My guest reviewer Seth G has been testing the Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20, 3L Hydration pack. To be honest, it lives up to its acronym: It does Holds A Lotta Water (3L) and Gear (20L). But is it worth it? Here are some things to keep in mind if you are in the market for a bike pack that can handle both hydration and gear.
Features:
- Air Support Pro Back Panel: Lightweight and breathable
- 3D Vent Mesh Harness
- Hip Belt With Cargo
- Helmet Carry
- Integrated Tool Roll (CO2 cartridges, multi‐tool, tire levers, etc)
- Adjustable Sternum Strap
- Impact Protection Ready
- E‐Bike Battery Sleeve
- Stretch Overflow Pocket
- Cargo Compression
- Soft Lined Pocket
- Magnetic Tube Trap™ Management
- Reflectivity
- Light Loop
- Armor Carry
- Additional Reservoir Carry (Up to 6‐liters of water)
- 48 cm x 10 cm x 25 cm
- weight; 1340 g
- Price: £ 179.99.
Pros: What’s good about the Camelbak H.A.W.G.® 20, 3L?
Camelbak knows hydration. The ability to hold a 3L water reservoir is crucial for long rides and all-day adventures. The reservoir itself is easy to fill, spill-proof, and straightforward to use while in motion. The wider screw cap is great to make sure you can get it clean after rides, especially if you don’t want to have anything growing in there.
Having the extra sleeve to add another water reservoir is also great, although I didn’t put this to the test. It would be a lot of weight, but if you need to do it, there is the option.
Comfort. I spent a lot of hours with this pack. Having the air ventilation and breathable mesh is really helpful to keep the air moving. The straps are comfortable, easy to shift for stability and adaptation while on the go. You can use the sternum strap and hip belt for getting the fit right.
Design. Having the pockets made with bikers in mind is great. There really are a lot of options for tools, supplies, and extras. Also, the helmet carry, overflow pocket, and light loop really come in handy.
Durability. This is one of the most durable packs I have tested. It really does come across as being able to handle pretty much anything. I had no concerns with water or mud because of the fabric and it is easy to wipe off.
Versatility. This is not just a bike pack. I used it for multiple days of hiking as well. There were enough options that it made sense just to use this pack instead of having to add another one into the mix.
Cons: What’s not so good about the Camelbak H.A.W.G.® 20, 3L?
The weight. With the durability comes a higher weight. It might not seem like a lot, but it is noticeable when you pick it up. It may be a fair trade for you to carry a bit more for the extra durability. But for some people it may not.
Conclusion: This is a good pack. It is probably not for someone who needs something small for a rain shell or few books on their way to work. However, if you plan on spending time out on the trails and need to carry enough water, food and tools to keep you going all day, you should take a look.
*Seth received the pack free of charge in exchange for an honest review. See Seth G.