Best Hydration Packs for Hikers (2023)

You are hiking in the heat and finished the water in your one-litre bottle. Thirst begins to grip your throat, and a mild panic sets in. You wish you had brought that extra water bottle, but you didn’t think you would need it.

Carrying enough water when hiking, regardless of the weather, is one of the most important aspects of your preparation. Staying hydrated when hiking is important. Hydration packs are a great way to easily carry water on your hikes.

Water bottles are simple, but they can be cumbersome. A hydration pack helps you carry more water, more comfortably. And, a hydration pack combines the hydration bladder with a backpack, which makes them great for day hikes.

A hydration pack is a convenient way to carry water while hiking. They allow you to drink without having to stop and rummage for a water bottle through your backpack. Usually they have a backpack with a water reservoir, a drinking tube, and a bite valve.

Some hydration packs also have pockets for carrying other items, such as snacks, first aid supplies, and maps.

A hydration pack is useful for hikers, because they allow you to carry and drink water easily while on the trail. Carrying more water can be particularly important when hiking in hot or dry conditions or planning a long hike.

Hydration packs can help you stay hydrated and comfortable during your hike, which can help you enjoy your hike and perform at your best.

There are several factors to consider when choosing a hydration pack for hiking:

Capacity: Make sure the pack has enough capacity to hold enough water to meet your needs. A good rule of thumb is to carry at least two litres of water during a full day hike.
Fit: Look for a pack that is comfortable and fits well. It should not be too loose or too tight, and should not bounce around while walking.
Durability: Choose a pack made of high quality materials that can withstand the rigours of the trail.
Easy to use: Make sure the hydration bladder in the pack has a simple and easy-to-use drinking tube and bite valve.
Pricing: Hydration packs come at different prices, so consider your budget when you make your selection.

There are many hydration packs, so what should you get? Some packs have integrated hydration bladders, while others need to buy them separately and place them in the special compartment.

We have selected 10 of the top hydration packs. Learn more below!

CamelBak M.U.L.E. – from £120

The CamelBak hydration packs are popular and the M.U.L.E. is a great range hydration pack for hikers and mountain bikers due to its combination of features and benefits.

Camelback makes several versions of M.U.L.E. hydration packs, depending on what you need. The capacity of the hydration bladder ranges from 1.5 to 3 litres. And the backpack capacity is 8 to 22 litres.

Some outstanding qualities of the M.U.L.E. include:

Large water capacity: The 3-litre hydration reservoir is enough to keep you hydrated on a full day of hiking or biking.
Storage: The pack has several pockets and compartments, such as a main storage area, a front pocket and several side pockets.
Comfortable fit: The M.U.L.E. has a ventilated harness and waist belt to distribute the weight of the pack more evenly and provide a more comfortable fit.
Durable construction: The pack has a durable fabric and a reinforced back that lasts on the trail.
Easy to clean: The hydration reservoir contains antimicrobial material to prevent bacteria from growing. It is also easy to get out and clean.

Overall, the CamelBak M.U.L.E. is a well-rounded hydration pack suitable for various outdoor activities.

Deuter Speed Lite 20 – From £85

The Deuter Speed Lite 20 is a backpack for outdoor activities like hiking and backpacking.

It has a volume of 20 litres and is made from lightweight materials to reduce its weight. Some features include a padded back panel for comfort; a front pocket for quick access to items, and side pockets for water bottles or other small items.

It also has a ventilation system to help keep the wearer cool and comfortable. The Speed Lite 20 has a main compartment and multiple pockets, including one on the front, sides, and hip belt.

The Deuter Speed Lite 20 is a lightweight and versatile hydration pack popular among hikers and runners. You will need to buy a separate hydration bladder to put into the special compartment

Some of the standout features and benefits of the Speed Lite 20 include:

Lightweight design: At just 490g, the pack is extremely lightweight and won’t weigh you down on the trail.
Comfortable fit: The pack has a ventilated mesh back panel and shoulder straps to keep you cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
Ample storage: The Speed Lite 20 has a main storage compartment and several pockets, like a front pocket, side pockets, and a zippered pocket on the hip belt.
Hydration-specific features: The pack has a 2-litre hydration reservoir with a wide opening for easy filling and cleaning. The drinking tube has an insulated cover to prevent the water from freezing in cold weather.
Durable construction: The pack is made with a durable and water-resistant fabric. It has reinforced stress points to withstand the wear and tear of the trail.

Deuter Speed Lite 20 FAQs

Is Deuter Speed Lite 20 waterproof?

The Deuter Speed Lite 20 hydration pack is not waterproof. Made with durable fabric, the Speed Lite 20 can withstand light rain. The pack also has a water-resistant zip in the main compartment, which helps keep your gear dry.

While the Speed Lite 20 may not be completely waterproof, it should provide some protection against the elements. If you are worried about getting wet in a rainstorm, carry a waterproof cover or pack your gear in waterproof bags.

What is an SOS label in Deuter kit?

The SOS label on Deuter products is a set of guidelines to help customers in emergency situations when they are out and about in the outdoors.

It’s a small label with an SOS symbol, which you can find on all Deuter’s travel bags, backpacks, and rucksacks. If you need help in an emergency, simply give your bag to someone who can help you.

Overall, the Deuter Speed Lite 20 is a lightweight and comfortable pack that is well-suited for fast-paced activities such as hiking and running.

Osprey Talon 22 – £120 (without water reservoir)

The Osprey Talon 22 is a popular lightweight pack designed for outdoor activities such as day hiking, running, and cycling.

It has a capacity of 22 litres and features lots of pockets and compartments for storing gear. These include a front panel pocket, side pockets for water bottles, and a stretch mesh pocket on the back for quick access to snacks or a layer.

The pack is made of durable materials and has a mesh back and shoulder strap for comfort. It also has a built-in rain cover to protect your gear from the elements.

The Osprey Talon 22 is a lightweight and versatile hydration pack popular among hikers and runners.

Some of the standout features and benefits of the Talon 22 include:

Lightweight design: At just 680 grams, the pack is extremely lightweight and won’t weigh you down on the trail.
Comfortable fit: The pack has a ventilated mesh back panel and shoulder straps to keep you cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
Ample storage: The Talon 22 has a main storage area and several pockets, including a front pocket, side pockets, and pockets on the hip belt.
Hydration-specific features: The pack has a 2.5-litre hydration reservoir with a wide opening for easy filling and cleaning. There’s also a drinking tube with a magnetic clip to keep it accessible.
Durable construction: The pack has a strong, water-resistant fabric. It has reinforced stress points to last on the trail.

Overall, the Osprey Talon 22 is a lightweight and comfortable pack that is well-suited for fast-paced activities such as hiking and running.

Salomon XT 15 – £90

The Salomon XT 15 backpack is a versatile pack suitable for various outdoor activities. It has a capacity of 15 litres and is made of durable materials to withstand wear and tear.

The pack features a comfortable, breathable mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps to help you carry your gear comfortably. It has lots of places to keep your stuff, like a front pocket for essentials and a side pocket for a water bottle.

The pack is hydration compatible, so you can easily carry a 2-litre hydration reservoir to stay hydrated on the go. The Salomon XT 15 backpack is a great choice for day hikes, mountain biking, and other outdoor adventures.

The XT 15 backpack is a high-quality pack with many features that make it well-suited for these activities, including:

Lightweight and compact design: The XT 15 is one of the lightest backpacks, weighing just over a pound. The low weight makes it easy to carry on long hikes and backpacking trips.
Comfortable and supportive fit: The XT 15 has padded shoulder straps and a hip belt to evenly weight the pack on your body.
Versatile storage options: The XT 15 has many pockets and compartments that allow you to store and organise your gear. These include a main compartment, a front pocket, and a stretch pocket on the side for items like water bottles.
Water-resistant fabric: The XT 15 is made from a durable and water-resistant fabric that helps protect your gear from the elements.

The Salomon XT 15 backpack is good for various outdoor activities.

Gregory Sula 16 – £120

The Gregory Sula 16 is a small-sized daypack suitable for various outdoor activities, such as hiking and travelling. It has a capacity of 16 litres and will last.

The pack has padded back and shoulder straps, lots of pockets and compartments, and a durable material.

The Sula 16 also has a hydration bladder pocket and a port for a hydration tube, making it convenient to bring water on the go. Overall, the Gregory Sula 16 is a compact and functional pack well-suited for shorter excursions.

The Gregory Sula 16 is a hydration pack popular among hikers and runners.

Some of the standout features and benefits of the Sula 16 include:

Comfortable fit: The pack has a ventilated mesh back panel and shoulder straps to keep you cool and comfortable, even on hot days. The pack also has a more comfortable fit for women.
Ample storage: The Sula 16 has a main storage compartment and several pockets. The front pocket, side pockets, and stretch mesh pocket on the hip belt provide space for your gear.
Hydration-specific features: The pack has a 3-litre hydration reservoir and a drinking tube. The reservoir has a wide opening for easy filling and cleaning.
Durable construction: The pack is made of durable fabric that is water-resistant and strong. It has reinforced stress points to last on the trail.
Lightweight design: At just 1 pound 6 ounces, the pack is lightweight and won’t weigh you down on the trail.

Overall, the Gregory Sula 16 is a comfortable and versatile pack that is well-suited for activities such as hiking and running.

Black Diamond Distance 8 – €140

The Black Diamond Distance 8 is a lightweight pack designed for speed and light backpacking, trail running, or alpine climbing.

It has a volume of 8 litres and features a minimalist design with only the essential features and no frills. The pack has a single main compartment, a front pocket for quick access to items, and two front pockets for water bottles or other small items.

The pack also has a stretchy mesh back panel for ventilation and comfort, and adjustable shoulder straps and hip belt for a secure and customizable fit.

The Black Diamond Distance 8 is a lightweight hydration pack popular among hikers and runners.

Some of the standout features and benefits of the Distance 8 include:

Lightweight design: At just 8 ounces, the pack is extremely lightweight and won’t weigh you down on the trail.
Comfortable fit: The pack has a ventilated mesh back panel and shoulder straps to keep you cool and comfortable, even on hot days.
Hydration-specific features: The pack has two pockets on the shoulder straps to give you quick access to your water bottles, so you don’t have to stop.
Ample storage: The Distance 8 has a main storage area and several pockets, like a front pocket, side pockets, and a zippered pocket on the hip belt.
Durable construction: The pack is durable and water-resistant fabric. It has reinforced stress points to last on the trail.

The Black Diamond Distance 8 is a light pack for hiking and running.

Osprey Stratos 24 – £145

The Osprey Stratos 24 is a pack designed for day hikes. It is made of lightweight materials and has a capacity of 24 litres, making it suitable for short trips or carrying minimal gear.

The pack has features to make hiking easier, like mesh back panels for ventilation, a padded hip belt, and multiple pockets.

The Stratos 24 also has a rain cover to protect the pack and its contents in wet conditions.

For hydration, you’ll need to buy a water reservoir separately. Osprey makes hydration bladders in various capacities, which you can find here.

The Osprey Stratos 24 is a popular hydration pack among hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Some of the standout features and benefits of the Stratos 24 include:

Comfortable fit: The pack has a ventilated mesh back panel and shoulder straps to keep you cool and comfortable, even on hot days. The pack also has an adjustable and padded hip belt to help distribute the weight evenly and provide a secure fit.
Ample storage: The Stratos 24 has a main storage area and several pockets. The front pocket, side pockets, and zippered pockets on the hip belt provide space for your gear.
Hydration-specific features: The pack has a compartment for your reservoir and a port through which you can slot the drinking pipe onto your shoulder strap.
Durable construction: The pack is made with durable fabric and has reinforced stress points to last on the trail.
Lightweight design: At just 1.3kg, the pack is fairly lightweight and won’t weigh you down on the trail.

Overall, the Osprey Stratos 24 is a comfortable and versatile pack that is well-suited for activities such as hiking and backpacking.

Camelback Rim Runner 22 – £114

The CamelBak Rim Runner 22 is a hydration pack for hiking and cycling. It has a capacity of 22 litres and includes a 2.5-litre hydration reservoir for carrying water.

The pack features a ventilated back panel to help keep you cool and comfortable, as well as multiple pockets and compartments for organising and storing your gear.

Made from durable materials, the pack will withstand the rigours of outdoor use.

Here are the top five features and benefits of the CamelBak Rim Runner 22 hydration pack:

Large water capacity: The Rim Runner 22 has a 2.5-litre hydration reservoir, providing enough water for a full day of hiking.

Breathable Air Mesh: The pack has a breathable Air Mesh back panel and shoulder straps to help you stay cool and comfortable even on hot days.

Cargo compression: The pack has cargo compression straps to keep your gear close to your body for better balance and stability.

Versatile organisation: The pack has many pockets, such as organising pockets, a zipped pocket, and a stretch pocket. The number of pockets helps keep your gear easy to find and accessible.

Sustainable materials: The pack is partially made with post-consumer recycled materials, making it a more environmentally-friendly choice.

The CamelBak Rim Runner 22 is a hydration pack designed for minimalist day hiking. It has a clean, technical aesthetic and a large water capacity of 22 litres.

The Air Mesh back panel and shoulder straps are comfortable, and the cargo compression straps keep your gear close to your body. There are several pockets and compartments for organisation.

The pack is also partially made with post-consumer recycled materials, making it a more environmentally-friendly choice.

Overall, the Rim Runner 22 is a versatile and useful pack for day hikes, with a focus on comfort and organisation.

Hydro Flask 14 L Down Shift Hydration Pack – £145

The Hydro Flask 14 L Down Shift Hydration Pack is a hydration pack specifically designed for outdoor activities, such as hiking and mountain biking. Some of the standout features and benefits of the Down Shift include:

Here are its top 5 features and benefits:

Suspended back panel design: The pack has a back panel held up by straps, so the water stays separated from your body. This separation helps keep you cool and comfortable on the trail.
Multiple pockets: The pack has a main compartment, a fleece-lined pocket for your phone or sunglasses. And a webbing hip belt, providing ample storage and organisation options.
Neoprene sleeve with reflective lining: The pack has a Neoprene sleeve with reflective lining, providing added protection and visibility.
Low centre of gravity: The pack’s short and stout reservoir design puts it lower back, which reduces its centre of gravity. The position of the reservoir makes it well-suited for mountain biking or hiking.
Insulated hydration reservoir: The pack has a 2-litre hydration reservoir made by HydraPak. It is insulated to keep your water cold for up to four hours.

The Hydro Flask 14 L Down Shift Hydration Pack is good for hot climates and outdoor activities where you need to keep your water cold. It is a streamlined pack with a subdued design that has appeal for everyday use.

The Down Shift is a good choice for hot days out.

Salomon Active Skin 4 – £70

The Salomon Active Skin 4 Hydration Pack is a popular choice among UK trail runners and hikers. It is available in a 4-litre or 8-litre volume.

Some of the standout features and benefits of the Active Skin 4 include:

Soft bottles included: The pack comes with a pair of 500ml soft bottles, providing a convenient way to hydrate on the go.
Storage options: The pack has a trekking pole attachment and internal storage options for gear and snacks, making it easy to stay organised on the trail.
Quick Link sternum straps: The pack has Quick Link sternum straps that allow for quick adjustment and enhanced breathability. These straps also allow for Salomon’s Sensifit construction, which conforms to the body and prevents vest bounce.
Comfort: The pack is comfortable. Its construction conforms to the body and prevents bounce.
Value-for-money: The Salomon Active Skin 4 is a great value-for-money option for buyers looking for a reliable hydration pack.

The Salomon Active Skin 4 Hydration Pack is a popular choice among UK trail runners and hikers. It has a 4-litre or 8-litre volume, comes with soft bottles, has storage options and features for comfort, and is a good value for money.

A good hydration pack is essential for hikers, runners, and other outdoor enthusiasts. They let you carry and use water while you’re active, staying hydrated and energised.

There are many hydration packs available, each with its own unique features and benefits. You can find the ideal pack for your day hike or backpacking trip.

If you want to stay hydrated and comfortable on your next outdoor adventure, consider investing in a high-quality hydration pack. Your body will thank you!

Hydration Pack FAQs

Are hydration packs good for you?

A hydration pack can be beneficial for people involved in outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, cycling, and more.

They allow you to easily carry and access water on the go, helping you stay hydrated and energised during your activities. This is particularly important in hot or humid weather, or when you are doing activities that involve a lot of physical exertion.

Also, a hydration pack can be convenient for people who are on the go and do not want to carry a water bottle.

Hydration packs can be a good choice for people who want to stay hydrated and comfortable while doing outdoor activities.

Which hydration pack is the best?

It is difficult to say which hydration pack is the “best” overall, because the best pack for one person may not be the best for another.

The best pack for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Some factors to consider when choosing a hydration pack are the size and capacity of the pack, the materials and construction, the durability and quality of the pack, and any additional features or compartments that might be useful to you.

You may also want to consider the brand and reputation of the pack, as well as the price. It can be helpful to read reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or other outdoor enthusiasts to help you find the right pack for you.

Are hydration bladders worth it?

Hydration bladders, also known as hydration reservoirs or hydration packs, can be a convenient and effective way to stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

They allow you to easily carry and access water on the go, and can be a more convenient option than carrying a water bottle.

Hydration bladders are particularly useful for activities that involve a lot of physical exertion, as they allow you to take sips of water easily, without having to stop and pull out a bottle.

Many hydration bladders are also designed with features such as bite valves and insulated tubes, which make it easy to drink from them without spilling.

Overall, hydration bladders can be a worthwhile investment for people who engage in outdoor activities and want to stay hydrated on the go.

Can I put a hydration bladder in any backpack?

Most backpacks are designed to be compatible with hydration bladders, and have a defined hydration bladder compartment or hose routing system that allows you to easily use a hydration bladder with the pack.

However, it is important to check the specific features and compatibility of your backpack before you try to use a hydration bladder with it.

Some backpacks may not have a specified hydration bladder compartment or hose routing system, in which case it can be more difficult or uncomfortable to use a hydration bladder with the pack.

Choose a backpack designed for hydration bladder use if you want to use one with your pack.