10 Best Hydration Packs Under 50$ For Cycling, Hiking & Climbing
Powering through an intense workout session requires that you stay hydrated. That’s why you need to get the best hydration packs to help fuel your body, whether you are running, biking or hiking. And, we’ve selected top rated options to ensure that you get the value for your money.
We compiled this list with the help of an award-winning cyclist, with a hands-on experience using different packs. Think of it as a way to make the info provided here factual and accurate. Click through to discover the best hydration packs right now.
Table of Contents
- Hydration Packs Buyer’s Guide: Which Hydration Pack is the Best?
- 1. TETON Sports Oasis
- 2. Mubasel Gear Hydration Backpack
- 3. Platypus Big Zip
- 4. Mubasel Gear 2-L Pack
- 5. CamelBak Kids Mini Hydration Pack
- 6. Vibrelli Hydration Pack
- 7. RUPUMPACK Hydration Backpack
- 8. Atlapa Sports Backpack
- 9. Unigear Hydration Pack
- 10. LX LERMX Water Bottle
- Hydration Packs – Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Hydration Packs Buyer’s Guide: Which Hydration Pack is the Best?
1. TETON Sports Oasis
You don’t have to struggle to pack for out-and-back adventures. The Oasis by TETON Sports is compact and technical, with a generous capacity of 1100 cubic inches (or 18 liters).
With such volume, you can count on this baby to take care of your hydration needs during the day and into the night.
Oasis will keep your water clean and safe thanks to the BPA free, two-liter hydration bladder. Meanwhile, the robust, kink-free sip tube allows you to access your drink conveniently.
Cleaning the Oasis isn’t a struggle either. It touts a large two-inch opening, to enable you to get rid of deposits in a cinch.
The other thing we love about this hydration is that you can adjust the frame for a comfortable fit. By extension, makes it usable by virtually anyone, from kids to men and women. It even has notched foam with a mesh so you can wear it for hours.
Other notable highlights include a large main pocket for your clothes and lunch. The bungee cord system comes in handy for hanging climbing and cycling helmets.
2. Mubasel Gear Hydration Backpack
Who said that you have to splash lots of cash for the best hydration pack? Well, not Mubasel Gear!
A brilliant choice if you’re on a tight budget, this unit features a 70-ounce FDA approved bladder so you can stay hydrated round the clock.
What’s more? You will love the thermal insulation to keep your drinks cool for a whopping five hours. How cool is that!
The three storage compartments are roomy enough to accommodate your key, clothes, meshes, and phones. Further, the front stretch mesh pockets provide even more space.
Setting the Mubasel Gear apart from close competition is the 100% leak free. In essence, this means that you can use it in extreme of weathers without a care in the world that the components will get tampered with.
More than that, you won’t have to worry about drying the bladder. The super-thoughtful one screw construction allows ensures that it dries itself.
The adequately padded shoulder straps allow you to carry the pack comfortably while the lightweight build makes it a brilliant pick for virtually any outdoor sports.
3. Platypus Big Zip
Got a backpack already but missing a water reservoir? You don’t have a new pack!
Grab this hydration reservoir with a 1.5-liter capacity, tuck it into your favorite backpack and hit the trails – easy as pie!
The Platypus Big Zip is a leak-proof unit, complete with a fast flow rate to provide the hydration you need during traveling, mountain biking, and backpacking.
The integrated slide lock moves both ways to open the unit quickly. Plus, the pincher grip enables convenient, one-handed filling.
You can detach the Platypus Big Zip from your backpack in a second. The high mount, quick-disconnect provides fast access to the reservoir without having to dig deep into the pack or disengaging the drinking tube.
The Platypus Big Zip also has a smart shut-off valve that stops the flow of water instantly. And then there is the Hilo, self-sealing bite valve to increase the flow. Add the 5/16 drink tube and what you get is hydration pack that you can count on time and again.
For those who may want to know, Platypus Big Zip measures 8 x 13 inches. It weighs 5 ounces.
4. Mubasel Gear 2-L Pack
Mubasel Gear makes a return to our best hydration packs with this two-liter option.
Equipped with three storage compartments (measuring 16.5 by 9.85 inches) this unit will carry everything that you need for a full day of outdoor activity.
With what it has to offer, this pack will be a handy companion, whether you are hitting the pavement for a new bike, touring Grand Canyon for a hike or skinning up your couloir for backcountry skiing.
And yes, you get a two-liter bladder, so there shouldn’t be a problem as far as your hydration needs go.
While this pack doesn’t have the whistles and bells of some premium units, it is amazingly sturdy. More specifically, it can carry a weight of 132 pounds. Even more impressive, it can double up as a pillow whenever you need to lie down outside.
Did we mention that the bladder’s opening is that enough to allow to add ice whenever you need to chill your drink?
And, like its counterpart (number 2 above), this pack comes at a reasonable price. Choose from a collection of colors, ranging from red to green, grey and black.
5. CamelBak Kids Mini Hydration Pack
The name couldn’t have more appropriate. This unit has our vote for the best hydration pack for kids. The CamelBak Kids Mini features a 1.5-liter reservoir to keep your little monster hydrated during a family day’s out.
Your teen will love the leak-proof on/off valves that shut off the water supply at the flick of a thumb for superior security during transport. In the meantime, the wide reservoir opening delivers 20% more water for every sip.
The ergonomic handle ensures easy refilling while the breathable air mesh back provides a comfortable fit.
Want to use the CamelBak Kids Mini in the dark? No worries! It comes with reflective accents to increase visibility in low-light conditions.
And, if you have an extra load, all you have to do is to use the stretch overflow storage compartments to carry it around.
The CamelBak Kids Mini as a safety whistle, integrated into the sternum strap. That way, you don’t have to struggle to locate the rest of the entourage during a hiking or backpacking trip. Pick from a collection of five vibrant colors including red and pink.
6. Vibrelli Hydration Pack
Mountain and day hikers will cherish this versatile hydration pack by Vibrelli. Top on the list of its impressive features is the taste-free hydration bladder.
The reservoir uses anti-bacterial medical grade materials to prevent algae buildup. The flow rate is on point too, thanks to the bite valve that allows you to control how much water the bladder spurts out.
The back panel has a meshed fabric for increased breathability when carrying the unit. Reviewers praise the multiple storage compartments for enabling you to bring your essentials without being bulky.
The Vibrelli weighs about 14 ounces. It is incredibly lightweight, with a streamlined design for easy adjustment.
How durable is this thing you ask? Well, it is made using 420D Ripstop Fabrics that is both water resistant and tear proof. Some outdoor enthusiasts say it can last over five years, even with frequent use.
With such flexibility, we recommend it if you’re looking for a reliable running or cycling hydration unit that will not disappoint. And the beauty of it is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get one!
7. RUPUMPACK Hydration Backpack
You will be surprised how much the RUPUMPACK can carry comfortably. It weighs 650 grams and almost as light as a feather.
The 18-liter capacity is incredibly versatile, with smaller compartments that provide tons on organization potential so you can take it biking, hiking, skiing or climbing.
The ergonomically designed shoulders straps combine with adjustable sternum and hip straps for a secure fit, irrespective of how uneven the terrain gets.
The RUPUMPACK even comes with an elastic helmet holder that will keep your head protected from swaying and swinging during refreshments.
And then there is the 2.5-liter bladder to carry enough water to last you the entire day. The high-quality aluminum insulation foil helps keep your drinks cold for up to four hours. Do you know what this means? It implies that you can use the RUPUMPACK as an outdoor or indoor cooler.
The outer nylon material is water resistant, with reflectors on the shoulder straps at the front and the back.
Check this unit out – there’s a reason we’ve featured it in our best hydration pack reviews.
8. Atlapa Sports Backpack
Start your long distance trail run or compete in your next Ironman with this simple, minimalist hydration pack by Atlapa Sports.
Available is a six-color selection, it is remarkably roomy, allowing you to tuck in everything including towels, laptop, keys, phones, laptop, and extra clothes.
Like most options on this list, it has a two-liter reservoir made using BPA free, TPU material. Reviewers love the balanced weigh and the fit snug that prevents this pack from bouncing around as you run or cycle.
And, just as you’d hoped, the Atlapa Sports bladder is insulated to keep drinks cold for a reasonable five hours.
The silicone bite valve and the sliding on/off shutoff make it convenient for you to stay hydrated during outdoor adventures.
More than that, the Atlapa Sports hydration backpack is as comfortable as you’d want it to be. It has padded and adjustable shoulder straps to accommodate multiple users.
The back is breathable to increase airflow. Indeed the outer material is waterproof and tear-resistant for durability.
9. Unigear Hydration Pack
The Unigear measures 6.5 x 8 x 6.0 inch. It will fit a chest size kids with 27 inches and up to adults with 50 inches. And yes, you can adjust the shoulder straps for a snug fit.
Due to its compact size, we vouch for it as one of the best hydration packs if you’re in for a unit to carry the essentials and leave the clutter behind.
Sure, the Unigear is small, but it can fit a two-liter water reservoir. It has internal organize pockets too. That way, you can still carry extra lubes, tools and a mini pump.
On top of that, the AirFlow panel prevents sweat from accumulating your lower back. The outer material is splash resistant to ensure that your personals remain dry in light rain.
The integrated waist strap is tear resistant to assure you of months upon months of reliable performance.
We couldn’t help but notice the strategically placed front pocket that’s big enough to fit your smartphone, two granola bars and a bunch of keys. We like!
10. LX LERMX Water Bottle
The LX LERMX wraps up our best hydration packs rundown. Sure, this isn’t a pack per se but is a handy unit that deserves your attention.
For starters, this is a water bottle – but will a little twist to it. It has a capacity of 500 ml, to provide handheld hydration whenever you need it.
You will love the integrated strap that allows you to attach the bottle to your hand comfortably. That way, you can run without worrying that the flask can fall off your hands. Meanwhile, the thumbhole provides grip-free running to keep your hands relaxed.
Just when you thought that the LX LERMX couldn’t get any better, we tell you about the built-in pocket that can carry a 5.5 inches cellphone, cash, and keys. How about that!
You can fold the LX LERMX for convenient storage. Also, the soft water bottle detaches from the fabric pouch for quick cleaning and refilling. The premium material is compressible, increasing this pack’s portability.
So user-oriented is this thing the best way to experience it is to grab yours. Be sure to view it.
Hydration Packs – Buying Guide
Hydration packs are specially designed to help you transport water. They make it convenient and efficient to drink water as you continue with other activities. In fact, with most models, you don’t necessarily have to slow down or stop to drink water; you just have to grasp the tube. These packs are commonly used by trail runners. When shopping for the best hydration packs, you should consider a few factors to ensure you buy a functional product. They include:
Fit
Fit is a critical factor when buying hydration packs. Regardless of how good-looking a hydration pack is, you can’t put it on if it does not fit you well. Improperly fitting packs might rub you, causing soreness, irritation, and other forms of discomfort. A well-fitting model will hug the body comfortably without affecting breathing or constricting arm movement. Some packs come with universal sizing, so you can manually adjust them to fit the body. However, others come in sizes that will fit a particular size. Just like other forms of clothing, fit is personal, so you should always compare the available choices to ensure you purchase a perfect pack.
Fluid Capacity
Another important factor to consider is the fluid carrying bladder’s capacity. Carrying bladders come in varying sizes. These models range between 1.5 liters and 3 liters. As you can see, there’s a significant difference regarding fluid capacity. You should, therefore, consider the amount of fluid you’ll require for your expeditions. If you’re doing short rides around the neighborhood, then small packs of around 1.5-liter capacity will suffice. However, in case you plan to go on long expeditions, you should look for larger options like the 3-liter capacity hydration packs.
Cargo Capacity
Just like fluid capacity, cargo capacity also varies from one hydration pack to the other. It also depends on the amount of time that you intend to use the pack for and your intended activity. If you plan for full-day adventures, then you will have to carry more tools, clothing, and food in your hydration pack. Also, for downhill riding, your pack should have the ability to carry a helmet and protective body armor. Some models are designed to provide greater cargo capacity, and they come with extra compartments and straps to keep your additional gear as you ride. Depending on the distance you plan to cover, you might also require more headwear, trekking poles, sunglasses, and gloves. Remember, the more items you plan to carry, the more space you’ll require.
Fabric
The fabric used to make hydration packs varies from one model to the other. The most common fabrics used are plastic, polyester, and ripstop. Just like other bags, you should go for a model that’s made of high quality and durable fabric. Besides, the fabric should withstand different elements to give you long-term performance. In this regard, go for packs made of ripstop and reinforced areas to stand the test of time.
In-built Protection
Also, consider the protection features that a hydration pack comes with. If you plan to make a transition downhill, then you’ll be better off by buying a pack that proved armor-like protection. It should also have a carrying kit to store your essential gear. Consider models with a back panel that will contour to your body shape and guarantee shock absorption in case you fall. These features will provide the required protection without necessarily adding more weight or bulk to your pack. Therefore, always look at the in-built protection features that a hydration pack offers before making a decision to buy one.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Conclusion
So there you have it – the best hydration packs reviewed. As usual, don’t hesitate to shoot us a question regarding any of the units on this list. Also, don’t forget to share your experience with the pack that you chose. For now, over to you!