gourde

Gourde is a portable container used to carry liquids, especially water. In Francophone contexts, it denotes a bottle or canteen used by hikers, campers, soldiers, students, and travelers to stay hydrated during activities. The word is common in France, Belgium, and Canada, notably in Quebec, where gourde is widely used for a water bottle.

Most gourdes are designed to be lightweight and leakproof. They are typically made from metal (stainless steel or aluminum) or plastic, with some models in glass or silicone. Common features include a screw-cap, a flip-top lid, or a bite valve for easy drinking, and in some cases a straw or nozzle. Capacities usually range from about 500 milliliters to 1 liter; there are also smaller or larger models, and collapsible gourdes made of flexible silicone or film for compact packing. Many modern gourdes are designed to be BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, though some plastics require hand washing.

In use, gourdes are preferred to disposable bottles for environmental and economic reasons. They come in insulated forms to keep liquids cold or hot for several hours, and in rugged versions with protective sleeves or carabiner attachments for outdoor use. Cleaning and maintenance emphasize thorough drying to prevent odor or mold. The gourde is commonly associated with outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, scouting, and military field exercises, and remains a staple for reusable hydration.