#4 on this list
Hoser
Platypus
The Platypus Hoser is a stripped-down classic that has earned a loyal following among thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers for decades. At less than 4 ounces, it eliminates virtually all unnecessary hardware, eschewing large molded handles, bulky plastic sliders, and quick-disconnect ports in favor of a clean, minimalist design. For anyone counting every fraction of an ounce on a long-distance trail, the Hoser is one of the lightest complete reservoir setups you can buy. Where the Hoser truly excels is water taste. Platypus uses a taste-free polyurethane blend that leaves zero plastic or chemical residue in your water, even when exposed to warm sun over long stretches of trail. The reservoir utilizes a standard 28mm threaded neck, which aligns with popular ultralight squeeze filters like the Sawyer Squeeze. This allows experienced hikers to screw their filter directly onto the reservoir for simple, no-fuss water collection and gravity-filtering workflows. The trade-off for this simplicity is maintenance. The narrow threaded opening makes the Hoser frustrating to fill at shallow wilderness seeps, and drying the bladder out requires patience because you cannot reach inside with a towel. The basic push-pull bite valve also lacks the high flow rate and positive locking mechanisms found on heavier, modern reservoirs. Still, its featherweight reliability and pristine water taste keep it a staple on extended trails. **Highlights** - Ultralight construction weighs less than 4 ounces for a full system - Taste-free film eliminates unpleasant chemical flavors from day one - Standard 28mm threaded opening is directly compatible with popular backcountry water filters - Soft, flexible body rolls up compactly when empty to save space - Simple push-pull valve reduces mechanical failure points **Watch-outs** - Small threaded opening makes filling from shallow creeks and cleaning interior tricky - Air drying takes significantly longer due to narrow neck opening - No quick-disconnect hose feature means the entire tube must be pulled from the pack
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#5 on this list
Reservoir
Cherainti
The Cherainti Reservoir targets budget-conscious hikers who want the utility of a modern hydration system without spending fifty dollars. Frequently highlighted by budget gear guides as an accessible entry point, this bladder provides an impressive array of functional features commonly reserved for premium name brands, including a wide-mouth slide closure, an insulated drinking hose, and an auto-shutoff quick-connect port. In practical use, the Cherainti delivers reliable baseline performance for casual day hikes, local bike rides, and festival outings. The wide-mouth slide opening makes dropping in ice cubes effortless, and the bladder opens wide enough to facilitate quick hand-drying with a cloth. The neoprene sleeve covering the hose offers light thermal resistance, helping prevent the first sip of water from turning scalding in direct sun or freezing on brisk autumn mornings. Where the Cherainti falls short of top-tier offerings is in its material refinement and long-term durability. Reviewers note that the polyurethane film tends to retain a noticeable plastic taste across the first few uses, requiring a thorough baking soda or lemon soak before hitting the trail. The plastic slider and hose connectors also feel more brittle than those from HydraPak or Gregory, meaning users should avoid rough handling. For casual outdoor use on a shoestring budget, however, it gets the job done. **Highlights** - Very affordable price point compared to major brand alternatives - Wide-mouth slide top allows easy ice insertion and towel drying - Insulated hose sleeve prevents the first sip from getting warm in direct sun - Quick-release hose valve prevents leaks when detaching tube for refilling - Soft bite valve includes a protective dust cover **Watch-outs** - Noticeable initial plastic taste requires pre-use soaking and scrubbing - Plastic clips, sliders, and connectors feel less durable over repeated seasons - Thicker seam welds can be stiff and prone to cracking under high pack compression
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Hoser | Reservoir |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3.8 oz | — |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 7 inches | — |
| Closure Type | 28mm threaded screw cap | — |
| Valve Style | Push-pull bite valve | — |
| Approximate Price | $40 | Around $20 |
| Closure Style | — | Slide-top clamp |
| Hose Insulation | — | Neoprene thermal sleeve |
| Disconnect Type | — | Quick-release with auto-shutoff |
| Bite Valve | — | Silicone with protective dust cap |
| Bladder Film | — | Food-grade TPU |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Hoser
- Ultralight footprint under 4 ounces
- Consistently neutral, taste-free polyurethane film
- Standard 28mm threading pairs directly with squeeze filters
- Packs down completely flat when empty
- Small opening makes cleaning and air drying tedious
- Difficult to fill quickly from shallow water sources
- No quick-disconnect feature on the drink tube
Reservoir
- Substantial feature set at a fraction of name-brand costs
- Wide slide-top opening makes filling with ice and cleaning simple
- Included neoprene hose sleeve slows water temperature changes in direct sun
- Quick-release base port allows reservoir removal without rerouting the hose
- Noticeable initial plastic taste requires thorough soaking before use
- Rigid plastic slider and connectors feel brittle compared to premium models
- Stiff perimeter seam welds can wear down under cramped pack loading
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