Camelbak alternative

OllyUK

When out shopping recently I stumbled across the Camelbak Mule, which I really like, perfect sized compartments, felt comfy but then I saw the price...
Can anyone suggest an equlivent to the Mule at a cheaper price? Is the high price just paying for the brand name or is it because they are just really high quality?
Im looking for a 2-3litre bladder and enough storage space for multitool, camera, inner tube maybe waterproof etc to fit in.

Many thanks

~Olly

Andy B

Most 'big name' hydration packs are similarly priced for their size.

I started with a £30 Source Spinner 2 Pro (2 liters & a small amount of storage space) & now have a ~£60 Camelbak Blowfish (3 liters & loads of storage space).

You get what you pay for, but there will be some bargains in the sales.

omegas

you might find what you are looking for here:

http://www.bikeradar.com/mtb/forums/vie ... t=12554408

Mr_Orange

I've got a Dakine. Can't remember what model, but I seem to recall it was cheaper than the equivalent Camelbak.

I also use it for skiing, just have to remember to blow the water out of the tube after a drink, otherwise it freezes up :?

dave_hill

I use a Gelert Hydro-Wave, £25.99 RRP from all Gelert dealers. Actually got mine for £19.99!!

I think it's excellent - it features a built-in storm cover and external compression cord, plus it has a semi-rigid frame which keeps the pack away from your back (stops you getting too sweaty). OK so it's only a 2 litre bladder, but I've found that adequate so far!

Those of you who read MBR may remember that I had my "Killer Loop" published in the October 2006 issue, for which I was rewarded with a Camelbak Mule amongst other things - I actually sold the Mule on eBay in favour of the Gelert, because I felt that the Gelert was more comfortable and had better construction.

You can actually see my Gelert in action in this month's MBR, look through the advice pages and there's a picture of Tom Locke and myself stopped on a rock-paved causeway just above Todmorden - Tom's on the phone, I've got my back to the camera!

Sorry, I shouldn't name-drop. Dave Grohl told me that.

mudslinger

I recently bought one from Tesco for £9.99. It's 6 ltr storage & 1.5ltr bladder.

I imagine it's not a patch on the Camelback ones but it does the job for me at a fraction of the price.

http://direct.tesco.com/q/R.100-0611.aspx

I'll show my ignorance - who is Tom Locke?

dave_hill

mudslinger wrote:

I'll show my ignorance - who is Tom Locke?

Used to be the features editor at MBR.

S_J_P

I have a Dakine Drafter 2 litre pack which I got in Evan's sale two years ago for around £30, and it's an excellent pack.

I also have an Aldi pack with raincover which cost £7.99 and works almost as well!

If you're not bothered about the look, then go for a cheap pack!

Steve_b77

I bought a Camelback Blowfish from Leisure Lakes just before crimbo for £39.99 it's the blue version, looks kinda nice.

Worth checking if they are still in the sale especially at that price

stumpyjon

The Blowfish were still discounted in the Bury store on Saturday.

I use a Decathlon pack, pretty stable, £20, 2l bladder (which has been fine apart from long hot summer rides), plenty of space for tube, jacket, tools food etc. Vaguely considering a Camelback to replace it but to be honest it works and there are other things higher up the priorities list.