle. Here's what made it stand out.
Why the Owala FreeSip Is the Best Travel Water Bottle
Courtesy Image
The 24-ounce Owala FreeSip easily fits into most seatback pockets for quick access when thirst strikes. It comes in 33 different colors and three different sizes to fit your needs. It also has all the bells and whistles you expect from a water bottle these days: It’s leak-proof with a one-push lock and open functionality, keeps water cold for up to 24 hours, and, as an Owala signature, you have the option to sip through the built-in straw or take a big gulp from the wide-mouth opening.
Owala FreeSip
- Capacity: 19- to 40-oz options
- Insulation: Double-wall vacuum (keeps drinks cold ~24 hrs)
- Lid: FreeSip spout (straw + chug opening)
- Material: BPA-free stainless steel
- Features: Carry loop, cupholder-friendly sizes
Why You Should Trust Me
I considered the most important travel accessories across sleep, tech, health, organization, and recreation. A combination of personal testing and reviews, conversations with industry experts, and feedback from other travel enthusiasts helped round out the list.