The Best MTB Packs

Are you looking for a high-quality hydration pack for mountain biking? If so, you are in the right place! From short rides to multi-day adventures, these backpacks will help you stay hydrated while allowing you to pack a few extra layers, tools, spares, snacks, and more. First, you must know what gear you want to bring along, as well as the amount of water you’ll need. Think about the weather conditions, the length of the trail, and the type of MTB discipline.

Also, pay attention to other important features, such as materials, compartments, pockets, compression straps, ventilation systems, hydration bladders, hose valves, etc. There are many things to consider, but don’t worry! In this article, I’ll talk about the most important characteristics of MTB backpacks. In addition, I’ll review the best models of the year, so that you can find the one that best suits your needs.

Take a look at other articles to find the best MTB pants, MTB gloves, MTB helmets, MTB action cameras, MTB jackets, MTB shoes, MTB knee pads, and mountain bike GPS computers.

THE BEST MOUNTAIN BIKE BACKPACKS

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CAMELBAK CHASE BIKE VEST

The Camelbak Chase Bike Vest features a minimalist design, a well-ventilated structure, and exceptional stability. This hybrid between a backpack and a vest is gaining in popularity among riders seeking a compact pack. It looks small, but it has several useful compartments, including two shoulder strap pockets, where you can store your smartphone and snacks. In addition, the main pocket has room to carry an extra layer, a spare inner tube, some tools, and a CO2 inflator.

This comfortable vest sits in the middle of your back, so the rear pockets of your jersey will still be accessible. The shoulder straps are quite wide and well-padded, and the two adjustable chest straps increase stability while keeping the pack in place, even when you’re riding on rough terrain.

It includes a 1.5-liter hydration bladder with an easy-to-use refilling system. If you need to bring more water, the front pockets are compatible with 500 ml Camelbak soft flasks. Overall, it’s one of the best models of the year for short mountain bike rides.

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CAMELBAK MULE

The Camelbak Mule is a classic model with a simple, practical, and functional design. It has all the basic features, and not much more. This way, it stays lightweight and easy to use. Despite not having lots of advanced features, it comes with a helmet mount and a dedicated tool compartment.

According to Camelbak, the “Crux hydration system” allows you to drink up to 20% more water per sip. The drinking tube features a magnetic clip, so it can be attached to the right shoulder strap. The tube is easy to access, while the Big Bite valve includes a safety switch that prevents leaks.

The bladder’s refill system is more complicated to operate than those of other models. You’ll need to open the reservoir compartment, slide it up partially or completely, screw the cap, and proceed to refill. It’s not the fastest system, but you’ll get used to it. On the downside, this model lags in terms of comfort.

As compared to new packs, many models feature more stable designs, wider padded straps, and more efficient ventilation systems. This won’t be a problem for occasional MTB rides, but I wouldn’t recommend this pack for long technical trails.

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OSPREY SYNCRO 5L

The Osprey Syncro 5 L is ideal for medium-distance rides. Thanks to its semi-rigid frame, it provides great stability and weight distribution, even with heavy loads. Plus, the mesh back panel offers comfortable support. If you carry tools and other rigid objects, you won’t feel pressure points on your back. This backpack features the excellent AirSpeed ​​BackPanel ventilation system, which makes it ideal for riding on hot days. It’s highly versatile, so you can also wear it on hiking trips.

It has tons of internal storage options for storing extra layers, tools, an inflator, spare tubes, snacks, a smartphone, and more. A separate hydration compartment includes an easy-to-refill 2.5-liter bladder. The magnetic hose can be easily attached to the shoulder strap, providing easy drinking access on the go.

It has an anti-scratch pocket for storing your sunglasses, smartphone, or other electronic devices. In addition, it comes with a few extras, such as a rain cover, a Lidlock helmet attachment, and a rear LED light attachment. As a disadvantage, some riders say it feels too stiff (especially for a compact, 5-liter pack).

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OSPREY SYNCRO 12L

If you liked the above pack, but think you’ll need more space, check out the Osprey Syncro 12 L. Like the 5-liter model, this pack includes a 2.5-liter hydration bladder, a magnetic hose, an anti-scratch compartment, a rain cover, a Lidlock helmet carry, and a blinker light attachment.

However, the Syncro 12L features larger compartments, so you have room for more gear, spares, snacks, and extra layers. In addition, it features four compression straps that keep everything in place, as well as two side pockets in which you can carry two 500 ml water bottles or soft flasks. The semi-rigid structure allows for great weight distribution, which is key in MTB backpacks of this size.

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DAKINE SYNCLINE 12L

The Dakine Syncline 12L is a great mid-size backpack, ideal for day rides on your favorite trails. All compartments are smartly and efficiently separated, so you have quick access to your belongings and tools.

It features a main compartment for storing spare clothes and snacks, a front compartment with inside pockets for tool organization, an anti-scratch pocket for sunglasses, and two useful side pockets. The hydration bladder is placed in the lower compartment, so the weight of the backpack is transferred to the lower back for greater comfort and stability.

The ventilation system is not the most efficient on the list, but overall it performs well, keeping your back cool and ventilated. The drinking hose has a magnetic clip, but unfortunately, it can be attached only to the left shoulder.

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EVOC FR ENDURO BLACKLINE

The Evoc FR Enduro Blackline is a full-featured backpack, ideal for trail and enduro. The hydration compartment has room for storing a 3-liter reservoir (not included). This compartment is quite large and generally compatible with 3-liter hydration packs from other brands, such as Camelbak. Designed to last, this backpack is built with water-resistant and abrasion-resistant materials such as ripstop nylon and tarpaulin, as well as 3D mesh for increased breathability.

The main compartment has room for storing an extra layer, an inflator, a spare tube, and more. The front compartment has dividers for storing basic tools, as well as a zippered pocket for other small items. The hip belt is quite wide and well-padded, which provides great support and stability.

Also, you’ll find an easy-access pocket on the hip belt. In addition, on the front, it has a stretchy “kangaroo pocket” in which you can store your helmet. One of the advantages of this backpack is that it feels incredibly stable, even on rough terrain. Plus, the back panel and padded hip belt make it comfortable to wear.

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CAMELBAK SKYLINE LR 10

The Camelbak Skyline LR 10 has a minimalist, efficient design that places the water reservoir at the lower back. This design helps transfer most of the weight to the hips, thus relieving weight on the shoulders.

The model has two central pockets and two side pockets, one on each side of the hip belt. The larger compartment is designed to store the hydration bladder, which is easy to access and refill. There is also space for storing an extra layer. The other front compartment is designed to store tools. In fact, it includes a tool roll for better organization.

Its ergonomic design, compact size, and wide hip belt make it an excellent choice for technical, rugged, long rides. This pack clings to your back like a Koala and stays firmly in place. It includes a magnetic hose and a helmet holder. On the downside, it could have better inside organization. Overall, it’s ideal for trail riders who don’t need to carry a lot of things.

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VAUDE BIKE ALPIN

With a 30-liter capacity, the Vaude Bike Alpin has more storage options than any other model on the list. It has a firm structure that provides great stability on all types of trails.

Thanks to the internal metal frame, the backpack’s back panel doesn’t sit directly on your back, which improves airflow. It has several compartments with internal pockets for perfect organization. In addition, it includes a padded waterproof pocket for storing your smartphone, and a rain cover.

The main compartment can be extended an additional 5 liters with an external zipper, providing more space for whatever you need to store. The backpack is comfortable to carry, even with heavy loads. However, it would be great if the shoulder straps were slightly wider. Overall, it’s a great MTB backpack for longer trails or even multi-day rides.

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EVOC HIP PACK PRO 3L

If you are looking for something more compact than a backpack, I recommend taking a look at the Evoc Hip pack Pro 3L. This model stands out for its high level of comfort, efficiently ventilated back panel, well-organized compartments, and smart hydration system. Don’t be fooled by its size, as it has enough room to store some tools, snacks, and basic gear.

The hydration system is quite versatile. This waist pack features a 1.5-liter hydration bladder in the central compartment (with a magnetic hose) and two side pockets in which you can store two water bottles (not included).

You can carry the exact amount of water you need depending on the activity. Other advantages are its great stability and support in the lower back, which make it the perfect option for mountain biking on rough terrain.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKE HYDRATION PACK

CAPACITY

First, you must choose the right size for your backpack. Generally indicated in liters, the volume or capacity of your backpack must suit your MTB discipline, the length of the trail, the weather, etc.

As you know, MTB backpacks allow you to store not only water, but also mountain bike gear. So, what are you going to bring? Extra layers, snacks, tools, inner tubes, a smartphone, a camera, a pair of sunglasses?

For short rides, a compact backpack with room for a few snacks and some tools will probably do it. If you like bike touring, you’ll need a large backpack with space for food, spare clothes, and camping gear. Also, you should always carry some tools, so you can fix a flat tire or a broken chain.

HYDRATION BLADDER

Most models come with a hydration bladder, although sometimes it must be purchased separately. Water bladders can come in different sizes, which are generally 1-liter, 2-liter, and 3-liter.

Small bladders are perfect for short activities, while 3-liter bladders are meant for longer rides. Keep in mind that the weather conditions will drastically affect your water consumption. Obviously, you’ll need more water when you’re riding under the scorching sun.

Depending on the brand and model, hydration reservoirs use different filling systems. For instance, Camelback uses a plastic screw cap, while Osprey uses a slide-seal closure. The sliding system is faster to use, while the screw cap is generally tighter.

Each water reservoir is designed for a specific backpack model. Therefore, your old water bladder might not be compatible with your new backpack. It will depend on the shape and size.

HOSE AND VALVE

Water bladders have a plastic hose with a valve at the end, so you can drink comfortably. I recommend choosing a model with a magnetic system that keeps the hose easily accessible and securely attached to one of the shoulder straps. This is essential to preventing the drinking hose from bouncing around.

Drinking valves have different systems to let out the water. Some models use bite valves, while others have tongue-operated push-button valves. Regardless of the system, you should choose a high-quality valve that won’t cause leaks when not in use.

If you’ll be riding in very cold weather, you might need a thermal sleeve to protect the hydration bladder as well as the hose. Otherwise, the water could freeze.

POCKETS AND COMPARTMENTS

A backpack with plenty of pockets and compartments is key to keeping everything well-organized and accessible. This is especially important when you are carrying tools.

Classic packs have a special compartment for the water bladder, a large compartment for storing a rain jacket and spare clothes, and one or two small pockets for snacks, keys, a wallet, a smartphone, etc.

STRAPS

Most models are built with padded shoulder straps, compression straps that keep the inside content in place (thus preventing it from bouncing around while you’re pedaling), and a hip belt that improves stability and support. Some models have external straps for attaching other gear.

VENTILATION SYSTEM

Your backpack’s back panel should feature an efficient ventilation system to keep your back fresh and ventilated. Airflow can be achieved by breathable mesh, a channel system, or a combination of both. If you are riding in a hot place, make sure to choose a well-ventilated model.

HELMET HOLDER

Some people, like enduro riders, may need to change helmets during a competition. That’s why most models designed specifically for enduro include elastic straps and clips, so that the helmet can be attached to the backpack.

WATER RESISTANCE

Although most models are not completely waterproof, they are built with water-resistant materials and often treated with water-repellent sprays that will withstand light to moderate rain.

If you don’t want your gear to get wet at all, choose a model with a rain cover, or get a rain cover separately.

MTB BELTS

Some minimalist riders prefer to wear MTB belts, as they are smaller and lighter. Generally, these riders carry only basic tools and snacks in their waist pack, while using a bottle cage to carry water.

However, not everyone likes waist packs. In fact, most riders prefer the stability of a reliable mountain bike backpack.