Note: this is going to be a long term test and review, therefore, the article will be updated with new information and new images as we continue using the EZPack products.
Overlanding rigs are often equipped with built-in water tanks. However, a portable water storage solution is still necessary. As you know sometimes water sources might not be accessible by vehicle. In those situations, it is not possible to fill up the built-in water tank directly. Plus, some overlanders prefer non-built-in solutions. That’s when the portable water storage products come into play.
When it comes to portable water containers, a company named EZPack-USA stands out. This is a California-based company that develops and manufactures unique solutions for water storage and distribution.
Right now, they have 2 products that are portable water containers. They are using a patented design on these containers incorporating 2-layer technology.
This solution makes these containers the first-ever collapsible water containers with replaceable inserts. EZPack-USA’s main aim is to offer useful water solution products for outdoor enthusiasts and for Home Emergency Preparedness.
In this post, we will review 2 of their portable water containers.
Review of the EZPack Products
Here we are going to review 2 EZPack products which are JerryFlex and the Water Storage Bladder. Both of these products have almost the same features and build quality, so we will review both of them here. First off, let’s talk about how they work.
Simply put, these products are actually portable water containers. These can come in handy whether you are a camper, overlander, a hunter or fisherman. When traveling to remote areas, you can use these portable water containers to store water for cooking, drinking, and cleaning.
Both these containers have two layers. The external shell of these portable water containers is made of military-grade material. So they are leak-proof, puncture-resistant, and ready to withstand harsh field conditions.
In addition, the sturdy outer shell protects the inner layer from getting damaged. In our experience, one of the weakest points of most portable water containers is the faucet. But in the case of the EZPack portable water containers, it is different.
Both the JerryFlex and the water storage bladder come with heavy-duty faucets that are made out of rugged ABS plastic. It’s well-thought-out, as you can also attach a garden hose to the faucet to fill up the JerryFlex quickly.
These water containers are sturdy yet flexible. For that reason, these will not break if you accidentally drop them. Also, they can withstand pressure, which means you can actually apply pressure on them if you want to shower and you need a bit of water pressure, rather than just let gravity work. Also, if not full, they use less space in the vehicle.
Both the containers come with sturdy straps. For instance, the JerryFlex is equipped with both handle and shoulder straps. So you can carry it as a backpack as well. Admittedly, the shoulder straps are a bit narrow, so they may not be comfortable to carry the water containers for a long distance.
However, EZPack advised that they’re considering adding wider straps to the products. The shoulder straps’ only purpose is to carry the water from the source to your camp or vehicle. It wasn’t made for hiking the El Camino.
In addition, you can secure it to your vehicle for safe transportation using the straps.
Make sure to read the section on ‘Using recovery straps for towing vehicles‘
It is also compatible with a NATO or standard jerry can holder. While empty, the size of the JerryFlex is reduced to 20%, which allows for easy storage. On the other hand, the water storage bladder comes with 4 durable carrying handles, no shoulder straps. These straps can also be used to secure it to your vehicle.
Better yet, when empty, the size of the water storage bladder is reduced by 80%. This makes it highly portable and easy to store.
One of the most useful features of these containers is the replaceable inserts. These inner liners are made of BPA-free, food-grade material.
That means you are getting fresh tasting water all the time. Another good side of these inserts is that you don’t need to clean and dry the container every time. Because you can replace the internal liners whenever you need to. This will save you from the hassle and will save your time as well.
The inserts are inexpensive, but that doesn’t mean that you will need to replace the inserts every time. One insert can be cleaned and used for a long time. This is also our plan. Of course, when it comes to replacing the inserts, you should definitely recycle them.
For the record, recycling is possible through everyone’s local plastic recycling program.
It is very easy to replace the inner bladder. You will find zippers on the side of the outer shell, through which you can easily access the insert. The inserts in both these portable containers have large openings.
As a result, it is very easy to fill them. Also, the large opening will allow you to put ice cubes in the container. On top of that, you can easily attach a garden hose to the faucet directly to fill the container fast. The large opening also helps to empty and clean the container quickly.
Available Sizes and Colors
When it comes to size and color, EZPack is offering various options. For instance, the JerryFlex is available in 3 colors – desert, blue, and green. The water storage bladder is available in blue color only.
Available Sizes and Weights of the JerryFlex
Dimensions When Full
- 2.5 gallon: 12 x 12 x 5.5 inches
- 5 gallon: 13 x 17 x 5.5 inches
Weight When Full / Empty
- 2.5 gallon: 23 / 1.3 lbs.
- 5 gallon: 44 / 1.7 lbs.
Available Sizes and Weights of the Water Storage Bladder
Dimensions When Full
- 5 gallon: 23.5x20x8 inches
- 10 gallon: 27.5×23.5×8 inches
- 25 gallon: 33.5×37.5×8 inches
- 50 gallon: 37.5x43x8 inches
Weight When Full / Empty
- 5 gallon: 45 / 1.7 lbs.
- 10 gallon: 90 / 2.5 lbs.
- 25 gallon: 225 / 4 lbs.
- 50 gallon: 450 / 5 lbs.
Price
EZPack has priced these products reasonably – not expensive and not cheap either. In short, both these portable water containers are great value for money, especially when you consider the sturdiness. The fact that you will be able to avoid broken faucets and broken outer shells will save you a ton of money over the long run.
Also, you will get a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty with both these containers. The replacement inserts are sold in convenient 3-pack separately.
Closing Thoughts
These portable water tanks are perfect for overlanders. You can also use them for Home Emergency Preparedness. As you can see, these water containers have some unique features that other portable water solutions don’t. With a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty, you can have that peace of mind that EZPack are behind their product.
Because of its sturdy and flexible build, it should last a long time. Plus, there is no worry about washing and cleaning it up every time. You will get fresh-tasting, mold, and pathogen-free water without much hassle. Better yet, these are portable and easy to store.
As a matter of fact, we are using it at the moment and testing it long-term. Soon, we will report back more on its durability and user-friendliness.
We will also keep you updated about this product on our social media accounts. Up until now, we can say that if you are looking for portable water containers for camping or overlanding, then both the EZPack JerryFlex and Water Bladder could be great options.
