Water Storage: How Much Is Really Enough?

[MarigoldBreeze]

Most guidelines say one gallon per person per day, but that’s for basic needs—drinking and minimal hygiene. In a real crisis, especially with physical activity or hot weather, that may not be enough. Has anyone calculated a more realistic daily amount, factoring in things like cooking or medical needs? Also, curious about what containers folks trust most for long-term storage. I rotate my water every six months, but is that overkill?

 

[BlueHarborTea]

In a real crisis, especially with physical activity or hot weather, that may not be enough. Has anyone calculated a more realistic daily amount, factoring in things like cooking or medical needs? Also, curious about what containers folks trust most for long-term storage.

Completely agree that the basic gallon-a-day rule feels low if you’re doing more than just sitting around. I usually plan for closer to 2 gallons per person per day to cover drinking, light washing, some cooking, and just in case someone isn’t feeling well. For storage, food-grade barrels with tight-sealing lids have worked best for me, and I rotate the water every six months. Has anyone tried those stackable containers? I worry about leaks with those over the long term.