For the most part, yes, at least on a large scale. Proximity to a water source was pretty much a requirement for developments for most of history.
On the smaller side of things, other commenters have already mentioned that we had ways to store water before bottles existed.
remon@ani.social 2 weeks ago
Animal bladders and other organs were used as protable water containers very early on.
DrFistington@lemmy.world 2 weeks ago
Or things like gourds
Carrolade@lemmy.world 2 weeks ago
I was just gonna say, a squash that I cut in half, hollow out and dry is pretty low-tech stuff. Could probably use a coconut if you were in a pinch… Lot of options.
egrets@lemmy.world 2 weeks ago
And skins, tanned, stitched, and treated with resin. Pottery is also an ancient skill.