Re: Water bottles or bladders?

Bill, the pack sounds like something Karrimor would have made. I've got a Karrimor 'Joe Brown Extendable' in my collection as well as a Karrimor day pack. I've seen similar British climbing packs as you describe, but have yet to snag one. Someday perhaps. Does your pack have a webbing hip belt? I've seen several with metal loops to attach a hip belt, but the metal loops allow for the belt to be removed if you wish.

Back on topic, I've never gotten around to the hydration bladder thing. I don't know why, to me it seems like the one piece of gear I can live without.