I've been recommending the Camelbak Pixie hydration pack as one of my top gift suggestions for walking women for the past few years. But to my displeasure, Camelbak discontinued the model. You can still find it here and there from online retailers, but it is an endangered species. While my personal one is in great shape and will serve me for many more years, what can I recommend for my friends and readers? The Pixie was so perfect that four of my walking buddies bought them. We had to embroider our names on them to tell them apart. Is there another hydration pack that could attract that loyalty?

The hunt was on. I spent several sessions in my local outdoors retailer going through their wares. What I wanted was what we love in the Pixie. It is made for women or those with short torsos so your hydration pack isn't hanging over your backside. It has simple straps, which can be worn as a sling bag or a backpack. No current model has that feature. The hydration capacity is 35 oz. which is just enough for a 2-4 hour walk without refilling. The cargo capacity is just right, with a compartment big enough to stuff a light jacket into and another compartment for other essentials.

Ultimately, my hunt was not quite successful. I found several good models that could work, but none that is a true replacement for the Pixie. Get a Pixie while they last!
Best Hydration Packs for Walking Women
Photo © Wendy Bumgardner 2005