I'm looking....and looking....and looking for a day pack to take to CO this fall. I don't need anything too big, as we'll be returning to base camp, each night. I've found a few I like....but VERY few of the ones I like have hydration bladders. I'm figuring I'll need 64+0z./day.
Are the makers of these packs missing the boat? Or, are hydration bladders (or the capability to accomodate them) over-rated? I can't believe the latter is true.
Actually, there are other ways to carry water then the hydration bladders. I have two 1.5 liter bottles that fit in my pockets on the Bison Gear pack. I also carry a lite weight filter so we are good too go.
Mike
wingnut:
Which pack...and what bottles? To be honest, that's the pack I think I want. But, why none of them are bladder-ready, kinda baffles me.
Thanks for your help.
The pack is the "lost river" and the bottles are some I picked up at REI. Wide mouth, heavy plastic. I've had them for 20 yrs.
http://www.rei.com/product/776181
Mike
Eberlestock and Badlands both have designed in spots for carrying your hydration bladders and have different sizes of bladders available. For mountain hunting my personal favorites are the Eberlestock packs. You can check some of them out on my website, and there are other models available if you don't see exactly what you are looking for.
I really like the convenience of a hydration bladder over a water bottle. With a bladder the hose is always handy, and I drink from it frequently. Also, a bladder doesn't slosh around and make noise. With a water bottle in many packs it is necessary to take the pack off in order to take a drink, and I think that can lead to not drinking enough.
Proper hydration is very important, especially so in tough mountain country. I tend to go through a lot of water when I am moving and don't want to have to drop my pack to get at it. If you prefer the bottles, at least make sure the pack has a pocket on the belt so that it is readily available.
Packs are like bows, no one will do it all. When planning my Australia trip last fall I settled on a Camelback as they are designed for hydration. Check out their website as they have so many packs that no retailer could carry them all.
Good advice Joe! I couldn't agree more, the inconvenience of having to take off a pack to drink will lead to not drinking enough. Easy access is the key!
Same reason I use a pack with a pocket on the waistbelt for my camera, if you have take your pack off to take a picture, you'll miss a lot of "photo opps"...
What Joe said, there are plenty of packs out there that accomodate bladders. I use the Badlands Diablo.
(http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b229/kadbow/IMG_0672.jpg)
QuoteSame reason I use a pack with a pocket on the waistbelt for my camera, if you have take your pack off to take a picture, you'll miss a lot of "photo opps"...
That's a GREAT point, Guru...and thanks. I plan on taking my "bigger" camera with me to CO (Canon Powershot - Pro)....and I've already invested in an 8G card. I plan to shoot a LOT of photos. Having it handy is a HUGE point to consider (for me). I'd like to know what you're using, if you don't mind.
Thanks.
jeff
I'll second the Badlands Diablo - lot's of room - cool - and a place for everything.
Matt
Jeff, Eberlestock has what they call a MultiPak that is designed to strap on to the waist belt of the pack. It is the perfect size for my full size Canon with lens and keeps the big camera handy at all times without having to remove my pack.
Curt's point is a good one - I want easy access to both water and my camera.
I would suggest you look into folks who offer packs to the military or law enforcement - they all have hydration systems. Check Blackhawk, Diamondback Tactical etc.. there are tons of them out there. As far as I know most all Badlands packs are hydration ready - you got to look a little harder. H
My Sitka Ascent pack has a slot for my insulated 2L Platypus (which is really big with the insulator around it) and it has a passthrough to get the tube to shoulder level on the pack shoulder strap. Chase uses a 2L cambelback insert in the top pocket of his Bison Gear First Trip Explorer and runs the tub up/over and attaches to the strap. My Bison Gear Lemhi also has a slot big enough to accomodate the Platy.
After using water bladders, especially the Platypus models, it's a good investment in my opinion...if only for the very point Curt made.
Thanks for starting this thread Jeff, I'm taking notes!
I've owned and used several models of Badlands packs and they're good packs, but I really like the Eberlestock X2 for putting on miles in the mountains. It comes with a 3L hydration bladder, has a vented back for those of us (me) that sweat like crazy, and you can put a elk quarter in it on your first trip out. And the lifetime warranty doesn't hurt either.
Levi, I agree with you on the X2 being a great pack in the mountains. But just so nobody is confused, it does have places for two hydration bladders, but they are not included in the price but rather need to be ordered seperately.
Both the Eberlestock and Badlands packs have a lifetime warranty, (I'm sure some others probably do as well) and they really do stand behind it.
Without seeming over dramatic, I want to emphasize the ability to pack a quarter on your first trip out of the woods. This may not be a big deal if you're using an outfitter that'll pack your game from the kill site, but if you're going it alone or with a DIY group this is key. After rereading your post I realize that you weren't necessarily soliciting advice, but it was clear that you hadn't yet made a purchase. You'll be doing yourself a disservice if you have to trek back to camp to get a frame for packing meat - unless you're lucky and get something on the ground within a mile from your camp :thumbsup:
If you're not a sweat-hog like me than the Badlands 2200 is also a good midsized pack that carries a quarter well. I really liked the hypervent as a daypack, but found out the hardway that it is NOT well suited for heavy loads. I strapped a hind quarter to a hypervent and slung antlers over the top for a first trip out and the load shifted quickly as I was manuvering through blowdowns. That weight shift sent me a$$ over tea kettle down a very nasty pitch with the elk getting his revenge the whole way!
Either way - good luck to you in finding a pack and better luck to you in Colorado!
I have nothing against hydration systems, but I use a large wine bota as a water bottle in my daypack. I don't find it a bother to take off my pack to get a drink. In fact, I usually take a break to sit, snack, make notes, look around, etc. every couple of hours while hunting in the mountains. I slip off my pack when I take a break. That's when I take a drink as well.
Great point bowfiend! If you kill it deep in the stuff - you need to be able to pack it out. The Badlands 2800 is also a good pack. If you are feeling flush, check our Kifaru's stuff. H
I like the hydration bladders also.I also agree about the camera pocket.I bought a couple seperate pockets by Gregory that have velcro straps and you can attach them to either the shoulder strap or waist belt.
I am partial to the fleece or wool packs because they are quieter and most don't have a bladder pocket,unfortunatelt.
How quiet are the Sitka packs?
What happens with these pacs when it freezin cold out? You have all this cold water strapped on your back?
I use a portale camelback blatter, and can put it in any pack and clip it over my right shoulder for a quick quench.
I DO NOT like water bottles....I CANNOT stand sloshing water while I'm walking let alone stalking.
I have used bladders before, but I quit. I now carry 2 plastic water bottles that I can reach without taking the pack off. Access is important as noted. Many packs in many size have these pockets.
I buy a case of of bottled water before a long trip and always carry two bottles with me. One is just water, the other I mix with propel or gateraid packets. I love water, but I can get tired of just water after several days on a long trip. Yes, you can mix the flavored stuff in the bladder, but then you are stuck with that flavor - even after you drink it.
If I need the space, I crush the bottle after use and replace it with the next one from the case. I also refill the bottles until they are shot and have never used up the case even in a two week hunt.
I also hate to clean bladders. The have a taste to them even if you do a good job. The also leak at the worst time. Yes they do. :-)
I have never had the problem with noise while walking that Terry mentioned. Though I could be deaf, walk too slow, or Terry walks too fast :-)
Another vote for the Badlands Diablo. For day hunting it is perfect and it will work for a single overnighter.
Another vote for the Badlands Diablo. For day hunting it is perfect and it will work for a single overnighter.
I keep an "aftermarket" hydration bladder in the main area of my Lost River pack and run the tube out the top to my left shoulder where it is attached to the pack strap. It is right there when needed.
I can't recall if there is an small apperture in the pack (I THINK there is) to allow the tube out, or if I just arrange the zipper so that it leaves a small gap.
It works fine that way. You can probably carry two gallons that way is you wish to.
A bladder pack also collapses as you drink, making a bit less noise as you move. I like that better than bottles, although I also use them at times.
ChuckC
I have a Badlands SuperDay pack and a 100oz bladder made by Badlands also. The bladder leaked from the seal at the tube connextion and soaked me on a cold snowy November day this year so I took the bladder out of one of my CamelBaks and used it instead.
The bladder pouch on the X2 is on the side, as to not draw heat from your body when it's cold. The tubes on the bladders from Eberlestock are insulated in an attempt to prevent them from freezing, but they're gonna freeze if it gets too cold. I've not yet had problems with the tubes freezing during archery elk season. Late season whitetails is another story...
I have a water bottle that has a built in filter system. You fill it up as needed and drink through the bite tube in the lid. Pour out the rest and you are not carrying any weight. I use it mostly for fishing and wouldn't be any good if youre not around a water source. I forget the name but I bought it at REI.
Every pack is hydration compatible if ya make it so!
I never use the cheap thin bladders that come with most packs. I have killed more camelbacks than I can count. I use a MSR Dromedary lite. Dang near indestructible.
I also extend the hoses in many cases.
I also agree that water that isn't easy to access is water you won't drink when you need to. The "high country hangover" is bad enough without dehydration added to it.
Guys...I appreciate the responses. I've looked into the Badlands Diablo...and it looks like it has everything I need/want. I've found a site that offers the pack; hydration bladder (105oz); "S" clip and includes shipping, for $149.00.
I've also inquired with one of the board sponsors that carries them.
Thanks, again.
jeff
Here's what I use: http://www.cascadedesigns.com/platypus/hands-free-hydration/hoser/product
Fits all my large and small packs. Much tougher than the camelback bladder I used to use.
I'll be purchasing from Mr. Whip (Prarie Traditions), today.
Again....I thank you all for your help (and PM's). Much appreciated!
I'm not sure what blatters are not easily accessable....Mine has a long tube that runs out of my back, and I can clip it over my right shoulder....nothing easier for a refresh that I've found. I can sip without letting go of my hand to unscrew a lid. Just take my right hand and flip it up to my mouth without even taking my eyes of the horizon.
Ask Joe Coots about his plastic water bottle and bottle rocket antelope!!! :eek:
rei (http://www.rei.com/search?query=water+filters&button.x=18&button.y=5)
There are several different ways to deal with hydration.
One is the camel back type systems; another is containers and water purity 'pills'- chemicals to take care of the water - but not for taste!
Another way is to have a filtration system. I have used filter straws; where an aquarium type filter is on a plastic straw. You can carry those in a pocket and they are there for an emergency.
There are also kind of elaborate filtering systems- but they do have an advantage- as they weigh very little; but can provide filtered water for an entire trip.
I like to drink water; but sucking it out of a rubber tube; or the filter straw may keep me hydrated; but it never seems to quench my thirst.
I like filters that allow you to fill a plastic container- or a collapsible container that won't slosh.
That way I can glug the water down and feel like I have quenched my thirst.
If you have a non filter system and need water- best to have a back up of some kind.
I have found only three problems with hydration bladders
1. As has been alluded to already, in really cold weather the water will freeze in the tube. You can mitigate this somewhat by blowing the water that remains in the tube after you take a drink back into the main bladder. This helps but, not for very long.
2. In really hot weather the water in the tube can get very, very warm and unpleasant to taste. Again you can mitigate this problem somewhat with the same technique outlined above.
3. The fact that getting a drink is so easy results in your drinking more. This is good. However, this also means that you run out of water a lot faster. This means that you have to plan on carrying more water than you normally would have and that water can prove very heavy.
In general, I like bladders though, I still keep a nalgene bottle nestled in a metal cup in my pack as a supplement.
Yep, I lost a gimmie shot on an antelope a couple year's ago at Vance's place. I had a plastic water bottle in the cargo pocket of my pants, I was kneeling hunkered low, when I raised a bit to draw, the bottle "crinkled" the slightest bit....goat evaporation. Never again, bladders for me now, specifically the platypus since I found those.
Lucznik:
1) & 2) The Platypus insulated system includes a very thick heavily insulated tube and pouch that really helps minimize both of these problems. Also, on a regular uninsulated tube, a short puff on the valve will push the water back down the tube and then a bit of extra suction as you drink draws it back up.
3)Yep, no real way around that one.
Jeff, What pack do you choose from Joe?
I'd found a deal on a Diablo (Badlands) on the net. I contacted Joe (gave him the details) and he unbelievably said he'd match it. That's really cool of him.
Here's the "rest of the story", too. He ordered another one (for stock)...to see if the accessory pouch would fit it (looking for somewhere to put my big(ger) camera). That's top-notch CS, huh?
The Diablo has a 105oz bladder. Now......if someone would tell me I could use the Propel packets to mix with my water....I'd be REALLY excited....lol. I'm only assuming that would be a cleaning nightmare (please someone tell me I'm wrong).
Badlands "Diablo" gets my vote. I actually have 2 different size bladders and change them around depending on the time of year and distance back to camp or truck. [ Sept. chasing Mulies more water.. Nov. and Dec. elk not as much ] :wavey:
It's been a long time since I looked at packs, so I'm surprised to hear that finding one that accepts hydration baldders is dificult. I've only bought two packs -- a High Sierra and a large Guide Series from Gander Mountain -- and both of them accept hydration bladders. I don't think either pack cost me more than $50.
Jason:
To be pointed.....I was originally interested in the Bison Gear line. Yes. I could have inserted a hydration bladder in there, somewhere. But, it doesn't seem "ideal"....nor do they make mention of it being "compatible". They also don't offer a hydration pack for their line.
That's the skinny.
If I'm off base....someone will surely (and should) set me straight. I'll humbly recant.
Ah...I see. That makes sense. Both of the packs I mentioned have compartments for hydration bladders, as well as openings and clips for the drinking tubes. I guess I just kind of took for granted that this was standard on packs, but it's not.
While the Bison Gear packs don't have a specific pocket for a bladder, a bladder quite nicely nestles at the bottom of the pack. I use a 3 litre Platypus with the tube running over my right shoulder and it's never leaked or caused an issue. The only problem I've had is with the mouth piece getting snagged on the string while stumping and flying off into the brush, which is actually a problem with me not tucking it away and not a problem with the product. During early season I can easily consume all 3 litres so I carry a 1 litre soda bottle and Aqua Mira water treatment for treating and refilling on the go. If you want to carry both water and a sports drink, use 2 smaller bladders.
The Badlands have a good reputation as well, I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Good luck in Colorado, it should be a great trip no matter what pack you have on your back!
I use Badlands packs different sizes depending on the hunt. The bladders work great but when it's really cold the water will freeze in the tube. When it's that cold I carry bottled water and put it in my pack where it has a bit of insulation.