Camping Panda
When you’re out there in the wild – walking, running or climbing – it’s very important to stay hydrated. With so many options around, it can be tricky to find the best hydration bladder.
We’ve rounded up the 10 best hydration bladders in the market. Whether you’re looking for something that’s heavy-duty, sleek, affordable, pressurized, or non-pressurized, you’ll definitely find something that matches your needs.
Safety
Is it non-toxic?
Portability
Is it easy to carry?
Set Up
Is it easy to fill?
Durability
Is it strong enough?
Leakage
Is it leak-free?
Design
Is it practical?
Lifespan
Is it long-lasting?
Washing
Is it easy to clean?
16
Hours Researched
13
Products Evaluated
10k
Reviews Considered
3
Sources Researched
This military water storage bladder ticks all boxes for quality, functionality, and value, making it our top choice. With a diameter of almost 4 inches, it has one of the largest openings so refilling and cleaning is a breeze. You can easily pour in some ice cubes or insert a bottle cleaning brush!
The CHERAINTI hydration bladder is made of 100% food-grade materials. Therefore, it’s BPA-free, tasteless, and health-friendly. Additionally, the soft mouthpiece allows you to control the water flow by biting. Lastly, its ergonomic, portable design ensures the bladder fits nicely in your backpack.
What we like:
What we don't like:
A super affordable hydration bladder – this works well if you’re after a basic bag you can use for short walks and hikes. The drinking tube is insulated and easy to store. Additionally, it’s made of PEVA material which is pressure-tolerant and wear-proof.
The dust cover is a cool feature too. It means you won’t have to worry about getting your mouthpiece contaminated.
What we like:
What we don't like:
Ideal for heavy backpacks and longer journeys, the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoirs packs a punch for its well-thought design, durability, and premium features. The wide-mouth top opening means easy refilling and cleaning. Additionally, the hydrostatic backerplate holds its structure and keeps it flat even when full.
Unlike most hydration bladders, this one is made with highly durable TPU and a patented slider that creates a leak-proof seal. While it comes with a high price tag, you’re paying for the quality. You can be sure it’s going to last for a long time.
What we like:
What we don't like:
The leak-proof hydration bladder from LANNEY comes with a shut-off valve to prevent excess dripping. Plus, the mouthpiece is made of clear silicone so it stays clean. The tube is also detachable for easy cleaning and storage.
Apart from its very sleek design, the LANNEY hydration bladder has a quick-release connector for one-hand operation. So, even if you’re running, cycling, or doing other outdoor sports, a sip here and there won’t slow you down.
What we like:
What we don't like:
Another great item that made it to our list is this two-pack hydration bladder from HEIKLIN. We particularly love the soft yet durable mouthpiece that comes with an on/off valve.
Plus, it’s pressure-tolerant so you can confidently take it to some of your most challenging hikes. Additionally, the bag opening measures 4″ so refilling and adding ice cubes won’t be an issue.
What we like:
What we don't like:
Unlike the majority of the hydration bladders we’ve listed here, this one has a wide top opening, more like a resealable bag. It’s a pretty cool design as it makes emptying, refilling, and cleaning a lot quicker.
The quick- release hose connector is also an interesting feature. It prevents water from leaking when you detach the hose.
What we like:
What we don't like:
This hydration bladder from RESVIN gets high marks for its low-profile design, which makes it easier to pack and improves water flow. Other reasons to love this product are the wide opening, extra-long drinking tube, and durable construction.
Unlike most bladders, this one boasts of an adjustable bite valve. Just plug it in or pull it up to detach the tube. You don’t have to worry about leaks.
What we like:
What we don't like:
Stay hydrated while you hike, climb, or ski. The Aquatic Way hydration bladder is made of thick TPU plastic that is resistant to pressure and wearing. Plus, the bite valve can be turned to a 90-degree angle so you can drink wile staying active.
This bladder has a wide opening which makes refilling and adding ice no brainer. Also, it’s compatible with most backpacks including Camelbak, Ospery, High Sierra, and Teton.
What we like:
What we don't like:
What we like most about this hydration bladder from TruMod is the roll-top seal that gives you full access to the bag interior. Therefore, you can clean it well without fuss!
True to what the brand advertises, this bladder is easy to install, fill, and use. And since it’s made of lightweight and flexible material, the bag collapses flat for easy packing and storage.
What we like:
What we don't like:
Need more water for longer trips? This 3-liter capacity hydration bag fits the bill perfectly. The WACOOL hydration pack bladder boasts of 0.6mm extra thick liner and double-sealed sides for improved durability. Plus, the double-opening design allows you to refill in any condition. All these at a very affordable price!
This BPA-free hydration bladder has a glass-like interior so no sediment builds up. Plus, it’s treated with anti-mold agents so your water stays clean and fresh all the time.
What we like:
What we don't like:
Hydration bladder’s main purpose is to make drinking convenient and efficient. This means not having to get a bottle out of the pack and opening them to drink then having to return them in the backpack. This is quite a challenge when doing outdoor activities like running, hiking or biking and will consume time and energy that you’re trying to conserve doing the tedious activity. With a hydration bladder, you just have to pull out the tub and sip away. No need to worry about spills or bottle caps.
With such a demanding task to keep you hydrated, it may be taxing to decide which hydration to buy. This article will walk you through the considerations; capacity, type of hydration bladders and fit, to help you decide which is the best hydration bladder for you.
The primary function of a hydration bladder is to carry your fluid supply. One of the many benefits of owning a hydration bladder is the ease of staying hydrated, effortlessly. Hydration bladders are specially designed packs that carry a bladder full of fluid. The bladder feeds a tube, which is then led over your shoulder then clipped in place on the bag strap. The benefits of hydration bladder are significant, here are a few to note of.
These two are somehow interchanged on some occasions, so to avoid mishaps while on trial, let’s differentiate the two. Water bladders are meant to store water at camp or wherever you’ll be settling in. it is generally bigger in capacity and built compared to hydration bladders.
A hydration bladder has a drinking tube and is much sleeker than a water bladder. They are specifically designed to attach to a backpack via the clip assigned at the top of the bladder.
Bladder sizes typically vary between 1.5 liters to 3 liters. There are some day backpacks that cannot a 3L hydration bladder so it is best to check with your backpack too. However for most multi-day backpacks, the 3L can fit perfectly. How much water you should bring is really dependent on how much you drink when hiking, where’ll you be hiking (humid temperature makes us thirsty easily).
You can opt for a 2L hydration bladder like the CHERAINTI Hydration Bladder 2 Liter Leak Proof Water Reservoir for day trips or for when your camp has a clean water supply.
However, we suggest to get a 3L hydration bladder like the Wacool 3L Hydration Pack Bladder, if you hike all the time. Regardless if you’ll be day hiking or multi-day hiking. There is no hard rule that you need to fill in the whole capacity of your bladder. If you’ll be multi-day hiking, then by all means, fill it up. But if you’ll just be day hiking, you can fill up your 3L bladder with just 1-2 liters of water.
One of the key considerations in buying a hydration bladder. You would not want your water leaking in the middle of the hike and all your backpack is wet. Look for a bladder that is made of high quality plastic. Food grade or BPA free is a better choice to prevent any health concerns. Like the Laney 2 Liter Water Reservoir that provide you 2L of BPA free water.
Bite valve: Check the bit valve mechanism of your hydration bladder. Some bite valves twist to open and close; others have a switch to keep water from going out when you don’t want it to. The bite valve of the HEIKLN 2-Pack Hydration Bladder 2 Liters has an on/off option to keep water from leaking.
Clips: Clips are a standard feature on common hydration packs to keep your tube positioned for easy access. We like the magnetic clip of the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir that keeps the tube securely attached to the backpack.
Wide-mouth opening: wide opening allows you to refill the bladder easier, avoiding spillage. It is a great feature too when you want to add ice to your water. Cleaning the bladder to prevent molds from building up is also easier. Take a look at RESVIN 2-3 Liter BPA-Free Water Bladder that has a wide opening and extra long drinking tube. We also like the resealable bag design of WACOOL 2L Leakproof Water Reservoir, which can make cleaning and refilling a breeze.
It’s always important to assess your needs first before buying any gear. Hydration bladders range in prices, materials, and features. A pricey product doesn’t always guarantee that you will be satisfied. Consider the water capacity you need, your activities, terrain conditions, and other personal preferences.
There are several things you should look for when buying a hydration pack:
While CamelBak is pricier than most hydration bladders in the market, you are paying for the quality. It’s worth the investment if you’re after a heavy-duty hydration bag to use during strenuous activities outdoors.
However, you should know that there are other equally good hydration bladders that don’t cost as much, such as the CHERAINTI Hydration Bladder. Again, it all boils down to your needs and personal preferences.
Different brands require different cleaning methods. It’s best to read the user’s manual for the complete process of cleaning your hydration bladder.
Normally, these water bags can be cleaned using a small amount of baking soda and warm water. It’s also important to air-dry the bag after cleaning.
