Most cyclists, hiking enthusiasts and hikers have already purchased a backpack with a drinking system. Using a hydrator or “drinking system” allows you to have free access to drinking water at any time, which is important especially in situations where your hands are busy and it is problematic to get a bottle of liquid.
By design, “drinking systems” resemble a bag (container) with a tube, and although at first glance there is nothing unusual in such a device, there are still some nuances, which should be paid attention to. Hydrators on today’s market are presented in different volumes, by different manufacturers, with or without a cover. All of these characteristics affect the price of the product. You can always buy a drinking system for backpack or hydrators in the online store SportsTerritory.
Features of backpack drinking systems
In choosing such a thing you need to consider the material of manufacture and method of sealing:
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The material of the travel hydrator.
This is usually transparent polyethylene. There are also translucent and opaque options. Experts recommend choosing a transparent version, as it is easier to trace the purity of the container.
Sealing method
There are two options:
- Hydrator with cover;
- Hydrator with latch.
The first type has the advantage. The screw-on lid has a better seal and resists impact.
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Hydrator tube
The tube is attached to the bottom of the drinking system and can be unscrewed if necessary. It is better to choose models with a long tube, they are more practical and in any place of storage (backpack, belt bag) will perform its direct purpose. Introducing the British brand Karrimor hydrator.With a capacity of 2 liters. It has a large screw cap for easy filling and cleaning. The closure valve also has a dust cap to keep the valve clean.
- The material of manufacture is elastic and soft, it is important that at zero temperature the tube does not become brittle, otherwise cold water will simply tear it.
You can always buy a drinking system for your backpack or hydrators in the online store SportsTerritory.
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Drinking system valve
In addition to the tube, the backpack hydrator has a valve (mouthpiece). This is a tip that is located on the tube, its main purpose is to supply liquid. There are two types of valves: 
- direct
- g-shaped.
The second type has the advantage. L-shaped valves are more convenient, because the tube system usually goes on the backpack strap and with this shape, the tube can be made shorter, it bends at 90°. The straight valve bends the tube 180°. The valve must have a dust cap.
Important! A good valve has two twist systems:
- transporting (mechanism that blocks access to water from the tube to the nipple)
- operative (located in the nipple).
The size of the neck is important
The range includes tanks with 3.5″ and 2.5″ neck diameters. 3.5 inches is a large enough neck, allowing you to pour ice into the tank and clean the device more thoroughly during washing.
Why do I need a cover for my hydrator?
Backpack drinking systems can be sold with or without covers. Pouches provide durability, because to pierce the product in a backpack is easier than it seems, they also keep the temperature of the liquid (cold, hot). The cover is made of durable fabric and always comes with more 
expensive drinking systems, for budget systems cover will have to purchase separately.
When you do not need a backpack, but you need a paddlebag (e.g. for runners), you use a special hydrosack . We present you a water bag by the British brand Karrimor . Weight 100 grams. Designed for a capacity of 2 + 0.5 liters.
How do I choose a hydrator capacity?
The volume of the tank depends on the type of activity:
- 1-1.5 liters is a system for children or short trips around town;
- 2 liters – the optimal weight to volume ratio, the most popular liters among tourists and cyclists
- 3 liters is necessary if you will not have long access to drinking water in hiking conditions.
What to buy a backpack hydrator depends on the budget, personal preference and purpose. If you like to hike or travel a short distance around town, don’t get 3-liter hydrators. Do not forget, 1 liter weighs about 1 kg, to carry such a product is not quite comfortable, tanks with more space are suitable for mountain bikers and hikers walking long distances.
Tips for backpacking drinking systems:
- When buying pay attention to the way the tube is attached , it should not dangle;
- Think about where to carry the tank;
- Rinse the device after each use: water leaves a deposit that accumulates on the surface;
- Do not pour milk, juices with pulp into the system unless you want to clog the valve;
- Be careful: despite the strength of the material and the brand name, these things are still very fragile.
You can always buy a drinking system for backpack or hydrators in the online store SportsTerritory. Products of European brands, proven by thousands of tourists on personal experience.
