Top 8 Higher Capacity Waist Packs and Hydration Packs

I am a big fan of Ultimate Direction's water bottles and packs. This pack has two of the excellent water bottles, which have a kicker valve for one-handed opening, closing and drinking. This pack has a good-sized compartment for carrying gear and snacks, with an outer zip compartment for quick access to essentials. Ultimate Direction engineers its waistbands well to securely close and ride without jostling.

The Mountainsmith Kinetic has two side mesh pockets suitable for carrying two water bottles - but they don't come included, so you'll need to provide your favorites. It has a good-sized main pocket, and a separate front pocket with headphone port. It also has a padded pocket for valuables. I love the bungee cord on front for attaching your jacket once you warm up.

The REI Double Shot comes with two 24-oz water bottles carried in foam pockets. The main zippered compartment is big enough for essentials. There are also two flat pockets meant for carrying packs of energy gel or other flat items. I love the shockcord for attaching your jacket when you warm up. The REI water bottles are not my favorite, they are hard plastic (BPA-free) and dishwasher safe.

This dual bottle pack lets you carry two water bottles and has a large cargo pocket for the other essentials. It also has reflective trim for night walking.

The Cloud Walker holds 2 liters of water in its hydration bladder. The waist strap and sternum strap are removable. Large and small zippered cargo compartments let you carry most anything you want along, or lash it to the pack with the built-in bungee cord.

The Flashflo carries 45 oz. of water - as much as in two large water bottles. You sip the water through a tube that hooks to the waistbelt for easy access. The small cargo pocket holds your keys, ID and an energy bar - but not much else. It has reflective stripes.

70 oz. Omega bladder and lots of cargo capacity for longer hikes and walks.

The Kelty Oriole is a big-capacity lumbar pack, complete with a shoulder strap and top-carrying strap if you get tired of wearing the wide waistband. It comes with two water bottles (BPA-free plastic #2) in mesh holders. It has an outer stuff pocket and inner zip and cargo pockets. What's missing? A bungee!