Are you wondering if investing in a hydration pack is worth it for hiking and other outdoor excursions? Or if there’s really much of a difference between hydration packs from different companies?
In this article, we’ve compiled a list of what we have found to be the hydration packs that stand out the most, and will provide the most value to you on your next hiking trip.
Let’s dive right in!
| Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack | OUTRAK Vapor Hydration Pack 3L | BlackWolf Tank Hydration Bladder 3L | Camelbak Rim Runner 22 Hydration Pack |
---|---|---|---|---|
Our pick | Best Value | |||
2L | 3L | 3L | 2.5L | |
430 x 200 x 100 mm | Not specified | 440 x 200 x 55 mm | 500 x 270 x 240 mm | |
BPA free, phthalate & PVC free polyester | Polyester & Polyamide | BPA and PVC free materials | Partially made of post-consumer recycled materials | |
?? | ?? | Lifetime | Lifetime |
Best Hydration Packs and Bladders Australia
Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack
Our Pick
Caribee is one of the top outdoor equipment retailers in Australia, and their products are generally high quality. The Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack is a decent choice for you if you often find yourself outdoors and are looking for a good quality hydration backpack that will last you for a long time.
Despite being about half the price of the Camelbak Rim Runner Hydration Pack, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at all the features and benefits of the Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack, such as how easy it is to clean.
Whether you’re a bit taller or shorter than average height, you’ll find that it’s comfortable and balanced to wear, due to its action back extreme padded harness system and chest strap.
There’s plenty of room to store your items in various compartments, such as your phone, towels, spare batteries, clothes, and even a packed lunch. Even if it’s fully loaded, the pack remains stable for all sorts of activities, such as long runs, hikes, or mountain biking.
Additionally, it has dual shoulder ducts to pass the hydration tube through, so you can run it through whichever side feels more comfortable for you. This is by far the best hydration pack for hikers of all experience levels.
OUTRAK Vapor Hydration Pack 3L
Best Value
One of the best hydration backpacks we recommend would be the OUTRAK Vapor Hydration Pack. In comparison to other hydration packs on this list, one unique feature that sticks out immediately, is the greater amount of volume it has for the same price point as the Caribee Quencher.
A major benefit that we found with the OUTRAK is how adjustable the sternum, waist, and shoulder straps are. In terms of comfort and suitability for people of all sizes, this is certainly one of the best options out there.
Let’s not forget that it has a 3L capacity, which is probably more than enough water for an average hike. More experienced hikers will probably want a hydration pack with more features, but this is great for anyone who just wants a convenient way to carry their stuff and keep their hands free, while being able to stay hydrated.
BlackWolf Tank Hydration Bladder 3L
Best For Portability
While you can absolutely purchase a full-on hydration pack that includes a hydration bladder, you also have the option of buying just the bladder, and placing it in a bag you already own.
After researching various products, we came to the conclusion that the BlackWolf Tank Hydration Bladder is the best hydration bladder on the market for hiking enthusiasts.
Be warned, however - even though it is listed for a relatively low price, a number of users have written in to say that the closing tabs were fragile, and broke within a very short period of time.
On the other hand, this bladder has a full length handle to prevent it from collapsing. It's attached at the top and bottom and not attached to the body of the bladder, which should keep it upright and prevent any blockages.
Since the BlackWolf Bladder has a capacity of three litres, it often doesn’t need to be refilled, which makes it a great option when you’re on the go. What really sets it apart from the competition is the fact that it has lines along the bladder, which indicate how much liquid you have remaining.
Camelbak Rim Runner 22 Hydration Pack
Honourable Mention