Camelbak

[tinymoose]

For you hikers, what size Camelbak would you recommend for just day trip hiking? We'll usually go out for a portion of a day to go hiking, but that's about the extent of our hiking. In the past I've always just taken a water bottle or two. No overnight trips, since I'm generally not one for camping. Would you just go with the smallest size they make? Will their smallest size (1L I think?) also have room for snacks, etc. in the pack? I could just go to the store and look at the smallest size myself, but I'm curious what others have done.

 

[geargrrl]

The smallest ones are pretty darn tiny, at least the ones we have around here. It comes down to what you want to take with you. We both ( DH and I) have variations on the expandable mules, which I think are great for day hiking. Here's what I would take on most day hikes: Water in bladder, sandwich/snacks, extra layer, camera and or binocs, small 1st aid kit, sun screen, lip balm, hat..I've found with the tiny ones you just can't get it all in.

 

[ski diva]

I actually like the Geigerrig hydration packs better; they come in a variety of sizes. And you don't have to fill up the bladder to pressurize them, if you prefer not to. You can draw from them, just like a Camelback. I reviewed one in my blog a while ago, if you care to look here.

 

[VickiK]

I'm a GoLite fan. I have the Rush 8L. It's small enough to be comfortable on a ski lift, and big enough for light hiking and for cycling. I also have the VO24 pack. It's too bulky for skiing but be great for a day hike.
https://www.golite.com/packs-and-luggage/hydration-and-day-packs

What I pack: Water in bladder, sandwich/snacks, extra layer, small camera, sun screen, lip balm, keys, phone. A small 1st aid kit would be a smart addition.

 

[Jilly]

My camelback has no room for anything but maybe keys. But I did buy it as a hydration pack to wear under my ski coat.

I also have the bladder that can go into a backpack. The backpack has a sleeve and holes for the tube. Then there is lots of room for anything else.

 

[tinymoose]

I'm a GoLite fan. I have the Rush 8L. It's small enough to be comfortable on a ski lift, and big enough for light hiking and for cycling. I also have the VO24 pack. It's too bulky for skiing but be great for a day hike.
https://www.golite.com/packs-and-luggage/hydration-and-day-packs

What I pack: Water in bladder, sandwich/snacks, extra layer, small camera, sun screen, lip balm, keys, phone. A small 1st aid kit would be a smart addition.

I have to say, I like the prices on the GoLite bags!

 

[abc]

I use the mtn bike camelpak for just about everything: skiing, hiking, kayaking. I found the "standard" 70 oz bladder works perfectly. It's really just the right size for a few hours of hard riding, a short day of leisurely hiking, or a long day of paddling.

As for the pack size, it's personal. Some people hiking with the whole house on their back. Others only bring the car key. I would say consider at least room for a snack, and maybe even a camera.

 

[VickiK]

On the subject of packs, I will be selling an Ortovox ski backpack next season. Bought it from a diva here, and didn't use it.

 

[vickie]

You might also check sunnysports.com. Last year they had some 70 oz. hydration packs for adults for as low as $19.95.

 

[skibum4ever]

I actually like the Geigerrig hydration packs better; they come in a variety of sizes. And you don't have to fill up the bladder to pressurize them, if you prefer not to. You can draw from them, just like a Camelback. I reviewed one in my blog a while ago, if you care to look here.

I've got a Geigerrig 500 hydration pack which I've never used, and would like to sell. I'll post a picture if anyone's interested. I see them selling for about $100, but I would be happy to sell mine for $50 or more, shipping included. Let me know if you'd like a photo or any specs.

 

[MaineSkiLady]

We have a model by Camelbak that may no longer exist, but could with a newer moniker. Was called "Daystar" and could very well be what you're looking for, as ours has enough room for half-day hike requirements, plus a 70 oz bladder.