5 Best Kids Hydration Packs In 2023

We purchased the Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E. for our two youngest kids and love them. They are the perfect size for kids between the age of 3 and 9.

A younger child of 2 years of age could also probably use the Mini Mule, I would just be cautious not to fill the bladder all the way or put heavy snacks in their pack, but it is a great starter kids hydration pack for your youngest hiking tykes!

The Mini Mule has the perfect amount of storage space for small children on day hikes.

Since purchasing these hydration packs, our children have been able to hike longer and more difficult hikes simply because it allows them to stay hydrated without having to stop and get out a water bottle every few minutes. 

The Mini MULE comes in several nice colors and is super cute!

Pros:

• The Camelbak Mini M.U.L.E. is very compact.  It is considered a good hydration pack for biking, but we also find it very useful as a kids hydration pack for smaller children.

• The zippered storage compartments may appear small, but are the perfect size for small snacks for small hands!
• The 1.5-liter reservoir holds plenty of water for a day hike without overburdening the weight of the pack
• Very lightweight at 4.7 oz

Cons:

• The bladder can be difficult to remove from the pack, especially when it is partially full.
• The bladder cap can also be tricky to retighten.

The benefit of purchasing the Camelbak Scout over the Mini Mule Mule is primarily the size of the pack.  We purchased the Scout for our older son to help us carry more snacks and extra electrolyte beverages. 

The weight is still very manageable for him, and all the Pros of the Mini Mule are true for the Scout. We have found with the Scout getting the reservoir in and out of the pack is much easier. 

The reservoir has the same tricky cap on the bladder so take care in securing it properly.

• Great lightweight pack for hiking or older kids

• Larger zipper storage compartment than the Mini M.U.L.E. along with an additional smaller outer compartment
• Side mesh pockets for extra water or small flip-flops or sandals
• Same great breathable mesh and adjustable straps
• Easier to remove and replace reservoir after filling
• 1.5 Liter capacity
• Weighs only 14.4 oz when the reservoir is empty

Cons:

• Same tricky reservoir cap as the mini mule
• The larger pack may be too big for a smaller child

Camelbak’s Skeeter hydration pack is a minimalist pack.  This pack is great for really small kids or if there is no need to carry gear.

Pros:

• Very lightweight at only 3.5 oz
• Perfect for the smallest hiker in your crew
• Reflective accents help keep things visible in low light
• 1.5 Liter Capacity

• No storage compartments

We chose the Osprey Kid’s Moki 1.5 hydration pack as another excellent hydration pack for kids.  Osprey brand packs and kid carriers are well designed and have an excellent reputation in the outdoor market. 

We like the Osprey for its compact lightweight design as well as great storage. 

We also really like the magnetic attachment for the hydration tube.

Pros:

• Compact and relatively lightweight at 7 ounces
• Great front shove-it pocket for a light jacket, small shoes, or extra hydration beverage
• A magnetic water tube helps prevent dragging on the ground
• Blinker light attachment to help in seeing kids after dark

Cons:

• Small size may not be suitable for older children

The Osprey Kid’s Hydrajet hydration pack is a larger pack with front panel access to the main compartment. 

The bungee makes it nice for carrying extra shoes, drinks, or other gear with easy access. 

Again, we love Osprey’s magnetic hydration tubing, and their new reservoir design makes filling and emptying a breeze.

Pros:

• Larger pack with large compartments for storage
• The external bungee cord makes a great place for extra jackets, shoes, or electrolyte beverages
• A magnetic water tube helps prevent dragging on the ground

Cons:

• Larger and more expensive than other hydration packs we reviewed.