Hydration Packs

[+shunra]

I intend to buy a hydration pack for longish hikes in the mountains. I tend to drink a lot, so I'm inclined to go for a 100 oz size, rather than for smaller models. I'd be happy to hear about your experience with -

 

- reservoirs that you can place inside a backpack as opposed to reservoirs that come with their own backpacks

 

- Camelbak vs. Platypus vs. Dakine vs. ?

 

good places to buy online

 

Thanks!

[+Rogue_monkey]

I'm a fan of the platy. I have used both the hydration pack and the resivoir just in a back pack. if the back pack has a spot for i like it. if it doesn't i find it falls all over the place and sucks.

my hydration pack is a 2L resivoir and a 10L bag. its great for a long hike or ride. fits some gear like a very light jacket. some food. and other small gear and tools.

 

any out door store will sell them and you will find that camelback are really pricey. try cosco (sp?) as well. don't know the quality but i hear the price is good. as for other brands I can't help as the bag i got is from a local company only in canada. Although they do mail orders. check out www.mec.ca

 

hope that helps

[+Searching_ut]

I love hydration packs, and have been using them for years. I very much prefer the Camelbak water bladder, as they are virtually indestructable, even though they seem quite fragile. I've had two Platypus reserviors fail on me in use, which tends to put me off of them. One cracked and leaked, the other was the ziplock top type, and it popped open on me once when I plopped my pack down on the ground. On the downside for the camelbak bladder, they develop objectionable tastes quite easily, so you have to take good care of them as far as drying, not putting anything but water in them etc.

 

As for the pack itself, that has a lot to do with personal preference. I have a couple Kelty backpacks that I put a nylon coated camelbak bladder in, and they work quite well that way. The bladder has grommets that allow you to secure it in the pack. For light duty as far as gear goes, my camelbak mule works okay. I also have 100 oz version of the camelbak ridge runner, and a camelbak peak bagger. They're okay, but not the greatest design or fit in my opinion, and kind of light duty. While I like the bladders, I still think camelbak has a way to go when it comes to pack design.

 

One last thing to consider is making sure you have a shutoff valve in the hose, and use it. It can be quite the bummer when you lay your pack down to log a cache, take photos, or whatever only to discover the pack pressed down on the bite valve and drained out your water......

[+shunra]

My question really relates to long hikes, where I would be carrying lots of stuff with me. If I would use my normal backpack, I would need to find a way to posiion the bladder in it so as to provide optimal weight distribution. If I use a custom-made backpack, I'd need one with plenty of space for other gear...

 

Thanks for the tips, so far!

[+Willapa]

I have two packs that I use. I purchased both at REI. One is a Kelty Redwing ($65 on sale). It is "hydration compatible" which means it doesn't come with a reservoir included, so I purchased a Platypus 3 liter model separately. I've been happy with this configuration and it works well when hiking with my two boys, since the pack is on the large side for a day-hike pack at 2900 cubic inches. They seem to enjoy the trip better if I do all of the carrying. This pack is big enough for an overnight trip. My other pack is smaller and gets used when I go solo or sans rugrats. It's an REI Cascade model and comes with a Nalgene bladder ($85). I believe it carries about 1450 cubic inches.

 

Both packs are comfortable when fully loaded. I stay cooler with the Cascade model, probably due to its smaller size, but the Kelty keeps its contents drier if you encounter a rain shower while on the trail.

 

The reservoirs themselves have their own advantages. I like the bite valve better on the Nalgene model but like the "Ziploc" opening of the Platypus.

 

You can probably find a pack cheaper elsewhere, but I found these packs to be a good way to spend my REI dividend! Both can be found on the REI website.

[+planetrobert]

I use the camel-bak Peak Bagger. This is the size of a normal pack but has several pockets and can compress down if your bag isn't as full.

 

I love it and find that other than the sleeping bag i can pack several days worth of supplies in it plus, a lot of useless crap, 2-32oz nalgene bottles and an extra 100oz bladder.

 

Runs about 100$ in most retail stores, slightly less online.

 

It has a true backpack style waist belt and a cnest strap. VERY GOOD PACK. Well worth the price and if you want the best there is nothing better in my op.

 

BTW it is the biggest pack cb makes of the daypack style, i hear they sell true hiking style packs but that is extreme.

 

I need a water purifyer so i dont need to carry so much.

[+The Jester]

I like the camelbak, i've had one (now three) for years. The bladders can withstand being driven over when full. The shut-off valve is great - either straight or 90 bend. And the insulation kit (tube & bite valve) is great for winter outings.

 

One way to save weight is to use a light weight water filter. I have a Katidyn (sp?) mini-ceramic: 8oz and good for over 2000 gallons. The output fits right on the tube so I can pump right into the bladder without spilling or unpacking. So my 50oz camalbak can take on any length of hike (where there is water).

[+briansnat]

I prefer Platypus bladders because they don't give off the nasty taste that I notice from Camelbaks. I've replaced all my Camelbak bladders with Platypus' of different capacities and shapes and I swap them in and out of my packs depending on how much water I need and which kind of pack I'm using. I even have one that fits nicely in my fanny pack. All have the zipper closure which makes cleaning and adding ice cubes easy. It did pop open on me once when I fell hard directly on my pack, but I've had no problems other than that one time.

 

My two primary day packs are hydration compatible. My ArcTeryx has a sleeve that fits my 2 liter Platypus perfectly. My Mountaismith has a large compartment that allows the bladder to move around which isn't a good thing. A non hydration pack would have a similar issue, though at least with the Mountainsmith, I can separate the water from the rest of my gear. The advantage with the Mountainsmith is that I can fit a looot of water in it. Two bladders if I need them.

 

If you're planning on using the bladder in a regular pack (non hydration compatible), you might want to consider the CamelBak Unbottle. It's a rigid container which keeps it from collapsing as it empties. Sometimes, when the bladders collapse, they will fall over on themselves and cut off the water flow if there is no sleeve to hold it in place. The Unbottle solves this issue.

 

As far as where to buy, just follow my link to the Unbottle and it will bring you to Campmor's website. They have an excellent selection of Platypus and Camelbak products.

Edited September 3, 2004 by briansnat

[+horsegeeks]

We don't make many long hikes so we just bought the generic hydration packs for 19.95 at BJs Wholesale. They have a small day pack incorporated in them too for snacks and supplies. This is just another inexpensive option for those that don't hike all of the time. No problems with them so far.

[+Team DEMP]

I recently (the end of this past spring) bought a Camelbak Rim Runner. It's a 3-liter hydration back and a good size day pack.

 

It's the only hydration pack I've owned so I can't compare it to others, but I'm extremely happy with it. 3 liters is a good amount for me to have as I've taken a lot of 10+ miles hikes. I'd of run out of water if my hydration back was less then 3 liters. The most amazing thing to me is how cool the water stays, even after 6+ hours of hiking.

 

The Rim Runner has a decent size storage area and a smaller pocket up front. In the main storage area, things tend to all fall to the bottom and I wish there were some side pockets of netting or something inside the main pocket, both otherwise I couldn't be any happier.

 

I don't notice any odd taste at all from the Camelbak. The bladder has a large opening that you can fit your hand into which is helpful for cleaning. Also in an emergency (not that I've needed it), most outdoor stores near me seem to carry replacement bladders/parts/accessories for the Camelbak.

 

If you're just getting a bladder to add to an existing backpack, I'm not sure how much the design of the Camelbak adds to keeping the water cool as the area that the bladder goes into seems to be insulated. Just something to consider when making your choice.

 

David

[+briansnat]

The most amazing thing to me is how cool the water stays, even after 6+ hours of hiking.

 

For continuious cold water on real hot days, I throw the bladder in the freezer the day before. The ice melts at just about the rate I need it.

[+nfa]

Hi,

 

I've tried a number of the different hydration systems/packs, and have two general complaints about all of them:

• they're expensive
  
• the hoses tend to leak at one end or the other at some point
  

What I like is a regular nalgene bottle (16 ounces), and, and nalgene collapsible canteen. It holds 96 ounces, stands up for filling, has a wide-mouth for ice-cubes, is leakproof until the end of time, rolls up to almost nothing when empty, and costs...$8.95. You can buy a hose for it if you really want, but I didn't; I drink from the nalgene bottle, and refill it as needed from the canteen.

 

you can get it at Campmor.

 

It is at the far right in the picture below.

 

 

nfa

[+Runaround]

If your pack didn't come with one of those insulated sleeves for the tube, get one. Nothing is worse than first mouthful of hot water from the tube that's on your shoulder in the sun.

[+nfa]

If your pack didn't come with one of those insulated sleeves for the tube, get one. Nothing is worse than first mouthful of hot water from the tube that's on your shoulder in the sun.

or trying to thaw out the frozen tube in winter-time (maybe that's just and Adirondacks thing...

 

nfa

[thorin]

Great source here:

 

MEC: Hydration Packs

 

Great info here:

 

OutDoorReview.com: Hydration Packs

 

Further to NFA's suggestion(s). Nalgene bottles can also screw directly to the bottom of most hand pump water filters (like those from MSR), which is very handy on multi-day or overnight trips.

 

Thorin

Edited September 3, 2004 by thorin

[+Jamie Z]

In preparation for my first weekend backpacking trip, I tripped to Memphis' idea of an outdoor store, Bass Pro Shops, yesterday. I had intended to purchase a 2L Platypus resevoir for my hydration-ready Lowe-Alpine pack based on experience I've read on the geocaching site.

 

There, they had Camelbak, Platypus, and Kelty hydration bags. The Kelty seemed exactly the right shape for my pack, and it was the cheapest too, so I entered into an experiment to see how this thing works.

 

When I get back next week, I'll have a report.

 

Jamie

[+Strapped-4-Cache]

Don't overlook the department stores out there. I've found several Camelback knock-offs made by Outdoor Trails(?) at Target, They have packs that are identical to H.A.W.G.s and Mules, as well as smaller fanny-pack type hydration packs. They even had a full-size backpack with hydration bladder that I haven't seen in the Camelback line.

 

I compared the knockoff I bought to the Camelback and was impressed that it was identical to the name brand in every way except the color. The stiching was tight, the pack felt the same when shouldered, and it would hold the 3 liter Platypus or Camelback Omega reservoirs with no problems.

 

For a $19.99 investment I feel I got a great savings over the $60+ that was being asked for the Camelback.

 

S-4-C

[thorin]

There's a good long thread on CamelBack's and Hydraion Packs here

 

Thorin

[+QuickKarl]

check this site good deals http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/s...mberId=12500226

bronz

[+TroutGuy78]

I use the camel-bak Peak Bagger. This is the size of a normal pack but has several pockets and can compress down if your bag isn't as full.

 

I love it and find that other than the sleeping bag i can pack several days worth of supplies in it plus, a lot of useless crap, 2-32oz nalgene bottles and an extra 100oz bladder.

 

Runs about 100$ in most retail stores, slightly less online.

 

It has a true backpack style waist belt and a cnest strap. VERY GOOD PACK. Well worth the price and if you want the best there is nothing better in my op.

I agree with the peak bagger. It's very roomy. Search for it at www.rei.com

It's about $100, but you'll get your dividend return if you're a member of REI

and if you decide you don't like it or have any bladder problems (with the bag that is!)

you can return it. I love REI!

[+Scoobie10]

I use this.

 

 

I've written a little review of it on my website.

 

Scoob

[sgt cache]

I have 6 different CamelBaks. All i got from the military or from the military exchange. 3 are desert camo (as I just returned from IRAQ), and the others are green or green camo. I have them from 50oz to 3L. All in all, i like my MULE 3L for long caches. It has a 3L capacity, and a few little pockets for things like GPS food, flashlight (and food), etc...

 

sgt cache

[+AtoZ]

Best buys are at www.sierratradingpost.com or www.reioutlet.com. You should find one that mets your need and save some money for batteries. Yur save from 30 to 70% FROM THESE FOLKS. With lifetime guarantee regardless of the manufactuer.

cheer

Edited September 3, 2004 by AtoZ

[+TotemLake]

You've seen mine, Shunra. I have an REI Alpine 3100ci hydration ready backpack. I bought the 100oz Camelbak Unbottle because the sleeve the bladder is in is also an insulator, keeping the cool water cool. To add to it, I have the First Need water purifier. It can attach directly to Nalgene bottles, or you can buy an extra hose kit that will allow you to direct connect it to the bladder hose and pump it straight in without taking it out of the backpack or taking the backpack off.

[+Night Stalker]

I got my peak bagger on Ebay for $85.00 and free shipping, but I agree that I need to upgrade to an insulated tube. This will cost about $13 at Sportsmans Warehouse. It will be worth the price.

 

[+mbrownjer]

Further to NFA's suggestion(s). Nalgene bottles can also screw directly to the bottom of most hand pump water filters (like those from MSR), which is very handy on multi-day or overnight trips.

 

Thorin

Thorin had the right idea. Get something that is compatible with your filter system. If you don't have a filter system, think about getting one if you are doing hikes of any distance. MSR has great water bladders that work well.

 

Another thing to consider is how easily they are cleaned. Get something with a wide opening into which you can fit a cleaning brush or rag, and which will allow the bag to dry completely. I've had to throw away a couple of the platypus bags that did not completely dry and and became moldy. (Even bleach solution didn't work well once the mold appeared. ) One good thing about the platypus containers, though, is that they are relatively stiff and will hold their shape in a pack that does not have a designated water compartment.

 

For shorter hikes I usually carry a nalgene bottle. For longer ones and backpacking, I use both the nalgene and an extra MSR bladder. I just like drinking from the bottle insead of the sip tube, especially since they made the inserts that allow you to drink from the bottle without spilling it all over the front of your shirt ..

[trashcann]

The wide openings are important if you want to put ice cubes in them right before the hike instead of having to put the whole bladder in the freezer the night before.

[+planetrobert]

If your pack didn't come with one of those insulated sleeves for the tube, get one.  Nothing is worse than first mouthful of hot water from the tube that's on your shoulder in the sun.

or trying to thaw out the frozen tube in winter-time (maybe that's just and Adirondacks thing...

 

nfa

i have that problem when i go snowboarding or hiking in the winter all the time. deffinatly bytes.

[+Rogue_monkey]

just to get a little off topic here.

 

when carrying nalgens in the winter. carry them upside down. the top will freeze but when you turn it over to drink. you get water no need to chip the top layer of ice.

 

Just my two cents.

 

back on topic. thats a good idea about the insulated hose. i don't have one and at times whish i did. its hard to keep them from freezing

[+evergreenhiker!]

I shun away from Hydration packs. I've heard that leaks can develop and that could be disastrous...wetting your gear, etc. Others mentioned freezing of tubes in cold climates.

 

I carry a water filter with me and 4 water bottles in the pack and one strapped around my neck. I've learned to sip water before I'm thirsty. I like to do this at start of hike and periodically after that...shorter or longer depending on steepness of trail and how hot it is.

 

But I know people who are happy wiht them.

[+Cache Viking]

I have owned several Camelbacks and love them for Hiking, Skiing and Mountain Biking. I do not weem to have the taste problem others seem to with the Camel Back Bladders. I have 4 bladders that I rotate into use and they each have their own drying device they hang on. I have also noticed the newer Camelback bladders are much better than the ones I purchased 8 years ago.

 

You might also check out these threads

 

Camelback Packs, Plastic taste

 

and

 

Camelback issue

[+briansnat]

Hi,

 

I've tried a number of the different hydration systems/packs, and have two general complaints about all of them:

• they're expensive
  
• the hoses tend to leak at one end or the other at some point
  

What I like is a regular nalgene bottle (16 ounces),...

Not sure what you consider expensive, but the Platypus bladder and hose comes to about $20. I yet to have the valve leak and mine are over 2 years old...and probably closer to 3. My old Camelbak valve did leak after a few weeks, but I believe they've been redesigned since I purchased my Camelbak.

 

Freezing lines is an issue in winter even in NJ. To avoid this, I clear the line with puff of air after taking a sip.

[+planetrobert]

My old Camelbak valve did leak after a few weeks, but I believe they've been redesigned since I purchased my Camelbak.

i have 3 and have been using them for over 2.5 years and never had a leak. well 1 of then, the other 2 i got recently

[4x4van]

I use a medium-sized hydro-pack made by Outdoor Products. Good quality, inexpensive, lots of pockets/storage, 2 liters. Never leaked, large opening for filling. Check out Outdoor Products Got mine at Big 5 sporting goods. Just another alternative.

Edited September 9, 2004 by 4x4van

[+BlueDeuce]

Don't overlook the department stores out there. I've found several Camelback knock-offs made by Outdoor Trails(?) at Target, They have packs that are identical to H.A.W.G.s and Mules, as well as smaller fanny-pack type hydration packs. They even had a full-size backpack with hydration bladder that I haven't seen in the Camelback line.

 

I compared the knockoff I bought to the Camelback and was impressed that it was identical to the name brand in every way except the color. The stiching was tight, the pack felt the same when shouldered, and it would hold the 3 liter Platypus or Camelback Omega reservoirs with no problems.

 

For a $19.99 investment I feel I got a great savings over the $60+ that was being asked for the Camelback.

 

S-4-C

I brought the backpack for my 8 year old daughter (She really only does serious hiking a couple times a season) and it does seem to be of fairly decent quality. I didn’t notice any funny tasting water and it is designed with many of the same features as the more expensive models, all the way down to the bite valve. Time will tell, but I bet it’ll last for years for how we’ll use it.

[+C&C+COMPANY]

I was a sporting goods manager, and the one cool thing about the camelback is that the reservoirs are burstproof. All you really need is the reservoir itself, if you buy that just place it into you pack and you have the samething.

[Jeremy]

Personally I own the CamelBak Rim Runner which is my first hydration pack, and I love it. I drink a lot of water so I also have a Katadyn Hiker Filter for refills on the trail.

 

If I did it again I'd probably upgrade to the Peak Bagger since it has a better waist strap.

 

It's well worth the cost. I tried using Nalgene bottles but having the tube for quick sips on the trail is well worth it. I don't freeze my water but leave it in the fridge overnight. In the Pacific Northwest it stays cold all day.

[Zoptrop]

Jumping in kinda of late here... but I've used CamelBak with no leaks, drips, runs, or errors. Also have an "off-brand" from PerformanceBike.com the "monsoon" or something (don't remember) that holds 100 oz and it is very comfortable.

 

As for taste/cleanliness I put the bladder in the refrigerator (stick it down in one of those drawers your never use) and don't have any problems with funk build up.

 

Would recommend that you stay away from the "Ice Bak" which was the CamelBak with no insulation on the part between you and the bladder (only thin material). The concept was to keep you cool, but they forgot that you are also heating up the water as you stay cool.

 

I prefer "room temperature" water when biking/hiking. The cold water is harder to drink.

 

Look for wider shoulder straps and accessibility (pockets, zippers, storage compartments). Everything else is extra.

 

The benefits of using a hydration pack far outweighs the "risks".

[+CompuCash]

I have a bottled water holder that I clip on my belt pack. Do they make a hose attachment that replaces a standard bottle cap? I really don't want to have to deal with gunk, tastes, etc., when I can just chuck the bottle and grab another out the door or keep a couple in the car.

Edited September 10, 2004 by CompuCash

[+CompuCash]

no answers yet?

[+BlueDeuce]

no answers yet?

I think the problem with using a plastic bottle with a hose is that it wouldn't collapse very well, so you'd have to allow for an airway. But then it would leak.

 

Maybe one of the beer drinking hats?

[+CompuCash]

no answers yet?

I think the problem with using a plastic bottle with a hose is that it wouldn't collapse very well, so you'd have to allow for an airway. But then it would leak.

 

Maybe one of the beer drinking hats?

interesting thought - something I did not consider. So are all these water systems made from a bladder then?

[+Kealia]

I think they are.....

 

To add, my wife has been using a Camelbak-type by Outdoor Products. I've used it a couple of times now and it's great. 2 liter bladder, nice wide soft shoudler straps and a waist band.

 

Just ordered one for myself as well. I think "Ice Pack" is the model we use.

[+BlueDeuce]

I did a little searching and can find collapsible water bottles but nothing with drink hoses. I usually carry bottles too, I'll buy a case and just carry a couple in my fanny pack.

 

I guess you're stuck with the old lift method.

[+CompuCash]

I did a little searching and can find collapsible water bottles but nothing with drink hoses. I usually carry bottles too, I'll buy a case and just carry a couple in my fanny pack.

 

I guess you're stuck with the old lift method.

well I might experiment with modifying a cap with a piece of hard plastic tubing I can put the hose on and just make my own.

 

I am concerned with my ability to deal with a pack on my back. Broken back injury has me walking on a cane now - don't need something bumping and pushing, rubbing, etc. on it.

 

The reason for the hose is because of the cane I am one handed on the trail - gps on writst strap and cane in the other. So I drop the gps on the strap and then have to stop to drink. Put the cap back on - hook it back on the belt pack and go again. Not that stopping isn't probable the best think for me at the time (rest stop) anyway -but it FEELS like an annoyance when I could be walking along.

 

Well, just one of those things.

 

Target has a 2 liter system fo $30. Maybe I can let my wife carry it and just grab the hose when I need it - hhhmmm... - naw - ya think?

[+BlueDeuce]

Here ya go. Link

[+CompuCash]

here is a buyers guide that might be helpful

 

http://outside.away.com/outside/gear/buyer...ion-Systems&v=8

[Jeremy]

If you have back problems, I'd suggest speaking to your local outdoor retailer and see what options they may have for you. I inherited general back problems and it takes a bit for me to arrange the pack so most of the weight is supported by my waist instead of my back. Alternatively there are hip packs that may work better for you. Add a filtration system and you won't have to carry a large weight. I don't like to stop and filter water so I go with a larger load, but there are definitely alternatives.

 

I'm just glad we have all these choices nowadays. As a Boy Scout we were stuck with those heavy metal canteens

[LostDogCanada]

I've been backpacking quite a bit, and simply throw a Camelbak insert in the top of my pack. With a bigger pack, the Camelbak sits high up, so the water pressure shoots the water right into your mouth! You don't even need to sip (which admitedly isn't a hassle, but it IS fun shooting people with your Camelbak hose!)

 

My problem with Nalgene's is that there's rarely a very good place to hold them while you're hiking. While some packs have holsters on them, they're usually in an awkward place to grab. So you usually have to either take your pack off or get somebody else to grab your water for you. Either of these is usually more of a hassle then simply opening the bite valve.

 

If you are looking for a pack with a special holder for your Camelbak, a lot of the newer packs come with this feature.

 

LostDog

[+BadAndy]

I think they are.....

 

To add, my wife has been using a Camelbak-type by Outdoor Products. I've used it a couple of times now and it's great. 2 liter bladder, nice wide soft shoudler straps and a waist band.

 

Just ordered one for myself as well. I think "Ice Pack" is the model we use.

I also use a camelbak knockoff from Outdoor Products. It's the clone of the camelbak mule, at 1/3 of the price and every bit as good. Find them at target stores.