Mountain biking can take a lot of energy out of you and dehydrate you quickly. Dehydration can lead to headache, body aches, and fatigue. To prevent this, you can stay hydrated with a Camelbak. Camelbaks are high-quality hydration packs that are designed to carry more water than a regular bottle while staying comfortable on your back. With a Camelbak, you can drink throughout the day without having to stop your activity. If you’re interested in a mountain biking Camelbak, take a look at our compiled list below of some of the best options available online.
What is the Best Camelbak For Mountain Biking?
We have compiled for you the top 8 Best Camelbak For Mountain Biking in 2023. In this article we go through the products that we have used ourselves, checked what other users thought about them and we ranked them accordingly.
With years of experience with Mountain Biking Hydration Packs and having used several Camelbaks For Mountain Biking you can trust our review.
Moreover, you can scroll to the end of this review to see our mini buying guide as well as the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about Camelbaks For Mountain Biking.
1. CamelBak Octane XCT Hydration Pack
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 2 liters Weight: 0.68 pounds (0.31 kg) Size: 16.5 x 10.2 x 5.5 inches (42 x 26 x 14 cm) Backpack included: Yes |
The CamelBak Women’s Charm Hydration Pack, 50oz features a 2 liter water reservoir and a durably designed backpack. This hydration pack is a nice lightweight and comfortable pack with storage space for personal items. The shoulder straps are adjustable allowing for a secure fit. The drinking tube has a valve to close it to prevent leaks and a strap on the shoulder strap to help secure it. The water bladder has a large ergonomic opening that makes refilling and cleaning easy. There are some issues reported with leaking, but the lid needs careful attention to ensure it is properly threaded. This pack is also not well insulated for extreme temperatures. There are reflective details on the exterior for safety.
Pros
- Comfortable,
- Durable design,
- Lightweight,
- Storage space for personal items
Cons
- Not well insulated,
- Issues with leaking
2. CamelBak Women’s L.U.X.E. Mountain Bike Hydration Backpack
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 3 liters Weight: 1.3 pounds (0.59 kg) Size: 17.3 x 1.3 x 9.1 inches (44 x 3.3 x 23 cm) Backpack included: Yes Materials: Polyurethane |
The CamelBak Women’s L.U.X.E. Mountain Bike Hydration Backpack features a 3 liter water reservoir and a 10 liter storage capacity. The material is made of partially repurposed plastic and has a durable but lightweight design. This pack is covered by a lifetime warranty and is available in three different colors. It has a good amount of storage space for personal items but some users have complained that the straps are uncomfortable. The drinking tube has an on and off lever that helps to prevent leaks. The back panel has air flow channels to help provide maximum comfort. There is also a removable stability belt and adjustable sternum and shoulder straps for a secure fit.
Pros
- Good storage space,
- Lightweight,
- Available in 3 colors,
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Leaking issues,
- Uncomfortable
3. CamelBak HydroBak Light Bike Hydration Backpack
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 1.5 liters Weight: 0.82 pounds (0.37 kg) Size: 13.8 x 9.1 x 5.9 inches (35 x 23 x 15 cm) Backpack included: Yes |
The CamelBak HydroBak Light Bike Hydration Backpack features a 1.5 liter water reservoir. The lightweight and durable material makes this easy to carry for various outdoor activities. This pack also has a breathable back panel made with body mapping technology to keep this comfortable on the users back cool and dry. The shoulder straps are made with a breathable mesh material that also helps with comfort from heat, but they do not have any padding. There is a zippered pocket to store small personal items. The adjustable sternum strap allows for a secure fit for various body sizes. There are also reflective details and a loop for a light for safety. There is no insulation to protect your water from the extreme temperatures. This pack is covered by the lifetime CamelBak warranty.
Pros
- Easy to fill and clean,
- Lightweight,
- Extra storage for personal items,
- Available in a variety of colors
Cons
- Shoulder straps are not padded,
- No insulation
4. CamelBak Women’s Charm Hydration Pack
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 1.5 liters Weight: 0.33 pounds (0.15 kg) Size: 13 x 8.7 x 3.9 inches (33 x 22 x 10 cm) Backpack included: Yes |
The CamelBak Women’s Charm Hydration Pack, 50 oz features a 1.5 liter water bladder and a small pocket for storing a few personal items. The lightweight design of this hydration pack makes this a good choice for short hikes outdoors. It has a low profile to keep it from adding bulk. The mesh panels and shoulder straps keep it more lightweight and comfortable to wear. The water bladder features a large ergonomic opening that is easy to open and refill. Some have complained about leaks but others say the opening just needs to be closed properly. The exterior has reflective details to help the user be more noticeable in dim lighting. The drinking tube features a valve that helps prevent leaking when the user is not drinking and a tube trap to keep it secure on the shoulder strap.
Pros
- Lightweight,
- Low profile,
- Easy to fill the water reservoir,
- Manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Not much storage space,
- Trouble with leaks sometimes
5. CamelBak Octane 10 70 oz Hydration Pack
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 2 liters Weight: 1.32 pounds (0.6 kg) Size: 16.5 x 11.8 x 1.8 inches (42 x 30 x 4.5 cm) Backpack included: Yes Materials: Ventilated mesh Cleaning Kit: No |
The CamelBak Octane 10 70 oz Hydration Pack features a lightweight and durable design. The adjustable straps allow the pack to fit snugly against the body without irritation during running and other movement. The water tube has loops that hold it steady at your side. The bladder can hold up to 2 liters of water with storage room for additional flasks if needed. The material is a breathable mesh that makes it comfortable and lightweight. It is not waterproof, so care needs to be taken to ensure items don’t get wet. There are many pockets to allow for storage of various items.
Pros
- Lightweight,
- Several pockets for storage,
- Breathable material,
- Fits snug for comfort while running
Cons
- Not waterproof,
- No strap around the waist
6. CamelBak HydroBak Hydration Pack
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 1.5 liters Weight: 0.33 pounds (0.15 kg) Size: 12.6 x 8.5 x 3.9 inches (32 x 21.6 x 9.9 cm) Backpack included: Yes Materials: Polyester |
The CamelBak HydroBak Hydration Pack 50 oz features a compact and lightweight polyester design. The water reservoir holds 1.5 liters of water, and the reservoir is not removed to fill it. There is a separate pocket for small personal items. The sternum strap is made of a breathable mesh polyester for maximum comfort. The straps are adjustable so it fits securely on various body types. The lid needs to be screwed on correctly, otherwise it will leak. The bright colors of the material make this easy to spot in a dim lighting. This pack is also covered by a lifetime warranty to ensure satisfaction.
Pros
- Reservoir can be filled without removing it from the pack,
- Lightweight and compact,
- Breathable mesh straps,
- Bright colors
Cons
- Not much room for storing extra personal items,
- Can leak if lid is not screwed on correctly
7. CamelBak Classic Hydration Pack
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 2.5 liters Weight: 0.37 pounds (0.17 kg) Size: 15.2 x 8.7 x 4.5 inches (38.5 x 22 x 11.5 cm) Backpack included: Yes |
The CamelBak Classic Hydration Pack, 85oz features a 2.5 liter water reservoir with a small zippered pocket for storing personal items. This pack has breathable mesh shoulder straps and a mesh back panel to help keep the user as cool as possible. This is a lightweight design, and while not made with much storage space, it is made with a durable design that has a lifetime warranty through the manufacturer. The drinking tube is equipped with an on and off lever to help prevent leaks. The water reservoir has a large central opening making it easy to clean, fill, and add ice. This pack is also covered under the lifetime CamelBak warranty.
Pros
- Comfortable,
- Lightweight,
- Durable,
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Leaks if not sealed properly,
- Very little extra storage space
8. CamelBak Aurora Hydration Pack
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Capacity: 2.5 liters Weight: 0.44 pounds (0.2 kg) Size: 15.8 x 0.5 x 6.5 inches (40 x 1.2 x 16.5 cm) Backpack included: Yes |
The CamelBak Aurora Hydration Pack, 85oz features compact and lightweight design with a 2.5 liter water reservoir and a 2.5 liter storage capacity. The breathable mesh back panel and shoulder straps keep this light and comfortable for the user. The sternum and chest straps are both adjustable for a secure fit. The storage space for personal items includes a stretchy outer pocket that allows for flexibility in the size of items you can pack. The drinking tube comes with a lever that can switch from on to off to help prevent leaks. It also has a magnetic clip to help secure it to the shoulder strap. There is also a hook for your helmet and reflective details for safety. This pack is also covered by the lifetime CamelBak warranty.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact,
- Designed for women specifically,
- No drip switch on mouth tube,
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Hard to clean,
- Drinking tube is not removable
Verdict
To summarize, we have gone through dozens of Camelbaks For Mountain Biking and decided that 8 are worth your consideration. Out of these, the absolute Best Camelbak For Mountain Biking is CamelBak Octane XCT Hydration Pack which we highly recommend as our overall best.
If money is not an issue, you can consider CamelBak Women’s L.U.X.E. Mountain Bike Hydration Backpack as this is our Premium Pick.
Otherwise, there’s no shame in spending prudently, CamelBak HydroBak Light Bike Hydration Backpack is the Budget Option.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying Camelbaks For Mountain Biking
Hydration Pack Reservoir Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when getting a hydration bladder is the reservoir capacity! If you’re needing a hydration pack for a long trip, you aren’t going to want a reservoir with a small capacity. However, if you’re going on a short trip, you won’t want to lug around a ton of water on your back that you don’t need. Because of this, you should consider the length of time your trip will be and consider how much water you’ll need for that time. Then, find a hydration pack that has about that capacity for the perfect fit. When in doubt, feel the pack on your back and see if it’s too heavy for you.
Hydration Pack Gear Capacity
Before buying a hydration pack, you should consider what capacity pack you want to get. If you only plan to use your pack for short-term or low-energy activities like running or biking, you may want to consider a pack with a smaller capacity so it is easier to carry on your back. If you need a pack for long-term activities like hiking, hunting, or camping, you may want to consider a hydration pack with a larger reservoir capacity. Though this will be heavier, it will allow you to carry more water at once to keep you hydrated longer. You should also consider your physical limits, as you don’t want a pack that is too heavy for you.
Extra Storage
Some hydration bladders aren’t just packs for your water. There are many hydration packs that also have extra storage to keep your other belongings in them! These hydration packs are often shaped like backpacks with a tank in the center, so you can put your belongings around the tank in other compartments before zipping the bag closed. Do keep in mind that the more storage you have on your pack, the heavier your pack will be, so this may be something to avoid if you want something lightweight for exercising or ordinary walks.
Price Range
Hydration bladders can have a big price range depending on the features they offer. While a simple budget hydration bladder may run you anywhere between $15-25, a full hydration pack with extra backpack storage can cost you well over $100 for something high-quality. Ultimately, the price you pay depends on the features you’re looking for and how much you’re willing to spend. For a high-quality, durable pack, the average cost for a good hydration bladder is somewhere around $40-50.
Comfort and fit
When it comes to hydration bladders, you want a pack that is comfortable and fits properly. This is especially true if you plan on using it for long-term activities like hunting, hiking, or camping. This means picking a fit that works best for you. Do you want the pack in a regular backpack, hanging in a sling on your back, or fanny pack style? You may also want to consider strap materials and size, as some materials are softer and more breathable compared to others. Find a pack that has comfortable straps and doesn’t pull hard on your body when full. This will help you keep it on for extended periods of time.
Questions and Answers About Camelbaks For Mountain Biking
Which CamelBak is best for biking?
Though any of the CamelBaks can be used for biking, a favorite of cyclists is the CamelBak Rogue. The CamelBak Rogue has a 2.5L liquid capacity and also comes with four additional storage pockets perfect for storing your phone, wallet, or a small first-aid pack. The Rogue also has breathable, adjustable straps so the pack can be carried on your back comfortably and easily.
How do you get the plastic taste out of a CamelBak?
The first thing you should do upon getting your CamelBak is wash it. After all, you don’t know who or what touched the pack before you purchased it! If washing it normally doesn’t remove the plastic taste, you may want to soak the inside of your CamelBak in water with about a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in it. After letting this mixture soak for about an hour, rinse out the pack. Your CamelBak should have no more plastic taste!
Can you freeze a Camelbak bladder?
Yes, you can definitely freeze a CamelBak bladder without issues. Some people like to freeze their CamelBak bladders empty to kill any remaining bacteria in the pack after a day of use. Others like to freeze their water in the pack so it stays colder longer as it melts throughout the day. However, you have to make sure you don’t fill the bottle all the way when doing this. Because water expands when frozen, your pack could become damaged if frozen while entirely full of water. Never fill it past 80% capacity if you plan to freeze.
How do you insulate Camelbacks?
If your CamelBak isn’t insulated as much as you want it to be, you can actually further insulate it yourself! By using a sheet of foam and some tape, you can wrap a layer of insulation around your CamelBak tank so that it stays colder longer. This extra layer can be the difference between cold water and warm water at the end of the day! After all, nobody wants to be drinking hot water on their way home!
Is a hydration pack worth it?
Hydration packs offer decent weight distribution and convenience to carry your hydration bladder. One of the major cons of a hydration pack is that it is hard to tell where the water level is in the reservoir. It can also be hard to refill your bladder while you are out on your adventure if it does not allow easy detachment from the drinking tube. Also, you may find it difficult to use in freezing temperatures. However, you can insulate your water bladder inside the pack to keep the water drinkable. However, benefits such as convenient access to your drinking water and the flexibility to use it as a backpack should outweigh the cons, especially for regular adventure seekers.
