10 Best CamelBak Backpacks In 2021

The interesting thing about the CamelBak Mil-Tac hydration backpacks from is their convenient Antidote access. This feature allows you to reach and refill the bladder directly instead of taking it out of the backpack (very handy when you’re on the move).

Bladder and Hydration

Similarly to the previous model, the CamelBak Mil-Tac features a compact 1.5-liter water reservoir. While it shares the title of the smallest one in our CamelBak reviews, it’s perfect for multi-hour activities where you want to keep the weight as low as possible.

Materials and Construction

The dimensions and fit of this backpack make it excellent for people with smaller body frames. Of course, the harness is easily adjustable so it can sit perfectly on your back. The shell itself is made from 200D polyester which is both lightweight and durable in outdoor conditions.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

Since its goal is to be compact and portable, the CamelBak Mil-Tac doesn’t offer too much additional storage. However, similarly to the previous model, it comes with a convenient zippered pocket on the outside where you can store small valuables.

Extra Features

A great detail about this hydration pack is that it comes with quick-release straps with buckles so you can easily get the backpack on and off. As a bonus, it also includes a chest strap to boost stability and weight distribution.

Thanks to the generous insulation around the bladder and drink tube, the CamelBak Zoid is the best choice for maintaining water temperature. Not only does it prolong ice life and keep water cool in the summer, but it also prevents it from freezing in the winter. Because of this and its low bulk, the Zoid is very popular for skiing and snowboarding.

Bladder and Hydration

The capacity of the Crux bladder in the Zoid CamelBak day pack is 2 liters and it has a low-profile design to reduce the bulk of the hydration pack. As we’ve pointed out, both the bladder and the hose are insulated with thick foam, and the hose even has a special protective pocket built into the shoulder strap.

Materials and Construction

Made from 200D polyester, the Zoid is very comfortable to wear and weighs only 10 ounces. It’s very slim so you can wear it over or under your jacket, and it’s fully ski-lift friendly so you can keep it on when you climb on the lift.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

Thanks to the small storage compartment, the Zoid backpack allows you to bring an extra layer of clothing with you. On top of this, it also features a small essentials pocket with a key clip inside.

Extra Features

The CamelBak Ambush focuses on the smart and functional design which is why it’s one of the most user-friendly hydration systems that you’ll come across. Some of its great features include multiple drink tube ports, external reservoir access, and side buckles on the shoulder straps for easily getting it on and off.

Bladder and Hydration

For covering your daily hydration needs, the bladder of this top rated CamelBak backpack comes with a 3-liter capacity. The hose has an excellent flow and you can thread it through six different openings and find the ideal position. Furthermore, it also features an on/off lever that prevents accidental leaks.

Materials and Construction

The body of the Ambush hydration pack is made from rugged 500D nylon. Besides tear-protection, it gives the hydration backpack a degree of water-resistance too. The back and shoulder straps are made from slightly lighter 420D nylon and the back panel even features a 5-millimeter foam pad to boost the comfort.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

When discussing storage, the Ambush isn’t the type of backpack you would take on multi-day trips. While the central compartment is entirely occupied by the bladder, the hydration backpack features zippered external pockets on the top and bottom where you can pack all the essentials you need.

If you enjoy hiking and backpacking in winter weather, the CamelBak ThermoBak is one of the best backpacks for the job. It’s completely insulated, ensuring that the water doesn’t freeze in the hose or tube. However, unlike the Zoid, the ThermoBak offers a larger bladder and a higher storage capacity which makes it more suitable for longer trips.

Bladder and Hydration

Like every other CamelBak hydration pack, the ThermoBak comes with a Crux reservoir included. This one has fits 3 liters of water so you won’t have to refill it often. Both the hose and the bladder are insulated with 7-millimeter cell foam which makes sure that the water remains drinkable.

Materials and Construction

Made from 500D Corduroy nylon, the body of this hydration pack can easily resist punctures, tears, or any other type of damage. Furthermore, it’s also fairly water-resistant so your valuables inside won’t get wet if you are caught in moderate rain.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

When it comes to storage, the ThermoBak is quite limited. Almost the entire main compartment is filled with the bladder so you will only have leftover space for essentials like wallet, keys, or phone. 

Extra Features

The combination of mesh shoulder straps and Air Director back panel makes the CamelBak Lobo the best hydration pack when it comes to ventilation and breathability. The entire backpack weighs only 1 pound which makes it perfect for demanding activities because it won’t burden you too much.

Bladder and Hydration

Despite being lightweight and fairly compact, the CamelBak Lobo features a fairly large bladder. It has a capacity of 3 liters and guarantees you will stay hydrated throughout the day. The water flow is excellent and refilling the bladder is easy thanks to the ergonomic handle.

Materials and Construction

Compared to other models, the shell of the CamelBak Lobo is made from slightly lighter nylon fabric. Still, with a 100D rating, it’s more than ready for any type of outdoor challenge. On the other hand, both the back panel and the shoulder straps are made from mesh that prevents your back from sweating in hot weather.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

In terms of gear storage, the Lobo doesn’t offer a lot. Besides the 3-liter bladder, it has room for additional 6 liters of gear. This will be enough for shorter one-day hikes but won’t suffice for multi-day trips.

Extra Features

Even though it’s fairly small, the CamelBak Lobo manages to fit quite a few features. It comes with external hooks to carry your helmet, has a removable stability belt around your waist, and even features reflective accents on the front to make you more visible at night.

For those of you who need a full-size backpack with a hydration option, the H.A.W.G. is the best CamelBak backpack that you can get. With a storage capacity of 23 liters, it offers more than enough space for packing multi-day equipment. This is paired with a 3-liter wide-mouth bladder so you’re getting a really well-rounded backpack for every type of adventure.

Bladder and Hydration

The great thing about the bladder in the H.A.W.G backpack is that it's designed to fit the whole daily ration of water, so you won’t have to stop for a refill. In addition, the backpack features several tube ports so you can thread the hose however it suits you best. As for the hose itself, it features a user-friendly on/off lever, a bite cover, and a separate valve at the base of the bladder to open and close the flow.

Materials and Construction

To make sure the bag is durable in rough outdoor conditions, the CamelBak H.A.W.G is made of tough Cordura nylon. The fabric has a 500 Denier rating which guarantees that it will easily resist tears and abrasion. Of course, it offers decent water-protection too and you can even safely wash it in a machine.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

The storage capacity of the CamelBak H.A.W.G is 23 liters or around 6 gallons. For easier packing, the main compartment is divided into two sections. A thing we particularly like is that the backpack can easily accommodate a second bladder which can be very useful if you’re going into the backcountry.

Simple and compact, the Cloud Walker is an ideal lightweight CamelBak for hiking. It weighs less than 1.5 pounds which means it will feel great on your back throughout the day. Combine this with a decent 2.5-liter bladder and you get an excellent option for your outdoor adventures.

Bladder and Hydration

As we’ve pointed out, the Crux water bladder fits 2.5 liters of water inside. In standard (not too demanding) conditions, this will keep you hydrated on a day trip. Of course, it’s made from safe materials, treated against micro-organisms, and features the well-known leak-proof system.

Materials and Construction

The body of the Cloud Walker backpack is made from sustainable synthetics which is both durable and eco-friendly. Furthermore, the backpack also features a mesh panel on the back which provides excellent ventilation in warm weather.

Storage (Compartments and Pockets)

Considering that it’s very compact, the storage capacity of the CamelBak Cloud Walker is very impressive. The main compartment fits 15.5 liters inside so you’ll easily fit everything you need for the day. As a bonus, the bag also has separate pockets for easily organizing your gear.

Extra Features