When hiking, staying hydrated is one of the most important factors in maintaining energy, stamina, and focus. A hydration backpack provides a convenient solution to carry water comfortably while keeping your hands free. Whether you are embarking on a short trail or a multi-day adventure, a hydration backpack is essential for ensuring you have quick and easy access to water. In this article, we will explore the 7 best hydration backpacks for hiking, considering factors like capacity, comfort, durability, and design.
1. CamelBak M.U.L.E. Hydration Pack
The CamelBak M.U.L.E. is one of the most popular hydration backpacks among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its durability and versatile design, this pack offers a 3-liter hydration reservoir, providing plenty of water for long hikes. The M.U.L.E. is also equipped with multiple compartments, giving you room to store essentials like snacks, a first aid kit, and extra layers.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 3 liters
Storage Capacity: 9 liters
Weight: 1.4 lbs (640 g)
Comfort: The pack features an Air Director™ back panel and ventilated harness that allows for airflow and comfort during long hikes.
Durability: Made from rugged materials, it is built to withstand rough outdoor conditions.
Pros:
Plenty of storage space for extra gear
Comfortable for long hikes
Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
Slightly heavier than other options
Higher price point
The CamelBak M.U.L.E. is ideal for hikers who need both hydration and storage capacity for extended adventures.
2. Osprey Skarab 30 Hydration Pack
Osprey is another well-respected name in the outdoor gear industry, and their Skarab 30 Hydration Pack is no exception. This pack offers a 2.5-liter reservoir and 30 liters of gear storage, making it perfect for day hikes or even short overnight trips. The large capacity ensures that you can carry water and all the essentials, including food, extra clothes, and emergency gear.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 2.5 liters
Storage Capacity: 30 liters
Weight: 2.2 lbs (998 g)
Comfort: The Skarab 30 has an AirScape™ back panel for ventilation and a harness that balances weight efficiently across your back.
Durability: Made with high-quality materials, this pack is built to last.
Pros:
Large gear capacity
Comfortable and well-ventilated
Strong, durable build
Cons:
Heavier than many hydration packs
May be too large for minimalist hikers
The Osprey Skarab 30 is perfect for hikers who prefer to carry additional gear while ensuring they stay hydrated.
3. Gregory Citro 24 H2O Hydration Pack
The Gregory Citro 24 H2O is a well-balanced hydration backpack that offers enough capacity for day hikes while keeping the weight manageable. Its 3-liter hydration bladder ensures you have plenty of water, while the 24-liter gear capacity provides space for extra gear.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 3 liters
Storage Capacity: 24 liters
Weight: 2 lbs (907 g)
Comfort: The Citro 24 H2O features Gregory’s 3D Hydro Reservoir, along with an adjustable torso length and ventilated back panel for comfort.
Durability: Built with high-quality nylon and polyester materials, this pack is made to withstand tough hikes.
Pros:
Adjustable fit for maximum comfort
3-liter hydration bladder for long hikes
Enough gear space for day hikes
Cons:
Slightly heavier compared to other hydration packs
Not ideal for ultralight hikers
The Gregory Citro 24 H2O is an excellent choice for those looking for a comfortable pack with enough storage for day hikes and long walks.
4. TETON Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Pack
The TETON Sports Oasis 1100 is a budget-friendly hydration backpack that offers excellent value without compromising on quality. With a 2-liter hydration bladder and an 18-liter storage capacity, it is ideal for day hikes or even cycling adventures. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the built-in rain cover ensures that your gear stays dry during unexpected weather.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 2 liters
Storage Capacity: 18 liters
Weight: 2 lbs (907 g)
Comfort: The pack features adjustable straps and a padded back panel, offering a comfortable fit.
Durability: Made with durable materials and reinforced stitching, the Oasis 1100 is built to last.
Pros:
Affordable price
Lightweight and compact
Built-in rain cover
Cons:
Smaller hydration reservoir
Limited gear capacity
For hikers on a budget, the TETON Sports Oasis 1100 provides an excellent combination of hydration and gear storage.
5. Deuter Speed Lite 12 Hydration Pack
If you prefer ultralight hiking, the Deuter Speed Lite 12 is an excellent choice. This minimalist hydration backpack offers just enough space for essentials, along with a 2-liter reservoir for hydration. With its lightweight design, it is perfect for day hikes where speed and mobility are key.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 2 liters
Storage Capacity: 12 liters
Weight: 13 oz (368 g)
Comfort: Features a Lite Air back system that allows for ventilation and keeps you cool on hot days.
Durability: Made from durable ripstop nylon, the Speed Lite 12 can handle light trails and everyday hikes.
Pros:
Ultralight design
Minimalist, sleek profile
Comfortable for fast-paced hikes
Cons:
Limited storage space
Smaller reservoir than other packs
The Deuter Speed Lite 12 is perfect for fast and light day hikers who want to focus on speed and hydration.
6. Platypus Duthie A.M. 15.0 Hydration Pack
The Platypus Duthie A.M. 15.0 is designed with mountain bikers in mind, but it’s also an excellent hydration pack for hikers. It features a 3-liter Big Zip™ hydration reservoir and 12 liters of gear storage space, making it ideal for longer hikes where you need more water and essentials. Its low-profile design keeps the pack balanced and comfortable, even on rough terrain.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 3 liters
Storage Capacity: 12 liters
Weight: 1.8 lbs (816 g)
Comfort: The pack features a ventilated back panel and padded straps for comfort during long hikes.
Durability: Built with rugged materials to handle challenging conditions, this pack is both sturdy and reliable.
Pros:
Comfortable for long hikes
Large hydration reservoir
Stable and well-balanced design
Cons:
Slightly heavier than minimalist options
Gear capacity may be too small for some users
The Platypus Duthie A.M. 15.0 is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and stable hydration pack for long hikes or technical terrain.
7. Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set Hydration Pack
The Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set is a performance-focused hydration pack designed for trail runners and fast hikers. It offers a 1.5-liter hydration bladder and an additional 12 liters of storage space, perfect for those who need to carry essentials without being weighed down. Its ergonomic design fits snugly and stays in place even during fast movements.
Features:
Reservoir Capacity: 1.5 liters
Storage Capacity: 12 liters
Weight: 11.3 oz (320 g)
Comfort: The pack features a Sensifit™ system that ensures a snug and secure fit, even when moving quickly.
Durability: Built from lightweight but durable materials, the ADV Skin 12 Set is ideal for rugged conditions.
Pros:
Lightweight and compact
Ergonomic, snug fit
Ideal for fast hikers and trail runners
Cons:
Smaller hydration reservoir
Limited storage space for gear
The Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set is a great choice for fast-paced hikers and trail runners who need a lightweight and performance-driven hydration pack.
See Also: How to Properly Clean a Tent: A Comprehensive Guide
How to Choose the Best Hydration Backpack for Hiking
Selecting the right hydration backpack depends on various factors, including your hiking style, the length of your hikes, and personal preferences. Here are some key considerations:
Reservoir Capacity: The reservoir size is one of the most critical features. For shorter hikes, a 1.5 or 2-liter bladder might be sufficient, while for longer hikes, a 3-liter reservoir is more appropriate.
Gear Storage: Depending on the length of your hike, you may need more or less storage space. Day hikes typically require less space, while multi-day trips need backpacks with larger capacities for carrying food, clothing, and gear.
Weight: Lightweight packs are essential for hikers looking to move fast and minimize strain. However, for longer treks where you need more gear, a slightly heavier but more spacious pack may be necessary.
Comfort: Look for packs with adjustable straps, padded back panels, and ventilated designs to ensure comfort during long hikes. Proper weight distribution is also essential for avoiding back and shoulder strain.
Durability: Ensure that the pack is made from durable materials that can withstand rugged conditions. Features like water-resistant fabric and reinforced stitching can add to the longevity of the pack.
Design Features: Consider extra features such as built-in rain covers, pockets for small items, and easy-access hydration ports. These features can enhance the overall functionality of your pack.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hydration backpack for hiking can make a significant difference in your outdoor experience. From the versatile CamelBak M.U.L.E. to the minimalist Deuter Speed Lite 12, each of the options listed above has unique strengths tailored to different types of hikers. Whether you prioritize weight, storage capacity, or comfort, there is a hydration backpack to suit your needs.
By staying hydrated and comfortable, you can focus on enjoying the trail and the beauty of nature. Now it’s time to pick the perfect hydration backpack and hit the trails!