How Do You Store Water While Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

One of the most important things to consider when backpacking is how you will store water. Water is essential for hydration, cooking, cleaning and even fire-building, so it’s important to make sure you have a reliable way to store water while you’re out on the trail.

The most common way to store water when backpacking is with a hydration bladder or reservoir. A hydration bladder or reservoir is a type of flexible container that can hold between 1 and 3 liters of liquid, and it usually comes with hose and bite valve for easy drinking.

The bladders come in different shapes and sizes and can be stored in a backpack side pocket or directly in the main compartment of your pack. They are lightweight and easy to use, making them great for long hikes.

Another option for storing water while backpacking is with plastic bottles. Plastic bottles come in many shapes and sizes, ranging from small handheld bottles to large jugs that can hold up to 5 gallons of liquid. They are also lightweight and easy to carry around, although they can take up more space than a hydration bladder/reservoir due to their shape.

For those looking for an even lighter option, collapsible water containers are also available. These containers are usually made from flexible silicone or plastic material and can be rolled up or folded down when not in use. They come in different sizes ranging from 500 ml up to 5 liters, making them great for shorter hikes where weight is an issue.

Conclusion:
When it comes to storing water while backpacking, there are several options available depending on your needs. Hydration bladders/reservoirs are lightweight and easy to use while plastic bottles offer more capacity but take up more space. Collapsible water containers provide the lightest weight option but have the lowest capacity.