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carry far

The pack and what goes in it

Bladder

Also: hydration reservoir

A flexible water container carried inside the pack with a drinking tube over the shoulder. Three litres of water is three kilograms, so a full bladder is a meaningful part of the load — and it gets lighter as you walk, which changes the balance.

Related terms

Centre of gravityThe mass-weighted average position of everything in the pack.
LoadThe weight carried, not counting the walker.

Where it comes up

Guides that use this term in context, rather than only defining it.

How to pack a ruck so it stops pulling you backwardsDense items high and against your spine, the reason your shoulders hurt, and what belongs where.
Knee, shin and back pain from rucking: what to change firstThis is not a diagnosis. It is a triage guide: which training and packing variables to remove first, what should settle, and what deserves professional assessment.
Water and food for a longer ruckStart hydrated, carry for the conditions, drink to a tested plan rather than a dare, and practise food before an event makes the choices for you.

More from The pack and what goes in it

RuckRuck plateSternum strapHip beltLoad liftersFrame sheetMOLLECentre of gravity

All 37 terms