The Best Small Water Bottles That Actually Fit in Your Handbag

Let’s be honest. Carrying around a massive water bottle that clunks against your laptop and takes up half your bag is not the vibe. Most of us want something compact, stylish and actually pleasant to use – without sacrificing space for our keys, lip balm or snacks.

So we looked for the best small water bottles that fit in a handbag. They had to be good-looking, lightweight, under 500ml, and actually usable day to day.

What Makes a Great Small Water Bottle?

We kept it simple. These are the things that matter:

  • Under 500ml – so it doesn't take over your whole bag

  • Lightweight – ideally under 300g when empty

  • Good design – because function doesn’t need to look boring

  • Durable and BPA-free – Tritan, stainless steel or glass

  • Bonus features – straps, leak-proof lids, easy to carry

1. Chilly’s Series 2 500ml – Best for Temperature Control

£35 at chillys.com

Chilly’s is the go-to for people who want insulation. The Series 2 keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12. The 500ml version is compact enough for a tote or larger handbag, and the soft-touch finish looks premium. It comes in loads of colours, from minimal to bold.

It’s a bit heavier than others on the list, but that’s the price of double-wall insulation.

Best for: People who want their drink to stay ice cold (or piping hot)
Watch out for: Bulk and weight

2. Sips Water Bottle – Best for Style and Portability

£30 at hellosips.com

Sips was made for people who want hydration without compromising their outfit. The 480ml size is ideal for daily use – enough for a proper drink, but slim and lightweight enough to fit neatly in your handbag.

Made from BPA-free Tritan plastic, it’s strong, ultra light and designed for cool drinks only. What sets it apart is the soft-touch bumper, the neutral colour options and the detachable carry strap. It feels like something from a design shop – not your standard fitness bottle.

Best for: City life, commutes, day-to-night plans
Bonus points: Actually looks like it belongs in your bag

3. Memobottle A6 – Best for Flat Bags and Minimalists

£29 at memobottle.com

The A6 Memobottle is clever. It’s flat, shaped like a notebook, and designed to slide into slim spaces. At 375ml, it’s on the smaller side, but it works well for top-ups or quick errands. Ideal if you carry a structured handbag or laptop sleeve.

The only drawback is the lid – it’s a bit fiddly and not the easiest to open one-handed.

Best for: Slim bags, minimalists, creative types
Watch out for: Small volume and lid faff

4. Frank Green 595ml Bottle – Best for Customisation

£30–£35 at frankgreen.com

Frank Green lets you customise everything – lid, base, colour, even your name. The 595ml version is just on the edge of being "small", but if you’ve got a bit more bag space, it works.

The bottle is insulated, leak-proof and has a cool button lid. But it is bulkier and heavier, so not ideal if you're working with a small crossbody.

Best for: People who want something playful and personal
Watch out for: Size – this one’s borderline big

The Verdict

Chilly’s is a solid option if you care most about keeping drinks cold or hot for long hours. But if you're prioritising style, size and portability, Sips hits the sweet spot.

It looks great, feels light in your bag, and doesn’t scream gym bottle. It’s made to fit into your life – not the other way around. Whether you’re heading to a meeting, running errands or meeting friends for coffee, it’s the one that fits in – literally and aesthetically.

Back to blog