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! If you’re searching for the best off road gas can, you’re in the right place. This guide is for off-roaders, overlanders, and anyone who needs reliable fuel storage away from civilization. Choosing the right off-road gas can is crucial for both safety and convenience—having the right container can mean the difference between a smooth adventure and a dangerous situation.

When choosing a gas can to keep in your car, there are several important factors to consider:

• Size: How much fuel do you need to carry for your typical trips?

• Durability: Will the can withstand rough terrain and repeated use?

• Material: Is it made of metal or high-density polyethylene (HDPE)? HDPE cans are lightweight and rust-proof, making them suitable for off-roading.

• Functionality: Is it easy to pour, fill, and transport?

The last thing you want is to buy a can with low durability or one that is not very easy to use. Make sure to buy a quality, safety-compliant product from a reputable source to avoid safety hazards and ensure your can lasts. Approved or safety-compliant gas cans must meet standards such as EPA, CARB, and DOT, and feature flame arresters, self-closing lids, pressure relief, and undergo 100% leak testing. These features help prevent spills, leaks, and fire hazards, making them essential for safe fuel storage and transport.

Picking out the right can for you can be confusing, so we are going to break down our top picks. Basically, you want to choose between proven options that balance safety, durability, and ease of use. There are many different types of fuel cans, including jugs designed for off-roading or racing, and it is important to understand when to use plastic gas cans or metal gas cans for storing fuel. Some jugs are supposed to be for non-fuel use, but are often used for fuel anyway.

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. The cost difference between plastic and metal gas cans can influence your decision, as metal cans tend to cost more upfront but may last longer. When considering capacity, five gallons (about 19 liters) is a common and practical size for off-road gas cans. Some cans, with proper care, can last forever. If you want to avoid issues, stick to older, proven designs or spouts, even though some older spouts are technically illegal under current regulations but are still widely used. The recommended course is to choose containers and spouts that maximize safety, spill prevention, and ease of use for your needs.

Tips for Choosing and Using Your Gas Can Safely and Effectively:

• Look for off-road gas cans with safety certifications such as EPA, CARB, or DOT.

• Choose cans with secure sealing features like leak-proof designs and locking caps.

• Opt for robust construction made of steel or heavy-duty HDPE (high-density polyethylene), which is lightweight and rust-proof, making it ideal for off-roading.

• Ensure the can is easy to mount or transport, especially if you need to secure it to a rack, truck bed, or ATV.

• Always use an approved gas can with features like flame arresters, self-closing lids, and pressure relief.

• Regularly inspect your gas can for signs of wear, leaks, or damage.

Now that you know what to look for, let's review the top options for off-road gas cans that balance safety, durability, and ease of use.

Top Off Road Gas Cans for Emergencies

Summary Table: Best Off Road Gas Cans for Specific Needs

Note: The Scepter SmartControl 5 Gallon is considered the best overall gas can due to its reliability and affordability. The Wavian 5.3 Gallon Steel Jerry Can is best for toughness, while the RotopaX 2 Gallon Gasoline Pack is recommended for modular mounting due to its flat design.

7 Best Off Road Gas Can Options for Emergencies

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 (20 liters) 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. Some older gas can spouts are now considered illegal under current regulations, but the Wavian can comes with a compliant spout. This gas can comes in a variety of colors and also has various accessories, such as gas can holders as well. Compared to other fuel jugs designed for off-road or racing use, the Wavian Gas Can stands out for its safety features and usability. This is a very durable option that, with proper care, can last almost forever, 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 (about 7.6 liters), which can make this option a little pricey if you want to carry more than one can. Compared to other fuel jugs designed for off-road or racing use, the RotopaX stands out for its compact design and mounting options. 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 and, with proper care, could last you forever. 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 (20 liters) 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. Compared to other fuel jugs designed for off-roading or racing, the Anvil Off-Road Jerry Can stands out for its safety features and rugged construction. It is available in all 50 states and is EPA and CARB certified and OSHA compliant. Some older gas can spouts are now considered illegal under current regulations, but this model meets all modern standards. 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. With proper care, this can is built to last almost forever.

Midwest Can Metal Jerry Can

Midwest Can’s Metal Jerry Can is a great affordable option for a metal fuel can. It is 5 gallons (approximately 19 liters) and is 18 ¼ inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide. The lower cost of this can makes it a budget-friendly choice compared to more expensive fuel bladders or metal cans. This can has a quick flow spout and is spill proof as well. When compared to other fuel jugs designed for off-road or racing use, the Midwest Can stands out for its combination of durability and affordability. 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, making it a more affordable choice in terms of cost compared to other metal fuel containers. This can has a 5 gallon capacity (approximately 19 liters) and is 18 ¼ inches tall, 13.5 inches long, and 6.5 inches wide. Compared to other fuel jugs, the Flame Shield offers solid durability and safety features for off-road use. 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 (about 7.6 liters) 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. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) cans are lightweight and rust-proof, making them suitable for off-roading. The lower cost of this can makes it more affordable compared to many metal fuel containers. It meets the EPA and CARB standards and also includes the cap and spout. Compared to other fuel jugs, the Midwest HDPE Can is lightweight and easy to handle, though it may not be as rugged as some racing or utility jugs. While it is supposed to be used for gasoline, some users may use similar jugs for other fluids. 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 (about 19 liters), 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. Built to last, with proper care this can could serve you forever. While the SureCan is a unique design, there are other fuel jugs available for off-road use, racing, or general fuel storage, each with their own safety features and durability. Although this is a good non-metal option, it is not available internationally or in California.

Beyond choosing the right can, safety is critical for handling, storing, and transporting fuel—especially off-road. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.

Safety Features and Precautions

Spill-Proof Spouts

• One of the most important features to look for is a spill-proof spout. This not only helps you pour gasoline or diesel cleanly into your tank or generator, but also prevents dangerous spills that can damage your vehicle or the environment.

• Type I gas cans have one opening for both filling and dispensing fuel, while Type II cans have separate openings for each. Type II gas cans, which have two openings (one for filling, one for pouring), are engineered for safer, more controlled fuel transfer, while Type I cans with one opening tend to be simpler and sometimes more reliable for quick use.

• Whichever you choose, make sure the spout and cap seal tightly to avoid leaks.

Mounting and Transport

• Mounting options are another nice touch, especially if you need to secure your gas cans to racks, your truck bed, or ATV.

• Using bungee cords or dedicated mounts keeps your containers from sliding around during rough rides, reducing the risk of a drop or spill.

• Always test your setup before heading out—securely mounted cans are less likely to tip over, even on the roughest terrain.

Storage Safety

• When storing fuel, always keep your containers in a well-ventilated space, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or anything that could spark a fire.

• Never store gas cans inside your living space or near open flames.

• If you’re loading up for a trip, make sure your cans are upright and tightly sealed, and use bungee cords or straps to keep them in place in your trunk or truck.

Capacity Considerations

• Capacity matters, too. For most off-roaders, a five-gallon can is the sweet spot for carrying enough extra fuel without taking up too much space.

• If you’re running a generator or need to refuel an ATV, make sure your container is up to the task—look for sturdy construction, durable materials, and EPA or CARB compliance to ensure you’re buying a quality product that’s legal and safe to use.

Additional Safety Tips:

• Always label your gas cans clearly (especially if you use both gasoline and diesel).

• Keep a fire extinguisher handy.

• Never smoke or use open flames near your fuel.

• Check your cans regularly for signs of wear, leaks, or damage—replace them as needed to avoid costly accidents.

By taking these precautions and investing in the best fuel cans for your needs, you’ll save money, manage risk, and keep your adventures safe and mess-free. Whether you’re stocking up for camp, business, or just want peace of mind on the road, a little attention to safety goes a long way.

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!

Frequently Asked Questions

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.