CamelBak Cloud Walker 18 Hiking Hydration Pack, 70oz

I think this backpack is great! However, I cannot give it a full 5 stars because of the following reasons.Let's go over the pros:1) Improvement on the previous generation where a) the side pockets were difficult to access; b) the hydration pocket was too tight of a fit; c) includes a removable waist strap; and d) more storage capacity2) rip-stop fabric3) mesh back padding with stiffener4) clean appearanceAs for the cons:1) this pack weighs more than its predecessor but not by much2) right hand bias for hydration tube clamp (doesn't have one on the left) -- oddly, the friction clamp is permanently affixed to the chest strap3) this pack rides a bit high and depending on your body type and perhaps even posture, it may dig into the back of your neck (I would recommend trying this pack on with some weight inside before keeping it/returning it)Neutral points:1) the straps could be better, they're still comfortable (I had about 15 pounds of water + equipment in the pack and it wasn't an issue) -- I think the straps are stiffer compared with the competition2) the compression straps on the top are great but wish there were some on the bottom (allow to cinch down closer to your body)3) would be nice to have the stiffener be removable (or have the stiff area close to the neck cut lower)4) would be nice if backpack companies continued to use the 1 inch straps so users can attach/mount other equipment that utilize the 1 inch webbing.To give this 5 stars would mean this pack is perfect, but it's not. The price point is quite high and when comparing with Osprey (I'd give the Osprey Hikelite 18 an edge due to better comfort from straps; however, the Hikelite is heavier) -- when comparing with REI's Flash 18 (the Flash lighter and you can insert your own cushion and stiffner; this price is significantly cheaper) -- and when comparing with the Gregory Nano 18 (the Nano 18 also has a better should strap)Notes:- Made in the Philippines- This is for 85oz not 70oz pack*I will continue to use this pack and provide updates if necessary.Overall, I would recommend this pack. So far it's great for light to mild outdoor activities. I also would think this would be great for festivals (if not prohibited by event rules).Thanks for reading my review.- T. Ho

I ordered this pack to replace an older daypack. Mostly needs it to carry water for short hikes and travel. Love the clean look of this pack, that it comes with the bladder, and it’s a great size size but am returning it as there is only 1 small outer pocket and no other interior organizers. Also it’s a little on the heavy side for the capacity of 15L.

The media could not be loaded.  Our family likes to hike and we've recently started doing longer, more challenging hikes with our kids. We live in Arizona where the temperatures are pretty extreme and change quickly with altitude. I ordered this camelbak for my 13 year old son. I wanted something that would hold a lot of water but that wouldn't be too heavy for him to carry for 5+ miles. As with any of the water reservoir backpacks, it does need to be cleaned prior to the first use and after each use to prevent gunk from growing in them. If I have any complaints at all, it's the cleaning steps, but since that applies to all hydration packs, I am not going to knock this one for being what it is.The first clean was challenging because that straw tube was attached to the bag TIGHT. I ended up soaking it in hot water for 10 minutes to soften it and that worked, even though it did still require some force. The water bladder doesn't seem like it would hold a lot of water but once you start filling it up you quickly realize it can hold a lot. If you need more, you can carry water bottles in the 2 side pockets as well. The suction works great and you can easily control the flow of water with how much pressure you put on the suction tip. We didn't experience any leaks at all, which is probably thanks to the tight attachments I was complaining about.Aside from holding water, the backpack holds a lot of snacks and has loops on the back for hiking poles, plenty of places to attach carabiners, clothing, and anything else you might need on a day hike.The post-hike clean takes some work in that I do have to soak the straw attachment in hot water to get it off and it takes a long time to fully dry out. I clean the bladder then prop it open on top of a glass or spatula handle in my drying rack so that air can circulate better. I am finding that I have to leave it out for a full day if I want it to air dry. I avoid towel drying because I don't want lint to get inside it.Overall, I am really thankful to have this and in Arizona it's not an exaggeration to say it's a lifesaver. I haven't been disappointed with any of my Camelbaks and I have one that's still going after 10+ years.

Camelbaks are useful for hiking as they allow the wearer to carry water hands-free and easily access it through a straw while on the move. I don't know about you but I constantly forget to drink water when I'm out and that's usually because you have to stop, fish out the bottle, drink, and put it back. This eliminates the need to stop and reach for a water bottle, saving time and improving hydration during a hike. Additionally, this bag has additional storage space for essentials like food, first-aid kits, and extra clothing layers or food/snacks. If you are using it while commuting/biking, it's also a great way keep on top of the water intake.The 18 holds 1.5L which is enough for me and my husband on a hike.

This is a solid compact hydration pack.- Nice materials and design.- Compact and lightweight.- Works as intended.Solid hydration pack for the hiker, day trip, or runner.