+ I live in an area with plenty of access to water (i.e. easy to get to source, would only need filtering)
- Need to filter that water...
Water is obviously vital to our needs, but storage has always been an issue due to bulk (space,) weight, and cost of reliable containers.
The water bricks I have actually played with at some expo - they are REALLY nice, but also really effective if you are in an arid climate and absolutely need long term storage solutions.
The aforementioned water Bob is nice as well, but what wasn't mentioned is its use. Basically, its a large bag, that when you know the SHTF is coming, you unroll into your bathtub, connect to the faucet, and fill - presto, a couple hundred gallons of freshwater in your tub. Great with some warning, and no need for a tub, not so great for long term storage. The manufacturer has now come out with some newer products including a heavier duty bag that can then be dragged out of the tub to wherever, or thrown into the back of your pickup, etc. Some nice alternatives to losing use of your bathroom.
I think what this boils down to is a series of questions:
-What is my immediate environment? i.e. I live near a lake/stream, I live in the desert
-I have needs for this much water (W people X Y gallons X Z days worth)
-I have this much budget for water needs in my SHTF planning
For me, my solution was a few cases of bottled water (we like to minimize our use of individual bottles, but they are great for running to the gym, car, etc.) a water bob (cheapo) for emergencies, and a couple of filtration systems including a Berkey