How Easy Is Bottled Water to Find?

Not always. In destinations with well-regulated, safe tap water, bottled water may offer no safety advantage. Where local guidance recommends avoiding tap water, factory-sealed bottled water is often the most practical option. Always check that the cap and seal are intact.

Choose factory-sealed bottles from reputable shops, hotels or supermarkets. Check that the cap has not been tampered with, the bottle is undamaged and the label is clear. Avoid bottles that look refilled, have broken seals or have been stored in questionable conditions.

No. Availability varies by destination and can also change between major cities, tourist areas and remote regions. Our bottled water categories show whether availability is generally easy, moderate or limited, so travellers can plan ahead where necessary.

Where local tap water is not considered safe, sealed bottled water can also be used for brushing teeth and other tasks where water may be swallowed. For ice, the important factor is whether it was made from safe drinking water, not simply whether it looks clean.