Never Go Without Water Again With These Hydration Packs

Whether you’re hitting the trails for a multiday trek or simply hopping on your trusty bike to get to the office on a hot day, having water accessible on your back helps you stay hydrated, healthy, and properly fueled to perform. And sure, you could carry your favorite water bottle, but it’s nice to have your hands free on the go.

That’s when a compact, lightweight, and comfortable hydration pack comes in handy. These are the best hydration packs for every kind of activity — and every kind of athlete.

The Best Hydration Packs

• Best with Storage: Gregory Nanao 18 H2O Hydration Pack
• Best Budget: CamelBak Classic Hydration Pack
• Best Vest: Osprey Duro 1.5 Hydration Vest
• Best Hip Pack: EVOC Hip Pack Pro Hydration Waist Pack
• Best for Commuting: EVOC Ride 12 Backpack
• Best for Women: Osprey Kitsuma 7 Hydration Pack
• Best for Trail Running: Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set Hydration Vest
• Best for Multiday Hikes: Osprey Mira 312 Hydration Pack
• Best Minimalist: Vibe Hydration Backpack

What to Consider

Before you invest in a new hydration pack, there are a few key features you’ll want to consider:

• Activity and Capacity: First, how much water do you need to transport? If you’re looking for something small and light that holds enough water to get you through a moderate hike or short bike ride, a 1.5-liter pack or smaller will do the trick. On the other hand, if you need to pack water for a full day or a strenuous activity on an especially hot day, you’ll want something with 2 to 3 liters of water storage. Some packs also have external pockets or straps for water bottles.

• Extra Storage: Next, consider how much additional storage you’ll need in the pack. Some hydration backpacks are big enough to hold your gear for several days of camping, while others are slim, light, and offer minimal additional gear storage space.

• Load: Weight also matters. Remember, you’ll be carrying the pack on your back, and it only gets heavier once that bladder is full. Choosing a lighter, slimmer pack will be easier to carry and a good idea for longer hikes and rides. Chest and hip straps can also help better distribute the weight of your pack for a more comfortable fit. The more adjustable the pack is, the more likely you are to find your perfect, chafe-free fit.

Hydration packs are a must-have for anyone serious about hands-free water intake, particularly while on the go. Our roundup explores the best packs for many specific needs, so you’ll never be without a cool — and sometimes, even potentially life-saving — sip, whenever you need it.