Hydration packs - how big is 8L?

EH_Rob

Currently got a Camelback Charge (2L) which is great for carrying a 2L reservoir, some tools, an inner tube and my phone. It won't carry anything else though.

I'm looking at this:

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=90118

I know it says 8L capacity - but roughly how big is that? What packs have you got, and how much can you fit in it?

I'm looking for something for all day riding, but I travel pretty light so nothing ridiculous. 3L bladder would be fine.

hainman

I have an 8l one from decathlon and it takes tools,inner tube,grub,bottle of juice on outside net,small packaway waterproof,surprisingly quite alot,handy for a wee half day jaunt....
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/hydration-pa ... 74679.html
half the price too

EH_Rob

Aye that's not bad - the Dakine does have a bigger bladder but the price difference is pretty massive.

I basically am looking for something like my camelbak charge, with either a 2 or 3l bladd, that will take all the stuff I previously listed and also take an extra layer of clothing or two. What sort of size do you reckon? Bigger than 8L?

chrisw333

I'd go 10l, that's still pretty small but gives just that touch more room for manourvre.

bennett_346

I use a 30L backpack

It's a bit much for small rides but since most of my rides are 7+ hours with no access to food or water for several hours at a time the big capacity is necessary. I'm often 10+ miles from home and i don't use a car.

When it's raining too, i like the capacity for carrying a coat (sometimes its too hot to wear one for a 3 mile climb but when you're at the top you'd wish you had it if you didn't).

Guessing this probably doesn't apply to you though

batmo

I have a Berghaus Remote 8+4 which has a zipped expansion piece to increase the capacity to 12l in total. This is a good compromise with a compact size for a good weather day ride (lunch, tools, tube, wind/water proof after you've warmed up) and a bit of extra space for the colder weather (as above plus extra layer for when you stop). All it really lacks is a proper waterproof cover.

PashleyRider

I have this one

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/water-pouch- ... 76457.html

Its great, plenty of room for food and tools, and a strappy bit that's comes out of the bottom zip so I can secure my jacket if needed

EH_Rob

Thanks all, really helpful.