CamelBak 2016 Rim Runner 22 Hydration Pack

I got this pack as a hiking-oriented supplement to my long used and abused M.U.L.E. model in preparation for a hike intensive trip to New Zealand. It worked out great on the trails, but also great because - since I did not take my laptop along, as this was not a work trip - I used it as my carry-on instead of a bigger, bulkier computer backpack. It worked great for both.I was not sure I would like the straps that go around and compress the backpack because you have to unclip them to open the compartments, but I see their use because they work easily and they help to compress any compressible items in your pack, such as a down vest or jacket. It also sort of keeps the pack at an even width from top to bottom. For a paranoid type like myself, I like the extra security for the airports and even on hikes, since on hikes I often put my wallet and phone in the pack to clear up my pockets.I often think it could use another pocket with a soft liner for a phone or camera, but I fear that would take away from the simplicity and then the straps might start getting annoying. This newer model (admittedly, I think these features have been around for a few generations now) has a set of drying arms built in and a quick-release hose-from-body button, which makes hydration pack removal and drying a little easier.My day hike setup was: waterproof pants, jacket, and pack cover in the main pocket along with a down vest or synthetic jacket depending on weather. Also a sunglasses case. Other pocket held GPS, wallet, keys, phone, flashlight, binoculars, batteries. 3l of water. This kept it light and fairly thin, with plenty of room to grow when necessary.My carry-on bag setup included pillow, pouch with contacts, Tylenol, mask, earplugs, etc. All the electronics I mentioned before, plus a few more and a bunch of cables, a kindle, room to stuff a jacket and a couple of snacks. You could cram a 13-15" laptop in here, but it won't be easily accessible and you're sort of packing it in at that point.Bag seems plenty durable and I found it to be a great volume for my needs.

I love this pack. I spent time in the Marines with the basic, pretty much bladder-only off brand hydration pack, and have always liked the concept of carrying your water on your back. Since then, my girlfriend and I have taken up hiking and we were struggling to find a way to bring water and gear with us when we go. I stayed away from these because of the price, but decided one day after hiking with two water bottles, two hoodies, and snacks in my pocket along with phones, keys, etc. that there had to be an easier way to do it.-The bladder holds 3L, which is just under a gallon of water. We usually buy a cold gallon at Wawa (look it up if you aren't from the northeast, it's amazing) and fill it before we leave. I couldn't find a solid answer as to whether or not the bladder compartment is insulated, but the water has stayed cold throughout entire day hikes, sometimes as long as 5 hours.-Between the two of us I am the pack mule, which is just as well because we can fit both our hoodies, her sweatpants, two light windbreakers, and extra socks in the main compartment with some room to spare. In the outside pocket, we keep our phones, a charging pack, snacks, keys, a folding knife, flashlight, a couple bandanas, and a small first aid kit, also with some room to spare. As far as waist straps go, to me they are useless on a pack this small, so I removed it the day I got it and they remain in the bottom of the pack.-Though the pack is not waterproof, it is pretty resistant to water. On a recent trip to Glenn Onoko falls, we were walking through water and standing under waterfalls, and the contents remained dry. I also take this pack kayaking and strap it to the front and it keeps the contents just as dry.-Cleaning it is very easy as well. everything comes apart nicely, and the drying arms are great for holding it open. The bladder is pretty resistant to bacteria and smells. There have been times I've left it half full in the backseat of my truck for days before remembering to clean/dry it, and the only smell coming off it is the smell of the bladder material.Overall, I love this pack. It has quickly become a necessity on day trips. I have abused this bag in it's uses, and I have no reason to believe it wouldn't last years.

The last camelbak I bought was in 2004. I've been using it for 12 years. My wife finally convinced me it was time to retire it so I got this. I wanted something that was light for my day hikes, but also big enough to carry small amounts of gear if I wanted to do a quick overnighter. I drink so much water, so the 3L bladder was a must.Pros:- 3L Bladder for when I need to carry more water- Enough space to carry everything I need for a day hike- Front top zipper has compartments to organize all my smaller items and electronics- The pack is very light, half the weight of my old oneCon:- The pack feels fragile, This could be due to it's weight, but I don't think this will last me another 12 years. I'm not rough with my equipment anyway so I still expect a few good years out of itOverall I'm still mourning the loss of my last pack but I'm very happy with the Rim Runner. It's comfortable to wear and I can tell it was well thought out. It's a good size to be versatile enough that I can use it for a lot of different activities or even when I travel.

I like this backpack. It has enough space for everything a day hike needs. My only complaint is the main compartment is hard to grab things quickly. It definitely takes some planning for things that need to be grabbed quickly. The water bottle side holders have a cool sinch stap to put snakes an things in. All and all a really good day trip bag!

Seems like an excellent pack. I liked the pack when I received it, but found that it was just a bit too small for my needs due to all ofthe compartments and pockets. This is not a bad thing. I just needed less compartmentalization and a bit more room.I'm giving it three stars only because it didn't fit my particular needs. You may be perfectly happy with it.