CamelBak Rim Runner Hydration Pack - 3L

Camelbak has been making this pack for years. For the longest time, this was my pack of choice for most day-long ventures. It holds an extra layer of clothes, food for a day, and a very large amount of water (3L). That being said, I rarely use it anymore. As I've gained outdoor experience, I have found that I rarely need to haul 3 liters of water anywhere. I usually get through any day with a 1-liter platypus (refilling at water sources). And, unlike most "bladder compatible" packs, this pack becomes a very poor choice when used without the bladder (or even a smaller bladder). It has a large insulated compartment with a huge zipper. This compartment is half of the pack's weight and serves no other function than to hold a 3-liter bladder. You can put a smaller bladder or only partially fill your 3-liter bladder, but you still have all of this unused space and pack material you're lugging around. I guess, to sum it up...this is a 3-liter hydration system which functions fairly well as a daypack. I'd much prefer a good daypack which is compatible with whatever hydration system I choose to use that day.

I was looking for something to hold water and gear for daily hikes.. Rim Runner is perfect. It holds my survival gear, water, camera, maps, and chow for casual hikes through the mountains. Although I have had it for only a month, it has withstood some serious abuse. This is coming from a veteran with plenty of miles on his boots and .mil issue gear.

It is large enough for an overnighter if you are a minimalist; however, it is just right for daily use. I take it with me wherever I go, including driving.

Comfort is not even a question.

I am completely satisfied with the product and the one-on-one recommendation from BackCountry

I've used this pack for 10-12 mile day-hikes and it's been great. Lots of space and pockets to hold everything, comfortable, and just the right amount of water.