I’ve tested multiple running packs over the years, and these are the three I'd recommend in 2026

Once you start running distances of 10k or more, especially outside of organised events where there are usually water stations, you need to start carrying your own liquids, either in a back-mounted bladder or in flasks.

This is when a good running pack or vest becomes essential kit, along with your best trail running shoes and a reliable running watch to keep you on the right track.

Running packs and vests vary enormously in terms of capacity, design, and features, with running vests essentially being a term for very low-profile backpacks contoured to fit extremely snugly to avoid bounce.

Some packs are intended almost purely for hydration, and others are capable of carting loads of gear; much of which is obligatory if you’re doing a remote off-road race or an ultra, and essential when speed hiking or fastpacking, ranging from lightweight waterproof jackets and headtorches right through to food, first-aid kits and even lightweight sleeping bags and shelters.

Choosing the right model can be tricky, but the following are three running packs that have served me well for a range of running adventures, all of which I highly recommend.

Best for short and mid-distance runs

inov8 Racepac 8

This compact vest hugs your body like a lovesick limpet clings to a rock and it’s my running pack of choice when doing mid-distance training sessions and events such as my local favourite race, the 20-mile mixed terrain Grizzly, when all I really need is some water, a portable cup, a few gels and an extra layer in case I do myself a mischief and end up having to stop or limp along at a slow pace.

For fluids, I generally employ a pair of 500ml soft flasks positioned into the front pouches (one loaded with electrolytes and the other straight H2O) and then utilise the rear compartment (which can be used to carry a bladder if you prefer) to stash a baselayer – if conditions are dry – or a waterproof shell, if the forecast is soggy.

There are quick-access pouches on each side, perfect for stashing gels, bars and a collapsible cup. A zip pocket on the right chest takes a phone and has a hook for keeping essentials like car keys or a safety whistle extra safe. If you like to carry poles, there are two ways of attaching them to this vest: vertically on the front or horizontally on the rear.

Available in several sizes, the Racepac has a simple but effective bungee-based tightening system across the chest that keeps everything secure, and the main body of the pack is made with mesh-and-honeycomb-foam, so it’s lightweight, comfortable and extremely breathable.

Best for long runs and ultras

Montane Gecko VP 12+

For a running pack that offers backpack-like carry capacity combined with a vest-esque low profile to minimise movement, the Gecko VP 12+ is a winner, which is why I use it for longer training runs and ultra races, such as the Lakeland 50, during which it did me proud.

Unlike many models, this pack comes with two excellent 500ml soft flasks, which slide into a pair of pouches on the chest. There’s also a compartment complete with a Velcro hook for housing a hydration reservoir (or whatever gear you want to stash in there).

Separate from this hydro pouch is the capacious main compartment, which zips securely shut and easily accommodates all kinds of kit that might save your life if things go belly up (layers, emergency shelters, etc.).

The Gecko 12+ comes with a safety whistle attached to a cord in one of the zip pockets. There are also reflective flourishes on the back to keep you safe. Beneath both flask pouches are two deep pockets with zips, where you can keep a phone and snacks within easy reach.

On top of that, there are various extra compartments for energy gels and bars, and on the rear, bungee straps let you carry wet layers separately to dry them. And, of course, running poles can be secured to the front of the pack.

Constructed from polygiene-treated synthetic materials with mesh elements (for airflow), the unisex Gecko 12 secures tightly around your waist via a Velcro belt, and elasticated sternum straps with hooks that attach to a range of hoops facilitate an extra secure fit.

Best for fastpacking, speed hiking and run-commuting

Rab Veil XP 20

For really big days out, or multiday missions, when you have to cart enough gear for a night out, you need much more carry capacity, and this is where a real running backpack comes in. I love a good fastpacking foray, and in warmer weather, the 20-litre Rab Veil XP is just the right size to carry everything you need for an overnight adventure.

Made with a rain deflecting fabric and boasting taped seams and a roll-and-clip top-opening system, it’s also waterproof (tested to IPX4), so it performs well as a hiking daypack in all conditions, and is also the perfect pack for people who run-commute to work and have to carry quite a bit of stuff, including a full change of clothes for the office.

The Veil has a wide, comfortable, and easily adjustable waist belt that fastens with Velcro, plus an excellent bungee-and-hook support system across the chest to keep the pack tightly in place while you’re in motion, and a top clip to secure the contents.

The 3D mesh back system wicks moisture away, and there are various pockets for keeping items such as a phone and gels within easy reach. Hydration-wise, you can stick a bladder in a back pocket (separate from the sealed main compartment), use soft flasks in dedicated pouches on the harness, or even carry a bottle or two in the side pockets.

Good to know

Running packs come in all shapes and sizes, from body-hugging low-profile vests to larger-capacity backpacks, but when you’re considering the options, there are several core components that really need to feature.

Clearly, you are carrying a pack in order to cart essentials, so make sure it’s big enough to take your core required gear on the inside of the pack – bungee-based expansion straps on the bag are great for stashing wet gear, but avoid depending on them to carry your main kit, because things can get drenched or fall out, and they will wobble around while you run.

Staying hydrated is the single most important thing to do while you run, but liquid is annoyingly heavy, so carrying it efficiently is crucial. Some people prefer soft flasks worn on the front (easy to reach and refill during races, and you can always see how much juice you have left), while others prefer back-mounted hydro bladders, which offer more capacity.

Figure out what works best for you, but bear in mind that your requirements might change depending on the event or challenge you’re taking on and the weather conditions on the day: the best running packs offer both carry options.

No one wants to run for hours with a load that wobbles around and has things dangling off it – pick a running pack with a trim fit that offers really secure fastening systems across the chest and waist. Make sure this is adjustable enough to be comfortable for your body shape (for women, having a chest strap you can tailor to your requirements is obviously an extra important consideration).

Think about the things you will definitely want to have within easy reach during a run – phone, gels, bars, gloves – and make sure there are pockets on the pack that you can access without stopping to take the bag off.

And lastly, if you ever run on roads and shared tracks (and everyone who requires a running pack will find themselves doing this at some point), look for reflective safety features on the back of the pack.