Inexpensive Hydration Pack

[Tuckervill]

It didn't appear to me that the one from Wal-mart had a sternum strap. I don't think I'd want it without that. It goes across your chest and keeeps the straps from slipping off your shoulders. Let's just say there's a lot of outward force on any shoulder straps for me!

However, if I bought it and it became a problem, I could rig something up with a bungee or something.

I would also question if the bladder would have a taste or not. Although, I think I have a collapsible water jug from Wal-Mart that is made out of the same stuff (for camping) and I don't recall a taste. If the bladder really smelled strongly, I'd skip it, because I'd taste it for sure.

You can actually get a real Camelbak from Bass Pro for just $10 more.

Karen

[Kano]

I don't know how far you're going Pooks -- a couple of years ago, I was given two of them for Christmas. One is 50oz, the other is 70oz. I like the 70 oz better for biking -- it's hotter, and the farther we go, the more water I want. I do like the 50 oz for skiing!

That chest strap that's been mentioned is nice to have too!

Karen in Boise

[Geonz]

I got my Camelbak from ebay for $25 counting shipping. (However, it was Hi-Viz - the Dork factor might have kept the bidding low. )

[pooks]

I'm thinking I'll just go to REI or the other place and get one I can try on (and smell) first. Or rather, have a variety to choose from. It seemed like Walmart would be so close and it would be easy to run in and pick one up, but actually Walmart isn't in a direction I usually drive in so it's out of the way, even if it's closer. Bah. Go where I know I can find something instead of fighting the crowds at W-mart. (Which I don't like, anyway.)

[withm]

50 ounces is too small. Esp in Texas where it's hot. Go for the 70 oz size.