You know what’s exceptional in life? Those everyday items that so often hold a special place in our hearts.

For me, one such item is a simple, reliable 32-ounce Nalgene plastic water bottle.

Nalgene started as a scientific supplier, creating durable and leakproof bottles for laboratory use. Scientists started carrying them for personal use due to their durability, and Nalgene quickly caught onto this trend. And like that, a new water bottle brand was born.

Why do I love my Nalgene so much, you might ask? It’s all about the design, functionality, and how each bottle tells a story. They’re durable and practical, with an appealing, no-frills design.

Funny story about how I found Nalgene. I was shopping for some rugged gear from Maxpedition. They equip many folks – from special forces and police officers to adventurers and everyday people.

I found this unique bag of theirs, the Versipack, and stumbled upon Nalgene.

The Versipack has a snug side pocket, just the right size for the 32-ounce Nalgene bottle — which I added to my purchase. Little did I know this bottle would soon become my constant companion. By purchasing this bag, I discovered a brand that proved to be reliable and durable.

What I find so elegant about Nalgene bottles is their simplicity. They’re not flashy; they do their job of holding water exceptionally well. The 32-ounce size is perfect for helping me reach my daily hydration goal. Filling it up each morning and sipping it throughout the day has become a satisfying ritual.

Most of the time, I fill my Nalgene halfway with water at bedtime and pop it in the freezer. Come morning, there are 500 milliliters of solid ice inside. I then fill the rest of the bottle with cold water and sip luxuriously icy H20 all day. (If I want to pamper myself, I’ll treat myself to Evian.)

My Nalgene bottle has been with me through a lot. It’s survived many falls, traveled with me on road trips, and even accompanied me on my Amtrak journeys. Every scratch and mark on it tells a story of our shared adventures. It’s more than a water bottle; it’s a collection of my experiences and a reliable companion.

Using Nalgene also makes me feel good because I’m reducing my use of single-use plastic bottles. It’s a small, significant way I contribute to the fight against plastic waste.

I’ve discovered a whole community of Nalgene users out there. We share stories about our bottles, discuss the different colors and lids, and feel a sense of camaraderie. The company has a Facebook page, too.

So, you see, it’s about more than just hydration. It’s about how an item that originated in a scientific lab has become an integral part of our daily lives. It’s about how a water bottle can represent a sense of community and environmental responsibility — and even form part of our identity.

So yes, I adore my 32-ounce Nalgene. It’s durable, handy, eco-friendly, and always there for me. I can’t wait for all the future adventures we will have together, savoring the simple pleasures in life.

Get one. You’ll see.