Last updated on January 2nd, 2023 at 08:08 am
Shorter day hikes call for an efficient way to carry your hydration and supplies. If you’re hitting the trail for only a few hours, a heavier backpacking pack might not be the most suitable option. You’ll need a convenient system for toting your essentials — one that won’t weigh you down or cause unwanted mid-hike fatigue.
Enter the hiking waist pack: these sleek, low-profile packs provide ample storage without the extra weight. Many types even feature space for your water bottle so you can stay hydrated on the go. But with so many options out there, what are the best hiking waist packs with water bottle holders?
Through the rest of this post, we’ll review some of the best hiking waist packs with water bottle holders and guide you to choosing the right one for you.
The Best Hiking Waist Packs With Water Bottle Holders Are...
Hiking packs with water bottle holders will need to have good carrying capacity, easy to access pockets, and remain relatively lightweight. All of the options on our list are great, but we felt the three below were the best of the best:
Most versatile: FREETOO Hydration Belt with Bottle Holder
Best value: YUOTO Waist Pack with Water Bottle Holder
Third Place: cglm Hiking Fanny Pack With Water Bottle Holder
Best that includes the water bottle itself: The CamelBak Podium Series Waist Pack
While you would likely be happy with any of the three we mention above, I would highly encourage you to read further to check out our comparison table of all those we review.
Comparison Table of Water Holding HIking Waist Packs
To help you narrow down which water bottle holding waist pack is best for you, we put together this comparison table. This way you can see them side-by-side. You can click on any of the pictures or product names to see more specs, pictures, or current pricing on Amazon.
| Picture | Name / Link | Price |
|---|---|---|
 
|
FREETOO Lightweight Running Water Belt | $ |
 
|
YUOTO Outdoor Fanny Pack | $ |
 
|
cglm Fanny Pack with Water Bottle Holder | $ |
 
|
CamelBak Podium Flow | $$ |
 
|
Runtasty Hydration Belt | $+ |
While the above does a good job of showing you what each belt looks like, below we go into MUCH more detail on each of the options on our list.
1. FREETOO Hydration Belt with Bottle Holder
Weighing less than a banana, the FREETOO Hydration Belt is an excellent choice for lightweight durability on the trail. With its slip-proof, no bounce design, you can be sure it will stay in place even during high impact activities.
Lightweight Construction
A general rule of thumb: the lighter the waist pack, the more freely you can engage in high impact adventures. And at only 0.35 lbs (that’s less than the weight of the water it carries), the FREETOO doesn’t disappoint. It is one of the lightest hiking waist packs that come with a water bottle holder on the market.
Marketed as a water belt, its fully adjustable design integrates durable mesh layers for both light carry weight and breath-ability.
When you’re out in the wilderness, the weight-mindfulness behind this product will surely make an impact — so that you can make an impact on the trails.
Various Pockets + Large Water Bottle Holder
The FREETOO features dedicated pockets for each of your items, like a mobile phone, energy gel packs, and keys. Keeping all your essentials sorted means you’ll spend less time fumbling through your pack and more time enjoying your journey.
And the pièce de résistance? This pack fits water bottles up to 30 ounces — enough to keep you hydrated for a substantial length of time. There’s even an adjustable elastic rope for added stability during your hike.
Especially when hiking in warmer weather, you’ll want to bring plenty of water without getting too cumbersome. The FREETOO gets 5 stars across the board when it comes to hydration capacity vs. weight.
Tons of Carrying Capacity
With considerable carrying capacity, you won’t have to leave any of your everyday items behind. The large main pocket and sizable front bag hold everything from cash and cards to granola bars.
Constructed from a durable nylon material, each pocket will stretch a bit to tote the items you’ll need on your journey. And with partition storage, you won’t have to forego any of your hiking essentials — even up to a 6.5-inch mobile phone can come along.
We also enjoy this hiking waist pack’s adjustability to any waist size from 23.62 to 49.21 inches. No matter your size, any hiker can find the right fit.
FREETOO Hydration Belt with Bottle Holder Pros and Cons
FREETOO Hydration Belt PROS
- Lightweight, adjustable design
- Holds large size water bottle
- Lots of pockets
- Good overall carrying capacity
- Adjustable to different waist sizes
FREETOO Hydration Belt CONS
- Water bottle not included
Who Will Benefit Most From This Hydration Belt?
The FREETOO Hydration Belt with Bottle Holder is the perfect option for day hikers of any skill level. Useful on all grades of trail, this waist pack provides the comfort and adjustability you’d expect from a lightweight carry system, without compromising on storage capacity. You can check out more pictures, specifications, and current pricing on Amazon here: FREETOO Hydration Belt With Water Bottle Holder.
2. YUOTO Waist Pack with Water Bottle Holder
For a water-resistant option that offers nighttime visibility, give the YUOTO hiking waist pack a gander. Suitable for low light conditions, you can remain safe and visible whether it’s early morning, night or in bad weather.
Fully Adjustable
With a waist belt that can be lengthened a generous 25 inches, this pack accommodates many body sizes and shapes. This hiking waist pack is well suited for beginner hikers or anyone who is just starting an outdoor fitness program. It also features a buckle on the waist belt for easy fastening and removal.
Another pro feature: an adjustable pull-tie fastening strap that tightens to reduce water bottle movement, providing further on-trail stability.
High Visibility
For nighttime hikes or bad weather conditions, being seen is what keeps you safe.
The YUOTO features a large reflective panel on the front of the water bottle holder, keeping you noticeable in low light environments. The 3M reflective belt loop also adds additional visibility from various angles.
Water Resistant
Constructed from durable, water-resistant nylon, the pack’s outer surface will keep your belongings dry in wet weather. In slippery or muddy trail conditions, you can worry less about the safety of your valuables and stay focused on your footing.
Whether it’s a sudden mid-hike downpour or a light drizzle, this hiking waist pack will protect your essentials from getting waterlogged.
Pros and Cons of the YUOTO Waist Pack With Water Bottle Holder
YUOTO Waist Pack PROS
- Water-resistant nylon outer shell
- Fully adjustable belt, pull-tie to reduce impact shake
- Reflective panels for visibility in low light surroundings
YUOTO Waist Pack CONS
- Mainly a water bottle holder (smaller pockets for other items)
- Water bottle not included
- Limited availability within the U.S.
Who is This Hydration Belt Perfect For?
This is the perfect hiking waist pack for beginner hikers, overweight individuals or anyone just starting an outdoor fitness regimen. Its fully adjustable design makes the YUOTO a great choice for comfort and stability on the trail.
And if sunrise or sunset hikes are on your radar, this pack will provides a reflective construction to help keep you safer in the dark.
If you want to feel prepared for anything this waist pack might be perfect for you. You can check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon here: YUOTO Waist Pack with Water Bottle Holder.
3. cglm Hiking Fanny Pack With Water Bottle Holder
If you’re looking to maximize the real estate on your waist, the cglm Fanny Pack may be for you. Its defining qualities are its impressive carrying capacity and multiple pockets, which broaden the range of items you can bring on your hike.
Large Carrying Capacity
Wanting to bring trail mix, sunglasses, snacks or even a book on your trek? Is a DSLR camera something you’ll want to tote along on the trail?
The cglm can fit a sizable amount of items inside its roomy two-way zipper pockets, each of which measures approximately 8 inches wide. Their nylon construction also expands a bit to provide additional depth for bulkier items.
In terms of overall storage capacity, the cglm gets a pretty high grade on our scale. It will even fit large, heavy items without breaking a sweat.
And you won’t break a sweat either — there’s even a spot to store a cooling towel on warm weather hikes.
Water Resistant Outer Shell
Making this fanny pack both sweat-proof and rain-proof, the nylon outer shell will keep your items dry as you hike, no matter the forecast.
Rain or shine, you’ll spend less time worrying about the state of your valuables and more time enjoying the trail.
The cglm is also machine washable and promises not to color fade after water exposure.
Adjustable Strap Styles
Whether you prefer to wear the cglm as a fanny pack or secure it over your shoulder, you have either option. Interchangeable straps make this hiking waist pack customizable to your personal carry style.
Prefer a shoulder pack or cross-body pack? Perhaps you’d enjoy a tote or just the traditional waist pack style. Either way, the cglm offers some versatile carry options.
Suitable for both men and women, the adjustable waist belt will accommodate any size or shape with a range of 20.5 to 47.5 inches.
Pros and Cons of The cglm Hiking Fanny Pack with Water Bottle Holers
cglm Fanny Pack PROS
- Large carrying capacity to fit a range of items
- Sweat-proof and rain-proof outer material
- Adjustable straps for comfortable wear
cglm Fanny Pack CONS
- Not lightweight
- Water bottle holder placement on one side may cause uneven weight distribution
Who the cglm Hiking Fanny Pack is Ideal For?
If you enjoy bringing along all the comforts of home while you’re out on the trail, the cglm pack is a solid choice. Roomy pockets and spacious design allow for bulkier items to tag along on your journey.
So if it’s a camera, a good book, some snacks, or UV eye protection you’re after, the cglm has got you covered.
Multiple wearing options with strap interchangeability make the cglm Fanny Pack a perfect match for those who prefer functional alternatives.
4. CamelBak Podium Flow
For a high capacity hiking waist pack that includes its very own BPA-free water bottle, consider the CamelBak Podium Flow. It holds any squeeze bottle in the CamelBak Podium Dirt Series, complete with protective mud cap, to keep you both hydrated and hygienic on the trail.
Bottle Included!
Engineered to produce a high flow rate, the Podium Dirt Series squeeze bottle included with this waist pack holds 21 ounces. An extra treat: its double-walled construction will keep water cold for twice as long.
The integrated mud cap ensures a clean drinking experience by blocking debris from contaminating the mouthpiece. It will keep dust, dirt, and other contaminants from entering your hydration supply.
Free of BPA, BPS, and BPF, this bottle boasts an “easy to clean” guarantee.
High Storage Capacity
Boasting up to 2 liters of storage space, you’ll have more than enough room to store your valuables. Your mobile phone, keys, ID, cash, and cards will all fit comfortably in its spacious zip pocket.
As sizable as it is, though, the CamelBak is still lightweight. Weighing in at only 6 ounces (less than a large apple), it boasts a minimalist design despite its carry potential.
This makes the CamelBak one of the lightest weight hiking waist pack contenders, as a consideration for the weight-conscious. The items you stow inside this pack will easily exceed the weight of the pack itself.
Fully adjustable for waists 28 to 46 inches thick, the waist strap features a buckle that can be tightened or loosened for a customized, secure fit. This holds the pack in place no matter what kind of wilderness you’re getting into.
Low Center of Gravity
The CamelBak keeps consistent with the crucial scientific principle that a low center of gravity is beneficial to sustaining joint health and proper range of motion.
For those who hike often or engage in other forms of high impact exercise, this is especially important long-term. This waist pack is designed to strategically position its weight distribution low on your body, especially when full.
Lowering your center of gravity effectively improves balance and reduces fatigue as you hike. Keeping weight lower on the body prevents sway and instability in your stride.
For these reasons, the CamelBak is not just useful for hikers, but also cyclists and mountain bikers. CamelBak’s website features the Podium Flow as part of its Mountain Biking collection, although it is versatile enough to use for hikes and trail adventures.
CamelBak Podium Flow Pros and Cons
CamelBak Podium Flow PROS
- Lightweight
- Tons of carrying capacity
- Keeps weight distribution low for better balance
- Durable construction and materials
- Adjustable waist strap
CamelBak Podium Flow CONS
- Higher price point than comparable waist packs
Who is this Hiking Belt Perfect For?
For those who don’t mind spending a few extra bucks, the CamelBak Podium Flow Waist Pack is the perfect lightweight fanny pack that’s built to last. And if you don’t want to go searching for a suitable water bottle to fit in its holder, it already comes with a swanky one — so you’re all set.
Long-term hikers and anyone exercising for sustained periods will benefit from this waist pack’s low center of gravity design. If you hike often, this is a good option for reducing the stress to your lower body joints.
CamelBak markets this item as a cycling and mountain biking waist pack, so be aware of its intended use, but also be aware that it works fantastically as a hiking waist belt. Check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon here: CamelBak Podium Series Waist Pack.
5. Runtasty Belt with Water Bottle Holder
Featuring a balanced dual-bottle design and no-slip Neoprene lining, the Runtasty Belt has earned a great deal of praise in the hiking community. From sweatproof components to reflectors, there’s a lot to love about this hiking waist pack
Holds Two (Included!) Bottles
Want even more hydration? The Runtasty’s dual-bottle construction holds two water bottles!
Each of the two included 10-ounce water bottles stows in its own holder on either side of this hiking waist pack. This makes for level weight distribution even when both water bottles are filled with liquid. Say goodbye to lopsided, uneven carry systems as you hike.
Another valuable feature: its anti-slip technology ensures a comfortable fit, time after time. Ensuring a “no bounce” fit, the waist strap adjusts for 27 to 37 inch waist sizes.
The golden rule of outdoor gear: if you have to think about your gear at all while you’re out in the elements, it’s the wrong product for you.
For example, ill-suited hiking boots will eventually distract you with foot pain. So, too, if you carry an unsuitable pack, your focus will quickly shift from the beautiful scenery to the unwanted stress on your joints.
With its ergonomic design, the Runtasty hiking waist pack hits all the marks for balance, comfort, and proper fit.
Touch Screen Compatible Cover
Front and center on this hiking waist pack is a convenient touch screen window. You can check messages, answer important calls, and adjust your playlist as you hike, all without ever removing your phone from its pocket.
The pocket itself is sweatproof and water resistant, so it’ll keep your electronic devices protected from the elements — even in wet climates.
In terms of size, the front electronics pocket is large enough to fit the largest iPhone or Android models, even with its protective case.
Extra Large Pockets
With one 8.5-inch wide pocket and a secondary pocket that is 6.5 inches wide (a combined 15 inches of overall storage width), the Runtasty is a spacious choice for hikers.
When you can’t leave behind any of your essential items, the Runtasty will stand up to the task of carrying them.
Concerned about your valuables getting wet? Fear not — “stay dry” neoprene fabric pockets prevent moisture from reaching your items, whether from sweat, rain or fog. The dedicated front electronics pocket with touch panel features even more protection from whatever your hike might throw at you.
Runtasty Belt Pros and Cons
Runtasty PROS
- Includes 2 BPA-free water bottles
- Generous carrying capacity
- Keeps weight distribution even for better balance
- Take calls, check messages, and change music with the touch screen window panel
Runtasty CONS
- At 10.58 ounces, it is not the lightest weight option
- Durability — some fabrics may show wear over time
- Elastic waistband components may stretch out with extended use
Which Hikers Will Love This Hiking Waist Pack?
The Runtasty is perfect for hikers of all skill levels and abilities. If larger storage capacity is important to you, this hiking waist pack is a safe bet. It can safely stow and protect an array of items on your hike, all while evenly balancing carry weight as you cover ground.
You may prefer a dual-bottle design — with water weight on each hip — over the functionality of a single, central water bottle. Depending on your body shape and preferences, spreading out your water weight may be more comfortable for you. If this sounds like you, the Runtasty Waist Belt is our go-to dual-bottle hiking waist pack.
Get On The Trails and Stay Hydrated!
It may seem like a difficult quest to find the perfect hiking waist pack that also comes with a water bottle holder. Hopefully this post has provided you with the confidence that there are some options that will suit your body shape, hydration needs, and cargo storage preferences.
To reiterate our previous point about appropriate hiking gear, the whole point is to adhere to the golden rule of gear: if you have to think about your gear at all while you’re out in the elements, you’re wearing the wrong gear for you.
This is why it is important to choose a hiking waist pack with water bottle holder that is best suited for YOUR individual needs. We hope this post has helped you to find your perfect fit by narrowing down some excellent options for your next hike.
Happy Hiking!
Image Credit: Adam Bautz | (https://www.flickr.com/photos/130811041@N04/) | Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) — reduced file size and cropped
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