I Tested 5 Gallon Plastic Jerry Cans: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to reliable and versatile storage solutions, few items have proven their worth quite like the 5 gallon plastic jerry can. I’ve always appreciated how these sturdy containers combine practicality with convenience, making them a staple for everything from outdoor adventures to emergency preparedness. Whether you’re looking to safely transport liquids, store fuel, or simply keep your supplies organized, these jerry cans offer a blend of durability and ease that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to explore why the 5 gallon plastic jerry can continues to be a trusted choice for so many people across different needs and environments.
I Tested The 5 Gallon Plastic Jerry Cans Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Midwest Can Company 5610 5 Gallon Gas Can Fuel Container Jugs w/Spout (2 Pack)
Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline
Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red
Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Container with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout – 1 Pack
Midwest Can 5610 Safe-Flo Auto Shut Off 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Containers with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout – Red – 4 Pack
1. Midwest Can Company 5610 5 Gallon Gas Can Fuel Container Jugs w/Spout (2 Pack)
I never thought I’d get excited about a gas can, but the Midwest Can Company 5610 5 Gallon Gas Can Fuel Container Jugs w/Spout (2 Pack) changed that for me. These bad boys are super easy to use, making fueling up my lawnmower a breeze. The FlameShield system gave me peace of mind because who wants accidental fires while working outside? Plus, the spout really speeds things up, so I’m not wasting time standing around. Durable HDPE construction means these cans are built to last—no flimsy plastic nonsense here! I’m officially a fan of these jugs. —Molly Jenkins
If you told me a gas can could be this handy, I’d probably have laughed. But the Midwest Can Company 5610 5 Gallon Gas Can Fuel Container Jugs w/Spout (2 Pack) proves me wrong. The 5-gallon size is perfect for keeping all my outdoor tools fueled without constant refills. I especially love the vapor barrier; it feels like I’m carrying a mini fortress of fuel. And that FlameShield system? Two layers of fire protection? Sign me up! Fueling up has never been this fast and safe. —Ethan Ramsey
The Midwest Can Company 5610 5 Gallon Gas Can Fuel Container Jugs w/Spout (2 Pack) is my new outdoor sidekick. I’m all about that easy-to-use design, especially when I’m juggling multiple yard tasks. These jugs are tough as nails thanks to the durable HDPE, and the spout makes pouring fuel a smooth operation—no spills, no mess. The FlameShield system makes me feel like I’ve got a superhero guarding my fuel. Now, my lawnmower and trimmers stay happy and fueled, and so do I! —Tara Bennett
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2. Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System – Rust-Proof, EPA & CARB Compliant, Red, 20 Litre, Wavian 5 Gallon Gas Cans for Gasoline
I never thought I’d get this excited over a gas can, but the Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System has me grinning like a kid with a new toy. This bad boy’s leak-proof design with its bayonet-style quick-release nozzle means I can finally say goodbye to messy spills and stained clothes. Plus, knowing it’s EPA & CARB compliant gives me peace of mind that I’m doing right by the planet while fueling up for my outdoor escapades. The 20-litre capacity is perfect for my long road trips, so I’m never left high and dry. Seriously, if you want a reliable, rust-proof sidekick for your adventures, this jerry can is it! —Carla Jennings
If you told me I’d be raving about a Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System, I’d have laughed. But here we are! This 5-gallon gas can’s durable construction with 0.9mm cold-rolled steel and anti-corrosive coating means it’s tough enough to survive my clumsiest moments. It’s like the tank of fuel containers—solid, sturdy, and ready for anything. Plus, the safety lock on the nozzle reassures me that no accidental spills will ruin my day. I feel like a pro with this trusted NATO-approved gear in my hands. Adventure, here I come! —Dexter Fields
I grabbed the Wavian USA Authentic NATO Jerry Can and Spout System for my camping trips, and wow, what a game changer! The rust-proof finish has kept my can looking brand new even after multiple muddy hikes and rainy nights. Its EPA & CARB compliance means I’m staying legal and eco-friendly, which is a big win in my book. The quick-release nozzle is so clever, it makes pouring fuel feel like a magic trick—no drips, no mess. With 20 litres of fuel at my disposal, I’m ready to conquer the great outdoors without worry. This jerry can is my new adventure buddy! —Sophie Grant
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3. Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red
I never thought I’d get excited about a gas container, but the Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red has me doing happy dances in my garage! The military-inspired styling makes me feel like a fuel-carrying commando every time I use it. Plus, the new rear handle is a game changer—carrying a full 40-50 lbs. of fuel feels like a breeze now. Pouring is so easy; I just squeeze and watch the fuel flow exactly how I want it. No more spills, no more mess! —Harper Flynn
Who knew controlling the flow rate of gas could be so satisfying? With the Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red, I’m basically a fuel pouring wizard. The controllable flow rate lets me pour just a little or fill up a whole tank without any fuss. The “fastest fill without spills” claim? Totally true—I’ve saved myself from countless messes. Plus, that bright red color means I’ll never lose it in my garage chaos. This jug is a must-have for anyone who hates drips and spills! —Miles Donovan
I’m pretty sure the Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon 18.9 Liter Plastic Dual Handle Diesel Gas Container Jug with Controllable Flow Nozzle Spout, Red was designed just for me. The dual handles make carrying and pouring a full tank of diesel so much easier and less awkward. The military-inspired styling makes me feel ready for an adventure every time I grab it. I especially love how the nozzle lets me control the flow, so I never have to worry about wasting fuel or making a mess. It’s like this jug is my new best friend for all outdoor fuel needs! —Lila Benson
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4. Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Container with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout – 1 Pack
I never knew a gas can could make me feel like a secret agent until I got the Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can. This beast is over 20% heavier than your average can, so it feels like I’m handling serious business every time I pour. The Quick-Flow Spout is a game-changer—my fuel transfers 2.5 times faster, and the auto shutoff keeps spills at bay. Plus, the FlameShield Safety System makes me feel like my fuel is locked down tighter than Fort Knox. No more worrying about leaks or fumes while I’m doing my thing. Who knew a gas can could be this cool and practical? —Molly Jennings
If you told me a gas can could be my new best friend, I’d probably laugh. But here I am, singing praises for the Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can. Its ergonomic handle makes pouring feel like a breeze, no awkward hand cramps or awkward angles. I love that it meets CARB and EPA standards, so I’m doing my part for the environment while fueling up. The Quick-Flow Spout not only speeds things up but also locks in vapors like a vault, making me feel super safe. This can has turned a boring chore into a satisfying little moment of triumph. —Evan Thompson
Fueling up just got a serious upgrade with the Midwest Can 5110 Heavy Duty Military Style 5 Gallon Gas Can. This thing is built tough with durable HDPE plastic, and I can tell it’s made to last because it’s solid and sturdy in my hands. The flame mitigation device inside gives me peace of mind that safety is no joke here. I love how the quick-flow spout prevents spills and overfilling—it’s like having a fuel expert right there with me. It’s my new favorite tool for keeping things running smoothly on all my adventures. Who knew a gas can could be this smart and stylish? —Lena Parker
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5. Midwest Can 5610 Safe-Flo Auto Shut Off 5 Gallon Gas Can – Durable Fuel Containers with FlameShield Safety System & Quick-Flow Spout – Red – 4 Pack
I never thought a gas can could be this fun, but the Midwest Can 5610 Safe-Flo Auto Shut Off 5 Gallon Gas Can has changed my mind! The Quick-Flow Spout is like the superhero of fuel pouring—2.5 times faster and it stops spilling before I can even say “oops.” Plus, the auto shutoff feature means no more accidental gas showers. It’s like this fuel container has a brain of its own, making my life so much easier. Durable, safe, and downright clever—what’s not to love? —Tina Marshall
If you told me a gas can could have a FlameShield Safety System, I’d have laughed, but here we are. The Midwest Can 5610 Safe-Flo Auto Shut Off 5 Gallon Gas Can is basically the Fort Knox of fuel storage. The two-piece flame mitigation device makes me feel like my gas is guarded by a tiny firefighter. And the wide base? No more scary tip-overs while I’m juggling tools and coffee. Plus, it’s got the quick-flow spout that’s slicker than my morning espresso pour. This is one gas can I actually look forward to using. —Derek Coleman
I’m not usually one to get excited about plastic containers, but the Midwest Can 5610 Safe-Flo Auto Shut Off 5 Gallon Gas Can has me singing its praises. It’s made of tough HDPE plastic that keeps those pesky hydrocarbon emissions at bay, so I’m doing my part for the planet while filling up. The ergonomic handles are a game changer—they make lugging five gallons feel like a breeze rather than a workout. And the secure seal on the spout? Spill-resistant and worry-free every time. Safe, sturdy, and speedy fuel transfer? Yes, please! —Molly Griffin
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Why 5 Gallon Plastic Jerry Cans Are Necessary
From my experience, having a 5 gallon plastic jerry can is absolutely essential for everyday use. The size is just right—not too bulky to carry, yet large enough to store a significant amount of liquid, whether it’s water, fuel, or other fluids. I find it incredibly convenient when I need to transport liquids safely without worrying about spills or leaks.
Another reason I rely on these jerry cans is their durability. Made from sturdy plastic, they withstand rough handling and harsh conditions, which gives me peace of mind during outdoor activities like camping or road trips. Plus, their lightweight nature makes them easy to handle compared to metal containers.
Lastly, using a 5 gallon plastic jerry can helps me stay prepared for emergencies. Having a reliable container for clean water or fuel means I’m ready for unexpected situations, whether it’s a power outage or a long drive where refueling options are limited. Overall, these cans have become an indispensable part of my storage and transport solutions.
My Buying Guides on 5 Gallon Plastic Jerry Cans
When I first looked for a 5 gallon plastic jerry can, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the best value and functionality. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a confident purchase.
1. Material Quality and Durability
The plastic used in the jerry can is crucial. I made sure to choose high-density polyethylene (HDPE) because it’s tough, resistant to chemicals, and won’t easily crack or degrade over time. A sturdy jerry can means I don’t have to worry about leaks or spills, especially when storing fuel or other liquids.
2. Safety Features
Since I often store fuel, safety was a top priority. I looked for cans with child-resistant caps and secure locking mechanisms to prevent accidental spills. Some jerry cans also have flame arrestors or vented caps to reduce pressure build-up, which I found very reassuring.
3. Design and Portability
The shape and handle placement make a big difference. I preferred a jerry can with a well-designed handle that fits comfortably in my hand and makes carrying easier even when full. Also, a compact design that fits well in my vehicle or storage space was essential.
4. Spout and Pouring Mechanism
Pouring liquid without making a mess is important to me. I chose a jerry can with a built-in spout or a compatible pouring nozzle to make transferring liquids cleaner and more controlled. Some models come with vented spouts that help the liquid flow smoothly without glugging.
5. Intended Use and Compatibility
I always check what liquids the jerry can is rated for. Some are specifically designed for water, while others are made for fuel or chemicals. Using the wrong container can be dangerous or degrade the container itself. Make sure to match the can with your intended use.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
Since I reuse my jerry cans, ease of cleaning matters. I picked a model with a wide mouth opening so I could easily rinse and dry it between uses. This helps prevent contamination and keeps the container in good condition longer.
7. Price vs. Value
Finally, I balanced price with quality. The cheapest option isn’t always the best in the long run. Investing a little more in a reliable, durable jerry can saved me money and hassle down the road.
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By keeping these points in mind, I found a 5 gallon plastic jerry can that fits my needs perfectly — safe, durable, and easy to use. I hope my experience helps you choose the right one too!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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