Choosing a hiking daypack with hydration is definitely not an easy matter. The market is so crowded these days. You can easily find a wide variety of volumes and styles. Each of them tries to distinguish themselves with unique constructions and accessories. But you don’t need to worry, because here we’ll give you some great tips on how to choose the best hiking daypack with hydration. Apart from that, we’ve also compiled some of the best daypacks around, complete with their reviews! So, are you guys excited? Well, without further ado, let’s get started!
How to Choose The Best Hiking Daypack with Hydration
As we said at the start, the market for hiking daypacks with hydration has been frenetic lately. There’s a high chance that you’ll have a hard time finding the one that you really want. But, don’t worry, because that’s exactly why you’re here right?
So, here we’ve compiled some of the things you should expect from the best hiking daypack with hydration. That way, you can determine what kind of backpack really fits your needs and your climbing plan. Without further ado, here are three factors to consider when choosing a hiking daypack with hydration.
Size
How big a daypack do I need for a hike? This is a classic question that’s generally asked when someone is looking for a hiking daypack with hydration. While there’s no exact answer to that, you should be fine with a 20-35L pack. It all depends on how much clothing and gear you plan to bring. The more complex or long the climb, the more space you need.
Ventilation
Getting the best hiking daypack with hydration and good ventilation is a must. Especially if you plan on hiking in a hot or humid place. Trust us, there’s a big difference between doing outdoor activities with a sweaty back and a dry t-shirt. So when you’re looking for a hiking daypack with hydration, make sure it’s capable of providing extra airflow or has some additional airways.
Rain Cover
Remember that the best hiking daypack with hydration generally comes with a rain cover. Save yourself the hassle of buying one separately. Apart from that, the covers should come in handy to protect some of your most valuable items. And in most cases, a decent rain cover will work better than a regular plastic bag.
Can I Put a Hydration Bladder in Any Backpack?
The short answer is yes. The bad news is, it’s not a straightforward process. The good news is, it’s not something that’s difficult to learn and do. The best part is, you can find tons of detailed tutorials on the Internet. Have a good search!
Is a Hydration Pack Worth It?
Absolutely. A hydration pack will allow you to drink without having to bother stopping and pulling out the water bottle. This will save you a lot of time, which is crucial on most hikes. Additionally, a hydration pack can generally accommodate more water than a regular water bottle.
How Do You Keep Water Cold in a Hydration Pack?
So far, adding ice cubes is the best way to do this. But remember, don’t add too much, as it can make your whole bag freeze. Alternatively, you can store the pack in the freezer for a couple of hours before the hike.
Deuter Trail 30
13
Anyone out there who considers themselves a serious hiker should try Deuter Trail 30. This is a hiking daypack with hydration designed for more complex and more challenging hikes. The top-loader design is a bit of a genius. There’s front panel access, so you shouldn’t have any trouble grabbing some of your buried items. On top of that, the padded back provides extra airflow, letting you feel super comfortable during the entire hike.
On top of that, Deuter also added a pull-forward hip belt adjustment to provide a really tight fit. For extra technicality, this daypack also features a trekking pole holder and an ice ax loop. If you spend a lot of your time in alpine environments, this daypack is definitely worth checking out.
What We Love
Made for serious hikers with plenty of great technical features
Pros:
- Deuter Aircontact Trail system
- Hydration system compatible
- 30L of volume
- Wet laundry compartment
Cons:
- It may be a little too much for some people
Mystery Ranch Scree 32
12
Mystery Ranch Scree 32 is the best daypack with hydration designed to take all kinds of abuse. Seriously, this backpack is really tough! That’s why it’s so popular with hikers as well as professional guides. Most of them love the toughness and design. There’s quick access to the top and a handy three-zipper system. Organizing your climbing gear is extremely convenient since the bag features a main compartment with three internal pockets. Apart from that, there’s a hydration storage system here.
As for fitting, Mystery Ranch Scree 32 deserves two thumbs up. The torso length is completely adjustable, the hip belt is removable, and there are several compression straps for carrying some extra gear. No matter how demanding your next adventure is, this is a daypack with hydration that’ll serve you well.
And speaking of hiking, don’t you agree that it would be more fun if you could communicate intensively with your partner throughout the adventure? But since coverage can be very limited around the backcountry, you’ll need an alternative solution. For that, check out our 13 best walkie-talkies for hiking.
What We Love
Designed to be really tough, with quick access to the top
Pros:
- Zippered lid pocket
- Water bottle pockets
- Double-layered bottom
- Hydration reservoir compatible
Cons:
- Too small for backpacking, especially if you plan on going somewhere with cold weather
Osprey Stratos 36
11
Tricky adventures demand more capable gear. For that, we recommend the Osprey Stratos 36. It’s a daypack with hydration and a massive compartment. With a capacity of 36 liters, there’ll be no shortage of space to store all the gear you need. If that’s not enough, the Osprey also includes an ice ax loop, shaft holder, and trekking pole holder. Apart from that, there’s a mesh back panel ventilation system that’ll keep your shirt dry throughout the adventure. Great when you hike during hot or humid weather.
Despite its bulky dimensions, the Osprey Stratos offers easy access to all your stuff. The top cover features two closed pockets. Meanwhile, there’s a center zip on the front. Furthermore, you’ll find two large zippered pockets on the hip belt. If you’re planning to participate in a more technical hike anytime soon, this daypack is quite recommended.
What We Love
Come with a large compartment, allowing you to pack more gear
Pros:
- Internal hydration sleeve
- Ventilated back panel
- Stretch mesh pockets
- Integrated rain cover
Cons:
- It won’t sit upright when you place it on the ground
Deuter Guide Lite 24
10
Deuter Guide Lite 24 is made for those who prefer something simple and minimalist. It’s great for casual hikes or trekking in the backcountry. There’s a drawstring closure at the top, which should be handy for when you want to pack a few additional layers or some extra large gear. And since the pack is designed to sit tight against your back, it’s highly recommended for speed hikes.
Just as you’d expect from a daypack with hydration, there’s a hip belt included. It’s removable, so you can leave it at home, in case you need to remove some of the excess load. For easy access to your hiking essentials, Deuter includes an external zip pocket. Whenever you plan to hit the trails, this daypack will be your best buddy!
What We Love
A drawstring closure at the top, which really comes in handy when you need to pack some extra large gear
Pros:
- Great for endurance sports and speed climbing
- Sunglasses holder on the shoulder strap
- Lightweight U-frame
- Removable hip belt
Cons:
- It’s pretty minimalist for a best daypack with hydration
Osprey Talon 22
9
When it comes to popularity, nothing can really beat the Osprey Talon 22. And it’s easy to see why. This daypack is designed to provide a really tight fit, yet still feels great at the same time. Furthermore, its torso length is fully adjustable. On top of that, the mesh hip belt grips your waist comfortably and provides the extra ventilation you need. As for the fluid supply, there’s an external hydration sleeve here. In other words, refilling the hydration bladder will be much easier.
Another thing that makes the Osprey Talon 22 much more appealing than other daypacks with hydration is its main compartment. It’s large in size, providing more than enough room to accommodate bulky items, including insulated jackets and sweaters.
What We Love
One of the most popular daypacks among hikers, with a fully adjustable torso length
Pros:
- Zipper closure
- Dual-zippered access
- External hydration sleeve
- Adjustable shoulder harness
Cons:
- There have been several reports regarding zippers stuck
Deuter Speed Lite 24
8
No matter what kind of your outdoor activities are, the Deuter Speed Lite 24 will be a backpack you can trust. It features a shell-inspired design, providing instant access to all the gear you pack in it. Therefore, this pack is highly recommended for almost any type of high-intensity activity, including hiking, biking, or even skiing.
On the top side, you’ll find a special pocket. It’s designed to accommodate your smaller items, including keys, cards, and smartphones. Apart from that, there’s a front stretch pocket and a water bottle pocket as well. And if you want to bring a snowboard or other bulky gear, this daypack with hydration also comes with several compression straps.
What We Love
A multi-functional pack, great for a variety of high-intensity outdoor activities
Pros:
- Deltrin U-shaped frame
- Padded AirMesh shoulder straps
- Compression straps
- 3-liter hydration system
Cons:
- Nothing, as far as we know
Osprey Stratos 24
7
The Osprey Stratos 24 is designed to provide the ultimate comfort when you have to carry heavy loads. That’s why this hiking daypack with hydration features a full metal frame and large mesh panels. Both work really well to keep you comfortable throughout the intense adventure. Apart from that, this backpack also has a main compartment with plenty of space, making organizing your belongings a lot easier.
Nevertheless, at around three pounds, the Osprey Stratos 24 is probably not for everyone. It can be too heavy, especially for novice hikers. Other than that, it’s also not the cheapest daypack around. But if you’re all about technicality and quality, then this is your best hiking daypack with hydration.
And by the way, are any of you planning on doing winter hikes in the near future? Well, make sure your feet are completely protected from the freezing weather. Check out our great coverage on the 13 best snowshoes for hiking.
What We Love
Provides ultimate comfort when you have to keep moving with heavy loads on your back
Pros:
- Integrated and removable rain cover
- Two zippered hip belts pockets
- Stretch mesh pockets
- Ventilated back panel
Cons:
- It’ll probably be too heavy for most
Granite Gear Crown 60
6
Granite Gear is a Minnesota-based brand that’s starting to gain popularity among outdoor enthusiasts these days. One of their newest innovations, Granite Gear Crown 60, is a daypack with hydration specifically designed for minimalist thru-hikers and backpackers. If you want something slimmer, they even have a 38-liter model.
Compared to most daypacks, Crown 60 provides you with 14 liters of extra space. But incredibly, that doesn’t make the bag feel significantly heavier. Apart from that, you still get all the conveniences of a regular daypack. From back panels, hipbelt, to shoulder straps, everything is here. It also has a roll-top closure, which should come in handy when you need to carry bulky gear.
What We Love
Offers plenty of extra space, but is just as comfortable as a smaller daypack
Pros:
- High-tenacity nylon
- Vapor Current Mark 2 frames
- Dual-density shoulder harness
- Roll-top main compartment
Cons:
- Nothing, as far as we know
CamelBak Rim Runner 22
5
Offered at around 100 bucks, the CamelBak Rim Runner 22 is actually a hydration pack with a Crux reservoir system. It only weighs about a pound, which makes it perfect for hiking or cross-country running. There’s breathable mesh on the back panel, so your body temperature will be continuously regulated during the whole intense activities. When it comes to quality, there isn’t much to criticize about this product.
The bottom line is, while CamelBak Rim Runner 22 isn’t actually a daypack with hydration, it would be a great alternative. Especially if you’re planning on doing a casual or close-up hike. Besides being lightweight, this pack is also comfortable and won’t add to the burden on your back.
What We Love
A hydration pack with the popular Crux reservoir system
Pros:
- Crux reservoir system
- Breathable air mesh back panel
- Stretch overflow exterior pockets
- Hip belt with open mesh
Cons:
- The backpack feels a little flimsy
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak
4
Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak is a great option if you’re into a light backpack. This 17-liter capacity pack comes with Dyneema Composite fabric weather-resistant and great overall organization. Apart from the main compartment you also get a large front pocket and two side pockets. Whenever you plan to explore rough terrain, this bag will serve you well.
Unfortunately, all of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak’s greatness doesn’t come cheap. To make this daypack with hydration yours, be prepared to spend about 210 bucks. However, it’s understandable since you need to pay a premium price for premium quality.
What We Love
A pack that is great and powerful for its dimensions
Pros:
- Dyneema fabric
- Shoulder straps
- Stowable waist belt
- Large front pocket
Cons:
- It’s quite pricey
Gregory Miwok 24
3
Gregory Miwok 24 is a daypack with hydration that’s able to provide a great balance between weight, comfort, and features. The 24-liter model weighs less than two pounds in total and features a main compartment to accommodate one-day hiking needs. For some smaller items or gears, Gregory provides no less than eight exterior pockets. Whether it’s a quick trip or a casual hike, this bag is a perfect choice.
Just as you’d expect from the best daypack with hydration, Miwok features a hip belt with decent padding. As for the back panel, it’s quite flexible, but still solid enough to keep everything in place. If you’re interested in having this fantastic product, be prepared to spend about 120 bucks.
And in case you need another recommendation of daypacks, relax. We have a lot of them here! For female hikers, we highly recommend checking our coverage on the 13 best hiking daypacks for women.
What We Love
Provides a great balance of features, weight and comfort
Pros:
- 200D Poly materials
- Biosync suspension
- Ample of storage
- Hydration compatible
Cons:
- The front pouch isn’t too secure
Gregory Nano 20
2
Having spent about 10 years in the packing industry, Gregory knows a thing or two about a good hydration daypack. And that’s evident through their product line, which is consistently impressive from time to time. This also applies to the Gregory Nano 22, an excellent pack with Hydro’s 3D reservoir system. Furthermore, this lightweight gear also features some nice touches. You get a stretchy mesh pocket and a hip belt with decent padding.
As for the price tag, the Gregory Nano 22 is a truly competitive best daypack with hydration. Offered at around 80 bucks, it’s significantly cheaper than other similar products. If you’re planning a quick hike and don’t want to spend a lot on your pack, this would be a great alternative.
What We Love
Offered at competitive prices, with features that are no less attractive
Pros:
- 100D Nylon lining
- Biosync suspension
- Dual side compression
- Front mesh pocket
Cons:
- It has a small compartment
Salomon XA 25
1
Salomon XA 25 would be a logical choice if you’re planning to do some technical hikes. This hydration pack comes with a 25-liter capacity, a front water bottle pouch, and is fully compatible with a hydration reservoir. Regarding toughness, there’s a water-resistant main compartment. Furthermore, the pack features YKK zippers, which are known to be tough against various types of abuse.
You can get this daypack with hydration for around 180 bucks. However, you should know that the XA 25 isn’t very versatile. It’s packed with too many technical features for a casual hike. And for the sake of lightweight, Salomon decided to get rid of the webbing hip belt and shoulders. This makes the pack a little more uncomfortable to wear, although it’ll allow you to move more quickly.
What We Love
Packed with tons of technical features, great for long-distance hikes
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Stash pockets for essentials
- Sternum strap construction
- MotionFit harness system
Cons:
- It’s not very versatile
