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Seventy-five percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. I’m a hiking guide in Alaska, and I’m constantly stopping on my hikes to encourage my guests to drink water. I always rely on a hydration pack for myself because I know I would never drink enough water while hiking and guiding otherwise. It’s amazing to be able to sip as you hike, instead of stopping and chugging, and stopping and chugging. My team of testers checked out eight options in search of the best hydration packs for runners, hikers, bikers, and those with a budget.
- Best Overall: CamelBak Octane 16 Hydration Hiking Pack
- Best Budget: REI Co-Op Link 10L
- Best for Hiking: Osprey Mira 22/Manta 24
- Best Plus Size Women’s: Gregory Juno 30 H20 Plus Size
- Best for Biking: HydroFlask 14L Down Shift Hydration Pack
- Best for Running: Nathan Crossover 15L Hydration Pack
- Best for Cold Water: Brumate Paragon
How I Tested the Best Hydration Packs
There are countless day pack brands out there, and a good number that are compatible for hydration. However, only a handful of backpacks include a reservoir and/or make their own bladder. I picked out eight hydration backpacks from brands like CamelBak, HydroFlask, Osprey, and Gregory, and solicited six testers for the test. This included my husband and I, who are both out guiding day hikes through the summer. Two of the other testers were trail runners in Alaska, one was a weekend warrior in Washington, and one was a weekend warrior in Oregon. Collectively, the pack test accumulated 100+ miles over July and August.
Best Hydration Packs: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: CamelBak Octane 16 Hydration Hiking Pack
Key Features
- Weight: 1 pound, 7 ounces
- Gear Capacity: 14 liters
- Reservoir Capacity: 2 liters
- Pockets: Main body stretch overflow pockets, two mesh side pockets that fit 32-ounce bottles, angled smaller pocket on one side, two pockets on oversized shoulder straps
- Unisex
Pros
- Roll-top closure for pack and zipper closure for reservoir
- Dual sternum straps and vest-style shoulder straps
- Multiple pockets
- Various points of reflectivity
- Red poppy color good for hunting season
Cons
- Heavy weight-to-capacity ratio
- Small volume for gear
The CamelBak Octane 16 is best suited for trail running and summer hiking when there’s not much of a consequence for carrying a lighter load. It delivers a lot of bells and whistles, especially for its price point.
There is a vest-like harness, oversized shoulder straps, and two sternum straps, but no hip belt, so our tester limited her load since the majority of the weight was on her shoulders. Still, she successfully carried up to 15 pounds by filling the 2-liter bladder with water. The rest of the internal compartment held a fleece and a rain shell, and she stashed snacks, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and a dog leash into the six remaining pockets. The roll-top closure allowed top access to the main compartment. A full-length vertical zipper allowed access to the bottom items.
Camelbak’s new Fusion reservoirs are designed for ease. They have a rigid backplate to help with drying, a grip for single-handed filling at sinks, and a durable and secure zipper closure that is not fussy at all. The reservoir has a dedicated spot in the pack with a buckle attachment. The hose goes through a hole, then a bungee over the shoulder, and stays in place with a clip. The bite valve is designed to deliver more water for each sip.
The ridged foam of the pack molded to the tester’s back with an overlay of mesh for airflow, but she noticed some sweat along the mesh front straps when temps rose to 90 degrees in Oregon.
Best Budget: REI Co-Op Link 10L
Key Features
- Weight: 1 pound, 2 ounces
- Gear Capacity: 10 liters
- Reservoir Capacity: 1.5 liters
- Pockets: Three small mesh pockets (one zippered) inside the pack, one zippered pocket outside, plus side sleeves
- Unisex
Pros
- Fits multiple body types
- Best bang for your buck
Cons
- Heavier weight for a running pack
- Must take bladder out to fill
The REI Co-Op Link, designed to be unisex, fit both members of our married couple tester team, one of whom weighs 40 pounds more than the other. The multiple points of adjustment on the waist and sternum straps hugged each person’s body adequately to prevent the pack from flopping around or messing up their balance. According to our male tester, though, having a waist strap versus a hip belt resulted in more chafing when running.
The pack’s design purposely positions the bladder at the lumber for weight distribution. The reservoir is basically the size of a piece of paper (8.7 x 10.2 inches) when flat and has a 1.5-liter capacity, which is a bit squatter than the more common taller and narrower reservoirs. It does need to be removed from the pack to fill, but the zipper to get into the interior chamber goes three-quarters around the outside, so there’s easy access.
The bladder didn’t leak on trail runs, which is likely due to the two-part zip and attached plastic slide closure. The puzzle does take a minute to figure out, but even beginners were able to decipher it. The tube and mouthpiece of the bladder not only clamped in place for runs, but was even accessible hands free.
Though the padded lumbar cushion was comfortable, our testers called it heavy duty, and predicted it would result in back sweat if temps rose above 60 degrees. Also, the weight of the REI Co-Op Link straddled the line between a hiking or biking hydration pack versus a running pack.
Best for Hiking: Osprey Mira 22/Manta 24
Key Features
- Weight: 3 pounds, 4 ounces
- Gear Capacity: 22 liters (women’s) and 24 liters (men’s)
- Reservoir Capacity: 2.5 liters
- Pockets: Dual zippered hipbelt pockets, front panel stretch, top zippered pocket, interior mesh zippered pocket
- Male and female versions available
Pros
- High-capacity volume
- Lots of pockets
- Includes rain cover
- No back sweat thanks to breathable back panel
Cons
- Heavy
- Magnet for mouthpiece and sternum doesn’t stay in place
This is an all-around comfortable pack to carry, even up to 30 pounds. For one, the springboard mesh back panel keeps the weight off your back and allows for ventilation. While both the male and female versions of this pack are one size fits all, there is 4 inches of adjustability for the torso length. Lastly, the hipbelt and harness are both padded with EVA foam, but a mesh lining makes them breathable.
The 2.5-liter reservoir has a dedicated compartment and hangs on a clip. There is a clip on the shoulder harness for the tube, but the magnetic bite valve attachment on the chest strap never really stayed in place while wearing on the move.
Other highlights of the pack include five large internal and external pockets, an integrated rain cover, a whistle on the chest strap, trekking pole stowaway attachments, and an ice tool loop with a bungee tie-off.
Best Plus Size Women’s: Gregory Juno 30 H20 Plus Size
Key Features
- Weight: 2 pounds, 2.5 ounces
- Gear Capacity: 30 liters
- Reservoir Capacity: 3 liters
- Pockets: Two zippered hipbelt, one interior mesh zippered, one top zippered, one front stretchy pocket, two side mesh
- Women’s (Citro is the men’s counterpart to the Juno line)
Pros
- Multiple pockets
- Tailored to female anatomy
- Extended length shoulder straps and hip belts
Cons
- Magnet for mouthpiece and sternum doesn’t stay in place
The numbers tell the story, as this pack fits 14 to 19 inches for torso length and 41 to 60 inches for hips, which is comparable to 2X to 6X in plus size apparel. Our tester was on the cusp of plus size according to most charts with her 43-inch hips and 5-foot-10 frame. She appreciated that there was ample room to expand while allowing the transfer of weight to her hips. Moreover, the shoulder straps were long, so she could really pull the pack inward and upward for a snug fit.
One of the key features of the 3-liter bladder is that it is a 3D design that stays open to completely dry out like a bottle, and even has an integrated handle to hang the bladder upside down. When filled, it clips into the pack with one hand and curves to your back, which minimizes the water splashing around.
With that being said, my testers had a gripe with the mouthpiece. There is a magnet on the bite valve and on the sternum buckle, which should connect. No matter how she positioned the tube, the magnets didn’t seem strong enough to stay connected while moving.
Overall, between the fit and the abundance of pockets, our tester loved the pack. “It’s like I had been driving a 20-year old Kia my whole life and someone gave me the keys to a Jaguar.”
Best for Biking: HydroFlask 14L Down Shift Hydration Pack
Key Features
- Weight: 2 pounds, 3 ounces
- Gear Capacity: 14 liters
- Reservoir Capacity: 2 liters
- Pockets: One outside zippered top pocket and one internal zippered mesh pocket
Pros
- Bronze color good for hunting season
- Keeps water ice cold
- Chest strap has whistle
Cons
- Internal bladder hard to open first time
- Expensive for size
- Small pockets
- Small volume for gear
This is an updated pack, but I’ve used HydroFlask’s insulated IsoBound reservoir in the past. On one trip, I camped overnight in Florida’s Dry Tortugas National Park where there was no shade and daytime temps stayed in the high 80s. Even after 24 hours, my water was still cold, and that’s when I was convinced this was unique.
The 2-liter reservoir has its own Velcroed insulated area that sits low in the backpack, thus shifting the water weight down low, which worked well on my bike rides. For such a slim design, I was impressed by how robust the internal compartment felt; I could fit my rain layers, a puffy, and my first aid kit.
The pack itself is water resistant and made of abrasion-resistant materials, another bonus. But these things add up to dollar signs, and my one complaint is that it is an expensive pack for its size.
Best for Running: Nathan Crossover 15L Hydration Pack
Key Features
- Weight: 16.1 ounces (with bladder), 11.5 ounces (without bladder)
- Gear Capacity: 15 liters
- Reservoir Capacity: 1.5 liters
- Pockets: Two zippered pockets on front straps, four narrow pockets inside, and two angled side sleeves
- Unisex
Pros
- Made with moisture-wicking materials
- Bladder stays put
- Angled side pockets
Cons
- Complicated bladder closure
- Complicated mouthpiece
- Comes only in dark colors
This pack scored big points for being lightweight and extremely comfortable, as it molded itself to our tester’s back. The bladder sits in its own compartment, and the pack is pear-shaped, helping minimize any sloshfest of the water. The tester also applauded the moisture-wicking stretchy fabric, which was intentionally designed to stave off sweat and chafing.
Other nice touches were the reflective markings that made it more visible, though the pack is only available in dark colors. The two side pockets are angled, making it easy to grab our gear out of them, and even had some Velcro to secure the items. And there was an exterior bungee cinch cord that could stash a jacket or a helmet.
However, our tester deemed Nathan’s bladder closure over-engineered and not intuitive. It is a mix of folding and slide closures, presenting a struggle.
Best for Cold Water: Brumate Paragon
Brumate
Key Features
- Weight: 3 pounds, 5 ounces
- Gear Capacity: 7.5 liters
- Reservoir Capacity: 1.18 liters
- Pockets: One small water-resistant zippered pocket, two full-length zippered pockets, one slip front pocket
- Unisex
Pros
- Insulated reservoir keeps water cold
- Dishwasher safe reservoir
- Stylish pack
Cons
- Reservoir weighs 1.83 pounds empty
- Rigid
If you like the convenience of having a hydration hose at your chest but hate lukewarm water, this hydration pack with an insulated reservoir from Brumate is the answer. The Paragon is a sleek backpack with room for day hike essentials like an extra layer, snacks, and sunscreen. It is long at 19 inches, but removable waist straps can keep the end snug to your back.
There is significant padding on the back, but the stainless steel reservoir is still noticeable, though not uncomfortable. I wore this pack on day hikes in Zion National Park and my water stayed cold and fresh all day. The water remaining in the hose after you take a sip falls back into the reservoir so it won’t get hot or freeze. But you can install an included one-way valve to keep water in your hose.
You are supposed to wait a moment after sipping before closing the valve. Otherwise, water can get stuck and spout out once you open it again. I wish the zipper to the reservoir’s pocket opened a little wider because it is difficult to pull the reservoir out. Because there is a stainless steel straw descending from the reservoir’s lid, you first detach the hose from the reservoir. Then you can take out the bottle and open the lid without the straw preventing you from removing the reservoir.
The reservoir is really just a large insulated water bottle, and I wish you could replace the lid or hose connector with a water bottle lid that you can drink out of. That would make this product a game changer. You could plug your every-day water bottle into a hose for hikes and disconnect it when you just want the bottle. Hopefully Brumate recognizes the opportunity for convenience and sustainability here and develops an alternate lid you can drink from.
The Paragon is ideal for hot, short adventures where you want a chilled drink and don’t mind carrying the extra weight. This hydration backpack is also stylish enough to wear around the front country running errands, strolling around a park, or taking your dog on a walk. —Ashley Thess
Things to Consider Before Buying the Best Hydration Pack
Bladder
I’ve been using hands-free hydration via a reservoir since I started hiking in 2001, so I can say with certainty that not all bladders are created equal. Some bladder closures require rolling, sliding, spinning a cap into its grooves perfectly, and/or suction. Some mouthpieces require biting, twisting, pulling, sucking, and turning. This test included a wide gamut of those combinations, and it really came down to personal preference. I personally favor a tube that clips in place and the self-sealing bite valves where I don’t have to fumble with anything and can drink on the go, especially when I’m guiding clients on hikes.
Read Next: The Best Hydration Bladders of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Gear Capacity
Another thing to consider with carrying your water in a reservoir is the gear capacity. Do you want a higher capacity pack that can fit a puffer jacket, rain shell, and extra layers? Or are you trying to carry minimum supplies other than hydration? I also covet multiple pockets for organization, another personal decision in how to pack for your adventure.
Fit
Fit and comfort of the backpack are, of course, important. Most packs only have chest and waist adjustment straps, but there are a few hydration packs in this test that have multiple adjustable points, which helps when tailoring to different body types.
FAQs
A reservoir is a whole other product outside of the backpack, and there are many things to consider when buying a backpack that comes with a hydration bladder. The number of liters for water is the first aspect, followed by how easy the reservoir is to fill, attach, and use. If a backpack is hydration-compatible, it will likely have a dedicated port for the tube, and maybe even a connection point on the shoulder or chest strap.
Having a separated reservoir compartment and some sort of clip to hold the bladder in place really helps the sloshing around of water and the reservoir. Some backpacks concentrate the water weight down lower in the pack, which also helps to balance the load.
I’ve had many bladders form mildew and/or a funky taste over the years because I can’t quite get them emptied and cleaned in between uses. It was only recently that I discovered the hack of freezing my reservoir to prevent bacteria growth. Once the bladder dries out, I put my bladders in my freezer to store, and that helps maintain the life of the product.
Final Thoughts
As a dedicated water drinker, I only buy hydration backpacks. I could never return to the whole “stop and drink” habit while hiking, biking, or running. If you are like me, and want to drink on the go, a hydration backpack is the way to go.
- Best Overall: CamelBak Octane 16 Hydration Hiking Pack
- Best Budget: REI Co-Op Link 10L
- Best for Hiking: Osprey Mira 22/Manta 24
- Best Plus Size Women’s: Gregory Juno 30 H20 Plus Size
- Best for Biking: HydroFlask 14L Down Shift Hydration Pack
- Best for Running: Nathan Crossover 15L Hydration Pack
- Best for Cold Water: Brumate Paragon
