When we hike, we exert energy. It’s important to hydrate to avoid any health risks and stay energized. If there’s one thing you don’t want to go without on your next hike—it’s water. You can survive in the woods for several weeks without food, but only about three days without water.
In this article, we’ll dive into the different types of vessels you can bring on your hike to stay hydrated. They’ve been chosen to seamlessly nest within your gear, making carrying and drinking water an easy task outdoors. We’ll also go over some key attributes to consider and then list out our favourite options.
Choosing one of the options below will keep your thirst slaked so you can hike to your heart’s content.
Criteria and Variety
In our list, we’ve chosen specific water bottles and bladders based on certain criteria. For hiking, which often takes place over rough ground, durability, ease of use, and portability are big factors to consider. On top of that, the overall carrying capacity and size options are important so you can maintain longer distances without needing to refill.
There are a few different types of water vessels you can bring while hiking. The most popular are traditional non-insulated water bottles and hydration bladders. Hydration bladders are large water reservoirs with a hose attachment that allow you to drink without the need to stop.
However, additional excellent options exist, like insulated water bottles, lightweight or collapsible water bottles, and water bottles that include a built-in filter system. In most outdoor locations, if you’re taking water from streams or lakes, it’s necessary to filter it for safe consumption.
Best Options
For shorter hikes, a 24 oz water bottle has plenty of capacity to meet your needs. Plus, the built-in purifier helps you avoid the need for an additional filtration system. However, it does take some muscle strength to press the purifier button. Make sure to set the water bottle on a flat surface before you try.
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Pros
- Included water purifier
- Purifies 5 litres of water per minute
- Convenient size and shape for backpack carry
- Great for short to medium walks
Cons
- 24 oz is less volume than other options
- Takes some pressure to begin filtering
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With more capacity, the Hydro Flask 32 oz bottle is a great longer-distance companion, especially if you take two or three with you. With its durable build, this bottle can handle variable outdoor environments easily. There isn’t a lot of grip so make sure to have a good hold before pulling the bottle out of your pack, especially if your hands are sweaty.
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Pros
- Large capacity
- Wide mouth for easy drinking
- Strong & Durable
- Lightweight (11.8 oz)
Cons
- Not a lot of grip on the bottle.
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Hydration bladders, like the Gregory 3d Hydro Reservoir, can handle much more water than water bottles. You also avoid having to take out and open water bottles with the hose attachment. Most components are easy to clean as well. Keep in mind that these bladders work best in backpacks with included hydration sleeves. In very cold weather, the hose can freeze.
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Pros
- Great capacity for long hikes
- Quick dry with hanger and clips built in for easy maintenance
- Easy to attach and detach the hose
- Can fit most packs with a hydration sleeve
Cons
- Best with packs that have a hydration sleeve
- Not insulated for cold hikes where the hose may freeze
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Similar to other hydration bladders, the Osprey Hydraulics 2 L capacity is great, the ease of use is excellent, and you can walk while drinking. This bladder also comes with a cool back plate, which allows you to slip it into a hydration pocket while your pack is full. A two-litre capacity equals 2x32 ounce water bottles.
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Pros
- Great capacity
- Magnetic one-bite valve
- Comes with a back plate so it doesn’t clump inside full packs
- Easy hose attachment/detachment
Cons
- Freeze potential in hose
- Requires backpack with hydration sleeve
Brand Name | Product Type
The capacity, ease of use, and convenience of the Contour Hydration Reservoir, are attractive features. A slim profile also helps it fit into various pocket shapes. I also like the clear water level measurement marks, which can be useful for precise water intake or for measuring out water for a camping recipe. Like other bladders, the hose can freeze in the cold.
Price: 0.00$
Pros
- Good capacity
- Slim profile
- Water level measurement marks on the bladder
- Convenient grab handle
Cons
- Hose can freeze in cold temps
- May be hard to slip into a full-pack
Brand Name | Product Type
Maintenance
Water bottles and bladder maintenance are important for several reasons. Any water residue left in water bottles has the capacity to create mould, which will make you sick if you keep drinking out of it. Debris, like dirt, sand, leaves and pieces of bark, may get into your water bottles as well, so cleaning them regularly should be made a habit.
For water bottles, I’d clean them every week or two with strong dish soap and warm water. Let it sit. Then, shake it up under a closed lid and run a cool tap to get the rest of the suds out. Lastly, dry and use. You can also use a dishwasher, although some water bottles will degrade faster this way. Each bottle is different. Check any instructions for proper maintenance.
Bladders are a little tougher. The main reservoir is like a water bottle; fill it with warm soapy water, shake it about and clear out the suds. The hose can catch water along any part of its length. Usually, you can find a cleaning device, which is a long flexible metal rod with bristles on it, run that through the entire length of the hose and wash with soapy water.
As for storage, pick someplace dry and cool. A basement closet, garage rack or shed can work, but you want to avoid high heat and direct sunlight for long periods of time. Depending on how hot it gets, plastic water bottles can start to melt, and the plastic lining on the bladders can crack, which will lead to leaks.
Conclusion
If you’re in need of a water bottle, Altitude Sports has you covered. Any of the water bottles or hydration bladders presented in this list will keep you properly hydrated on your next outdoor adventure.
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