When you’re exploring the great outdoors with your kids, it’s important to have a way to keep them hydrated. Hydration packs are a perfect solution!
There are so many different options for kids hydration packs – it can be hard to prioritize a list.
Do you need a pack that just holds a lot of water or is lightweight and comfort more important? What kind of features does your child really need?
We’ve sorted through all the highest-rated options and selecting the best hydration packs for kids. Our top picks are based on factors like personal experience, price, weight, features, and customer ratings.
- OFHQ’s Favorite Kid’s Hydration Pack
- Best Kids Hydration Pack Reviews
- Best Kids Insulated Hydration Pack
- Best Kids Hydration Biking Pack
- Best Kids Multifunction Hydration Pack
- Best Kids Insulated Multifunction Hydration Pack
- Best Kids Hydration Hiking Day Pack
- Best Kids Hydration Weekend Backpack
- Best Kids Hydration Multi-Day and Extended Journey Backpacks
- Which Brand of Hydration Packs is Best?
- What Is the Smallest CamelBak?
- How Do You Wear a Hydration Pack?
- Are Hydration Packs Worth It?
- Types of Hydration Packs
- The Qualities of a Good Hydration Pack
- Wrapping Up the Best Kids Hydration Pack
OFHQ’s Favorite Kid’s Hydration Pack
If you’re in a rush (or just not in a reading mood), here’s a quick overview of our top picks!
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The Osprey Hydrajet 12 is a junior (ages 4-12) hydration pack that is perfect for younger and older kids who want to carry their own gear. It includes all the features of an adult pack, including a 1.5 liter Hydraulics LT reservoir, dual side pockets, and a front stretch pocket, making it easy to store water, extra layers, and snacks.
The Camelbak Mini MULE is a lightweight and ventilated kids' hydration backpack that is perfect for biking, cycling, or just exploring on the trail. It fits children with a torso length of 15-21 inches. It features a 1.5-liter BPA-free Crux screw-cap reservoir, as well as reflective accents for visibility in low-light environments.
The Mothybot Insulated Water Backpack is a quality, low-cost solution for keeping your water protected from the effects of hot and cold climates. The backpack features a 2-liter BPA-free screw-cap reservoir, as well as a BPA-free insulated hose and push-pull lock insulated bite valve. The reservoir sleeve is also insulated, keeping your drink cold for up to 5 hours.
The Camelbak Scout hydration pack is a full-featured hiking pack designed specifically for small kids with a 15" - 19" torso length (on average, kids in preschool and grade school). It features a safety whistle, name patch, bright, colors fit for kids, and ample storage space.
The Gregory Mountain product line is a great cost-to-quality ratio on larger packs. They are hydration-equipped meaning they are fitted with sleeves for hydration reservoirs and ports for drinking hoses; however, the reservoirs are sold separately through the manufacturer (as is usually the case with a larger pack).
Best Kids Hydration Pack Reviews
CamelBak Charm Hydration Pack
- 1.5 liter BPA free hydration bladder with a screw-cap closure
- Switch lock bite valve
- Breathable mesh back panel and shoulder harnesses
- Weight (empty): 5 oz. (.31 lb.)
- Gear Capacity: 2.5 liters
- Warranty: "Got Your Bak" Limited Lifetime
Technically a women’s pack, the Camelbak Charm is a great option for kids with a torso 15 – 21 inches long. (Measure the bony bump on the back of their neck down to the point directly between their hipbones).
This pack comes with a 1.5-liter BPA-free easy-access reservoir – enough to keep your child hydrated during shorter periods (+/- 2 hours) of activity before needing a refill. The screw-cap closure on the reservoir ensures that your child’s drink will stay fresh, and the switch lock bite valve prevents leaks.
The breathable mesh back panel and shoulder harnesses provide ventilation and comfort, while the lightweight design means that your child won’t feel weighed down.
And, best of all, this pack comes with a “Got Your Bak” Limited Lifetime Warranty, so you can rest assured that your purchase is protected.
Thule UpTake Youth Hydration Pack
- 1.75 Liter Crux large-mouth BPA-free reservoir with fold-and-slide closure
- Twist lock bite BPA-free valve
- ReTrakt BPA-free hose system (see description below)
- Spacer mesh back panel (to keep your back cool)
- Adjustable chest strap
- Weight (empty): .75 lbs
- Gear Capacity: 6 liters
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
The Thule UpTake Youth Hydration Pack was designed to fit young riders 8-12 years old (4’2″- 5’4″). The included 1.75-liter large opening reservoir features a fold-and-slide closure that makes refilling and cleaning easy and holds enough water for short periods (2 hours) of activity before needing a refill.
After the user is finished drinking, Thule’s patented ReTrakt magnetic hose returns itself to an out-of-the-way resting position automatically.
The pack also features main compartment storage for extra layers and snacks, as well as zippered storage for all contents. You’ll remain comfortable in all temperatures with the spacer mesh back panel, and stay visible in low light conditions with the reflective trim and taillight attachment loop.
Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
Download The FREE Guide NowBest Kids Insulated Hydration Pack
CamelBak Kicker Ski Hydration Pack
- 1.5-Liter Crux insulated BPA-free reservoir
- Insulated BPA-free hose and bite valve
- Adjustable chest strap
- Safety whistle buckle
- 1 exterior pocket
- Weight (empty): 8 oz. (.5 lbs)
- Gear Capacity: 4 liters
- Warranty: "Got Your Bak" Limited Lifetime
The CamelBak Kicker Ski Hydration Pack is a perfect lightweight hydration solution for when the weather gets cold (or hot!).
The equipped 1.5-liter Crux Reservoir provides 20% more water per drink and features an ergonomic handle for simple refilling.
The Snowshed Back Panel prevents wet snow from sticking to your pack and the insulated tube and bite valve assembly protect your water from extreme heat and cold.
This ski pack offers a secure fit thanks to the built-in adjustable sternum strap designed to fit comfortably even while on the ski lift.
The Tube Trap holds your tube and bite valve in place between sips, and the safety whistle buckle is ready for emergencies.
MIRACOL Insulated 2-Liter Hydration Pack
- 2-Liter BPA Free Screw-Cap Reservoir
- Insulated BPA-Free Hose and bite valve
- Breathable mesh back panel
- Multiple storage pockets
- Insulated reservoir sleeve
- Weight (empty): 1 lb.
- Gear Capacity: 8 liters
- Warranty: 1 Year Limited
The Miracol insulated hydration pack is a great low-cost option for those needing an insulated pack.
The backpack features a thermal insulation system that keeps liquids cool for up to 4 hours, and the durable construction ensures that your belongings are safe while you’re on the go.
Additionally, the hydration pack includes multiple storage pockets as well as exterior bungee lashes.
Best Kids Hydration Biking Pack
CamelBak Mini MULE Kids Hydration Backpack
Important Features:
- 1.5 Liter BPA-free Crux screw-cap reservoir with QuickLink (see description below)
- BPA-free hose and switch-lock bite valve
- Safety whistle
- Adjustable chest strap
- Breathable mesh back panel
- 3 exterior pockets
- Weight (empty): 7 oz. (.43 lb.)
- Gear Capacity: 1.5 liters
- Warranty: “Got Your Bak” Limited Lifetime
The Camelbak Mini MULE is a lightweight and ventilated kids' hydration backpack that is perfect for biking, cycling, or just exploring on the trail. It fits children with a torso length of 15-21 inches. It features a 1.5-liter BPA-free Crux screw-cap reservoir, as well as reflective accents for visibility in low-light environments.
The Camelbak Mini MULE is a lightweight and ventilated kids’ hydration backpack that is perfect for biking, cycling, or just exploring on the trail when hiking. It fits children with a torso length of 15-21 inches.
It features a 1.5-liter BPA-free Crux screw-cap reservoir, as well as reflective accents for visibility in low-light environments.
The pack is also equipped with space for an extra layer and a few essentials as well as a bike tool organizer pocket, making it easy to store and access supplies while on the go.
Osprey Moki 1.5 Kid’s Bike Hydration Pack
- 1.5-liter BPA-free Hydraulics LT reservoir with fold-and-slide closure
- BPA-free hose and twist-lock bite valve
- adjustable chest strap
- Airmesh back panel and harness for comfort
- safety whistle
- front "shove-it" pocket
- 1 external zippered pocket
- clip for blinky light
- Weight (empty): .54 lbs
- Gear Capacity: Minimalist
The Osprey Moki is a bike pack that features a low-profile design and a harness strategically positioned for a comfortable carry in a riding position.
The pack is lightweight and has an air mesh-covered back panel and harness for comfort. It is stable and comfortable to wear.
Best Kids Multifunction Hydration Pack
Vibrelli 2 Liter Hydration Pack
- 2-Liter BPA-free screw-cap reservoir
- BPA-free hose and twist-lock bite valve
- Multiple exterior pockets
- Adjustable chest strap
- Exterior bungee lashings
- Emergency Whistle
- Weight (empty): 14 oz. (.89 lb.)
- Gear Capacity: Not advertised. Estimated at 6 liters.
- Warranty: 5 Year Limited
(Note: Using the product’s dimensions of 16″ x 12″ x 3″ to calculate a volume of 576 cubic inches (equivalent to over 9 liters), we estimated around 6 liters of gear capacity with the reservoir filled and inserted.)
The Vibrelli Hydration Pack is a great option for those looking for a high-quality and durable backpack whether taking a road trip, hiking, or camping. It is made from medical-grade materials, so it is BPA and PVC-free. This means that your water will taste fresh all day without any plastic taste.
The pack also has multiple storage options and is comfortable and lightweight. It weighs just 14 oz and adjusts to most body sizes, children and adults. Plus, it is backed with a 5-year manufacturer’s replacement warranty.
Outdoor Products Tadpole Hydration Pack
- 1.5 liter BPA-free reservoir
- BPA-free hose and bite valve (non-locking)
- compression straps
- breathable mesh shoulder straps
- 2 exterior pockets
- adjustable chest strap
- Weight (empty):
- Gear Capacity: 3.5 liters
- Warranty: "Plain and Simple" Limited Lifetime
Outdoor Product’s tadpole is a no-frills, low-cost option for children younger than 10 years. Designed specifically for little backs to carry, it provides young ones with the autonomy of carrying their own water (and a few knick-knacks) while learning how to shoulder their own pack on a hike or bike ride.
Best Kids Insulated Multifunction Hydration Pack
Helpful Tip: It’s important to note that many of the hydration packs in this guide up to this point can be considered as “multi-function.” Because younger children are not fully developed physically, pack categories tend to be more flexible in their definitions than they are for a full-grown man or woman who have more gender-specific frames.
As your child grows (such as beyond 10 years), you’ll need to be more specific about measuring their torso length, etc. when fitting a pack and considering their specific activities when choosing a style of pack.
Mothybot Insulated 1.5 Liter Hydration Backpack
Important Features:
- 2-Liter BPA free screw-cap reservoir (smaller 1.5 liter available)
- BPA-free insulated hose and push-pull lock insulated bite valve
- Safety whistle
- Adjustable chest strap
- Insulated reservoir sleeve
- 3 storage pockets
- Weight (empty): 1.5 lbs.
- Gear Capacity: 16 Liters (smaller 12 liter available)
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
The Mothybot Insulated Water Backpack is a quality, low-cost solution for keeping your water protected from the effects of hot and cold climates. The backpack features a 2-liter BPA-free screw-cap reservoir, as well as a BPA-free insulated hose and push-pull lock insulated bite valve. The reservoir sleeve is also insulated, keeping your drink cold for up to 5 hours.
The Mothybot Insulated Water Backpack is a quality, low-cost solution for keeping your water protected from the effects of hot and cold climates.
The backpack features a 2-liter BPA-free screw-cap reservoir, as well as a BPA-free insulated hose and push-pull lock insulated bite valve.
The reservoir sleeve is also insulated, keeping your drink cold for up to 5 hours.
Additionally, the backpack includes three storage pockets, a safety whistle, and reflective fabric for safety.
Best Kids Hydration Hiking Day Pack
CamelBak Scout Hydration Pack
Important Features:
- 1.5 Liter BPA-free screw cap Crux reservoir
- BPA-free hose and switch-lock bite valve
- Breathable mesh back panel
- Adjustable chest strap
- 1 exterior essentials pocket
- Weight (empty): 11 oz. (.69 lbs)
- Gear Capacity: 12.5 liters
- Warranty: “Got Your Bak” Limited Lifetime
The Camelbak Scout hydration pack is a full-featured hiking pack designed specifically for small kids with a 15" - 19" torso length (on average, kids in preschool and grade school). It features a safety whistle, name patch, bright, colors fit for kids, and ample storage space.
The Camelbak Scout hydration pack is a full-featured hiking pack designed specifically for small kids with a 15″ – 19″ torso length (on average, kids in preschool and grade school).
It features a safety whistle, name patch, bright, colors fit for kids, and ample storage space.
Including an essentials pocket, a wicking mesh back panel, a 1.5 liter reservoir, and two side pockets, the Scout is a pack kids will love.
Osprey Hydrajet 12 Kids Hydration Pack
Important Features:
- 1.5 liter Hydraulics LT BPA-free reservoir with fold-and-slide closure
- BPA-free hose and twist-lock bite valve
- large front stretch mesh pocket
- small exterior zippered pocket
- wide bucket-style main compartment opening
- dual side pockets
- breathable mesh back panel
- adjustable chest strap
- safety whistle
- Weight (empty): 13.5 oz (.84 lbs)
- Gear Capacity: 12 liters
- Warranty: “Almighty Guarantee:” repaired or replaced at any time for any reason.
The Osprey Hydrajet 12 is a junior (ages 4-12) hydration pack that is perfect for younger and older kids who want to carry their own gear. It includes all the features of an adult pack, including a 1.5 liter Hydraulics LT reservoir, dual side pockets, and a front stretch pocket, making it easy to store water, extra layers, and snacks.
Features, features, features!
The Osprey Hydrajet 12 is a junior (ages 4-12) hydration pack that is perfect for younger and older kids who want to carry their own gear. It includes all the features of an adult pack, including a 1.5 liter Hydraulics LT reservoir, dual side pockets, and a front stretch pocket, making it easy to store water, extra layers, and snacks.
The mesh back panel and sternum strap keep kids comfortable and the pack stable, while the breathable mesh ensures that they stay cool. The adjustable sternum strap also ensures a perfect fit. And finally, the safety whistle provides an added level of safety and security.
Best Kids Hydration Weekend Backpack
Note: The backpacks in the following two categories are “hydration-equipped,” meaning they are fitted with sleeves for hydration reservoirs and ports for drinking hoses; however, the reservoirs are sold separately through the manufacturer (as is usually the case with a larger pack).
Gregory Icarus 40 Kids Backpack
- Hydration sleeve with hangar and hose port (reservoir sold separately)
- Adjustable torso (to accommodate child's growth from torso length 13" - 18")
- Die-cut foam breathable back panel and shoulder harnesses.
- Bottom and toploading access
- 4 external pockets
- Dual mesh side pockets
- Large front mesh pocket
- Safety whistle
- Adjustable chest strap
- Trekking pole lashings
- Weight (empty): 2.27 lbs.
- Gear Capacity: 40 liters
- Max Carry Weight: 25 lbs.
- Warranty: The Gregory Limited Lifetime
The Gregory Icarus 40 backpack is a great option for kids who need a good hydration-ready backpack for a weekend excursion.
It features an adjustable torso so that it can grow with your child, as well as a die-cut foam breathable back panel and shoulder harnesses. The backpack also has bottom zippered access, which makes it easy to get to your gear, as well as a top pocket with two zippered compartments and an underside zippered pocket.
The backpack also has reflective attachment points and a key clip, dual side mesh pockets with pass-through for over or under compression, which can hold water bottles to back up the reservoir (sold separately).
Another great feature of this backpack is the large front mesh pocket that can hold other items that your child needs easily accessible while you are hiking or backpacking. The Gregory Icarus 40 also features trekking pole lashings, which can be used to attach your hiking poles or tools.
Gregory Wander 50 Kids Backpack
- Hydration sleeve with hangar and hose port (reservoir sold separately)
- Adjustable torso (to accommodate child's growth from torso length 13" - 18")
- Die-cut foam breathable back panel and shoulder harnesses.
- Bottom and toploading access
- 6 external pockets
- Dual mesh side pockets
- Large front mesh pocket
- Safety whistle
- Adjustable chest strap
- Rain cover
- Trekking pole lashings
- Weight (empty): 3.35 lbs.
- Gear Capacity: 50 liters
- Max Carry Weight: 40 lbs.
- Warranty: The Gregory Limited Lifetime
The Gregory Wander 50 features a hydration sleeve with hangar and hose port, adjustable torso to accommodate child’s growth, die-cut foam breathable back panel, shoulder harnesses, and reinforced bottom panel with dual-layer construction.
In addition to having similar features to the Icarus 40, it also includes a deployable rain cover to keep the pack dry in a downpour.
Best Kids Hydration Multi-Day and Extended Journey Backpacks
Gregory Wander 70 Kids Backpack
- Hydration sleeve with hangar and hose port (reservoir sold separately)
- Adjustable torso (to accommodate child's growth from torso length 13" - 18")
- Die-cut foam breathable back panel and shoulder harnesses.
- 6 external pockets
- Bottom and toploading access
- Dual mesh side pockets
- Large front mesh pocket
- Safety whistle
- Adjustable chest strap
- Rain cover
- Trekking pole lashings
- Weight (empty): 3.51 lbs.
- Gear Capacity: 70 liters
- Max Carry Weight: 40 lbs.
- Warranty: The Gregory Limited Lifetime
The Gregory Wander 70 is the company’s largest, most equipped backpack for long excursions. It features a hydration sleeve that can accommodate a water reservoir (sold separately), and an adjustable torso length to ensure a perfect fit.
The die-cut foam breathable back panel and shoulder harnesses provide extra comfort, and there are 6 external pockets for ample storage.
The bottom and toploading access make it easy to get to your gear, and the reinforced bottom panel ensures durability.
Which Brand of Hydration Packs is Best?
We believe that a company’s warranty policy reflects its faith in its product and, thus, the quality of the product (with rare exceptions). In other words, if it’s only guaranteed for 90 days, the first question that pops into our mind is, “Why? What’s wrong with it?”
If the pack is guaranteed for 1 year, limited or unlimited, we’re like, “Okay, you have our semi-attention.”
Let’s say a company such as CamelBak, a leader in the industry with a solid reputation for quality and innovative products steps up with their “Got Your Bak” lifetime limited guarantee, then we know they’ll back their pack until it wears out from normal wear and tear (and all packs will . . . although, we can say from personal experience that Camelbaks last a LONG time under heavy daily use).
Then, ultimately, there’s Osprey with their “Almighty Guarantee.”
Whether it was made in 1974 or today, for “any reason, any product, any era,” they will repair it or replace it free of charge.
Now, what does that say about Osprey? We have called in on Os
In addition to the warranty, consider the company’s history. How long have they been manufacturing hydration packs and backpacks? What is the public, in general, saying about them in review forums and on sellers’ websites?
Our reviews on OFHQ stem from a blend of personal experience and exhaustive research into the experiences of others so we can provide a holistic, non-partisan perspective of the market.
Personally, we have owned Osprey and CamelBak packs for over 20 years and have never been disappointed in a single purchase. They are rugged, comfortable, and most importantly, both companies provide excellent after-market customer service that leaves a lot for the competition to live up to.
Still, there are many other credible manufacturers of high-quality packs vying for your purchase; so, read on and learn more about all the options available to you!
What Is the Smallest CamelBak?
The CamleBak Charm is only 13″ x 8.5″ x 4,” making it shorter than CamelBak’s youth packs and its smallest current model (2022).
How Do You Wear a Hydration Pack?
The most popular style of hydration pack is worn just like a backpack or hiking pack with shoulder straps being the primary means by which it is stabilized on the back.
The drinking hose is typically fed through the top of the pack and secured along the right or left shoulder strap to provide effortless hydration on the go.
Depending upon whether it is strictly for hydration or gear storage and transportation, the pack will include other stabilization features such as a hip belt and stabilization straps.
The more the pack is used for, the more abundant its features will be to provide efficiency and comfort on the trail.
Some hydration packs are designed like a close-fitting vest or waist pack and are better suited for jogging or trail running.
Are Hydration Packs Worth It?
A good quality hydration pack allows the user to transport a greater quantity of water comfortably on their back, freeing up their hands for other activities as opposed to carrying a water bottle or canteen.
In addition, hydration packs make staying hydrated an effortless endeavor while pursuing outdoor activities. It frees the user of the time-and energy-consuming task of stopping and dropping their pack to retrieve water.
Instead, a drinking tube is secured over the user’s shoulder the allows drinking from the pack’s reservoir on the go.
Also, hydration packs make the life-saving activity of staying well-hydrated more easily accomplished by being at the ready and making a larger quantity of water transportable than most typical water bottles and canteens.
Finally, most models of hydration packs carry more than just water. The ability to transport food, gear, supplies, and easily-accessible water in one unit makes hydration packs a revolutionary innovation in outdoor sports, camping, and hiking.
So, yeah, they’re worth it.
One final note: most newer backpacks and daypacks are equipped with an interior sleeve to accommodate a water reservoir. If your current pack fits this description, then there’s no need to purchase a new hydration pack. You just need an after-market water reservoir and, presto, you’ve got one!
Types of Hydration Packs
Before choosing a hydration pack for kids, it’s important to determine what activity they’ll be engaged in most: Hiking? Running? Biking? Cycling? Mountain biking? Climbing? Snowsports?
These activities incorporate different dynamics in body movement and position that affect the stabilization of the pack, thus requiring the pack’s engineering to include different features for keeping it secured and in place while you’re on the go.
Further, if your activity takes you to environments of extreme temperatures, you’ll need a pack that is more insulated than others.
Read on to learn about the different types of hydration packs!
1. Hiking Hydration Packs
Hiking hydration packs: Packs of this sort are generally designed with ample cargo space for food, extra layers, and essential gear/supplies. They are worn like a traditional backpack; however, include retention and stabilization straps to ensure the pack sits comfortably and securely on the human frame.
Hiking packs come in a variety of sizes, from smaller packs that can be used on short day-long excursions to ones large enough to take everything you’ll need for overnight backpacking trips.
2. Running Hydration Packs
Hydration packs designed specifically for running come in 3 varieties:
Running Backpacks:
A running hydration pack is a backpack specifically designed for runners. It has a low-profile design and is typically fitted with a simple hipbelt. This makes it easy to run with, as it does not bounce around as regular backpacks do.
The pack also comes with a variety of pockets that are easily accessible while you are running. This makes it perfect for bringing along extra food and clothing on long trail runs.
In addition, nearly every running pack accommodates a hydration reservoir (although a few require a separate purchase), so you can easily sip on water while you run.
Running Vests:
A running vest is a type of hydration pack that is designed specifically for runners, fitting snug to the body as a typical vest would and not including a hipbelt (with rare exceptions).
The majority of the pockets are located on the front of the pack to allow ease of access, including dedicated water bottle holders. Additionally, select running vests have a space for storing a hydration reservoir, which allows runners to drink from a tube on the fly.
Running/Hiking Waistpacks:
Running hydration waist packs are typically small and lightweight and include a water bottle rather than a reservoir.
They do not have many features other than the water bottle/reservoir, perhaps a small pocket for a snack, and straps for belting it to your waist.
These packs are great for brief, quick adventures when traveling light is more important than carrying a lot of gear/supplies
3. Cycling and Mountain Biking Packs
A cycling hydration pack is a backpack that is made for people who ride bikes on roads or mountain trails. While mountain biking packs are typically larger than road cycling packs to accommodate more gear/supplies, the two types all have the same basic features in common.
They are all compact and low-profile so they feel light and stable on your back a create a minimum amount of wind drag. They also have slimmer waistbelts that won’t get in the way when you’re pedaling.
4. Cold-Weather Hydration Packs
Cold weather hydration packs are designed with snow sports in mind. To keep your water supply from freezing in cold weather conditions they typically have insulation on the reservoir and drink tube, as well as a bite valve cover.
Depending on your preferred snow sport, packs are available with lashings that can transport a snowboard or skiis handsfree.
The Qualities of a Good Hydration Pack
Once you’ve determined the style of hydration pack best fits your pursuits, then it’s time to begin our quest for a durable, dependable pack that is comfortable for you to wear and your wallet to pay for.
1. Storage Capacity for Water and Gear
Water Storage
In most cases, water is the heaviest supply you will carry. How much you need depends on the activity, its duration, the climate you will be in, and available water resources along the way.
Typical reservoir capacities are as follows:
- 0.5-liter waist pack bottles (about 1.1 lbs): Designed with short quick excursions in mind.
- 1.5-liter hydration pack reservoir (3.3 lbs): Ideal for kids learning to carry their own pack and for shorter distance hikes or runs.
- 2-liter hydration pack reservoir (4.4 lbs): A very popular size and a happy medium between weight and sufficiency of water in most scenarios.
- 3-liter hydration pack reservoir (6.6 lbs): A go-to for those who venture further and longer, or where water is scarce and the climate is hot and dry . . . or if you just don’t want to refill as often.
Gear Storage
The capacity of a pack to carry gear is measured as a volume in liters. How much volume you require rests heavily on what you plan to take with you, which, in turn, rests heavily on what activity you’re pursuing and how long.
Here are the basic categories of pack volumes and their suggested uses:
Small Lightweight Packs
- 5 or fewer liters: for short-duration activities requiring lightweight travel (running, ultralight hiking, road biking). These provide just enough room for a small quantity of water, an extra layer, and maybe some snacks.
- 5 to 10 liters: for day-long activities requiring lightweight travel (mountain biking, trail running, etc.) They have enough space to fit a change of clothing/layers and a day’s worth of food with some room to spare.
Medium Packs (Day Packs)
- 10 to 25 liters: for day-long explorations. These packs have more pockets for organization of gear such as more clothes, emergency gear (First Aid), and food for spending the whole day on the trail.
Large Backpacks (Overnight Packs)
- 30-50 liters: These packs are equipped to store everything you need for an overnight hiking excursion into the wilderness: tens, sleeping bags, clothing, food, and more.
Extra Large Packs (Multi-Day Packs to Extended Journey Packs)
- 50 or more liters: These are suitable for those embarking on a journey that will last days to weeks. They are huge and loaded with compartments for organizing gear/supplies for long expeditions.
2. Comfort and Fit of the Pack
Once you decided what size pack you’ll need, it’s time to match that knowledge to your own physical dimensions.
The right pack for you should, when properly adjusted, sit comfortably on your waist while relieving your shoulders of most of the burden, providing more comfort and less fatigue.
To learn how to determine the right size and fit for your stature, check out REI’s Expert Advice post “How to Size and Fit a Backpack.”
Helpful Tip: Many manufacturers produce backpack designs specific to a women’s body shape. These are contoured differently than men’s packs, and as such fit younger boys and girls as well.
While youth-specific packs are available, small-sized packs for men and women can function just as well.
3. Pack Weight
How much a hiker (child or adult) should carry in a backpack is a topic of safety and health. Too much weight can cause lower back pain and lead to other associated problems.
As a rule, a child should carry between 10% and 20% of their body weight, the higher end of this being reserved for children in excellent physical condition and the lower end for those younger and less physically tuned.
For example, a typical 45-pound 6-year-old boy who is new to carrying a hiking pack should not be expected to carry more than 10-15% of his weight, or (4.5 to 6.8 lbs.). In most cases, this limits him to his food and water depending on the weight of the pack itself.
4. Quality and Longevity of the Pack
Ultimately, this is jointly contingent on the craftsmanship of the manufacturer and how rough and frequently the pack is used-and-abused. As with anything else, it’s not the years; it’s the miles that contribute to wear-and-tear.
From personal experience, paying a little more for a pack from a reputable, time-proven brand always pays off, especially if the company trusts their own product enough to back it by a generous warranty.
Still, for a child that may quickly outgrow his/her pack, paying for longevity may be irrelevant. You may just need it to last a year like that pair of shoes you just bought them.
Knowing what materials are typically used in high-quality packs can help discern quality packs from those just trying to get a piece of the market.
Pack Materials:
- Nylon: The most popular material in backpack/hydration pack construction, nylon fabrics are strong, durable, abrasion-resistant, insect-resistant, mold-resistant, and lightweight.
Nylon fabrics vary in denier, which measures their durability and resistance to abrasion. (Example: 1050D Nylon is stronger and heavier than 650D nylon)
Because nylon with a denier higher than 210 is heavier, most hiking backpacks keep to a lighter weave for the larger portion of the pack reserving the heavier denier for abrasion-prone areas (such as the bottom of a backpack) for added reinforcement.
Sometimes durable Cordura fabric is used in abrasion-prone areas.
Nylon is frequently reinforced with interwoven filaments at regular intervals (ripstop) for enhanced tear resistance. The ripstop fabric prevents the tear from growing by isolating it.
- Polyester: A close second in popularity to nylon, polyester has one advantage over nylon: its greater UV resistance.
- Polypropylene: Resistant to water and some chemicals, polypropylene is strong and very difficult to tear. Because it is cheap to manufacture, it is commonly found in lower-end packs.
- Ripstop: A reinforced version of any of the above three materials, ripstop employs a specific type of weave that provides greater tear/rip resistance.
- Kodra Nylon: a product of Korea, this form of nylon was developed as an alternative to Cordura (see below). It has a solid reputation for resiliency and durability.
- Cordura: This abrasion-resistant form of nylon is usually used on the bottom of backpacks. It is a proprietary version of nylon that has many applications in industry and textiles.
- Ballistic Nylon: One could call it “super-nylon.” Developed originally in WWII as protection from grenade and shell shrapnel, the material has been improved over time to create an impressively strong, durable fabric, although, a bit heavy.
Quality hydration backpacks are often coated with polyurethane or silicone to make the material more water-resistant. While this doesn’t mean the backpack is ultimate; waterproof, they keep moisture at bay for much longer in more extreme environments than those without it.
Reservoir Materials: The most long-lasting, high-quality water bladders are composed of tough yet flexible polymers such as TPU (polyurethane) or PEVA (non-chlorinated vinyl).
Be sure whatever you pick is BPA-free and stretchy enough to mold comfortably to the contours of your back.
5. Water Reservoir Features
Aside from the size of the reservoir (also known as a bladder or water bladder), a good deal of thought and engineering has gone into the mechanism itself over the years. From the way it is opened and refilled to how the user drinks from it, what you settle on should contribute to its ease and enjoyment during use.
Reservoir Design:
- Fold-Top Reservoir: the entire top of this type opens up in wide-mouth fashion to allow ease of refilling when you don’t have the convenience of a faucet or spigot. To close and seal, the top folds down once on itself and a “clip” slides through grooves along the folded edge, securing it in place.
- Screw-Cap Reservoir: this original hydration pack design dates back to the origin of the concept. While still popular, it avails a smaller opening than the fold-top types and is more difficult to handle when refilling.
- Zip-Top Reservoir: opening and closing like a locking sandwich baggie, these reservoirs are quick to open and fill but can be tricky to close. Still, they are wide-mouthed like fold-tops making them easier to refill in streams and rivers.
Types of Bite Valves:
The most frequently utilized part of a reservoir, the bite valve transfers the water from the hose to your mouth. The act of lightly biting down on the silicone valve housing forces it open creating a flow of water when light suction is applied.
In general, bite-valves come in small, medium, and large sizes, the larger being easier to draw water through, smaller being more suitable for small users and children.
Companies try to gain a proprietary edge by inventing and reinventing their valves to be easier to use and unique. Here are three common valves:
- Push-and-Pull: using your teeth, pushing in on the stem closes it while pulling out opens it. The valve will not automatically close or seal.
- Switch: Using your fingers, flip the switch on or off to open or close. The valve will mostly seal itself if you forget to switch it off; however, if it gets pinched at all, or set your backpack down on it, you’re going to have a wet shirt of pack bottom.
- Twist: Same as the switch, but instead requires a twisting motion of the fingers. Again, make sure you close it to prevent accidental valve leaks.
6. Ease of Use
This may seem obvious: why would you select a pack that’s awkward and cumbersome to use?
Oftentimes, those in the market for a hydration pack will only pay attention to other features such as gear storage and organization, putting the pack on and taking it off, and adjusting straps to stabilize it comfortably on the body. All these are important; but …
… what about taking out the reservoir, filling it, and reinserting it? Is the cap easy to remove and replace? Can it be refilled on the trail if you run out of water? How quickly can you drink from it and how does it deal with excess water drip and overflow (a problem not exclusive to bite-valve designs)?
Will your child be able to perform these tasks on their own (once they’ve been coached)?
In this guide, we’ve paid special attention to the reservoir specifically: how well the reservoir fits the pack and—in conjunction—how easy it is to take out, fill (at home or in the field), reinsert, wear, carry, and drink from.
7. Insulation Technology
If your family enjoys snow sports or hiking, biking, or camping in climates with sub-freezing temperatures, how well the reservoir, hose, and drink valve is insulated is a factor you will certainly want to pay attention to.
Needing water only to find that the water in the hose or valve has frozen makes for a very unpleasant (and potentially hazardous) experience.
Alternatively, in hot climates, insulated packs will keep the water cooler longer which is important for keeping little ones from overheating.
8. Multi-Function Features
Depending on the types of outdoor adventures your family enjoys, consider buying multi-function hydration packs for your kids.
In other words, if your family primarily enjoys hiking, mountain biking, and/or road cycling, find packs that will serve them well in each scenario.
Then again, if your family engages in two extremes such as longer backpacking trips and, on the other hand, the occasional short day hike, it may be better to buy separate packs for each activity.
9. Value
Finally, expensive does NOT always mean better … for your particular situation.
Before dropping a large sum on a high-end, top-brand pack, consider the following:
- Realistically, how much use will the pack see?
- How long will your child be able to use it before they outgrow it and need a new one?
- Will the pack be passed down to younger siblings and be used by more than one child over a longer period?
- Is your child old or experienced enough to be carrying the larger, heavier pack with all the extra gear pockets and technical straps, or should they simply be responsible for carrying their water, requiring just a smaller, basic hydration pack?
- Is that more expensive pack backed by a solid warranty and a reputable company known for after-market customer service?
Wrapping Up the Best Kids Hydration Pack
Selecting the best hydration pack for your child can be a needle-in-a-haystack search. Simplify your search by narrowing down the activities your family will be engaged in and, from there, determine the style of the pack and the size of the water reservoir is truly necessary.
From there, it’s just a matter of deciding on storage space and other features.
We hope this article has helped to give you a better understanding of the different types of packs available and which might be best for your child.
Be sure to read our buyer’s guide above before making your final decision and happy trails!
Joshua Davis
Being outdoors is freedom! Being outdoors with my wife and two boys is LIVING! Whether in my backyard or getting lost in a National Park, there’s nothing I’d rather do than explore, discover, and experience the paradise that surrounds us. Give me my family, a backpack, and a trail and my life is full!Download this guide to get your kids outside and off screens.
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