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If you drive a Subaru Legacy, having a safe, secure way to carry extra fuel can make a long trip or unexpected delay much less stressful. The right jerry can keeps fuel sealed, mounts cleanly to your vehicle, and minimizes spillage or fumes when you need it most. This guide covers seven shortlisted options—the top picks for fit, durability, and ease of use—each evaluated for material, sealing, and handling. Read on to understand the criteria used and how to match a jerry can to your typical driving scenarios.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Mayouko Lockable 20L Steel Jerry Can Holder Rack |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Holder for 5-Gallon Jerry Cans |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder (Model 2798) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | WINMAX Tools Automotive 5-Gallon Steel Jerry Can Holder |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Valpro NATO-Style Steel Jerry Can Holder for 5 Gallon (20L) Cans |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Mount Holder for 5-Gallon Cans |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Wavian USA 20L NATO-Style Jerry Can with Spout |  |
1. Mayouko Lockable 20L Steel Jerry Can Holder Rack
| Capacity fit | 20 Liters (5.3 Gallons) can |
|---|---|
| Material | Cold‑rolled steel |
| Mounting | Pre‑drilled mounting points |
| Hardware | Upgraded stainless steel screws |
This Mayouko holder is a simple steel rack that secures a 20L NATO‑style jerry can for vehicle use. It fastens to a flat surface with multiple pre‑drilled mounting points and includes an outer ring and top bar to capture the can, plus upgraded stainless mounting screws to resist rust. In practice it is used to anchor a metal fuel can to a truck, trailer, or cargo box so the can does not shift or rattle during travel. The lockable design accepts a padlock for theft deterrence and the cold‑rolled steel frame gives a rigid, low‑profile mounting solution that lines up with standard can handles. Downsides are that the rack is just a holder only, so you must provide your own straps or extra hardware for added vibration damping, and several reviewers note the outer ring can bow under heavy off‑road stress so it is better for restrained, vehicle‑mounted storage than freestanding use. Installation is straightforward and the unit is a practical way to keep a metal jerry can secure on a Subaru Legacy roof rack or cargo carrier when you need extra fuel for long trips.
Best for: Reliability‑focused buyers who prioritize secure, low‑maintenance fuel storage and want a rugged, lockable rack to keep a metal 20L can mounted and immobile during longer trips.
Less Ideal for: Buyers who need a freestanding or standalone fuel container solution or who prefer a holder with integrated straps and vibration isolation should consider alternative mounting systems.
- Built from cold‑rolled steel for a rigid mounting frame
- Pre‑drilled multiple mounting points for versatile attachment locations
- Lockable design lets you add a padlock for theft deterrence
- Stainless steel screws supplied to reduce corrosion risk during outdoor use
- Holder does not include straps or cushioning to prevent can vibration or noise
- Outer ring can deform with heavy off‑road abuse and may need reinforcement
Verdict A dependable, lockable steel rack that secures a 20L metal jerry can for vehicle mounting, best when bolted in and not used freestanding.
2. Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Holder for 5-Gallon Jerry Cans
| Fitment | 5 gallon jerry can only |
|---|---|
| Mounting type | Wall mount, corner mount |
| Finish type | Powder Coated |
| Manufacturer | Racewill |
This Racewill jerry can holder is a reinforced steel bracket that secures a 5-gallon NATO-style metal or compatible Scepter water/fuel can and locks the top retainer with stainless steel security screws. It mounts to flat surfaces like a Subaru Legacy cargo area, trunk wall, or rear deck using the supplied plate sections and can be positioned for vertical or corner mounting. The powder-coated finish resists corrosion for outdoor use and the U-bayonet lock gives extra theft protection when parked. Installation is straightforward but requires drilling and basic hand tools; mounting holes are not open slots so careful marking is needed. The kit ships without thread locker and some users note the sheet metal feels thin in high-vibration setups, so add locking compound on fasteners and check tightness periodically. For drivers who need a compact, lockable place to carry a single 5-gallon can on road trips or work runs, this offers a secure, space-saving solution; it is less ideal where a lighter universal fit or tool-free mounting is required.
Best for: Practical, convenience-driven buyers who want a compact, lockable way to carry an extra 5-gallon can in a Subaru Legacy for road trips or work without sacrificing cargo space.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a no-drill, quick-release solution or who plan to carry nonstandard can shapes frequently should consider alternative mounts or bespoke racks.
- Lockable U-bayonet and stainless security screws add theft protection.
- Powder-coated steel resists corrosion for outdoor and trunk use.
- Detachable, configurable mounting lets you place it on a trunk wall, cargo area, or corner.
- Designed for standard 5-gallon NATO-style jerry cans and common Scepter containers.
- Mounting requires drilling and precise hole alignment because bolt holes are not open slots.
- Some panels and straps feel relatively thin and may require reinforcement for heavy-duty use.
- Hardware does not include thread locker and bolts may loosen under vibration without periodic checking.
Verdict A compact, lockable steel holder that secures a single 5-gallon jerry can in a Subaru Legacy but requires careful drilling and occasional maintenance for long-term vibration resistance.
3. Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder (Model 2798)
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Finish Type | Powder Coated |
| Special Feature | Detachable |
| Holds | 5 gallon can |
| Mounting Type | Floor Mount |
The Smittybilt Jerry Can Holder is a full-metal bracket intended to mount a 5-gallon steel jerry can to a vehicle, providing extra fuel storage for long trips. It installs using the frame’s multiple mounting holes so you can bolt it to a roof rack, spare-tire carrier, or a custom mount on a Subaru Legacy’s roof or rear carrier, and the powdercoat finish helps resist corrosion from road exposure. The lockable top strap keeps the can secured in place while driving and rubber isolators reduce metal-on-metal contact. In practice the holder is simple to fit and rugged enough for infrequent overland use, but some users report thin welds and missing rubber pads that can allow rattling or surface wear over time. The design favors steel cans and may need minor modification or additional padding to fit other container shapes. If you plan to carry a single metal 5-gallon can on a Legacy for extended range, this bracket delivers a durable, no-frills solution, though heavier-duty fabrication might be preferable for daily off-road abuse.
Best for: Performance-oriented buyers who prioritize rugged, factory-quality accessories to extend driving range on long Subaru Legacy trips and want a straightforward, bolt-on fuel storage solution.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a theft-proof or vibration-free daily mount for heavy off-road use or who plan to carry nonstandard plastic containers should consider a purpose-built rack or custom-fabricated solution.
- Full welded alloy steel construction for sturdy support and durability
- Powder-coated finish improves corrosion resistance for outdoor use
- Lockable top strap secures a 5-gallon metal jerry can during transport
- Multiple mounting holes allow flexible placement on racks or spare-tire carriers
- Some reported quality-control issues at welds and with the hold-down hardware
- Rubber isolators can fall out or be missing, requiring aftermarket padding
- Designed primarily for steel cans so many plastic containers will not fit
Verdict A solid, simple steel bracket for carrying a single 5-gallon metal can on a Subaru Legacy, but expect occasional QC issues and plan to add padding or reinforcements for heavy use.
4. WINMAX Tools Automotive 5-Gallon Steel Jerry Can Holder
| Material | Alloy Steel |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 5 Gallons |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
| Hand Orientation | both |
This steel jerry can holder is a basic, no-frills mounting solution for carrying a 5-gallon metal fuel can. It clamps the can in a welded metal cradle, uses a top strap that can be locked to deter theft, and arrives powder-coated to resist corrosion. Typical use is exterior mounting on a vehicle or trailer where extra fuel range is needed; the base has pre-drilled holes for bolting and can be adapted to rear bumpers, racks, or custom brackets. The construction is noticeably heavier than plastic carriers and several buyers report it holds NATO and common 5-gallon cans securely. Expect to do a little trimming or minor modification on some cans so the strap closes properly, and some customers found misaligned welds or slightly off hole spacing that required small adjustments. Corrosion protection is good but not perfect in harsh marine or coastal conditions. If you need a simple, budget-friendly metal carrier and are comfortable with light modification and mounting work, this performs well for the price.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a sturdy, low-cost metal carrier to add emergency or extended-range fuel capacity to a Subaru Legacy and are willing to do basic mounting work.
Less Ideal for: Those seeking a perfect, plug-and-play factory-quality mounting solution or a rustproof stainless steel carrier for heavy coastal use should consider higher-end alternatives.
- Full-metal construction provides greater durability than plastic carriers
- Lockable top strap adds theft deterrence and keeps the can secure in transit
- Powder-coated finish resists surface corrosion in normal road use
- Pre-drilled mounting holes let you bolt the holder to bumpers, racks, or trailers
- May require trimming or minor modification for some jerry can lid designs to allow the strap to latch
- Manufacturing variances reported such as slightly misaligned welds and off-center holes
- Not stainless steel so long-term corrosion can appear in very salty or wet environments
Verdict A tough, inexpensive steel holder that secures a 5-gallon can well for DIY mounting on a Subaru Legacy but may need minor modifications and careful rust prevention.
5. Valpro NATO-Style Steel Jerry Can Holder for 5 Gallon (20L) Cans
| Manufacturer | VALPRO |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | GJC003 |
| OEM Part Number | GJC003 270.00 |
This Valpro jerry can holder is a steel mounting bracket designed to secure 5 gallon NATO-style cans for vehicle- or wall-mounted storage. It uses a welded steel frame with a steel locking strap that fits over the can and two pre-drilled slots that accept a universal padlock, and it includes holes for bolting the holder to a vehicle rack or garage surface. For Subaru Legacy owners who need a durable, low-profile mounting point for a single jerry can, the holder keeps a filled can stable during transport and resists rust with a protective powder coat. Installation is straightforward for someone comfortable drilling and bolting to a rack, though some users report needing minor modifications to fit non-standard cans. The main compromise is compatibility since it is built for NATO-style military cans and may not accept all stainless or aftermarket can shapes without adjustment. If you prioritize a robust, corrosion-resistant mount over a universal fit, this holder delivers a solid, long-lasting solution.
Best for: Risk-averse, practical Subaru Legacy owners who prioritize a durable, factory-quality mounting solution for carrying a single emergency fuel can and who prefer proven, heavy-duty hardware over novelty designs.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a universal holder for a wide variety of non-NATO can shapes or those who want a quick-release or tool-free mounting system should consider other options.
- Heavy gauge steel construction for rugged, long-term use
- Powder coated finish helps resist rust and corrosion in road conditions
- Steel locking strap with slots for a padlock secures the can during transport
- Pre-drilled mounting holes allow bolting to a vehicle rack or a wall
- Designed specifically for NATO-style cans and may not fit some aftermarket or stainless cans
- May require minor modifications or custom mounting hardware for some installations
Verdict A robust, military-style steel holder that secures NATO 5 gallon jerry cans well but may need modification for non-standard cans.
6. Racewill Lockable Jerry Can Mount Holder for 5-Gallon Cans
| Mounting Type | Wall Mount, Corner Mount |
|---|---|
| Special Features | Foldable |
| Usage | jerry can mount |
| Included Components | Jerry Can Mount Holder |
This Racewill jerry can mount holds a standard 5-gallon NATO-style can and secures it with a lockable top strap for theft protection. Made from cold-rolled steel with a painted finish, the bracket is intended to be bolted to a bed wall, corner, or other flat surface where you need a fixed fuel or water container. The foldable design saves space when not in use and reviewers report the holder fits common Scepter-style water and metal fuel cans. In practice it offers a low-cost, sturdy mounting solution for carrying an extra can on trips, service vehicles, or inside a garage. Expect a short assembly and basic mounting hardware is not always included so you may need to supply bolts and threadlocker. Some buyers found the metal relatively thin and needed minor modifications for a perfect fit on certain can brands, so plan for light fabrication or test-fit before final installation in the vehicle.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want a budget-friendly, secure way to carry an extra 5-gallon can in their Subaru Legacy for longer trips or emergency range extension.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a no-modification, plug-and-play solution or who prefer a precision-fit factory-style carrier for their vehicle should consider purpose-built roof or trunk systems instead.
- Lockable top strap provides theft deterrence when parked or stored
- Cold-rolled steel construction and painted finish resist everyday wear
- Foldable design saves space when not carrying a can
- Fits standard 5-gallon NATO-style and many Scepter-style cans
- Mounting hardware is not consistently included so additional fasteners may be required
- Some users report thin metal and fitment issues with certain can brands
Verdict A practical, low-cost lockable mount for carrying a 5-gallon can in a Subaru Legacy if you are willing to supply hardware and make minor fitment adjustments.
7. Wavian USA 20L NATO-Style Jerry Can with Spout
| Capacity | 20 Liters |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Construction | 0.9 mm cold-rolled steel |
| Exterior | Powder coat paint |
| Compliance | EPA & CARB compliant |
The Wavian USA 20L jerry can is a heavy-duty steel fuel container built to NATO-style specifications for long-term fuel storage and transport. In practice it holds a full 20 liters (about 5 gallons) and is used for topping off vehicles on long trips, storing emergency fuel, or carrying spare gasoline on off-road outings. Notable features include 0.9 mm cold-rolled steel construction with anti-corrosive coating, a bayonet-style quick-release spout with safety lock, and a powder-coated exterior that resists abrasion and weather. The can meets EPA and CARB compliance, so it is legally acceptable for use across North America, and reviewers report it seals reliably and resists leaking even when handled roughly. Expect secure, long-lasting performance and a fast pour rate when the spout is fitted, but be prepared to manage occasional pressurization and the short plastic spout storage clip that some users find flimsy. The included pour adapter can be tight to assemble for small-filling tasks, and some owners choose a longer spout for easier access to recessed filler necks.
Best for: Buyers who want a balanced, reliable fuel container that prioritizes durability and legal compliance for road trips, emergency storage, and outdoor use.
Less Ideal for: If you need lightweight, single-hand plastic cans for frequent quick refills or a built-in long reach spout, this heavy steel NATO-style can is not the most convenient option.
- Military-style steel construction for durability and long service life
- EPA and CARB compliant for legal use across North America
- Bayonet quick-release spout with safety lock for controlled, spill-reducing pours
- Powder-coated finish that resists corrosion and wear
- Plastic spout storage clip is not very secure and may require modification
- Standard spout can be short for some filling situations and some users prefer a longer aftermarket spout
Verdict A rugged, legally compliant 20L steel jerry can that delivers reliable, leak-resistant fuel storage and transfer for drivers who value durability and dependability.
Choosing the Right Subaru Legacy Jerry Can: Key Factors to Consider
Material and Construction
The material determines long-term durability and how the can reacts to impacts and environmental exposure. Metal cans resist punctures and can withstand rough handling, while high-quality plastics can resist corrosion and are lighter for carrying. Construction details such as reinforced seams, welded joints, or molded one-piece bodies reduce leak risk.
Also consider how the chosen material interacts with different fuels. Some plastics are formulated to resist gasoline and ethanol blends, while certain metals include coatings to prevent rust. The feel of the can and the ease of cleaning are practical concerns for repeated use.
Seal and Spout Design
A reliable sealing system prevents vapor escape and fuel leaks during transport and storage. Look for gaskets that compress evenly, threaded caps with positive stops, or locking closures that resist accidental opening. Poor sealing increases odor, evaporative loss, and fire risk.
Spout design affects how easily you can fill and pour without spills. A well-designed spout will vent properly to allow smooth flow, include a secure attachment to avoid separation while pouring, and may have automatic shutoff or dust covers to keep contaminants out.
Mounting and Fitment
How the can mounts in or on your Subaru Legacy affects safety and convenience. Consider the footprint and profile of the can relative to available trunk or cargo space, and whether it can be secured with straps or a dedicated bracket. A stable mounting solution reduces the chance of tipping and spillage during cornering or sudden stops.
Also think about access for filling and removal. A can that is awkward to take in and out of tight spaces will increase the chance of spills when handling.
Capacity and Weight
Capacity determines how much extra range you gain, but larger cans add significant weight that affects handling and cargo limits. Choose a size that balances the extra fuel you need with the weight you are comfortable carrying and securing in the vehicle.
Consider whether you will frequently carry the can or only for occasional emergencies. Smaller junior-style cans are easier to lift and stow, while larger cans reduce refill frequency but require stronger mounting and more careful handling.
Compatibility with Fuel Types
Not all cans are equally suitable for gasoline, diesel, or ethanol blends. Materials, seals, and spouts must resist the chemical properties of the fuel you plan to store. Using an incompatible container can lead to seal degradation, contamination, or premature failure.
Check manufacturer guidance for approved fuels and be mindful of how long you will store fuel. For temporary emergency storage, short-term compatibility is usually sufficient, but for longer storage you need a can rated for that fuel type.
Safety and Regulatory Features
Safety features reduce risk during transport and use. Look for flame arrestors, child-resistant caps, clearly labeled venting paths, and designs that minimize static buildup during transfer. Vents that allow controlled pressure equalization help ensure smooth pouring and reduce splashing.
Regulatory compliance or certification provides added assurance that the can meets recognized safety standards. Even when regulations vary by jurisdiction, prioritizing proven safety features helps lower accident and spill risk.
FAQ
Can I store gasoline in a plastic fuel can long term?
Plastic fuel cans designed for gasoline usually work for short-term storage, but long-term storage can degrade some plastic types and seals. For extended storage, choose a can specifically rated for long-term gasoline storage and check that seals and materials are compatible with ethanol blends.
How should I mount a jerry can in my Subaru Legacy?
Mount the can in a stable location with straps or a bracket that prevents movement and tipping. Secure it low and centered if possible to reduce impact on vehicle handling, and ensure the filler cap is reachable without awkward lifting that could cause spills.
Is a metal jerry can better than a plastic one?
Metal cans tend to be more impact resistant and can last longer under rough use, while plastic cans are lighter and resist corrosion. The better choice depends on how you plan to carry the can, the fuels you will store, and your tolerance for weight versus durability.
How do I prevent spills when pouring from a fuel can?
Use a vented spout and hold the can steady while pouring. A spout with controlled flow and a secure attachment reduces splashes. Pour slowly and, if possible, place the receiving tank at a lower height to minimize overflow risk.
Can I keep a jerry can in my vehicle year-round?
You can keep a properly rated can in your vehicle, but be mindful of temperature extremes and ventilation. Hot conditions can increase pressure in the container, so ensure vents are functioning correctly and the can is secured to prevent leaks or vapor buildup.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Legacy Jerry Can
We focused on attributes that matter for carrying fuel with a Subaru Legacy and for everyday roadside readiness. Key evaluation criteria included material durability to resist dents and corrosion, seal and spout design to prevent leaks and vapor escape, mounting and carry ergonomics so the can fits securely and is easy to handle, compatibility with common fuel types to ensure safe storage, and capacity and weight balance to avoid overloading the vehicle. We also considered ease of filling and pouring, venting features for smooth flow, and regulatory safety features such as flame arrestors or child-resistant closures where applicable. Products were excluded if they lacked robust sealing, used questionable materials for long-term fuel storage, or had poor ergonomics that risk spills. The final list prioritizes cans that offer practical, reliable performance for vehicle use and emergency scenarios.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Subaru Legacy jerry can means balancing durability, sealing performance, and fitment for your vehicle. Prioritize a can with reliable seals and a spout that pours cleanly, choose a material and capacity that suit how often you will carry fuel, and ensure the can can be secured safely in your cargo area. Accept the tradeoffs between weight and capacity, and favor proven safety features and compatible materials for the fuel you use. Those priorities will help you carry emergency or supplemental fuel with confidence.
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