Goodbye Water Bladders | Why I quit and never looked back
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- Опубліковано 14 лют 2023
- In this video, I share 10 reasons why I quit using water bladders for backpacking.
I cover issues with water bladders such as difficulty in cleaning, risk of leaks and failure, efficiency, and overall functionality on the trail.
I also go over the cost and space considerations of water bladders and how they can negatively impact your backpacking experience.
If you're a hiker or backpacker who is considering switching to an alternative hydration system or is just curious about the pros and cons of water bladders, this video will give you an honest perspective of the top reasons why you might want to consider leaving water bladders behind on your next trip.
As always, if you have any questions at all, leave a comment below or shoot me an email at emory@byland.co.
Here’s what I use instead of water bladders:
✅ Sawyer Squeeze: amzn.to/3jSZmrj (simple and easy)
✅ Platypus 2L Collapsible Water Bottle: amzn.to/3KaFCtD (this is great for when you have a longer water carry)
✅ Platypus 1L Collapsible Water Bottle: amzn.to/3YQ3k2p (I’ll use this when I know I won’t be needing the 2L version)
✅ Smart Water Bottle or similar (you can pick these up anywhere)
✅ Cnoc 1L Water Bottle: amzn.to/3k3Hgmj (I haven’t used one of these just yet, but I’m considering swapping to this instead of using a smart bottle in an effort to be a little more green)
ABOUT ME:
👋 My name is Emory, and I love helping people learn how to backpack, so I've dedicated this channel to offering practical tips and techniques, down-to-earth perspectives on gear, and general outdoor commentary to help you improve your experience in the backcountry.
Emory, By Land
P.S. Don't forget to check out my beginner backpacking course!
🎓 Beginner Backpacking Course: byland.co/learn-how-to-backpack
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👋 Contact: emory@byland.co
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The bladders are NOT difficult to clean. There are readily available tablets that you drop in (one), fill, set for 15 minutes, shake and rinse. Easy to clean.
Your idea of clean may be different than his too
They are easy to clean in did, but you dont need any tablets. simple clean with your hand and then rinse wil be just fine. Bladders have wide openings (if your have not it than you has bought wrong model) and its very easy to get there your hand.
Just use liquid bleach overnight. Cheaper and more effective
Using bladders for like 4 years of hiking and 2 years of biking and I like them!
Most concerns mentioned hold true. The only two I totally disagree with are:
they dont take more space. They take less. That's one of the biggest upsides. For one thing they slightly adapt to your packs content and also you're saving all the space that your cap and bottle take up. Especially on the bike that's a huge difference. If I have a frame bag and want to use the lower third of it for water (good to put heavy stuff low and center) I can either fit a 0.8l + 0.6l bottle. Or I can take a 3l hydration bladder and it takes the same space. When I use it up, I gain space. I don't gain space when I drink my water bottle empty.
The second one, but that might be personal: I don't simply fill it to the max. I go for what I estimate plus about 0.5l to be safe.
Then I kinda but no fully disagree with how you can overlook what's left, because you feel the weight go down and you feel less water sloshing around. But it's true, that's it is a lot more difficult to estimate what's left.
When it comes to bikes, I also use an extra bottle for isotonic drinks and such.
I also like, that I drink a lot more frequently with a bladder, especially on hikes. Because I don't have to awkwardly reach to my back and fish for my bottle and then try to cram it back.
Haven't ever had a puncture, hope I don't jinx it now. It also wasn't expensive. Source makes good quality bladders that cost 30€. Never used anything extra, except for a cleaning brush, which is 10€. My fidlock bottle for the bike was 35€ for a 0.8 bottle + mount :/
Edit: I forgott one unmentioned downside to bladders though, one that only affects the use while cycling.
The flow is lower than on dedicated cycling bottles which let you squeeze the bottle and it yields one big gulp in one breath. With the bladder, one breath is one sip. You can stay more focused on the track, but when you arent on a more relaxed part of your trip, its not that great. So its more interesting for longer/hotter tours. When your 1,6L from two bottles wont comfortably get you to the next stop or when you simply have a lot of flat parts that you can ride effortlessly.
For Hiking I use a 3L bladder exclusively. For cycling I have a 1,5L Bladder and two 0,8L Bottles. Depending on the tour and weather, I use more or less of those.
All very good points! Thanks for taking the time to chime in!
Can u tell what brand the water blader?
@@ryanjimmy361
Hiking: a regular 3L source bladder, you can get them cheap and replacing parts is easy.
Cycling: a 1,5 apidura frame bag support was great (sent me a free hose when I lost just the silicone tip) but its not cheap. It's designed for the apidura frame bag, but I have a Blackburn outpost and it works fine.
I did however change my setup a bit since I made the original comment. At least for cycling I try pack as little water as possible if I know I will come across water (which usually happens quite frequently where I live) I will use a katadyn beFree water filter and just refill.
I think what was meant in the video that the bladder eats up space i(inside) the pack, apposed to bottles on the outside.. I use only a 25 litre pack where space is at a premium, and I do also have a 55 litre, but don't always need it. I have an exo frame pack so not my bladder sits on the outside of my pack in the mesh, but still next to my back. I think bladders or bottles is just a personal preference, but I have opted for a drinks tube that screws on to my bottles now. You made some really valid points also. I know your comment on this video was 7 months ago now, and you may not remember...lol Happy trails bud.
@@sleepymandragora1392 I like Source Tactical bladders more than the blue Source Outdoor ones. They are quite similar but have nice extra features, e.g.: hose covers, quick connectors on both sides of the hose (Source Outdoor used to not have quick connectors at all, in the recent years they have added the quick connector on the bladder side, but the drinking valves are still using a barb fitting) - there are two styles of quick-connect valves available, Source Helix bite valve (same as on Source Outdoor bladders, but in the quick connect version) and Source Storm push-pull no-bite valve. Either valve can be quickly removed and an accessory called UTA plugged in, you can quickly refill the bladder without removing it from your backpack, using a regular water bottle or a tap. There are also a couple of variations of bladder sizing, e.g. in my Deuter Trans Alpine 32 EL I use a Source WXP Low Profile (LP) 3 l bladder, which is wider but thinner when full (compared to a regular 3 l bladder), it uses the space in the pack more efficiently.
I haven’t tried it YET but the conversion hoses that attach to water bottles seems like the best of both worlds to me. Having my water just a head turn away is not something I’m willing to give up lol
Fair enough!!
That is a great question! I’ll have to look into it
Same for me. I have shoulder issues and can never reach to pull a bottle out of the side of my pack. I'm usually hiking solo, so I don't have anyone to do it for me. Being able to sip is essential for me. I ordered a conversion kit from One Bottle; really hoping it works out
My dad made one of these 20+ years ago when we started hiking. Took some tubing, a Nalgene and drilled one sub diameter hole for the tubing, and a tiny one to let air in. Worked like a dream.
@brisketchick, any feedback on the conversion kit you ordered!?
I use both. 2.5 L bladder and 1.5-1.8 L single wall steel water bottle work perfectly together for me.
great video, I also gave up on bladders years ago for the same reasons, they're just very appealing when you're starting out because they look "pro" and you tend to nerd over gear too much. I think they only make sense in some sports, especially for racers when a bottle won't stay put or you're counting seconds
Well said! You're absolutely right. They look like a great idea but really only work in certain circumstances
Hi Emory, I'm 46 and been using bladders for the last 30yrs only ever had 2. A camelback for mountain biking. I wore out the bag. I have since switched to Hiking and the 3l Playtapus. I only buy bags with dedicated pockets for a bladder like the Osprey Talon 44, which means it has no effect on my main bag compartment. One huge tip I learnt!!!! After any trip I clean my bag, I don't dry it I chuck it in the freezer until next time! It can never get mouldy. I only carry water in my bladder. To fill a cup just stand up with bag on your back, keep the cup low. But I do see your point here. Everyone is different, whatever works for you aye. Cheers
🫡 well said sir! Thanks for the insight and perspective!!
I’ve gone the opposite way from bottles to water bag. I need atleast 2l per walk and they are stashed in side mesh sleeves on my backpack. But they push into the body of the bag reducing the internal compartment space considerably. Bladder has its own compartment so no sacrificing vital space for water. Plus bladder is £15, a fancy backpack with big pockets is £150.
Thanks for sharing your setup!
I'm going back to using reservoirs as well. I just put them in the back pack. Plus we don't have cars. And walk everywhere like in Europe. And when I'm holding things or groceries. I can't reach for a water bottle. So having something near my face is great. Plus with all the walking we do, The extra water is worth it.
My favorite setup has proven to be the combination of a 1L Smart Water bottle on the side of my bag and a 2L CNOC VectoX (the more durable version of the Vecto) with a Sawyer Squeeze. Gives me a lot of flexibility. I can do a long water carry if necessary, but most of the time, I drink my fill at a water source, then just filter enough to fill up the SW bottle and then roll up the empty VectoX and Sawyer and put it away. The best part is that when I get to camp, I can run a bit of spare guy line around a tree and hang the full VectoX from it, giving me a gravity feed system at camp. Ultimate flexibility and the VectoX bag only weighs 3.25 oz. They have a 3L version as well that’s only 3.7 oz but I’m in the southeast US and didn’t really see the need for the added capacity.
Love this! I want to give CNOC a try so maybe I’ll try your setup and see how it goes. Always enjoy trying new things.
Thanks for sharing your kit!
So you have a video of this set up to explain? I’m new to this and would love to know the best way to carry water.
Greetings brother,
Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights with others.
I appreciate your direct approach to gear and camp activities: simple, accessible, reliable.
Well done.
Thanks so much! I’m glad you enjoyed it!
GREAT VIDEO! For all the reasons mentioned, I too traded my backpack bladder for two quart size military canteens which fit perfectly in the outside pockets of my backpack.I don't hike a long way, but I do hunt. My bladder compartment makes a great place to store my compass and map.
Hey man. Great advice! I am currently using my 2nd water bladder. My 1st one did leak. I was just about to start using it in my new ruck bag but you changed my mind. Thanks!
Yo! Thanks for watching!
I think if you’re doing some kind of running or long distance rucking then a bladder is fine but man… if you’re in the backcountry and need water to remain in tact, you gotta go bottles.
P.S. I recently started using cycling bottles and they’re awesome!
Thanks for the video. I was considering getting one to use, but you explained a ton of reasons why this would be a disaster for me LOL.
haha! Glad I could help!
When I first started hiking, I used a bladder before switching to 1L Smart Bottles, about 7-8 months ago I switched to a water bottle that CNOC offers, the Vesica that is 1L and collapsible. It takes a little getting used to when filtering water but I’m very happy with them.
That’s what I’m thinking of swapping to. How does it compare? I really hate flimsy bottles when drinking
What is a smart bottle? Is there anything like a Grayl water filter bottle?
I've used waterbladders for years just to keep my hands free. You're right about many of your points though. Leaky bladders are bad in all senses of the phrase. I have had great luck with a 2.5L one from osprey with the hard back. That one fits in the bag easier and offers some protection for the bladder atleast on the back side. I only drink water out on hikes so it hasn't ever gunked up and I'm usually hiking in Texas... so the heat warrants a ton of water anyways. It's all case by case. I did a combination of water bottles and a bladder for hiking Zion once too.
Case by case - very wise words! Thanks for sharing your perspective and experience!
I’m gonna get the bag you mentioned since it sounds like you have had good experience with it, thanks for a recommendation (even tho you really didn’t recommend anything)
You make some good points there. I too don't like bladders for the same reasons, but miss the easy access to a mouth piece hose. I now use a tube and bite valve that screws on to my regular plastic dinks bottle, best of both words. Take it easy buddy.
I think it depends on your water drinking pattern and volume, i take small sips often like 30mins, so stopping, unloading, picking bottle, drink is too much work, than using a bladder, i carry an empty bottle for use at camp. Bottles are good if you either dont drink water that much or only after a long section
Great point and thanks for the perspective! I tend to not need water while I’m hiking so for me drinking on breaks works.
Thanks again!
I feel the same way, I won't stop to drink water until I'm dehydrated so I much prefer the convenience of a bladder (I only day hike so the backpacking/weight problems do not apply to me)
I like them for day hikes and trail runs. 3 cool things. 1 you can take a frozen water bottle cut it open and put it inside bladder before your hike. 2 if you are boating it will double as a flotation device. 3 you can keep it empty and just have it as an emergency kit item o. When I day hike I'm usually not worried about weight since day hikes are also exercise for me.
Never heard of it being used as a floatation device! Thanks for sharing!
I agree with all ten reasons! I recently started carrying a straw and bite valve set up from One Bottle Hydration. It just screws on to my Smart Water bottle.
Nice!
What is a smart water bottle and how do you use this setup? I’m new to this. I have a grayl now.
@@REDonFIRESmartwater is a brand of bottled water. It’s sold in a long tall bottle which fits perfectly in most backpack side pockets. I reuse the bottle over and over until it breaks or cracks. The system has a long drinking straw and a 28mm cap that fits the bottles top.
@@LostAgainwithJim Ooh. Duh I’ve seen those lol
And the straw is a feather filler?
I agree with all points, I prefer the trail series hydroflasks, which 25- 30 liter hiking bag do u suggest for desert hiking here in Arizona ?
When you see that after 3 hours in your hike you still have cold water coming from your blader, in comparing to a water bottle that is exposed to the sun and after 30 min you have hot water to drink, you can get over the fact that is hard to fill and clean.
PS: I'm using a 2.5L blader from camelbak for 3 years now and had no problem with it. 5 days ago, i just finished the TMB in 10 days with the same blader and no problem. I also had a 0.5l bottle for mixing my carbohydrates and using it in camping, but when you are in hiking mode and with the trekking poles in your hands, blader is the way to go.
Yep, totally get it! I used to be concerned about having cold water, but not anymore. Water is water so for me, it's not a factor. Stick with what you know and works, right!? That's great you found a system that functions how you need it. Keep it up!
I used to like the MSR Miniworks filter and reservoir system. The reservoir screws right onto the filter, so filling them is relatively easy (with the MSR filter). The wider opening also makes cleaning them a little easier, though there are Camelback reservoirs with even larger openings. The other benefit to having the water in your pack is that it puts the weight close to your body and centered. Bottles in side pockets get imbalanced as soon as you start drinking. The reservoirs are heavier and the MSR filter is much heavier than the squeeze filters (which didn't exist when I started backpacking). The biggest annoyance for me when I used a reservoir was putting it back in my pack once I had filled it. Pulling out the empty bladder wasn't too bad because it was empty, but getting a full tank back into a full pack is a big pain.
I am going to give the squeeze filters and Smart water bottle thing a try in my next couple of trips. I may like it enough to sell my old gear. But I'm not putting it up for sale just yet.
I would also add that I have never had one of the MSR reservoirs fail. They are made pretty tough.
Thanks for sharing your experience and setup! I think it’s ALWAYS worth trying something new and if it doesn’t work you can always revert back. 👊🏼👊🏼
I agree with you on all points. They have all of those drawbacks. My issues are related to carrying larger amounts of water. When climbing a small mountain, say near the Appalachians, sometimes there are no springs or they are hidden if there is one. A gallon per day is minimal in the summer. A three liter with additional bottle or two works out volume wise. Wish there were better options other than those or a one gallon hard plastic jug with screw on lid. It's collapsable but still sloshes. Another issue is the chemical plasticizers in bags. They are all harmful, not just BPA. I can taste it and wish stainless wasn't so heavy for that reason.
I hear ya. At the end of the day you just do what works best for the situation.
for hiking i would also go for a bottle i guess, but i think for biking they are more practical as a bottle.
Just pushing the mouthpiece into your mouth is much easier than
: stop, get off the bike, open your backpack/take out a bottle and drink. Pack it away (make sure it sits tight enough so that it doesn't fly away when jumping/heaving), put on the backpack, sit on the bike.
I'm considering switch to a watter bladder, but still have so many what ifs on my mind. And you answered all the questions, I absolutely agree with you. Thanks mate, you saved my buckets LOL
Glad I could help! It really comes down to application and what you’re doing. If you’re out for the day on a hike, ride, or something inconsequential, the a bladder is great but if you’re really out there and need positive control of your water, go with bottles.
I need a bladder because I ride a motorcycle and can't drink from a bottle with the helmet on. I bought a Ozark Trail bladder. I don't like how it makes the water taste. I think it is made of vinyl. What are expensive bladders made of?
A big additional downside with having a water bladder is that, when they need to be filled on the trail you have pretty limited options (that I can think of and have used) you can remove the bladder from your pack and scoop water (and use an in-line filter), filter water into it (using a squeeze or pump), and finally you can get a set up to pump water directly into the bladder with a pump filter. So in two cases you have to unpack your whole backpack and the other way is use a pump filter.
With the proliferation of very light, low cost, and fast squeeze or in-line filters it’s hard to imagine going back to a slow, heavy, complicated and expensive pump.
Agreed!
So true, glad you mention this.
👊🏼👊🏼
I use 3 litre bladder on all hikes in the Summer. You can get lost easily in Canada and taking estimate plus 0.5L is a dangerous idea. It takes 4 hours for water purification abs to work.
You actually made some really good points that I didn't even think of.bi've wanted a water bladder from a long time now. But this kind of makes me 2nd guess it now.
Glad it was helpful! It really depends on what you’re doing with it. For backpacking, I’d advise not to use them but for cycling or day hikes, it’s probably okay.
@EmoryByLand Well I do drunk urbexing so With the vodka energy drinks I don't think it would work so good lol
Good points
Thanks 👊🏼👊🏼
I recently discovered that cheap plastic gallon jugs like the ones they sell distilled water in (same as milk jugs) cause me gut disturbance and fairly severe, enough to make me stop using them. So naturally now I'm a bit worried about everything plastic. Is there a good backpacking option for water that avoids microplastics?
oh interesting. I'd probably just use water from the tap then and use non-plastic bottles for storage.
I used water bladders for years of dayhikes and day trips. My first ever overnight trip I stopped at the last water source before crossing over a ridge/pass. With a few dry miles ahead I filled the bladder till it wouldn't take any more water. About a half liter later I was empty. I pulled the bladder out, and it was full of air. Rookie mistake. But that sucked. I have not used a bladder for anything other than a day hike since.
Whoa…. That’s crazy! I think they’re good for hikes but only when you won’t be filling up. Thanks for sharing your story!
Even i know water bladder is hard to clean (esp. the hose), but I’m still considering to have one. I used to carry 1.5L of water bottle on my backpack and 600ml on the side pocket.. It’s not only make the distribution of my backpack’s weight becomes unbalanced but also after i have no more waters on my 600ml bottle i must refill it from my 1.5L which’s stored inside my backpack, and it’s not so convenient when you must refill it on a difficult 60-70 degree slope of terrain. I’m living on a tropical country which the weather mostly hot and humid, in addition not all mountains have a clean water resource. Often i walk dozens of kilometers and hike a mountain which doesn’t have any rivers nor springs at all.
I think you do what works best for you and the situation. There are no wrong answers.
I've never used one. The extra weight and high maintenance just isn't worth the risk of it failing and leaking in my backpack. I carry a bottle, something around a liter, hooked somewhere on my pack and if it's looking like water is going to be an issue I'll stop and fill up a filter bag that I can carry outside my pack.
For some people in some situations they're probably the best option, just not for me.
👊🏼👊🏼
using my 1st water bladder now while I'm learning to run longer distances before i ship off to the army. I'd say it's pretty decent, but your opinions are definitely from a backpackers perspective so i'd say its a losing battle to directly compare needs between running and hiking. One thing i will say is that in terms of space, i feel like the bladder takes up less- but part of that might because im using the hydration backpack that has a sleeve for the bladder as opposed to putting it wherever i can fit it in a more practical hikers pack. As for managing water, i normally just fill mine to 1.5L and dont have an issue with it whereas i would have an issue, if i needed more, with carrying more waterbottles. Overall good video and great points that i'll start keeping in mind
Thanks for the note! This is 100% focused on backpacking, so if you use it for running or anything else, that's a different ball game.
Good luck in your new Army career!
I also, gave up on the bladders years ago. Great video.
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 thanks!
I really only agree with the portability and space in the bag, maybe the weight factor. But I use for mostly cycling and it’s really nice to just pick up a hose instead of fumbling with a bottle and cage. I’ve always used camelback and never had one leak in like 15 years.
Yep! Cycling is much different. This video is specifically for backpacking.
I too hate hydration bladder systems for the reasons you mentioned. However, for longer water carries, I like having platypus style bottles to store the water in my pack purely because, they hold as much as I prepare for, and as I use them, they take next to no space or weight.
I use the same spare bladders. I’ve had them for years and never had an issue.
Thanks for the input!
So as a hunter, I can see the both sides, one being using a bladder is quieter, as plastic bottles crackle or pop, and the bladder don’t, but ease of mobility with water bottles… I’m not camping so 3L will probably carry me through the hunt and back to my truck, but in the event I need more water, I have a life straw that I can use if I really need water. But I just bought my first (decent..?) water bladder I was looking at ways to clean it and get the plastic taste out as I’m sure it’s gonna taste like plastic, and ran across your video. You made valid points, and if I was hiking, then probably have a different set up because I’m not worried about being quiet.
I see your point! I take photography so same issue there with noise. And more so as I will be handling my camera and then having to reach into my bag to pull out a bottle is just cumbersome. My bag came with hard plastic container and tastes funny after a while. Cleaning it is a major issue and I haven't found sound method and that funny plastic taste won't go and I think it's bad for my health.
I salvaged a plce rocket pouch to hold a 2l bladder and mount it inside my molle belt, extra cushioning lol.
Bought a brand new bladder from Kuiu that i tested at home before and it had a small leak. Kuiu replaced it and no issue, but decided to run the big nalgene bottles just to play it safe.
Wise choice!
I only use bladder for a day hike or walking around a fair or parks I use a 40 ounce water bottle with a hose it’s called a hard side hydration bottle with hose it works great I got the 40ounce bottle but you can get a smaller bottle
Hello ! Can you tell me what brand your backpack is (time code 0:39)?
That’s the Hyperlite Junction 40. I don’t recommend it
For military purposes it is favored as you don't have much real estate for a bottle or you just don't want to get it out your backpack. The swishing around is also less audible when in a backpack as opposed to it being outside somewhere, where it would usually be for accessibility. Apart from that I think it depends on your preference. If I am trying to take large quantity of water for myself and others (like kids or whomever), then a hydration pack or two is easier than 2 or 3 bottles.
Maybe a mix of both would be the answer if you’re sharing?
@@EmoryByLand Absolutely, and keeping in mind that the mission will dictate the gear and set up too. There is no one setup that does it all. Having the options is just tools to be used as needed.
I will say, the ability to refill the source bladder with the adapter they give you whilst keeping the bladder in its bag is optimal.
I prefer dual soft flasks for drinking on the go, and some Nalgene bottles in the pack if I need extra, Bladders can drizzle water on the camera I have attached to my shoulder strap.
Sounds like a solid system!
I agree 100%. I actually do use bladders, but only if the hike is 15+ miles and the the temperature is 90+. It’s a huge space waste and I hate lugging it around.
Nice. I think that makes sense!
I agree a million percent for the most part. I like water bladders for highly mobile efforts like day hikes or cycling or training, but for general backpacking use? I don't want one in my pack. I like hydration packs for cycling, that'll do. I only use water or water & MiO (which has no sugar) for easy clean-ups, only use treated bags (anti-microbial) and I generally keep them in the freezer once I've drained them.
The one thing they're awesome for is when making pit stops in convenient stores or gas stations where you can fill one up (with a wide mouth or zip top) with crushed ice & drink of your choice (i.e. Gatorade) right out of the machines. And I agree, "if" you're gonna use a bladder, it has to be a Source or CamelBak.
Thanks for the perspective and input!
Thank you for that insight… I am sitting here shaking my head because my 3.0L Platypus bag is yellowing and I am just tired of “cleaning it”. (Not that I’m lazy… it’s just a PITA). I always have a Sawyer… I’m going to run with the water bottles… I can’t sink another $50+ into another bladder.
Give the bottles a try and THEN decide if you think another bladder is worthwhile. I think you'll enjoy the simplicity of bottles.
Thanks for the video, really helpful! The volume to mass conversion put a smile on my face though. Americans, haha...
Glad to hear! 😁
I have a Solution for every point you mentioned except for "this things are not cheap" you are right there but...in my case if i want to drink water on the go when i am hikking, with water bottles i have to stop, get my backpack off to grab the bottle and drink, so, there are pros and cons when you use a water bladder, personally i Will keep using it but...from now i Will take an empty 500 ml water bottle with me (I could fill it with water too right, Why not?) 😊
Wow went here to see why not to use bladders and now im turning off on buying them completely for my offgrid water storage these point are good for all water bladders thank you
You’re welcome!
100% agree!
You didn't mention the heat pipe effect: the first cm3 of water are completely heated by the sun in the hose.... And the plastic taste, even in first brands, after a time they start to taste like shit. I think it's the best for biking and fire the beginning of a trip, and later use the bottles.
Great point
Totally agree!! I have bladders that I have never used because they are a pain to use, I switched to SMART WATER bottles years ago. The other day I found a gusher of a spring that was safe to use and a bladder would have been annoying to say the least...IDAHO.
Nice!
I was shopping for bladder attachments when I came across your video. Looks like I’m going to switch to bottles.
Let me know how it goes!
I don't have a water bladder but considering getting one for skiing because I've hurt my back in the past when falling with a bottle in my backpack.
That’s probably a great idea in that application
I live in Arizona so I have to carry more water then people in other areas for obvious reasons, so I find myself using a huge bladder and 2 water bottles. Some may say this is overkill but we dont have a lot of areas to collect water from in the desert.
I think that’s a solid approach and reason for using a bladder. There’s really no wrong way to do this stuff.
bladders have their place. but it'd depends what tool we need for the certain task at hand. a canteen may be a better option sometime, a smart water bottle maybe a better options at times. it depends
true!
Hydrapak - best of both worlds (storage bladder with mouth that fits katadyn be free) if you are away from water/ up high for a couple of days. and run a hydrapak 1 litre Flux soft collapsable, packablebottle. Again can run this stand alone with the Katadyn be free. Use the Flux to collect water and filter into the large bladder in minutes. Job done. High quality, light and super durable and large lid diameter on both provides easier filing and use when pouring. The nalgen bottles are heavy, big and noisy when not full
Nice! Thanks for sharing your setup!
Thanks nice video but these are ten ways it doesnt affect me lol, i find bottles hard to run with, extremely bulgy even if small. but bladder bags i think are more freeing, with all your points observed i guess i can just conclude that it all boils down to your purpose and personal preference. cool vid!
Great video thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching!
The advantage to hydration bladders is their lightweight and large carrying capacity, but the advantage of natural and societal access to water makes that obsolete most of the time
Agreed.
They are amazing for running or going to a festival or if you have a active job like in a warehouse where you don’t have anywhere to place a bottle and if you do you are never next to it. Also really good to get a airsoft “tactical” one as they have pockets built into the mini backpack that holds the bladder so now you can keep stuff inside it like keys and small stuff and in the summer time around the city you are all good
All true, but the application here is backpacking. Thanks for your input!
You should use a garbage disposal bag as a
backpack liner for this and many other reasons.
Pack liners are always a great idea.
I understand you don't like them but it seems you misunderstood them :) and I don't understand what you meant by something poking you when rummaging with a bladder? :S for pressure, physics' syphoning dictates one should hold the output lower for more pressure :)
Contents in a backpack can damage or put pressure on the bag which can result in a seal breaking or puncture. Mileage may vary from person to person. Sounds like you've had great experiences with bladders for now.
I'd rather use a water bladder than just a couple water bottles, especially now there's a lot of in line connections that you can use the filter said bladders in a lot of them are clear. There's a lot of great options out there my favorite is the force from hydrapak lot of people like Camelback but I'm not offended then. Another thing to add is the durability that some water bladders have if you're going to opt to pay for a cheaper one then don't complain when it breaks on you, I'm sure everyone knows of the saying bye wants cry once, that being said you should know very well I had if you have to buy a cheap version of something you know it's not going to work well enough versus said item that you purchased that was better even with a higher price.
The fact is that everyone has their own opinion course me personally I would not waste all that money on a bunch of water bottles and I'm only going to use a handful of times compared to a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack
Not sure I'm following the last part there, but that's okay. I'm just glad to hear you have a piece of gear you enjoy using! Gear is 100% personal so do what works, right?
My only thoughts on the ultralight stuff being dumb is I would agree with you that if you're not doing a trip that requires you to be ultralight, then yes, it's dumb...or silly let's say. HOWEVER, if you ARE trying to cover big miles and move quickly where you're doing more hiking than you are camping, then ultraight is NOT dumb.
It sounds like ultralight is dumb to you right now because you're camping more than you're hiking which is totally fine! It's a difference between being comfortable on your feet or in camp.
Great video. I was just starting to look into buying a water bladder for general outdoor use - but after watching your video, I'm sticking to water bottles. You had too many basic, excellent reasons to not use a bladder. Thanks for saving me frustration and money!
Thanks, I’m glad I could help! I think they’re fine for day hikes where gear is minimal and you’re not too concerned about filtering or anything like that, but for overnight trips when water is important it’s best to go with bottles in my opinion.
Happy trails!
IMO water bladder are only good for 2 scenarios:
1. Motorcycle or bicycle riding. Duh, since water bladder was first invented for cycling anyway. That's also why many cycling & off-road motorcycle backpacks will have water bladder divider.
2. Military. Sometimes when you setup modular gears all around your torso, removing your backpack becomes too troublesome. But you won't carry canteen on your battle belt too, since modern doctrine already ditched the canteen pouch. Not to mention the whole action of reaching for a bottle, unscrew it, drink it, screw the cap, putting it back, will take your attention away from your weapon. Thus modern infantry often incorporates water bladders.
I have a Camelbak Omega 3L since like 2010 (it was a gift) but I rarely use it for hiking/camping. I only hike with it when it's a day hike & I know I won't be refilling because its 3L capacity is larger than any of my bottles.
hiking in the outback, no water available for 2-3 days is pretty common, need to carry 10L+ of water...
thats a lot of bottles!
its more space efficient and easier to have 2 large 4L or 6L slabs of water mounted right up high in your pack so they sit between shoulder blades or just under the lid. Easy to manage
If you get MSR brand, they are 1000d cordura, dont leak, dont rupture and last forever
Great point! I actually didn't mention my method of carrying more water which looks like me adding extra collapsible bladders to my pack.
Thanks SO much for chiming in and adding your two cents!
@@EmoryByLand no problem! I agree with you though, bottles are better if you have the option
I actually like to use titanium wide mouth bottles that are like nalgenes. They are SUPER expensive but light weight, you can use them to cook in or as a mug and again they last forever. No good in the snow though, plastic nalgenes are best there I think (for a whole bunch of reasons)
As with everything in life just got to know the pros and cons haha
10 wow!
Bingo!
I have tried to use bladders several times and came across the same issues you mentioned here, all these reasons alone are enough for me to go bottle. 100% agreed.
But the biggest reason for me is, no matter which one, no matter how much money, they all taste like plastic. Even the slightest taste of plastic is a no for me.
Soft bladder plastics have plasticizers in them, it doesn't matter if they are BPA free or whatever, plastic isn't soft naturally without chemicals and I can taste them no matter what they advertise.
What’s your bottle of choice?
I love bladders. I drive a motorbike, just turn my head and take a sip. For cleaning my hands they are awesome. I actually use the cheap ones (20 USD all included), haven't had a leak.
Nice. I’m glad to hear it’s working out!
Agree with this analysis totally. Especially with the problems associated with hydration additives.
water bladders are best for motorcycles, bikes, piloting small aircraft, kayaking, .. etc... places where your arms, hands usage and/or space is limited. stopping to grab bottle out of backpack will slow you down if you have been hiking for a long time. also, i would like to add that lemon lime gatorade is magical... no other flavor or electro drink compares for long long hikes like 120 miles in 10 days for instance.
love that lemon lime! Thanks for chiming in!
Im thinking about using waterbladders for bikepacking in the winter
I think that makes sense if you need quick access and bottles don't work while riding. I'm not a cycling guru so I'll have to defer to the experts!
Not all bladders are created equal. IF you're serious about your hydration system or just want the best then get a "Source" bladder. They solve several of your problems.
1. They're built a lot more durable than a standard bladder. Less likely to leak, burst or puncture. Think of them as Military grade.
2. They have a QD refill attachment system that allows you to refill via the hose without removing the bladder from your pack. No mess, no fighting to get it back in.
3. They have a reinforced wide mouth zipper opening to make cleaning simple and easy.
Thanks for the input and suggesting a different water bladder brand. I looked them up and they look great, however they still have single points of failure where the hose connects to the bladder toward the bottom. Not saying it'll happen all the time, but those connections get weak over time and if that hose becomes unseated, it'll drain out your entire bladder. Bottles for me!
@EmoryByLand the Source quick connects have 1 way valves. You can remove the hose of a full bladder without it draining out. Same with swapping the bite valve. They're also a lot more durable than average.
To each thier own... My issue with bottles is the limited capacity. It's difficult to match the standard 3L capacity using bottles. And even if you could the weight is less centered.
I carry a source bladder along with a stainless.
Love them for MTB, not too sure about hiking yet... \m/
Sounds about right!
I got very sick from using a bladder because of unseen mold! Never again! Too hard to clean!
oh whoa!!! That's wild! I've never heard of that, but it makes sense. Thanks so much for sharing your experience!
I know me, and there's no way in hell I would adopt the water-bladder-cleaning lifestyle. Maintenance is the first thing I think about with a product lol.
Having said that I'm still maybe going to buy a Camelbak Rogue 2L for cardio cycling, take out the water bladder and throw in a JBL Charge 5 speaker for when I sometimes want some music when in areas where I won't disturb the peace lol. Then a small water bottle and some other small stuff.
It’s always good to know thy self! 😂
Had a Platypus bladder fail on me and I lost most of my water. Never trusted one again. Of note, have never had a bottle fail.
Not a matter of IF, but WHEN! I too have never had a bottle fail me.
Thanks for sharing!
Never had any of these issues in 10 years of backpacking/hiking/mountain biking and just cruising trails. To each their own though.
1:02 Ok this is just dumb. Just like you suggest having different size bottles, you could buy different size bladders if you cannot have the self control to only fill it part way. Beyond that, a bladder is nice in that a 3 liter bladder doesn't weigh much, and doesn't take up much space if it's not full. For hiking in the desert you can fill it according to how far you're travelling dry. With a bladder or two, it's much easier to fill that up all the way some days and not others.
I would also say, they only take up more space inside of your pack. But, being inside does get the weight closer to your COM and if you need to pack a lot of water, they actually take up less space (well, no, they take up about the same amount of space, but it's a more packable shape and slightly flexible. Putting bottles in your pack will result in more dead space). So, maybe bottles make good sense when you won't need any more than 2 liters, and hydration bladders (or some of each) makes good sense when you need more than that (more weight, so get it closer to COM and pack it in a little tighter, and I doubt your pack has room for more than a couple of liters of water bottles on the outside anyway).
All of the other points seem very valid. Especially the not knowing how much water is left is no good.
You seem like a genuine person but maybe don’t begin a comment with a negative connotation saying something someone says is “dumb.”
Thanks for watching
Well the Brit army issue Camelbaks fit under the pouches on the outside of the bergen so that is one awesome reason to use them 😆
well there ya go
@@EmoryByLand Thanks for the reply. The Bergen also has a canteen pouch so it really is up to the indivdual. I used this too until I learned that the straps and clips support the issue Camelbaks and with the price on surplus being rock bottom, for me, having 3 or 6L on the outside of the pack wins out but you have a lot of really good points there to mull over. Cheers.
Love/hate relationship for me. I did find decades ago using a small hose from a hardware store and just cutting a hole into the cap of a big plastic bottle shoved into side of pack. Once the taste stinks just replace at a way lower cost or bleach it.
Great points Emory!
Interesting! Thanks for sharing your experience!
You should have tried a traditional leather bladder.
Hard pass
First time using one wish me luck 😅 and it’s a cheap one from Amazon… oh boy what did I get myself into 😬
Just make sure it’s good and tight
Thank you for this video. I think the advice makes good sense for the majority of hikers. I like to sip water and I can't reach the water bottle while walking, so I had to try some compromises. A small bottle on the front of my pack is ok, especially those collapsible flasks with straws. A water bladder strapped to the side of my pack works ok, as I can put only enough water in until the next water source, and easily see how much is left. But not ideal, as it's a bit heavier. So perhaps the One Bottle Hydration system will be the best option. Or I'll have to find another pack, where I can reach the bottles.
You're welcome!
I mentioned this in my message to you a minute ago, but I say just go with what works for you the best. There's a million ways to do a thing and the only thing that matters is that you're getting the hydration you need throughout the day.
I hate them & overall solid reasons, but I must say I used them in military training & on deployments and never had a leak issue.
You must have been one of the lucky few! I too used them plenty in the military. Almost became part of the uniform
Did you know that 1L of water is the equivalent to 1Kg?
I did
I run so I get your points thou I'm trying them now. Since things won't ever be perfect un a given situation I'll add the real thing that bum me up here : they're 100% plastic. I used to run with a titanium bottle and although I need to pause ( that's why I'm trying them bladders rightt now) I think they're the best choice for a healthy lifestyle. Remember the average human ingest the equivalent of a credit card in plastic EVERY WEEK. Can't be good long term....
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It's one of those things that initially looks cool and because most outdoor enthusiasts are gear junkies they buy it even though a simple plastic bottle would do :) This is the case for many pieces of equipment.
Very true and I think outdoor stores are VERY confusing for people new to backpacking. Lots of options to choose from with no context for what they're used for.
@@EmoryByLand Part of it is psychological. People fear the unknown and they want to feel prepared. The companies promote the idea that only certain type of gear will do and I don't blame them. They're in it to make money and often there's genuine innovation. But learning to simplify and to re-evaluate can be also a very rewarding experience. To be able to do more with less. Instead of gear maybe concentrate more on the mental and fitness aspect etc. Anyway, I'm getting too philosophical :) Thanks for sharing your experiences.
I've never liked the taste of the water in any of my bladders. I to have switched to bottles.
I don't know if I've ever had that issue. Maybe early on with a bladder.
Stay tuned...I've updated my water system and am trying something new out....
Thanks for your info, I almost buy it 😂
haha! You're welcome!
100% agree
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I will always choose a bottle over a bladder. Just my preference
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Co z tego że wiesz ile ci zostało wody w butelce skoro nie wiesz kiedy następnym razem będziesz miał okazję ją znowu napełnić...? Butle zabierają miejsce a nie oferują wiekszej pojemności i nie są elastyczne. Same wady. Długo by wymieniać...
Everything takes up space, it’s just a matter of where that space is being taken up. If you can’t see your water, you don’t know how much you have to manage
I’ve always had my bladder in a protective cover to reduce puncture. But I’m usually in a tree saddle so it makes sense for me when I’m waiting for hours for a deer to come by
That makes sense. I’d go that route too in a tree. Less movement and risk of dropping
Literally gave up my bladder for ALL these reasons.
ha!
Hello from France ! I use water bottles.
Bonjour!
Hydrapak is the best ones. No leaks
Ah yes, a good brand
im with you! I cant stand the bladders other then the fact you can drink without sopping or pausing the benefits don't outweigh the drawbacks. Biggest thing for me is the dam taste of plastic
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