How much water do you need to carry?

The amount of water you need to carry is dependent on many factors and is complex.  The first thing to consider is more is better than less and generally we don’t drink enough.  Learn more here…  How much water should I carry when I ride?

Most of the standard size water bottle cages on bikes will hold a drink bottle between 800ml – 600ml. This is only going to be enough water if you are riding for up to an hour. If riding for longer you will need the option of carrying a large drink bottle in a cargo cage or more than one drink bottle.

The other option is a hydration bladder carried in a backpack or a hip pack. This can give you options of carrying from 1.5L up to 3L of water.

Is carrying a drink bottle on my bike an option?

Most bikes come with screw holes in the bike frame where a water bottle cage can be attached. Some bikes will have one or two mounting places. Smaller bikes, like kids bikes, might not have any screw holes for mounting a bike cage as they are too small for a water bottle to fit.  Squashed triangle frames (modern full suspension mountain bikes) also struggle with room to get a bottle in and out of a cage.

There are straps/clamps on the market that secure a water cage or a cargo cage to your bike frame or front fork – removing the need for screwing and thus offering more flexibility on where you can mount your cage and the number of cages on your bike. This may be important if touring, bike packing and/or riding long distances.

Another alternative for carrying a water bottle or bottles is a hip pack.  Relatively  new to the market, hip packs sit across the hips which is a great location, for women in particular, to carry extra gear.  There are many different designs in hip packs giving you choice.  A pack which has been designed specifically for carrying water will allow you to carry up to 2 water bottles and/or a 1.5L bladder.

Ease of access to my water?

Do you want to have easy and regular access to your water? A hydration bladder carried in a backpack or a hip pack means that you can ride and drink small amounts more regularly. A drink bottle generally will require you to stop and have a drink so as a rule you drink less often.

Kids and Hydration

Kids often hydrate better than adults. They take in smaller amounts more regularly. Over time this adds up to a good amount of water, so you need to make sure they have regular access to plenty of water. Generally when they want/need water they need it immediately not when you reach the next stop where water is available. A hydration bladder is a very successful solution to making sure kids have access to plenty of water regularly.

MAKE YOUR PURCHASE A SUCCESS…

Keep your bladder clean.

For hygiene and to help your bladder last a long time you need to take care of your bladder – clean it and make sure it is dry when not in use.  Purchase a Hydration Bladder Cleaning Kit 

What is the right hydration solution for you?  Your success is different to others… use our stories and support, get the right solution