A portable fluid transfer apparatus for handling volatile fuels or other chemicals comprises a jug-like container of a convenient volume having a removable cap that can be screwed or clamped onto the neck of the jug and mounted atop the cap is a manually operable rotary vane pump having a first inlet/outlet port disposed within the container when the cap is in place and a second inlet/outlet port external of the jug or container. An elongated, suction/discharge hose having a tether for anchoring the end of the hose in place is affixed to the second inlet/outlet. Manual actuation of the vane pump is then used to transfer a liquid from or into the portable container.