When you’re on the go with your dog—whether it’s a road trip, a hiking adventure, or a weekend getaway—keeping them hydrated is essential. A collapsible water bowl is a must-have travel accessory for any pet owner. These bowls are lightweight, easy to store, and make it convenient to provide fresh water wherever you are. But with so many options on the market, which ones are worth your money?
We’ve tested and reviewed the top five collapsible water bowls for traveling with dogs based on durability, ease of use, portability, and overall design.
1. Ruffwear Quencher Cinch Top Bowl
Best for: Adventure Seekers & Hikers
Ruffwear is known for producing high-quality gear for active dogs, and the Quencher Cinch Top Bowl is no exception. Unlike traditional collapsible bowls, this one features a built-in cinch top, allowing you to store leftover water without spills—perfect for when you’re on the move.
Key Features:
✔ Made from durable, waterproof fabric
✔ Cinch closure to store water or kibble
✔ Lightweight and easily packable
✔ Available in multiple sizes
Why It Stands Out:
This bowl is ideal for pet owners who hike or camp with their dogs, as it eliminates the need to dump unused water. Instead, you can simply cinch it closed and keep moving.
Potential Drawbacks:
✖ Pricier than some other collapsible bowls
✖ Not as structured as silicone options, which may make it harder for some dogs to drink from
2. Outward Hound Port-A-Bowl
Best for: Budget-Friendly Travelers
If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable collapsible water bowl, the Outward Hound Port-A-Bowl is a great choice. Made from nylon, this bowl is incredibly lightweight and folds flat when not in use.
Key Features:
✔ Extremely lightweight (under 1 oz)
✔ Folds completely flat for compact storage
✔ Quick-drying material
✔ Holds up to 48 oz of water
Why It Stands Out:
It’s one of the most portable and cost-effective options on the market. If you need a simple, no-fuss water bowl for occasional trips, this is a great pick.
Potential Drawbacks:
✖ Not as sturdy as silicone-based bowls
✖ Lacks a reinforced rim, which may cause it to collapse while in use
3. Kurgo Collapsible Travel Dog Bowl
Best for: Car Trips & Everyday Use
Kurgo’s collapsible travel bowl is a great all-around option, especially for those who frequently take their dogs on car rides or day trips. Made from food-grade silicone, this bowl is sturdy yet flexible and can collapse to different heights depending on how much water your dog needs.
Key Features:
✔ Made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone
✔ Collapses to three different heights for various portion sizes
✔ Includes a carabiner for easy attachment to bags or leashes
✔ Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning
Why It Stands Out:
This bowl offers a great balance between portability and sturdiness, making it ideal for daily use or road trips.
Potential Drawbacks:
✖ Slightly bulkier than fabric-based collapsible bowls
✖ Carabiner attachment could be more durable
4. COMSUN Collapsible Dog Bowl (Set of 2)
Best for: Multi-Pet Households & Long Trips
The COMSUN collapsible dog bowl set includes two bowls, making it a fantastic option for households with multiple dogs or for long-distance travel where you might need an extra bowl for food.
Key Features:
✔ Comes in a pack of two
✔ Made from eco-friendly, food-grade silicone
✔ Each bowl holds up to 12 oz of water
✔ Includes carabiners for easy carrying
Why It Stands Out:
Having two collapsible bowls means you can use one for water and one for food, making it convenient for longer trips.
Potential Drawbacks:
✖ Smaller capacity compared to other options
✖ Not as sturdy as higher-end brands
5. Bonza Collapsible Dog Bowl
Best for: Durability & Large Breeds
If you have a larger dog or need a more durable collapsible water bowl, the Bonza collapsible dog bowl is a fantastic choice. It features a reinforced design to prevent spills and is larger than many other collapsible bowls.
Key Features:
✔ Made from thick, high-quality food-grade silicone
✔ Holds up to 40 oz of water
✔ Reinforced structure to prevent tipping
✔ Comes with a lid to keep water fresh
Why It Stands Out:
This is one of the sturdiest collapsible bowls available, making it a great option for big dogs or for those who need a more spill-resistant option.
Potential Drawbacks:
✖ Bulkier than some other collapsible bowls
✖ More expensive than budget-friendly options
Choosing the Best Collapsible Water Bowl for Your Dog
When selecting the best collapsible water bowl for your travels, consider the following factors:
1. Size & Capacity
If you have a small dog, a bowl with a 12-16 oz capacity may be sufficient. Larger breeds or multi-pet households will need something bigger, such as a 40 oz bowl.
2. Material & Durability
Silicone bowls are sturdy and long-lasting, while fabric or nylon bowls are ultra-lightweight but may collapse if not fully filled.
3. Portability & Storage
If you need a bowl that takes up minimal space, opt for a fabric-based or compact silicone model. If you have room for a slightly bulkier option, you’ll get more stability and durability.
4. Additional Features
Some bowls come with extra features like cinch tops, lids, or adjustable heights, which may be useful depending on your travel style.
By choosing the right collapsible water bowl, you can ensure that your dog stays hydrated on all your adventures, whether it’s a short car ride or a multi-day hiking trip.