Choosing a 50-gallon (or 55-gallon) plastic barrel depends on your storage needs, intended contents, and where you’ll use it. This guide highlights five solid options and explains who each is best for. Whether you’re planning emergency water storage, rainwater collection, or bulk liquid handling, you’ll find a practical choice below. The recommended products balance durability, safety, and versatility for homeowners, small businesses, and preparedness enthusiasts alike.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel | Emergency prep, BPA-free storage | BPA-free tight-head design with dual fittings |
| RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel | Rainwater harvesting | UV-resistant and easy overflow management |
| Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum | Hazardous or sensitive material storage | Open head lab pack with regulatory-focused use |
| Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage | Home emergency water storage | Food-grade, BPA-free for long-term reliability |
| BayTec 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel | General purpose water storage | UN-DOT certified versatility and new blue design |
HOANK 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel
Brand: HOANK
Features: This heavy-duty plastic drum offers a spacious 55-gallon capacity, ideal for industrial, laboratory, or commercial storage and transportation. Its BPA-free tight head design ensures secure containment and minimizes leakage. It includes dual fittings (2-inch NPT and 2-inch Buttress) for flexible pumping and transfer options.
Best for: Buyers needing a large, BPA-free storage solution with versatile fittings for different pumping systems. Particularly suitable for bulk liquids or dry goods in business or lab settings.
Caution: Check compatibility of fittings with your transfer equipment to avoid mismatches. Large volume storage requires proper stacking and securing to prevent tipping.
U.S. Military Surplus 58 Gallon Barrel
Brand: Generic
Features: Durable food-grade HDPE construction designed for longevity. Originally used by the U.S. military, offering a proven storage solution. Provides a spacious 58-gallon capacity for emergency food prep, gear storage, or rainwater collection.
Best for: Buyers seeking rugged, military-grade style barrels for long-term storage with a focus on resilience and roomy capacity.
Caution: Not all surplus barrels are guaranteed free of prior contents; verify cleanliness if repurposing for fresh water or food.
RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel
Brand: RTS Home Accents
Features: 50-gallon capacity for harvesting rainwater, UV-resistant polyethylene construction for outdoor durability, and an overflow valve to manage excess water and allow linking multiple barrels for expanded storage.
Best for: Homeowners seeking a reliable rainwater collection system with easy expansion and outdoor durability.
Caution: Ensure proper installation to prevent overflow or leaks in heavy rainfall scenarios; check alignment of spigot when connecting hoses or fittings.
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid
Brand: Eagle
Features: Designed for regulatory compliance with lid options suited to specific materials, durable blow-molded HDPE, and weather and chemical resistance. Intended for storing non-leaking hazardous materials and various containers.
Best for: Users handling regulated or potentially hazardous contents who need a compliant, sturdy drum with a secure lid. Not ideal for free liquids unless lid and seal are verified for those contents.
Caution: Not recommended for free liquids without confirming suitability of the lid and seal for liquids that may spill or vent.
BayTec 55 Gallon Blue Water Barrel
Brand: BayTec
Features: New blue closed-top, BPA-free water barrel designed for drinking water use. UN-DOT certified, with suitability for rainwater and general water storage. Available across multiple sizes including 55 gallons.
Best for: Buyers focusing on safe, blue, closed-top barrels for potable water storage and long-term resilience in outdoor settings.
Caution: Despite UN-DOT certification, always verify local regulations and ensure proper sealing when transporting or storing liquids.
Buying Guide
Key purchase considerations for 50–55 gallon plastic barrels include material safety, compatibility, and intended use. The following questions help narrow choices:
- What will you store? Water, food-grade items, or chemicals require different lids, seals, and certifications.
- Do you need a closed-top or open-head design? Closed tops reduce contamination risk, while open-head styles may simplify access for certain uses.
- Is the barrel for indoor or outdoor use? Look for UV resistance, weather durability, and stackability for space efficiency.
- What fittings are required? Dual fittings (NPT and Buttress) offer compatibility with varied pumps and connectors.
- Do you need portability? Consider handle design, weight when full, and whether the drum is stackable for storage.
- Are there regulatory or safety requirements? For hazardous materials, confirm compliance with local or industry standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best type of barrel for emergency water storage? A BPA-free, food-grade barrel with a tight head and a secure cap is typically ideal for potable water.
- Can I use a 55-gallon barrel for rainwater collection? Yes, especially UV-resistant polyethylene barrels with an overflow valve and compatible spigot.
- Are 50-gallon and 55-gallon barrels the same? They’re similar in capacity; some brands label them 50 gal while others use 55 gal. Always check exact capacity in product specs.
- Should I choose a closed-head or open-head drum? Closed-head drums reduce contamination and are generally safer for storage of liquids, while open-head drums are easier for frequent access.
- Is it safe to store chemicals in these barrels? Only if the drum is rated for those chemicals and you follow regulatory guidance for containment and disposal.
- What maintenance is needed for outdoor rain barrels? Regularly check for leaks, clean any sediment buildup, ensure the overflow system is clear, and inspect seals and lids.