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Best Hydration Backpacks For Hiking (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a comfortable and convenient way to carry water and gear during your outdoor adventures, hydration backpacks for hiking may be just what you need. These backpacks are designed to hold water bladders and have a hose that runs to the front for easy drinking on the go. But before you buy a hydration backpack, there are a few factors to consider.

First, think about the size and capacity you need. How long will your hikes be? How much water and gear do you want to carry? Make sure the backpack you choose is the right size for your needs. Second, consider the fit and comfort of the backpack. Look for models with adjustable straps and back panels that will conform to your body for a comfortable fit. Lastly, think about any additional features you might want, such as pockets for snacks or extra gear.

Are you tired of carrying a bulky water bottle in your hand while hiking? Have you ever wanted to drink water on the go, but found it inconvenient to stop and dig through your backpack? If so, hydration backpacks for hiking might be just what you need. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we've put together this guide to help you make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn more about what to consider when buying a hydration backpack for hiking, and find the perfect one for your needs.

10 Best Hydration Backpacks For Hiking

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for hikers who need a hydration backpack for carrying water and other essentials on their treks.
2
The product is ideal for hiking and carrying hydration with its backpack design.
3
The hydration backpack is ideal for hikers who need to carry water and supplies during their trek.
4
The product is ideal for women who enjoy hiking and need a comfortable and spacious backpack to carry their belongings.
5
Ideal for kids to carry hydration while hiking or biking with 50 oz capacity and comfortable design.
6
This product is ideal for women looking to hike or backpack with a small, durable and comfortable backpack.
7
It's an ideal gear pack for hiking, cycling, running, and camping with an insulated water bladder to keep your liquid cool.
8
The product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a hydration backpack for biking or other activities.
9
The product is ideal for women who enjoy hiking and need a durable and comfortable backpack to carry their gear.
10
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and climbing, with waterproof material and rain cover.
Ideal for hikers who need a hydration backpack for carrying water and other essentials on their treks.
The product is ideal for hiking and carrying hydration with its backpack design.
The hydration backpack is ideal for hikers who need to carry water and supplies during their trek.
The product is ideal for women who enjoy hiking and need a comfortable and spacious backpack to carry their belongings.
Ideal for kids to carry hydration while hiking or biking with 50 oz capacity and comfortable design.
This product is ideal for women looking to hike or backpack with a small, durable and comfortable backpack.
It's an ideal gear pack for hiking, cycling, running, and camping with an insulated water bladder to keep your liquid cool.
The product is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a hydration backpack for biking or other activities.
The product is ideal for women who enjoy hiking and need a durable and comfortable backpack to carry their gear.
Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and climbing, with waterproof material and rain cover.

1. Osprey Skarab 30 Men's Hiking Hydration Backpack, Black

The backpack features a dedicated hydration compartment that comes with a BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak. The wide-mouth bucket-style opening to the main compartment makes it easy to access your gear. There is a front shove-it pocket that can be used to store items that you need to access quickly. Dual zippered hipbelt pockets provide additional storage space for small items.

The backpack also includes dual zippered large side panel pockets that can be used to store water bottles or other items. The front panel has daisy chain attachment points that allow you to attach additional gear. There is also a zippered, scratch-free slash pocket that can be used to store sunglasses or devices. The upper side compression straps help to keep the load stable while the trekking pole loop attachment points allow you to carry trekking poles.

Overall, this backpack is a great choice for outdoor activities such as hiking or camping. It provides ample storage space and is designed to keep you hydrated throughout your adventures.

Pros

  • Dedicated hydration compartment with included BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak
  • Wide-mouth bucket-style opening to the main compartment
  • Front shove-it pocket and dual zippered hipbelt pockets
  • Dual zippered large side panel pockets and front panel daisy chain attachment points
  • Zippered, scratch-free slash pocket for sunglasses or devices
  • Upper side compression straps and trekking pole loop attachment points

2. Osprey Skarab 22 Men's Hiking Hydration Backpack, Deep Blue

The backpack comes with a dedicated hydration compartment that includes a BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak. The backpack is designed as a true rucksack with a wide-mouth bucket-style opening to the main compartment, making it easy to pack and unpack. The backpack also features dual entry stretch mesh side pockets, which can be used to store water bottles or other small items. The backpack comes with dual upper side compression straps and trekking pole loop attachment points, making it easy to carry hiking poles or other equipment. Additionally, the backpack has a zippered, scratch-free slash pocket for sunglasses or devices, and front panel daisy chain attachment points for added convenience.

Whether you're going on a day hike or a multi-day trek, this backpack is designed to meet all your needs. The dedicated hydration compartment ensures that you stay hydrated throughout your journey, while the wide-mouth bucket-style opening makes it easy to access your gear. The dual entry stretch mesh side pockets provide additional storage space, and the dual upper side compression straps and trekking pole loop attachment points make it easy to carry all your equipment. The backpack's zippered, scratch-free slash pocket is perfect for storing sunglasses or devices, and the front panel daisy chain attachment points allow you to attach additional gear as needed.

Pros

  • Dedicated hydration compartment with included BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak
  • Wide-mouth bucket-style opening to the main compartment
  • Dual entry stretch mesh side pockets
  • Dual upper side compression straps and trekking pole loop attachment points
  • Zippered, scratch-free slash pocket for sunglasses or devices
  • Front panel daisy chain attachment points

3. Osprey Manta 24 Men's Hiking Hydration Backpack , Black

The backpack has a dedicated hydration compartment that comes with a BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5 Reservoir and a magnetic sternum strap bite valve. The adjustable harness allows for a perfect fit, and the tensioned backpanel provides ventilation while keeping the weight off of the user's back. The backpack also features dual-zippered hip belt pockets and a front panel pocket for additional storage. The adjustable sternum strap has a magnetic closure and bite valve attachment for easy access to hydration. The backpack has a low-profile side zip front pocket with an inner pocket and key clip for secure storage. Additionally, the backpack comes with an integrated rain cover to keep your gear dry in wet weather.

Pros

  • Dedicated hydration compartment with a BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5 Reservoir and magnetic sternum strap bite valve
  • Adjustable harness for a perfect fit
  • Tensioned backpanel provides ventilation while keeping weight off the user's back
  • Dual-zippered hip belt pockets and front panel pocket for additional storage
  • Adjustable sternum strap with magnetic closure and bite valve attachment for easy access to hydration
  • Low-profile side zip front pocket with inner pocket and key clip for secure storage
  • Integrated rain cover included to keep your gear dry in wet weather

4. Osprey Tempest 9 Women's Hiking Backpack, Jasper Green, X-Small/small

The LidLock bike helmet attachment is a fantastic accessory for any cyclist. With its easy-to-use design, it securely fastens any bike helmet to the outside of a backpack or sling bag, freeing up valuable space inside. The LidLock is made from durable materials and can accommodate virtually any helmet size or style.

In addition to the LidLock, this backpack features an internal padded laptop sleeve. This sleeve is perfect for safely storing laptops or tablets up to X inches in size. The padding provides added protection from bumps and drops, while the sleeve keeps devices secure and organized.

Another great feature of this backpack is the blinkie light attachment. This allows cyclists to easily attach a light to the outside of the bag, increasing visibility and safety on the road. The attachment point is strategically placed for maximum effectiveness and convenience.

Overall, this backpack is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to carry a helmet and laptop or tablet on their bike commute. Its durable construction, versatile features, and comfortable design make it a top pick for cyclists everywhere.

Pros

  • Securely fastens any helmet to the outside of a backpack or sling bag
  • Internal padded laptop sleeve provides added protection for devices
  • Blinkie light attachment increases visibility and safety on the road
  • Durable construction and versatile features make it a top pick for cyclists

5. Camelbak Mini M.u.l.e. Kids Hydration Backpack, 50 Oz, Baton Rouge/ Flames

The CamelBak kids mini M.U.L.E. pack is the perfect choice for young explorers who love biking. With a capacity of 1.5L, this hydration pack is small enough for kids to carry, yet large enough to keep them hydrated throughout their ride. The pack is also equipped with a built-in safety whistle, extra storage pockets, and reflective accents that enhance visibility in low-light environments.

The Crux reservoir is another highlight of this hydration pack, delivering 20% more water per sip. It also features an ergonomic handle for easier refilling and an on/off lever that makes preventing leaks simple. The kid-friendly on/off switch supplies water easily and efficiently, ensuring your child stays hydrated throughout their bike ride.

Designed for comfort and functionality, the mini M.U.L.E. hydration backpack has a bike tool organizer pocket, a breathable mesh back panel for a cool and comfortable ride, and a stretch overflow pocket perfect for stashing a rain shell or extra layer. The backpack is also kid-friendly in sizing, with reflective strips and a safety whistle that make kids easy to spot on the trail. Your little ones will surely love this hydration pack, keeping them hydrated and happy on their biking adventures.

Pros

  • Lightweight and small enough for kids to carry
  • Built-in safety whistle and reflective accents for enhanced visibility
  • Crux reservoir delivers 20% more water per sip
  • Ergonomic handle and on/off lever prevent leaks
  • Comfortable and functional backpack with extra storage pockets
  • Kid-friendly sizing with reflective strips and safety whistle

6. Osprey Tempest 34 Women's Hiking Backpack, Violac Purple, X-Small/small

The Osprey Women's Sirrus 32L Backpack is the perfect companion for day hikes or overnight trips. It features a wide mouth, bucket-style main compartment opening that makes it easy to pack and access your essentials. Inside, there is a zippered mesh pocket and key clip to keep your valuables organized.

The backpack also comes with an external hydration sleeve that can accommodate up to a 3L reservoir (sold separately) so you can stay hydrated on the trail. The adjustable shoulder harness ensures a perfect fit and the stretch mesh pockets on both sides of the pack provide convenient storage for bottles and smaller items.

There are two zippered hip belt pockets and a top panel external zippered slash pocket for easy-access storage. The Stow-On-The-Go Trekking pole attachment allows you to quickly attach and carry trekking poles while wearing the pack. The backpack has a recommended load range of 15-25 lbs. and a pack weight of 2.33 lbs. The dimensions are 21.26H X 11.42W X 9.06D IN., and the volume is 32 Liters.

Pros

  • Wide mouth, bucket-style main compartment opening for easy packing and access.
  • Adjustable shoulder harness ensures a perfect fit.
  • Stretch mesh pockets on both sides of the pack provide convenient storage.
  • External hydration sleeve accommodates up to a 3L reservoir (sold separately).
  • Stow-On-The-Go Trekking pole attachment allows you to quickly attach and carry trekking poles while wearing the pack.
  • Recommended load range of 15-25 lbs.
  • 32-liter volume is perfect for day hikes or overnight trips.

Cons

  • – The backpack may not be suitable for heavier loads.

7. Hydration Backpack With Insulated Water Bladder

The Miracol water backpack is the perfect accessory for all your outdoor activities. Whether you're hiking, cycling, running, biking, camping, jogging, or climbing a mountain, this backpack with a 2L reservoir will bring you a hassle-free water supply and excellent insulation layer, ensuring a different wearing experience. It can even be used as a daypack or book bag.

This water backpack comes with a 2-liter BPA-free food-grade water bladder with a large 3.1" opening for easy ice filling and cleaning. The inside thermal insulated aluminum foil layer of the compartment keeps your water cool for up to 4 hours, and its good heat insulation can also keep your lunchbox warm and food fresh on the trail. You can enjoy cool water and fresh food whenever and wherever you go.

Miracol backpacks with water bags are made of nylon ripstop material, making them sturdy, lightweight, and waterproof. The shoulder straps and back area of the water pack are filled with highly breathable mesh padding, allowing you to feel comfortable during travel. The adjustable shoulder, chest, and waist straps make the backpack fit your body perfectly, reducing shaking and friction while riding a bike.

The backpack's volume is about 15L, providing ample storage space for your outdoor hiking needs. Multiple compartments will fit your clothes, iPad, water pouch, snack, and other accessories. 2 mesh pockets on both sides are perfect for a bottle and an umbrella, while pockets of different sizes and functions assure you that you can bring everything you need for travel. It is perfect for runners, bicycle lovers, and other outdoor sports fans.

Miracol teams offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee, and they are dedicated to providing the best customer service and shopping experience. If you have any problems or questions with their product, feel free to contact them. This hydration cooler backpack is great outdoor sports gear for both men and women or even for small kids. It's also a perfect festival gift for boys and girls, so buy now and start your journey!

Pros

  • Ample storage space for outdoor hiking needs
  • Multiple compartments and pockets for various accessories
  • Highly breathable mesh padding for comfortable travel
  • Durable, lightweight, and waterproof nylon ripstop material
  • 2-liter BPA-free food-grade water bladder with a large 3.1" opening for easy ice filling and cleaning
  • Inside thermal insulated aluminum foil layer keeps your water cool for up to 4 hours

Cons

  • – No specific cons found.

8. Osprey Raptor 14 Men's Bike Hydration Backpack , Cedar Green

The backpack features a Countouring AirScape backpanel and a bike-specific shape harness that ensures a comfortable fit during long rides. The backpanel provides ventilation, which helps to keep the user cool and dry. The harness is designed to fit the user's body perfectly and distribute the weight of the backpack evenly.

Additionally, the backpack comes with stretch mesh zippered hipbelt pockets, which are perfect for storing small items such as snacks and keys. These pockets are easily accessible and do not interfere with the user's movements.

The backpack also features a LidLock bike helmet attachment, which allows the user to attach their helmet to the backpack when not in use. This attachment is easy to use and keeps the helmet securely in place. The backpack is made of high-quality materials and is built to last. It is perfect for cyclists who need a reliable and comfortable backpack for their daily commutes or long rides.

Pros

  • Countouring AirScape backpanel provides ventilation
  • Bike-specific shape harness ensures a comfortable fit
  • Stretch mesh zippered hipbelt pockets are easily accessible
  • LidLock bike helmet attachment keeps the helmet securely in place
  • Made of high-quality materials and built to last

9. Osprey Tempest Pro 28 Women's Hiking Backpack, Titanium, Medium/large

The Osprey Daylite Plus is designed for those who need a versatile and durable backpack for their everyday adventures. It features a wide-mouth, bucket-style main compartment opening, which makes it easy to access your belongings. Inside the main compartment, you will find a zippered mesh pocket and a key clip to help you keep your items organized. The pack also has an external hydration sleeve that can accommodate up to a 3L reservoir (sold separately), so you can stay hydrated on the go.

The adjustable shoulder harness allows you to dial in the perfect fit, ensuring that the backpack stays comfortable on your back for hours. The stretch mesh pockets on both sides of the pack provide convenient storage for water bottles and smaller items, while the two zippered hipbelt pockets and LidLock helmet attachment give you even more storage options. The backpack is constructed with Osprey's Nanofly fabric, which integrates ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) ripstop and 100D nylon. This creates an incredibly light fabric with remarkable abrasion resistance, ensuring that your backpack will last for years to come.

Overall, the Osprey Daylite Plus is a great backpack for those who need a reliable and versatile pack for their everyday adventures. Whether you're going on a hike, heading to work, or running errands around town, this backpack has everything you need to stay organized and comfortable throughout the day.

Pros

  • Wide-mouth, bucket-style main compartment opening for easy access to belongings
  • Adjustable shoulder harness for a comfortable fit
  • External hydration sleeve accommodates up to a 3L reservoir (sold separately)
  • Stretch mesh pockets on both sides of the pack provide convenient storage for water bottles and smaller items
  • Two zippered hipbelt pockets and LidLock helmet attachment give you even more storage options
  • Constructed with Osprey's Nanofly fabric for remarkable abrasion resistance

10. G4free Waterproof Hiking Backpack For Outdoor Adventures.

The 50L hiking backpack is made of durable Waterproof Nylon material, making it versatile and multi-functional. It has high quality SBS pull string zippers and good ventilation, ensuring that it does not deform easily. The backpack has a large bearing capacity of up to 50L and measures 14.2 x 9.4 x 23.6 inches, making it spacious and roomy.

This backpack has several pockets for storage, including a large front zipper pocket for quick access, a large deep main pocket, and a special zipper pocket for shoes or dirty clothes. It also has a bottom rain cover pocket that comes with a rain cover, as well as 2 hipbelt pockets for your cell phone or MP3 player and 2 side pockets for bottles or an umbrella.

The backpack also has a compartment in the main pocket specifically designed for a hydration bladder, allowing you to stay hydrated throughout the day. This makes it perfect for various sports activities, such as climbing, hiking, camping, backpacking, and traveling. Please note that the hydration bladder is not included.

The backpack is designed for comfort, with a breathable mesh back panel that quickly spreads out heat, promoting breathable perspiration and resistance to sweat. The thick shoulder straps are specially designed to relieve weight on the shoulder, making it easier and more comfortable to carry the backpack for a long time.

This hiking backpack also comes with a rain cover to protect your belongings from the rain. It has a large room for a hydration bladder, iPad, mobile phone, A4 documents, books, magazines, and other accessories. Additionally, it has multiple attachment and straps for hanging tools, trekking poles, tents, sleeping bags, and other items, all of which can be protected from the rain.

Pros

  • Made of durable Waterproof Nylon material
  • Versatile and multi-functional
  • Spacious and roomy
  • Several pockets for storage
  • Special compartment for hydration bladder
  • Designed for comfort
  • Comes with a rain cover
  • Multiple attachment and straps for hanging tools

Best Hydration Backpacks For Hiking FAQs

How do you clean and maintain a hydration backpack for hiking, and what are some common mistakes to avoid?

Cleaning and maintaining a hydration backpack for hiking is crucial to ensure that it stays in good condition and is safe to use. The first step in cleaning is to empty the backpack of any remaining water or fluids. Then, remove the bladder from the backpack and rinse it with warm water. Use a mild soap and a soft-bristled brush to clean the bladder and hose, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as this can damage the bladder and cause it to deteriorate. It is also important to dry the bladder thoroughly before storing it, as moisture can lead to the growth of bacteria and mold.

When storing the hydration backpack, make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it with any sharp objects or in a tightly packed space, as this can cause damage to the bladder.

Common mistakes to avoid include leaving water in the bladder for extended periods, as this can cause bacteria to grow and lead to unpleasant odors and even illness. It is also important to regularly inspect the bladder and hose for any signs of damage or wear, such as leaks or punctures. By following these tips, you can ensure that your hydration backpack stays clean and in good condition for all your hiking adventures.

How much water can a typical hydration backpack hold, and how long will it last on a hike?

A typical hydration backpack can hold anywhere from 1.5 to 3 liters of water. The amount of water you choose to carry in your hydration backpack will depend on the length and nature of your hike, as well as your personal hydration needs. For a shorter hike, you may only need to carry 1.5 liters of water, but for a longer hike, you may want to carry closer to 3 liters.

The length of time a hydration backpack will last on a hike will depend on a number of factors such as the weather, the intensity of the hike, and your personal hydration needs. If you're hiking in hot weather and sweating a lot, you'll need to drink more water and your backpack will empty faster. On the other hand, if you're hiking in cool weather and not sweating as much, your backpack will last longer.

It's important to note that you should always bring more water than you think you'll need on a hike. It's better to have too much water than not enough. Dehydration can be dangerous and can lead to a number of health problems. So, always make sure you have enough water to stay hydrated throughout your hike.

What additional storage features are available on hydration backpacks for hiking, and how can they be used effectively?

Hydration backpacks for hiking come with a variety of storage options that can be very useful when exploring the great outdoors. One of the most common features is the addition of pockets on the front and sides of the backpack. These pockets can be used to store small items such as snacks, sunscreen, maps, and other essentials that need to be accessed quickly without having to dig through the main compartment.

Another popular storage solution is the use of external attachment points, such as loops and daisy chains. These can be used to attach additional gear to the backpack, such as trekking poles, ice axes, and even a sleeping pad. This frees up space inside the backpack and makes it easier to carry larger items.

Some hydration backpacks also come with expandable compartments that can be used to increase the amount of storage space available. These compartments can be used to store larger items such as a rain jacket, extra layers of clothing, or even a camera.

When using these additional storage features, it's important to keep in mind the weight distribution of the backpack. To avoid discomfort or injury, heavier items should be placed closer to the center of the backpack, while lighter items can be placed in the front and side pockets. With the right combination of storage features and proper packing techniques, a hydration backpack can make all the difference on a long hike or backpacking trip.

What are the key features to consider when selecting a hydration backpack for hiking?

When selecting a hydration backpack for hiking, there are several key features to consider. First, you want to ensure that the backpack has a hydration bladder that is easy to fill, use, and clean. Look for a backpack with a hydration bladder that is at least 2 liters in capacity, as this will ensure that you have enough water for a full day of hiking.

Second, consider the size and fit of the backpack. Look for a backpack that is comfortable to wear and fits snugly on your back. It should also have enough space to carry all of your hiking essentials, such as snacks, a first aid kit, and extra layers.

Third, consider the weight of the backpack. A lightweight backpack will be more comfortable to wear for long periods of time, especially if you are carrying a lot of gear.

Fourth, consider the durability of the backpack. Look for a backpack made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of hiking.

Finally, consider the price of the backpack. While you don't want to skimp on quality, you also don't want to overspend. Look for a backpack that offers a good balance of features and affordability.

What kinds of materials are used to make hydration backpacks for hiking, and what are the pros and cons of each?

Hydration backpacks for hiking are typically made with a combination of materials such as nylon, polyester, and ripstop fabrics. Nylon is a popular choice due to its durability, abrasion resistance, and water-resistance properties. Polyester is also commonly used as it is lightweight and resistant to UV rays. Ripstop fabrics are designed to prevent tears and punctures from spreading.

Another important material used in hydration backpacks is the hydration bladder. These are typically made from materials such as polyurethane and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). Polyurethane is known for its durability and flexibility, making it a popular material for hydration bladders. TPU is also commonly used as it is more eco-friendly than other materials and has a higher resistance to abrasion and punctures.

The pros of using these materials are that they are lightweight, durable, and water-resistant. They can also withstand the wear and tear that comes with hiking and other outdoor activities. However, the cons of using these materials are that they can be expensive and may not be as breathable as other materials. Additionally, some materials may not be as eco-friendly as others, which can be a concern for environmentally conscious hikers.

Overall, the materials used in hydration backpacks for hiking are chosen for their durability, water-resistance, and lightweight properties. When choosing a hydration backpack, it's important to consider the pros and cons of each material to find one that best suits your needs and preferences.

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