Hip Flask

[zbc]

I'm buying one of these as an eighteenth birthday present and had a couple of questions that I hope the good folks of PH can answer.

Pewter, stainless steel or some other material? Does it matter? Do any of them change the taste?
Cups or don't bother. I see some come with dainty little cups but shouldn't you just swig from it or am I just uncouth?

Lastly, any recommendations?

[Hosenbugler]

What sort of budget are you looking at? Would quickly add that the cheap ones do look and feel "cheap" . A pouring (filling) funnel is a good accesory.

[piecost76]

A very useful thing to have on the flask is a screw on top that is hinged & stays with the flask when you drink. That way, it can be used with one hand, you don't lose the top & can keep the other hand for eating food!

[CAPP0]

Also make sure it is <100ml so that it can be taken on a plane (full). I have three hip flasks and all of them are just over 100ml, eg 4 fl oz = 113ml. Really annoying!

[opieoilman]

Buy two, a nice one for them to look after and remember, and a cheap one off eBay that it won't matter if they lose.

[zbc]

Thanks guys, all good advice. I hadn't thought of the plane thing. Budget is probably £20-£30. Could stretch a little...