Best Hiking Backpack With Water Bladder
Staying hydrated can be a challenge for the avid outdoorsman and one that must be met. Dehydration can result in some very unpleasant symptoms like dizziness, rapid breathing, and heartbeat, even fainting. And if you’re active outdoors in hot, humid weather, your sweat doesn’t evaporate causing your body temperature to rise, leading to the need for more water.
At A Glance: Top 3 Hiking Packs With Water Bladders
- AVANTO Adventure Hydration BackpackMost Versatile
- Osprey Packs Skarab 18Best For Short Hikes
- MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration PackBest For Long Hikes
Most hiking and biking backpacks have pockets for water bottles, but that may not be adequate for a serious day trek. You need a hydration bladder, often called a water bladder. The choices for a backpack with a water bladder can get confusing because you’ll want to consider other features such as comfort, durability, value, and other features offered. This review will help you decide on a backpack with a water bladder to also meet your other needs.
OUR TOP PICKS
MIRACOL Hydration Backpack
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No products found. | Most Versatile AVANTO Adventure Hydration Backpack
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Best For Short Hikes Osprey Packs Skarab 18
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TETON Sports Oasis 1100
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OlarHike Hydration Backpack
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Gelindo Insulated Hydration Backpack
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Best For Long Hikes MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration Pack
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RUPUMPACK Insulated Hydration Backpack Pack
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ROCKRAIN Hydration Backpack
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SHARKMOUTH FLYHIKER Hiking Hydration Backpack
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Top Hiking Packs With Water Bladders
MIRACOL Hydration Backpack
The MIRACOL hydration backpack has inside thermal insulation and an insulated tube that keeps liquids cool for up to 4 hours. Use it for hiking, biking, running or cycling. This backpack is lightweight (1 pound) with military-grade durability.
The built-in 2-liter water bladder holds 68 ounces and is replaceable. It’s made of high-quality BPA-free EVA material and is FDA-approved. You can run the hose on both sides of the strap, and an extra plastic clip secures the tube. The water bladder’s cap is extra-wide (3.1 inches) allowing you to pour water easily or even add ice cubes.
A waist strap and chest strap gives good stability to cut down on bounce, and back padding adds comfort. Chest and shoulder straps are comfortable and breathable. Multiple pockets in various sizes provide plenty of space for all your other gear from a cell phone to an extra jacket.
Overall, the MIROCOL hydration is a good quality backpack for the price. It’s especially well-suited for shorter treks. For longer hikes, you may want one with a larger capacity, and the backpack is not waterproof. One great plus is its money-back guarantee.
Pros
- Good value for the money
- BPA_free water bladder
- Extra lightweight
Cons
- Not for longer hikes
- Not waterproof.
AVANTO Adventure Hydration Backpack
The AVANTO is an 18-liter backpack with a 2-liter removable water bladder that’s suitable for hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and other outdoor adventures. When the bladder is removed, you can use this backpack for traveling. Both the bladder pocket and the sip tube are insulated. Water will stay cold a few hours yet won’t freeze in cold weather.
Made of highly-durable military-grade 600D polyester, the AVANTO is compact, lightweight, and comfortable. The material is water-resistant and includes an inside waterproof layer. An anti-shock chest strap reduces bounce, and a waist belt adds comfort by sharing the weight from your shoulders. Straps are also adjustable to comfortably fit most frame sizes.
This backpack has two main compartments (one is for the water bladder) plus two front pockets to easily reach your gear. You can fit small water bottles for extra hydration in the open side pockets. Two zippered pockets on the waist belt will accommodate an iPhone 8 plus and your wallet. The main pocket easily holds a 15-inch Macbook Pro. Use the outside bungee cord system for carrying more stuff.
This high-quality backpack was designed by outdoor adventurers who test lots of different backpacks and came up with their own design. It’s perfect or one-day trips, overnighters, and action sports.
Pros
- Designed for heavy use
- Field-tested in extreme conditions
- Removable water bladder
Cons
- Waist strap not for larger frames
Osprey Packs Skarab 18
The Osprey Packs Skarab 18 men’s hydration hiking backpack includes their Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5-liter reservoir for plenty of hydration from trails to summits. The reservoir is easily loaded and protects contents from spills. A lightweight magnet on the sternum strap gives you easy access to water and features a magnetic bite valve attachment.
The main backpack is fashioned of durable 210D nylon double diamond ripstop and accents and base are of 600D packcloth. The classic rucksack design features AirScape open mesh over contoured EVA foam suspension and back panel for support, comfort, and good ventilation. The sternum strap is adjustable for added comfort and the hip belt is removable.
Other features include dual mesh side pockets and front daisy chain attachment points so you can carry extra items. It’s easy to access all your gear with the main compartment’s wide-mouth bucket-style opening, and a front panel bungee provides external storage. The main compartment is spacious, and the 18-liter Osprey can carry 25 lbs. comfortably.
Overall, the Osprey Packs Skarab has everything you need for shorter day hikes.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Water bladder holds 2.5 liters
Cons
- No laptop pocket sleeve
- Unsuitable for longer hikes
TETON Sports Oasis 1100
The 18-liter TETON Sports Oasis is a good choice for both day treks and overnight adventures. The 2-liter water bladder provides plenty of hydration, is durable, lightweight, and has a wide (2-inch) opening for easily adding ice and cleaning. The sip tube won’t kink, and the clever push-lock bite valve is cushioned.
A perfect fit means comfort, and the TETON delivers with an athletic cut that fits all frames with a high-density stabilizer, mesh covering, and comfort-taped straps, and waistbands. Chest straps work with the harness and reduce bounce. An air-mesh back panel keeps your back dry and comfortable, and a rain cover sewn into the bottom keeps the backpack, the roomy main compartment, and all your gear dry.
If you want to carry a laptop along, a 10-inch computer will fit inside the second pocket, and a smaller pocket holds your cell phone, keys, and wallet. A bungee cord system keeps your items secure. And more than 1,000 5-star reviews verify this backpack’s durability and quality of design.
Overall, the TETRON is a great companion for men, women, and children for hiking, camping, cycling or anywhere you need to bring along extra hydration, and the price is fair.
Pros
- High quality at a fair price
- Lot’s of 5-star reviews
Cons
- Initially gives water a plastic taste
- Long bladder tube hard to keep tucked in
OlarHike Hydration Backpack
The 2-liter BPA-free water bladder from OlarHike comes with a 100% leakage proof promise and is very suitable for all outdoor adventures. The bladder is high quality and made from EVA material and is FDA-approved. An extra-wide screw cap (3 inches) makes it easy to add ice. The bladder is fully insulated, and on hot days, you can freeze water in it. It also has a protective plastic bag around it. The hose lets you sip without stopping making the OlarHike also good for cycling. There’s also room for a second bladder.
Made of nylon fabric, this backpack is durable and comfortable. It has a breathable mesh back and padded shoulder straps, and adjustable chest strap. Multiple pockets give you space to organize all your gear, and two waist pockets hold your keys and other small valuables. Bungee cords on the front give extra carrying space. The OlarHike is still comfortable when fully loaded, and you won’t experience a lot of bounce.
Multiple pockets give you space to stay organized, and two waist pockets hold your phone and other small valuables. An earphone hole allows you to bike, hike, or jog to music. Other little features to appreciate include a small zippered pocket on the top and reflective strips on the front and back.
This is a nice-sized bag and a good value for the money.
Pros
- Good value, low price
- Room for a second bladder for extra hydration
- Earphone hole for music
Cons
- Side pockets too small for a phone
- Shoulder straps may be too long
Gelindo Insulated Hydration Backpack
The Gelindo hydration backpack’s hydration compartment includes a 2.5-liter BPA-free water bladder, a little more than some, and keeps water cool for up to four hours. It has a wide opening with a seal ring and is easy to fill and clean. The insulated sip tube gives high flowability and clips in place with a C-clip near on the strap near the loop. The system will keep you hydrated for an afternoon of hiking or cycling. You can pack sandwiches in the metalized insulated pouch.
This 18-liter backpack features a carrying system with breathable, adjustable shoulder straps and ergonomic concave air mesh back panels making it comfortable to carry even when fully loaded. The waffle weave cloth is comfortable, but there are no mesh airflow channels for ventilation.
Multi-storage compartments make it easy to organize your gear. The main compartment and secondary apartment are roomy enough for a 13-inch laptop and other necessities like a change of clothes, raincoat, and first aid kit. The front open compartment and the zippered pocket are large enough for a towel and umbrella. Mesh pockets on the sides provide storage for smaller items.
Overall, the Gelindo is a good hiking backpack for men, women, and children, and the price is fair.
Pros
- Space for sandwiches in the hydration pack
- Hold 2.5 liters
- Multiple compartments
Cons
- Not comfortable for frames over 6 feet
- Some reports of water bladder leaking
- No mesh airflow channels
MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration Pack
Sports enthusiasts love the military design and extra-large water bladder of the MARCHWAY hydration backpack. Made of 100% BPA free TPU, the leak-proof water bladder holds a whopping 3 liters. And if you carry less, a welded partition keeps the water from sloshing around. There is no top opening with a clip closure, but the insulated tubing has a stop flow valve. Sip hands-free easily with the. 360 degrees rotatable mouthpiece while enjoying the outdoor sports you love.
Streamlined and with a compact design, the backpack is made of durable 1000 Denier water repellent nylon with strong military-grade webbing. The SBS-brand zipper is solid and long-lasting. As for comfort, the air mesh increases air-flow to keep your back cool, and the shoulder straps padded with Memory foam. Although the padding is thin, it is breathable. Chest, waist, and shoulder straps adjust for comfort.
Although the volume isn’t listed, reviewers give it an average of 4.6 stars for storage capacity.
Two front compartments hold extra clothes, toiletries, and more, and the MOLLE suspension system is expandable for more gear. Store your phone, keys, wallet, and other small items in the lower pocket.
Overall, the MARCHWAY is a durable backpack for a good price and provides plenty of hydration for all outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Fully washable fabric
- 3-liter water bladder provides great hydration
- 4.4-star reviews for durability
Cons
- Push/pull valve difficult to operate
- No top opening with clip closure
RUPUMPACK Insulated Hydration Backpack Pack
The 18-liter RUPUMPACK is extra-lightweight at 1.4 pounds and perfect for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor sports. The 2.5-liter water bladder is BPA-free. A large opening (3.4-inches) makes adding ice and cleaning easy. The insulation layer is made of high-quality aluminum foil and keeps liquid cool for up to 4 hours. Use it as a portable cooler indoors or outdoors.
The RUPUMPACK is comfortable for men, women, and children, and is spacious enough for an overnight trip. The adjustable shoulder straps, waist straps, and back panels have ventilated mesh padding for a lot of comfort. Its made of durable, water-resistant nylon and the hidden zippers are heavy duty. A unique compartment design features a practical open compartment for your gear and two waist pockets for your phone and other valuables.
Lightweight yet roomy, the RUPUMPACK is perfect for a short day hike or as a quick overnight bag.
Pros
- Extra lightweight
- Water bladder converts to a cooler
Cons
- Back straps are a little long
- Waist pocket doesn’t fit larger phones
ROCKRAIN Hydration Backpack
Great for cycling, hiking, skiing and running, the ROCKRAIN has a 2.5-liter water bladder to give you hydration for 4-5 hours. The leak-proof bladder is BPA-free, and a black insulated sleeve protects the water tube.
The 18-liter backpack’s main compartment holds the water bladder, and two additional compartments give you enough space for other essentials. There’s also space to store a bicycle helmet safely and securely. Or, you can use the space for extra clothing. As for comfort, breathable mesh and air padding provide ventilation to help you stay cool on the hottest of days. The low-profile, compact design provides stability against wind resistance. The ROCKRAIN is water-resistant but not waterproof.
Overall, the ROCKRAIN is lightweight, comfortable, and a good value for the price.
Pros
- Compact design for wind resistance
- Comfortable on very hot days
- Great Price
Cons
- Bottom doesn’t fully open
- No pockets on waistband
SHARKMOUTH FLYHIKER Hiking Hydration Backpack
Specially designed for short day hikes and day trips, the SHARKMOUTH FLYHIKER lets you stay hydrated for all outdoor activities with a 2.5-liter BPA-free water bladder inside an insulated hydration compartment made of high-quality, thick aluminum foil material and insulated black sleeve to keep water cool for up to 4 hours. The water bladder is easy to assemble and fill, and a hook on the strap holds the hose secure so it doesn’t bounce while climbing or cycling.
Lightweight (0.95 lbs) and comfortable, the 15-liter backpack has shoulder straps and a back lining made of breathable mesh fabric. Waist straps lighten the load on your shoulders and help with stabilization and balance, and the chest straps are adjustable. Store your small tools, keys, and other small items in the convenient quick-access bottom pocket. The multiple pocket design makes it easy to organize your hiking equipment.
This backpack is lightweight, comfortable and fairly priced. A SHARKMOUTH guarantee lets you refund or exchange within 24 hours.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Easily assembled water bladder
Cons
- Report of a leaky bite valve
- Chest strap difficult to adjust
What to Look for
Backpacks with water bladders are great for staying hydrated during all your outdoor adventures. Choose one that will give you a good fit for comfort. Adjustable and padded straps are important. Some of our picks are designed for men, women, and children. Just make sure to pick one suitable for your body type.
Size and Capacity
Next, you’ll want to consider how long your hikes usually are. If you take longer treks, pick one with a larger capacity water bladder, and perhaps one with side pockets for water bottles to provide extra hydration. For overnight treks, it’d be helpful to pack a filtration system for endless water along the trail.
You can find water bladders with a capacity of up to 3 liters, and some have space for an additional water bladder. These are good for overnight camping. Smaller bladders are better for short day hikes. You don’t want to carry around what you don’t need. Look for one that reduces bounce and has features to keep water from sloshing around.
Features
Look for insulation for both the bladder and the sip tube. The bladder should keep water cool for at least four hours. Some of our picks have a special compartment in the bladder to carry along a few sandwiches, a good choice for longer hikes.
Other features to look for include ones made of BPA-free material and FDA-approved. You’ll want one that is guaranteed to be leakproof so you can return it if this becomes a problem. If you usually carry a lot of gear, consider the backpack’s capacity and organizational compartments.
Will you be using your backpack for multiple purposes such as for an overnight bag? Look for one with features that are useful when the bladder is removed. And if you can’t live without your laptop or iPad, our picks include a few for your electronics.
Price Range
The prices of our picks range from under $25 to over $50. Generally, you can find a medium-priced backpack with a water bladder that is of good quality. Keywords to look for are comfort, durability, water-resistant or waterproof, and a leak-proof guarantee. The PRO boxes can help you quickly scan for good deals.
Our Favorites
Best for Shorter Hikes
The Osprey Packs Sharab 18 Hydration Pack with a 2.5 water bladder is comfortable and spacious enough for short day hikes. It has mesh side pockets and an easy-to-access main compartment.
- Dedicated hydration compartment with included BPA-free Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir by Hydrapak
- A true rucksack with a wide-mouth bucket-style opening to the main compartment.
Best for Longer Hikes
The MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration Backpack is great for longer hikes and overnight camping allowing you to carry 3 liters of water and has two front pockets for plenty of gear.
- Streamlined and Compact Design: 19.7”x8.7”x2.6” in size. Ergonomically fits for your shoulders chest and waist. 3 straps are all adjustable for reducing bounce. Soft air mesh back speeds up air-flow and makes your back cool. Foam padded shoulder straps are extremely comfortable.
- Reliable Material: Heavy duty 1000 Denier water repellent nylon with superior wear resistance. Engineering plastic buckle is durable and impact resistant; Military grade webbing is strong, anti fading; SBS brand zipper is reliable and long lasting.
Best for Versatility
The AVANTO Adventure 18-L Hydration Backpack makes a good overnight bag when the water bladder is removed. The waist belt holds an iPhone 8 and a few other smaller items. You can fit a 15-inch laptop in the main compartment, and the bungee cord system lets you pack more gear.
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