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Best CamelBak Backpacks
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Capacity
The crux of a hydration backpack is its reservoir capacity. The amount of fluid/water that your hydration pack is capable of storing should be among the top 2 or 3 criteria at the very least. It is important to remember that a higher reservoir capacity is not always desirable. This is because this generally adds to the weight of the backpack and the heavier the backpack the more inconvenient it becomes to carry. As a rule of the thumb, 50 to 100 fluid ounces is adequate if you do intend to use it for very long distances. Most hikers, short distance runners, and cyclists will find this adequate. Sizes between 50 to 100 fluid ounces tend to be the most sought after and generally sell better than the other sizes. If you need your hydration pack for extremely long distances, or if you absolutely do not want to stop for a refill too often, then you should opt for a hydration pack with a reservoir capacity in excess of 100 fluid ounces.
Fit
A surprisingly large number of people struggle with this concept and to be fair it could be rather confusing at first glance. You could be forgiven for thinking why your gender should matter, it is only a hydration backpack after all, right? Well, not quite. It so happens that your gender does matter in the case of hydration packs made for one specific sex. If the product is designed for use by men and women as a number of CamelBak backpacks are then it is not an issue. However, backpacks that are made specifically for men should be used by men and likewise backpacks that are made specifically for women should be used by women. The reason for this is that the straps and belts that accompany a CamelBak hydration pack are designed keeping the anatomy in mind. Therefore, the ones intended for women will suit the female anatomy and the ones intended for use by men will suit the male anatomy. Of course, in exceptional cases, you will find that a men’s backpack fits a woman well or vice-versa but these are just that – exceptions. You cannot make a purchase based on exceptions. Kids backpacks have their own unique set of features and obviously, they cannot be used by an adult. However, the kids may use some of the women-specific backpacks as they may be fit properly in some cases. To sum up, stick to what the label says and do not assume that one size fits all.
Breathability
It is imperative that your backpack is well ventilated. Inadequate air circulation during your activities is not desirable and could have serious consequences in a few cases. Therefore, it is always best to go for a backpack which has great breathability. Virtually all CamelBak backpacks are more than adequate when it comes to breathability and ventilation, therefore you are unlikely to have any issues. It would still be in your best interests to actually check before purchasing. The climate in which you intend to use your backpack could also be an important factor. If it is cold all the time then you may be better off staying away from a backpack which has a lot of mesh.
Use
This is not as important as the criteria mentioned before this, but it is still worth mentioning. Every CamelBak backpack is designed keeping a specific activity in mind. It could be running, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, etc. While the crux of the hydration pack is by and large the same, there are subtle changes in design and features depending on the type of activity that it is produced for. Therefore, make sure to check what the CamelBak that you intend to buy has primarily been designed for and make sure that you are buying it for the same purpose.
Another way to verify if the CamelBak backpack is the one for you and is best fitted to the activity you intend to use it for is to check the customer reviews. By checking the customer reviews you are able to get a first-hand look at how the backpack performed for other customers who decided to go with the hydration backpack. This way you know if the backpack will hold up and excel you forward on your next adventure.
Top Ten CamelBak Backpacks
1. CamelBak M.U.L.E.
This has been one of CamelBak’s best selling hydration backpacks with good reason. It is an ideal mix of quality, aesthetic appeal, and class. The best part is that it will not burn a hole in your pocket. While its primary use is intended for mountain biking, you could just as well use it for virtually any other outdoor activity including hiking, jogging, etc.
Read moreCapacity
At 11 liters, the storage capacity is excellent.
Fit
This backpack fits great and as always with a CamelBak backpack, the straps are adjustable to ensure you can get the perfect fit.
Breathability
The various air channels in the back panel offer tremendous breathability. This ensures that your back is kept well ventilated and cool at all times.
Use
It is a decent price to way for a backpack as good as this with a CamelBak tag. Moreover, there are cheaper ones that are available in other colors. The M.U.L.E is available in myriad colors. Each color is impressive in its own way and you will have a pleasant headache trying to choose between them!
2. CamelBak Rogue
This impressive cycling hydration backpack is aimed primarily at those who are looking for slightly cheaper options. The CamelBak quality is ever present so you need not worry about there being a compromise between quality and price. There is a 2017 version of this, but this one is considerably better. Remember to double check when you buy; the model that comes later is not always an upgrade or better.
Read moreCapacity
3.3 liters. Not the highest storage capacity you will find, but given the price range, it is quite decent.
Fit
This backpack is one of the more sleeker and smaller on the list. With proper adjustments using the adjustable straps, it will fit great and be comfortable for any activity.
Breathability
This backpack has a breathable back and straps to ensure proper air flow is provided.
Use
It is very affordable and for its quality, it is great value for money. It is available in 4 colors namely, black, lemon green, pure blue, and racing red. You’ll never be short of options to choose from.
3. CamelBak Lobo
If you seek a top-notch CamelBak hydration backpack for mountain biking and external filling is one of your top priorities then the 2016 Lobo should be among your top choices. This is also a good option if you are not looking to carry around a lot of gear.
Read moreCapacity
At 3 liters the capacity is alright. You could argue that the capacity could be slightly better given the price, but overall it is still quite reasonable.
Fit
This backpack fits great as it has adjustable straps and the shape of it works well with your back arch ensuring a comfortable fit.
Breathability
The back panel has incredible ventilation which allows for a high level of breathability.
Use
The Lobo is available in 6 different colors. They are black, charcoal/white, charcoal/atomic blue, exuberance/charcoal, charcoal/ember, and imperial blue/charcoal. There is an additional storage compartment for anything you may want to dump. The reflective accents account for good visibility and ensure your safety even in a bad light.
4. CamelBak Classic
This is a CamelBak classic in more ways than just the name. It has been designed for both men and women and is primarily aimed at cyclists. Its compactness makes it an ideal companion for short distance rides.
Read moreCapacity
At 2 liters it is slightly on the lower side, but given the price and given the fact that its compactness is one of its plus points, it is ideal for people intending to use it for short distances.
Fit
Like many other CamelBak backpacks, this backpack comes equipped with breathable pockets along the back of the backpack and on the straps.
Breathability
The air mesh is extremely well ventilated. This gives the hydration pack great breathability which is so essential for backpacks.
Use
It is as good as it gets for a CamelBak classic. Admittedly it is not the biggest hydration pack in terms of capacity, but it is still worth the money. As with the earlier models discussed, the price varies slightly depending on the color chosen. It is available in four colors namely, black, lemon green, pure blue, and racing red. Choose the one which most catches your fancy.
5. CamelBak Cloud Walker 18
The Cloud Walker 18 always tends to make the favorite hydration backpack lists of hikers. It has a main pocket and other several ancillary ones to enable to organize your hikes in the most optimal and efficient manner possible. There is a removable reservoir for additional storage capacity which you may use as you see fit, keeping in mind your needs.
Read moreCapacity
This hydration backpack will hold 2.5 L of water, which means that no matter what adventure you find yourself, you will be hydrated.
Fit
This backpack feels more like a backpack and less like a hydration pack as it is quite bigger. It comes with adjustable straps to ensure you can fit the backpack perfectly to your body.
Breathability
The air mesh is extremely breathable which allows for great ventilation.
Use
This is a backpack that is slightly on the higher side considering its capacity. It does have in its favor its magnificent quality, aesthetic appeal, compactness, and ease of use. The Cloud Walker 18 is available in 3 colors.
6. CamelBak ThermoBak
This is another great backpack from CamelBak. This backpack is known for its sleek design and is lightweight. It is mainly used for running, hiking, or any long distance activity that you need to stay hydrated but wants something lightweight that will not add strain to your back.
Read moreCapacity
This backpack from CamelBak is one of their sleeker designs but still holds quite a bit of water to keep you hydrated. It will hold a maximum of 3 L of liquid which is plenty, without worrying that you will run out.
Fit
This backpack has a sleek design which molds nicely to your back, and the adjustable straps also make this a great backpack as you can adjust the fit to ensure you are comfortable.
Breathability
This backpack fits great against your back and molds to your body shape. It can get a bit tight against your back so you want to make sure that you loosen the straps a bit to allow for some air to flow between your back and the backpack.
Use
Overall, this backpack is highly rated and great for any long distance endurance activity as it holds a great amount of water to keep you hydrated and is lightweight to ensure it does not cause any inconvenience while you are performing your activities.
7. CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. Kids
If you are looking for a CamelBak hydration backpack for the young ones, you need to look no further. The Mini M.U.L.E has many of the qualities of its version for the adults whilst ensuring that the backpack is catered to the needs of the children.
Read moreCapacity
1.5 liters is close to the ideal storage capacity considering the target consumers.
Fit
It weighs less than 0.5 pounds. This has clearly been done to ensure that the younger ones are not inconvenienced by an overly heavy hydration pack.
Breathability
The air mesh is extremely breathable and ensures a high level of ventilation at all times.
Use
It is more or less what you would expect to pay for a backpack such as this of this quality. It is a good value for money. Its availability in 4 different colors which is certain to get the youngsters excited. The on/off lever helps in preventing leaks. Moreover, the nature of the handle makes refilling quick and efficient.
8. CamelBak Women's Daystar 16
For a woman who is serious about hydration and the outdoors, this CamelBak Women's Daystar 16 Crux Reservoir Hydration Pack will be her best friend. The newly added crux delivers 20% more per sip, so you can keep your liquids flowing and your speed going while hitting the trails.
Read moreCapacity
There is a main compartment where you can store bigger items, like sweaters and raincoats. But there is also a smaller front compartment that allows you to store smaller ticket items, like snacks, cell phones, and keys.
Fit
Because this backpack has been designed with women in mind, it has been engineered with a shorter back panel and an S-curve harness for closure.
Breathability
The back panel is lined with breathable mesh so that you stay well ventilated and hot air can escape to keep you cooler.
Use
This is the updated version of the original CamelBak Women's Daystar, and it comes with some great bells and whistles. For example, not only does the crux deliver more water per sip, but the ergonomic design of the handle makes it easy to refill, and the on and off lever that firmly stay in place stop it from leaking.
9. CamelBak BFM Desert Camo
This masterpiece is one of CamelBak’s finest. It is made for the long haul. You can every possible thing that you can think of in this and still be left with plenty of space to spare. It is extremely durable as well.
Read moreCapacity
It is naturally priced on the higher side given its capacity. 5.85 pounds is slightly heavy, but it is understandable given its incredible storage capacity. 48 liters, you can virtually pack anything and everything you want!
Fit
This backpack fits great and will mimic the feel of a normal backpack. Make sure to use the adjustable straps for the most comfortable fit.
Breathability
The back is nicely cushioned which allows for very good ventilation thereby making the BFM breathable at all times.
Use
The reservoir capacity is 3 liters or about 101 fluid ounces. In addition to this, the BFM has been designed in a way which enables you to pack 6 liters more if necessary (that is a total of 9 liters or about 304 liquid ounces). That is very impressive indeed. The BFM comes with an organizer and radio attachment to make your life more convenient
10. CamelBak Arete 18
The CamelBak Arete 18 is a fantastic all-around choice for backpackers or those who seek to keep their costs down and value high when looking for a CamelBak hydration system. This backpack is light, comfortable and affordable.
Read moreCapacity
It holds only 1.5 liters of water, so it is best suited for sightseeing trips around a city or a day hiking trip.
Fit
This backpack is a little bulkier than others on our list which means it has some great storage compartments as well as a great hydration system. With the use of the adjustable straps, you will be able to make this backpack comfortable for your next adventure.
Breathability
This backpack as many of the CamelBak has a mesh back and straps to maximize airflow and keep you cool.
Use
Like other CamelBaks on this list, the Arete has a crux to offer you 20% of a faster flow rate, an ergonomic handle that allows easy refilling and an on and off lever that prevents leakage. This backpack is made with a light nylon ripstop that ensures durability and is relatively light compared to other packs on our list. The Arete folds up nicely and compresses when you wish to pack it into a suitcase or backpack for your next new adventure hot spot.
Sources
- , 10 best hydration packs 2018, Article
