Keeping cool during the festival season starts with staying hydrated. We’ve put together a list of the top hydration packs on the market.
Whether you’re attending a festival during the height of the season when temperatures can be sweltering or are planning to dance during the chillier months of the year, one truth is that you need to keep yourself hydrated. While trips to the nearest bar or vendor might be an option for some, those who want to keep their place in the crowd have opted for a more convenient option: bringing a hydration pack along with them.
While the early days of hydration packs saw those created for outdoor lifestyle enthusiasts repurposed for the rave, recent years have brought forth plenty of innovation. Brands like RaveRunner, Lunchbox, and Sojourner have delivered modified looks perfect for any festival attendee, while industry stalwarts like Camelbak continue to bring multi-use options to the table.
Read on to discover which hydration packs are topping our list this year. Don’t forget to keep the security rules of what festivals you’re attending in mind, and don’t forget to pick up a pair of earplugs too!
Top Festival Hydration Pack Picks for 2025
RageRunner Dual Chamber Anti Theft Hydropacks by RaveRunner
RaveRunner continues its reign at the top of our list of hydration pack picks this year with its RageRunner Dual Chamber Anti Theft Hydropack. While there are other designs throughout their site, the RageRunner stood out for its flashy “Claw” looks in blue and pink that pair nicely with its high-quality materials and anti-theft features. Add in the fact that you have not one but two chambers for you to store water or other liquids, and you’ll find yourself in the crowd or exploring the festival grounds for even longer without needing to refuel.
Beyond having two chambers for all your hydration needs, the RageRunner offers RaveRunner’s signature elements that thousands have come to love. This includes inverted zippers and slash-proof, ripstop nylon for anti-theft measures, as well as multiple pockets and compartments to store all your essentials, and add-ons like the solar charger, UnderGlow Disco Ball, and EL Wire loops. Additionally, while the Claw looks are great for Lost Lands, there’s also a Third Eye look for those who want to show off their trippy side.
Pictured: Claw RageRunner by RaveRunner – $98.99 via RaveRunner.co
Lunchbox Hydration Pack
If you’ve been to a festival over the past few years, there’s no doubt you’ve seen a Lunchbox on someone’s back when walking through the crowd. It seems like these anti theft bags have been everywhere, and for good reason as they’re one of the best you can rock at any show. Each Lunchbox features their signature quick refill system with side pocket access, six interior pockets for organization, elastic mesh shoulder strap pockets so you don’t lose your sunglasses, and cloud mesh material on the back and shoulder straps for added comfort.
These packs are available in black, white, and clear, with our pick being the stylish black one to fit the “industry” vibe. That said, you can always modify these two your liking with EL wire loops and interchangeable skins that feature cool designs. Additionally, Lunchbox’s hydration packs are all compliant with Insomniac’s festival policies, so you can rest assured knowing there won’t be any issues at security.
Pictured: 2024 Lunchbox Hydration Pack – $109 via LunchboxPacks.com
Camelbak M.U.L.E.
The Camelbak M.U.L.E. is the perfect hydration pack for those who plan to leave their hotel and campground to spend the entire day and night at a festival. This pack fits 100oz of water in its bladder and features a stability belt, ventilated harness, and adjustable sternum strap, making it comfortable to wear when traveling from stage to stage.
While the Camelbak M.U.L.E. might be devoid of any anti-theft features, its straps make it more difficult for a nefarious person to zip open than most others on the market. This bag is best for festivals where you’ll need extra storage room and plenty of water to get you through those hot summer days, so don’t sleep on this pick!
Pictured: CamelBak M.U.L.E. Hydration Backpack – $115 via Amazon
Sojourner Medium Hydration Pack
Sojourner has returned once again, but this time around we’ve got our eyes on the Clear Transparent bag. As venues continue to restrict what types of bags you can bring in, this option is one of the most cost effective for anyone who wants to make sure they’re hydrated and have plenty of room to store their festival essentials. The two liter bladder is quick and easy to fill, and there are multiple pockets that will fit everything from your wallet and keys to fans and more.
Other color options are available for those who want a more stylish look, and all have the same low-profile athletic cut, comfort-stitched straps, and easy zipper pulls. The only thing missing are anti-theft measures that others bring along with them.
Pictured: Sojourner Medium Hydration Pack – 2L Water Bladder – Clear Transparent – $44.99 via Sojournerbags.com
Camelbak Lobo
The Camelbak Lobo rounds out our list this year and is a quality option for anyone who wants to use their festival hydration pack as an everyday hiking pack as well. The two-liter reservoir won’t feel heavy at all with its back panel support, and you won’t have to worry about the drinking tube bouncing around with its magnetic holder. This bag is also sure to meet most security standards with its limited number of pockets, but keep in mind it has less storage space than the larger MULE.
While the Camelbak Lobo might not be the flashiest on the list, with limited color options available, it gets the job done and will last you for years to come.
Pictured: CamelBak Lobo Hydration Pack – $94.65 via Amazon
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