Even though the flip tops prevail over screw-top options for cleaning, each performs a little differently. Heck, we also think it’s the best way to stay hydrated while driving, writing, reading, and watching TV: In most cases, it’s simply easier to drink from a tube than a water bottle. The goods are your responsibility until they reach our warehouse, so make sure they’re packaged properly and obtain proof of postage. In some cases, we’ve been able to repair these leaks with waterproof Flex Tape; at other times, we’ve taken advantage of companies’ generous warranty programs. Since water weighs approximately two lbs per liter, the additional weight on the bladder itself can add up.

After our initial testing, we keep using each option, updating our findings and comparisons over the years. You also get a drink tube that’s 1/16-inch wider than HydraPak’s designs, which translates to a noticeably high flow rate (similar to the Crux above). The Got Your Bak™ Lifetime Guarantee covers all reservoirs, backpacks, bottles and accessories from manufacturing defects* in materials and workmanship for the lifetime** of the product. But if you’re really looking to pinch pennies or don’t mind the possibility of a leak, the Cenote gets our vote as the best combination of affordability and quality. Here, Amber, our main tester tries out some lightweight options while running on the other side of the world.We wish the bite valve included a locking mechanism, as it tended to leak a little as it bounced around on our adventures. The DromLite Bag is one of our favorite setups to bring backpacking with a group, thanks to its utility both on the trail and at camp. Minor shortcomings aside, this hydration bladder offers the best insulative properties of any model we tested thus far and is our recommendation for those who are in super cold places or like to keep their water cold in the heat. Quick-disconnect fittings (also known as quick-release or Plug-N-Play valves) are fairly standard in 2024, but we especially love that the Hydraulics’ is positioned at the top of the bladder.

The DromLite Bag is a simple yet tough reservoir with a hang loop on one end and a 3-in-1 twist cap on the other.

One of our favorite features on today’s hydration bladders is the quick-disconnect fitting, which allows you to detach the reservoir from the hose.