I don't think there is a definitive answer on canteens vs hydration systems. Unlike Atty guy, I tend to prefer canteens, retro type that I am. Camteens are simple, easy to improvise, and less "fiddly" than hydration systems. The tube is convenient in open country, but try hiking through brush, or climbing, and it will get shredded within a quarter mile. In really warm country, you are likely to be hiking with at least a gallon of water, so you will need to supplement the H system with some C's anyway...