The Matador Waterproof Pill Canister is ideal for backpackers and outdoor adventurers seeking a dependable way to carry their medications or vitamins in the backcountry. It’s easy to dismiss a pill case as a minor detail, but anyone who’s had wet or crushed pills during a trip knows it can quickly become a major headache.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The Matador pill canister features a robust, anodized aluminum shell that won’t get crushed when stuffed into a backpack or accidentally pop open, unlike the cheap plastic pill organizers sold at the drug store. Weighing 2.8 oz (80g) empty, it features an IPX4 water-resistance rating, ensuring the exterior remains waterproof even if it gets damp, but not submerged (if that happens, you likely have other issues). This rating should still give you peace of mind if you’re hiking in wet climates, something plastic cases can’t offer.

The aluminum sleeve prevents the case from being crushed, while the rear lanyard makes it easy to attach it to a ‘biner or another object.

Organization and Capacity

Inside, the Matador has seven numbered slots, one for each day of the week, emblazoned on a removable sliding insert. For backpackers who take one or two pills per day, this is the perfect balance of organization and simplicity. You can open it up on the trail or at camp and immediately see if you’ve missed a dose.

Numbered bins let you keep track of your daily meds.

The capacity is best suited for standard-sized tablets or capsules. If you need to carry large fish oil pills or several daily medications, space might be tight. However, for most hikers and backpackers with basic medication or supplement needs, it’s just right. The slim shape is easy to slip into any backpack pocket or stuff sack.

Weight and Packability

At just 2.8 oz (80g), this pill canister is a reasonable addition to any backpacking setup, especially considering the protection it offers. There are lighter options out there, but none offer this combination of waterproofing, crush resistance, and organization.

Downsides

The main drawback is the compartment size, it is optimized for a daily medicine regimen. If your medication routine is complicated or involves large tablets, you’ll have to get creative or pack more than pill canister. Still, I can get eight decent-sized capsules into each day’s bin which should be plenty of space for most people. The price ($20) is higher than that of typical plastic organizers, but you’re paying for much better waterproofing and durability.

There are seven bins in the sleeve and each one has plenty of room for your meds.

Recommendation

For backpackers who need to carry medication or supplements in demanding conditions, the Matador Waterproof Pill Canister is an excellent upgrade from standard pill boxes or makeshift solutions. It keeps pills dry in all weather, and offers just enough organization to keep you on your meds when you’re not home. If you know how important it is to keep meds safe on the trail, this waterproof pill canister deserves a place in your pack.

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