Water Bottles vs. Water Bladders: The Hydration Showdown

When it comes to hiking, staying hydrated is non-negotiable. But the question of how to carry your water often sparks lively debate among outdoor enthusiasts. Should you stick with trusty water bottles, or is a water bladder (hydration reservoir) the superior choice? Let’s break it down so you can decide what works best for your adventures.

Water Bottles: The Classic Companion

Why Choose The Classic

1. Durability: Water bottles are built to last. Brands like Nalgene, Hydro Flask, and CamelBak offer rugged bottles that can handle drops, bumps, and scrapes.
   
   
2. Ease of Refilling: Bottles are straightforward to fill at streams, lakes, or water stations. Their wide openings make it easy to add ice or water purification tablets.
   
   
3. Multi-Purpose: A water bottle can double as a hot water bottle for chilly nights or a shaker for electrolyte powders.
   
   
4. Transparency: Many water bottles are clear, so you can easily see how much water you have left.
   
   
5. Cleaning Simplicity: Bottles are easier to clean thoroughly, especially if you’re using a dishwasher.
   

The Disadvantages

1. Bulkiness: Depending on the shape, bottles can be awkward to pack or carry in side pockets.

2. Limited Capacity: Even large bottles cap out around 1.5 liters, which means carrying multiple bottles for long hikes.

3. Accessibility: Bottles often require you to stop, open your pack, and retrieve them, interrupting your hiking flow.

Water Bladders: Hydration On-the-Go

The Pros

1. Convenience: The attached hose allows for hands-free drinking, so you can hydrate without breaking stride.
   
   
2. High Capacity: Bladders often hold 2 to 3 liters, making them ideal for long hikes or areas with limited water sources.
   
   
3. Packability: A water bladder fits snugly inside your backpack, saving space compared to bulky bottles.
   
   
4. Weight Distribution: Placing the bladder in the designated pack sleeve helps maintain balanced weight distribution.
   

The Cons

1. Water Monitoring: It’s hard to track how much water you’ve consumed until it’s gone.
   
   
2. Difficult Refills: Filling a bladder can be cumbersome, especially in tight spaces or shallow water sources.
   
   
3. Cleaning Challenges: The hose and reservoir can harbor bacteria if not cleaned and dried properly.
   
   
4. Durability Concerns: Bladders are prone to punctures or leaks, potentially soaking your gear.

Which Should You Choose?

The answer depends on your hiking style and needs. Here’s a quick guide:

Go for a water bottle if:

• You’re on a short or casual hike where frequent refills are easy.
• You prioritise durability and simplicity.
• You enjoy stopping to take in the views while hydrating.

Opt for a water bladder if:

• You’re tackling long distances or strenuous hikes where consistent hydration is crucial.
• You need to minimise weight and bulk in your pack.
• You prefer the convenience of hands-free drinking.

Our Preference

We advocate for carrying both! We carry a water bladder for immediate hydration and a bottle as a backup or for mixing electrolytes. This combination ensures you’re prepared for any scenario the trail throws your way. No matter your choice, the most important thing is to stay hydrated and to enjoy every step of your journey! 

Climb on!