Are you looking for a new hydration bladder?
A hydration bladder is an essential piece of gear for anyone who loves the outdoors in the hot and cold weather. They are versatile, durable, and easy to use - perfect for any activity from hiking to biking.
In this article, we will review six of the best hydration bladders on the market today.
We'll discuss their features and benefits, and help you decide which one is right for you!
Are Hydration Bladders Worth It?
Yes, hydration bladders are worth it if you're looking for a more convenient way to drink water while you're hiking, biking, or running.
Hydration bladders and hydration packs are great because they allow you to drink without having to stop what you're doing.
They also keep your water cold, which is nice on hot days. And let's not forget, they prevent us from getting dehydrated!
A durable bladder or hydration reservoir is a must-have if you're an on-the-go type of person.
How We Pick The Best Hydration Bladders
You're looking for the best hydration bladders out there, but you don't know where to start.
It can be tough finding a good quality hydration bladders and hydration reservoirs that meet all your needs. You might not even know what to look for in hydration bladders.
That's why we're here! After reading and analyzing thousands of customer reviews, we've put together a list of the best hydration bladders and hydration reservoirs on the market today.
Read on to see our top picks!
The Best Hydration Bladders
Top Shelf Features
Looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water reservoir for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the CamelBak Crux Reservoir.
This 3 liter reservoir is perfect for long hikes or days spent in the great outdoors, and features an improved ergonomic shape and improved water flow for easy loading and refilling.
Plus, with 20% more water per sip, you’ll stay hydrated all day long. Whether you’re hitting the trails or just exploring your own backyard, the CamelBak Crux Reservoir is the perfect partner for all your outdoor adventures.
Top Shelf Details
This top-of-the-line CamelBak Crux reservoir is made from durable, leak-proof material, so you can rest assured that your belongings will stay dry.
The CamelBak Crux Reservoir also features a tightened cap that prevents leaks, and the plastic is free of BPAs, BPSs, and BPFs - leaving no sign of plastic taste on your mouth.
Plus, CamelBak hydration bladders and hydration reservoirs are engineered for optimal efficiency and convenience.
The CamelBak hydration bladder and the ergonomic shape of their hydration bladders fit easily in your bag, and the big bite valve allows you to take in more water per sip.
Top Shelf Features
This innovative reservoir is engineered with a patented, flex-molded 3D design that provides all the benefits of a traditional reservoir, but dries as quickly as a regular water bottle.
Plus, the spine co-molded handle and rigid baseplate make refills a breeze, while the integrated hose port and routing and bite valve make it super easy to use.
So if you’re looking for a hydration reservoir that will keep you hydrated on even the longest hikes, the Gregory 3D Hydro Reservoir is the perfect choice.
Top Shelf Details
Gregory's 3D Hydro Reservoir is designed for optimal hydration on the go.
Combined with it's proprietary speed clip mounting system, dry lock magnetic bite valve, integrated quick dry hangar, and inline hydration hose quick-disconnect, these best hydration bladders provide you with an outstanding hydration system with a high flow bite valve.
The Gregory 3D Hydro Reservoir is the perfect way to ensure that you stay hydrated during your next adventure.
Editor's Choice
Osprey Hydraulics Water Reservoir / Hydration Bladder 2-3 Liters
Top Shelf Features
Looking for light hydration bladders or hydration packs that are easy to use and clean? Check out the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir.
This reservoir features a slide-seal top opening that seals watertight, making it easy to fill and clean.
The hydrostatic backerplate provides structure to shove a full reservoir into a fully loaded pack, and the Hydrapak Blaster high flow bite valve offers fast, smooth water flow.
Plus, the ¼ twist on/off switch makes it easy to control the flow of water.
Top Shelf Details
The Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir and high flow bite valve is the perfect way to stay hydrated on the go.
Their QuickConnect system and carry handle make removal and filling easy, while the magnet clip attaches to the reservoir hose and pairs with the included sternum strap magnet for easy water access and hydration hose management.
All parts of this great hydration bladder and hydration reservoir are BPA-free, phthalate-free, lead-free, and certified food safe.
Top Shelf Features
This 6 liter rugged bag is perfect for all sorts of adventures, from alpine expeditions to road trips.
It features a tough 1,000-Denier exterior and is now laminated with an improved BPA-free food-grade lining for better-tasting water and water flow through its bite valves.
Plus, it can handle freezing temperatures and the abuse inflicted by expedition crews and hardcore adventurers.
So whether you're looking for a reliable water storage solution for your next adventure or just want peace of mind knowing you have a top-quality product, the MSR Dromedary Bag is the perfect choice.
Top Shelf Details
The MSR Dromedary durable bag features streamlined webbing and strategic grommets for easy attachment to your pack or for hanging.
The included MSR 3-in-1 cap makes filling, drinking and pouring a breeze. Choose from three different sizes to best fit your needs.
And because MSR products are made in the USA, you can be confident in their quality and craftsmanship.
All products are covered by a three year limited warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship.
Top Shelf Features
The HydraPak water bladder is perfect for high impact activities like mountain biking, snowboarding, skiing, hiking, and running.
The low-profile design and adjustable baffle provide increased stabilization, while the plug-n-play connect system makes it easy to disconnect the drink tube and remove the reservoir from your pack for convenient refilling or in-line filtering.
Plus, the auto shutoff valve prevents bladder leaking so you can rest assured that your Hydrapak Water Bladder will provide you with refreshing hydration all day long.
Top Shelf Details
The HydraPak Water Bladder is engineered with high performance features like the Blaster medium sized Bite Valve. This water bladder is made for those who demand the best.
The 100 percent BPA free and dishwasher safe design is also reversible for easy cleaning, and features patented Slide-Seal top technology to prevent leaks.
When you're looking for a water bladder that can keep up with your active lifestyle, reach for the puncture resistant HydraPak Water Bladder.
Best Bang For Your Buck
Platypus Hoser Ultralight Water Reservoir / Hydration Bladder
Top Shelf Features
Looking for a lightweight, minimalist hydration system that doesn't sacrifice on performance?
Unlike other hydration bladders, the Platypus hydration bladder and it's ultralight water reservoir is offered with or without the Fast Flow Valve, and delivers taste-free hydration with every sip.
The self-sealing HyFLO bite valve provides a 30-percent increase in flow rate, making it quick and easy to stay hydrated on the go.
And the versatile, durable design makes the Platypus Hoser perfect for backpacking, thru-hiking, and day hikes.
Top Shelf Details
This versatile reservoir is made in the USA and features an integrated hang/carry loop for easy transport.
The Hoser is also taste-free and BPA-free, making it a safe choice for your hydration needs.
Plus, the embedded silver-ion keeps the reservoir funk-free. The outlet on the Platypus Hoser Reservoir also accepts any threaded Platypus drink tube or closure cap.
Choose from 4 different sizes to find the perfect fit for your needs and stay hydrated on your next adventure with the Platypus Water Reservoir!
Top Shelf Summary
- TOP SHELF - CamelBak Crux Reservoir 3-Liter Water - Hydration Bladder
- Next Best - Gregory Mountain Products 3D Hydro Reservoir
- Product #3 Editor’s Choice - Osprey Hydraulics Water Reservoir / Hydration Bladder (2-3 Liters)
- The Classic Big Boy - MSR Dromedary Bag Water Reservoir
- Low Profile - HydraPak Shape-Shift Low-Profile Water Bladder/Reservoir for Hydration Backpacks
- Best Bang For Your Buck - Platypus Hoser Ultralight Taste-Free Water Reservoir / Hydration Bladder
Best Hydration Bladder For You
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to find the best hydration bladder for your needs.
Scroll back up to each hydration bladder review and click on the buttons to check the prices of our top picks. We think you’ll love them!
Thanks for reading, and happy trails.
Best Hydration Bladder FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the best hydration bladders:
What is a hydration bladder used for?
The best hydration bladders are used as a means of carrying water or other beverages while participating in activities that do not permit drinking from a cup or bottle.
For example, many people use the best hydration bladders when hiking, running, biking, or skiing because it is difficult to drink from a bottle or cup while engaged in those activities.
Most hydration bladders are also popular among military personnel and emergency responders because they allow for hands-free drinking.
How big of a hydration bladder do I need?
A hydration bladder that's big enough to fit all of your water needs will vary depending on the person.
For a long hike, you might need something that can hold up to 2 liters of water. If you're just going out for a short jog, you might only need a 500 mL bladder.
How often should I replace my hydration bladder?
Replacing your hydration bladder is ultimately up to you and how often you think it needs to be replaced.
However, hydration bladders usually need to be replaced every 6-12 months, especially if they are used frequently.
If you're not sure whether or not your hydration bladder needs to be replaced, there are a few telltale signs: if the bladder starts to leak, becomes discolored, or develops a foul odor, it's time for a replacement.
Do you need a special backpack for a hydration bladder?
It depends on the hydration bladder. Most backpacks have a section specifically designed to hold a hydration bladder, but there are also backpacks that come with the bladder included.
If your backpack doesn't have a section designed to hold a hydration bladder, you can buy a special sleeve or pouch to put it in.
Either way, it's important to make sure that the hydration bladder fits snugly in the backpack and isn't bouncing around as you walk.
This can not only be uncomfortable, but also dangerous if the bladder leaks.
How do you drink from a hydration bladder?
Hydration bladders are designed to be easy to drink from. You simply bite down on the bite valve and suck the water up into your mouth.
Some bite valves require you to bite down in order for the water to flow, while others allow you to just suck on the valve without biting it.
Be sure to read the instructions that come with your hydration bladder so that you know how to use it properly.
Can you put a water bladder in any backpack?
Water bladders are a great way to carry water with you on your hikes, bike rides, and runs. That said, not all backpacks are created equal.
Some backpacks have small bladder pockets that are difficult to access and use, while others have large bladder pockets that make filling and using the bladder a breeze.
When looking for a backpack or hydration sleeve to use with a water bladder, be sure to choose one that has a dedicated bladder pocket and is designed specifically for hydration systems.
This will ensure that the pack has the correct straps and compartments to accommodate your water bladder and make it easy for you to hydrate on the go.
How to get rid of mold in your hydration bladder?
Depending on the severity of the mold, there are a few different ways to get rid of it.
If the mold is only on the surface, you can try to scrub it off with a stiff brush and some vinegar or hydrogen peroxide.
If that doesn't work, you can try soaking the bladder in a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) for 30 minutes.
If the mold is more severe and has infiltrated the bladder material, you'll need to replace the bladder.
How do you clean your hydration bladder?
There are a few ways for a thorough cleaning of your hydration bladder opening. You can use a mild dish soap and water, or you can use a diluted bleach solution.
Make sure to rinse the bladder thoroughly after the easy cleaning. You may also find a hydration bladder cleaning kit and other hydration bladder accessories.
Can you put ice in a hydration bladder?
Yes, you can put ice in a hydration bladder, but it's not recommended.
When the ice melts, it will lower the temperature of the water and make it less refreshing to drink.
Additionally, if too much ice is added, it can cause the bladder to expand and eventually burst.
How long can you leave water in a hydration bladder?
Depending on the type of light bladder, you can generally leave water in a hydration bladder for anywhere from 24 to 72 hours.
However, it's important to note that leaving water in a bladder for an extended period of time can increase the risk of bacteria growth in your hydration system. .
For this reason, it's generally recommended that you empty your durable bladder after each use to prevent bacteria growth in the hydration system so you don't get in bad water through your drink tube.
