Which Wavian Can Should I Choose: 20L, 10L, or the 22L Water Can?

Choose the 20L jerry can if you need maximum fuel capacity and want the flagship NATO-spec can in one of five colors ($119.99). Choose the 10L if you want the same steel construction in a more compact size for tighter storage or lighter loads ($109.99). Choose the 22L water can only if you need potable water, not fuel — it is a different product made in Australia ($54.99). All three share the same brand promise, but they are not interchangeable in use.

The three cans at a glance

The site states that every Wavian jerry can is built to the same NATO specification, and that each can is rated to NATO standards and tested for pressure, drop, and vibration. The 20L and 10L differ in capacity, not in build quality.

When the 20L is the right pick

The 20L is the flagship: five colors, full NATO spec, and the can the brand leads with. It suits overlanders, ranches, off-grid installers, and first-response fleets — the use cases the site names for carrying or storing fuel where it needs to travel or wait.

Pick the 20L when:

• You want the most fuel per can and can handle a full-size can.
• You want color choice to match a vehicle or fleet.
• You are standardizing on one can size across multiple vehicles or crews.

When the 10L makes more sense

The 10L is described as "same spec, half the volume." That makes it the choice when space or weight is the constraint rather than total capacity.

Pick the 10L when:

• Storage space is tight (smaller vehicle compartments, packed rigs).
• You want a lighter can to lift and pour.
• You plan to carry several cans and prefer smaller units over one large one.

Note the price gap is small — $109.99 versus $119.99 — so the decision should be driven by size and handling, not by saving money.

Why the 22L water can is a separate decision

The 22L water can is potable-safe and made in Australia. It is for drinking water, not fuel, so it does not compete with the jerry cans — it complements them. If your trip needs both fuel and water, the 22L is the water side of that pair. Do not treat it as a cheaper substitute for a fuel can.

What the steel construction means for your choice

All Wavian jerry cans use cold-rolled steel with fully welded, recessed seams — the site contrasts this with "crimped metal like cheap knockoff cans" — plus a cam-lever closure with a Viton gasket for a vapor-tight seal that survives cold and heat cycles. Because the 10L and 20L share this construction, you are not trading down in durability by choosing the smaller can. The site also notes the steel body is heavier gauge than commodity cans and holds shape after a drop.

Accessories worth adding at the same time

• Spare spout ($29.99): the same spout that ships in the box. Worth adding if you want a backup or a second spout for a multi-can setup.
• Holders and racks: the site lists mounting options to attach a can to the vehicle. If you are buying for a rig, plan the mount alongside the can.

A quick way to decide

1. Is the liquid fuel? If no, go to the 22L water can.
2. If fuel: do you need maximum capacity and color choice? Take the 20L.
3. If fuel but space or weight is tight: take the 10L — same spec, half the volume.
4. Add a spare spout and a mount if you are outfitting a vehicle.

Shipping is free over $150 per the site; a single 20L or 10L can falls below that threshold, while a can plus a spare spout or a multi-can order may cross it.