I would point out that if you are using a GOOD lexan bottle, like a Nalgene (not the lab bottles, though), you can poor in water from the pot it was boil in directly to the bottle. Screw on the cap, and it will vacumme seal. No harder to get the cap off than it is for a commercial water bottle, and I've had those stored for several months- tasted fine.

this happened to me after even less use, but it was fixed forever by putting a large nylon cable tie around the tube where it attaches to the bag.

We unplug our hose from the bag after use to let it dry out with the CamelBak bag hanger. My wife is very concerned about mildew growing on wet things.

I'm still waiting for the perfect technology. Many new items improve on most aspects of a predecesor, but often introduce a new problem. Widespread use of automobiles eliminated piles of horse manure and related public health problems. Introduced different forms of polution and dependence on foreign oil <img src="/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Hydration systems are better than canteens or bottles in lots of ways. One drawback not mentioned thus far is knowning how much liquid one has consumed. While the ease of drinking tends to increase consumption, because the bladder is hidden away, out of sight, there's not a lot of feedback as to the actual volume consumed. (Of course, until you suck and nothing comes out <img src="/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> )

This is a particular challenge for those going into a new environment, e.g., from sea level to the mountains of NE New Mexico. Plan to drink more, but how to know when you're on plan?

/Neal

Bingo! Something about that silver ion must be the ticket to keeping the water tasting "normal". In any case, I prefer the camelback to the bottles, although I always have at least one full, unopened bottle in the motherlode, which kinda solves the gauging problems too.

One word: Slosh.

Also of note: The military issue CamelBaks are of considerably higher quality. They cost a bit more but the hose is insulated, they have web mounting points for add-ons, they are of heavier nylon, and many can hold multiple bladders. I have one that holds two 3 liter bladders. They also connect directly to your NBC mask (not that many people care).