TOP 13 Best Hydration Packs & Backpacks for Running 2024

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Best Hydration Packs for Running & TOP 13 Running Backpacks Reviewed 2024

We can all agree that hydration is extremely important, especially as we enter the summer months.

But no one wants to be carrying a bottle while they run, right?

The most convenient way to carry water with you while you run is in a hydration vest.

This article will save you from having to do the research. I’ve put together a list of the best hydration packs for running in 2024, with some additional tips on how to choose.

TOP 13 Best Hydration Packs for Running 2024

Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set Backpack

Salomon Adv Skin 12 Set Black, Medium/Large
  • Stability and stretch: sensifit construction comfortably wraps your body without hindrance or chafing
  • Versatile comfort : a perfect companion for all your light outdoor sports. Because the right fabric is in the right place, it dries quickly and allows your skin to breathe
  • It's not a bag - it's a carrying solution. Designed so you can reach Everything you need on the Go so there's no need to Stop to search

Review: The Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set sits at the top of the list and comes with 2x 500ml soft bottles, is 1.5L water bladder compatible (though this needs to be purchased separately) and claims to have a 12L pack capacity.

Designed for European mountain ultras, it has the storage solutions to let you carry all sorts of gear.

Also designed with serious comfort in mind with its stretchy mesh and figure-hugging strap design, the advanced Skin 12 Set is ideal for running long distances.

Unique kangaroo pouches are a novel but effective way to store your snacks or extra layers of clothing and the heat shielded bladder sleeve keeps your water cool.

At 17.5 oz including the bottles, this is a lightweight pack.

Pros

  • Breathable mesh back panel.
  • Durable.
  • Many sizes available.
  • Multiple pockets of different styles.
  • Very comfortable figure-hugging mesh.
  • Versatile.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • Bladder sold separately.

Takeaway

Arguably the best running backpack on the market, if you are willing to front up the cash for a comfortable and convenient running partner.

This is the best hydration pack for ultra running and the best trail running hydration backpack.

Nathan Women’s Vaporhowe Hydration Vest

Nathan NS4538 Vaporhowe Hydaration Pack Running Vest with 1.8L Bladder, Blue Radiance, Small
  • Lightweight 12L race vest with 1.8L bladder, designed to fit the female form
  • Body-mapped, form-fitting, & breathable, with an apparel-like fit
  • Includes the new 1.8L hydration bladder, designed to reduce sloshing
  • Multiple storage & stash pockets for on-the-go access to essentials
  • Front pockets fit bottles up to 22oz and Smartphones sized up to iPhone 7 plus

Review: With a 1.8L water bladder, 12L gear storage capacity and 12.6 oz. weight, the Nathan Vaporhowe was designed by champion ultra runner Stephanie Howe, especially for women. It is light, soft and the most comfortable women’s vest.

A magnet on the sternum strap lets you connect the hose for easy access. The easy to use, adjustable straps let you find the perfect fit quickly and then allow you to move freely while you run without feeling restricted in any way.

Symmetrical chest pockets keep you feeling balanced, and the bladder that comes with the vest does its job admirably without bouncing around.

Pros

  • Female specific design.
  • Very comfortable figure-hugging fabric.
  • Well ventilated with strategic holes.
  • Durable.
  • Easy access, plentiful pockets.
  • Includes emergency whistle in hidden pocket.

Cons

  • Expensive.

Takeaway

This is easily the best running hydration pack for women. If you can handle the steep price, it won’t let you down.

Furthermore, it is the best hydration vest for trail running for women due to its durable and snug-fitting design.

Nathan VaporAir Hydration Pack

Nathan VaporAir Hydration Pack Running Vest w/ 2L Bladder
  • Over the shoulder load lifters keep water and gear close to the body for maximum no bounce comfort
  • Body mapped, super breathable materials for maximum comfort
  • Equipped with a 2L bladder with quick release valve. 9.3 oz / 264 g.
  • Two easy access front bottle pockets and front right stretch mesh stash pocket holds several gels
  • Reflective hits for runs that last from dusk to dawn

Review: The Nathan VaporAir comes with a 2L water bladder, 7L gear storage capacity, a magnetic hose clamp for easy access, adjustable shoulder straps, external bungee cords for extra storage and reflective features.

What more could you want?

If you prefer chest-mounted water bottles, this is not the pack for you, but the 2L water bladder more than does the job of keeping you hydrated and comfortable.

It isn’t as snug a fit as the previous 2 vests on the list, but is still at the very comfortable end of the spectrum when compared to other vests on the market.

At just 9.3 oz. with the bladder, this is likely to be the best lightweight running backpack 2024.

Pros

  • Very comfortable.
  • Easy to use and refill on the go.
  • Plenty of roomy pockets.
  • Lightweight.
  • Breathable.
  • Durable.

Cons

  • On the expensive side.

Takeaway

This is the lightest hydration pack for running so a great choice when looking for the best hydration pack for marathon running or the best hydration pack for running half marathon races that uses a bladder hydration system.

Ultimate Direction Women’s Ultra Vesta 4.0

Review: 20% lighter than the Ultra Vesta 3.0, this vest just gets better and better. Less comfortable but comparatively less expensive than the Nathan Vaporhowe, this vest is the next best choice for serious women runners.

Pack capacity is 10.1L and there is space for the addition of a 2L bladder which must be bought separately. It comes with 2 x 500ml bottles which may or not be adequate depending on the length of your run.

They are also positioned a little high which could make on-the-go access awkward. The Ultra Vest is the male version, equal to the Ultra Vesta and a fantastic choice for male runners who don’t want to fork out for the Salomon Advanced Skin 12 Set.

Pros

  • Comfortable.
  • Breathable.
  • Ample pockets and rear storage space.
  • Highly adjustable sternum and waist straps for a snug fit.
  • Lightweight.

Cons

  • Bladder must be bought separately.

Takeaway

Among the best women’s running backpacks and another great choice when looking for the best hydration pack for marathon running or best hydration pack for trail running for women.

Ultimate Direction SJ Ultra Vest 2.0

Ultimate Direction SJ 2.0 Ultra Vest, Gunmetal, Small
  • Designed and endorsed by Scott Jurek and updated for 2014
  • The best weight to volume ratio of any pack of any kind
  • Weight: 11 oz. (16.5 oz. with bottles), 7L (427 sq. Inch) Total Volume
  • Comes with two 20 oz Ultimate Direction water bottles
  • Sizing At Chest (Unisex): SM: 23 to 33 in. / 58 to 84 cm. Measure wearing the clothes you intend to wear. A vest full of gear will fit smaller.

Review: Popular and comfortable, 1.5L water bladder compatible, and coming equipped with 2 x 20 oz. bottles, the SJ Ultra Vest was designed through collaboration with ultrarunner Scott Jurek.

With its 7L gear storage capacity and multiple pockets, this pack has a good amount of storage for all the essentials to ensure that you are well supplied.

Weighing in at 11 oz. without bottles or 16.5 oz with bottles, this is definitely a lightweight pack that will comfortably go the distance.

Pros

  • Durable.
  • 2 x adjustable sternum straps minimize bounce.
  • Waterproof.
  • Multiple pockets.
  • Breathable.
  • Lightweight.

Cons

  • Unisex sizing.
  • Bladder not included.

Takeaway

The best hydration pack for marathon running and trail running due to its impressive volume to weight ratio, and durable, waterproof and comfortable design.

Osprey Duro 6 Hydration Pack

Osprey Packs Osprey Duro 6 Hydration Pack, Silver Squall, S/M, Small/Medium
  • Zippered reservoir sleeve with included hydraulics lt reservoir
  • Vertical zippered harness slash pocket with whistle zipper pull
  • Dual accessible lower side panel stretch mesh pockets
  • Dual extra-large stretch mesh flask/phone/food harness pockets
  • Dual lower stretch mesh food/supplement harness pockets

Review: A reliable Osprey Pack, the Duro 6 is a men’s pack designed for trail running and comes equipped with a 1.5L BPA free water bladder and a 6L gear capacity.

6 external pockets provide all the storage you might need for your running adventure, while a vertical zip pocket has the additional feature of a whistle zipper pull for easy access in emergencies.

Deep mesh pockets cater for larger items and stretchy sternum straps make for unrestricted breathing. At 19 oz. with the bladder, the Duro 6 is a lightweight pack.

Pros

  • Comfortable.
  • Lightweight.
  • Plenty of pockets.
  • Sternum magnet for securing hose.
  • Bladder designed with baffles to maintain streamlined shape.
  • Men’s and women’s versions available.
  • Doesn’t bounce.
  • Durable.

Cons

  • Not waterproof.

Takeaway

A good quality, well designed pack with ample storage space makes the Duro 6 a great option for longer trail runs and the best hydration backpack for running.

CamelBak 2016 Marathoner Hydration Vest

CamelBak 2016 Marathoner Hydration Vest, Electric Blue/Lime Punch
  • Our best-selling Vest, the marathoner is for the runner who wants a low-profile solution and Minimalist storage
  • Antidote reservoir features: Quick Link system, easy open/close cap, lightweight fill port, Dryer arms, center baffling and low-profile design
  • Features adjustable harness with cargo pockets, integrated reservoir compression, sweat-proof phone pocket, external fill
  • Designed to carry water bottle, extra layer, nutrition, phone, Gloves, hat, keys
  • Camelbak Got your Bak guarantee: if we build it, we'll Bak it with our lifetime guarantee

Review: This is CamelBak’s most popular hydration vest for running, designed to carry everything you might need for your marathon distance run.

It comes with a 2L bladder and a pocket for an extra drink bottle. It is simple, comfortable and reliable. It can be adjusted to cope with different loads and not bounce with any of them, while its easily accessible and refillable bladder makes rehydrating easy while on the go.

Weighing in at 9.5 oz without the bladder, this is a seriously lightweight pack.

Pros

  • Mesh panels for breathability.
  • Sweatproof phone compartment.
  • Ample pockets for snacks and an extra layer.
  • Reflective strips for night safety.
  • Lightweight.

Cons

  • Comes in only one size.
  • 2016 model so may not be available for too much longer.

Takeaway

This is the best CamelBak for running provided you don’t want to carry endless amounts of knick-knacks, and is similarly CamelBak’s best hydration pack for marathon running.

CamelBak Circuit Hydration Vest

CamelBak Circuit Crux Reservoir Hydration Vest, Lime Punch/Silver, 1.5 L/50 oz
  • Crux delivers 20% more water per sip, with an ergonomic handle for easy refilling and an on/off lever to prevent leaks.
  • 3D Ventilated mesh offers multi-directional air flow and cushioning to maximize comfort and breathability
  • Secure phone pocket conveniently located for quick access and includes a zipper closure for added security
  • Dual adjustable sternum straps increases stability and offer a range of adjustments for customization
  • Reflectivity on front and back for early morning or evening runs

Review: Another popular CamelBak vest, the Circuit has a 1.5L Crux Reservoir which delivers more water per mouthful resulting in more hydration for less effort.

Though not gender-specific, the adjustable sternum straps make this vest comfortable for women of all sizes. With 6 exterior pockets, it has enough storage space to carry the necessities.

It’s the smallest vest on the highly-rated CamelBak line weighing in at just 6 oz without the bladder, so perfect for minimalist or entry-level runners.

Pros

  • Adjustable sternum straps.
  • Lightweight.
  • Breathable.
  • Good value.
  • Reflective strips for night safety.
  • Ample pockets including a zip pocket for valuables.

Cons

  • No specific water bottle holders.

Takeaway

A great value pack that does what it’s supposed to do – provide you with a comfortable and lightweight hydration solution while you run.

Teton Sports Trailrunner Hydration Pack

TETON Sports TrailRunner 2 Hydration Pack; 2-Liter Hydration Backpack with Water Bladder; for Backpacking, Hiking, Running, Cycling, and Climbing (Black)
  • WATER NEVER TASTED SO GOOD: During a long hike having water so convenient and still cold…there’s nothing like it. Lightweight with a custom fit, you’ll forget you have it on until you need it. This hydration pack give you plenty of water for your day hike
  • HYDRATION BLADDER INCLUDED: 2-liter water bladder included; Complete with durable, kink-free sip tube and innovative push-lock cushioned bite valve; Large 2-inch (5 cm) opening for ice that also makes cleaning easy
  • GET THE PERFECT FIT: Low-profile athletic cut with full adjustment fits all body types comfortably; Comfort-taped straps with high-density foam means you can wear this pack comfortably for hours, Water backpack for hiking fits men, women, and youth
  • LOADED WITH FEATURES: The Trailrunner hiking backpack with 2L hydration bladder; Large pocket with a hidden-teeth zipper: Weather guard protects everything you’re packing; Bungee cord system for bike helmet; etc.
  • TETON SPORTS PROMISE: Reach out to our AMAZING product support team if you have any questions or concerns; YOU CAN COUNT ON US to get you taken care of and back OUTDOORS

Review: The Teton Sports Trailrunner comes equipped with a BPA free 2L water bladder and is great for both road and off-road running.

Reflective trim keeps you visible at night, chest shock absorber reduces bounce, and a deep mesh pocket provides storage for valuables and snacks. With the different sizes to choose from and the highly adjustable straps, you can be assured of a snug, bounce-free fit.

Weighing in at 14.4 oz., this is a great option for those who don’t want to fork out for a top of the range pack.

Pros

  • Extremely good value for money.
  • Many sizes to choose from.
  • Highly adjustable straps.
  • Includes safety features such as orange whistle and reflective strips.
  • Streamlined shape.
  • Easy refill and cleaning.
  • External bungee for extra storage.

Cons

  • Limited extra storage.

Takeaway

This is excellent value for money option for trail runners and road runners alike who are looking for a comfortable pack with ample hydration volume and don’t need too much extra storage space.

Another great option for marathons and day hikes.

Osprey Women’s Dyna 1.5 Hydration Vest

Osprey Dyna 1.5 Women's Running Hydration Vest, Purple Storm , Small/Medium
  • Zippered reservoir sleeve with included Hydraulics LT 1.5 liter reservoir by Hydrapak with QuickConnect and sternum magnet included
  • Vertical zippered harness slash pocket with whistle zipper pull and trekking pole attachment
  • Dual lower stretch mesh food supplement harness pockets
  • Dual extra-large stretch mesh soft flask food harness pockets
  • Accessible dual lower side panel zippered stretch mesh pocket

Review: With its female-specific design and included 1.5L water bladder, this minimalist vest is another top-rated women’s hydration pack for those who want to feel as though they’re not wearing anything.

At just 9.6 oz., with room for water, a layer and a snack, this is an extremely lightweight option, great for the minimalists out there!

Pros

  • Magnet on sternum strap for drinking hose.
  • Ultra-lightweight, minimalist design.
  • Small emergency whistle.
  • Breathable mesh.
  • Bladder included.
  • Adjustable and removable chest straps.

Cons

  • Size small is very small.
  • Not as comfortable as the more expensive women’s packs.

Takeaway

This is the best running hydration vest if you want a minimalist experience, useful for short runs or longer runs.

High Sierra Women’s Propel 70 Hydration Pack

Review: Simple and functional, the High Sierra Propel 70 has no gimmicks and gets the job done. It comes with a 2L water bladder which is BPA free and antimicrobial, and has a 6L storage capacity so plenty of space for a spare jersey and some snacks.

The padded back panel and straps are made of moisture-wicking mesh for comfort and breathability, and the Women’s Propel has a female-specific fit.

At 20.8 oz, this isn’t the most lightweight pack but it’s versatile and affordable.

Pros

  • Bounce reduction strapping system.
  • Good number of pockets.
  • Versatile.
  • Comes with 2L bladder that is easy to use and clean.
  • Affordable.
  • Gender-specific design.

Cons

  • No sternum strap so possibly better for hiking than running.

Takeaway

Not at the top of the list of best hydration packs, but here to provide some options as we all have different body shapes and criteria.

This pack is an affordable option for someone who may use it for a bit of hiking and cycling as well.

Arc’teryx Norvan 14 Hydration Vest

Arc'teryx Norvan 14 Hydration Vest Black SM
  • Ideal for trail running and rough terrain, the Arc'teryx® Norvan 14 Hydration Vest helps take you to the next level.
  • Single, 12L compartment with a roll-top bag with multiple closure options.
  • Internal zipper pockets for added organization.
  • Four envelope pockets at front with two pockets that are designed to be compatible with 500ml soft flasks.
  • Two zipper pockets at front. 2 mesh pockets at rear with pole carry pockets and tension straps. 2L Source™ hydration reservoir included. Detachable emergency whistle at right shoulder. Adjustable sternum straps with side tension belts for added stability. 100% nylon. Imported. Measurements: Length: 20 in Product measurements were taken using size MD. Please note that measurements may vary by size.

Review: This hydration vest is durable, very comfortable, and lightweight. You can forget you’re wearing it, with no hot spots or rubbing.

It’s loaded with pockets so you definitely won’t run out of places to put stuff. Two of the front mesh pockets come loaded with 500ml squeezy bottles, while the 12L main compartment comes with a 2L hydration bladder.

It also comes in 3 sizes and the two front straps are easily adjustable for the perfect fit.

Pros

  • Super stretchy pockets.
  • Very durable.
  • 2L hydration bladder included.
  • 12L weather-resistant main compartment.
  • 2 sternum straps for extra stability.

Cons

  • Sternum straps are very thin.

Takeaway

This is a very highly rated hydration vest and could be the best hydration pack for trail running due to its durable, weather proof design.

Nathan Trail Mix Hydration Running Belt

Nathan Hydration Running Belt Trail Mix - Adjustable Running Belt - Includes 2 Bottles - Fits iPhone 6/7/8 Plus and Other 6.5 Inch Smartphones - Black/Safety Yellow
  • FITS LARGE PHONES - iPhone 6/7/8 Plus and Other 6.5 Inch Smartphones -- can hold car keys, ID’s and more to keep your hands free while running and hiking
  • STAY HYDRATED WHILE YOU RUN - Includes two 10oz/300mL bottles with push-pull caps for easy access to hydration and nutrition during your run
  • EXTENDED COMFORT - Adjustable belt stays snug, doesn’t bounce, shift, chafe, or rub so you can stay focused and comfortable
  • SPEEDFIT HOLSTERS - Secures your bottle for one-handed hydration, includes 2 bottles to keep your water and electrolytes separate
  • YOUR FAVORITE COLOR - Choose from a variety of different colors to match your style -- reflective trim for enhanced safety

Review: Includes 2 x 300ml bottles so less liquid capacity than a hydration vest, but if you’re just after a little rehydration and the convenience of being able to carry some snacks and valuables, then a belt might be a great way to go.

Stretchy straps make for a snug, bounce-free fit, while secure bottle holsters reassure you that you won’t lose your bottles mid-run. The bottles are also easy to access while on the go.

Not as roomy in terms of pocket space compared to some other belts on the market, but the Trail Mix carries everything you need for a minimalist run – keys, phone and snacks.

Pros

  • Comfortable.
  • Snug fit.
  • Non-bounce and non-twist design.
  • Adjustable.
  • Reflective trim.
  • Zip pockets for valuables.
  • Durable materials and well made.

Cons

  • Doesn’t fit larger smartphones.

Takeaway

This is likely to be the best hydration belt for running 2024 owing to its great design. If you want to be able to fit your iPhone 6, may need to upgrade to the Trail Mix Plus.

If you’re interested in more belts as an alternative to the vest design, check out our list of the best running belts.

woman trail runner wearing hydration backpack and running on the mountain

Why Do You Need a Hydration Vest?

Hydration vests are the most convenient way to carry water while you run, without the bulkiness of a conventional backpack cramping your stride and without having to stop and rummage through said backpack to find your bottles.

The best ones are also designed to minimize bounce so that you forget you’re wearing them, and provide plenty of ventilation across your back so that you and the vest don’t get excessively sweaty.

Some hydration vests are even gender-specific which makes for a more comfortable fit.

But how do you choose?

Things to Consider When Choosing Your Best Running Backpack

trail runners running on trail

  • Hydration system – Do you prefer to drink out of bottles a straw from a bladder or both?
  • Breathability – Is the back panel well designed with plenty of mesh to allow your back to breath?
  • Comfort – Will the vest bounce or chafe your skin?
  • Durability – Will it be worth your money in the long run?
  • Size and fit – Is it a one size fits all deal or is the size right for you? Are there enough adjustable straps?
  • Pockets – How much extra storage do you need? Do you run with food or extra clothing?
  • Liquid volume – How many liters are you likely to drink while wearing the vest? Don’t carry more than you need – it’ll just weigh you down!
  • Waterproof – Are you likely to be running in the rain? This only matters if you’re using the vest to carry something like your phone which can’t get wet. But even if the whole thing isn’t waterproof, there should at least be a waterproof pocket for valuables.

In order to decide on these considerations, you need to know what you want to use your hydration pack for.

Different priorities will be at play depending on whether you want to hit mountain trails or a road marathon, whether you want to be out for hours on end or just 1 hour, and whether you will be encountering changeable weather or constant sun.

For example, the best hydration packs for marathon running are going to be those packs that provide a comfortable, bounce-free fit, are as light as possible and focus on the hydration system without necessarily providing room for storage of things that you may prefer not to be weighed down by on race day.

The best hydration pack for running half marathon will be even lighter with literally just enough space for essentials like a few gels.

Conversely, if ultra running is your thing, hitting the trails in the variable weather conditions of the mountains may call for more storage space in order to be prepared for a wide range of situations, and a waterproof pack may be advantageous.

Once you’ve decided on your criteria, with the help of the above list, you should be able to choose the best running backpack to tick all of your boxes.

trail runner looking at heart rate monitor watch

What else can I help you with?

If you’re interested in hydration packs, I’m probably right in thinking you’re into long-distance running? Make sure your shoes are up to the task and choose your next best long-distance running shoes here!

When you’re covering more miles, nutrition becomes even more important, right? It’s true what they say, you are what you eat!

Runners need to be fuelled effectively in order to train and recover effectively. If you’re not sure whether you’re getting what you need from your current diet, be sure to have a read of our guides to the best pre-workout supplements for running and protein powders for runners so that your nutrition won’t be the thing holding you back from your best performance!

And while we’re talking about performance, do you track your stats? Or do you currently use your phone to navigate?

We have a guide to the best trail running watches on the market which is definitely where you need to start your search if your watch is in need of an update.

FAQ

fitness woman runner trail running

Are Hydration Packs Good for Running?

If you’re likely to be running for more than 2 hours without access to water, or more than an hour if the weather is hot, then a hydration pack is pretty essential to make sure you stay hydrated.

Do Marathon Runners Wear Hydration Packs?

This depends on the marathon and the runner. A lot of marathons provide drink stations where you can grab something to drink mid-race.

But, some people prefer to have their own sports drink on hand, or want to make sure they can sip smaller amounts at more regular intervals than the drink stations might allow.

It’s a very personal choice, but yes, some marathon runners do wear hydration packs.

Will My Shoulders Get Tired from Carrying the Pack?

No. If your hydration pack fits you properly and your chest straps are adjusted appropriately, the weight of the pack should be evenly distributed across your back and chest so your shoulders shouldn’t get tired.

How do You Run with a Hydration Pack?

If you’ve chosen a good hydration pack for running, then you shouldn’t need to run any differently. The hydration pack should stay in place and not bounce or cause you to change your running style.

How Much Water Should You Carry when Running?

This depends on how long you’re running for. But, unless the weather is dangerously hot (in which case you probably should be choosing a cooler time of day to run!), most runners won’t drink more than 250ml or 8-9 fluid ounces per hour.

Are Hydration Backpacks Comfortable to Wear?

Good hydration packs for running are comfortable to wear, yes. But the key is in the fit!

So there we have it, the best hydration packs for running of 2024.

We hope you enjoyed reading this guide and manage to find a hydration solution that leaves you running comfortably and hydrated!

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