Since I can remember, I've always been the type to grab one plastic water bottle and reuse it over and over (and over) again. I know that technically, that's already kind of a reusable bottle, but for some reason, it just felt cleaner to me than the traditional reusable alternatives.

Every time I tried to switch to a real reusable bottle [1], I'd end up giving up. It was always one of three things: the weird smell that builds up after a few refills, the fact that carrying around a water bottle felt like toting around a baby bottle, or just the plain heaviness of many of them.

But then REI offered to send me one of their popular Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle With Flex Straw Cap [2] ($34, originally $45) for a review. And let me tell you, this thing might have just become my new favorite accessory.

Oh, and you're in luck, because if you've been thinking about upgrading your water bottle situation, REI is having their biggest sale of the year right now. From now until May 26, you can save up to 30 percent off [3] top outdoor brands and gear. And if you're a member (or decide to become one), you get an extra 20 percent off one full-price item and 20 percent off one REI Outlet item with the code ANNIV2025. Not bad timing, right?

What I Love About the Hydro Flask

• It keeps my water cold — like, really cold.
  Hydro Flask promises 24-hour insulation, and I was honestly impressed. No weird metallic taste either (which I hate). I know it sounds dramatic, but I'll die on the hill that every water tastes different, and I'm not drinking out of anything that ruins that.
• It's super easy to clean.
  After five years in NYC without a dishwasher, I finally have one — and yes, the Hydro Flask is dishwasher safe. But even if I didn't, the wide mouth design makes it easy to clean by hand without that "is this even really clean?" anxiety.
• The colors are so cute.
  I got the Indigo one, but there are so many good options: pinks, pistachio green, soft blues. Honestly, I kind of want another one just for the aesthetic.
• I'm actually staying hydrated. [4]
  This is a big one. For the first time in my life, I feel motivated to drink water [5]. The second I notice it getting low, I want to fill it up again. Maybe it's the size (I have the 32 fl oz) or maybe it's the cute design, but either way, it's working.

One Downside of the Hydro Flask

• Once it's full, yeah, it's heavy. That's just the reality of carrying 32 ounces of water in a metal bottle. I'm still not sure I'd bring it with me for a full day out, but it's perfect for staying hydrated at home while I work.

Where to Shop the Hydro Flask

If you're ready to commit to a reusable bottle or just want to treat yourself, you can grab your own Hydro Flask on sale now at REI.com [6]. The Anniversary Sale runs through May 26, and it's the perfect time to snag gear at a discount. Trust me, you'll be just as obsessed as I am.

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