The original hands-free hydration system for active adventurers. It’s a claim that’s hard to beat, right? For decades, the name CamelBak has been synonymous with hitting the trail without stopping. But a modern camelbak hiking backpack is so much more than just a water reservoir. It’s your entire adventure hub, designed to keep you moving comfortably for miles.
We took one of their popular models out on the trail to see if it lives up to the hype. You know, beyond just holding water. From organization to carry comfort, here’s what we found after putting it through it’s paces on some rugged terrain.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Camelbak Hiking Backpack
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Lightweight Hydration Backpack, Running Backpack with 2L Water Bladder,…
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9.7 |
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Teton Oasis Hydration Backpack – Lightweight Water Pack with…
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9.5 |
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Maelstrom Hydration Hiking Backpack with 2L/3L Water Bladder, High…
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9.2 |
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CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack for Hiking and…
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9.0 |
Read Review |
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CamelBak Hydrobak Bike Hydration Pack Lapis Blue/Atomic Blue 2.0,…
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8.8 |
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CamelBak Hydrobak Bike Hydration Pack Black/Graphite 2.0, 50oz
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8.5 |
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CamelBak Hydrobak Light Bike Hydration Backpack 50oz, Serenity Blue
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8.3 |
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CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Mountain Bike Hydration Backpack Black, 100oz
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8.1 |
Read Review |
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CamelBak Rogue Hydration Pack 85oz, Black/Graphite
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7.8 |
Read Review |
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CamelBak Classic Bike Hydration Pack Graphite/Black, 85oz
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7.6 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Camelbak Hiking Backpack
Lightweight Hydration Backpack, Running Backpack with 2L Water Bladder, Hydro Water Daypack for Cycling Hiking Rave for Men Women
The NEVO RHINO Lightweight Hydration Backpack is designed to keep you moving and hydrated without weighing you down. At a super light 8.5 ounces for the pack itself, it adds minimal burden so you can focus on your activity. The included 2-liter water bladder is made from BPA-free, food-grade PEVA material, ensuring your water tastes clean.
A secure hose clamp and a leakproof bite valve mean you get fast water flow when you need it, and absolutely no drips or leaks when its locked—no more soggy gear. Comfort is key for any long outing. This hydration pack features multi-adjustable shoulder straps and a chest strap that can be fine-tuned for a perfect, ergonomic fit on your torso. The soft air mesh back panel is a standout feature, promoting airflow to keep your back cooler and reduce sweat buildup.
Its made from a tough, waterproof and tear-resistant PU coated nylon fabric that can handle up to 25 pounds of gear, ready for whatever your day throws at it. Storage is thoughtfully organized. The main compartment uses a bidirectional zipper for easy access to the water bladder sleeve.
Teton Oasis Hydration Backpack – Lightweight Water Pack with Bladder for Hiking, Running, Cycling, Biking – 18L/22L Sizes – Sewn-in Rain Cover – Fits Men and Women
The Teton Oasis Hydration Backpack is designed to keep you moving and hydrated without weighing you down. Its core purpose is simple: provide easy access to water and organized gear storage for a wide range of activities, from long trail hikes to intense bike rides and daily runs. The included 2-liter hydration bladder is a central feature, with a kink-free sip tube and a push-lock cushioned bite valve that prevents leaks and makes drinking intuitive.
A wide opening allows you to add ice cubes easily, and the insulated sleeve helps maintain a cooler water temperature for hours, which is a real bonus on hot days.
Comfort is critical for any pack you wear for extended periods, and the Oasis is built with this in mind. It has a low-profile, athletic cut that fits men, women, and youth comfortably. The shoulder straps are padded with high-density foam and covered in breathable mesh to reduce sweat and pressure points.
They are fully adjustable, along with the chest strap, letting you dial in a secure, bounce-free fit that moves with your body, not against it.
With 18L and 22L size options, you get ample organized storage for essentials beyond water. The main compartment features a butterfly opening for quick access to your gear, and weather-guarded zippers add a layer of protection from the elements. A handy bungee cord system on the front is perfect for securing a jacket or helmet.
Maelstrom Hydration Hiking Backpack with 2L/3L Water Bladder, High Flow Bite Valve Camping Daypack Lightweight (2.Orange, 2L Bladder)
The Maelstrom Hydration Hiking Backpack with 2L/3L Water Bladder is built to keep you moving comfortably and hydrated on your adventures. Its a 20-liter pack that balances organization and simplicity, so you can focus on the trail ahead instead of fumbling for your gear.
Organization is key with this pack. The main compartment handles your bulkier items like a spare layer or a first-aid kit. Up front, a built-in pocket keeps your phone and wallet secure.
There’s a specific spot for your sunglasses up top, and lower pockets let you grab smaller items without taking the pack off. If your activity requires a helmet, it stashes neatly between the outer and middle pockets. Even the bottom has a dedicated pocket for tools or other outdoor essentials, making everything has a place.
Staying hydrated is effortless. The pack includes a 2-liter, leakproof water bladder made from 100% food-grade material.
It has a wide opening, which makes filling it and cleaning it a straightforward task. A separate, insulated compartment houses the bladder and can keep your water cool for hours with an ice pack. If you need more capacity, the bladder is replaceable and the system supports up to a 3-liter size. The drinking hose features bilateral outlets for flexible routing.
The high-flow bite valve is designed for easy drinking.
CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack for Hiking and Biking – 50oz, Stormy Sea/Mango
The CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids Hydration Backpack is built for young adventurers who are ready to hit the trail. It’s designed specifically for hiking and biking, with a 50-ounce reservoir to keep them sipping and hydrated all day long. The Stormy Sea and Mango color scheme is bright and fun, perfect for any kid. This isn’t just a water carrier; it’s a pack that helps them carry their own gear and fosters a sense of independence. A key feature is the ventilated harness.
This isn’t just about comfort—it’s about keeping them cool. The back panel allows air to flow between the pack and your childs back, reducing that sweaty, sticky feeling during a long ride or a sunny hike. The materials are both lightweight and durable, so the pack won’t weigh them down but can definitely handle the rough and tumble of outdoor play. It’s made to last through many seasons of adventure. Organization is where this pack really shines for kids.
The integrated tool organization gives them specific spots to stow their favorite things. Maybe it’s a multi-tool, a compass, or a small flashlight. Having a place for everything means less time digging around and more time enjoying the journey. For their most prized finds, like a special rock or a lucky coin, there’s a secure zippered pocket. This keeps those little treasures safe and sound, giving you both peace of mind. Then there’s the stretch overflow pocket.
CamelBak Hydrobak Bike Hydration Pack Lapis Blue/Atomic Blue 2.0, 50oz
The CamelBak Hydrobak Bike Hydration Pack in Lapis Blue/Atomic Blue 2.0 is a streamlined hydration solution built for riders who value simplicity and function. With its 50-ounce capacity, it’s perfectly suited for your shorter rides, training sessions, or those quick after-work adventures where you want to travel light but stay well-hydrated. The core of this pack is the Crux Reservoir, which is designed to deliver about 20 percent more water per sip compared to some older designs.
This means you spend less effort drinking and more effort riding. The reservoir also features an ergonomic handle that makes filling it at the tap and sliding it into the pack a straightforward task, with no awkward fumbling. Comfort on the bike is crucial, and the Hydrobak adresses this with a ventilated design. The breathable air mesh back panel, combined with a mesh harness, promotes airflow against your back to help you stay cooler.
This system wicks away moisture and reduces that clammy feeling, ensuring the pack feels secure without becoming a burden. The overall design is minimalist, stripping away any unnecessary bulk or weight. This compact profile means it sits close to your body, minimizing bounce and allowing for a full range of motion, which is especially appreciated on technical trails or during aggressive climbs. For your small essentials, the pack includes a secure, zippered pocket.
CamelBak Hydrobak Bike Hydration Pack Black/Graphite 2.0, 50oz
The CamelBak Hydrobak Bike Hydration Pack Black/Graphite 2.0, 50oz is a streamlined hydration solution built for cyclists who value simplicity and function. This pack is designed to keep you hydrated and moving on shorter rides, trail sessions, or any quick adventure where you need hands-free access to water without the bulk of a larger backpack. At its core is the Crux Reservoir, which holds 50 ounces of fluid.
Its improved design delivers about 20 percent more water per sip compared to older models, meaning you spend less time sucking and more time riding. The ergonomic handle makes it straightforward to pull out of the pack and refill, which is a nice touch when your at a trailhead or sink. The reservoir is also easy to clean, which helps maintain your hydration system over the long term. Comfort is key, especially when your working up a sweat.
The Hydrobak uses a ventilated air mesh back panel combined with a mesh harness. This system allows air to flow between the pack and your back, significantly reducing heat buildup and moisture. The result is a cooler, more comfortable fit that prevents the pack from feeling like a soggy blanket on longer efforts. It’s lightweight and compact by design, so it stays secure and out of the way while you focus on the ride.
CamelBak Hydrobak Light Bike Hydration Backpack 50oz, Serenity Blue
The CamelBak Hydrobak Light Bike Hydration Backpack in Serenity Blue is built for riders who prioritize simplicity and comfort on their adventures. This 50-ounce hydration pack strips away the bulk but keeps the essential features you need for a long day on the trail or a quick after-work ride.
Starting with its core construction, the Hydrobak Light lives up to its name. It uses lightweight and durable materials throughtout, ensuring it won’t weigh you down before you even add water.
The main event is, of course, the integrated 50-ounce Crux reservoir. It’s easy to fill, easy to clean, and features the classic CamelBak bite valve that lets you drink without breaking stride. Staying hydrated becomes effortless, keeping your focus on the path ahead.
Where this pack really shines is in its commitment to keeping you cool. The Air Support Light Back Panel is a key feature.
It’s designed with body mapping technology to create channels for air to flow between the pack and your back. This efficient ventilation significantly reduces that sweaty, sticky feeling that can build up during intense efforts. Paired with the ventilated harness, which is also lightweight and breathable, you get a system that promotes airflow across your shoulders and back.
CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Mountain Bike Hydration Backpack Black, 100oz
The CamelBak M.U.L.E. 12 Mountain Bike Hydration Backpack is built for riders who need reliable hydration and smart gear access without any fuss. This 100-ounce pack gets you through long, demanding trails, and its recent redesign focuses on making your ride smoother and more comfortable from start to finish. At the core of this system is the Crux Reservoir. It holds a full 100 ounces of water and is designed to deliver 20 percent more water per sip compared to older models.
That means you stay hydrated faster, with less effort. The Quicklink connection on the reservoir makes refilling and cleaning straightforward—no complicated parts to fiddle with after your ride. To keep your hydration tube from bouncing around, the Magnetic Tube Trap secures it magnetically to your chest strap. It’s always right where you need it for a quick drink, and the magnet is strong enough to hold it even on rough decents.
Comfort is crucial, and the Air Support Back Panel is a standout feature. It uses Body Mapping Technology to channel air flow precisely where your back gets hottest. This targeted ventilation helps keep you cooler and drier, which is a game-changer on summer rides. The overall fit is ergonomic, using premium materials that move with you instead of against you, reducing fatigue over many miles. Storage on the M.U.L.E. 12 is thoughtfully organized.
CamelBak Rogue Hydration Pack 85oz, Black/Graphite
The CamelBak Rogue Hydration Pack 85oz in Black/Graphite is built for riders who need reliable hydration without the fuss. It centers around the 85oz Crux Reservoir, which is designed to deliver about 20 percent more water per sip compared to older models. This means you spend less effort getting a good drink and more focus on the trail.
The reservoir includes an ergonomic handle that makes it easy to lift in and out of the pack, and a simple on/off lever on the bite valve helps prevent leaks when your not using it. One of the most practical features is the Quick-Access Refill system. A dedicated external fill flap on the pack lets you add water directly to the reservoir without having to pull the entire bladder out. This saves time at the trailhead or a quick stop, keeping you moving faster.
To manage the hose, the Magnetic Tube Trap is a clever detail. A magnet on the shoulder strap snaps the bite valve securely in place, so it doesn’t swing around, yet it remains instantly accessible when you need a drink. Comfort over long distances is crucial, and the Rogue addresses this with its Breathable Comfort design. The back panel uses air mesh to create a lightweight, ventilated layer between you and the pack.
CamelBak Classic Bike Hydration Pack Graphite/Black, 85oz
The CamelBak Classic Bike Hydration Pack in Graphite/Black is a purpose-built hydration solution for cyclists who prioritize performance and comfort on long rides. At its core is the 85-ounce Crux Reservoir, which is designed to deliver water efficiently. Its unique design provides about 20 percent more water per sip compared to some older models, meaning you spend less effort sucking and more time focused on the road or trail.
The integrated handle makes filling and carrying the reservoir a simple task, and the reliable on/off lever at the bite valve gives you positive control to prevent leaks before you sip, a crucial feature when your gear is in the pack with you. Comfort over distance is where this pack truly shines. The breathable back panel uses a air mesh design to create a layer of ventilation between the pack and your back. This helps manage heat and moisture, keeping you cooler and drier as you ride.
This is complemented by the ventilated mesh harness system, which secures the pack snugly without feeling restrictive. The harness allows air to flow across your shoulders and chest, providing a secure, breathable fit that you’ll appreciate on climbs and during those multi-hour adventures. It’s lightweight construction means you hardly notice it’s there, except for the easy access to water. Safety and practical storage are thoughtfully integrated.
Camelbak Hiking Backpack Buying Guide
A pioneer in hydration offers trail-tested integrated systems. This means you’re not just buying a bag to carry water; you’re getting a complete, leak-resistant solution designed for movement. Choosing teh right one comes down to matching its features to your typical hike. Let’s look at the key factors.
Hydration Reservoir Capacity
How much water do you really need? A short two-hour loop might be fine with a 1.5-liter reservoir. But for a full day in the sun or a strenuous climb, a 3-liter capacity is a safer bet. Consider if the pack has a quick-disconnect hose for easy refills without removing the whole bladder—it’s a small feature that makes a big difference when you’re tired.
Overall Pack Volume & Organization
Beyond water, where does your gear go? A 20-liter pack is great for essentials and a light layer. If you carry a first-aid kit, lunch, extra clothing, and trekking poles, you’ll likely need 30 liters or more. Look for smart pockets: a secure spot for your phone, easy-access compartments for snacks, and external attachment points for a wet jacket. Good organization means you spend less time digging and more time hiking.
Fit and Ventilation
Ever finished a hike with a sore back and a sweat-soaked shirt? The right fit prevents that. Adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap are crucial for stability. A key feature is the back panel—does it have a tensioned mesh design that creates space between the pack and your back? This airflow is essential for keeping you cool and comfortable mile after mile. Make sure to try it on with weight if you can.
Durability and Material
Your pack takes a beating. It gets set on rough ground, brushed against rocks, and exposed to weather. Look for strong, ripstop nylon fabrics and robust zippers. Reinforced stitching at stress points, like the bottom of the pack and strap anchors, is a sign of quality. A durable camelbak hiking backpack is an investment that should last for countless adventures, so don’t skimp on construction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Camelbak Hiking Backpack
What makes a Camelbak different from a regular backpack?
It has a built-in hydration system. This means it comes with a water reservoir and a drinking tube. You can sip water hands-free without stopping to grab a bottle. It’s super convenient for staying hydrated on the trail.
How do you clean the hydration reservoir?
It’s easier than you might think. After your hike, empty any leftover water. You can wash it with warm, soapy water and a reservoir cleaning kit. Make sure to dry it completely before storing to prevent mold. Most parts are dishwasher safe too, which is a nice bonus.
Are these backpacks good for long hikes?
Absolutely. Camelbak offers packs in many sizes, from small daypacks to larger multi-day options. Look for one with good hip belts and chest straps for heavier loads. This helps distribute the weight so your shoulders don’t get sore.
Can I use it without the bladder for water?
Yes, you can. The hydration sleeve is separate. You can just take the bladder out and use the pack like a normal backpack. This is handy for everyday use or when you prefer to carry water bottles instead.
How much water do thay hold?
The reservoir size varies. Common sizes are 1.5, 2, or 3 liters. The backpack itself also has space for gear. So you get storage for your stuff and a lot of water, all in one system. It’s really efficient for hiking.
What if the drinking tube freezes in cold weather?
This can happen. An insulated tube cover helps a lot. Some Camelbak models come with these. You can also blow air back into the tube after drinking to clear it. This helps prevent the water from freezing inside the tube.
Are they comfortable to wear?
They are designed for comfort. Look for adjustable shoulder straps and breathable back panels. Trying one on with weight in it is the best way to check. A good fit makes a huge difference on a long day out.
Last Thoughts Before You Buy
Original hydration technology built for active trail days. It’s about having water ready without breaking your stride. This focus on easy access and hands-free drinking makes a real difference. You stay hydrated more consistently, which helps you feel better and hike farther. The convenience is simple but powerful, turning a basic need into a seamless part of your adventure.
When choosing gear, consider how it fits into your entire day on the trail. A good pack carries your essentials comfortably, but integrated hydration solves a core challenge. For many hikers, the practical design of a camelbak hiking backpack is the perfect match. It combines proven carrying comfort with the system that lets you drink on the move, so you can focus on the path ahead and enjoy your time outside.