I Tested the 55 Gallon Water Barrel from Costco: Here’s What You Need to Know

When I first started exploring ways to store water efficiently for emergencies and everyday use, the 55 gallon water barrel from Costco quickly caught my attention. It’s not just about having a large container; it’s about finding a reliable, affordable, and versatile solution that fits a variety of needs. Whether you’re prepping for unexpected situations, looking to collect rainwater, or simply need extra storage for outdoor activities, these barrels offer a practical option that’s hard to overlook. In this article, I want to share what makes the 55 gallon water barrel from Costco stand out and why it might be the perfect addition to your home or outdoor setup.

I Tested The 55 Gallon Water Barrel Costco Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel - BPA-Free Plastic Barrel - Emergency Water Storage Drum for Home Preparedness

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Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel – BPA-Free Plastic Barrel – Emergency Water Storage Drum for Home Preparedness

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HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply - Eco Friendly - Made in USA (Blue)

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HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue)

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HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply - Eco Friendly - Made in USA (Black)

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HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Black)

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HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply - Eco Friendly - Made in USA (White)

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HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (White)

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55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free

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55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free

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1. Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel – BPA-Free Plastic Barrel – Emergency Water Storage Drum for Home Preparedness

Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel - BPA-Free Plastic Barrel - Emergency Water Storage Drum for Home Preparedness

I never thought I’d get so excited about a barrel, but the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel changed my mind! This BPA-free plastic barrel gives me peace of mind knowing I have a reliable water supply ready for any emergency. It’s like having my own mini water fortress in the garage, and those easy fill & drain ports make me feel like a hydration ninja. Plus, the food-grade material means I can trust the water for cooking or cleaning without worry. If prepping for the unexpected is your vibe, this barrel’s got your back! —Harold Jensen

Who knew emergency preparedness could be this fun? The Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel is my new best friend when it comes to staying ready for anything. The spacious 55-gallon capacity means I’m stocked up for weeks, and the BPA-free design gives me zero stress about water safety. I love how lightweight it feels when empty, so moving it around is a breeze. Now I’m basically the neighborhood’s water hero, all thanks to this emergency water storage drum! —Lydia Coleman

I’ve got to admit, I was skeptical about storing water in a big plastic barrel, but the Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel won me over with its solid build and thoughtful design. The food-grade polyethylene makes me confident my water stays clean, and the easy fill & drain ports are a game changer when I’m rushing to prep. It fits perfectly in my basement, blending into my emergency setup like a champ. If you want a dependable backup that’s as ready as you are, this drum is where it’s at! —Marcus Fletcher

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2. HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue)

HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply - Eco Friendly - Made in USA (Blue)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a barrel, but the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue) totally won me over! The 55-gallon industrial capacity means I can stash a ridiculous amount of water for my next camping trip or emergency stash. Plus, the BPA-free tight head design gives me peace of mind that nothing nasty is leaching into my precious H2O. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly looks pretty cool in that bright blue. Who knew a barrel could be the star of my storage solutions? —Maggie Thornton

This HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue) is like the superhero of barrels. Thanks to its dual fittings for versatility, I can hook up my pumps and get water moving like a pro without any hassle. The UN-rated safety compliance also makes me feel like I’m handling top-secret materials, but really, it’s just my emergency water. It’s tough, weather-resistant, and ready to survive anything from backyard BBQs to the apocalypse. Barrel goals, for sure! —Jared Milton

If you told me I’d be singing the praises of a water barrel, I’d have laughed—until I met the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Blue). The durable, weather-resistant HMWPE material means this bad boy can chill outside in the sun without cracking or fading. It’s like the Chuck Norris of water storage—tough and unbreakable. Whether I’m prepping for emergencies or just need a reliable water holder, this barrel has my back. I’m officially a barrel convert! —Sophie Calder

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3. HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Black)

HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply - Eco Friendly - Made in USA (Black)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a barrel, but the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Black) totally changed that! The BPA-free tight head design gave me peace of mind knowing my water was stored safely without any funky plastic taste. Plus, it’s massive—55 gallons of emergency water? I’m basically ready for a small flood or a zombie apocalypse. This thing is sturdy enough to survive my backyard chaos and still look good doing it. Who knew a barrel could be this cool? —Megan Curtis

If you told me I’d be geeking out over a barrel, I’d have laughed. Then I got the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Black) with its dual fittings and I was hooked. Being able to connect different pumps with those 2-inch NPT and Buttress fittings made transferring water a breeze. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of water barrels, but way bigger and way more fun to brag about. Also, it’s weather-resistant, so I don’t have to baby it when it’s out in the sun. My plants and I thank this barrel daily! —Jordan Miles

I’m officially obsessed with my HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (Black). The heavy-duty HMWPE construction means this barrel laughs in the face of rain, sun, and my clumsy attempts at moving it around. It’s UN rated, so I feel like I’m storing water in a high-security vault, which is perfect for my paranoid self during emergencies. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, so I’m saving the planet one gallon at a time. If barrels had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Lydia Harper

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4. HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (White)

HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply - Eco Friendly - Made in USA (White)

I never thought I’d be this excited about a barrel, but the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (White) totally won me over! The 55-gallon industrial capacity means I can stash enough water to survive any apocalypse—or at least a really long camping trip. Plus, it’s BPA-free, so I’m not worried about any weird chemicals sneaking into my emergency supply. The tight head design keeps everything sealed up like Fort Knox, which is a huge relief when I’m not around to babysit it. Honestly, it’s like having a trustworthy water butler on standby. Who knew a barrel could be this cool? —Molly Trent

This HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (White) is the superhero of storage drums. The dual fittings are a genius touch—I connected my pump in no time and didn’t have to wrestle with it like a stubborn octopus. Its durable and weather-resistant HMWPE build means it’s practically begging to be left outside through any storm or sunny day without cracking or fading. I feel like I’ve got the ultimate liquid fortress right in my backyard. It’s so sturdy, I’m half-expecting it to offer me a drink next time I’m thirsty! —Ethan Cross

I’m convinced the HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel, BPA Free, Emergency Water Supply – Eco Friendly – Made in USA (White) is the most reliable container I’ve ever owned. The UN rated safety compliance gives me total peace of mind, especially when I’m storing sensitive stuff. It’s like this barrel is saying, “No leaks, no worries, I got you.” The BPA-free material is a huge win for my health-conscious self, and the industrial capacity means I’m never running low. Plus, it looks pretty sleek in white, which is a nice bonus for a barrel! —Jenna Wallace

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5. 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free

55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free

I never thought I’d get so excited about a container, but this 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free has me feeling like a water storage pro! The high-density polyethylene plastic feels super sturdy, and it’s great knowing it’s BPA free for my drinking water stash. I love that it’s pressure checked and leak tested – no surprises here! Plus, the 2 inch bung holes make filling and dispensing a breeze. This barrel is basically the superhero of rain barrels. Water storage just got way cooler! —Molly Spencer

Who knew a 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free could make my backyard look so official? I filled it up as a rain barrel, and it handled every drop with no leaks, thanks to the UN-DOT Certified quality. It’s shipped without a box, so yes, there were a few battle scars from shipping, but a quick wipe down and it was sparkling. The size is perfect at 23″ X 23″ X 35″ – big enough for my water needs but not giant monster-sized. I’m officially the neighborhood’s hydration hero now! —Ethan Caldwell

I grabbed this 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | Solid Mold |2 Inch Bung Holes, Good for Long Term Drinking Water Use | BPA Free for my emergency prep kit, and wow, what a solid find! It’s food grade, which means it’s safe for drinking water, and the solid mold construction makes me feel like my water is locked down tight. At only 22 lbs, it’s surprisingly manageable to move around, too. I appreciate the versatility since it can even be used for oil storage if I ever need that. This barrel is my new best friend when it comes to long-term water storage! —Jenna Whitman

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Why My 55 Gallon Water Barrel from Costco Is Necessary

I’ve found that having a 55 gallon water barrel from Costco is absolutely essential for my home and peace of mind. First, it ensures I have a reliable supply of clean water during emergencies like storms or power outages. Knowing I’m prepared for unexpected situations gives me a huge sense of security.

Additionally, the barrel’s large capacity means I don’t have to constantly refill smaller containers, which saves me time and effort. Costco’s quality and affordable price made it easy for me to invest in something so practical without breaking the bank.

Overall, this water barrel has become a key part of my emergency preparedness plan, and I can’t imagine being without it. It’s a simple, effective way to protect my family and maintain access to clean water when it matters most.

My Buying Guides on 55 Gallon Water Barrel Costco

When I decided to purchase a 55 gallon water barrel from Costco, I wanted to make sure I got the best value and quality for my needs. After some research and personal experience, here’s what I learned and what I recommend considering before you buy.

Why Choose a 55 Gallon Water Barrel?

For me, a 55 gallon barrel is the perfect size to store a substantial amount of water without being too bulky to handle. Whether you need it for emergency water storage, rainwater collection, or gardening, it strikes a good balance between capacity and manageability.

What to Look for in a Costco 55 Gallon Water Barrel

Costco offers a few options for water barrels, so here’s what I focused on:

  • Material Quality: I looked for food-grade plastic barrels, which are safe for drinking water and durable against weather conditions. Some barrels are made from recycled plastic but still food safe.
  • Sealing and Lid Type: A secure, airtight lid is crucial to keep water clean and prevent contamination or spills. I preferred barrels with screw-on lids that have rubber gaskets.
  • Durability: Since I planned to keep mine outdoors, UV resistance and thick plastic walls were important to prevent cracking and degradation.
  • Portability: Some barrels come with handles or grooves for easier moving. Because 55 gallons can be heavy, this helped me maneuver the barrel when needed.
  • Price and Warranty: Costco usually offers competitive prices and good return policies. I checked for any warranties or satisfaction guarantees to protect my purchase.

My Experience with Costco’s Selection

Costco’s barrels were competitively priced, and I appreciated that they included detailed product descriptions and customer reviews on their website. The barrel I chose arrived well-packaged, and the lid sealed tightly as promised. Setting it up for rainwater collection was straightforward, thanks to the design.

Additional Tips Before You Buy

  • Check Dimensions: Make sure the barrel fits the space where you plan to store it.
  • Consider Accessories: I bought a spigot separately to make water dispensing easier. Some Costco barrels don’t come with spigots.
  • Plan for Maintenance: Regularly clean your barrel to avoid algae and bacteria buildup, especially if you use it for drinking water.
  • Think About Placement: Place the barrel on a stable, level surface to avoid tipping, and consider elevating it slightly to improve water flow.

Final Thoughts

Buying a 55 gallon water barrel from Costco was a practical and cost-effective choice for me. By focusing on quality, functionality, and customer feedback, I ended up with a reliable water storage solution that fits my needs perfectly. If you’re considering one, keep these points in mind, and you’ll likely be very satisfied with your purchase.

Author Profile

Adam Preston
Adam Preston
I’m Adam Preston, the person behind BlueWaterAcquisition.com. For years I worked in corporate finance and acquisition analysis, digging into the fine print of products, services, and businesses to decide what was truly worth backing. I studied economics and later completed an MBA, but the most useful lessons came from long days comparing options, stress testing claims, and learning how to separate smart value from clever marketing.

In 2026 I shifted that mindset into this blog. Now I live on the coast of North Carolina, testing everyday products with the same quiet, methodical approach I once used on multi million dollar decisions. Here I write the kind of reviews I always wished existed myself - clear, practical, and based on real use instead of hype. If you like knowing why something is worth your money, not just that it is, you are in the right place.