DIY Water Storage and Filtration for Your Trailer

Whether you're boondocking in a travel trailer, camper van, or teardrop trailer, having reliable water storage and clean drinking water is essential. Built-in tanks are often limited, so many RVers add portable storage and DIY filtration systems for safer, better-tasting water. This guide covers simple, cost-effective DIY options.

Water Storage Options

Most trailers have a built-in fresh water tank (20-50 gallons), but for extended trips, add portable tanks.

1. Portable Blue Water Jugs

The easiest DIY solution: Use 5-7 gallon BPA-free jugs (like Reliance or Scepter). Stack them securely in your trailer or tow vehicle.

2. Larger Auxiliary Tanks

Mount a 20-50 gallon tank under the trailer or in a storage compartment. Use food-grade plastic tanks with proper fittings.

3. Custom Built Tanks

For advanced DIY: Build from PVC sheets or repurpose containers, ensuring they're food-safe and sealed.

Water Filtration Systems

Campground water can contain sediment, chlorine, or contaminants. A good filtration setup removes them for safe drinking.

1. Basic Inline Hose Filter

Connect a canister filter directly to your city water hookup. Affordable and easy to install/replace.

2. Multi-Stage DIY System

Build a 2-3 stage system: Sediment filter + carbon block + optional UV or ceramic for advanced purification.

3. Under-Sink Drinking Water Filter

For the cleanest tap water inside your trailer, install a dedicated filter under the kitchen sink.

4. Gravity-Fed Option for Boondocking

No power needed: Pour water into the top chamber and let gravity filter it (e.g., Berkey-style systems).

Tips for Success

• Use food-grade hoses and containers only.
• Sanitize tanks regularly with bleach solution.
• Add a pressure regulator to protect your trailer's plumbing.
• Test water sources if boondocking from streams/lakes.

With these DIY setups, you'll have plenty of clean water on the road. Safe travels!