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Best Hydration Packs & Bladders For Hiking in Australia

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
Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack
Best Value
OUTRAK Vapor Hydration Pack 3L
Camelbak Rim Runner 22 Hydration Pack

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

Bladder: Thermo-welded Polyurethane

Polyester & Polyamide

BPA and PVC free materials

Partially made of post-consumer recycled materials

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Lifetime

Lifetime

Best Hydration Packs and Bladders Australia

Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack

Caribee Quencher 2L Hydration Pack

Our Pick

Pros
  • Easy to clean
  • Durable bladder
  • Front pocket is convenient for storing small items such as phones
  • Available in different colours and designs
  • Adjustable for your height
Cons
  • Some larger phones may not fit in the front pocket
  • Some users report a plastic taste from the bladder, even after multiple washes

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

OUTRAK Vapor Hydration Pack 3L

Best Value

Pros
  • Lightweight construction
  • Padded back panel
  • Ideal for walking and exercising
  • Large storage compartment
Cons
  • Some users report that the bladder came stuck together and could not be filled easily
  • Some users report that the bottom clip was faulty
  • The water bladder can be hard to dry out

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

BlackWolf Tank Hydration Bladder - 3 Litre

Best For Portability

Pros
  • Tight waterproof seal
  • BPA and PVC free
  • Capacity lines along bladder indicate how much liquid is left
  • Fits snugly in regular-sized hiking backpacks
  • Handle can be removed in order to fit in a smaller bag
Cons
  • Some users report that both locks/tabs broke with first use
  • Some users report that water still has a plastic taste despite multiple washes

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

Camelbak Rim Runner 22 Hydration Pack

Honourable Mention

Pros
  • Six pockets in addition to main compartment
  • Can be adjusted easily, even with gloves on
Cons
  • Some users have found the actual bag volume to be 17L, and not 22L as stated.
  • No way to hang your own bladder from a different brand without some modifications.
  • Back panel is not as breathable as similar products
  • Waist belt has an oddly thin and unstable attachment