🎒Best Backpack Hydrators for 2020

Gone are the days when tourists took a flask or water bottle with them on a hike, hiking or cycling. Much more convenient is a hydrator. This outdoor drinking system frees up your hands and saves you the time you do not have to stop to retrieve your drinking container and take a sip or two.

The editorial staff of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offers you an overview of quality hydration packs for a backpack for 2020.

What is it and what is it used for

Basically, a hydrator is a special device that allows you to drink water while driving. Modern backpacks are equipped with a special pocket, where a container is put in - a bag made of dense polyethylene with a flexible hose for supplying water. The hose has a valve that allows water to flow into the tourist's mouth when pressed. No hand manipulation required. This device is convenient for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as athletes: runners, climbers, cyclists, snowboarders, skiers. There are only positive reviews about hydrators: "Simple, easy, convenient, safe."

What are: types, shapes, volumes

Hiking drinking systems differ in categories:

• For tourists.

These hydropacks are multifunctional. While driving, water can be drunk through a hose, using a "pacifier", in small doses, and at a halt, suspended by the handle, for example, from a tree branch, the "drinker" turns into a "washbasin", a good stream will easily fill the kettle if you need to cook stew, and the source is not nearby. This container holds up to 3 liters. The waterproof bag is provided with thermal insulation to maintain the original temperature of the liquid poured into the hydraulic receiver. You can carry the hydropack directly in your backpack, as well as in your hand using a special handle.

• For cyclists.

A small hydration pack, elongated shape, for even distribution of the load on the cyclist's back. The drinking pipe must have a cap that tightly covers the mouthpiece. The material from which the valve is made is soft and comfortable for the lips - you can drink directly while riding.

• For skiers / snowboarders.

The water tank is adapted for use in low temperature conditions. The ideal hydropack holds 1.5 liters. The shape of backpacks with a built-in hiking "drinker" is streamlined. The material is breathable, lightweight. This design is easy to hide under the equipment, it will not hinder movement. This design is specially designed for extreme conditions.

• For military personnel.

Military models are equipped with thermal insulation covers, material color - camouflage.Volume - at least 2 liters. The hydrator has a tight-fitting lid to prevent leakage. The neck of the container is like an army flask.

Kinds:

• Complete set with hydraulic system;
• A water container designed to be carried in a backpack, bag and other carriers.
• With a valve of the transport system closing;
• With a valve of the operating system - with the function of "smart nipple": the liquid enters when the valve is bitten;
• With short tube at right angles;
• With a long tube at a 180 degree angle;
• With a volume of 1.5 to 3.5 liters;
• Without a cover;
• With a cover: made of plastic, silicone, fabric material;
• With a thermal protective layer.

Top manufacturers and brands

Which company is better to buy Russian-made or give preference to foreign brands To find the answer to this question, you should first familiarize yourself with the best representatives of the industry for the production of drinking systems for tourists, military personnel and athletes.

The "Magnificent Seven" of companies looks like this:

• CamelBak

The company represents the largest selection of hydraulic systems for all occasions: for travelers, "survivalists", athletes, army men. The brand owes its appearance to paramedic Michael Edson, who in 1988 created a unique water supply system that can be used without hands. Today the hydraulic systems market is 80 percent filled with the products of this company.

• Flyye Industries

Chinese firm. Founded in 2006 and has already gained a strong position as a supplier of quality replicas of professional equipment of various brands. One of the lines is military-style hydrators. Flyye Industries products are inexpensive, popular models of good quality.

• Deuter

German brand. The company was founded in 1898. Hans Deuter decided to take up the production of sacks and postal bags. His brainchild has taken its own niche in the market. In 1910, due to the demand for military equipment, the company began to produce backpacks, tents and other goods needed by the military. Since 1934, the production of sports equipment begins. Customers liked these new items so much that Deuter could no longer abandon the sports theme.

• Salomon

French manufacturer of sporting goods. Known since 1947. The company was founded by François Salomon, his wife and son Georges. The first successes of the company were the development of the meil carres ski bindings and the first cable bindings. Later, the company begins to produce goods not only for skiers, but also for snowboarders and representatives of other active sports.

• Source

The Israeli company Source Vagabond Systems, which has existed for over 20 years, is known in the world for high-quality drinking systems, which have found application both in army life and in civilian life. The designers made sure that tourists and athletes using Source brand products do not have stomach ache from stagnant water, so the drinking systems of this brand have an antibacterial layer.

• Fox racing

The brand appeared in 1974 thanks to Jeff Fox, who organized a firm to import motocross motorcycles. Over time, the company grew and began to produce ammunition for motorcycle racers. Then a line of sportswear appears, a little later - accessories for people leading an active lifestyle. The popularity of Fox models is growing every year.

• Crystal Creek Outdoor Gear

American trade mark. As the creators say: “Crystal Creek Outdoor Gear is a family-owned business that specializes in outdoor gear. We'll make sure our gear keeps you active, safe and connected! "

There are also not so well-known companies on the market that supply quite good-quality goods. However, the products of the above brands are a priori of high quality. Therefore, when choosing which hydrator is better to buy, it is enough to remember well-known brands.

What to look for when choosing and buying a hydropack

The selection criteria are based on 5 "whales":

• It is important what material the container is made of:

1. If it is plastic, it should be free of harmful impurities. The best option is a product with a BPA-free or FDA rating, which means: plastic is used without chemicals that negatively affect health.
2. If it is polyurethane, then thoroughly rinse and dry the hydropack before use. Remaining liquid in the container will provoke a musty smell and an unpleasant aftertaste.

• Additional functionality:

1. Thermal protective layer on the container. It is needed so that the water does not heat up or cool below the permissible rate. This allows the drinking system to be used both in summer and winter.
2. Accessories for carrying on the back, in the hands, for use during a halt. The hydropack can even turn into a washbasin, if the tourist has such a desire.

• Liquid volume.

What is the duration of the trip taken by the camping "drinker" - you need to know in advance. A short bike ride within the city limits means that the amateur athlete will be able to use a small supply of water. If you are going on a hike into the forest, you should get a 3-liter "balloon".

• Brand as a quality guarantee.

Manufacturing firms that have earned an impeccable reputation will not allow products with imperfections to be released for sale. When choosing a hydropack, a proven brand should become a reference point.

• How much is.

Buying a travel hydraulic system is not an opportunity to try to save money. You can find goods on the market for 200-400 rubles, but it is better not to buy such things. They are completely of poor quality, with a short operational life, starting to flow almost after the first weeks of use, made of plastic of the lowest sample, and therefore hazardous to health. How much does a quality product cost? At least 500-1000 rubles, with additional functions - even more expensive.

Rating of quality hydrators for 2020

The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" present a rating of the best models of drinking systems, based on customer reviews.

Top 5 best drinking systems for tourists

6 position: Splav

Sold at an average price of 590 rubles.

Chinese production. The design is designed to be carried in a backpack with a special pocket. 3 liters. Weight - 170 g. With removable flexible hose, narrow neck, shut-off valve with rotary locking mechanism.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

5th place: GoFriend Outdoor Hydration Bladder

Sold for 1200 rubles.

Designed for 3 liters. With screw cap, sliding clasp. Made of food grade EVA plastic. Durable, long service life. Dimensions: 40.5 x 20 cm.Weighs 249 g.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

4th place: Fox Convoy Hydration

It costs 6 thousand rubles.

3 liter reservoir. Material - polyester, back panel made of EVA foam, built-in ventilation ducts. The backpack is equipped with additional pockets for tools, glasses and other accessories.

Benefits:

Disadvantages:

3rd place: Platypus Big Zip LP 3 l

It costs about 3.5 thousand rubles.

The weight is only 170 g, but the volume is 3 liters. Made of plastic polyurethane, safe. With removable hose. Design is simple, modest in size, does not require a large carry bag Dimensions: 43.5 x 22 cm. According to buyers, this model is ideal for runners.

Pros:

Minuses:

2nd place: Camelbak 3L Crux Reservoir

Cost $ 37.88.

3 liters. Weight 235 g. Made of thermoplastic polyurethane. The Freemove drinking system keeps water cool even on a hot day. Container with a measuring scale. The set includes brushes for cleaning and other accessories for the care of the hydrator.

Pros:

Disadvantages:

1st place: Aquatic Way Hydration Bladder Water Reservoir

It sells for an average price of about $ 12.

Convenient model designed for 2 liters of liquid.With a large opening for pouring water, with thermal insulation. Convenient design. Product dimensions: 3 x 16.5 x 38 cm.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Top 4 best hydrators for skiers and snowboarders

4th position: Salomon Bag Skin Pro 10 Set

Sold for 9900 rubles.

Convenient for runners and skiers. With an anatomical fit and low weight, which is important for the athlete. With main compartment compression strap. Hydrator - 1.5 liters - with multiple attachments.

Pros:

Minuses:

Bronze: Hydrapak First Wave Water Bladder

Costs 3.5 thousand rubles

For 2 liters, weight 150 g. Made of thick polyurethane, durable, not afraid of low and high temperatures. Such drinking systems are in honor of "survivalists" and army men.

Pros:

Minuses:

"Silver": STICH PROFI

It costs 4 165 rubles.

2 liter reservoir. Molle accessory. A container with a wide mouth. With removable tube 110 cm. Large range of colors. Dimensions: 20x40 cm.

Pros:

Disadvantages:

Gold: Source Military Hydration Systems

Available for $ 40.

2 liters. Weight 190 g. The drinking tube is 107 cm long. The neck width is 9 cm. The model is made of high-temperature polyurethane. Capacity with indexing scale.

Advantages:

Minuses:

Top 4 best hydropacks for cyclists

4th place: AOTU / Hydration Bladder

Costs $ 4.98.

Model number: AT6602. Unisex. It is used for water in a temperature range from - 20 to 50 degrees C. Foldable, tube with a wide opening.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

3rd place: Maleroads

Average price is $ 40.

Dimensions: 43 x 22x13 cm. For 2 liters. Hose - 95 cm. High density food grade polyethylene container. There is indexing on the "flask". The backpack is equipped with ventilation holes on the back, with an aluminum liner for thermal insulation.

Pros:

Minuses:

2nd place: Helena

It costs 5,300 rubles.

Camelbak brand product. Country of origin Philippines. Dimensions: 26: 5 x 25 x 48 cm.Type CRUXTM. Designed with breathable 3D mesh, adjustable waistband and weight compression, and a breathable back panel.

Advantages:

Minuses:

1st place: K.U.D.U.

Sold for 12 thousand rubles.

Camelbak brand. Chinese production. Model with certified back protection level II, hardwearing, durable, with elastic straps on the chest. CRUXTM, volume 3 liters. With a breathable back panel. Dimensions: 30 x 21 x 53 cm.

Advantages:

Minuses:

The finest military drinking systems for extreme conditions

5th place: Osprey Hydraulics

It costs 4 thousand rubles.

2 liters. Weight 310 g. Dimensions: 2.9 x 16.5 x 38 cm. Made of metallocene polyethylene. BPA free. Hose length 6.35 mm. The water flow is fast. Tank with scale.

Advantages:

Minuses:

4th position: SOURCE TACTICAL 70 OZ, ACU-digital

Average price is $ 50.

SOURCE brand. It costs about 2 thousand rubles. Volume 3 liters. Made of high quality plastic without harmful chemical additives. The set includes a military-style case.

Pros:

Disadvantages:

3rd place: FFW MOLLE 70 OZ, ACU-digital

You can find it for 2 thousand rubles.

2.1 liters. With MOLLE system, with thermal fabric cover. The hose is adapted for use with any army flask. The hydrator can be used together with a gas mask.

Advantages:

Minuses:

2nd position: HYDRAMAX 120OZ, ACU-digital

Sold at an average price of 2,000 rubles.

MOLLE system, volume 3.5 liters. A container with a hermetically sealed lid, similar to army flasks. The model can be used together with a gas mask.

Pros:

Disadvantages:

1st position: HYDRATION PACK

Average price $ 48.

Camelback model. The reservoir is designed for 3 liters. There is a mount, so the design is suitable for placing not only in a backpack.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Models for children

How to choose a good drinking system for a child The answer is obvious: the hydropack should be made of clean, safe materials, however, like products for adults, with a tight-fitting, but nevertheless effortlessly opening, "flask" lid, and the mouthpiece must be with protective cap. Children's drinking systems usually have a 1.5 liter reservoir. It is better that the "drinker" is already built into a backpack with a comfortable back with ventilation inserts and locks.

The most popular are:

Bronze: CamelBak Skeeter Kid's Hydration Pack

The average cost is 2500 rubles.

Capacity 1 liter. High-temperature polyurethane tank with top seal, wide mouth. Hydropack with measuring scale. Has a mount. Goods with a guarantee.

Pros:

Minuses:

Silver: Osprey Moki 1.5 Kid's Bike Hydration Backpack

It costs around $ 40.

With an additional zipped pocket. With reflective inserts for safe movement in the dark. With a convenient valve.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

"Gold": CamelBak Mini MULE Kids

Sell ​​for $ 69.

Children's bicycle set with the MULE drinking system. The reservoir is 1.5 liters. Lightweight, with pockets for small items, reflective inserts. With ergonomic handle and safety whistle. Product size 30-40 cm.

Advantages:

Disadvantages:

How to properly care for your hydrator

For the drinking system to serve for a long time:

1. A hydrator should have only one owner, this is the first rule of hygiene.
2. Only water can be used. Juices, dairy products, other drinks will clog the valve, it is problematic to flush it.
3. Be sure to rinse and dry after use.
4. It is unacceptable for the tube to dangle, this will reduce the service life.
5. If no brush is included, use a brush.
6. Do not hold the bag of water in the carrier next to objects that can push on it, this will deform the product.

How to clean properly

• If there is a screw cap, then brushes are used for cleaning, they may already be included in the kit.
• If the design is with a clip, wash by hand.
• The polyurethane bag can be washed in the dishwasher.In this case, a cloth is put inside the container so that the walls do not stick to each other.

DIY tips: how to make a hydropack with your own hands

A hiking drinking system is a necessary thing, every tourist who has walked more than one kilometer will say this. But such devices cost decently, it is not always possible to allocate the required amount for the purchase. However, DIYers can make a hydropack on their own.

What material and tools to use

To work at home you will need:

• Plastic container;
• Dropper;
• Scissors;
• Foil;
• The cloth;
• Scotch;
• Backpack.

Step-by-step instructions for making a hydropack:

1. Pierce the cork of the plastic bottle in two places so that the diameter of each hole is equal to the diameter of the dropper.
2. Cut the dropper tube near the roller, cut off the tip.
3. Insert a dropper tube with a roller and a mouthpiece into the first hole in the plug so that its end reaches the bottom of the container.
4. Insert a dropper tube with a needle into the second hole.
5. The roller, which was on the dropper, is connected to the mouthpiece, for this you need an adhesive tape.
6. The container is first wrapped in foil, using adhesive tape for strength.
7. The next step is to sew the container into the fabric. Better to use synthetic material.
8. Place the finished hydropack in your backpack pocket.

This invention does not have a long service life, and you need to ensure that the bottle is in an upright position. However, for a short trip or walk, a homemade hydropack will do just fine. But then it will not work well to rinse either the dropper or the bottle. To avoid illness, it is better to make a new one, and even better - to buy a high-quality "drinker" for tourists, which will last a long time.

Where to buy a good product

The specialty shops for tourists, fishermen and hunters are worth a look. A large selection of models can be found on Internet sites. Prices for products vary depending on the brand, volume, material from which the "flask" is made. If additional functionality is present, the cost becomes even higher. Many tourists boast that they are buying a perfectly tolerable Chinese-made device with Ali Express. Say, the most budget options will arrive by mail from China. For 200 rubles. However, the same customers literally a week later complain that the "jellyfish" is leaking, and even the specific smell of plastic will not disappear. A good product cannot cost less than 400 rubles. Models with heat protection, an antibacterial layer, and an additional fastening system are much more expensive. The average cost of a quality product is 1500-2000 rubles.

It is advisable to buy a product after examining it. Unfortunately, this cannot be done on trading sites. Therefore, buyers often make mistakes when choosing and buying.

Recommendations for buyers in the online store

How to determine a good seller or not:

1. He always indicates the brand of the product.
2. Provides a clear price tag.
3. Provides a photo of the product in the correct perspective so that the buyer can see the details.
4. The site has a description and detailed characteristics of the product.
5. Different payment methods are offered, there is a choice of delivery service.
6. It does not hurt to study customer reviews on other Internet sites and independent forums.

Observing these "rules of the game", ordering a good hydro package online is easy.

A hiking drinking system is an indispensable thing for a tourist or sportsman. Going out of town and not knowing if there is a spring or a river nearby, it is best to have a supply of clean water on your shoulders, in a backpack. Then the thirst is not terrible.

If you have experience in purchasing and using a hydrator, leave a comment.