Best Hydration Packs for Skiing and Snowboarding: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2023

by Frank V. Persall

Most people tend to neglect the importance of staying hydrated while they are out skiing in the snow. It is cold out here anyway, what would dehydrate me? This is a myth that most of us believe in and let me bust it for you: it doesn't matter if you are surrounded by water, as long as you are not consuming it, you are going to get dehydrated eventually.

Skiing and snowboarding are an extreme sport that takes up a lot of your body's energy. The weather does not affect whatsoever on your body's requirements for fluids and nutrition. Therefore, if your water intake is low when you are skiing, don't be surprised if you end up performing badly. Neglecting the basic need of your body will only result in your body giving up and lowering your stamina. Consequently, you won't be able to ski as well as you do normally.

So, what's the solution to this problem? You obviously can't carry a water bottle in your hand while skiing. What you can carry is a hydration pack. It is just like a bag pack that will contain your water and makes it available for you to drink it frequently and efficiently without having to use your hands.

Next question: what is the best hydration pack for skiing and snowboarding? Just stay calm and read this article until the very end. It will answer all your queries regarding hydration packs and also help you make a choice about which hydration pack should you go for.

Starting with the best options for you in the market, the following is a list that contains information about some of the best hydration packs for skiing and snowboarding. Refer to the list below, who knows maybe you'll find something worth buying?

Top 6 Best Hydration Packs for Skiing and Snowboarding 2023

Top 6 Best Hydration Packs for Skiing and Snowboarding 2023
Top 6 Best Hydration Packs for Skiing and Snowboarding 2023

1. Hydration Pack by Vibrelli - Link

Vibrelli Hydration Pack & 2L Hydration Water Bladder - High Flow Bite Valve - Hydration Backpack with Storage - Lightweight Running Backpack, Also for Cycling, Hiking, Ski, Snow for Men, Women & Kids
Vibrelli Hydration Pack & 2L Hydration Water Bladder - High Flow Bite Valve - Hydration Backpack with Storage - Lightweight Running Backpack, Also for Cycling, Hiking, Ski, Snow for Men, Women & Kids

With over 6000 ratings on Amazon, this hydration pack has managed to achieve an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5. A rating above 4.5 stars is evidence in itself of how great the product is. The use of this hydration pack is not just limited to when you go out skiing or snowboarding. Instead, you can carry it along while running, biking, cycling, and even hiking. This means you won't have to pack it up and store it away every time the cold season bids farewell. You can bring it to use for the entire year.

Besides this, the Vibrelli hydration pack also has a list of other features. Let's go through them along with some of its pros and cons:

List of Features:

  • It is available in four different colors i.e. green, black, blue, and orange.
  • It costs 24 dollars.
  • It is made up of nylon.
  • Its dimensions are 16x12x3 inches.
  • It weighs 0.42 Kilograms.
  • It has an insulated water bladder.
  • It comes with a whistle for emergency situations.
  • The water bladder is PVC and BPA-free.
  • It comes with a 5-year warranty.
  • It has an adjustable size.
  • The water bladder has a valve for on and off.

Pros:

  • It is as light as a feather which makes carrying it easier.
  • Since the water bladder is PVC and BPA-free, it preserves the taste of water throughout the day.
  • It has several pockets for storage purposes.
  • The adjustable size makes it perfect for all ages.
  • The on and off valve on the water bladder prevents the risk of accidental leakage.
  • It is durable.
  • It is inexpensive.

Cons:

  • The short length of waist straps makes it less ideal for overweight users.
  • The design could be better but it is fair considering the price you pay for it.

2. CamelBak Bootlegger Hydration Pack for Skiing - Link

CamelBak Bootlegger Hydration Pack, Black, 50 Oz
CamelBak Bootlegger Hydration Pack, Black, 50 Oz

This hydration pack is specifically designed to contain 1.5 liters of water only. It is on this list because it is one of the best hydration packs that you can get your hands on. Its minimalistic design allows you to wear a jacket over it. Plus, the insulation keeps your water warm and prevents it from freezing in the cold.

This hydration pack has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars with a lot of positive reviews from its buyers. Learn more about its features, pros, and cons by reading the lists below.

List of Features:

  • It weighs 240 grams only.
  • It is available in black color.
  • Its dimensions are 15.35 x 1.77 x 9.65 inches.
  • It has a capacity of carrying 1.5 Liters of water.
  • It comes with an ergonomic handle that ensures painless refilling.
  • In order to avoid leakage, the water bladder comes with an on and off valve.
  • The pack comes with two sternum straps that fix the position of the pack on the back, restricting its movement.
  • The tube comes covered with a bite valve cover to prevent the water from any exposure with the extreme weather conditions outside.
  • The straps are adjustable.
  • The Crux reservoir allows 20% more water in every sip.

Pros:

  • It is easy to assemble and carry.
  • It is lightweight so doesn't put a burden on your back while skiing.
  • Cleaning this hydration pack is also a piece of cake.
  • It is inexpensive.
  • It has a great design which makes it a perfect combination of style and comfort.
  • Its size is perfect for traveling.

Cons:

  • It is not comfortable to wear if you are bulky.
  • It can sometimes leak so you need to stay cautious of that.

3. Ski Hydration Backpack by Unigear - Link

Unigear Ski Hydration Backpack, 30L Snowboard Travel Bag 900D Polyester Water-resistant Backpack for Skiing, Hiking, Camping (Red)
Unigear Ski Hydration Backpack, 30L Snowboard Travel Bag 900D Polyester Water-resistant Backpack for Skiing, Hiking, Camping (Red)

Whether or not you could get your friends to accompany you to the upcoming snow festival, this bag should definitely be your companion! Not just skiing, you can carry it along to your hiking and camping trips as well. Moreover, if you love to keep your things organized, this is definitely the right hydration pack for you. It has huge separate compartments in which you can fit your stuff in an organized manner so you don't have to dive into the bag to retrieve them later.

It is absolutely perfect in every way and given the price of this item, it has some amazing features to offer. But before we move towards that, let's not forget to mention that the Unigear hydration pack has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon with over 100 reviews from customers all around the world.

Following is a list of features, pros, and cons of this hydration pack. Let's find out what they are!

List of Features:

  • It is water-resistant.
  • It weighs 1.2 Kilograms.
  • Its dimensions are ‎22.52 x 14.76 x 3.86 inches.
  • It is available in three different colors including black, grey, and red.
  • It is large, spacious, and has multiple compartments.
  • It can carry 30L of water.
  • It is compatible with a 3L bladder.
  • The slash pocket is scratch-free.
  • It is made from polyester.

Pros:

  • It can fit multiple things in it at once.
  • It has a glove compartment at the front so you don't have to dig in the bag to find gloves when you need them.
  • It keeps your back dry all day.
  • It is durable.
  • Their customer service is extremely cooperative and you can get in touch with them anytime you encounter a problem with this hydration pack.
  • It is cheap.

Cons:

  • It weighs slightly more than the other hydration backpacks on this list.
  • It can be hand-washed only.
  • The waist strap is non-removable.

4. CamelBak Hydration Pack 50 oz. - Link

CamelBak Hydrobak Hydration Pack 50 oz
CamelBak Hydrobak Hydration Pack 50 oz

CamelBak is a company known for producing the best quality hydration packs since the late 80s. We have previously gone through another one of CamelBak's hydration packs in the list and this one is no less than the other ones. It has above 4000 global ratings and has an average star rating of 4.6 out of 5.

It is an easy-to-use one-stop solution for your dehydration. It is so comfortable that most of the time you will not even notice that it is there. I have combined a list of features of this hydration pack by CamelBak in the list below. Go through it and see for yourself what this product has to offer!


List of Features:

  • It weighs 5.3 ounces.
  • It is available in 5 different colors such as black, camo, blue, red, and yellow.
  • It has a safe zip pocket to carry essentials such as keys and other stuff.
  • The Crux Reservoir allows a high flow of water enabling the intake of 20% more water in every sip.
  • The handle of the reservoir is ergonomic.
  • The water bladder can be turned on and off by using the valve designed for this purpose.
  • The breathable material of the back of the pack keeps your back cool and dry.
  • Its dimensions are 12.6 x 8.5 x 3.9 inches.

Pros:

  • The ergonomic handle ensures a strong grip even while wearing gloves.
  • The valve on the water bladder ensures there are no accidental leaks.
  • It is lightweight which doesn't hinder your speed and is easy to carry.
  • The Company offers a lifetime guarantee on all of its products.

Cons:

  • It is pricey considering other similar hydration backpacks on the list.
  • The flip switch is a bit rigid at first which makes it hard to use.

5. Tactical Hydration Backpack by Unigear - Link

Unigear Tactical Hydration Packs Backpack 1050D with 2.5L Water Bladder, Thermal Insulation Pack Keeps Liquid Cool up to 4 Hours for Hiking, Cycling, Hunting and Climbing (Black)
Unigear Tactical Hydration Packs Backpack 1050D with 2.5L Water Bladder, Thermal Insulation Pack Keeps Liquid Cool up to 4 Hours for Hiking, Cycling, Hunting and Climbing (Black)

Hydration packs by Unigear are a must-have if you are someone who regularly goes for skiing, snowboarding, hunting, hiking, or camping. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars, this hydration pack has over 1000 reviews from all around the world with people simply loving it! Value for money, comfort, and durability are the top 3 things that customers love the most about the tactical hydration pack by Unigear.

If I talk about its features, they are no less than that of the other hydration packs mentioned in this list. And just to remind you, all of these hydration packs are the best options in the market. So, let's get into the details of the features, pros, and cons of this one:

List of Features:

  • It costs 37 dollars.
  • It is available in 4 different colors such as grey, green, tan, and black.
  • It comes with a 2.5L water bladder.
  • It is thermally insulated to keep your water's temperature constant for a maximum of 4 hours.
  • It comes with a slash pocket that is zipped and scratch-free for your essentials.
  • The main compartments can be secured by a buckle to fix the position.
  • The water can be refilled using the external port.
  • It is made of nylon material.
  • The water bladder is BPA free and the handle has an ergonomic design.
  • It weighs 0.94 Kilograms.
  • It has a 60-day warranty.

Pros:

  • The ergonomic handle provides a strong grip even when wearing gloves.
  • If you are not satisfied with the pack, you can ask for a refund within 60 days of the purchase and you will get 100% of your payment back without any questions asked.
  • The bag is spacious enough to carry important things without feeling or looking bulky.
  • It is lightweight which makes it easier to carry it on your back.
  • The BPA-free water bladder keeps your water tasting fresh all day long.
  • It is durable and lasts a long time.

Cons:

  • It costs more than the other hydration packs on the list even though the offered features are similar.

6. Innerfit Hydration Backpack and Water Bladder - Link

InnerFit Insulated Hydration Backpack and Water Bladder, Durable Camel Backpack Hydration Pack - Running, Hiking, Biking and Outdoor Activities - Lightweight Water Backpack (Ruby)
InnerFit Insulated Hydration Backpack and Water Bladder, Durable Camel Backpack Hydration Pack - Running, Hiking, Biking and Outdoor Activities - Lightweight Water Backpack (Ruby)

If using things delicately to make them last a long time is not your area of expertise and you end up damaging your goods sooner than they should have lasted, then you may want to consider getting this hydration backpack for your skiing and snowboarding trips. Unlike the other regular hydration packs, this one is made up of a special material that makes it perfect for rough and tough use. It won't scratch or tear apart after a very casual trip. So this one is the most reliable and durable option in this list as it is designed specifically for customers who prefer getting products that will last longer.

This hydration pack has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars with over 1100 positive reviews. It appears that customers are highly satisfied with this product. But why? Let's find out by going through the following lists that mention its features, pros, and cons.

List of Features:

  • It costs approximately 25 dollars.
  • It is available in 2 different vibrant colors i.e. Ruby red and Turquoise green.
  • It is made from top-quality rip-stop material.
  • It has a water bladder having a capacity of 1.8L of water.
  • It has reflective bands on either shoulder strap for extra safety.
  • The elastic absorbers allow adjustments to be made.
  • The chest straps are highly adjustable to fit all body sizes.
  • The hosepipe keeps the bladder secure.
  • It comes with multiple compartments with enough space for your stuff.
  • It weighs 0.69 Kilograms.

Pros:

  • It is perfect for people who want their things in a certain way. You can organize your stuff any way you want in the 6 spacious compartments.
  • The adjustability of straps makes this bag ideal for all body types and sizes.
  • The bladder is made of a supreme quality that ensures zero leaks, zero taste, and zero BPA.
  • The insulation keeps your water at a constant temperature for a long period.
  • The zipped pockets ensure the safety of your belongings and keep them in place.

Cons:

  • the quality of the bag pack seems a bit compromised but it is perfect according to the price.
  • It is slightly uncomfortable because of the shoulder straps as they are not adjusted well.
  • The hydration pack is quite small in size.

Well, that was the end of the list. Now that you have a limited number of options to choose from, what will determine which hydration pack from the six of these should you purchase? Hydration backpacks need to be perfect as per your need because they are more of a long-term investment as most people don't look forward to upgrading their hydration packs now and then. You will never find the right product for you if you believe other people's opinions and buy what worked for them. Instead, the key to buying the right product is to conduct your own research. Explore, find, learn, and then make a well-informed decision! And this guide is all about it.

Following are some frequently asked questions about hydration packs for skiing and snowboarding. Read the answers to the following questions before making your mind about any hydration pack!


Hydration Pack Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Why should the hydration packs be insulated?

Answer: Imagine this: You are skiing in the snow and you feel a bit thirsty. You take out the mouthpiece and try to sip water from your hydration pack but no water comes out. The extreme temperature on the outside has caused the water inside to freeze! So, insulated hydration backpacks are used for sports that are played in extreme weather conditions to keep the temperature of your water constant throughout the day!

What is the ideal fluid capacity for a hydration pack?

Answer: The hydration packs have various fluid capacities. They can range from 1.5 Liters to 3 Liters. There is no ideal fluid capacity that is suitable for everyone. Instead, it depends on the individual himself. For starters, if you consume more water on a daily average, then you may want to consider buying a hydration pack having greater fluid capacity.

Furthermore, the ideal fluid capacity for you also depends on the average time you are going to spend out in the snow skiing or snowboarding. If you are only going to spend a few hours, then there is no point in going for a large capacity. Whereas, if you are planning to spend an entire day then it is worth investing in a greater fluid capacity hydration pack.

What is the ideal cargo capacity for a hydration pack?

Answer: Just like the fluid capacity, cargo capacity also depends on how long you plan on spending the time on the field. If you are just going for a couple of hours, you will only need to pack a few things with you such as something to munch, an extra set of clothing, and some of your other essentials. While on the other hand, if you plan to stay for a day or more, you will need more of your stuff. Therefore, you need to choose the cargo capacity of your hydration pack accordingly.

What is the ideal size and fit for a hydration pack?

Answer: This question might be a little confusing. As so far, we have not come across any type of hydration pack that has different sizes. That's because hydration packs don't come in different sizes, there is only single standard size.

However, it is adjusted according to an individual's body size by making adjustments in the straps. But this does not mean that a large-sized hydration pack can be perfectly adjusted on the body of a petite person.

So before buying a hydration pack, you need to check for the measurements of shoulder and chest straps to make sure this one will fit you perfectly!

How often should I clean my hydration pack?

Answer: The response to this question depends on how often you use your hydration pack. If you are a frequent user, then it should be cleaned every few weeks or so.


Buy on Walmart

CamelBak M.U.L.E. Mountain Biking Hydration Backpack - Easy Refilling Hydration Backpack - Walmart Link

Mubasel Gear Hydration Backpack Pack with 2L BPA Free Bladder - Lightweight Pack Keeps - Walmart Link

Water Buffalo Hydration Pack Backpack - Water Backpack - 2L Water Bladder - Walmart Link

CamelBak Bootlegger Hydration Pack, Black, 50 Oz - Walmart Link

Vibrelli Hydration Pack & 2L Hydration Water Bladder - High Flow Bite Valve - Hydration - Walmart Link

Hydration Backpack-Hydration Pack with Water Bladder 2L (70 oz) in Lightweight Backpack - Walmart Link

U`Be Hydration Backpack Pack with 2l Water Bladder - Small Camelback for Kids Men & Women - Walmart Link

CamelBak Mil-Tac HydroBak Hydration Pack, 1.5L / 50 oz, Black - Walmart Link

CamelBak Zoid Hydration Pack, Black, 70 oz - Walmart Link

CamelBak Hydrobak Hydration Pack 50 oz - Walmart Link

InnerFit Insulated Hydration Backpack and Water Bladder, Durable Camel Backpack Hydration - Walmart Link

CamelBak Powderhound 12 100 oz Graphite/Adriatic Blue - Walmart Link

SKL Hydration Pack Water Backpack with Water Bladder 2L BPA Free Hydration Backpack for - Walmart Link

Osprey Kamber 16 Men's Ski Backpack, Galactic Black, One Size - Walmart Link

CamelBak - Mil-Spec Crux 50 oz/1.5L Accessory Reservoir (2053001015), Brown - Walmart Link

Aquatic Way Hydration Bladder Water Reservoir for Bicycling Hiking Camping Backpack. BPA - Walmart Link

Forney 70487 Tube Brush, Nylon with Wire Loop Handle, 15-1/2-Inch-by-1-1/4-Inch - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

CamelBak M.U.L.E. Mountain Biking Hydration Backpack - Easy Refilling Hydration Backpack - eBay Link

Mubasel Gear Hydration Backpack Pack with 2L BPA Free Bladder - Lightweight Pack Keeps - eBay Link

Water Buffalo Hydration Pack Backpack - Water Backpack - 2L Water Bladder - eBay Link

CamelBak Bootlegger Hydration Pack, Black, 50 Oz - eBay Link

Vibrelli Hydration Pack & 2L Hydration Water Bladder - High Flow Bite Valve - Hydration - eBay Link

Hydration Backpack-Hydration Pack with Water Bladder 2L (70 oz) in Lightweight Backpack - eBay Link

U`Be Hydration Backpack Pack with 2l Water Bladder - Small Camelback for Kids Men & Women - eBay Link

CamelBak Mil-Tac HydroBak Hydration Pack, 1.5L / 50 oz, Black - eBay Link

CamelBak Zoid Hydration Pack, Black, 70 oz - eBay Link

CamelBak Hydrobak Hydration Pack 50 oz - eBay Link

InnerFit Insulated Hydration Backpack and Water Bladder, Durable Camel Backpack Hydration - eBay Link

CamelBak Powderhound 12 100 oz Graphite/Adriatic Blue - eBay Link

SKL Hydration Pack Water Backpack with Water Bladder 2L BPA Free Hydration Backpack for - eBay Link

Osprey Kamber 16 Men's Ski Backpack, Galactic Black, One Size - eBay Link

CamelBak - Mil-Spec Crux 50 oz/1.5L Accessory Reservoir (2053001015), Brown - eBay Link

Aquatic Way Hydration Bladder Water Reservoir for Bicycling Hiking Camping Backpack. BPA - eBay Link

Forney 70487 Tube Brush, Nylon with Wire Loop Handle, 15-1/2-Inch-by-1-1/4-Inch - eBay Link

Conclusion for Hydration Pack Buyers

So now you have all the necessary information and knowledge that you should have before purchasing a hydration pack for skiing and snowboarding. The most important thing to remember here is to ensure that whatever hydration pack you choose to go for, has the best insulation system. As otherwise, it is pointless to carry a large amount of water on your back and not be able to drink it when you feel thirsty.

About Frank V. Persall

Frank is originally from the UK, but he has a passion for skiing that knows no bounds. He has made it his life's mission to visit the best ski resorts across the USA and the World. Frank loves spending time with his wife and three children on ski slopes, as they all share his love for the activity.

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