Buzz
For years, staying hydrated has been a challenge for me. Working from home without set lunch breaks or coworkers to remind me to drink, I can easily go hours or even entire days without a sip of water.
The older I get, the more obvious my body's signals of dehydration have become. The headaches and muscle cramps pushed me to try anything to ensure I drink enough water. I ended up revisiting the iconic water bottle from my high school days, the trusty CamelBak.
Like most people, I've experimented with every possible type of beverage container to hit my daily water goal. From glass and metal bottles, to both large and small, stylish and sporty bottles, even ones I never use but can't part with, I've tried them all. I've used trendy giant metal bottles claiming to keep beverages icy cold for hours — yet on a typical workday, I end up drinking less water with a large 40-ounce bottle in front of me.
While working from home, I realized I actually prefer a smaller plastic bottle. It's easy to keep within reach, helps me finish it off, and keeps my water at a refreshing temperature without being too cold.
On a recent visit back home, I reminisced about my teenage years and suddenly recalled how popular CamelBaks were back then. I distinctly remember the cool kids carrying them in school hallways, biting on the straw during class. Much like today's Stanley, they were just as much a style statement as they were a practical water container. I realized that this might be the water bottle I've been searching for.
I headed to Amazon and found those same bottles in a range of beautiful colors. I’m not sure how much they cost back in 2009, but in 2024, the price of about $14 was perfect. After some thought, I chose the light blue-green color called “Coastal” — it reminded me of sea glass and I couldn't wait to drink from it.
The bottle is soft and easy to hold — not too big, and available in sizes from 20 to 32 ounces, so I can carry it by its handle with just one finger. The straw cap is made of silicone and offers a tactile experience that the hard plastic straws of Stanleys and Hydro Flasks can’t match. Plus, you can toss it in your bag with abandon since it won’t leak.
Through therapy, I’ve learned to embrace gifting myself things — both meaningful and indulgent — that I didn’t have as a child. While the CamelBak wasn’t exactly a top item on my childhood wishlist, it symbolized an “in crowd” I always felt left out of. Regardless, this bottle has been the one that’s helped me drink more water than any other I’ve owned. Give it a try yourself.
Highly rated feedback:
"Lost my old one (I’ve gone through a few over the years) and picked the dark teal color because everyone else in the family has a warm color, so no more stealing my bottle lol! They DON’T leak, they fit in cup holders on cars and on backpacks, and they are rugged. I have NEVER had to throw one away because it broke (and all the small pieces can be replaced, of course). No, they get lost or commandeered." —Nandini Terrazas
"This is my favorite water bottle to take to the gym. It holds a good amount of water and is easy to clean, plus offering so many color choices." —Candy
"Love this brand and this bottle. I use it at work every day, and it doesn’t spill even when I drop it. Holds plenty of water for me. And easy to sip. Would recommend this product to anyone!" —Andrea Gurley
