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Camelbak bladder installation?

4.5K views 5 replies 5 participants last post by  lew.45  
#1 ·
I bought a Camelbak Antidote Reservoir Bladder 70 oz size. I must be the dumbest guy in the world because I am not sure about installing it in a vest or backpack. What do you use to hang it inside of the pocket? Do you tie a string or use a small carabiner? Is there something specific to use or do you just improvise? I am taking a tactical carbine class this weekend and they recommend a hydration bladder. Please let me know how you all install and secure them so I do not look like a complete idiot. Thank you in advance,
 
#4 ·
If what you are putting the bladder in is not intended to have one take care in the way you mount it. In most packs that have a bladder in a cavity where other things will be stored, there is some sort of pocket to put the bladder in to protect it from being punctured as well as providing some insulation for your water. Depending on what you plan on putting the bladder in you may want to get a cheap bladder carrier and mount it to the inside of the pocket. At least that is what I would do.
 
#5 ·
I have the Camelbak 70 oz. model. If you hold it upright, there is a small plastic retainer clip right above the circular opening where you fill it.

On most packs with a bladder pouch, there will be some kind of vertical strap at the top that holds it closed. I have a Patagonia and a 5.11 Rush and both of these have a strap. The retention clip slides onto the vertical strap at the top of the pouch.

So what you need to do here is fill the bladder, place it into the hydration pouch in your pack, fasten the strap at the top of the pouch, and then slide the bladder's clip onto the strap.

There are other ways to do this, but I've found that this keeps it tight to your back and relatively stable. Hope this helps.
 
#6 ·
I threaded a plastic wire tie through the inside mesh layer then put the 70 oz camelbak in the internal pouch and slipped the hanger over the wire tie. This seems like it will work fine. Thank you for the suggestions.