How to Choose a Hydration Pack for Cycling

Advice on Buying Hydration Backpacks for Mountain Biking

Mar 28, 2009 Helen Smeaton

Hydration packs come in various shapes and sizes. Choosing the right pack depends on where, when, how far and how often a rider typically cycles. Here's some advice.

A hydration pack is a backpack containing a plastic water bag attached to a drinking tube allowing easy on-the-move hydration. Mountain bikers prefer hydration backpacks to water bottles, more commonly used by road cyclists, as it allows them to carry more water, especially on remote trails where water sources are scarce and the nearest shop may be several hours away.

Which Type of Hydration Pack?

Basic hydration bladder with 1- or 2-litre capacity but no storage space. A light, low-cost pack useful for short rides where extra clothing and tools are not required.
1-litre hydration backpacks with limited storage. Lightweight packs with space for a few essential items for short rides in cool weather.
2-litre packs with additional storage pockets set the standard for most mid-length rides allowing key bike tools to be carried along with adequate water, snacks and additional layers.
3-litre hydration backpacks with medium to large storage capacities. These packs are designed for so called “epic” rides over long distances when riders need to be prepared for every eventuality. The larger water capacity is also essential for hot weather cycling when risks of dehydration are greatest.
Hydration fanny packs using water bottles are an alternative for those who dislike wearing a backpack but carrying capacity is limited to around 2 litres.
Hydration jackets are a new invention designed for bike racing where the hydration bladder is integrated into a vest worn next to the skin.

Women’s Specific Hydration Packs

Camelbak and other brands now produce hydration packs in women’s specific fits with shorter pack lengths and repositioned waist and chest straps to suit shorter torsos and the female form. Starter hydration packs are also available for kids.

Design Features to Look For when Buying a Hydration Backpack

Separate zip-able compartment for the water bladder.
Bungee cords on pack exteriors for quick stowage of windproof tops and other items.
Ease of filling the hydration bladder both before and during a ride.
Water tube lockout mechanism. Essential to prevent water loss when sitting down on the tube!
Breathable mesh liner on rear of pack to minimise body cooling through sweat build-up.
Separate internal and external pockets for easy access to bike tools, food items, extra clothing layers and maps.
Make sure the actual hydration bladder is included. Camelbak, the market leader always includes the bladder but some brands do not.

Hydration Pack Brands and Costs

Camelbak is the market leader in hydration and produces a wide range of hydration systems from basic bladder backpacks costing around $ 35 to 3-litre capacity all day packs like the Camelbak Mule at $ 90. Top of the range freeride packs over $100 even have storage for helmets and video cams. Other good brands to consider are North Face, Dakine, Deuter and Hydrapak.

Keep Hydration Systems Clean

Clean and sterilise the tube and water bladder regularly and avoid use of sugary energy drinks where residue can build up inside the tube and cause mould build-up. Pay special attention to the mouthpiece, which can harbour dirt and bacteria. Wash the pack exterior after a muddy ride.

Buying a Hydration Pack

A 2-litre hydration pack is a good choice for most mountain bikers as it can be filled with less water for shorter rides and will suffice for all but the hottest all day epic trips. Choose a pack with enough storage capacity to hold the items needed for everyday riding taking into account typical weather conditions and riding terrain.

Related Articles

Read our articles on Hydration Packs for Women and Hydration Packs for All Day Mountain Biking

The copyright of the article How to Choose a Hydration Pack for Cycling in Cycling & Mountain Biking is owned by Helen Smeaton. Permission to republish How to Choose a Hydration Pack for Cycling in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Camelbak Hydrobak Hydration Pack	Camelbak Hydration Bladder	Women's Specific Hydration Pack Camelbak Dream
Camelbak Mule	Camelbak Daystar Women's Hydration Backpack