The Best Hydration Packs of 2021-1
1. Vibrelli Hydration Pack
Whether you're a multisport athlete or need a hydration pack for hikes, skiing, or running, the Vibrelli Hydration Pack is a versatile and capable hydration pack with plenty of space for all your needs. This pack features a bladder pocket, plenty of storage for snacks and emergency gear, and an adjustable bungee strap for holding a bike helmet or anything else you need to store.
The pack's 2-liter capacity ensures you have enough water for any activity or adventure. The tester only went through all two liters during longer day hikes. The Vibrelli has accompanied the editor on several cross-country ski excursions without freezing, day hikes, and endurance runs of up to 10 miles.
2. Teton Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Pack
The Teton Sports Oasis 1100 Hydration Pack is like the minivan of hydration packs: it's large enough at 18 liters to carry a full day's worth of food, water, and other necessities. While it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing pack here, it absolutely does the job and offers a rarely-seen amount of storage. It's also suitable for almost any activity and resembles a regular backpack while staying true to the signature hydration pack profile.
Adjustable anti-shock chest straps, shoulder, and waist straps, along with contoured pads in the shoulder straps, and a weight of 2 pounds already sound better than a regular pack. A 2-liter reservoir slides into a designated rear pocket and is behind one large internal pocket, two smaller front pockets; each has two zippers for easy access into the hydration pack.
3. MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration Pack
For a tactical look and function, the MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration Pack grabs attention. The hydration bladder and 3L pocket plus two front zippered organized pockets, adjustable shoulder, hip, and waist straps, and utility webbing on the front sum up its multi-functionality reputation. It is 1000 Denier water repellent nylon for any weather and military-grade webbing, durable buckles to withstand a beating, and strong zippers to keep all your gear secure.
The bladder has a small middle divider to keep it slim. The wide filling opening has a handle for keeping a firm grip on the reservoir while filling, and then the handle acts as a hook on the interior of the bag to keep the bag vertical. The 0.4mm thick TPU hose is flexible and more resistant to cold than PVC/EVA, making it a great option for the snow bunnies in the crowd. The bite valve has an on/off function, and the mouthpiece rotates 360 degrees, so you're not wrestling with the hose as your flying down your favorite black diamond. Be sure to browse our list of the best tactical backpacks for some quality storage options for outdoor adventures.
4. Osprey Seral Lumbar Hydration Pack
An ode to the iconic fanny pack style instead of a typical backpack-style hydration pack is the Osprey Seral Lumbar Hydration Pack. While not ideal for running, cyclists may prefer the ergonomic, angled waist strap closure system allowing the pack to hug the hips. The contoured lumbar wrap and compression straps keep the pack flush against the lumbar spine and limit bouncing. An AirScape back panel with thick foam and a central air channel allow air to continue moving. At the end of the day, you won't be cold with a pool of sweat drying behind the pack.
This small hydration pack is bigger than it seems, spanning the width of an average male's hips, leaving room for large pockets in addition to the 1.5L reservoir dedicated compartment. The hip straps have dual-zippered pockets and a magnetic bite valve attachment. An internal tool organization pocket in front of the reservoir holds necessities for trailside repairs or keeps the wallet handy for brewery hop rides.
5. Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack
There are serious trail runners who vehemently forgo hydration packs, relying on drop stations or others to feed and water them because of the ‘limitations' often associated with a hydration pack. The Mubasel Gear Insulated Hydration Backpack is an affordable, lightweight, minimal hydration pack ideal for stubborn folks who don't want to carry anything but need to carry something.
Weighing in at less than a pound, the bag is a nylon material with mesh back panels, adjustable lightweight mesh shoulder straps, and an adjustable sternum strap. For such a minimal pack, it still looks to be functional regardless of size. Pockets are tactically placed with the zippers running up and down the main reservoir compartment. A stretch mesh pocket is prominent for easy-grab items like energy bars or your camera to snap a quick photo.
6. CamelBak M.U.L.E. Hydration Pack
Camelbak is usually the name folks know in regards to hydration packs. An old model MULE is a pack that has seen me through years of runs, hikes, and festivals and still doesn't quit. The updated CamelBak M.U.L.E. Hydration Pack is not the best Camelbak for running but great for accompanying mountain bikers, cyclists, hikers, and climbers to the day's summit.
It's a good mid-sized hydration pack: not as large as the Oasis 1100 but larger than the previous Mubasel model with the combined 12L capacity with a 3L hydration bladder in the designated back pocket. The integrated tool organization features, front helmet and armor carry, and elastic pump loop make it an excellent hydration pack for mountain biking. Camelbak Air Director back panels have channels for cool airflow, and the ventilated harness keeps the weight distributed over the shoulder girdle and back while staying cool. Adjustable sternum straps and a removable stability belt around the hips allow users to find the perfect, snug fit.
