This Season
 

How to Buy a Hydration Pack

Hydration packs differ from one another in their capacity to hold fluid, comfort of design, total weight and, of course, cost.

Related Searches:
    Difficulty:
    Easy

    Instructions

    Things You'll Need

    • Hydration Pack Cleaner
    • Hydration Pack Cleaning Kits
    • Hydration Pack Maintenance Kits
    • Hydration Packs
      • 1

        Shop at a large, reputable outdoor gear store, a place where the sales staff is likely to be knowledgeable and helpful and that has a reasonable guarantee and return policy.

      • 2

        Expect to spend anywhere from $30 to over $100 on a complete hydration system. A complete system includes a reservoir for fluids, a pack to carry the reservoir in, and any necessary tubing and flow valves.

      • 3

        Look for simplicity and durability if you're planning on using your pack for a variety of endurance activities. You can find a good pack for as little as $30 that holds about 70 oz. of fluid - enough water for a long-distance bike ride.

      • 4

        Decide how much liquid you'll need your hydration pack to hold and how much weight you're willing to carry. Reservoirs will hold anywhere from 60 to over 200 oz. of fluid.

      • 5

        Consider the importance of the following features: ease of cleaning, capacity to hold other gear, reflector strips for greater visibility in low-light conditions, a drip-free valve, and a full-length side zipper for ease of loading a full reservoir.

      • 6

        Look for the following for comfort: ergonomically designed and padded shoulder straps; sternum and waist straps to keep the pack steady; and breathable lining to keep you cool.

      • 7

        Consider a lumbar-style hydration pack for activities where you'll need your center of gravity low, such as mountain biking. These are similar to fanny packs and have extra space for a jacket or snacks.

      • 8

        Ask a salesperson (or search online) for a hydration system specially tailored for the activity you'll most likely use it for. There are packs designed for road biking, mountain biking, snow sports and hot-weather sports.

    Tips & Warnings

    • Get a pack specially designed for snow sports if you'll be using it in cold conditions. Such packs will have insulated tubing to prevent freezing and are designed to fit underneath a parka.

    • Consider just purchasing a reservoir that will fit inside your backpack, converting it to a hydration pack. These run as low as $10 or $15 and allow for maximum versatility.

    • Buy a hydration pack with a warranty, and make sure it's returnable in case you need to make adjustments.

    Related Searches

    Read Next:

    Comments

    • Nov 22, 2005
      Do not try to do serious, long runs with a fanny pack hydrator.

    You May Also Like

    • Pros and Cons of Hydration Backpacks

      Hydration packs have built-in water reservoirs, with a hydration tube extending to the wearer's mouth. They come in a variety of sizes...

    • How to Use a Hydration Pack

      Hikers and backpackers of old have long carried their drinking water in a canteen, water sling or, more recently, sports bottle. The...

    • About Hydration Packs

      Hydration packs are designed to provide a sufficient amount of liquid to sustain physical exertion involved in an activity. Hydration packs were...

    • How to Dry Your Hydration Pack

      Hydration packs are bladders made of a type of plastic material that holds water during outdoor activities. Designed to replace traditional water...

    • How to Clean Water Packs

      Hydration packs, also known as water packs, revolutionized outdoor enthusiasts' drinking habits when they first arrived on the scene. No more stopping...

    • How to Buy a Select Hydration System Backpack

      Hydration backpacks are used by runners, cyclists, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Serving as an alternative to water bottles, the packs are...

    • How to Use a CamelBak HydroBak

      CamelBak is best known for its backpack hydration systems. These systems consist of a reservoir and a tube that allows for hands-free...

    • How to Clean a Hydration Pack

      The key to getting the most life, use and value out of your outdoor gear is taking good care of it. Keeping...

    • Where to Buy Lighter Life Food Packs

      Lighter Life, based in the United Kingdom, offers consumers weight loss and weight management products in a direct-sales format. While the company...

    • How to Make a Hydration Pack

      Hydration pack systems are a useful piece of equipment for an outdoor or sports enthusiast. Whether you are hiking, jogging or biking...

    • How to Choose a Hydration Pack

      A hydration pack is a great choice to enhance outdoor activities, such as running, hiking or cycling. The pack consists of a...

    • How to Use a Hydration Backpack

      Whether you're biking a backcountry trail, hiking up a mountainside or skiing a remote slope, staying hydrated is the key to your...

    • How to Use a Reservoir for a Hydration Pack

      Maintaining proper hydration is vital when you're engaging in any kind of physical activity. For some activities, carrying water bottles or stopping...

    • How to Convert a Pelican Case to a Backpack

      Pelican cases have long been the trusted protective equipment for a variety of high-cost technological gadgetry. The people who use them most...

    • DIY Hydration Pack

      Hydration packs and bladders slip over a bag, wrap around the waist or attach to kayaks and canoes. Many outdoor gear makers...

    • How to Clean & Dry a Hydration Backpack

      On the trail, a hydration backpack can provide the hydration required during a long hike. Mold and bacteria can begin to grow...

    • How to Wear a Camelback Hydration Pack

      CamelBak hydration systems are backpacks that contain a water reservoir and flexible drinking tube, making it easy to stay hydrated on the...

    • How to Use Gel Packs for Pet Hydration

      It can be a challenge to provide fresh water to pets while traveling. It's not always possible to include water dishes or...

    • Water Filters & Containers for Hiking

      Never are people more aware for their need for water as when it is not available. When hiking, it is important to...

    • Directions for a High Sierra Hydration Pack

      Comments. You May Also Like. Rockrider Hydration Pack Instructions. The Rockrider Hydration Pack is made by British company Decathlon. The Rockrider is...

    Follow eHow

    Related Ads