Originally Posted by
rbrides
Most folks i see do NOT use a hydration pack while bikepacking. I presume it is because several days with the weight on your back get to be too much. Or is it?
Bike-bag capacity being limited, it seems a useful way to carry the water and some light clothing, etc. I use one on day-long gravel rides so I don't see much downside. Am I missing something?
Nope, not missing anything…other than lost bottles and bathtub temperature water. I use a hydration pack on nearly every ride in nearly every kind of weather (I use an insulation system for winter riding). When on tour…either bikepacking off-road or touring on-road…I have a Camelbak on and it is stuffed with ice if I have ice available. Ice water is refreshing and encourages you to drink more. The ice in the pack also serves as a cooling system while sitting on your back. In high humidity areas…not Colorado…water condenses on the bag and even drips down your back. It makes 90°F/90% humidity bearable for someone who is used to humidities far lower than that.