Best overall: Osprey Raptor 10 Bike Hydration Bike BackpackBest for hikers: CamelBak Fourteener 26 Hydration PackBest for bikers/cyclists: Thule Vital Hydration PackBest for runners: TETON Sports Trailrunner 2.0 Hydration PackBest on a budget: Water Buffalo Hydration Pack
Feel confident when picking the best hydration pack
There are plenty of designs available for different sports, so you can choose the best hydration pack depending on the type of activity in which you’re participating. Packs come in two main designs. The first is the waist pack, which belts around the waist and has slots for one or more water bottles. The other is the hydration backpack, which straps to your back and contains a reservoir, or water bladder. The bladder is connected to a long straw, so you can sip from the pack without taking it off your back. Hydration backpacks come in different styles tailored to running, hiking, or biking/cycling. Hydration backpacks typically hold more than waist packs. A standard water bottle holds roughly 0.5 liters of water, so that’s about the capacity you can expect from a waist pack. Backpacks come in different capacities, ranging from 0.5 liters to 3 liters of water. Stocking up on as much water as possible might seem like a great idea for a long bike ride on a sweltering day, but don’t forget all that water comes with extra weight—one liter of water weighs over 2 pounds. Water weight is just one of the considerations when searching for the best hydration pack.
How to select the right hydration bag
1. Which activity will you be using the hydration bag for?
The first thing to consider when shopping for a hydration bag is that most of them are tailored to a specific activity. Hiking hydration backpacks are usually bulkier and provide more space for storage. Biking/cycling hydration packs tend to offer features for hands-free drinking. Running hydration packs are thinner and lightweight and often come as a vest. While many hydration bags are adequate for cross-training, they tend to lean toward one sport or another, so bear that in mind.
2. How much water do you want to carry in your hydration bladder?
Water weight is an important consideration when choosing the best hydration pack for you. A seasoned hiker going for a day-long climb might do best with a larger, 3-liter hydration bladder. A marathon runner, on the other hand, might prefer a less cumbersome waist pack that holds a single bottle the runner can sip from between water stations (where they can also refill).
3. What other features do you want in an outdoor backpack?
Before making a purchase, consider what extra features the outdoor backpack has to offer. Some hydration backpacks come with similar features to daypacks, with extra pockets and loops for storage. This is optimal for carrying snacks on long treks when you’ll need to fuel up along the way. Other features of the outdoor gear may include shut-off bite valves to prevent leaks, disconnecting tubes to simplify refills, and multiple portals for easy straw placement.
4. How comfortable is the day pack for you to carry?
Finally, make sure you feel comfortable carrying the day pack. If possible, try it on to make sure the hydration backpack fits properly on your body. Give it a test run while you’re biking, running, or hiking—something that’s comfortable while you’re standing still doesn’t always feel so great when it’s jostling around during a run. Check that the backpack comes with a hip belt (most do) to relieve pressure on your shoulders.
The best hydration pack
Best overall: Osprey Raptor 10 Bike Hydration Bike Backpack
Designed as a bike pack, the Osprey Raptor 10 Bike Hydration Backpack includes a 2.5-liter hydration bag and can also be used as a day hiking backpack. Even weight distribution, hip belts, the LidLock helmet attachment, and a sleek look make the Osprey Raptor our top pick for best hydration pack.
Best for hikers: CamelBak Fourteener 26 Hydration Pack
The CamelBak Fourteener 26 Hydration Pack is designed for long hikes on hot days. Its reservoir holds 3 liters of water and it’s designed with dual wing belts and an inner cargo belt to take the weight off your shoulders. More than a hydration backpack, the Fourteener also boasts 6 liters of cargo capacity for snacks and hiking gear.
Best for bikers/cyclists: Thule Vital Hydration Pack
The hands-free design of the Thule Vital 6 Hydration Pack is perfect for bikers and cyclists who need to hydrate mid-ride. Thule’s Retrakt magnetic hose system automatically returns the drinking hose to its place after each sip, so riders always know where to find it. Bikers and cyclists can carry up to 2.5 liters of water and 6 liters of additional storage for a pump and repair kit.
Best for runners: TETON Sports Trailrunner 2.0 Hydration Pack
Runners love the lightweight TETON Sports Trailrunner 2.0 Hydration Pack because of its secure fit. Straps and shoulder pads adjust to fit your body, preventing uncomfortable jostling during your run. The Trailrunner also comes with a free 2-liter bladder and its intake hole is wide enough for ice cubes—perfect for keeping cool on a summer run.
Best on a budget: Water Buffalo Hydration Pack
The Water Buffalo Hydration Pack holds up to 2 liters of water and has several pockets for storing other essential items, so it can be used for a run, a bike ride, or even as a small hiking backpack. Its Oasis Hydration bladder is designed to keep water fresh and clean while also preventing pesky leaks. With fully adjustable straps, splashproof nylon, and ultralight material, the Water Buffalo will keep you hydrated even if you’re on a tight budget.
Some final thoughts on choosing the best hydration pack
One of the best ways to keep your body going during strenuous activity is to keep it hydrated! Athletes who don’t pay attention to their water intake may begin to experience symptoms of dehydration, which include feeling fatigued, dizzy, and light-headed. Making hydration part of your fitness routine will help you run faster, bike farther, or enjoy a longer hike on a sunny day. There’s no excuse for being thirsty when you’ve got the best hydration pack, tailored for a specific sport, as part of your outdoor gear. Choose one that’s right for you and get out there on the trails, and don’t forget to drink up!
