Apidura Backcountry Hydration Backpack - L/XL
The Apidura Backcountry Hydration Backpack is a lightweight, durable mountain bike hydration backpack with 12 L of roll-top storage and an included 2 L Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder, made for mountain biking and technical rides in remote locations. Available in S/M (460 g) and L/XL (465 g), it is built from breathable 3D mesh and waterproof ripstop nylon, with seam-taped water resistance, a magnetic hose clip and an anatomic on-bike fit.
Why a hydration backpack – and why this one
On long mountain bike rides you want water and kit on your body without a pack that moves, overheats or chafes. The Backcountry Hydration Backpack addresses this:
- Hands-free hydration. The 2 L Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder sits in a dedicated compression sleeve, and a magnetic clip keeps the hose in place on the front for one-handed mouthpiece access and storage.
- Steady flow. The compression wall provides a continuous flow rate, and a security tab helps with in-pack filling, so you can refill without removing the bladder.
- All-day comfort. The endurance on-bike anatomic fit provides all-day, chafe-free comfort, while 3D mesh and anatomically specific airflow management help prevent heat and moisture build-up.
- Stability. Two adjustable sternum straps with custom placement choice and two adjustable side straps give a bespoke fit that conforms to your riding position.
- Quick access storage. A 12 L roll-top compartment, two large rear pockets with angled entrance, stretch mesh pockets and a zippered device pocket large enough for any smartphone keep essentials reachable.
- Visibility. A high-contrast reflective design and an integrated light attachment point enhance visibility in all light conditions.
Who is it for?
- Mountain bikers riding technical trails and remote routes who want on-body storage and water.
- Riders on rides of any length – from short loops to multi-day ultras – who prefer to carry weight on the body.
- Riders who want a stable pack that conforms to their riding position.
Which size? Measure around the fullest part of your chest over your riding gear with arms relaxed. S/M is designed for chest measurements of 70–95 cm and L/XL for 96–125 cm. If you are between sizes, Apidura suggests sizing down.
Key features
Magnetic hydration hose clip
For one-handed mouthpiece accessibility and storage.
In-pack refilling
Optimised for refilling without removing the bladder.
Custom bladder design
With secure roll-top closure, fill markings and quick-click hose connection.
Easy access bladder compartment
With compression wall to provide continuous flow rate and a security tab to facilitate in-pack filling.
Adjustable sternum straps
With custom placement choice for a bespoke fit.
Zippered device pocket
Large enough to accommodate any smartphone.
Reflective graphics
High-contrast reflective design to enhance visibility in all light conditions.
Integrated light attachment point
For increased visibility.
Also: endurance on-bike anatomic fit, two large rear pockets with angled entrance, stretch mesh pockets for adjustable and accessible storage, an internal mesh pocket for improved organisation, and seam-taped water resistance.
Materials & technology
- 210D ripstop nylon – lightweight fabric chosen for its strength-to-weight ratio, carbonate coated for water resistance. PFA- and PFC-free.
- Diamond net mesh – ultralight structural polyester mesh used where vapour transfer and strength-to-weight ratio are important.
- Durable – built to last with bespoke fabrics and tested designs that endure the harshest conditions.
- Heat management – anatomically specific management of airflow and breathability to prevent heat and moisture build-up.
Specifications
| S/M (VBS) | L/XL (VBL) | |
|---|---|---|
| Chest size | 70–95 cm | 96–125 cm |
| Storage | Rear main compartment; 2 rear mesh pockets; mesh stash pocket on shoulder strap; zippered device pocket on shoulder strap; internal mesh pocket; rear water bladder compression sleeve | |
| Closure | Roll-top with quick-release buckle; included Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder closes with gripseal, roll-top and velcro fastening | |
| Attachment | 2 adjustable sternum straps with buckle; 2 adjustable side straps; hose attaches to the front via magnetic clip | |
| Waterproofing | Seam-taped water resistance | |
| Visibility | Reflective graphics; light attachment point | |
Care & maintenance
- Spot clean only – treat stains with concentrated dishwashing liquid. Abrasion is not recommended.
- Bladder cleaning – fill with 30 ml lemon juice, 2 tbsp baking soda and warm water. Rinse the bladder thoroughly before use.
- Bladder storage – hydration bladders and hoses can be stored in a freezer to help prevent the growth of mould and mildew.
Frequently asked questions
What size hydration backpack should I choose?
Put on your regular riding gear and, with arms relaxed, measure around the fullest part of your chest. S/M fits 70–95 cm and L/XL fits 96–125 cm. If you are between sizes, Apidura suggests sizing down.
Is the Backcountry Hydration Backpack compatible with bladders from other brands?
Yes. A Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder (2 L) is included, but the pack is also compatible with other standard hydration bladders, as long as the dimensions of your bladder fit within the dedicated compression sleeve.
Can the Fast-Flow Hydration Bladder be used with vests from other brands?
Yes. It was designed for Apidura vests and backpacks, but it can be used with many third-party hydration vests. Check that the bladder fits comfortably within your existing reservoir sleeve or compartment.
How can I stop water from moving around inside the bladder?
Remove the excess air: fill the bladder, squeeze out as much air as possible and seal it, turn it upside down with the sealed end at the bottom, and suck any remaining air out through the hose.
Can I still access jersey pockets while wearing the Backcountry Hydration Backpack?
Generally, no. The pack prioritises storage capacity, so it extends lower down your back and covers most rear jersey pockets. Taller riders with longer torsos may still reach lower pockets, but Apidura recommends storing essentials directly inside the pack.
About Apidura
Founded in 2013, Apidura designs bikepacking bags for long-distance and ultra-endurance riding, tested by riders on events such as the Transcontinental Race and the Tour Divide. The range is built around three families: the fully waterproof Expedition series for touring and all-weather bikepacking, the lightweight Racing series for ultra-distance racing, and the rugged Backcountry series for off-road trails.
Every Apidura product comes with a 3-year producer guarantee from the date of purchase, covering the entire product. After that, Apidura can support at-home repair or recommend a trusted repairer.
