Your Guide to Choosing the Right Water Tank for 4WDs, Caravans & RV's
Run out of water on the road? That’s a mistake you only make once. Out bush in the fourby or parked up in the van for a week, water storage is essential for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and even showers.
At Tuff Terrain, we specialise in rugged portable water storage designed for Australian conditions. From our own heavy-duty 4WD tanks to clever modular caravan setups, we understand the importance of reliable hydration.
This guide will walk you through why upgrading from jerry cans makes sense, how much water you really need, what to look for in a safe tank, and some of the best products for both 4x4s and caravans.
Why Upgrade from Jerry Cans?
Jerry cans are handy for quick trips, but they’re bulky, awkward to pack, and don’t hold enough water for longer journeys. A mounted tank is a smarter solution. You’ll free up space, balance the weight in your vehicle, and have a tap or hose ready to go.
Tip: Even if you install a tank, carry a small jerry can or water bladder as a backup in case of emergencies.
How Much Water Do You Need?
A good rule of thumb is 2 litres of drinking water per person per day. Add extra for cooking, washing, and showering.
- Weekend trip (couple): 20–50 litres
- Small family or multi-day touring: 50–100 litres
- Remote travel or long trips: 100 litres+ with a pump for convenience
Don’t forget—1 litre of water weighs 1 kilo. A 100L tank adds 100kg to your vehicle, so plan where the weight sits.
For cleaner water every refill, consider adding a pump and filtration system.
Materials & Safety
Not all tanks are made equal. The tanks from Tuff Terrain are built tough and safe for drinking water.
Look for these features:
- UV-stabilised to survive Aussie sun
- Food-grade polyethylene for safe, fresh water
Cheaper imports may skip these, which can lead to cracks, leaks, or unsafe drinking water.
Top 4WD Water Tanks
See every option, including 35L and 62L spare wheel tanks, in our 4WD water tanks range.
Tuff Terrain 42L Vertical Mount Tank
- Slim 75mm profile with wheel arch cut-outs
- UV-resistant, impact-proof poly
- ½" BSP brass outlet (fits standard plumbing)
- Mounts vertically against tub wall or canopy
Best for: Tight spaces in utes or canopies where you need fixed water storage.
Tuff Terrain 40L Poly Footwell Tank
- Fits in the rear passenger footwell of most 4x4s
- Transmission tunnel recess for a flush fit
- Two brass outlets (one each end)
- UV-stabilised polyethylene
Best for: Solo travellers or small families needing extra water without losing cargo space.
Tuff Terrain 62L Underbody Spare Wheel Tank
- Fits where your spare wheel used to sit
- Octagon-shaped: 730mm x 730mm x 200mm
- 62L capacity with baffling to reduce slosh
- Stainless steel sleeve for strength
Best for: 4WDs running larger tyres with an empty spare wheel well.
Things to Consider Before You Buy
- Mounting location: Footwell tanks are temporary and easy, underbody tanks free cargo space but need heat shields, vertical tanks save canopy space.
- Capacity vs weight: Remember, 100L = 100kg.
- Access points: Simple tap or pump and hose?
- Maintenance: Wide caps make cleaning easier.
- Spare parts: Stick to brands with standard BSP fittings for easy replacements.
Top Caravan & RV Water Tanks
Compare sizes and fittings in our caravan and RV water tanks range.
43L Modular Caravan & RV Water Tank
- Link multiple tanks for big capacity
- Food-grade polyethylene
- Two 20mm (¾" BSP) inlets/outlets
- Lightweight at 2.5kg
Best for: Flexible setups that can grow with your needs.
54L Caravan & RV Water Tank
- Links with other tanks, like the 43L, with more volume
- Three 20mm (¾" BSP) inlets/outlets
- Odourless, food-grade HDPE
Best for: Families or longer stays without needing a single huge tank.
40L Portable Water Tank with Wheels
- Built-in wheels and handle for easy transport
- Flexible pipe (320mm to 890mm) with a faucet
- Food-grade, durable polyethylene
Best for: Travellers needing a backup supply or simple grey water disposal.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Capacity | Dimensions / Fit | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuff Terrain 42L Vertical Mount Tank | 42L | Slim 75mm profile with wheel arch cut-outs | UV-resistant, impact-proof poly, ½" BSP brass outlet | Utes/canopies with tight space |
| Tuff Terrain 40L Poly Footwell Tank | 40L | Fits rear passenger footwell, recess for flush fit | Two brass outlets, durable polyethylene | Solo travellers/small families |
| Tuff Terrain 62L Underbody Spare Wheel Tank | 62L | 730mm x 730mm x 200mm (fits spare wheel space) | Baffled to reduce slosh, stainless sleeve | 4WDs with larger tyres and empty spare wheel well |
| 43L Modular Caravan & RV Tank | 43L | Modular design, lightweight 2.5kg | Two 20mm BSP inlets/outlets, food-grade | Flexible setups, expandable capacity |
| 54L Caravan & RV Tank | 54L | Modular design, more volume | Three 20mm BSP inlets/outlets, food-grade HDPE | Families or longer stays |
| 40L Portable Water Tank with Wheels | 40L | Portable with wheels and handle | Pipe and faucet, food-grade HDPE | Easy transport or backup supply |
Final Thoughts
The right water tank can transform your camping setup. Go slightly bigger than you think you’ll need, stick with tanks built for Aussie conditions, and always keep a small backup.
For 4WDs, Tuff Terrain 4WD water tanks are tough, space-saving, and built for real off-road use.
For caravans and RVs, our caravan and RV water tanks are lightweight and link together, so your storage can grow with your setup.
To finish your water system, see our tank accessories: a 12V water pump, filler kits and a Bluetooth flow meter. Or browse all water storage.
