CamelBak Waist Pack or Full Backpack?

[Dianyla]

I use a Camelbak Rogue, which is a backpack style but is pretty minimal. It does have room to add some small items (like an energy bar or two) in addition to the reservoir - but it's not what I would call a full backpack. It's relatively narrow. And yes, it's hotter wearing it than not, but on hot days I want the extra liquid.

I've got a Camelbak Mule which is long and slim and expands nicely - it's a great commuting backpack. It's just big enough to hold my clothes and the bikelock. On long rides I use it to carry extra inner tubes, extra layer, food, sunscreen, cellphone/wallet, etc. Yeah, it's hot, but... still worth it to me to be able to carry 100 oz of water and all my other shtuff. Then again, I don't live in a truly hot/desert environment.

BTW, if you make sure you get a pack with a waist strap you should make sure that more of the weight goes onto the waist strap and keep the shoulder straps loose.

I usually carry water in my Camelbak and Gatorade in my water bottles.

Ditto that, I always keep cytomax/gatorade in bottles. Never put anything sugary into the camelback reservoir - that's a moldy disaster waiting to happen!

[susan.wells]

I also have the Camelbak Rogue. I have used it the last two years. Unlike others though I do carry whatever sports drink I happen to be consuming. I use the Camelbak cleasing tablets to clean it after every ride. I have yet to master using bottles effectively. I just ordered the Camelbak Dream to try.

Susan