torjugs

Torjugs are portable, insulated storage vessels used to transport liquids and dry goods in speculative fiction and fantasy settings. They are typically built as cylindrical or bulbous containers with a screw-tight cap, a gasket-sealed lid, and a reinforced carrying handle. In many depictions they employ double-wall construction and vacuum insulation to maintain temperature over extended periods. Typical capacities range from 0.5 to 5 liters, with larger models designed for caravans and smaller models for single-person use. Some designs integrate a pour spout and measurement marks, and several variants are intended to be nested or stacked for efficient transport.

Design variants are produced in several materials, including ceramic composites, metal alloys, and high-strength polymers. Some torjugs have rigid outer shells with collapsible interiors, while others are fully rigid. A subset includes a vacuum-sealed inner liner to reduce weight when empty, and many models have grip textures and heat-resistant finishes. Interchangeable lids, spouts, and seals allow customization for different liquids and environments, enabling a modular approach to procurement in speculative economies.

History and usage in fiction: In many works, the name torjug is attributed to the fictional Torji language family, and etymologies vary by author. They are commonly depicted as essential for long journeys, desert caravans, and starship supply lines, valued for leak resistance, temperature control, and durability. Real-world analogues include thermoses and insulated canteens, but torjugs are distinguished by their modular design and world-building versatility.