The Best Gas Cans

The Best Gas Cans

We always keep a couple of gallons of gas on standby in the garage, whether to start an old car, power up the generator, or lend to a neighbor in need. No matter what you need your gas can for, it seems pretty obvious that a proper gas can should hold and pour gas with no spilling or leakage, and do so without stinking up the place. That might not seem like a lot to ask, but not every gas can does the trick. So we did the dirty work for you and researched all kinds of gas cans to find the very best for whatever situation might arise.

No-Spill 1450 5-Gallon Poly Gas Can

A Can-Do Can

This can's efficient design and superior capacity make it our top choice.
Best Overall

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No-Spill’s 5-gallon gas can lives up to its name with a 7/8″ funnel spout that makes it perfect for filling even the smallest tanks, like weed-whackers and hedge-trimmers. The thumb-button control creates precision pouring, which means no more spilling gas all over the garage. A wire mesh screen in the nozzle prevents contaminants from entering your tank, while a built-in nozzle cover prevents dust and particles from collecting in the can. Both CARB and EPA compliant, the No-Spill is both a safe and dependable gas can.

Pros:

  • Notched gallon measurements on the side
  • Two integrated carrying handles
  • Easy-pour funnel spout

Cons:

  • Five gallons of gas weighs 41 pounds
  • Hard to see gas through the red plastic

SureCan Easy Pour 5-Gallon Gas Can

Tanks for the Gas Can

With a rotating pouring nozzle and easy-grip handles, this handy can prevents spills and messes.
Easiest to Use

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Sometimes, a fill-up isn’t as simple as pouring gas straight out of your can and into the tank. SureCan’s Easy Pour gas can features a five-position flexible spout that rotates to fit into any tank that needs filling, preventing spills that can be both messy and dangerous. The thumb trigger makes for easy, controlled pouring, while the hand grips located on both the top and bottom make the can easier to handle. We especially like that the SureCan is constructed from 6 individual layers of plastic and tested for up to 60 PSI in both high heat and below-freezing temperatures.

Pros:

  • EPA, CARB, and DOT certified
  • Child-proof cap
  • Includes flexible hose

Cons:

  • No contaminant screen
  • Capacity-fills create too much internal pressure

DuraMax Fluid Transfer Rolling Gas Can

For Big Kid Toys

For refueling boats, RVs, or even tractors and other rural tools, this can puts 14 gallons at your disposal.
Best For Recreation

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The DuraMax “Flo n’ Go” is more than a gas can; it’s a mobile refueling station for your boat, ATV, snowmobile, or tractor. Made of a durable 80% resin and 20% rubber blend, the DurMax holds up to 14 gallons in its deep, vertical tank. It features an ergonomically designed, heavy-duty top handle with deep handholds to make it easy to carry, and the molded plastic wheels at the bottom allow you to roll the gas can like a piece of luggage. The wheels also serve to keep the can off the ground for extra ventilation. The attached 6′ hose allows for easy pumping from the gas can to your gas tank.

Pros:

  • Patented automatic safety valve shut-offs
  • Accepts standard 1/4 NPT marine tank fittings
  • Gas flows up to 2 gallons per minute

Cons:

  • Cannot be used to siphon gas from a tank
  • Gravity fed, so the handle must be below level of the gas in tank

Eagle UI-50-FS Red Galvanized Steel Gas Can

Old School Steel

Is it possible to improve upon a classic? This steel gas can has been a standby for decades.
Best Metal Can

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There’s something to be said for the classic steel gas cans of the past. Eagle has embraced that same durable, time-tested design with this galvanized steel gas can, which is leak-tested to make sure it lives up to its reputation. Taking an old school approach to the fill-up process, this can’s 5-gallon capacity and yellow polyurethane funnel make sure you get the job done, no frills necessary. It’s an excellent buy for anyone who sticks to the classics or appreciates the aesthetics of this timelessly cool design.

Pros:

  • Made in the USA
  • 100% leak tested
  • Approved by Underwriters Laboratory

Cons:

  • Funnel may not fit small gas tanks
  • Paint peels on the bottom of the can

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to store gas in a gas can?

It’s safe under the proper conditions. Don’t leave small amounts of gas in your gas can, since the fumes can build up and cause the can to expand and potentially explode. But don’t fill your gas can more than 95%, either. Make sure the cap fits tight and store the gasoline at room temperature, being careful not to expose the can to extreme heat or cold. Under these conditions, it’s safe.

I’ve got these plastic milk jugs left over. Can I store gas in those?

The answer is simple: absolutely not. The plastic used to make milk jugs can become brittle when exposed to corrosives like gasoline and break or leak. Besides, proper gas cans are typically built with a ventilation system to keep fumes from building up. Finally, it’s illegal in some states to store gas in anything other than a container that has been tested and approved for storing and transporting gasoline. While it might seem like an easy solution, it’s only a recipe for disaster.

Does gas go “bad”? If I store it for a year in my garage, will it lose its combustibility?

Gasoline can indeed go bad and lose its combustible properties. In general, pure gas begins to degrade because of evaporation and oxidation in three to six months, even if stored in a sealed metal container. Ethanol-based blends have an even shorter shelf life of two to three months. Under no circumstances should you pour your old gas down the drain. Take it to a toxic waste facility to have it disposed of properly.