5 Best Hydration Pack for Hiking
Stay healthy during your adventures with the best hiking pack for hiking. If you don't know how to choose the right one, Getawaywell is here for you.
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We have all been there, hiking in the middle of woods and the earthy scent of nature surrounding us, while our water bottles clank as they collide with each other. Aside from the distracting noise they make as you walk, they are heavy and take up space that could be occupied by other important items.
Fortunately, hydration packs exist. These tools provide adventurers with consistent and accessible hydration thanks to their size and the tube connected to the water reservoir. If you’re wondering where to get one of these convenient accessories we bring you a list of 5 of the best hydration packs for hiking. For more information on the best backpack for air travel follow the link.
Quick Answers: The Best Hydration Packs for Hiking
- Best for long hikes: Gregory Mountain Products Citro 36 H2O Hydration Backpack
- Best for short hikes: CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Pack, 100oz
- Best for under 200: Evoc Ride 12 Backpack
- Best for under 100: Nathan Unisex Hydration Back-Pack
Best Hydration Pack for Hiking Pros and Cons
You know the facts but still can’t make a decision? If you still have doubts about your purchase, let us give you a quick review of the best 5 hydration packs for hiking by pointing out their advantages and downsides.
Hydration packs come in different shapes and sizes, catering to many adventurers and their preferred activities. So if you need some guidance choosing one, the best hydration packs for hiking are below.
Gregory Mountain Products Citro 36 H2O Hydration Backpack
Adventurous people will find everything they need in the Gregory Mountain Citro 36 H2O Hydration Pack. This product comes with several pockets, padded for your comfort, a shoulder harness for better grip, and an included reservoir with a capacity of 30lbs. What’s best is that its ventilation system will keep your water fresh, making it a good choice for long adventures.
Pros:
- Provides ventilation
- Has a great reservoir capacity
- Has several adjustment straps
- Several color options
- Durable materials
Cons:
- Might fit too snugly for people with a bigger frame
- You might need an insulation hose for your reservoir
- Doesn’t include a strap for poles
Osprey Manta 34 Hiking Hydration Backpack
This 34-liter pack has a panel with direct access to the main compartment. In addition, you can fit your pocket camera, extra clothing, and other essentials in seven pockets that will secure your load. The Osprey Manta 34 hiking hydration backpack weighs 3 pounds 1.4 ounces, making it perfect for people who need to carry several elements. This backpack is excellent for a Canoe Camping trip.
Pros:
- Quick-disconnecting tube feature
- Integrated rain cover
- 3D tensioned back panel for ventilation
- Bite valve attachment feature
- Trekking pole attachment
Cons:
- Might be too large for short people
- Hip pockets can be hard to open
CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Pack, 100oz
If you use trekking poles, you might need a hydration pack that can carry them and makes it easy for you to remove them when needed. In that case, the CamelBak Fourteener 24 Hydration Pack is ideal for you. Its 3L reservoir is perfect for staying hydrated while hiking, and it has multiple pockets for maximum organization.
Pros:
- Very comfortable
- Fits a 3L Camelbak reservoir
- Perfect for experienced hikers
Cons:
- Too large for short people
- The reservoir tube can be short for some users
Nathan Unisex Hydration Back-Pack
Among the best hydration pack for hiking, the Nathan Unisex Hydration Back-Pack takes the lead with its low weight and large storage space. Thanks to its side pockets, you will have your essentials at hand, and its 2L capacity makes it perfect for short hikes or runs.
Pros:
- Ultralight
- Bounce-free harness
- Easy-to-access front pockets
- Fits both men and women
Cons:
- The water tube can crack easily
- Doesn’t have much storage capacity, so it isn’t ideal for long hikes
Evoc Ride 12 Backpack
The Evoc Ride 12 backpack is the perfect blend of storage capacity and comfort. This 2-liter bladder has an integrated whistle, elastic strap retainers, and accessible hip pockets for a complex hike where you need several items at hand. Thanks to the user-friendly features of this hydration pack for hiking, it is one of the best backpacks you can get for a comfortable adventure.
Pros:
- Good storage capacity
- Easy to access the bladder
- Hip pockets
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Doesn’t include a rain cover
- Only comes with a 2L bladder
How to Choose the Best Hydration Pack for Hiking
Many people don’t pay a lot of attention to their hydration packs. This often leads to a big disappointment when, in the middle of the forest, they realize they have stopped several times to take something out of their backpack, yet again.
For that reason, it is important to analyze your needs. Do you have long or short hikes? Are you the type of person who carries loads of things around? Are you interested in comfort or functionality, or both? Choosing the best hydration pack depends on many aspects, all of them equally important for a good purchase.
If you need some guidance regarding how to choose the best hydration pack for hiking, the next section can give you some valuable insight.
What Qualities to Look for in the Best Hydration Pack for Hiking
Types of Hydration Packs
Do you plan to run, cycle, or hike with your hydration reservoir? The truth is that even if hydration packs all have a bladder, the design of the backpack varies depending on the activity. It is better to look for small packs that have enough cargo for food, clothes, and other essentials for hiking.
Hydration Pack Gear Capacity
While the reservoir is what makes hydration packs different from normal hiking backpacks, it is still important to think about gear capacity when buying a hydration pack. For longer hikes, 20 liters can be enough for all your belongings. On the contrary, shorter hikes may require anything between 5 and 20 liters or even less.
Reservoir Capacity
Depending on the type of terrain you will hike through, you will need more or less water. Hydration packs come from 5 liters to over 80 liters, and the one you choose will depend on how long your trek is and the amount of weight you can carry. Moreover, the best hydration pack will still allow you to carry enough gear even with a large reservoir.
Hydration Pack Fit
Now that you know what capacity you need for your hike choose a hydration pack that fits properly to avoid accidents and provides comfort. Search for a hydration pack that comes with adjustable torso straps and has a snug grip on your hips, especially if you are going on a multi-day trek.
Extra Features
A waterproof cover, disconnecting and magnetic tube, and several access points can make a great difference between a good hydration pack and the best hydration pack for hiking. If you are all about extra features and pockets, hydration packs that come with valuable extras can add to your experience.
Women-specific Hydration Pack
Unfortunately, not all hydration packs are designed with the anatomical differences between men and women in mind. Still, some hydration packs have hip belts and shoulder straps that are contoured with the female shape in mind. In addition, torso dimensions are generally shorter. However, some of them will have less capacity than a regular hydration pack.
Now that we have introduced you to 5 of the best hydration packs for hiking, it is your time to choose the right one for your next adventure. Get away from the ordinary with a top-quality hiking pack and stay hydrated while exploring nature.