Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir

Last updated: September 9, 2019


Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir

We looked at the top Hydration Systems and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Hydration System you should buy.

Product Details

In our analysis of 70 expert reviews, the Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir placed 13th when we looked at the top 15 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

The Platypus Big Zip Water Reservoir for Hydration Backpacks offers an evolution in hands-free, taste-free hydration. Available in two styles: The EVO with Fast Flow Valve and the Standard Valve. The Fast Flow Valve delivers an extremely high flow rate (50% more than the Standard Valve), self-sealing HyFLO bite valve, large 5/16-inch drink tube, simple one-handed filling, easy cleaning, fast drying, quick access drink tube disconnect, and leak-proof shutoff valve, while the Standard Valve features a 1/4-inch drink tube, easy cleaning, and a low profile design. The Big Zip is a top pick for hikers, backpackers, travelers and mountain bikers for their hydration backpacks. This hydration reservoir features embedded silver-ion to protect clean water from mold and bacteria. All materials are certified food-grade, BPA-, BPS-, phthalate-free and taste-free for a clean taste. The Platypus Big Zip+ is available in 3 sizes: the 1.5-Liter measures 8.5 x 13 inches and weighs 5.6 ounces; the 2.0-Liter measures 8.7 x 15 inches and weighs 6 ounces, and the 3.0-Liter measures 9 x 17.2 inches and weighs 6.5 ounces. Manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty. Made in the USA.

Our Expert Consultant

Vicki Liston 
Home Improvement Expert

Vicki Liston writes, produces, and narrates “On The Fly…DIY,” an award-winning home improvement and DIY show of unique project tutorials for the casual DIY’er.

Home improvement and all things DIY have been Liston’s passion since she bought her first house in 2007 and she started making video blogs in 2014. She’s performed hundreds of DIY projects, from small ones to major, wall-smashing renovations and can teach you how to make a trendy DIY barn door for cheap. The proceeds earned from “On The Fly…DIY” are donated to no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations.

Expert Reviews


What reviewers liked

The big bite valve and wider tube used with the Platypus Big Zip offers the best rate of water flow and is comfortable to drink from. It's easy to load into a bag but has a wider profile.
The large opening to the reservoir also means it is easy to get in at to clean. I only ever put water in my reservoir so a rinse does the trick after use.
The bite valve proved to be sufficiently reliable in terms of water flow and leak-proofing capabilities. The Hilo self-sealing bite valve features a unique design that completely shuts off water to prevent any leaks.
This bladder is extremely light and weigh less a pound which means it is easy to pack and carry with you
This platypus bladder has an ergonomically designed mouthpiece that feels natural when it's in your mouth
Divided compartments which make for less sloshing whilst on the move
The reservoir has a wide slide closure at the top which allows easy refilling, cleaning and draining.

What reviewers didn't like

It still feels light in your backpack. It has a wider profile that makes it a little harder to pack in narrow backpacks, but we learned that it was only super tiny running packs that the 3-L capacity did not work in.
No protective cover on the bite valve to protect from dirt
Flimsy handle on the clip slide closure.
No flip-top opening
One concern that affected a small percentage of users was the durability of its construction. One user reported that they experienced splitting seams after just a few uses which can, undoubtedly pose a concern
Horizontal orientation of the hose attachment is not compatible with other quick release systems without a connector
Unfortunately, the valve does not come with a cover for protection against the dirt – the cover is sold separately.
View our Hydration System buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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