I've got a nice Deuter pack with their trampoline style back, which is great for ventilation but the trouble is that the pack is a bit on the big side for normal local rides. Fine for bigger days out where spare layers etc are necessary, but overkill for an hour or two nipping round the woods.

I prefer hydration packs to bottles and hate seat packs, so I'm looking for something smaller but with something like the trampoline style back – so far I've found one from Vaude but are there any other options worth a look?

Camelbak do smaller belt style packs that hold hydration bags – more designed for runners but they'd keep your back clear.

I looked for ages and couldn't find anything as good as Deuter in a smaller size. I didn't find that vaude though!

hydrapak air scoop race. sits on 4 stumps at the corners which hold the pack about 1 inch off your back.

smallest one that tescos do.was £9 but has rocketed to £11 now. mines still going strong a year later…

I have the small tesco one and it's crap for stopping a sweaty back! Looking to replace it with something that holds it away from your back to allow ventilation, haven't really found much yet.

Check out the Wingnut hydration packs, they sit very low on your back.

small saddle bag and bottle cage, no more sweaty back issues 8) with a backpack you're basically a rambler in disguise, I bet you have red socks and a bobble hat as well don't you 😉