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Have you noticed how sparkling water has bubbled up from niche grocery shelves to become a pantry staple? It’s not just a trend — carbonated water offers a soda-like fizz without the sugar or calories, making it a go-to for anyone wanting a refreshing lift without the guilt. Think of it as the sparkling cousin of tap water: same hydration, extra personality. Whether you prefer plain seltzer, mineral water with a natural bite, or lightly flavored varieties that taste like a fruit whisper, there’s a bottle or can for you at most major US retailers.
Shopping for carbonated water in the US is easy thanks to big-box stores and specialty grocers that stock everything from economy packs to premium mineral brands. Below I break down the best places to buy sparkling water, what to expect in terms of selection, and why you might choose one store over another.
Walmart is a go-to for shoppers who want a wide range and low prices. You’ll find multi-packs of 12 oz cans, 24-can cases, and 1-liter-sized bottles, plus familiar brands like LaCroix, Bubly, and private-label seltzer for bargain hunters. If you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or stocking up for the week, Walmart’s bulk pricing often gives the best cost per fl oz. Keep an eye out for rollbacks and clearance on seasonal flavors.
Target blends convenience with trend-savvy options. In addition to big-name brands, you’ll often find exclusive flavors and attractive packaging that looks Instagram-ready on your kitchen shelf. Target’s private-label sparkling water is competitively priced and available in 12-pack boxes of 12 oz cans and single-serve 16.9 fl oz bottles. If you like discovering new flavors, Target’s seasonal assortments are worth a look.
If you drink a lot of sparkling water, Costco’s bulk packs offer tremendous value. Expect 24-count or 30-count multipacks of 12 oz cans and larger 1-liter bottles in economical bundles. Popular choices include Topo Chico and Pellegrino in cases that keep the pantry full for weeks. Note: Costco membership fees apply, but the per-ounce savings can make it worthwhile for regular consumers.
Whole Foods caters to shoppers who care about source and mineral content. Here you’ll find premium mineral waters like Perrier, San Pellegrino, and natural sparkling springs, often in glass bottles. Whole Foods also stocks craft sparkling brands and boutique flavored waters. If you shop online through Amazon (including Whole Foods Prime options), you can score single-origin bottles delivered to your door in convenient 12 oz or 16.9 fl oz sizes.
Kroger and its regional banners (Ralphs, Fred Meyer, King Soopers) offer a dependable mix of national and store-brand sparkling waters. Look for loyalty-program discounts, digital coupons, and buy-one-get-one deals that lower the cost per can. Kroger stores frequently carry both canned and bottled formats in sizes like 12 oz cans and 16.9 fl oz bottles, plus seasonal or exclusive flavors for local tastes.
Trader Joe’s is known for its private-label seltzer flavors that often become cult favorites. Expect affordable 12-pack cans with creative flavor blends. Sprouts emphasizes natural and organic lines, offering mineral waters and citrus-infused sparklers that appeal to health-conscious shoppers. These stores keep things interesting if you want to try non-mainstream flavors without overspending.
ALDI quietly competes in the sparkling water space with low-cost private-label options that often rival name brands in taste tests. You’ll find single-flavor and variety packs in 12 oz and 16.9 fl oz sizes at prices that make stocking up painless. ALDI’s seasonal rotations sometimes include limited-release flavored waters that feel like a bargain discovery.
Want a specific brand delivered to your doorstep? Amazon offers a vast catalog of sparkling waters, from boutique craft brands to everyday seltzers. Look for Subscribe & Save discounts that reduce the price on recurring orders, and pay attention to pack sizes (12-count, 24-count, and more) so you’re not surprised by how many ounces you’re buying. Prime members benefit from faster shipping and bundled savings.
Choosing a brand is like picking a playlist — each has its own vibe. Here are the stalwarts and the upstarts you’ll see across stores, plus what makes each unique.
LaCroix helped define the modern flavored seltzer scene. Its lineup of delicate citrus and fruit blends in 12 oz cans is perfect for sipping all day. LaCroix is prized for being calorie-free, sugar-free, and free of artificial sweeteners, which keeps the flavor bright without overpowering your palate.
Topo Chico stands out for its strong carbonation and distinct mineral taste. Many fans say it’s the most satisfying fizz per ounce, especially in 12 oz and 16.9 fl oz glass bottles. It’s a favorite for cocktails and soda alternatives because the carbonation holds up well when mixed.
Perrier and San Pellegrino bring old-world mineral character and effervescence in elegant glass bottles. Perfect for dinner parties or elevating a simple meal, these brands are readily available in grocery chains and specialty retailers in 11.15 oz (Perrier) and 8.45–8.45 oz sizes often found in multipacks.
Bubly targets a younger crowd with bold, bright flavors and can designs. Polar offers craft seltzers and seasonal specialties with a New England twist. Both brands appear across retailers like Walmart, Target, and grocery chains in 12 oz cans and variety packs for easy sampling.
Spindrift adds a splash of real fruit juice to sparkling water, giving it a noticeably fruitier profile than zero-calorie seltzers. Because it contains real juice, expect a few more calories per can compared to pure seltzer. It’s a great middle ground if you miss actual fruit taste without the sugar bomb of soda.
Choosing the right sparkling water is less about the brand and more about the elements you notice when you take a sip: carbonation level, mineral makeup, flavoring, and packaging. Here’s a quick guide to help you narrow the field.
Some waters feel like a gentle tickle, while others deliver a sharp, mouth-awakening snap. If you like to mix drinks or want bubbles that last, look for brands noted for high carbonation like Topo Chico. For a subtler experience, many flavored seltzers and canned varieties offer lighter carbonation.
Do you want a hint of lemon or a bold grapefruit punch? Flavored seltzers range from faint to intense. Brands that use real fruit juice will taste more natural and sometimes a little sweeter. If you want zero calories and zero sweeteners, stick to plain seltzer or naturally flavored zero-calorie brands.
Mineral waters like Perrier and San Pellegrino have a distinct mouthfeel due to natural minerals like calcium and magnesium. If you enjoy a “mineral bite,” choose spring or mineral waters. If you prefer a neutral base for cocktails or mixers, go with purified seltzer.
Want to keep your kitchen stocked without breaking the bank? Here are practical tricks to cut costs per ounce and avoid buyer’s remorse.
Always check the cost per fluid ounce. A 24-pack of 12 oz cans may be cheaper per fl oz than single 16.9 fl oz bottles. Divide the total price by the total fl oz to compare apples to apples.
Store loyalty programs at Kroger, Walmart (Savings Catcher), and Target (Circle) often discount beverages. Combine these with manufacturer coupons or app-exclusive deals to stack savings.
If you buy the same brand regularly, subscription services like Amazon Subscribe & Save can shave a percentage off every order. Just make sure you’re buying a pack size that fits your storage space and consumption rate.
Flavored and unflavored sparkling waters both have their place. Pick flavored for variety and as a soda substitute; pick unflavored for mixing and plain hydration. Here’s a quick decision map to make it simple.
If you miss soda, flavored seltzers give you a fruit-forward hit without calories or sugar. Variety packs are a great way to taste-test different notes like lime, mango, or cucumber without committing to a full case.
Plain seltzer or mineral water is ideal for cocktails, mocktails, and recipes that need fizz without competing flavors. It’s also the cleanest choice for people who prefer zero additives.
Packaging matters for taste, convenience, and the environment. Each format has pros and cons that affect flavor and recyclability.
Cans are lightweight, chill quickly, and are broadly recyclable. They’re perfect for outdoor gatherings and single-serve convenience. Many brands favor cans for their environmental advantages and convenience.
Glass preserves the flavor and carbonation well and gives a premium presentation at the table. It’s heavier and breaks more easily, so it’s best for home use rather than on-the-go. Many mineral waters come in glass bottles for that upscale touch.
Plastic bottles are convenient for single-serve use, but they’re heavier in landfill impact unless recycled properly. If you choose plastic, look for options made from recycled PET where available.
There’s nothing sadder than flat bubbles. A few simple storage tips will keep your carbonated water lively and enjoyable.
Cold preserves carbonation better than warm. Store cans and bottles in the fridge and keep them upright to reduce the chance of leaks and preserve CO2. If a bottle is opened, reseal tightly and chill — most will retain a fair amount of fizz for a day or two.
Pour from a height for dramatic bubbles or gently for less foam. A chilled glass helps keep carbonation longer — like a tiny refrigerated hug for your drink. For cocktails, a highball or Collins glass shows the bubbles off beautifully.
Whether you’re a casual sipper or a sparkling water fanatic, the US retail landscape makes it easy to find the perfect fizz. From budget-friendly store brands at ALDI and Walmart to premium mineral waters at Whole Foods and specialty shops, there’s a sparkling option for every palate and budget. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors, try multipacks to save, and choose packaging that fits your lifestyle. After all, life’s better with a little sparkle.
Finding the right carbonated water comes down to personal taste, how you plan to use it, and where you prefer to shop. National retailers like Walmart, Target, Costco, and Kroger carry reliable staples and seasonal surprises. Specialty stores and online marketplaces fill in the gaps with premium mineral waters and hard-to-find craft brands. Use the tips above to compare cost per fluid ounce, experiment with flavors, and pick sustainable packaging whenever possible. Once you discover a favorite, stocking up is the only hard part — and now you know where to look.
