Choosing the right hydration pack can make or break your outdoor adventure, whether you’re hiking, biking, or running. With so many options available, it’s essential to find a pack that balances comfort, capacity, and performance to suit your specific needs. In this guide, we’ve reviewed 9 top hydration packs, considering crucial metrics like weight, comfort, compartments, hydration bladder functionality, waterproofing, and durability. We tested each pack in real-world conditions – including short hikes in Seattle City Parks, longer treks in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, and even snowy terrain on Mt. Rainier – to provide honest, hands-on insights. Whatever your next adventure is, this guide will help you find the perfect hydration pack.
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Quick Picks for Hydration Packs
Look through this quick list of the best hiking shoes, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorites with in-depth reviews.
Best Hydration Pack Overall: Gregory Citro 24 H2O – Men’s / Juno 24 H2O – Women’s ($170)
Best Bladder: Gregory Inertia 18 – Men’s / Swift 16 H2O – Women’s ($110)
Best Mid-Size Hydration Pack: Gregory Salvo 16 – Men’s / Sula 16 H2O – Women’s ($200)
Best Small Hydration Pack: Camelbak M.U.L.E. 12 ($130)
Best Large Volume Hydration Pack: Osprey Manta 24 – Men’s / Mira 22 – Women’s ($200)
Best Hydration Pack for Organization: Camelbak HAWG Pro 20 ($170)
Best Hydration Pack for Trail Runs: Osprey Duro 15 – Men’s / Dyna 15 – Women’s ($165)
Best Budget Hydration Pack: TETON Sports Oasis 18 ($50)
Best Budget Minimalist Hydration Pack: Deuter Speed Lite 13 ($70)
What’s new
The Clever Hiker team has been running and hiking with all the most exciting new hydration packs on the market and comparing them against our go-tos. This list has nearly doubled in size with some notable additions:
- We added the Deuter Speed Lite 13L as another wallet-friendly light hydration pack as well as two Camelbaks, the the MULE 12 and HAWG Pro 20.
- Three Gregory packs now dominate the top end of our 2025 picks.
Hydration Packs Overall Testing Scores
View full testing results in our product comparison table and analysis & results section.
Gregory Citro 24 H2O / Juno 24 H2O
Best Hydration Pack Overall
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $170
Capacity: 24L
Weight: 2 lb. / 1 lb. 15 oz.(Citro/Juno)
Pros
- Light for the size
- Great hydration system
- Comfortable fit for most body sizes
- Spacious internal compartment
- Pockets for small items
- Secure magnetic hydration hose clip
- Breathable back panel
Cons
- One size fits all
- Not fully waterproof
The Gregory Juno 24 Hydration Pack excels in comfort, fit, and hydration performance, making it an excellent choice for day hikers, trail runners, and outdoor enthusiasts. We brought this pack on a winter hike out to Skyline Lake at Washington’s Stevens Pass. Its lightweight build, breathable back panel, and adjustable shoulder straps ensure a comfortable fit, even when fully loaded. The pack’s hydration system is user-friendly, featuring a leak-proof bladder and a strong magnet clip that keeps the hose in place. The ample storage, including deep hip pockets and a keychain hook, allows for easy access to essentials like snacks, phones, and small gear.
However, the pack may not suit those needing extensive storage or a more customizable fit as its single size might not accommodate all body types comfortably. Additionally, the outer mesh material could wear down over time with heavy use.
Overall, the Juno 24 provides excellent value for anyone seeking a reliable, lightweight hydration pack for short outdoor adventures and moderate hikes.
More: Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O Full Review
Gregory Swift 16 / Inertia 18 H2O
Hydration Pack with the Best Bladder
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $110
Weight: 1 lb. 3.2 oz. / 1 lb. 9.6 oz.
Capacity: 16L/18L
Pros
- Compact design
- Lightweight
- Top and side compartment for organization
- Easy to use bladder
- Great for light loads
- Specific hydration reservoir compartment
Cons
- No padded hip belt
- Limited internal volume
The Gregory Swift 16 H2O (and its men’s equivalent, the Inertia 18) excels as a lightweight, compact hydration pack, perfect for short hikes or biking. We took this pack snowshoeing around Lake Keechelus in the Cascade Mountains. It offers a comfortable fit for light loads with a well-distributed weight that minimizes fatigue. The hydration system is efficient. The sturdy bladder and an ergonomic pan handle both support easy hydration on the go. The pack’s 16L capacity provides enough space for essentials. Although, it’s best suited for minimal gear due to its smaller compartments and limited storage.
The pack is durable overall, but the mesh material on the shoulder straps and back may not be robust enough for extended wear. It lacks a padded hip belt and adjustable shoulder straps, which can affect comfort during longer outings.
Overall, the Swift 16 offers great value for those seeking a no-frills, efficient pack for short adventures. It’s ideal for active individuals who prioritize comfort and simplicity.
More: Gregory Swift 16/Inertia 18 H2O Full Review
Gregory Salvo 16 / Sula 16
Best Mid-Size Hydration Pack
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $150
Weight: 1 lb. 12.8 oz. / 1 lb. 11.2 oz.
Capacity: 16L
Pros
- Comfortable hip belt
- Supportive and breathable back panel
- Roomy main compartment for essentials
- Easy-to-use hydration bladder
- Quick-access top pouch with a key hook
Cons
- Limited sizing
- Non-adjustable torso length
- Not fully waterproof
The Gregory Salvo 16 / Sula 16 hydration pack excels in comfort, hydration efficiency, and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for short hikes, day trips, or active outdoor activities. We tested it by snowshoeing out to Gold Creek Pond in Washington’s Snoqualmie Pass and found this pack to be a favorite. Its standout features include a lightweight build, supportive framed back, and easy-to-use hydration system with a leak-proof bite valve. The hip belt ensures comfortable weight distribution, and the roomy compartments provide just enough space to carry essentials without unnecessary bulk. Additionally, the durable mesh materials and smooth zippers contribute to the pack’s longevity.
However, there are a few areas for improvement. The non-adjustable shoulder straps may not provide the perfect fit for everyone, and there can be water seepage through the zippers during heavy rain or the PNW’s wet snowfall in our experience.
The Sula 16 offers great value for those who want a reliable, no-frills hydration pack for short outdoor adventures. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a lightweight, compact solution for staying hydrated during day hikes or activities like biking or running. Although it may not be suitable for longer treks or extreme weather, it’s a solid investment for active individuals who prioritize convenience and comfort in their gear.
More: Gregory Sula/Salvo 16 Full Review
Camelbak M.U.L.E. 12
Best Small Hydration Pack
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $130
Weight: 1 lb. 4 oz.
Capacity: 12L
Pros
- Slim and lightweight
- Easy-fill hydration bladder
- Convenient top pouch for small items
- Deep and roomy compartment
Cons
- Limited hip belt support
- Limited sizing
The CamelBak M.U.L.E.® 12 Hydration Pack excels in its lightweight design, offering an efficient, compact solution for short hikes or active adventures. We took this pack on a winter hike up to Source Lake at Washington’s Snoqualmie Pass. Its hydration system is user-friendly, with a large mouth for easy filling and a secure hose attachment. However, the short handle makes it harder to fill the bladder. Plus, there isn’t a hook to hang the bladder inside the pack, so it tends to slosh around. Additionally, the magnet for the hose tip gets easily knocked off.
The pack’s top pocket is deep and well-placed for easy access to small items, and its durable fabric ensures long-lasting use in moderate conditions. It also offers good weight distribution, keeping the load close to the body. If carrying lighter loads, this pack is great. However, with heavier loads, the hip belt isn’t supportive since it is only a strap. The shoulder padding is minimal, which might reduce comfort over a longer hike.
Overall, For those seeking a lightweight, efficient pack for short, fast-paced adventures, the M.U.L.E.® 12 offers great value but may not be the best choice for extended trips or heavy weight use.
More: CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Full Review
Osprey Manta 24 / Mira 22
Large Volume Hydration Pack
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $200
Capacity: 24L/22L
Weight: 2 lb. 15.2 oz. / 2 lb. 13.9 oz.(Manta/Mira)
Pros
- Plenty of compartments
- Spacious internal volume
- Padded shoulders and hip belt
- Great for light rainy hikes
- Quick access hip pockets
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
- Hydration bladder more difficult to use
The Osprey Mira 22 Hydration Pack offers solid performance for day hikes and short outdoor trips, providing a well-balanced mix of comfort, hydration capacity, and durability. We brought this pack on the Skyline Trail on Mt. Rainier. The pack excels in weight distribution, keeping the load close to the body, which helps with comfort even when fully loaded. Its adjustable fit and breathable back panel enhance comfort – though, it may feel bulky for smaller users or those looking for a minimalist design. The hip pockets are a standout feature, providing easy access to snacks and small essentials, but the main compartment can be challenging to access when the pack is fully loaded.
The hydration bladder system works well, with a secure hose attachment and easy-to-use closure. However, some may find the magnet clip weak and difficult to use. It offers good weather resistance with a rain cover, but the pack is not fully waterproof.
More: Osprey Mira 22 / Mantra 24 Full Review
Camelbak H.A.W.G. Pro 20
Best Pack for Organization
CleverHiker Rating: 4.3/5.0
Price: $170
Weight: 2 lb. 14 oz.
Capacity: 17L
Pros
- Compact design
- Plenty of organization
- Comfortable hip belt
- Easy hydration access
Cons
- No adjustable frame
- Limited support in shoulder strap
The CamelBak HAWG Pro 20 100 oz excels in its compact, well-organized design while still offering ample storage and hydration for day hikes, short bike rides, and outdoor adventures. The 100 oz hydration bladder is easy to fill and offers convenient access through the side-entry system with a magnetic hose clip to keep everything in place. The pack’s durable fabric and breathable back panel ensure comfort and resilience during your activities.
However, it lacks an adjustable frame and has minimal shoulder strap padding, which can affect comfort with heavier loads. Additionally, the zippers aren’t fully waterproof, and the top pocket is somewhat shallow for bulky items.
For those seeking a practical, durable pack for short day trips or light gear, the HAWG Pro provides excellent value. It may not be the best choice for ultralight objectives, but it’s a great fit for hikers and cyclists who prioritize organization and hydration.
More: CamelBak HAWG Pro 20 Full Review
Osprey Dyna/Dura 15L
Best Hydration Pack for Trail Runs
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $165
Weight: 1 lb. 10.6 oz. / 1 lb. 11.5 oz.(Women’s Dyna/Men’s Duro)
Capacity: 15L
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable fit
- Easy access pockets
- Plenty of organization
- Insulated hydration hose
Cons
- Limited adjustability for torso
- Not waterproof
- Stretchy material not made for heavy loads
The Osprey Dyna 15L excels as a lightweight, well-organized hydration pack ideal for short runs, trail races, or day hikes. We took this pack on a trail run through Discovery Park in Seattle. It offers a snug, comfortable fit with soft fabrics that hug the body and breathable mesh to keep you cool. The pack’s numerous compartments, including easy-access hip and chest pockets, are great for carrying small essentials like snacks and a phone. The hydration system ensures water stays cool and leak-free with its insulated hose and secure closure.
However, the pack has some limitations. Its 15L capacity may not suffice for longer trips or those carrying more gear. The bladder is difficult to open, and the lack of a handle makes it cumbersome to fill up. The pack is also not waterproof. While it’s well-suited for short, light loads, the mesh fabric may not hold up well under heavier loads.
Overall, the Osprey Dyna 15L is a great value for active users seeking a compact, efficient hydration pack for shorter excursions. However, it may not be ideal for those requiring more durability or space.
More: Osprey Dyna/Duro 15L Full Review
TETON Sports Oasis 18
Very Affordable Hydration Pack
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $50
Capacity: 18L
Weight: 2 lb.
Pros
- Affordable
- Spacious main compartment
- Rain cover
- Multiple compartments for organization
Cons
- Bulky
- Not easy to use
- Flimsy hydration bladder
The Teton Oasis 18L hydration pack excels in durability and waterproofing, making it a solid choice for short hikes or outdoor activities in various weather conditions. We brought this pack on a local hike at Carkeek Park in Seattle. We like how the rain cover and waterproof design protect gear from wet conditions, and its thick fabric and strong materials ensure longevity. The pack offers good compartmentalization with multiple pockets.
However, its lack of a hip pocket and somewhat disorganized interior can make it difficult to access smaller items quickly. The hydration bladder is functional but lacks a handle and features a difficult-to-use Velcro attachment, which could be a frustration for some users.
While the pack is a bit bulky for its size and feels heavy when loaded, it provides ample space and good comfort for short trips. It’s not ideal for users seeking a lightweight or minimalist option. Overall, though, it’s a great choice for those prioritizing weather resistance and durability over ultra-light design.
More: Teton Oasis 18L Full Review
Deuter Speed Lite 13
Best Budget Minimalist Pack
CleverHiker Rating: 4.1/5.0
Price: $0
Weight: 13.1 oz.
Capacity: 13L
Pros
- Simple design
- Extremely lightweight
- Convenient top pouch for small items
- Deep and roomy main compartment
- Great for light loads
Cons
- Bladder not included
- Single main compartment with no organization
The Deuter Speed Lite 13 excels at providing a lightweight and compact design, making it ideal for short hikes, running, or biking where minimal gear is needed. We took this pack on a hike around Discovery Park in Seattle and its slim profile and breathable mesh back panel kept us cool and comfortable during this light activity. The deep top pocket with a key hook offers easy access to small essentials, and the main fabric feels durable enough for regular use.
However, the pack’s minimalist design comes with limitations, including a lack of internal organization and small side pockets that can’t accommodate larger water bottles. The lack of hip support and thin shoulder straps don’t suit heavier loads, and the absence of a hydration bladder and a rain cover are also drawbacks.
This isn’t the best hydration pack if you need advanced features or heavy-duty durability. However, it remains a solid option for those seeking a budget-friendly, lightweight pack for short adventures and casual day trips.
More: Deuter Speed Lite 13 Full Review
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | CleverHiker Rating | Price | Capacity | Weight | Comfort & Fit | Hydration System | Compartments | Weather Resistance | Durability | Weight Score | 0 |
Gregory Citro 24 H2O / Juno 24 H2O View Men's Citro at REI View Women's Juno at REI 
|
4.8/5.0 | $170 | 24L | 2 lb. / 1 lb. 15 oz. (Citro/Juno) | 5.0 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 1 |
Gregory Swift 16 / Inertia 18 H2O View Women's View Men's |
4.7/5.0 | $110 | 16L/18L | 1 lb. 3.2 oz. / 1 lb. 9.6 oz. | 4.6 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 2 |
Gregory Salvo 16 / Sula 16 View Women's View Men's
|
4.6/5.0 | $150 | 16L | 1 lb. 12.8 oz. / 1 lb. 11.2 oz. | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.5 | 3 |
Camelbak M.U.L.E. 12 View at REI View at Amazon |
4.5/5.0 | $130 | 12L | 1 lb. 4 oz. | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4 |
Osprey Manta 24 / Mira 22 View Manta (Men's) View Mira (Women's) |
4.5/5.0 | $200 | 24L/22L | 2 lb. 15.2 oz. / 2 lb. 13.9 oz. (Manta/Mira) | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.7 | 5 |
Camelbak H.A.W.G. Pro 20 View at REI View at Amazon |
4.3/5.0 | $170 | 17L | 2 lb. 14 oz. | 4.1 | 4.2 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 3.5 | 6 |
TETON Sports Oasis 18 View at Amazon |
4.2/5.0 | $50 | 18L | 2 lb. | 3.8 | 3.2 | 4.3 | 4.9 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 7 |
Deuter Speed Lite 13 View at REI: View at Amazon: 
|
4.1/5.0 | $0 | 13L | 13.1 oz. | 4.8 | 3.4 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 3.0 | 5.0 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
At CleverHiker, we take a hands-on, real-world approach to gear testing to ensure our reviews are both thorough and reliable. We tested each of the hydration packs on a variety of hikes, ranging from short walks at Seattle’s Discovery Park to more challenging treks in the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, and even in snowy conditions at Mt. Rainier. Our goal was to evaluate key metrics that matter most to outdoor enthusiasts: weight, comfort and fit, compartments, hydration system, waterproofing, and durability.
Comfort & Fit
Comfort might be the single most important aspect to buying a hydration pack. We assessed comfort and fit by wearing each hydration pack during a variety of hikes, ranging from quick walks to longer, more strenuous treks. We focused on how well each pack distributed weight, the adjustability of straps, and overall body fit. For packs with adjustable features like shoulder straps, hip belts, and torso length, we tested their flexibility to accommodate different body types. We also paid attention to how each pack felt when loaded, especially over longer distances. We prioritized comfort as we evaluated how the packs prevented soreness, rubbing, or discomfort during extended use. This hands-on approach helped us determine which packs offer the best, most comfortable fit for a wide range of hikers.
Hydration System
We assessed each hydration system by testing ease of use, leak prevention, and overall functionality. We filled the bladders to capacity, checked their fit within the packs, and evaluated how easy it was to attach and detach hoses. We paid special attention to bladder features like mouth openings, seals, and any added design elements, such as magnets to clip the hose or types of handles designed to make filling the bladders more ergonomic. We also tested the bladders in motion, assessing how well the water flow functioned during hikes and ensuring there were no leaks or discomfort when drinking. Overall, we prioritized hydration systems that were reliable and user-friendly in all conditions.
Compartments
We evaluated the compartments by testing their organization, accessibility, and overall functionality during hikes. We focused on how easy it was to access both small and larger items, from snacks and phones to water bottles. We assessed the number of compartments and how they were arranged, noting whether they provided enough organization without being overly complicated. We looked at hip belt pockets, side pockets for water bottles, top pockets for phones and snacks, and if there was an additional compartment for the water bladder. Ultimately, we looked for packs that offered convenient, well-organized storage for all essentials.
Weather Resistance
At CleverHiker, we assessed waterproofing by simulating real-world conditions, testing each pack under various environmental stressors. We ran water directly over each pack for a minimum of 30 seconds to see how it handled exposure to heavy rain. We focused on the performance of zippers, seams, and the pack’s overall material, checking for areas where water might seep through. We also tested any built-in rain covers to see how effective they were in keeping gear dry. Packs with waterproof coatings, well-sealed zippers, or integrated rain covers earned high marks, while those with weaker protection—especially in the hydration system—received lower scores for their ability to keep contents dry.
Durability
At CleverHiker, we assessed waterproofing by simulating real-world conditions, testing each pack under various environmental stressors. We ran water directly over each pack for a minimum of 30 seconds to see how it handled exposure to heavy rain. We focused on the performance of zippers, seams, and the pack’s overall material, checking for areas where water might seep through. We also tested any built-in rain covers to see how effective they were in keeping gear dry. Packs with waterproof coatings, well-sealed zippers, or integrated rain covers earned high marks, while those with weaker protection—especially in the hydration system—received lower scores for their ability to keep contents dry.
Weight Rating
At CleverHiker, we assessed waterproofing by simulating real-world conditions, testing each pack under various environmental stressors. We ran water directly over each pack for a minimum of 30 seconds to see how it handled exposure to heavy rain. We focused on the performance of zippers, seams, and the pack’s overall material, checking for areas where water might seep through. We also tested any built-in rain covers to see how effective they were in keeping gear dry. Packs with waterproof coatings, well-sealed zippers, or integrated rain covers earned high marks, while those with weaker protection—especially in the hydration system—received lower scores for their ability to keep contents dry.
Why Trust CleverHiker
At CleverHiker, we know how challenging it can be to find reliable gear advice. Gear Analyst Cherlyn Eliza has hiked over 3000 miles in Washington state alone and has backpacked all over the US and abroad on rugged terrain like the Dolomites and summited volcanoes in New Zealand and Washington. Her outdoor experience gives her insight into all the key aspects to look for in a hydration pack. She personally tested each of these hydration packs in Washington State – from local Seattle parks to rainy and snowy conditions in the Cascade Mountains.
Analysis & Results
Value
At CleverHiker, we know that value is a huge factor in deciding what equipment you end up buying that gets you the most out of your money. The Gregory Inertia 18 H20 is the best on the market in terms of a low cost but highly effective hydration pack. It’s got a great amount of space for a day pack without being too bulky or over done. Its hydration system is one of the best, and it comes at a lower cost than other models by Gregory, such as the Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O, which offer a little more compartment space for the extra value.
Another good contender beyond the Gregory packs is the CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12. It’s got plenty of compartment organization and is a little less bulky and heavy than the CamelBak HAWG Pro 20 100 oz.
Comfort & Fit
When it comes to comfort and fit, a hydration pack needs to distribute weight effectively, adjust to our body, and feel good on the trail. For longer hikes, the Osprey Mira/Mantra 22/24 stands out. It offers adjustable torso length and a breathable back panel, providing a customizable and comfortable fit for different body types. For short, fast adventures, the Osprey Dyna/Duro 15L is a top choice. It’s designed to hug the body tightly, making it ideal for runners. The Deuter Speed Lite 13 is a great second option for those looking for a smaller hydration pack for shorter adventures.
Ultimately, the Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O is the winner in terms of comfort. With a breathable back panel, adjustable torso, padded shoulder straps, and a supportive hip belt, it provides the best fit for long-distance hiking with plenty of space for gear.
Hydration System
When evaluating hydration packs, one of the most important metrics to consider is how well the hydration system works—specifically the bladder size, ease of use, leak-proof design, and the integration with the pack itself. After testing, Gregory packs are clearly the forerunners, offering user-friendly, efficient designs. The Gregory packs use a convenient hook system to hang the bladder in its own compartment, making all their packs stand out. Additionally, the Gregory packs have the strongest magnet to hold the hydration hose in place while hiking. It is difficult to knock it out of its place.
Specifically, the Gregory Inertia 18 H2O stands out with its large bladder and most ergonomic pan handle for the maximum support while filling up the bladder. The CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 and CamelBak HAWG Pro 20 also perform well, though marginally less ergonomic than the Gregory packs’ hydration systems.
Compartments
When evaluating hydration packs based on their compartments, it’s essential to consider not just the number of pockets, but also how user-friendly and accessible they are. Some packs prioritize storage space and organization, but others focus on simplicity for lighter, faster trips.
The Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O stands out with its well-organized compartments. It features a deep main compartment for larger gear and well-sized hip pockets that easily accommodate phones and snacks. Another excellent option is the Osprey Mira/Mantra 22/24 with a decent number of compartments, including hip pockets and a top pouch for easy access. On the other spectrum, the Deuter Speed Lite 13 is more of a minimalist design and offers primarily one compartment with a sleeve for a hydration bladder. It has a small side pocket, so it’s not great for carrying more than just the essentials.
Both the CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 and CamelBak HAWG Pro 20 offer the most internal pockets for organization. However due to its slim design, with a full bladder in the pack, it makes packing bulkier items difficult. As a larger pack, the CamelBak HAWG Pro 20 stands out more than the CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 with hip pockets and a few more internal pockets.
Waterproofing
When evaluating the waterproofing capabilities of these hydration packs, it’s important to look at how well each pack prevents water from entering, especially in rainy conditions. Some packs perform excellently in keeping water out, while others provide basic protection.
In terms of waterproofing performance, the Osprey Mira/Mantra 22/24 and Teton Oasis 18L stand out as the best options, with strong rain covers, water-resistant fabric, and well-protected hydration systems. The Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O and Gregory Sula/Salvo 16 H2O provide good water resistance but fall short compared to the Osprey and Teton packs in heavy rain. The CamelBak M.U.L.E.® 12 and Deuter Speed Lite 13 are adequate for light rain, but they’re not fully waterproof and may struggle in wet conditions.
Durability
When evaluating the durability of these hydration packs, it’s essential to consider the quality of the fabrics, zippers, straps, and overall construction. In general, all of the packs feel like they could last years of adventures. The Gregory Swift 16 H2O and Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O stand out by using 420D High Density Nylon for the bottom of the pack, which allows for even more rough handling. Similarly, the Osprey Mira/Mantra 22/24 uses the combo of 210D high-tenacity honey comb contrast nylon for the main pack fabric and 420D high-tenacity nylon for the bottom to accommodate more rough handling as you set the pack on rocky ground.
Another important part of durability is the zippers. The Osprey packs stand out the most in ease of use of zippers. The Gregory packs come in a close second with slightly more potential to snag on itself.
Overall, by a small margin, the Osprey Mira/Mantra 22/24, Gregory Swift 16 H2O and Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O hydration packs stand out amongst all the packs we reviewed.
Weight
When evaluating the weight of these hydration packs, it’s important to consider how each design balances minimalism with functionality. For a minimalist light weight option, the Deuter Speed Lite 13 is the best option. At just 13.1 ounces, it’s one of the lightest packs on the list, especially for its volume, making it an excellent choice for ultralight hikers or those looking for a minimalist pack for quick, fast-paced trips. For the best balance of weight and storage space and amount of organizational pockets, the Gregory packs stand out the best. The Gregory Juno/Citro 24 H2O is better for longer day hikes while the Gregory Inertia 18 H2O is best for shorter day hikes.
How to Choose a Hydration Pack
HYDRATION RESERVOIR CAPACITY
The liquid capacity of a hydration reservoir is usually measured in liters (L), and most hold between 1L-3L. Water is heavy (1L weighs approx. 2 lbs.), so it’s important to carefully consider how much you’ll actually drink and plan accordingly. It can be nice to have a larger maximum capacity for long days on the trail, but you don’t have to fill your reservoir to the brim if you want to keep your load light. You could also plan to refill along the way if you’re carrying a filter and know there’s a place to do so.
To estimate how much water you’ll need for an outing, a good rule of thumb is to carry .5L per hour for moderate activity in mild temperatures. You may need to dial this up depending on conditions and personal preferences. Strenuous hiking in high heat may call for 1L of water or more per hour.
ORGANIZATION
Many hydration packs are designed with a large top-loading compartment for storing gear and many also have additional pockets for organization and easy access to small items. The hydration reservoir itself often sits in its own sleeve against your back and the drinking tube comes out through a port in the top. We tend to prefer backpacks that also include a mesh pocket in the front to store things we need often while on the go, like a rain jacket, water filter, or map.
FIT
Most hydration packs are one size fits all, which is why there are different models for men and women on framed packs. Some packs have adjustable torso lengths and a hip belt that will comfortably fit a range of sizes. Make sure to try on multiple sizes if you’re on the edge of one size and another so the pack fits your torso length and width for the most comfortable carry possible.
If you’re buying online, it’s a good idea to measure your torso length and find your hip belt size so you can check the specs before ordering. Check out our How to Find and Fit the Right Backpack video for more details on how to measure correctly.
BACK PANEL & VENTILATION
Some hydration packs have a suspended mesh back panel, which allows for more airflow and ventilation so your back can stay cool, or at least air out a bit of that sweat. Out top favorites when it coms to packs with cushy but airy back panels include the Gregory Citro / Juno H2O and Osprey Manta / Mira.
Though the difference is usually minimal (your back is still going to get sweaty), many hikers find those types of frames to be more comfortable. Packs with simple back panel designs usually incorporate foam padding for comfort and add grooves to help with ventilation. Both designs work well in our opinion.
HIP BELT
A hip belt’s primary function is to distribute the weight of your pack to your hips, which helps alleviate strain on your shoulders. Some hip belts have pockets for easy access to items you’ll want readily available (snacks, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.) Unfortunately, we’ve found that most hip belt pockets on daypacks are a bit tight for a large, modern cell phone. If you take a lot of photos with your phone, you may want to consider adding an aftermarket shoulder pocket to keep it handy and protected.
Minimalist hydration packs generally have a simple strap that adds a small amount of stability or no hip belt at all. For full-day excursions where we’ll be spending a lot of time on the trail, we prefer packs with more structured hip belts.
STERNUM STRAP
Sternum straps, which clip across your chest, provide a little more load stability and are included on almost all newer hydration packs. Some high-end packs have magnets embedded in the sternum strap that stick to the bite valve of your hydration tube (Gregory Citro / Juno H2O and Osprey Manta / Mira). A magnetic bite valve keeps your hydration system within reach at all times and out of the way of your arms.
WATER BOTTLE HOLSTERS
Hydration packs are made to work with hydration reservoir systems, but they often have side pockets to hold water bottles as well. This can be helpful if you need additional storage capacity for long, dry stretches of trail, or if you prefer to filter water using a bottle rather than directly in your reservoir when you need to refill. However, for folks who are fully committed to their reservoirs, those pockets are excellent for fast storage and fast access to jackets, gloves, and poles.
Water bottles can be more convenient in some instances, especially when you want to bring hot drinks or beverages other than water.
WATERPROOFING
In general, it’s not a good idea to rely on any backpack for full water protection. Some hydration packs come with pack covers, but after enough use in inclement weather, they won’t provide full protection in prolonged rain. We recommend packing your gear in waterproof stuff sacks or Ziploc bags inside your pack. You could also line the inside of your hydration pack with a trash bag to keep everything inside dry.
HYDRATION RESERVOIR CARE
Most hydration reservoirs have polyethylene linings, which retain tastes and odors more easily than polycarbonate. Because of this, we recommend not filling them with anything but water. The best way to maintain any plastic water bottle or bladder is to rinse it out after each use and let it air dry completely.
If funky tastes or odors develop, try filling your reservoir with water, adding a tablespoon each of bleach and baking soda, and letting it sit overnight. Rinse well and air dry as usual. A cleaning kit (CamelBak / Gregory) specifically made for your hydration reservoir will make maintenance even easier.
Conclusion
At CleverHiker, we take pride in providing thorough, expert-reviewed gear recommendations to help you make informed decisions. After testing and evaluating multiple hydration packs, we believe the Gregory Juno stands out as the top choice for most hikers. Its blend of comfort, storage, and durability makes it a reliable companion on the trail. Whether you’re tackling a short day hike or a longer trek, we’re here to guide you to the best option for your needs, ensuring you’re prepared for any adventure.
