REVIEW – Have you ever been in an airport and wanted some water, but refused to pay $8.95? Tired of lugging around a plastic or metal tube that occupies half of the volume of your backpack? If yes, Hydaway’s collapsible bottle might be for you.
What is it?
Hydaway’s latest incarnation is a liquid-carrying vessel that has accordion-like bellows that enable the bottle to be compressed into a flat disk.
Hardware Specs:
- 6 x 4 inches when expanded, 1 x 4 inches when compressed
- 18 ounces capacity
- Weighs 5 ounces
What’s in the Box?
- Hydaway bottle
- Travel storage case
Design and features:
I reviewed Hydaway’s original bottle last year. I found them to be great for travel, easy to clean, and expertly crafted. I was aware of upgrades and looked forward to looking at the new H2.0 version.
The bottle arrived in a sturdy box with plenty of biodegradable packing material. Included was a travel storage case.
Retail bottle packaging is minimal – I always appreciate that. It’s similar to the original with just a card that fastens under the bottle lid.
Hydaway’s Version H2.0 is slightly smaller in diameter than its predecessor. Anything that saves size or weight is welcomed. The following picture shows the difference between original (green) and the new version (dark blue).
The new bottle sent to me is the 18-ounce version. At some point, I’d like to have a look at the larger 28-ounce version.
The storage case fits both the old and new versions.
Opening the accordion folds of the new bottle is the same as the previous version – loosen the cap (or on the original version, open the spout) to break the vacuum, and pull the upper and lower expansions in opposite directions.
Here’s the thing… The original version had a spout that could be opened to allow air to enter the bottle during expansion. The new version has no spout – the lid needs to be removed, or at least loosened enough to let air in and out to expand or collapse the bottle. The original version is definitely easier.
The new version has a folding handle built into the cap. My first attempt to open the bottle, I loosened the cap and pulled on the folding handle. It popped off. It goes back on easily but I certainly wouldn’t trust it to hold the bottle secure while jogging through an airport. I suppose that’s what the travel case is for.
The old version also had plastic molded into the base that could be grabbed with index finger and thumb to assist with deployment. The new design integrates a “lip” into the base. I’m sure it’s less costly to manufacture but makes the version H2.0 version a bit more difficult to open.
Now that it’s open, fill with your preferred beverage or snack and you are on the move.
The H2.0 version lid seals well. No spills but it lacks the spout of the original version. When I tried using the bottle while walking and found having to remove the lid makes it more prone to spilling. It also makes drinking a more involved two-handed process – one hand to open the bottle, the other to hold the lid. The original version needed one had to hold the bottle, the other to open the spout, once the spout was opened, the other hand could go back to what it was doing.
Please note: You CAN purchase a lid with a spout with the version H2.0.
What I like:
- Small size
- Great for travel
- Eliminates the need for disposable bottles
What needs to be improved?
- Sturdy up the handle
Final thoughts:
I love gadgets that reduce size and weight, so I’m a big fan of Hydaway bottles. Their innovative design, great construction, and features are top-notch. I suppose it’s clear that I prefer the original version to the H2.0. Still, I love this product and will continue using them.
Price: Starts at $21
Where to buy: Indiegogo Indemand
Source: The sample for this review was provided by Hydaway Bottle.
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If you squeeze too hard or slam it down on a table, the water will shoot out, right?
No. I’ve owned the older version for some time now and always use it while traveling. The lid is very secure and seals tight. I’ve never had any leaks. If dropped, it bounces a little, but stays firmly closed.