Hydration Bladders: Top picks for Hikers and backpackers
What is a hydration bladder?
A hydration bladder is a water reservoir that is inserted into a backpack or clipped to the outside of one. It has a tube that runs from the bladder to the shoulder strap, so the user can drink hands-free while on the go.
How much water can a hydration bladder hold?
If you’re an avid hiker or camper, you know how important it is to stay hydrated while on the trail. But how much water can your hydration bladder actually hold?
Here’s a quick rundown: most hydration bladders hold between 1 and 3 litres of water. That’s enough to keep you hydrated for a couple of hours, depending on how active you are.
Of course, if you’re planning on being out in the wilderness for extended periods, you’ll need to bring along more water than your hydration bladder can hold. But it’s still a good idea to have one with you, as it’s much easier to drink from a bladder than it is to drink from a water bottle. Also, bringing a water filter, like a lifestraw, can minimize the amount you carry.
How to use a hydration bladder?
We all know the importance of staying hydrated, especially when engaging in physical activity. But lugging around a water bottle can be a pain, which is where a hydration bladder comes in handy. Here are a few tips on using a hydration bladder to ensure you stay properly hydrated while on the go.
1. Fill ‘er up: The first step is to fill up your hydration bladder with water. Make sure to clean it out before using it for the first time.
2. Find the right spot: Once it’s filled, you’ll need to find a good spot to put it. If you’re going for a run, you might want to put it in a backpack or fanny pack. You can strap it to your frame if you’re riding a bike.
3. Drink up: When thirsty, bite down on the valve and drink away. Make sure to close the valve when you’re not drinking so that water doesn’t leak out.
4. Clean it out: After each use, clean your hydration bladder with hot water and soap. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing inside.
With these tips, you’ll be properly hydrated and ready to take on whatever adventure comes your way!
How to install a hydration bladder in the backpack?
If you’re new to the world of hydration bladders or just looking for a refresher on installing one in your backpack, this guide is for you! Read on for tips on how to get yours set up and ready to go.
1. First, make sure you have the right size bladder for your backpack. There’s nothing worse than cramming a too-big bladder into a too-small backpack – believe us, we’ve tried it.
2. Once you’ve got the right size bladder, it’s time to start filling it up with water. If you’re using a hose to fill it up, make sure the hose is attached to the bladder before you start filling. This will help avoid any spills.
3. Once your bladder is full, it’s time to put it into your backpack. Start by threading the hose through one of the backpack’s straps – this will help keep the hose in place and prevent it from getting tangled.
4. Once the hose is in place, carefully insert the bladder into the main compartment of your backpack. You may need to wiggle it around a bit to get it in there, but be careful not to puncture it with anything sharp.
5. Once it is in place, put it on your backpack and adjust the straps, so it fits snugly against your back. The last thing you want is for your bladder to shift around inside your backpack while you’re out on a hike!
And that’s it! You’re all set with a properly installed hydration bladder in your backpack. Now go forth and stay hydrated on all your adventures!
How do I choose a hydration bladder?
When it comes to choosing a hydration bladder, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is what type of activities you’ll be using it for. If you’re an avid hiker, you’ll want something durable and withstand a lot of wear and tear. On the other hand, if you’re just looking for something to use during your daily jog, you can probably get away with something a little less heavy-duty.
Another important consideration is how much water you need to carry with you. If you’re only going to be out for an hour or so, a smaller bladder will suffice. But if you’re planning on being out all day or if you tend to drink a lot of water during your workouts, you’ll need something that can hold more. The good news is that there are plenty of options on the market, so you should be able to find one that meets your needs.
Finally, make sure to try the bladder out before you buy it. Fill it up with water and see how easy it is to drink from. If it’s too hard to suck the water out, then it’s probably not going to be very practical for you. On the other hand, if it’s too easy to drink, you might end up spilling water all over yourself! The best way to find the perfect balance is to try a few different models until you find one that feels comfortable for you.
Which hydration bladder pack is the best?
Best Hydration Bladder (Top Picks)
The Gregory 3D Hydro reservoir is a water bladder hydration bottle that dries quickly, thanks to its integrated QuickDry hangar and is easy to refill. It has a handle, a baseplate for stability, and a hose port for ease of use. It also has a magnetic bite valve and a quick-disconnect hose.
When it comes to staying hydrated on long hikes or runs, Gregory 3D Hydro is one of the most popular options. This hands-free hydration system features a water bladder that can be worn around your waist or over your shoulder, making it easy to drink on the go. But what exactly is a Gregory 3D Hydro? Here’s a quick rundown.
The Gregory 3D Hydro is a hydration system that includes a water bladder and a hose that can be worn over your shoulder or around your waist. The bladder holds up to three litres of water, perfect for long hikes or runs. The hose has a bite valve that allows you to drink without stopping and taking off your pack, which is a huge plus.
One of the best things about the water bladder is that it’s extremely lightweight and comfortable. The bladder is made from a lightweight material, and the hose is designed to not bounce around or get in the way while you’re moving. I’ve used other hydration systems that were bulky and uncomfortable, but this hydration pack is definitely not one of those.
If you’re looking for a hands-free way to stay hydrated on long hikes or runs, the Gregory 3D Hydro is definitely worth checking out. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and easy to use, making it one of the best hydration systems on the market.
Evoc hip hydration pack pro 3L
The EVOC HIP PACK PRO 3 waist bag is the perfect accessory for hikers, campers and bikers who prefer not to wear a backpack. Its 3-litre capacity can accommodate a hydration bladder, small tools, or snacks. In addition to the space for the hydration bladder, it has additional loops for carrying 2 water bottles.
The EVOC Ventiflap system is the perfect way to keep your kidneys ventilated and comfortable on any journey. With a simple pull of the string, you can easily adjust the tightness of the waist belt, which is made of extremely strong and flexible Airo Flex material. This material evenly distributes the load on your hips, taking the strain off your back and providing maximum ventilation. So go ahead and explore new routes and possibilities to your heart’s content!
The best thing about this backpack is that it’s affordable compared to other brands. It’s also very light, so you won’t tire carrying it around. There are also a lot of compartments where you can store your things, and it’s easy to load. The backpack has good ventilation, so your back won’t get sweaty. And finally, it has a lot of useful details, like a rain cover and a built-in whistle.
Recommended use: Mountain hiking, Backpacking, Cycling
Fabric properties: extremely tear-resistant, extremely abrasion-resistant
Osprey HYDRAULICS 3L RESERVOIR water bag
The Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir is perfect for staying hydrated on your outdoor adventures! The pouring shield and the top opening Slide-Seal allow you to easily fill and empty the reservoir while allowing full access for cleaning after use.
The unique Osprey Hydraulics anatomically shaped back plate provides stability and creates a flat profile that ensures the magazine easily slides in and out of the pack. The bite valve is magnetic, allowing for easy storage and access to water on the go. When the bite valve is not used, it also features an easy turn-on and-off system.
Made of tough yet lightweight TPU material designed to withstand freezing or hot water, the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast!
Features:
Anatomically shaped reservoir Hydraulics™
Removable and replaceable hose and bite valve
Made from an anti-microbial MPE film.
Long handle for easy filling
Hydrostatic connections
Liter marks printed on the body of the reservoir
Slide-seal™ top opening for easy filling and cleaning
The pouring shield extends the collar for easy filling
The carrying handle allows easy management and filling of the reservoir
Bite Valve offers a quick and smooth water supply
Made of durable TPU material
Removable and replaceable hose
CamelBak Crux 3-Liter Water Reservoir – Hydration Bladder
If you’re looking for a reservoir that won’t weigh you down on your camping adventures, the CamelBak Crux 3 L reservoir is a great option. It features an extended opening for easy filling and cleaning. And the Quick Link system lets you easily attach it to your backpack. Plus, at only 235 grams, it’s one of the lightest reservoirs on the market.
No matter where your adventures take you, make sure you bring a water filtration system to enjoy the clean, refreshing water. The Crux filtered by LifeStraw reservoir can hold up to 2 liters of water and filters it in two steps. First, the hollow fiber filter removes all bacteria, parasites and microplastics. And then, the Ion Exchange filter reduces lead, aftertastes, odors, chlorine and other chemicals. So you can enjoy clean and tasty water anywhere on the road.
The CamelBak Crux water reservoir is not only narrower and flatter to save space in your backpack, but also has a wider diameter tube for 20% better hydration. The easy-to-grip handle makes it easy to carry, and the wide opening is sealed with a sealing cap. The mouthpiece cap has also been improved, is now placed in an ergonomic position on the tube, and is easy to close. The reservoir is equipped with a Quick Link system for easy disconnection of the tube, making it easy to use.
Our Verdict:
This 3L backpack reservoir is a great way to keep your hands free while on the go. The lightweight, abrasion-resistant material is easy to clean, and the closing system of the insulating cover keeps your drinks nice and cold.
Shop The MSR Dromedary hydration water bladder bag
The MSR Dromedary Bag is the perfect choice for your next expedition! Its tough 1,000-Denier exterior can take a beating, and its improved BPA-free food-grade lining means better-tasting water. The Dromedary Bag is also completely collapsible for superior packing efficiency. It’s available in three sizes: four, six, or 10 liters.
Ideal for trips to the mountains or multi-day stays in nature. They are made of durable material with 1000D abrasion resistance, it is also light and easy to pack. Inside the bag is a laminate suitable for food use, BPA-Free, suitable for cooking and freezing.
Dromedary bags are made from 1000 Denier exteriors that can handle freezing(BPA free) abrasion resistant material that is lighter and easier to pack. And comes in 2L, 4L, 6L and 10L capacity.
Features:
- Water bag made of durable and health-friendly material
- Innovative lid that allows easy filling, drinking and pouring
- Practical design of the bag – low profile and wide neck
- Side straps for carrying or hanging
- Cap type: 3 in 1 universal cap
- Material: BPA-free
- Stable eyelets for hanging
Platypus Platy 2-Liter Flexible Water Bottle
We all know how important it is to stay hydrated, especially when we’re out and about. But lugging around a heavy water bottle can be a drag. That’s where the Platypus Bottle 2.0 L comes in! This lightweight plastic water bottle can be rolled up to a minimum size after emptying, so you can easily stash it in your bag or pocket. The Platypus Bottle 2.0 L has a volume of 2 liters, is equipped with a classic simple screw cap, and is compatible with drinking “camelback” systems or with any other caps from Platypus. Weighing only 36 grams, it is up to 80% lighter than conventional water bottles of comparable size.
It’s made of harmless plastic (BPA-free) and is equipped with an antibacterial treatment with silver ions, so the water will not have an unwanted smell or taste. After filling, the bottle can be placed against a classic rigid bottle. So next time you’re headed out for a hike, a run, or just a walk around the block, make sure to bring along the Platypus Bottle 2.0 L!
The Platypus Bottle is a special bottle that is shaped like a platypus and is perfect for carrying fluids when you are travelling or going on a hike. The bottle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand so you can drink from it easily, and it is also much lighter than other types of bottles made from hard plastic. You can also add a Platypus Taste-Free Drink Tube to the bottle so you can drink from it without using your hands.
Product details:
- The materials are odorless, do not contain BPA, BPS or phthalates
- HyFLO’s self-closing bite valve makes hands-free hydration faster and easier
- 30% faster flow
- An integrated hanging loop makes it easy to secure the tank in a backpack or anywhere else
- Urethane/polyurethane film
- Big zip opening
- BPA free, odorless and tasteless
- carrying handle; wedge-cut bottom
How to clean a hydration bladder?
We all know how important it is to stay hydrated, especially when we’re out on a hike or spending a day in the sun. But what do you do when your trusty water bladder starts to get a little…smelly? Here are some tips on how to clean a hydrating water bladder, so you can keep sipping away without any worries.
1. Start by emptying out the bladder and rinsing it with clean water.
2. Mix up a cleaning solution of water and white vinegar (1:1 ratio) and give the bladder a good soak.
3. Use a small brush or sponge to scrub away any stubborn dirt or grime.
4. Rinse the bladder well and let it air dry completely before storing it away.
5. Repeat this process every few months, or as needed, to keep your water bladder in tip-top shape.
Do hydration bladders burst under pressure from backpack?
Yes, they can. If you’re out on a hike and your hydration bladder is under pressure from your backpack, there’s a chance it could burst. However, if you take a few precautions, you can avoid this from happening.
Make sure that your hydration bladder is made of a durable material that can withstand pressure. If you’re unsure, ask a salesperson at the store or check our recommendations above.
In addition, don’t overfill your hydration bladder. Leave some room at the top so that it doesn’t expand too much and put too much pressure on the walls.
Finally, be careful when attaching your hydration bladder to your backpack. Make sure that it’s secure, away from sharp objects, and not likely to come loose or fall out.
If you follow these tips, you should be able to avoid having your hydration bladder burst under pressure from your backpack.
