I use a Camelback on day rides but the straps have an adverse effect on waterproof garments and I always end up getting soaked. With the harsher weather coming along I was thinking of trying a saddle bag like the Epic designs one, page 99 in STW this month. My pack needs are pretty average I reckon, I am happy to use a water bottle which carries enough for me on a ride so I dont need a bladder carrier, all I carry is the usual stuff, grub, phone, first aid, map, multitool, pump and puncture stuff, chain links, spare mech hanger and a spare garment. Anyone else tried that type of thing?
Tom
Saddle bags are handy as you can just leave them packed and attached. I'm always searching around for bits and bobs when I use a back pack. However, I hate having a water bottle covered in mud/shit which is a bit of a problem, so I tend to end up with the back pack anyway.
I can't say I've noticed too much of an issue with backpacks affecting waterproofing either (based on both walking and biking experience), although the contact area of the straps obviously cuts down on air circulation which can affect condensation levels.
Dare I suggest one of those Wingnut packs that every man and his dog was raving on about 6 months ago? I know its still a backpack, but it sits lower and so may affect waterproofness less? Maybe?
Cheers guys. Perhaps a mix might be best, a reasonable sized wedge pack with tubes tools etc, taking the point on board about flavoured water, a backpack (but now lighter) with bladder, pump and a few sundries. Wingnut looks a bit "unweildy" but I admit I have not tried them.
