To prevent water from tasting like plastic in a new hydration pack, you can follow a few simple steps:
- Clean the hydration pack: Begin by thoroughly cleaning the hydration pack before its first use. Rinse it with warm soapy water, or use a hydration pack cleaning tablet or solution specifically designed for this purpose. Flush out any soap residue properly.
- Rinsing before use: After cleaning, rinse the hydration pack thoroughly with clean water. This helps remove any remaining soap or cleaning solution residue, which could contribute to the plastic taste in the water.
- Use BPA-free packs: Consider purchasing hydration packs that are labeled as BPA-free. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used in some plastic products that can contribute to an unpleasant taste in the water. BPA-free hydration packs are less likely to impart a plastic taste.
- Use high-quality water bladders: Invest in hydration packs from reputable brands that use high-quality water bladders. Cheaper, low-quality bladders may contain materials that can affect the taste of the water.
- Proper storage: When not in use, ensure the hydration pack is stored in a clean and dry environment. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, as this can cause the plastic to degrade, potentially affecting the taste of the water.
- Regular cleaning: Regularly clean and maintain the hydration pack to prevent the buildup of bacteria, mold, or other contaminants that can impact the taste of the water. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
- Use a filtering system: Consider using a water filtering system that removes impurities and odors. Some hydration packs have built-in filters, or you can use external filters attached to the drinking tube. Filtering the water can help enhance the taste and remove any plastic-related flavors.
By following these steps, you can help minimize or eliminate the plastic taste in the water when using a new hydration pack.
Best Hydration Packs of May 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
TETON Sports Oasis 18L Hydration Pack with Free 2-Liter Water Bladder; The Perfect Backpack for Hiking, Running, Cycling, or Commuting,Olive
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WATER NEVER TASTED SO GOOD: During a long hike having water so convenient and still cold…there’s nothing like it. Lightweight with a custom fit, you’ll forget you have it on until you need it.18L pack give you plenty of storage for your day hike
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HYDRATION BLADDER INCLUDED: 2-liter water bladder included; Complete with durable, kink-free sip tube and innovative push-lock cushioned bite valve; Large 2-inch (5 cm) opening for ice that also makes cleaning easy
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GET THE PERFECT FIT: Low-profile athletic cut with full adjustment fits all body types comfortably; Comfort-taped straps with high-density notched foam stabilizer and mesh covering means you can wear this pack comfortably for hours, Water backpack for hiking fits men, women, and youth
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
MARCHWAY Tactical Molle Hydration Pack Backpack with 3L TPU Water Bladder, Military Daypack for Cycling, Hiking, Running, Climbing, Hunting, Biking (Black)
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Streamlined and Compact Design: 19.7”x8.7”x2.6” in size. Ergonomically fits for your shoulders chest and waist. 3 straps are all adjustable for reducing bounce. Soft air mesh back speeds up air-flow and makes your back cool. Foam padded shoulder straps are extremely comfortable.
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Reliable Material: Heavy duty 1000 Denier water repellent nylon with superior wear resistance. Engineering plastic buckle is durable and impact resistant; Military grade webbing is strong, anti fading; SBS brand zipper is reliable and long lasting.
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Practical Functions: 1 main pocket fits up to 3L water reservoir with either large or small opening. 2 external pockets for storing personal belongings wallet, gadget, towel, phone, keys. The MOLLE system allows you to carry more items.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Vibrelli Hydration Pack & 2L Hydration Water Bladder - High Flow Bite Valve - Hydration Backpack with Storage - Lightweight Running Backpack, Also for Cycling, Hiking, Ski, Snow for Men, Women & Kids
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High Flow Bite-Valve: The ‘Easy-Twist’ mouthpiece doesn’t leak, water flows fast and won't drip on your shoulder when locked, making it an ideal cycling backpack and water backpack for running, skiing, snowboarding, and trail running
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Taste-Free Hydration Bladder: Made from medical grade materials, the water bladder is free from BPA and PVC. There's nothing worse than a plastic taste in your water, this bladder keeps your water tasting fresh, all day
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Multiple Storage Options: Vibrelli's hydration backpack design has intelligent storage options and pockets without being bulky
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Zavothy Lightweight Hydration Backpack with 2L Water Bladder Water Backpack Hydration Pack for Cycling Running Biking Hiking Backpack Black
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LIGHTWEIGHT — The hydration backpack is only 0.73lb/333.5g. Made of waterproof and anti-scratch oxford fabric. Durable and portable water backpack. Enough to get you through a day of hiking, cycling, running or biking
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CONTAIN WATER BLADDER — Zavothy hydration pack backpack with 2L water reservoir. The bladder is BPA-free and anti-leak guaranteed. Stay hydrated in any time without taking an extra water bottle. Convenient and frees up your hands
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LESS PRESSURE TO BACK AND SHOULDER — The backside of the hydration backpack is designed with breathable Y shape soft air mesh. Combining with length-adjustable shoulder gird. Minimize pressure, less tiredness, comfier
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MULTI-FUNCTIONAL — The mountain bike backpack can easily store a bike helmet.Practical for daily running exercise, biking, or short-distance hiking
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
CamelBak Rogue Light Bike Hydration Pack 70oz, Gibraltar Navy/Black
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Lightweight and Durable Materials
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Air Support Light Back Panel: Designed with body mapping technology for efficient ventilation and lightweight comfort
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Ventilated Harness: Lightweight and breathable
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Integrated Tool Organization
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Secure Zippered Pocket: Perfect for keys, phone, or other essentials
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Lightweight Hydration Backpack, Running Backpack with 2L Water Bladder, Hydro Water Daypack for Cycling Hiking Rave for Men Women
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【Lightweight 12L Hydration Backpack 】Super lightweight 8.5 oz hydration pack backpack with 2L water bladder. Waterproof and tear-resistant fabric, PU coated nylon hydration pack bears 25 lbs.
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【Leakproof & Anti-popping Water Bladder】Water backpack for hiking with 2L bladder, BPA-free, food-grade PEVA material, and hose clamp. Leakproof bite value, water flows fast and never drips on when locked.
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【Comfortable & Breathable & Adjustable】Multi-adjustable shoulder straps on hydration Pack, adjustable to 19"-34" on should straps, 2.4"-7.9"on chest strap(up & down). Hydration packs are suitable for adults. Ergonomically fits for your shoulders, chest, and waist. Soft air mesh back speeds up the air flow and makes your back cool.
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【Thoughtful Storage Details】Running backpack bidirectional main zipper pocket for a water bladder, small storage compartments on front, two small mesh pouches for umbrella, mineral water, BlueTooth stereo, two mesh pouches on the shoulder on phone, and keys.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
EVERFUN Hiking Hydration Backpack with Water Bladder 2-Liter Water Backpack Women Men Lightweight Insulation Hydration Day Rucksack for Hiking, Cycling, Running, Climbing, Camping
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UTMOST STORAGE CAPACITY: 10.5-inch large opening 18-Liter main compartment to fit clothes/notebook/first-aid kit/pets' stuff. Built-in mesh pocket for personal valuables. Exterior upper velvet pocket perfect for protecting cameras, mobile phones. Trekking poles, extra water bottle in the side mesh pockets for easy access. Helmet carry between the outer pocket and middle pocket. Don't worry, the EVERFUN Hydration backpack has the utmost storage capacity for you.
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HIKING/CYCLING/SKIING WITH EASE -- With Ultra-Elastic 3D breathable padded back & adjustable chest, waist straps, this 2 pounds lightweight hydration backpack is comfortable and stable, perfect fits all sizes.
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HANDS FREE DRINKING -- This Hydration Backpack comes with 2-Liter water bladder & bilateral hose outlets designed to free your hands. A separate insulated bladder compartment for 6 Hours' Cooling(with ice packs) . The 2-Liter bladder is replaceable and supports up to 3-Liter.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Water Buffalo Hydration Backpack - Hydration Pack Water Backpack with 2L Hydration Water Bladder - Hydropack Running Backpack 12L - The Essential Water Pack for Hiking, Running, Biking, Ski, and Raves
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Adventure Awaits You – Go the distance with the help of a Water Buffalo running water backpack. Your water backpack for hiking, running, cycling and biking is designed to keep you hydrated for the road ahead. Also the perfect kids hydration backpack!
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Satisfy Your Thirst – Keep fresh, cool water on deck thanks to your insulated hydration backpack and 2L water bladder. Your insulated pocket and tube maintains the temperature for up to 5 hours in your hydration bag.
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Lightweight and Comfortable – Fit any essential in your backpack water bottle without overloading yourself. Your water bottle backpack includes a chest strap so you can travel long distances with ease making it the ideal water backpack for biking.
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Party Pack – Bring your own festival hydration backpack to your next rave. When you stay hydrated with your rave hydration pack, you make the good times and vibes last even longer.
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
CamelBak Arete 14 Hydration Backpack, 50oz, Black/Reflective
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Lightweight and breathable materials: Designed for all-day comfort
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3D Vent Mesh Harness: Lightweight and breathable with added cargo.
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Laptop Sleeve: Keep your 13" laptop protected
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Secure Phone Pocket: Conveniently located with a zipper closure for secured quick access
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Stretch Overflow Pocket: Quickly stash or shed an extra layer
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
NOOLA Hydration Backpack with 3L TPU Water Bladder, Tactical Molle Water Backpack for Men Women, Hydration Pack for Hiking, Biking, Running and Climbing (Black)
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High-quality Outdoor Hydration Backpack- Our hiking hydration pack has comprehensive features for hiking adventures and outdoor sports. The 900D abrasion-resistant nylon material, multi pockets (9 pockets including 4 zippered pockets and 5 multi compartments), BPA and odor free TPU hydration bladder, 3L large capacity hydration reservoir, double fastened shoulder and waist straps, tactical molle compatible system integrate into NOOLA unique hiking water backpack.
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Well Organized Ample Space - Keep all of your essentials organized and secure inside 9 functional and separated pockets, including 4 zippered pockets and 5 multi compartments for conveniently storing bladder, clothes, towel, snacks, phone, sunglasses, keys etc.
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Molle Compatible: our tactical molle hydration pack is well constructed with 5 molle straps, which is appropriated for attaching your hiking gear, camping or any other essentials and expand your stuff into a day’s trip.
11
Rating is 4 out of 5
QuickStart 2.0 6 Liter Hydration Pack Charcoal/Reflective Silver / OSFM
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One size fits most
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Adjustable sternum straps
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Moisture wicking stretch woven fabric with chafe free binding materials
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Breathable mesh shoulder straps
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Two main zipper pockets on the back
12
Rating is 3.9 out of 5
CamelBak SnoBlast 22 Hydration Pack 70oz, Black/White
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SnowShield Material: Repels snow and keeps it from sticking to your pack
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Therminator Harness: Drinking tube zips into an insulated sleeve in the shoulder strap to protect your water supply from the elements
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Ski Carry: Use the external straps to carry skis A-frame or diagonally on the outside of the pack
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Tri-Zip Access: Three-zipper design lets you unzip the side of the pack for quick access to gear stored at the bottom
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Expansion Panel: Expansion panel unzips to add more storage capacity to your pack
13
Rating is 3.8 out of 5
Outdoor Products Tadpole Hydration Pack (Black) (Violet Tulip) (Violet Tulip)
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RELIABLE & DURABLE MATERIAL: 13. 5 x 7. 5 x 2. 1 inches, Capacity: 3. 5L; The Tadpole Hydration Pack is made of high density durable polyester fabric
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RESERVOIR INCLUDED: 1. 5L reservoir to keep you hydrated while enjoying the outdoors
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COMFORTABLE & FUNCTIONAL: Heavy duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls, top carry handle, compression straps and lightweight and breathable mesh shoulder straps
How to treat water to avoid it tasting like plastic in a hydration pack?
To treat water and prevent it from tasting like plastic in a hydration pack, you can follow these steps:
- Clean your hydration pack: Start by thoroughly cleaning your hydration pack before adding any water. Use warm soapy water and a brush to clean the reservoir, tube, and bite valve. Rinse off any soap residue and allow it to dry completely.
- Use BPA-free hydration pack: Ensure that your hydration pack is made of BPA-free materials. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that can affect the taste of water and leach into it, giving it a plastic-like taste. Using a BPA-free hydration pack reduces the chances of plastic taste.
- Use filtered water: If your tap water has a strong plastic taste, consider using filtered water instead. It can be obtained from a filtered water pitcher, a faucet filter, or bottled water. Filtered water tends to have a purer taste, reducing any plastic or chemical taste.
- Pre-flush the hydration pack: Before using your hydration pack, pre-flush the system with 1-2 liters of water. This will help remove any residual taste from the materials. After flushing, empty the pack and refill it with fresh water.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight: Avoid leaving your hydration pack in direct sunlight or subjected to high heat for extended periods. Heat can accelerate the release of chemicals from the materials, causing the water to taste like plastic.
- Add flavorings: If you're still experiencing a slight plastic taste, you can consider adding natural flavorings to the water, such as lemon or lime slices, fresh mint leaves, or cucumber. These additions can help mask any unwanted flavors.
- Consider using a water filter: If you frequently encounter water sources with a strong plastic taste, using a water filter can be beneficial. Water filters can remove impurities and improve the taste of the water.
Remember to regularly clean and maintain your hydration pack to prevent any residual taste or odor from building up over time.
How to properly dry a hydration pack after cleaning to prevent plastic taste in the water?
To properly dry a hydration pack after cleaning and prevent any plastic taste in the water, follow these steps:
- Empty and rinse: Empty any remaining water from the hydration pack and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Make sure to rinse both the reservoir and the drinking tube.
- Use cleaning agents: If there are any stubborn stains or odors, you can use a mild cleaning agent like baking soda or specific hydration pack cleaning tablets. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended cleaning agents.
- Rinse again: After using cleaning agents, rinse the hydration pack again with clean water to remove any residual cleaning solution.
- Hang to dry: Hang the hydration pack upside down in a well-ventilated area. Ensure that all components, including the reservoir and drinking tube, are properly spread out to allow air circulation and for water to drip out.
- Use a drying rack or air dry: You can use a hydration pack drying rack designed specifically for this purpose. It helps to keep the pack open, allowing maximum airflow. If you don't have a rack, simply make sure it is hung in a place where it can air dry properly.
- Keep it open: Leave the hydration pack open, including the reservoir and the drinking tube, to allow air circulation during the drying process. This will help prevent any moisture from being trapped and causing a plastic taste.
- Patience: Allow the hydration pack to dry completely before reassembling and using it. This may take several hours or overnight, depending on the humidity and ventilation in the area.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your hydration pack is properly dried and free from any plastic taste when you use it for your next adventure.
How to minimize the plastic aftertaste while using a new hydration pack?
To minimize the plastic aftertaste while using a new hydration pack, you can follow these steps:
- Clean the hydration pack before its first use: Thoroughly clean the hydration pack with warm soapy water and rinse it multiple times to remove any residual manufacturing materials. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and water to eliminate any lingering odors or tastes.
- Use only BPA-free hydration packs: Ensure that the hydration pack you use is made from BPA-free materials. BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical commonly found in plastics that can leach into liquids and cause an unpleasant taste.
- Fill the hydration pack with water and let it sit overnight: Before using the hydration pack for the first time, fill it with water and let it sit overnight. This will help in removing any residual plastic taste that might be present.
- Flush the system with clean water: Before your actual use, flush the hydration pack and the tubing with clean water. Allow the water to run through the entire system for a few minutes to help remove any residual plastic flavor.
- Use the hydration pack regularly: The more frequently you use the hydration pack, the quicker any residual plastic taste should disappear. Over time, the taste typically diminishes as the materials get conditioned with use.
- Avoid leaving water in the pack for extended periods: If you are not planning to use the hydration pack for a few days, make sure to completely empty and dry it. Stagnant water can contribute to plastic flavors.
- Consider using flavored water or electrolyte mixes: Adding flavored water or electrolyte mixes can sometimes help mask the plastic aftertaste. However, make sure to choose mixes that are soluble and won't clog the hydration pack or its tubing.
- Use charcoal filters or flavor filters: Some hydration packs come with replaceable filters that help in reducing or eliminating any plastic taste. These filters, like charcoal filters, can improve the overall taste of the water.
By following these steps, you can minimize the plastic aftertaste and enjoy fresh-tasting water from your hydration pack.
