Finding a compact, reliable water storage option for a truck bed or overlanding setup can be challenging. This guide highlights five practical choices that maximize capacity while staying tucked under the radar of your truck bed’s profile. Each product features a low-profile design, secure mounting options, and user-friendly accessories to support camping showers, off-road adventures, or mobile water needs. Read on to compare options, key specs, and buying considerations to choose the right fit for your vehicle setup.
| Product | Brand | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Tecoom 8 Gallon Portable Water Tank | Tecoom | Tele scopic hose, self-pressurizing pump, universal compatibility |
| Class A Customs 66 Gallon Water Holding Tank | classAcustoms | NSF approved materials, dual 1.5″ and 0.5″ fittings |
| UWS 69-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box (Low Profile) | uws | RigidCore lid, extra-thick aluminum, low profile with secure handles |
| Bestwyll Electric Remote Retractable Hard Truck Bed Tonneau Cover | Bestwyll | Low profile, rain/dust protection, rack-ready |
| UWS 69-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Deep Slim Tool Box | uws | Slim profile, RigidCore lid, secure stainless handles |
Tecoom 8 Gallon Portable Water Tank
The Tecoom 8 Gallon Portable Water Tank is designed for camp showers, overlanding, and off-road vehicle setups. Its dimensions (59″ x 12″ x 6″) and light 19.8 lb empty weight enable easy mounting on truck bed rails, luggage racks, crossbars, or leveling frames. The product includes two pack mount locks for secure attachment and a telescopic water hose that tucks away neatly when not in use. A 2.5m water hose and 1.5m extension hose (extending up to 5 meters when filled) support flexible shower setups, while two water shower heads provide multiple spray patterns. The built-in self-pressurizing 12V electric pump draws power from a cigarette lighter, delivering stable, continuous water pressure for hands-free operation. This combination makes it suitable for camping showers, mobile wash stations, and other outdoor water needs.
Key features include:
– Universal compatibility with vehicle racks and bed rails
– Telescopic hose that minimizes exposed piping and sun exposure
– Self-pressurized water pump powered by 12V source
– Extended hose lengths for flexible showering and rinsing
Class A Customs 66 Gallon Fresh Water Holding Tank
The Class A Customs 66 Gallon Fresh Water Holding Tank is a robust option for larger camping setups, food trucks, or RVs. This tank is manufactured from NSF-approved materials and is suitable for both fresh and gray water storage. Its dimensions are approximately 33.375 inches long, 25.375 inches wide, and 18.5 inches tall, with an average thickness of 7/32 inch. The tank is designed to sit on its side or be rotated to adjust height or width, offering placement flexibility in a truck bed or compact storage area. It includes two 1.5″ female NPT fittings and two 0.5″ fittings, with careful guidance not to over-tighten. Notes mention small manufacturing variances, which may affect exact fit in some applications.
UWS 69-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile, RigidCore Lid
The UWS EC10473 is a robust low-profile, heavy-wall aluminum tool box designed for truck beds. It features RigidCore lid technology for maximum lid strength, reducing binding and easing operation. The one-piece tub is crafted from welded 0.058-inch aluminum and is complemented by stainless steel paddle handles for secure, long-lasting use in varying weather conditions. While primarily a tool box, this product’s low-profile design helps conserve bed space for other gear, including water tanks, making it suitable for compact, multi-use truck bed setups.
UWS 72-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Truck Tool Box with Low Profile
This 72-inch UWS tool box emphasizes a rigid core lid and extra-thick aluminum construction. The low-profile design provides substantial storage without intruding significantly into the truck bed’s vertical space. Stainless steel paddle handles offer reliable operation and security, while the slim profile helps to maximize space for a water storage container, camping gear, or other overlanding essentials.
UWS 69-Inch Gloss Black Heavy-Wall Aluminum Deep Slim Tool Box
The UWS EC10842 offers a deep, slim profile with a low lid to maximize bed space while ensuring strong aluminum construction. The RigidCore lid continues to provide smooth operation and reduces binding, with stainless steel paddle handles ensuring durability. Like the other UWS models, it is designed to withstand outdoor conditions and vehicle-mounted usage, making it a practical companion when arranging a compact water storage setup alongside essential tools and equipment.
UWS 69-Inch Heavy-Wall Aluminum Deep Slim Truck Tool Box
This 69-inch deep slim model continues the UWS emphasis on high-strength aluminum, slim profile, and secure stainless steel handles. It supports a compact footprint while still delivering reliable storage; its design pairs well with a mobile water tank when space is a premium consideration in a truck bed or overland trailer setup. The combination of a sturdy lid, corrosion resistance, and easy access aligns with needs for a streamlined, versatile vehicle storage system.
Buying Guide — Key Purchase Considerations
- Storage capacity vs. space: For truck beds, balance water capacity with available space. Larger tanks like 66 gallons offer long-range supply but require significant bed real estate, while smaller tanks (8 gallons) fit tighter layouts better.
- Mounting options: Look for mounting hardware and compatibility with luggage racks, crossbars, or bed rails. Secure mounting reduces movement on rough terrain and prevents damage to both the tank and vehicle.
- Materials and safety: NSF-approved materials for fresh water storage provide safety for drinking water. For gray water, ensure compatibility with intended use and proper ventilation to minimize odors and contamination.
- Pumps and plumbing: Self-pressurizing or pump-assisted systems simplify water delivery, especially when a power source is available (e.g., 12V cigarette lighter). Hose length and extendable options affect showering flexibility and reach.
- Durability and weather resistance: Exterior materials (HDPE, aluminum) and sealed fittings resist UV exposure, temperature changes, and corrosion—critical for outdoor, on-truck use.
- Integrated accessories: Consider included hoses, shower heads, and fittings, as well as the ability to upgrade with longer hoses or additional nozzles for different activities.
- Weight distribution: Heavier tanks affect payload and handling. Plan the load distribution to avoid impacting handling, especially for off-road or high-speed driving.
- Maintenance and cleaning: Tanks with smooth interiors and easy-to-clean fittings reduce contamination risks and simplify winterization or seasonal use.