Gear Review: Hydration Packs
Company: CamelBak
Product: Arete 22 Hydration pack
Well summer is here and with that comes the endless attempts to stay hydrated. And if you’re anything like me, then you never seem to bring enough water along for the excursion. As many as you know I was diagnosed with epilepsy about two years ago, specifically febrile seizures. Meaning if my body temperature was to rise through physical activity or just simply heat, then my body will seize to reset itself. Sucks living in Texas but I make do. I bought this pack a couple months ago specifically to ensure I carried enough water around with me to cover my entire activity. And it hasn’t let me down so far!!
The main compartment of the bag still has plenty of room for hiking or activity essentials as well as snacks. Which is always a plus because most Hydration packs only have room for the water supply.
Even cooler, this little back is capable to fit inside larger packs and serve as an insulated pack for food/ clothing.
Recommendation: All Levels/Hiking
Specs: Denier Nylon, Frameless, 14.1 Ounces,
MSRP: $80.00
I’m really happy to read about this one and that it helps you hike safely. ❤
I have loved Camelbak hydration packs for decades. I have an old Blowfish that is my go-to pack for everything, not just a hike; if I must have a purse, that's it. For a long time, my two-night "day" pack was a larger Camelbak. It was great. Last year I bought a new pack, a smaller one, for the shorter hikes I do now. I'm one of those thirsty, red-faced, easily heated Nordic type people and I need water.
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Using a Camelbak as a purse is brilliant, I am adopting this immediately, thanks for the inspiration Martha (or more like giving me a good idea to steal!).
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Do you think this would be great for running? I completed a half marathon a couple of weeks ago and I was so parched. Even though I had been hydrating myself days before (and race day), I was still thirsty. Since I hadn’t trained with a water pack or the water bottles attached to your hand or belt, I didn’t want to try anything new on race day. So I guess I say all of that to ask if you think it would be comfortable to run in? Thanks!
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Hi Britt, I don’t think this pack is suitable for long distance running, the manufacture recommendations are for hiking, and that is probably what I would limit this pack to as well. The Camelbak M.U.L.E has been a reliable pack for runners, but I prefer a Hydration Vest for long distances. Ultimate Direction carries a diverse line of vests and hydration solutions for most running needs, I haven’t tried this vest yet, but it seems like a great design for competitive runners. https://ultimatedirection.com/marathon-vest/ If you find something that works for you, please let us know what is, and what you think. Happy Trails!
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Thanks!
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Hey Britt, I use Osprey packs for trail running. A little different than marathoning, but I’ve been exceptionally happy with my pack, even on all day hikes. Might be worth looking into. Good luck finding the perfect pack! 🙂
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Thank you, I will look into that. As I start to get more serious about competing in more races, I’ll have to buy better equipment and clothes and this helps. Thanks again.
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Love the blog and seriously good content. Keep up the good work and look after your fellow bloggers.
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Ash…thanks for the kind words! And you hit the nail on the head…we’re all in this together!
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I appreciate it mate. 😊
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Thank you for your input! I’ve been looking at these type of backpacks and don’t have anything to go of. I do carry at least 2 environmental books and a Nikon in my backpack, do you think there is enough room for those in there with the water pack?
Thanks so much 🙂
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Yes, I think there would be, this pack is a little bigger than the typical Camelbak. If you have the chance to try it on first that would be ideal, but my thought is that there would be plenty of room. I love that you carry books with you on the trail, to me that is the type of weight worth carrying!
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