For something so vital to our survival, water doesn’t always get the attention it deserves.
But hydration isn't just about ticking off two litres a day. It’s about fuelling your focus, supporting digestion and keeping your energy stable through whatever the day throws at you.
And the more demanding your day, whether it’s gym sessions, hot Tube rides, or back-to-back meetings, the more your body needs. That’s why oversized water bottles are suddenly everywhere. Not just a wellness trend, they’re a smart solution to one of the most common modern health problems: dehydration.
With this in mind, we spoke to hydration expert Shehnaz Bashir, a dietitian at water electrolytes brand Humantra, for tips on keeping on top of hydration.
Dehydration is more common than you think
“Hydrating well is one of the most important aspects of nutrition,” says Bashir. “Our body relies on enough fluid to make sure that all of its functions can take place as normal.”
We lose water constantly, through sweat, breathing, and even just thinking hard (yes, really). “During the day, and particularly during warmer weather and exercise, we lose water through sweat and need to pay particular attention to rehydrating,” Bashir explains. “If we are dehydrated, this can lead to headaches, dizziness, lack of concentration and changes in mood. We can feel more tired, and it can also cause changes to memory. The digestion of our food will also be affected, causing bloating and constipation.”
It’s not exactly the mood you want for a high-functioning workday or a workout. And while you may think sipping little and often is enough, the truth is it’s easy to underestimate your fluid needs. Especially if you’re relying on caffeine or skipping meals.
Why bigger bottles can help you drink smarter
The secret isn’t just to drink more water, but it’s to make drinking water easier. That’s where oversized bottles come in.
A 3.78L Hydroflask on your desk, for instance, means you don’t have to remember to refill constantly. Plus, it’s vacuum-insulated, so your water stays cold even if your meetings overrun or you’re out and about. If you’re looking for something stylish and city-friendly, the H20 Capsule adds a bit of aesthetic flair with a carry strap and built-in sleeve – no need to fumble with a separate bag.
At the gym, lugging around a Yeti or The Cool Flask might seem extra, but with over three litres on hand, there’s zero chance of running dry mid-workout. These stainless steel beasts aren’t just about looks either; they’ll keep water icy for 24 hours and hold up well with serious wear.
And if you’re just getting started with tracking intake, something like the Gymkeg or Aquafit bottles, complete with motivational time markers, can help you build the habit visually. It’s not about being perfect, but about building consistency and making that first litre feel effortless.
It’s not just about water – think electrolytes too
Here’s the twist: gulping down gallons of plain water might not be enough. “Even if you’re drinking litres of plain water, you could still be missing out on proper hydration, especially since tap water these days is stripped of these vital components,” says Bashir. “Taking an electrolyte, such as Humantra, powers your body’s ability to direct water where it’s needed most.”
Especially during workouts or warmer months, when you’re sweating more than usual, you’ll want to replace not just fluids but essential minerals. Mixing an electrolyte sachet into a bottle like Myprotein’s 1/2 Gallon Hydrator can make a big difference, even if you’re just on your second coffee and haven’t had a meal.
Keep it simple, keep it visible
Like any good wellness tool, the best oversized bottle is the one that fits your lifestyle. Need something to sit pretty on your WFH desk? Choose an insulated, cute design that makes sipping feel like a ritual. Need to carry it between spin class and your commute? Go for lightweight and leakproof with a side handle.
“Finding new ways to incorporate fluid into your diet can significantly increase your overall fluid intake to help meet your goals,” says Shehnaz. And a bottle that lives on your desk, gym bench or bedside table is an easy place to start.
So, whether it’s a motivational gallon jug with bold time markers or a subtle matte-finish flask that wouldn’t look out of place in a boardroom, an oversized water bottle is the easiest wellness upgrade you didn’t know you needed.
Read on for more.
Hydroflask Water Bottle
Double-walled and vacuum-insulated, this 1893ml bottle from Hydroflask is perfect if you like your water cold all day. It's also one of the best-looking bottles around.
Buy now £51.84, Amazon
Frank Green Ceramic Reusable Bottle
Switching from outdoor runs to the treadmill can be a hassle when your usual running bottle doesn’t fit in the holder. If you’re after something cuter, Frank Green’s ceramic 2L reusable bottle is a good option.
It’s customisable, so you can match it to your gym aesthetic, and the straw lid means no more awkwardly twisting caps mid-run. Plus, with plenty of colours and lid styles, you can tweak it to suit your vibe, whether that’s minimal and stylish or bold and bright.
Buy now £54.99, Frank Green
H20 Capsule Half Gallon Bottle
Stylish, practical and comes with a built-in sleeve and strap, this 2.2L bottle is perfect for city life and gym-goers alike.
Buy now £32.78, Amazon
Yeti Rambler One Gallon Jug
A cult favourite for a reason. The Yeti is ultra-durable and ideal for outdoorsy types or gymgoers who don’t mess around with hydration. It can hold almost 3.8L.
Buy now £249.00, Amazon
Coolflask Metal Water Bottle Insulated with PU Leather Sleeve
Ideal for desk-to-gym transitions, this 2L bottle from Coolflask is leakproof, vacuum-insulated and keeps water cold for 24 hours.
Buy now £37.22, Amazon
Sweaty Betty Keep It Chill Straw Water Bottle
Need motivation to get your daily water fix? Look no further than the playful purple hue of Sweaty Betty’s 950ml water bottle complete with a straw for hands-free hydration al desko.
Buy now £30.00, Sweaty Betty
Myprotein 1/2 Gallon Hydrator
Slightly under the 2L mark, but compact enough for smaller bags, Myprotein’s giant water bottle will appeal to more than just gym bunnies.
Buy now £8.00, Myprotein
Vennerli Half Gallon Water Bottle
With a generous 2.2L capacity, a sturdy side handle, and a flip-cap design that won’t leak in your gym bag, the Vennerli Half Gallon Water Bottle is ideal for anyone who doesn’t have time for constant refills. Whether you're hiking outdoors, powering through spin class or just trying to up your water game at the office, this bottle is durable, reusable and unfussy.
Buy now £12.00, Shein
The Gym Keg Official Sports Water Bottle
A bestseller with motivational time markers and a stylish sleeve, te The Gym Keg’s bottle is workout-ready and easy to carry. Plus, it comes in lots of designs, whether you prefer a pretty pink or distinctive multi-coloured pattern, so you are more inspired to sip in style.
Buy now £13.99, Amazon
Fuel 24 Stainless Steel Jug
Built like a tank, this stainless steel jug doesn’t mess around. Made from premium 304-grade steel with a durable rubber-coated finish, it’s practically indestructible, so you don’t have to panic every time it takes a tumble in the gym. The wide grip handle and rugged strap make it easy to carry whether you’re lifting, hiking or commuting, and the leakproof lid keeps your bag dry.
Buy now £24.99, Amazon
Thermos Icon Bottle with Spout
Durable enough for daily workouts but smart enough for your desk, this bottle from Thermos does it all. A push-button lid with a locking mechanism makes one-handed sipping easy despite the larger size, while the covered spout keeps things clean when you're on the move.
The wide mouth opening makes refills (and ice cubes) easy, and the non-slip base means it stays put during hectic gym sessions.
Buy now £40.00, Thermos
Aquafit Blue Skies Gallon Water Bottle
Competitive? Well, this is the bottle for you. Aquafit’s giant hydrator has time markers to ensure you reach your H2O goals. It also comes in a wide range of colours and with a handy handle.
Buy now £60.94, Amazon
