MTB backpack Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20: Robust hydration pack in test - Enduro tip!
Stefan Frey
· 05.03.2026
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In our opinion, calling the H.A.W.G. from Camelbak a classic is absolutely legitimate, as the spacious hydration pack has been part of the American company's range since 1996 - in a constantly revised and improved form, of course. The largest H.A.W.G. to date is now available in a 20-litre version.
And this time Camelbak is going all out. You almost need a manual for all the features and functions. So let's get started: Robust Cordura protects the H.A.W.G. 20 in tough everyday biking conditions, the new back system has a height adjustment and very wide hip wings, which are equipped with large cargo pockets.
The 3-litre hydration bladder with practical magnetic clip for the drinking tube is available ex works from Camelbak - which seems reasonable at a price of around 200 euros. The rucksack is available from Mountain time currently reduced.
We tested these 9 mountain bike backpacks:
- Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 >> available here
- Deuter Compact 14+3 >> available here
- Evoc Stage 18 >> available here
- Osprey Raptor 14 >> available here
- Rockrider MTB 12 litre hydration pack >> available here
- Scott Trail Rocket 20 >> available here
- Tatonka Bike Backpack MTB 14 >> available here
- Thule Rail eMTB 18L >> available here
- Vaude Trailcontrol 20+ >> available here
Large main compartment with a small weakness in the detail
The fully opening main compartment has numerous compartments for tools and other items. The hydration compartment can also hold a protector (49.99 euros) or a spare battery. A padded goggle compartment with cleaning cloth, front compartment for a change of clothes and various gear loops round off the features - the straps for these are hidden in the base of the rucksack.
On top of this, there is an integrated Recco system that can guide rescuers to you in the event of an accident. What is missing, however, is a rain cover. The fabric of the H.A.W.G. 20 is not waterproof.
Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20 - Info & Price
- Price199,99 Euro >> at Mountain friends, Mountain time or Decathlon
- Weight: 1182 gram / 235 gram hydration bladder
- Back systemContact back with structured padding, adjustable in length
- Equipment: hydration bladder, Recco system, Cordura fabric, adjustable back length, protector-compatible (49.99 euros), battery compartment, goggle compartment, magnetic clip for tube
- Hydration bladder: yes / 3 litres
- Volume measured / specified: 20,5 / 20 litres
Handling and packing
The Camelbak has earned high praise for its waterproof yet smooth-running zips, whose grippers are also covered with shrink tubing and feel really good in the hand. The large pockets on the hip wings can also be opened easily during the ride. The material is extremely robust and can easily withstand rough handling.
Whether you need an extra compartment for every item is a matter of taste - but if you do, then the H.A.W.G. 20 is made for it. Even with our generous standard load, there are still free storage compartments.
The separate hydration bladder compartment, which is easy to use and also offers space for a back protector, is great. Another great feature is the padded goggle compartment, which can also be used to safely store goggles - the developers have even thought of a cleaning cloth for the windscreen. The large main compartment folds out completely to provide maximum organisation.
With so much praise, however, there is also some criticism: in order to access the storage compartments in the main compartment, we first had to remove the loosely stowed load - which is impractical. A full face can only be attached to the compression straps provided with difficulty. The strap adjusters run a little tight, and the clips on the protector straps are secured but are awkward to use - the opening for stowing the straps is also far too narrow, so it's better to leave them hanging from the eyelets instead of stowing them in the bottom of the backpack.
Back system and carrying comfort
One of the great strengths of the Camelbak is its adjustable back system, which can be easily adjusted to the rider's size using the Velcro fastener. This means that the wide hip belt always sits where it should and ensures a perfect fit above the iliac crest.
In combination with the robust outer fabric, the Camelbak clings to the bull like a rodeo cowboy: No matter how bumpy the terrain or how crazy the trail gets, the H.A.W.G. sits bombproof and is therefore a real recommendation for enduro rides or freeride adventures.
The downside of the tough fit is the slightly poorer ventilation on the uphill. The only slightly structured back padding hardly allows any airflow through, and the heat builds up more under the wide hip belt than with other models. However, this is a disadvantage that you are probably happy to accept on the already sweat-inducing search for hidden trail treasures.
Rating & Conclusion - Camelbak H.A.W.G. 20
| Category | Grade |
| Carrying system (40 %) | 2,0 |
| Handling (30 %) | 2,3 |
| Weight (15 %) | 3,0 |
| Equipment (15 %) | 1,0 |
| BIKE NOTE | 2,1 |
Conclusion
Robust daypack for enduro and freeride use with plenty of features and well thought-out compartmentalisation. Even extensive equipment can be stored here in a sensible and organised way.
Thanks to the adjustable back and the wide hip wings, the Camelbak sits as firmly on your back as a rodeo cowboy on a bull. No matter how bumpy the terrain - nothing wobbles here!
There are slight compromises in terms of weight and ventilation. No rain cover included, but the material is highly water-repellent.
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Stefan Frey
Editor
