Choosing The Right Hydration Pack

Choosing which hydration pack can be tough, as they come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and brands - one of the most well known is : camelback, is it with the extra cost? Some are simple bladders, where as others act more like a back pack with a bladder incorporated.

Of course, the main thing that needs to be decided is what the pack is going to be used for. A motocross rider might want a simple and compact hydration pack, where as a hiker might go for the back pack approach.

#1 Capacity

The best sellers tend to be around 1.5L, but do not let this sway your decision. Packs come in all sorts of sizes but generally between 1-3L. Once you have decided what it will be used for, then you will be able to determine which size you really require.

#2 Bladder Valve

One thing that you will want to look for is a hydration pack that has a bite valve incorporated into it. A lot of people underestimate how important this really is! Having a bite valve will mean that the liquid inside only comes out when the valve is bitten. If the item does not have this valve then you are risking losing all of the liquid inside. Check if the bite valve is removable for easy cleaning.

#3 Extra Space

Hikers in particular will want a pack that offers extra space to carry their essentials. The likes of food, tools, mobile phones and keys are all simple items that need to be carefully stored away. If this is the case then you will need to look at a bag that has extra storage space.

#4 Comfort

You can quickly determine how comfortable a hydration pack is likely to be by the look of the padding and straps. Extra straps tend to take the pressure away from the main points where the bag touches the body. This is not an essential feature for everyone, but people wearing these bags for hours on end would certainly benefit.

Conclusion

Finding the right hydration pack might seem like a hard task, but it is a simple process of elimination. Decide what you will be using it for and the core features that you need to ensure that the bag is right for you. There are plenty of different ones available, so take your time.

Question Time

How big of a hydration pack do you need?

A hydration pack is an essential item for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. It is important to choose the right size hydration pack to ensure that you have enough water for your activity. Generally, a 2-liter hydration pack is enough for a short hike or bike ride. For longer activities, such as a full-day hike, a 3-liter hydration pack is recommended. If you plan on doing multiple activities in one day, such as running and biking, a larger hydration pack may be necessary.

What kind of hydration pack to buy?

Just like snowboard backpacks, hydration packs come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small hydration backpacks that can hold just one liter of water, to larger packs that can hold up to three liters. It is important to choose the size that best fits your needs. Additionally, consider the features of the hydration pack. Many packs come with additional pockets for storage, adjustable straps for comfort, and a bite valve for easy drinking. Finally, make sure the hydration pack is durable enough to withstand the demands of your activity.

Are hydration packs worth it?

Hydration packs are a great way to stay hydrated while on the go. They are designed to be lightweight, comfortable, and convenient. Hydration packs typically consist of a bladder or reservoir that holds water, a drinking tube, and a carrying system. The drinking tube allows you to drink without having to stop and remove the pack. The carrying system can be worn as a backpack or a waist pack, depending on your preference. Hydration packs are a great way to stay hydrated during outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, or running. They are also great for everyday use, such as commuting to work or school.

Do hydration packs slow you down?

Some people worry that the added weight of a hydration pack will slow them down. While it is true that carrying any extra weight will add a bit of extra effort, the amount of weight from a hydration pack is usually minimal and will not cause a significant decrease in speed or performance. In fact, staying well-hydrated can actually help improve performance as it helps to regulate body temperature and can even help to reduce fatigue.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Olivia Poglianich          

Content Strategist

Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the ski and snowboard space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.