Heavy outdoor activities increase fluid loss through sweat and necessitate an enhanced hydration strategy to properly regulate body temperature, supply vital nutrients to muscles and flush waste efficiently from the system.

Avoid dehydration while outdoors by sipping on water, low sugar sports drinks or electrolyte beverages that contain electrolytes. Be wary of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and soda that could have diuretic effects; such beverages could further dehydrate you.

Hydration Reservoirs

Hydration bladders are at the core of any backpack’s hydration capacity, constructed of durable BPA-free plastics to withstand years of use and abuse. There are two primary designs: those featuring a rigid backer such as our top-rated Osprey Hydraulic offerings or built-in baffles such as those offered by Camelbak; reservoirs with slider openings seal via flap on top, while twist-cap closures typically appear on front (although our Platypus Hoser review has one on side).

The best reservoirs feature wide mouth openings that run the width of their bladders for easy filling and cleaning under any faucet, plus quick-disconnect tubing that runs through a tube portal for ease of refilling your pack while leaving it on. Some models even include insulated walls to keep water cool while some include antimicrobial treatments that protect against the growth of bacteria.

Water Bottles

Avoid purchasing expensive, often chemical-laden bottled water by investing in an eco-friendly reusable bottle made of copolyester (sometimes known as Tritan), HDPE or polypropylene material which offers rigidity while remaining dishwasher safe – and free from BPA. Such plastics also ensure tasteless liquid remains contained inside.

Glass bottles are another popular option, as they’re light yet don’t absorb taste or odours – perfect for short hikes and cycling trips, though be mindful of any BPA-containing linings or coatings used inside them.

Bottled water companies rely heavily on fuel-intensive transportation of their product from its source to distribution centers and grocery stores, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. As an alternative, try switching to tap water instead, which comes directly into your home via pipes rather than plastic bottles and produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions – not to mention being much cheaper! Look for bottles labeled as coming from municipal systems for additional verification.

Packs & Vests

Hydration packs and vests are versatile outdoor gear used for hiking, biking, camping, running and other outdoor activities. Typical designs contain one to three liters of liquid in their reservoir, along with a tube connecting directly to a bite valve for hands-free drinking.

Selecting an appropriate pack or vest depends on your activity level and requirements. For shorter hikes and bike rides, lightweight packs with smaller water bladders may work best, while for backpacking excursions you should look for larger storage capacities for gear like sleeping bags and camping tools, in addition to having comfortable hip belt and shoulder straps.

Some hydration packs feature quick-release buttons, enabling users to easily disconnect the hose from the bladder without undoing any routing of its route. These features make cleaning and refilling your pack simpler while helping prevent mold and bacteria buildup between uses. TSL Outdoor offers durable reservoirs made with BPA-free materials for easier maintenance and cleaning.