Best Hydration Packs for Hiking, Running, Skiing and Biking in 2020

If you like to be prepared on your adventures, but don’t need the carrying capacity of a day pack, grab yourself a hydration pack instead. These compact backpacks are specifically designed to carry a water bladder plus some essential items. The best hydration pack gives you instant access to water – no more faffing about with water bottles – and spreads the weight evenly across your back.

Of course, there are different types of hydration packs on the market. Most are lightweight, have a breathable harness system, and extra space for gear and food. One hydration pack should work well for most outdoor activities but certain designs are better suited to certain sports.

To help you choose the right pack for your adventuring need, we’ve put together this handy guide to the best hydration packs for hiking, running, skiing and biking.

FAQs with choosing the best hydration pack
Best hydration pack for hiking
Best hydration pack for running
Best hydration pack for mountain biking
Best hydration pack for skiing and snowboarding
What to look for in the best hydration packs

Summary of the best hydration packs in 2020

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Product	Water capacity (litres)	Total capacity (litres)	Best for	Cost
Hydro Flask Journey Series 10 Hydration Pack	3	10	Hiking	$$$
Gregory Nano H2O 18L Hydration Pack	3	18	Hiking	$
CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack	1.5	2	Running	$
Geigerrig RIG 500 Hydration Pack	2	10	Trail running	$
Osprey Duro 15 Hydration Pack	2.5	15	Distance trail running	$$$
Osprey Katari 3 Hydration Pack	2.5	3	Mountain biking	$
	2	14	Mountain biking	$$$
Platypus Tokul XC Minimalist Hydration Backpack	3	5	Mountain Biking	$$
Osprey Kamber 16 Snow Pack	3	16	Skiing and snowboarding	$$

FAQs with choosing the best hydration pack

How do you use a hydration pack?

The main use of a hydration pack is to comfortably carry your water supply and essential kit on your back. Although you can use larger hydration packs to carry more gear, their compact size makes them better suited to short by high impact activities such as running, biking, and skiing, or day hikes.

How do you fill a hydration pack?

Start by removing the bladder from the pack and filling it with water. Remember to pull the sides of the bladder apart so that it’s easier to fill. Unless the pack has an external bladder sleeve, like the Osprey Katari 3, you’ll find it easier to slip the bladder into its internal sleeve when the pack is empty. Next, thread the tube through the hole at the top of the pack. If the pack has fixtures on the outside, like a thermal sleeve, a strap on the harness, or sternum clip then use these to secure the tube and bite valve. Once the bladder and tube are in place you can fill the pack with the rest of your gear.

What size hydration bladder should I get?

Hydration packs with 1 litre to 1.5-litre water bladders are designed for short excursions when a lightweight pack is preferable. An hour’s trail running or short mountain biking trail.

On the larger end of the scale, 3+ litre water bladders are heavy when full and bulky. They’re more suited to hikers than runners or mountain bikers. Water bladders with a 2 litre to 2.5-litre capacity are a good balance for distance runners, cyclists, skiers, or adventures in hot climates.

How do you store a hydration bladder?

After use, you should clean the hydration bladder including the bite valve and tube. Allow it to dry fully inside and out before storing it. Mould can form if moisture remains inside. An easy way to prevent bacteria growth is to store the bladder in the freezer between uses.

What does hydration compatible mean?

A hydration compatible backpack is specifically designed for use with a water bladder. It will feature an internal sleeve or external pocket, that holds the bladder against the back panel, and an opening for the tube to thread through.

Can you put ice in a hydration pack?

To keep your water cool you can add ice cubes and chilled water just before setting out. You can also half-fill a water bladder and freeze it. But remember that this will cause condensation in your pack as the ice melts. The Hydro Flask Journey Series 10 has a leakproof bladder sleeve to help prevent issues with frozen packs. But if you’re putting a frozen water bladder into another hydration pack you’ll need to keep your kit separate, or store the bladder in a plastic bag.

Best hydration pack for hiking

Hydro Flask Journey Series 10 Hydration Pack

The Hydro Flask Journey Series 10 is the best hydration pack for hiking in hot weather. It comes with a 3-litre BPA-free insulated bladder that keeps water cool for over 4 hours. This fits inside an insulated internal sleeve that reflects heat away from the bladder. Aside from superb insulation, the bladder is easy to clean and fill. It has a wide top opening and the hose is fitted with a HydraPak bite valve.

The ventilated back panel creates a gap between yourself and the bladder, further preventing heat transfer and sweat build-up. This couples with padded waist and shoulder straps. From the outside the pack is fairly plain, there’s a zippered pocket for keys and phone but no extra bells and whistles.

Pros

Insulated bladder keeps your water cool
Well ventilated
Available in two torso sizes (S/M, M/L)

Cons

Expensive
Heavy for a pack of this size
Limited gear storage

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Backcountry

Gregory Nano H2O 18L Hydration Pack

For day hikes where only lightweight kit is needed, the Gregory Nano H20 is a competitively priced and reliable hydration pack. Its 18-litre capacity is plenty to carry water, snacks, and a mid or top layer. There’s also an external bottle sleeve and attachment point for carrying extra gear. Top and side zippered pockets give you a place to keep small items while an easy-pull drawcord provides quick access to the main compartment.

The pack comes with Gregory’s 3 litre 3D hydration pack. This fits inside the main compartment while the hose threads through straps on the shoulder and secures to the sternum strap.

Pros

Comfortable back panel
Decent internal capacity and external attachments
Reasonable price

Cons

Waist strap would not support much weight

Find the latest price on:
REI

Best hydration pack for running

CamelBak Octane Dart Hydration Pack

If all you need is 1.5 litres of water and a minimalist pack to carry it, then the Octane Dart Hydration Pack from CamelBak is the perfect option. The pack is ultra-lightweight and padded with comfortable 3D mesh that helps keep you cool. It’s also fitted with easy-access front-facing pockets. These stretch pockets in the harness allow you to store snacks and refuel on the fly. On the back of the pack is a zippered compartment large enough for essentials only. Plus, the front and back of the pack are fitted with reflective strips for extra safety on early morning or evening road runs.

A key feature of this running hydration pack is its water bladder. The pack comes with a 1.5 litre Crux Reservoir which features a wide opening and built-in handle for easy filling. Its On-Off valve prevents leaks while a self-sealing bite valve lets you sip with ease.

Pros

Ultra-lightweight
Ventilating material
Water bladder included
Dishwasher safe bladder

Cons

Very limited storage space

Find the latest price on:
WildBounds | Amazon

Geigerrig RIG 500 Hydration Pack

The rugged design and multiple attachment points make the Geigerrig one of the best hydration packs for trail running. Its 10-litre capacity also makes it a wise choice for long-distance runners, minimalist hikers and bikers. Multiple internal and external pockets keep your kit organized while compression straps minimise movement. Plus, the pack has a headphone port so you can listen to motivational music on the go!

The Geigerrig RIG 500 has a unique hydration system which allows you to pump air into the bladder. A hand pump connects via a removable tube and attaches to the front harness. This clever system allows you to maintain pressure within the bladder as it empties so the water flows easily to the self-sealing bite valve. The slide opening makes this bladder super easy to clean and refill too.

For more information read our full review of the Geigerrig RIG 500 Hydration Pack.

Pros

Enough storage for long runs
Made of durable nylon
Comfortable back padding
Dishwasher safe bladder
Excellent hydration system

Cons

One size – women may not be able to get the best fit from the harness
Not enough ventilation for hot weather

Find the latest price on:
Amazon

Osprey Duro 15 Hydration Pack

The Osprey Duro 15 is another top choice for trail runners and distance runners, although it can also double as a day bag for hiking and biking.

The pack features Osprey’s trademark waist belt that wraps around the body. This is fitted with zippered pockets on each size which provide quick access to snacks or energy gels. Two more rear zippered pockets, large enough for a hat and gloves or wallet, are accessible without removing the pack. Plus, the harness, which resembles a running vest, has two stretch pockets for soft flasks, and a zippered phone pocket. Lower compression straps let you fit the pack more snugly on your waist while an adjustable and elasticated chest straps allow you to breathe normally.

Inside the main dual-zippered compartment there’s plenty of space for kit and there’s a separate zippered pocket for the 2.5-litre Hydraulics Reservoir.

Pros

Comfortable fit
Highly adjustable
Lots of storage space
Available in two sizes (S/M or M/L)

Cons

Pricey

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Osprey

Best hydration pack for mountain biking

Osprey Katari 3 Hydration Pack

The Osprey Katari 3 Hydration Pack is designed for hot weather mountain bikers who need to drink a lot but don’t need to carry much stuff. The pack comes with a 2.5-litre water bladder but has just 3 litres of gear capacity. This bladder fits into an external sleeve with buckle closures, allowing you to refill easily. Stretch side pockets give you a place to store snacks, repair kit or a small bottle.

As we expect from Osprey packs, the Katari 3 is made from durable fabric and features a comfortable harness system. Plus, a foam back panel with air-mesh and central air ventilation prevents sweat build up. So if you like to ride light or you tend to ride in hot climates where extra water is more useful than an extra layer, then the Katari 3 is a smart choice.

Pros

Quick access to the bladder
Comfortable and well ventilated
Quality construction

Cons

Limited gear storage
No waist strap (although it’s not essential for a pack of this size)

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Osprey | United By Blue

Patagonia Nine Trails 14L Hydration Pack

Eco-conscious: Patagonia support 1% for the Planet

The Nine Trails 14L Hydration Pack from Patagonia is designed for full days in the great outdoors. The pack’s main compartment gives you plenty of space for extra layers, food, and the included bladder. Plus, three external stretch pockets let you stash small items on the go. It’s also made of Cordura ripstop nylon outer fabric, a super tough but lightweight material.

This pack delivers an excellent balance of comfort and ventilation. The back panel is made from a highly breathable mono-mesh while the foam waist and shoulder straps are perforated for extra airflow. The waist strap wraps securely around the torso, minimising bounce and distributing weight evenly, and the sternum strap is adjustable.

Pros

Durable and well made
Multiple pockets
Available in two sizes (S/M or L/XL)

Cons

Expensive

Find the latest price at:
Patagonia | REI

Platypus Tokul XC Minimalist Hydration Backpack

Lightweight, streamline, and very user-friendly, the Platypus Tokul XC is one of our favourite hydration packs for mountain biking. It features a RidgeAir foam back panel that provides comfort and ventilation whilst retaining the pack’s shape. There are four pockets inside the main compartment to keep your bike kit organised. Plus, on the outside, you can enjoy bike light attachment, reflective strips, and straps for helmet storage.

The pack is available in three sizes (5L, 8L, 12L) and comes with an EVO 3 litre water bladder. This fits snugly inside its own separate pocket with an H20 port and a magnetic hose fixture on the shoulder strap. The bladder’s wide opening and detachable hose make it super easy to refill as you can leave the hose threaded through your pack.

For more information read our full review of the Platypus Tokul XC.

Pros

Excellent ventilation
Three size options
User-friendly bladder

Cons

Not the best fit for small torsos

Find the latest price on:
Amazon

Best hydration pack for skiing and snowboarding

Osprey Kamber 16 Snow Pack

The Osprey Kamber 16 Snow Pack is specifically designed for adventures in the snowy season. It’s fitted with vertical snowboard and diagonal ski attachment points for carrying your gear when hiking in the backcountry. You can also attach other gear to these points, such as snowshoes and ice picks. The pack is reinforced to withstand abrasion from metal equipment. Plus, the main compartment is large enough to hold most probes and shovels, as well as a water bladder of up to 3 litres. Meanwhile, a zippered front compartment with internal pockets stores your sunscreen, spare layer and emergency kit.

Another nifty feature is an insulated shoulder strap which prevents your water from freezing in the tube on sub-zero days. This, coupled with a scratch-free goggles pocket and glove-friendly zippers and buckles makes the Kamber 16 the best hydration pack for snowboarding and skiing on our list. We like the shape too. Its contoured EVA harness provides some ventilation. Plus, it’s slimline and doesn’t restrict arm movement while skiing or touring.

Its 16-litre capacity is perfect for carrying water, snacks, and an extra layer, but it’s too small to carry mountaineering kit. Fortunately, this 16-litre hydration pack is also available in larger capacities and Osprey offers a woman’s specific version, the Kresta 14.

Pros

Winter-sport specific design
Fitted with thermal insulation sleeve
Easy access compartments
Available in multiple sizes

Cons

Water bladder not included
The hip belt is not robust enough for heavy loads

Find the latest price on:
Amazon | REI | Osprey

What to look for in the best hydration packs for hiking, running skiing and biking

Types of hydration backpacks

Hiking

The best hydration pack for hiking will have plenty of storage space for food, clothing, and other gear as well as a full water bladder. Hiking hydration packs tend to have more padded harness systems, making them comfortable to wear all day long.

Running

Compact and close-fitting, the best hydration pack for running should be lightweight and streamline. A wide pack will have you bashing your elbows on each arm swing. Likewise, the bottom of the pack should finish at the top of the waist rather than sitting on the hips as a normal backpack would.

Because of this, running hydration packs tend to have a smaller gear capacity and more quick-access pockets on the front of the pack. Running packs also need a more secure harness system that wraps around the upper body and prevents bouncing.

Biking

These are designed to feel stable on the back and minimise wind resistance. The best hydration pack for mountain biking is low profile and compact but should still offer enough space for a top layer, puncture repair kit, and snacks. The waist strap should be minimal too so it doesn’t affect comfort while peddling. Some are also fitted with an external helmet and light attachments and reflective strips.

Skiing and snowboarding

Skiing and snowboarding hydration packs have a similar design to hiking packs. Gear storage is important but they should also be streamlined. Key features to look for in the best hydration pack for skiing include glove-friendly zippers, helmet and equipment attachments, scratch-free goggle pockets, and insulation for the bladder’s tube.

Hydration pack features

Gear capacity

Hydrations packs for running, biking, day hikes, and skiing usually range from 5 to 30 litres. 5-litre packs are tailored to runners and minimalist cyclists while 5 to 15-litre packs are best for a day cycling, distance running, or minimal hiking. Packs with a 15+ litre capacity are ideal for day hikes.

Work out how much space you need to carry your gear and pick a hydration pack with the right capacity for you.

Fit

As with a regular backpack, your hydration pack should match your torso size and sit comfortably on your back, hips and shoulders. The best hydration packs have multiple adjustment points so you can get the perfect fit. Some are available in two or more torso sizes or in a woman-specific or child-specific fit.

Ventilation

For more comfort in warm weather, we like hydration packs that have breathable materials, such as air-mesh, and moisture-wicking properties in the waist and shoulder straps. We also look for packs with ventilated back panels.

Weatherproofing

If you want to get outdoors in all weathers then you’ll need a hydration pack that withstands the elements. Look out for waterproof fabrics or materials with durable water repellent coatings (DWR). Alternatively, the pack might come with a lightweight waterproof cover.

Important features to look for in the best hydration bladder

Water capacity: bladders usually have a capacity between 1 litre and 3 litres.
Type of opening: fold top, zip-top, or screw top.
Type of bite valve: a self-sealing bite valve is the easiest to use and prevents water loss
Quick-connect tubes: these allow you to remove, clean, and refill the bladder without unthreading the tube