7 Best Off-Road Gas Cans for Emergencies

Running out of gas is everyone’s worst nightmare when they are on the road, but running out of gas when you are not on the road is even worse! For those of you who enjoy off-roading, especially in areas with limited to no cell service, having an extra can of gas can be extremely important —or even life-saving.

When choosing a gas can that you would like to keep in your car, there are many factors you will need to consider. Some of these factors are: size, durability, material, and functionality. The last thing you want is to purchase a can with low durability or one that is not very easy to use. Picking out the right can for you can be confusing, so we are going to break down our top picks. There are many different types of fuel cans and it is important to understand when to use plastic gas cans or metal gas cans for storing fuel.

It is also important to remember that gas is flammable and emits harmful gas fumes. Plastic gas cans are a more affordable option to store gasoline, however, gasoline can leach into the plastic cans and they are also susceptible to melting and temperature changes. Metal gas cans on the other hand are better for long term fuel storage, but they are less portable fuel containers, and they are generally more expensive. Picking out the right can for you can be confusing, so we are going to break down our top picks for the best gas cans.

Wavian Gas Can

The Wavian Gas Can is debatably one of the best gas cans out there. It is made from cold rolled steel and is lined to help protect against rusting. It has a 5.28 gallon capacity and is 19 inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide. It is DOT and OSHA compliant and also includes the spout. This gas can comes in a variety of colors and also has various accessories, such as gas can holders as well. This is a very durable option and is our top choice, but it is unfortunately restricted in California.

RotopaX Gas Can

The RotopaX gas can is a unique looking can that can even be mounted to the back of your Jeep. Each can however only holds 2 gallons, which can make this option a little pricey if you want to carry more than one can. But, it is good for emergency uses and also comes with the spout. If you would like to mount this can on your vehicle, you can purchase a mounting kit separately. It is leak proof and EPA and CARB compliant. This can is made with a plastic barrier that is fairly durable. One major negative with this gas can is that you must vent the fuel once a day. It is 17 ¾ inches tall, 13 ¼ inches long, and 3 inches wide.

Anvil Off-Road Jerry Can

The Anvil Off-Road Jerry Can is a 5.3 gallon steel can with safety cap and spout. It is slightly cheaper than the Wavian gas can, but also only comes in a red, green, blue, or yellow color. It is available in all 50 states and is EPA and CARB certified and OSHA compliant. This is also built to DOT, NFPA, and ASTM standards. This gas can is also mountable, but the mounting equipment is sold separately. The safety cap has a locking pin which helps prevent leaks and spills and it also has an internal vent.

Midwest Can Metal Jerry Can

Midwest Can’s Metal Jerry Can is a great affordable option for a metal fuel cans. It is 5 gallons and is 18 ¼ inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide. This can has a quick flow spout and is spill proof as well. It is DOT, EPA, and CARB certified. This gas can, however, only comes in the color red.

Flame Shield Metal Gas Can

Flame Shield’s steel gas can is another great metal option and is less expensive than the Wavian gas can. This can has a 5 gallon capacity and is 18 ¼ inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide. The only color this gas can comes in is classic red and it includes the spout and cap. It is EPA and CARB standard as well.

Midwest HDPE Gas Can

Midwest HDPE gas can is a good inexpensive option for plastic gas cans. This can is only 2 gallons and is 9 ¾ inches tall, 9 ¼ inches long, and 7 ¾ inches wide. It is made of HDPE, not metal, and has a self venting function. It meets the EPA and CARB standards and also includes the cap and spout. If you are looking for a smaller, lightweight option, this may be a good fit. However, this will not be as durable as some of the metal options.

SureCan Gas Can

SureCan’s HDPE gas can is another great option for a non- metal can. It is more expensive than Flame Shield’s metal gas cans, but it is a 5 gallon, which is twice the capacity as theirs. This can is 15 ⅝ inches tall, 15 9/32 inches long, and 10 15/64 inches wide. It is self venting and only comes in a red color. The spout is included and it is EPA, CARB, and DOT certified. Although this is a good non-metal option, it is not available internationally or in California.

Featured Product: Rhino USA Recovery Traction Boards

We hope this list was useful in helping you find the best gas cans, especially for those who are off-roading or overlanding, and won't be near a gas station for a longer period of time. Always remember to use an approved gas can when filling your fuel tank and ensure that all safety measures are in place. Just as important as having a reliable and durable gas can, is having the proper recovery gear and off-road accessories, so make sure to check out the Rhino USA website for the toughest equipment available!

FAQ's

How long is gas good for in a gas can?

The general rule is that pure gas stored in a metal or plastic container can last 3-6 months before it begins to degrade and lose its combustibility. Ethanol gas blends should not be stored for more than 2-3 months before they begin to oxidize and evaporate.

How to fill up a gas can

The best way to fill up a gas can is by first placing it on the ground, and touching the metal of the nozzle to your vehicle to remove any static electricity that might be present. Before pumping the gas into the gas can, ensure that the gas nozzle is in contact with the rim of your can and begin filling slowly. Only fill your gas can up to 95% to ensure there is room for the fuel to expand under changing temperatures.