Choosing the right hydration backpack

A hydration backpack is designed primarily to carry water and make drinking water convenient and efficient. In fact, with most hydration backpacks you don't have to stop, or even slow down, to take a sip of water, you simply grab the tube that's connected to the included water reservoir and you're done.

Types of hydration backpacks

First find a pack designed for the activities you do, make sure the pack has enough room for your water and equipment, the pack should fit your torso length and hip size. Consider additional features, such as bite valve on/off switches and quick disconnect tubing.

There are backpacks made specifically for different outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, mountain biking, skiing and snowboarding. The common feature among almost all of them is the included hydration reservoir that facilitates the consumption of alcohol.

Hydration backpack for trekking

These packs are very similar to standard hiking packs and generally feature ample cargo space for food, extra layers and the ten essentials you need to carry on every outing. They vary in size, from small packs for short hikes to those large enough for ultralight overnight stays.

Cycling hydration backpack

You are at hydration backpacks are designed specifically for road cycling and mountain biking. Those designed for road are typically compact and low profile, so they feel light, stable on the back and won't create a large amount of wind resistance. Packs designed for mountain biking are slightly larger to accommodate additional gear, clothing and bike tools. All cycling hydration packs typically have low profile waist belts that won't interfere with your pedalling.

Hydration backpacks for runners

These are designed specifically for running, while shopping, you will notice that some are called running waistcoats, while others are called backpacks. The line between the two is sometimes blurred.

Running waistcoats

As you would expect, these look like a normal waistcoat and are designed to fit your body, they are similar to a backpack that you carry over your shoulders and back, but tend to be a little lower profile, have more pockets on the front of the shoulder straps and don't have a hip belt like most backpacks.

Running backpacks

They look a lot like a backpack you'd wear on a day hike but with running-specific features, such as a low-profile design, a simple hip belt (some don't have a hip belt) and easy-access pockets while running. They sometimes provide more storage space than waistcoats (mainly at the back), making them a good choice for long runs that require a lot of extra food and clothing.

Hydration backpacks for winter sports

Designed for activities such as skiing and snowboarding, the hydration backpacks Snowsports backpacks are winterised to prevent the water supply from freezing, which means that there is usually insulation in the reservoir and drinking tube, and sometimes a valve cap. Some winter sports specific backpacks include tab points or carrying straps to allow hands-free carrying of a snowboard or skis.

Hydration pack reservoir capacity

Water is not light (1 litre weighs about 2 pounds), so think about how much you need to carry and whether you'll be able to refill it on the trail, then buy a hydration pack in line with that.

Here are some things to think about in relation to the capacity of your backpack:

• 0.5 litres or less (16 fluid ounces or less): backpacks with minimal water capacity are usually waist packs that include one or two water bottles. They are best for light activities such as running or walking.
• 1 litre or 1.5 litres (32 or 50 fluid ounces): a good choice for minimalists, children and short distance cyclists, hikers and runners.
• 2 litres or 2.5 litres (70 or 85 fluid ounces): These popular tank sizes offer a good balance of weight and reasonable volume, while providing a sufficient amount of water that in most situations will only require occasional refills.
• 3 litres or more (100 fluid ounces or more): Made for the thirsty and adventurous or for those who don't want to stop. Also good for anyone exploring terrain where water is scarce.

Gear capacity considerations

• 5 litres or less: most of these small backpacks are designed for lightweight activities such as running, road cycling and ultralight hiking. Their compact, low-profile design provides space for just a handful of essentials, such as an extra layer, a few energy bars and your keys.
• 6 litres to 10 litres: many of the backpacks in this range are designed for mountain biking or trail running. They have enough space to easily fit one or two extra layers, food for the day and your camera.
• From 11 litres to 20 litres: these mid-sized backpacks are built for hiking, mountain biking or trail running and feature extra pockets to keep you organised.
• 21 litres or more: Any hydration backpack larger than 21 litres is generally designed for hiking. These have enough cargo space and comfort and load-bearing features to work well on long hikes. Some are even large enough for light and fast overnight adventures.

Hydration belts generally fit a wide range of hip sizes, from mid-20 inches to mid-40 inches or more. You can find this measurement in the product specifications to choose your hydration backpack adequate.