A hydration pack is a plastic water container with soft sides. They are squishy and flexible because of the role they play. Because of the elastic material they are made from, they can easily fit into backpacks and take little or no space compared to water bottles.
Backpackers and day hikers were plagued with a massive problem before the hiking water backpack was invented. They had limited space and needed to pack a high volume of water with efficiency and without losing comfort.
With hydration packs, hikers, bikers, runners and backpackers can drink handsfree from a long tube as they go on with their activities. Since we love hydration packs, we thought to share some of our top picks with you to help out in your selection and buying process.
Contents
- Product Comparison – Top 10 Best Water Bladder For Backpackers Reviews
- Point of Interest
- Aquatic Way Hydration Bladder Water Reservoir 2 Liter Non-Toxic Easy Clean Large Opening
- Hydration Bladder 2 Liter Leak Proof Water Reservoir, Military Water Storage Bladder Bag
- WACOOL 3Liter Free EVA Hydration Pack Bladder, Leak-Proof Water Reservoir
- Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir for Hydration Backpacks
- CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir – AW19
- Baen Sendi 2 Pack Hydration Bladder 2 Liter BPA Free Hydration Pack Replacement
- Platypus Hoser Hands-Free Hydration System Water Reservoir
- Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir
- FREEMOVE Hydration Bladder & Cooler Bag Keeps Drink Cool & Protects Bladder
- SportsTrail Hydration Bladder 2 Liter Camel Pack Water Reservoir for Hiking Walking Cycling
- BUYING GUIDE
- Final Verdict
Product Comparison – Top 10 Best Water Bladder For Backpackers Reviews
Point of Interest
Why do runners, hikers, and backpackers have to own hydration bladders? If you’re still asking this question, make sure to go through the highlighted benefits of hydration packs outlined below:
- Easy hydration: it has never been simpler to remain hydrated on the move as it is while sipping from the tube of a water bladder. No need to stop and search for your water before moving again, you can just keep walking and drink at the same time.
- Comfortable: you no longer have the hard side of water bottles poking you through your bag. Because water bladders are made from soft plastic, you can hardly feel them. The weight of the water is evenly spread and balanced as you move.
- Space-saving: hikers can utilize lighter and smaller backpacks for their trips when using hydration bladders because hydration bladders don’t require a designated space for accommodation, they fit in with everything else. As the user drinks water, the water bladder shrinks and creates even more space.
- Lightweight: water bladders are designed to be very light with many large sizes weighing under 6 pounds. This is a huge relief from water bottles that weigh more but carry less content.
Generally, it is comfortable to carry large amounts of water with a hydration bladder because the drinking tube makes sipping and staying hydrated very simple. If you are taking short runs, long hikes, or going backpacking for days, you definitely need a hydration bladder in your gear.
Aquatic Way Hydration Bladder Water Reservoir 2 Liter Non-Toxic Easy Clean Large Opening
Whether you’re on a skiing trip, taking a bicycle ride, or enjoying a family hike, this hydration bladder is an absolute must-have. Made from FDA approved BPA free materials, the thick stuff is wear-resistant and pressure resistant. The material is also antibacterial for outdoor use without worries.
You will enjoy wholesome drinking while on the move as the silicone bite tube is sturdy and antimicrobial for protection. When you’re done drinking, the shutoff valve is tight to stop leakage, so you don’t lose water or get wet on your trip. The large opening and detachable tubes make cleaning a breeze.
- An extra-long drinking tube.
- Made with quality TPU material that is BPA free.
- Large opening for easy cleaning and filling.
- Flexible mouthpiece.
- Easily disconnect tube.
- Has a convenient wide opening.
- Bite tube is well fitted for use.
- Made from sturdy material.
- Does not leak.
- Has a strong plastic taste.
- The hose is difficult to manipulate.
Final Thought
Apart from the nasty chemical taste that lingers for the first few washes, this is a pretty good choice for backpackers and outdoor lovers. You can carry your water inconspicuously in a durable hydration pack that won’t leak and is so flexible to use in different situations. Make sure to attach the detachable hose properly, or the water might leak out and ruin your clothes.
Hydration Bladder 2 Liter Leak Proof Water Reservoir, Military Water Storage Bladder Bag
If you’re running, biking, hiking or cycling, this 2L hydration pack will provide the water you need in controlled temperatures. The temperature-controlled tube and pack will protect your water from a sudden change in cold and hot weather. The hydration pack also offers high durability as it is made with double-sealed technology.
This is a smaller sized running water backpack for people on the move but is so durable and robust. You don’t have to worry about leaking issues except you tamper with the bite valve, and it splits. Luckily, there are reliable replacements for this and does not mean you have to throw the whole thing out.
- 2L capacity.
- Temperature resistant hose.
- Wide mouth.
- Double soldering manufacture method for durability.
- Portable design.
- Easy to clean, easy to fill.
- Sturdy water bladder.
- Bite valve can split and cause leakage.
- Has a strong chemical odor.
Final Thought
This hydration pack is portable, ergonomic, and very sturdy. Leakage is not an issue with this one, but you might have to refill more often if you need more than 2L of water per use. We also like the dust cover and high flow bite valve features.
WACOOL 3Liter Free EVA Hydration Pack Bladder, Leak-Proof Water Reservoir
The Wacool 3L hydration pack is wear-proof, pressure tolerant because of the extra lining and double soldering technology used in manufacturing. It comes with a dust cover and auto-lock technology to stop leakage.
Ensure to screw the cap tightly to prevent leakage. It is BPA free to ensure there is no chemical taste during use and has anti-mold technology to make sure no slimy mold start growing in your space.
- Sliding mouthpiece.
- Glasslike interior.
- Wide opening.
- BPA free.
- Pull and bite mouthpiece is convenient.
- Good looking exterior.
- The sturdy rubber material is lightweight.
- Smooth and easy to clean interior.
- Strong chemical taste.
- Mouthpiece might leak.
Final Thought
The design of the mouthpiece is pretty convenient to use, but it is so fragile that it can get faulty and start to leak quickly. This hydration bladder is easy to fill, and that’s a huge convenience. It doesn’t leak as the material is very sturdy.
Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir for Hydration Backpacks
It is taste proof, it is leak-free, and it comes with slide-lock technology that makes shutting off the valve but automatic and very secure. The last thing you want ruining your backpacking trip is water leakage, and you can be sure this won’t be your fate with the Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir.
We can’t lie, this hydration backpack has no attractive features, it’s just bright and bland, but it really is secure. Take care not to bother the seams that could unravel quickly and clean the hose properly to ensure proper water flow during use. Generally, this hydration pack has cool features that will work well on a hiking trip or a bicycle ride.
- Slidelock closure.
- Wide mouth opening.
- Silver-ion protection from bacteria.
- Quick-release hose with shut off valve.
- Wide opening for filling and cleaning.
- Bite valve has shut off valve to stop leakage.
- Clear durable plastic material.
- Flexible rubber hose.
- Easy to clean.
- Water might not flow well.
- Might leak at the seams.
Final Thought
Really love the combination of slide lock technology, quick release hose and shut off valve on this hydration backpack. It makes use so quick and easy, also ensuring there will be no leakage during use. It may not be tactical, it may not be beautiful, but this is an excellent hiking water backpack you will find in the market.
CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir – AW19
Need a hydration pack that will fit into any bag without problems? The CamelBak Crux 2L Reservoir is the perfect option with its ergonomic shape. The durable material its made from is guaranteed not to leak in your bag and cause problems.
This is the water hydration pack you want in your corner if you are a persistent user. You will get so many uses out of this and notice little or no wear over time. The screw off and screw-on cap is a bit flimsy and can cause leakage if not screwed tightly after use. The lid is a bit wobbly but will prevent leakage if adequately tightened.
- Ergonomic shape.
- Bite valve allows more water to flow per sip.
- Very durable.
- Strong material.
- No leaks.
- Dispenses a right amount of water per sip.
- Very durable and serves well under heavy use.
- Horrible plastic taste.
- Flimsy cap.
Final Thought
Stay hydrated without the hassle as you enjoy this 3L super durable hydration pack with ergonomic design. The bag is even able to stretch and expand, making it the go-to option for serial hydration pack users on the go.
Baen Sendi 2 Pack Hydration Bladder 2 Liter BPA Free Hydration Pack Replacement
What’s better than one water bladder bag? Two water bladder bags! That’s what you get when you purchase the Baen Sendi 2 Pack Hydration Bladder. Both water bladders are 2L, and BPA free so you don’t have to deal with that foul chemical taste. This is one of the most affordable
This water bladder looks beautiful and is easy to fill. Be careful that the O rings don’t fall off or you will have a leakage problem from the start of use. There is no chemical or plastic odor with this pack, and the quality is quite good for the price.
- Quick-release tube.
- Shut off valve for release tube.
- Perfect soft mouthpiece with on and off valve.
- Premium quality BPA free material.
- Large opening.
- Well-constructed.
- Non-BPA, no odor.
- Great for walks, hiking, running, and skiing.
- Awkward tube positioning.
- Weak water pressure.
- Can leak easily.
Final Thought
This water bladder is very well made to take a lot of abuse but don’t be surprised if the quality seal breaks too early. The awkward tube positioning makes building enough pressure for drinking harder. Otherwise, you get what you paid for since this is a two in one set and very affordable.
Platypus Hoser Hands-Free Hydration System Water Reservoir
It doesn’t matter if you are day hiking or backpacking, you need adequate hydration on the go, and this Platypus Hands-Free Water Reservoir is ideal. The high flow rate is excellent, and the water hydration pack is taste-free. Silver-ion coating protects the interior from bacteria and mold to ensure you are not exposed to the disease.
Platypus provides options from 1L to 3L, and it never hurts to have options to fit different needs. The carry or hand loop is very helpful for securing your hydration pack to your backpack or arm. You can get hydrated on the move without using your hands because of the automatic self-sealing bite valve technology.
- Ultralightweight.
- Easy carry or hand loop.
- BPS free.
- BPA free.
- Bite valve with simple sealing.
- Handsfree hydration pack.
- No chemical taste.
- Very easy to carry around because it is lightweight.
- Susceptible to seam burst.
- Faulty valves.
Final Thought
We love the array of options in size. The ultra lightweight feature is also a huge plus, and the Platypus brand never disappoints with durability. However, be careful with the seams, so they don’t unravel and cause water leakage.
Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir
The aim here was to make operation more straightforward, make the water bladder lighter, and improve handling. We have to say Osprey got all three goals right. The wide mouth top opening and pour shield makes filling up and cleaning this water bladder very easy. The slider and leakproof seal work together to prevent leakage.
If you are prepared to deal with a horrible chemical aftertaste for the first few washes, you will get to enjoy all the wonders this water bladder has to offer later. Be sure to keep it right side up always, or it might leak.
- Available in 2 and 3L sizes.
- Made from durable TPU material.
- Wide mouth top opening.
- Unique pour shield.
- Fits shorter backpacks nicely.
- Magnet securing the hose is useful.
- Easy to use.
- Bad chemical after taste.
- The hose might rip and cause dripping.
- Will leak if the pack is not upright.
Final Thought
If a one-handed operation running water backpack is a must-have for you, go for this water bladder. The beautiful ergonomic design reduces weight by up to 30% too making it a great choice for runners and hikers who don’t need extra weight.
FREEMOVE Hydration Bladder & Cooler Bag Keeps Drink Cool & Protects Bladder
This water bladder is a lifesaver! It fits in any backpack and has an insulation pack to keep water cool. The mouthpiece has a cover, so your hose doesn’t get dirty while you’re taking off your backpack.
2 litters is not so much, but this hydration pack is super durable and easy to use. The insulation pack doesn’t work very well, but it serves as an extra barrier to increasing durability of the backpack and delivers no leaking.
- 100% leakproof lid.
- The mouthpiece comes with a cap.
- Transparent design.
- Mouthpiece cap keeps your drinking hose cleaner.
- You can see right through the bladder because it is transparent.
- Easy to fill and clean.
- Does not insulate.
- Terrible flavor.
Final Thought
The chemical aftertaste might be a problem, but you can wash that away over time. It would be nice if some of the straps, as the waist straps, were removable.
SportsTrail Hydration Bladder 2 Liter Camel Pack Water Reservoir for Hiking Walking Cycling
This water bladder bag is a great solution for staying hydrated while on the move. It is made from very strong TPU material which is FDA approved. The drinking tube has a quick release feature and auto-lock to prevent accidental spillage.
Cleaning, drying, and filling up the water bladder is super easy because of the open-top with an attached head puller. It can withstand a lot of pressure and is great for hiking or running because it is lightweight.
- Largemouth opening.
- Made from premium quality TPU material.
- Lightweight.
- Hands-free.
- Very helpful and effective cleaning tools.
- Water flows smoothly through the valve.
- The translucent tube is great for inspecting bladders interior.
- Plastic smell combined with a heavy perfume smell.
- The tube is hard to connect.
- Low design quality.
Final Thought
This water bladder generally has good quality, but the mouthpiece is a little hard to open and close when it is new. The foul smell and plastic taste can also be dealt with by intense treatment before use.
BUYING GUIDE
Shopping for a water bladder is not rocket science; however, you must consider certain qualities so as to pick the right fit for your unique needs. Here are some points to consider before making a purchase.
- Capacity: hydration packs typically come in 1L, 2L or 3L sizes. You have to match your backpack with the right size of water bladder, so make sure you don’t buy a large size that cant fit into your backpack. If you go on shorter runs, treks or hikes, you don’t even need a substantial sized bladder. However, keep in mind that larger bladders are more flexible and obviously hold more water for more prolonged activities.
- Quality: picking a hydration pack based on looks might seem like a good idea until you test it for the first time and the seams don’t hold up because the material is not durable or the soldering technique used wasn’t though enough. The last thing you need on your hiking trip is a leaking bladder to ruin your gadgets in your backpack. If you are a heavy user, make sure to select a bladder with extra durability and long life term.
- Weight: weight is significant to ultra-hikers. Every hydration bladder Walmart you come across will have subtle differences that make a significant difference in weight. It isn’t about the capacity either, a 3L bladder might weigh 5 ounces while a 2L bladder weighs eight ounces. If you need an ultralight water bladder, make sure to go through all the features to ensure you have the right fit.
- Features: different hydration packs come with attractive features that might suit your needs. From wide mouth opening, to bite valve on/off switches, clips, and insulation packs, you can get cool attributes with your water bladder for more comfortable use and care.
Final Verdict
A water bladder is basically designed to transport water or other liquids, and make drinking efficient and convenient. A lot of designs are made, so you don’t have to slow down or halt before taking a sip. When shopping for hydration packs, ensure you use our helpful buying tips. You can also look through our top 10 picks to help you decide. Make sure whatever water bladder you choose is designed for your intended use.
Now you know the points to consider before choosing a hydration bladder and have insight into some great options out there. The next time you stumble on a hydration bladder Walmart sale, you will know just what to do.
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