Wavian Jerry Can Sizes: How to Choose Between 5L, 10L, and 20L for RV Travel

Fuel storage is not only about what kind of can you buy. Size matters just as much. A can that is too small may not give you enough backup fuel for a generator or remote route. A can that is too large may be heavy, awkward to lift, or difficult to store safely on your RV or overland setup.

That is why Wavian NATO-style jerry cans are useful in multiple capacities. The three most practical sizes for RV owners, campers, and overlanders are 5L, 10L, and 20L. Each size has a different role: compact backup, balanced utility, or maximum fuel reserve.

You can explore the available Wavian options in the Wavian Collection.

Quick Size Comparison

The easiest way to think about Wavian jerry can sizes is by use case.

The right choice depends on how much fuel you need, how far you travel, where you store the can, and how comfortably you can lift and pour it.

5L Wavian Jerry Can: Best for Compact Backup Fuel

A 5L Wavian jerry can is the smallest and easiest size to handle. It is a good option when you want emergency fuel without adding much weight or taking up much storage space.

Best uses for a 5L can:

• Short RV trips
• Small campsite tools
• Emergency top-off fuel
• Compact overland kits
• Motorcycles, ATVs, or small engines
• Backup fuel for day trips
• Storage-limited camper setups

The 5L size is especially useful when lifting and pouring weight matters. It is easier for one person to carry, easier to fit into tight storage areas, and less tiring to use frequently.

The tradeoff is capacity. A 5L can is not ideal if you need long generator runtime or serious emergency fuel storage.

10L Wavian Jerry Can: Best All-Around Size

A 10L Wavian jerry can is the middle-ground choice. It offers more useful fuel capacity than a 5L can while staying easier to lift and store than a full 20L can.

Best uses for a 10L can:

• Weekend RV camping
• Small generator backup
• Moderate overland travel
• Camp equipment fuel
• Emergency home fuel rotation
• Tow vehicle support
• Owners who want capacity without too much weight

For many RV owners, 10L is the most practical everyday size. It gives you enough fuel to be useful but does not become as heavy or bulky as a full-size 20L can.

If you camp often but do not want to carry a large fuel reserve, the 10L size is usually the most comfortable compromise.

20L Wavian Jerry Can: Best for Maximum Fuel Reserve

A 20L Wavian jerry can is the classic full-size NATO can. It holds about 5.3 gallons, making it the best choice when fuel reserve matters more than portability.

Best uses for a 20L can:

• RV generator fuel
• Long boondocking trips
• Remote overland travel
• Emergency storm preparation
• Backup gasoline or diesel storage
• Off-grid work sites
• Larger campsite power needs
• Long-distance travel between fuel stops

The 20L size gives you the most useful capacity in one container. That is why it is popular with overlanders, RV owners, and emergency-preparedness users.

The tradeoff is weight. A full 20L can is heavy, so it should be stored securely and lifted carefully. It is best used with proper exterior mounts, stable storage, and a controlled pouring setup.

Which Size Is Best for RV Generator Fuel?

For generator fuel, the right size depends on how often you run the generator and how much fuel it uses.

A 5L can works for short backup use or small generators.
A 10L can works well for weekend trips and moderate generator use.
A 20L can is best for longer boondocking trips or emergency backup power.

If your RV relies heavily on a portable generator for air conditioning, battery charging, or appliances, the 20L size is usually the most useful. If the generator is only for occasional backup, 10L may be enough.

Which Size Is Best for Overlanding?

Overlanding often rewards fuel capacity, but storage space and weight distribution matter.

A 5L can is good for compact emergency reserve.
A 10L can is easier to place on smaller racks or trailers.
A 20L can is best for longer routes with fewer fuel stops.

For many overland setups, two smaller cans can sometimes be easier to balance and store than one large can. For example, two 10L cans allow you to split weight between mounting points. A single 20L can is simpler but heavier.

Which Size Is Best for Emergency Preparedness?

For home emergency fuel storage, the 20L can is usually the most practical because it stores the most fuel per container. However, not everyone wants to lift or pour a full 20L can.

A smart emergency setup might use:

• One 20L can for main backup fuel
• One 10L can for easier handling
• One 5L can for small tools or quick refills

This gives you flexibility. The larger can provides reserve capacity, while the smaller cans are easier to use for quick tasks.

Storage Space: Measure Before You Buy

Before choosing a size, measure the storage location. This is especially important for RVs, camper trailers, vans, and overland racks.

Check:

• Rack dimensions
• Storage compartment height
• Door clearance
• Tie-down points
• Ventilation
• Distance from heat sources
• Weight limits
• Access for lifting the can
• Space for the spout
• Whether the can can remain upright

Do not choose a 20L can if you cannot store it upright and secure it properly. A smaller can that fits safely is better than a larger can stored poorly.

Weight and Handling Matter

Fuel is heavy. The larger the can, the more important handling becomes.

A 5L can is easy for most people to carry and pour.
A 10L can is still manageable but more substantial.
A 20L can can be heavy when full and may require more careful lifting.

Think about who will actually use the can. If one person needs to lift it into a rack, carry it across camp, or pour into a generator, the smaller size may be safer and more comfortable.

Color and Size Together

Wavian cans are often available in multiple colors, including red, yellow, blue, OD green, and black. Color can help organize fuel type, while size can organize use case.

A practical setup:

• Red 20L: Gasoline for generator
• Yellow 20L: Diesel backup
• Red 10L: Weekend generator fuel
• Blue 5L: Utility fuel or clearly labeled specialty fuel
• Black or OD green 10L: Overland spare fuel with clear labeling

Always label the can with fuel type and fill date, even if the color seems obvious.

Safety Tips for All Sizes

No matter which size you use, fuel storage must be handled carefully.

Use these safety rules:

• Store fuel outside RV living spaces
• Keep cans upright
• Secure cans during travel
• Keep away from heat and ignition sources
• Do not overfill
• Use the correct spout
• Refuel equipment only when it is off and cool
• Wipe spills immediately
• Label fuel type and fill date
• Follow local laws and campground rules

A smaller can is not automatically safer if it is stored carelessly. A larger can is not a problem if it is secured and used correctly.

Size-Based Recommendations

Choose 5L if:

• You want the lightest option
• Storage space is limited
• You only need emergency top-off fuel
• You use small equipment
• You want easy pouring

Choose 10L if:

• You want a balanced size
• You camp on weekends
• You use a small generator occasionally
• You want easier handling than 20L
• You prefer flexible storage

Choose 20L if:

• You run a generator regularly
• You boondock for longer periods
• You travel remote routes
• You want serious emergency fuel storage
• You have secure exterior mounting space

Related Wavian Products

Explore available Wavian NATO gas can options here:

• Wavian Collection
• Wavian Jerry Can - Black | The Original NATO Gas Can
• Wavian Jerry Can - OD Green | The Original NATO Gas Can
• Wavian Jerry Can - Blue | The Original NATO Gas Can
• Wavian Jerry Can - Yellow | The Original NATO Gas Can
• Wavian Jerry Can - Red | The Original NATO Gas Can

FAQ

What are the common Wavian jerry can sizes?

Common Wavian jerry can sizes include 5L, 10L, and 20L. The best size depends on your fuel needs, storage space, and how easily you want to carry the can.

Is 20L too heavy for RV use?

A full 20L can is heavy, but it is practical when stored securely and handled carefully. It is best for generator fuel, long trips, and emergency storage.

Is 10L a good size for camping?

Yes. A 10L jerry can is often the best balance for weekend camping because it offers useful capacity without becoming too bulky.

What is a 5L jerry can best for?

A 5L can is best for compact backup fuel, small engines, short trips, and situations where easy carrying matters more than maximum capacity.

Should I buy one large can or two smaller cans?

Two smaller cans can be easier to lift, store, and distribute across a rack. One larger can is simpler and provides more capacity in a single container.

Can I store fuel cans inside my RV?

No. Fuel cans should be stored outside RV living spaces in a secure, ventilated location away from heat and ignition sources.

Should different fuel types use different can colors?

Yes. Color coding helps prevent fuel mix-ups. Red is commonly used for gasoline, yellow for diesel, and blue for kerosene or utility fuel, but every can should still be clearly labeled.

Final Takeaway

Choosing the right Wavian jerry can size is about matching capacity to real use. The 5L size is compact and easy to carry. The 10L size is the most balanced choice for many campers. The 20L size gives the strongest fuel reserve for generators, overlanding, boondocking, and emergency storage.

For RV owners, the best setup may include more than one size. A 20L can can serve as the main fuel reserve, while a 10L or 5L can makes refueling easier around camp. Add clear labels, store each can upright, secure it during travel, and keep fuel outside living spaces.

Explore the available options in the Wavian Collection and choose the size that fits your RV storage space, fuel routine, and travel style.