Mike Gawin Jun 28th 2016 These things are fantastic! Rugged totes that can take a beating and still perform. They carry water well, but canvas sweats/weeps and leaks - especially around the seams. If you want them to hold water better/longer, melt some beeswax and soak the seams well. They will still weep, but it drastically improves retention times. If you want to use the toted water for drinking, avoid trying to 'waterproof' the canvas with chemical treatments. If you have about a year to allow it to "dry" (just kidding, but it takes forever) you might try a linseed oil soak to turn the bucket into a sort of "oilskin." Might have to put up with a film on your drinking water for a while, but linseed is derived from flax, so it shouldn't kill you. When not in use they fold flat to about 3/4" thickness. Great addition to your gear!