Gregory  Nano 22 H2O Hydration Pack - Plus Size

I received this product for free from the REI Trailblazers sampling program in exchange for my honest review. Please note the product I received was not the Nano 22 but instead the Nano 18. Great pack for day hikes, running errands, or short bike trips. I have used the Gregory Nano 18 H2O on 6 occasions and have not been disappointed. It is comfortable, with a convenient and large bladder, and tons of room for such a “small” pack. Before trying it out on the trail I used the pack to for 2 trips to the dog park - loading it with toys, a water bowl, multiple tennis balls, towels, etc. I wanted to ensure the fit was good before taking it on longer day hikes - it was! - and now have used it on 4 day hikes, the longest one an 8-hour day. Pros - - Large water bladder (3 Liters) is really nice for longer hikes. Having the option to fill it up completely or only halfway for shorter treks is convenient. - The bladder is very easy to clean with a wide mouth, hook at the top to hang it for drying, and a handle. Cleaning my other bladders in the past has been a challenge and if you ever fill it with something other than water the “taste” lingers given cleaning was so difficult. This is not the case with the Nano 18 - it is easy to clean and dry / air out. - The shoulder straps are extremely comfortable. I tend to pack a lot even for short day hikes, and the straps were easily adjusted. Given I have broad shoulders these straps were perfect. I would recommend any potential buyers try the pack on before purchasing if possible, you may be better suited for the plus size even if that is not the typical size you wear or order. - I love the color (red rock I believe) - it’s nice to have the option for something other than black or navy. - The “stuff sack” functionality works well for me as you can really load it up, or for quick/shorter trips tighten the draw cord for a more compact fit. Cons - - Although the Nano does have a hip strap, I would much prefer something a bit wider with more cushioning. This is a personal preference, and given the Nano 18 is meant to be for shorter day trips or hikes, I understand why the strap is the way it is - I just prefer something a little more padded and sturdy. - There is only one side pocket, which seems like an odd design to me. I love having 2 side pockets for extra beverages or to hold my camera equipment, etc. I would recommend this pack for anyone looking for a comfortable hydration pack for short day trips, errands, bike trips, etc. The size of the bladder and ease of cleaning are a huge plus, and the cushioned shoulder straps allow you to carry a lot of weight comfortably.

One of the more spacious hydration packs I have ever used. Similar to many backpacks, I love the "lid pocket" on top for quick to access to small items (car keys, phone, etc.) The main compartment was spacious for snacks, my hammock and hammock straps, first aid kit, extra clothing and room to spare. There is also a small side pocket that is built in for other quick to access items without opening the whole pack. I took the pack on a few mile moderately difficult hike when the outside air temperature was around 86°. The pack wasn't as hot as I expected and allowed for some airflow around my back which was nice. Pack was pretty comfortable and stayed secure climbing over rocks. I am a big fan of the magnetic tube holder that keeps the tube from bouncing around when bending, squatting and jumping. The bladder has a nice built in handle that makes it super easy to fill with water. This was a feature I had not seen before. Only two minor complaints about the pack, but certainly not a deal breaker. 1) I wish the water tube was about 2-3" longer. The way the tube is routed through the pack, around the shoulder strap and fastens on the magnetic clip on the chest strap caused it to lay on the base of my neck. It wasn't to tight or uncomfortable, but a bit annoying. I kept trying to readjust it but never could get 100% comfortable (I'm about 6' tall). Tightening the shoulder straps helped, but made the pack itself more uncomfortable. 2) The filling port on the bladder has about a 2" opening. I wish it was a bit bigger. Going on a hot summer day like I did, I filled my pack with ice water. The smaller lid made it tedious getting ice in the bladder. Overall, very nice hydration pack.

A great hydration pack! Love the size and functionality of this thing; there are tons of cool little pockets to stash whatever you need. I also love the zip compartment for the bladder -- feels very secure! My favorite part is that the straps are completely long enough for those of us who are plus sized, with lots of room to spare. Always been a fan of the Gregory packs and they continue to make great products!

I’ve been day hiking and kayaking with the Nano 18 over the last couple weeks, late August/September. This pack holds keys, phone, rain jacket, snacks and emergency supplies with no problem. I like the hydration bladder for day hikes under 15miles. The bladder holds plenty of water and allows the mouth piece to be secured in accessible locations on the should strap. The bladder can be removed easily for cleaning. It has a quick disconnect and hook so the bladder doesn’t sag inside the pack. The pack is form fitted and is comfortable. Lots of adjustments for the shoulders and chest straps. It can be easily adjusted for light and heavy loads. The pack kept everything inside dry during a light rain. I’ve also used this kayaking and all of my junk inside was dry after a day of paddling! I like everything about this pack.

Yes! A hydration pack with options for larger frames! I’m 6’ tall and 200 lbs. i stay in good shape but have always struggled finding good gear that fits a guy like me. Until now. First of all, this is a very solid, well built pack. I spent 3 days in this pack for the better part of each day and was so happy with how well it held up. Solid fabric and design held up very well against the rocks and pine bark. Airflow kept my back from feeling overheated even in the high 80’s. I really like the simple design. Two pockets (on top and side) make funding essentials easy and the main compartment is ample in the 18 for most day hikes. Aside from the comfortable favorite part is the handle on the water reservoir that makes filling a breeze. Definitely recommend this to anyone!

Great all around hydration pack for day trips. There is a top storage zipper pocket, a separate compartment and clip to hold the water pack (included), large enough main compartment for snacks, lunch and a light jacket with room to spare, there is also side storage for water and small side storage for easy access to electrolytes or candies. There is also a hip belt for support and chest. The only gripe I have is that the chest strap is a weird clip and magnet type, it was easy to attach but a bit of getting used to take off not like an easy clip. Definitely over engineered but very thought out. My bag didnt come with the rope for the front of the backpack but its no big deal. The vented back was definitely a plus!

Leaks everywhere. Filled the water bag to 2l, drove 20 minutes to a trailhead, over a full litre had leaked out into my cars back seat and a pool in the bottom of the backpack. Brand new, hadn’t even used it yet. Leaking through where the tube connects to the bag. Everything inside of my bag including a camera soaked in water. Will be returning asap.

I really love this hydration backpack. It carries the perfect amount of water for my 8 mile hikes. It is so easy to carry and the weight is perfectly distributed. Plenty of room for snacks, medical kit, etc.

I hike at least a few miles every day with my dog. He and I both drink from the hydration system and I love that the bladder is so large, I can carry plenty of water for both of us. I also like that the body of this bag is huge, I can carry everything I feel I need (first aid kit, wet wipes, towel, leash) and have lots of extra space for anything extra I want to bring like a rain jacket etc. There is a small zipper pouch on the lower back that fits my phone/key fob perfectly too which is really handy. What I don't love is that I can't move/adjust where the magnet is that holds the hydration nozzle, the default spot where it has to be is inconvenient for me and every time I move my arm up/too far forward it knocks the nozzle off the magnet and the hose moves back behind my shoulder so it's really useless for me. The other thing that isn't my favorite is that there is no insulation to speak of in the water bladder compartment and living in the hot/humid south means that the bag sweats and the things I have stored in the body of the bag end up getting wet/damp. Overall, I plan to stick with the bag I already had.

Overall I like the pack. I have another of the Gregory plus size line and wanted something smaller for day hikes. I love their bladders ease of use. I was very surprised that the web waist belt was not nearly long enough for a plus size pack. I’m on the smaller end of the plus size range and it barely fits around me. I know Gregory sells wb extenders but if the pack is made and marketed for plus size people, you shouldn’t have to buy an extender to make it fit.