If you’re looking for a hydration pack to keep your kids hydrated on outings, you’ve probably already discovered that the options are limited.
That’s why we made it our mission to find options that are comfortable, durable, easy to clean, and have a large water capacity.
After spending many hours comparing selections designed specifically for kids — and some for adults — and evaluating their performance in action, we’ve devised a list of seven terrific options.
Read our unbiased, detailed reviews of the best hydration packs for kids to keep your young explorers hydrated while they’re out on adventures.
- Keeps water cool
- Comfortable materials
- Outstanding reservoir included
- The Cruz reservoir
- Full-featured pack, kid-friendly size
- Built-in reflectors and whistle
- Refilling made easy
- Excellent material
- Included hydration pack
- High-flow bite-valve
- Multiple storage
- Light as feather
- Lightweight
- Comfy fabric
- Easy refills
- An emphasis on sanitation
- Food grade reservoir
- Great fabric
- Extra storage compartments
- Reflectors and whistle
- Excellent reservoir valve
The Best Kids Hydration Packs of 2024
Here are 7 great hydration packs to consider.
Kuyou 2L Hydration Pack
Best Hydration Pack Overall
This hydration pack from Kuyou is our top-rated pack — and for good reason. It’s stylish and user-friendly, capable of keeping your child refreshed for hours.
With insulated pockets and premium materials, this pack is excellent for long trips on foot or bike. There’s ample room for small essentials like a shirt or snacks. The pack is lightweight and includes a large FDA-approved reservoir.
However, it’s not suitable for small children. The straps are easy to adjust, but we recommend this pack for kids ages 9 and up.
What We Like
Keeps Water Cool
The water inside the hydration pack will inevitably become too warm on a hot day. Kuyou beats this by including insulation. The reservoir sits in a separate pocket where you can add ice cubes if needed without damaging the backpack.
Thanks to the insulated reservoir, Kuyou claims the pack can keep your water cold for up to four hours. That’s plenty of time for a hike with kids.
Comfortable Materials
The Kuyou hydration pack is made of waterproof polyester fiber fabric. It’s incredibly durable and wear-resistant, ideal as a backpack for kids.
The waterproof exterior allows your child to hike through any weather without worrying about spoiling the bag’s contents. There is air mesh at the back and on the shoulder straps, providing some ventilation.
Outstanding Reservoir Included
Included with the hydration pack is a 70.54-ounce (2-liter) reservoir. It’s constructed of high-quality BPA-free TPU material, ensuring odorless, taste-free water, and it’s FDA-approved.
It has a large top opening, making it easy to clean or add ice cubes if needed. Additionally, there’s a 135-degree rotatable mouthpiece and an easy-to-use shut-off valve to adjust the flow.
What We Don't Like
Valve Is Tricky to Figure out
A few users had some issues with the valve, saying it was difficult to figure out how to use it. There are instructions included, but they are vague and not easy to follow. It may take some trial and error on your child’s part to get the hang of it.
Product Specs
| Color | Teal |
| Material | Nylon and mesh |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | N/A |
Our Ratings
User Experience
CamelBak Kid's Scout Hydration Pack
Best Reservoir
The Scout hydration pack from CamelBak has much to offer outdoorsy children, and it’s a favorite brand among parents. With an easy-to-use reservoir, the backpack is suitable for even the smallest trailblazer. It features an innovative design, making sips quick and effortless.
CamelBak ensures your little one remains visible and heard while out and about. The Scout comes in a child-friendly size that won’t feel bulky to carry. There’s also ample room for all their gear.
With three fun designs to choose from, the Scout is suitable for boys or girls.
What We Like
The Cruz Reservoir
The Cruz reservoir has received rave reviews from parents and children. It’s designed to allow for stronger water flow, delivering 20% more fluid than a conventional reservoir with each sip.
Children also love it because of how easy it is to use. Instead of a bite valve, it has an on/off controller, which also prevents bite damage. The leak-proof valve is ergonomically designed and effortless to refill.
Full-Featured Pack, Kid-Friendly Size
CamelBak ensured the Scout was child-friendly in terms of proportions. It’s suitable for children with long or short torsos and is comfortable to wear.
You can quickly adjust the straps to suit your growing child. There’s a chest strap to ensure the pack stays level on the back without bouncing.
Built-In Reflectors and Whistle
If you’re ever planning on walking when daylight is low or after dark, the bag must include reflectors. Reflectors don’t provide light, but if you get separated, the backpack will be visible if light touches it, helping you spot your child.
There’s also a safety whistle in case your little one gets lost. You can locate them in no time, giving you some peace of mind when out on the trail.
Ample Room
The reservoir sits in a separate pocket at the back of the pack, so there’s ample room for other gear. Your little hiker or biker can pack snacks, extra clothes, notebooks, and pencils without having to ask you for help.
There are mesh pockets on each side for small extras like an additional water bottle or juice box.
What We Don't Like
Not Enough Insulation
Some parents pointed out the water quickly became hot on warm days, even with ice cubes. There’s not much insulation, and the material used for the reservoir doesn’t keep water cool for long.
Product Specs
| Color | Maui blue print, crimson red and blue, or purple sapphire and azalea |
| Material | Padded mesh |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | 11 ounces |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Osprey HydraJet 1.5L Kid's Hydration Backpack
Most Pockets
Whether your child is into hiking or enjoys long biking trips, the HydraJet hydration pack from Osprey is terrific.
It comes in an eye-catching teal or red color with bright yellow edges, making the wearer visible on the road.
However, the main reason we chose this pack is its emphasis on storage space. Osprey has your kid’s back in this department.
The pack includes one of Osprey’s best reservoirs, and refilling it is a breeze. Parents rave about how comfortable their children are in it and how easy it is to use.
What We Like
Plenty of Room
There’s room for all your child’s gear. Thanks to the external reservoir sleeve, the hydration pack works as a standard backpack. Behind the sleeve sits the main pocket, where there’s room for almost anything.
Inside the main pocket is an additional mesh compartment for small essentials your child needs handy. To the sides are stretchy pockets for extra water bottles, a toy, or snacks. Then on the shoulder strap sits the last pocket, designed to hold a phone.
Refilling Made Easy
With any kid, you always want something quick and easy. Osprey kept that in mind when designing this hydration pack. The bladder is a breeze to change, refill, or empty if needed.
It sits in an external reservoir sleeve, allowing for quick access, regardless of how full the pack is. Older kids can easily do this themselves.
Excellent Material
Osprey used mesh material across the back of the pack (the part closest to your child’s back). As your child walks, cool air will ventilate, keeping their body from overheating. The frame has twin-welded chevron baffles that stabilize the water and maintain a flat profile.
Included Hydration Pack
Your child gets Osprey’s Hydraulics LT reservoir with this backpack, capable of holding 53 ounces. It’s a high-quality reservoir that features a slide seal at the top, making it easy to remove when you need to refill or clean the pack.
It includes a bite valve with a magnetic clip, attaching the hose to the strap for better management and access.
What We Don't Like
Easy-to-Puncture Valve
The downside to bite valves is that children chew through them, which is easy to do with this one.
Product Specs
| Color | Blue or red |
| Material | Nylon and mesh |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | 12 ounces |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Vibrelli Hydration Pack
Best for Clean Drinking
This hydration pack is perfect for the whole family. The sizing works great for kids or adults! No matter the adventure, this backpack will be your trusted companion. Take it with you hiking, biking, or just on day trips.
We love that it’s been designed with clean drinking in mind. The bladder is made from medical-grade material without BPA or PVC. It has a special film over it so the water doesn’t acquire a nasty plastic taste. When you’re out adventuring all day long, your water will stay fresh and tasty.
What We Like
High Flow Bite-Valve
To drink your tasty fresh water, just turn the Easy-Twist valve 90 degrees, and your water will come up. The water flows fast and doesn’t leak. You can even lock it so it doesn’t drip when you’re not using it. That’s why this backpack is so perfect for a range of adventures!
Lastly, there is a wide top fill making it easy to add ice and water.
Multiple Storage
Water isn’t the only thing you can store in this backpack! The hydration pack has many pockets for all the essentials. There is the main storage pocket, a separate pack for the bladder, and then the quick-access pocket at the front. All the pockets are spacious without being bulky.
Light as a Feather
Maybe not quite as light as a feather, but you know what we mean! At only 14 ounces, this hydration pack is super comfortable to wear all day. It’s ergonomically fitted to suit your body, easy to adjust, and has been made to fit most body sizes.
What We Don't Like
Poorly Designed Velcro Straps
While the Velcro is strong and does its job, it pulls the fabric up a little every time you unfasten it. Over time, this wears down the fabric and could ruin it.
Tight Waist Strap
This is definitely not a universal backpack. It suits standard body sizes but is best for kids as the waist strap is quite tight. Adults found that they couldn’t even fit it over a jacket.
Product Specs
| Color | Orange |
| Material | Nylon and mesh |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | 14 ounces |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Neboic 2-Pack Hydration Backpack
Pure Hydration
If you’re looking for a hydration pack that takes up minimal space and is easy to carry, we recommend this offering from Neboic, which is sold as a two-pack.
The backpacks are suitable for children and adults, so you’ll have one for your kiddo and one for yourself.
Neboic focused solely on hydration. The backpack doesn’t feature many other pockets for gear. However, this makes it ideal for sports.
The pack is stable and easy to adjust to suit users. It’s effortless to refill and clean the reservoir, thanks to its innovative design. Your kids should enjoy wearing this backpack — even on hot days.
What We Like
Lightweight
The Neboic hydration packs are light and slim. They’re made for activities such as biking, running, or hiking. While on the back, they feel stable and light. The hip and adjustable shoulder straps prevent bouncing.
They’re designed to be a perfect fit for kids from age 9 up to adults.
Comfy Fabric
Neboic is all about comfort, and this backpack features breathable material all around. It allows for airflow, keeping your child cool during activities. It’s also quick to dry, so sweat won’t be an issue.
Easy Refills
The drink tube included with the backpack can quickly disconnect from the main reservoir. Your child can refill without too much hassle, and the tube will remain in its spot while refilling takes place.
The tube disconnects by pressing a button; then, you pull the reservoir out of the backpack to refill. Replace the bladder, and reconnect the tube.
What We Don't Like
Plastic Taste
The reservoir may give the water a plastic flavor. This seems to go away after some cleaning.
Product Specs
| Color | Black |
| Material | Mesh |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | N/A |
Our Ratings
User Experience
KBNI 2L Hydration Backpack
Best for Older Kids
KBNI has something great to offer older kids who love hiking. This hydration backpack packs a punch in terms of design and features. With cushioning at the back and sturdy material, this backpack is one your child should feel comfortable using.
It’s an excellent backpack for newbie hikers, with an easy-to-use valve and a large opening. There’s ample room for extra stuff, although it focuses more on keeping a flat profile on the wearer’s back.
Your child can hike through any weather, regardless of how extreme the temperatures are. They can even stay active after dark while remaining safe and visible.
What We Like
An Emphasis on Sanitation
The drinking valve on this backpack is outstanding — it’s easy to use, resembling a water bottle. It unlocks by pulling outward; then, you push it back to lock it. The mouthpiece is soft, and the user can bite it to drink once it’s unlocked.
KBNI included a dust cap for the mouthpiece to keep it clean and covered while not in use.
Food Grade Reservoir
With an FDA-approved BPA-free EVA reservoir, you can ease your mind that your kids won’t consume anything harmful.
The bladder can carry 70.54 ounces (2 liters) worth of water, plenty for the average hike.
It’s effortless to refill thanks to the extra-large screw cap, measuring 2.7 inches in diameter. You can insert ice cubes to keep liquid cooler for longer, and it’s easy to keep clean.
Great Fabric
KBNI is a favorite brand among hikers because its backpacks are durable, and this one is no exception. It’s made of waterproof, scratch-resistant nylon, which will remain fresh-looking for years to come.
All your child’s gear will remain safe, regardless of the weather. Even the buckles are sturdy and capable of withstanding extreme temperatures.
What We Don't Like
Not for Gear Haulers
Some reviewers said that when filling the bladder to the limit, there’s almost no room for gear. The backpack sits flat on the back and focuses more on hydration than having room for storage.
Product Specs
| Color | Green, black, red, or blue |
| Material | Nylon |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | 10.6 ounces |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
CamelBak Mini MULE Hydration Pack
Most Lightweight
The Mini MULE from CamelBak is another outstanding hydration pack for big and small kids. It’s made of comfortable, lightweight materials and is suitable for any season.
The MULE is a smaller version of the Scout, which means it doesn’t have as much room for gear. However, if your child is little, it will suffice.
It’s available in various colors and prints that girls or boys will want to wear. Reflective elements ensure your little one will stay safe and visible on the road. The included Cruz reservoir is outstanding and excellent for small users.
What We Like
Light Material
For the Mini MULE, CamelBak used ultralight materials to create a comfy backpack for young and old users. The back panel consists of breathable air mesh, allowing the wearer to use it even during long, hot days.
The light materials also allow young children — even toddlers — to wear the pack.
Extra Storage Compartments
Although the Mini MULE doesn’t have as much onboard storage as the Scout, it still has plenty for young users. They get a large pocket for an extra layer or a rain cover in case the weather should turn.
Reflectors and Whistle
The backpack features reflective accents all around to ensure your little one is seen while out and about. If needed, there’s also a whistle on the chest strap. Your child can use it if they get lost or during emergencies.
Excellent Reservoir Valve
The Cruz reservoir is a favorite among users. It’s efficient, providing up to 20% more water per sip than other valves. It features an ergonomic handle for refilling and a lever to prevent leaks.
What We Don't Like
Reservoir Is Difficult to Secure in the Backpack
Some reviewers noted the reservoir was a pain to secure inside the backpack. There’s a small rope loop, which is supposed to go around, keeping the bladder in place. However, it’s complicated to fit it when full.
Product Specs
| Color | Baton Rouge and flames, atomic blue and navy blazer, azalea and Aruba blue, black and flames, or camouflage |
| Material | Padded mesh |
| Extra pockets | Yes |
| Reservoir included | Yes |
| Item weight | 7 ounces |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Color | Material | Extra pockets | Reservoir included | Item weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kuyou Hydration Pack | Overall | Teal | Nylon and mesh | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| CamelBak Kid’s Scout Hydration Pack | Reservoir | 3 colors | Padded mesh | Yes | Yes | 11 oz |
| Osprey HydraJet 1.5 Backpack | Pockets | Blue or red | Nylon and mesh | Yes | Yes | 12 oz |
| Vibrelli Hydration Pack | For Clean Drinking | Orange | Nylon and mesh | Yes | Yes | 14 oz |
| Neboic 2-Pack Hydration Backpack | Pure Hydration | Black | Mesh | Yes | Yes | N/A |
| KBNI Hydration Backpack | Older Kids | 4 colors | Nylon | Yes | Yes | 10.6 oz |
| CamelBak Mini MULE Pack | Lightweight | 3 colors | Padded mesh | Yes | Yes | 7 oz |
How to Choose a Hydration Pack for Kids
Size
Just like regular backpacks, hydration packs come in various sizes — finding the proper fit for your child is essential. If the pack is too big, it will affect their mobility. If it’s too small, it will sit too tight, may not close properly, and might not have enough water capacity.
There aren’t many brands that produce packs explicitly designed for kids. Osprey and CamelBak are the only two we were able to find whose backpacks are suitable for children as young as 3 years old.
Many women-specific packs are small enough to suit children aged 8 and up. Some brands offer sizes suitable for older kids and adults.
When sizing the pack, the bottom should reach no lower than your child’s waist. If it goes below, it can affect mobility and compromise comfort.
Drinking Valves
With hydration packs, there are two typical types of drinking valve styles — bite and lever. Bite valves are by far the easiest to operate for kids, but they tend to chew through them rather quickly.
Lever valves work similarly to a tap, where the user can regulate the flow. Youngsters may need some practice with this.
The most common choice is the bite valve, but if you’d prefer a lever, look at the packs from CamelBak. We have a selection of both types on our list.
Material
Carrying a hot backpack can lead to heat exhaustion. To avoid that risk, look for materials that allow for airflow (1).
These typically include padded mesh at the back panel of the pack.
Included Reservoir
Not all hydration packs come with an included reservoir. However, we feel it’s important to include that in your search. You can easily buy separate bladders, but not all backpacks are designed to allow for optimal usage.
Hydration packs with included reservoirs will have the right clips and closures to keep the tube within reach.
Ease of Use
If your child is older and needs to handle refills independently, the reservoir design is worth considering.
It’s mainly the closing mechanism you need to watch out for. A common closure is a turning lid — these are okay to use but can be tricky when refilling. Some brands may use a sliding clip, which is ideal for children — these are easy to lock correctly, ensuring a leak-proof seal.
Keep In Mind
FAQs
Are Hydration Packs Worth It?
Hydration packs are worth it for active kids who participate in outdoor activities like hiking or biking. They make it convenient for kids to stay well hydrated without having to stop and reach for a water bottle.
Can You Put a Hydration Pack In Any Backpack?
While some regular backpacks can accommodate a hydration bladder, specialized hydration packs have features like hose routing and secure pockets that make them more convenient and comfortable for active use.
Can Kids Have Electrolyte Packets?
Yes, kids can have electrolyte packets, especially during intense physical activity or in hot weather. However, it’s important to choose electrolyte solutions appropriate for children and use them according to guidelines.
What Hydration Packs Don’t Taste Like Plastic?
How Long Should a Hydration Pack Last?
With proper care and cleaning, a good hydration pack can last several years. The longevity depends on the frequency of use and how well it’s maintained.
Are Hydration Packs Sanitary?
Hydration packs are sanitary if they’re cleaned and dried properly after each use. Regular cleaning after every use will also prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Can You Put a Hydration Pack In a Washing Machine?
It’s not recommended to put a hydration pack in your washer because it can damage the materials and structure. Hand washing is the best way to clean a hydration pack.
