Grey Ghost Gear has been expanding its offerings in the backpack market — check out our previous in-depth review of the Gypsy pack, for example. Most recently, GGG has released a new small pack for those who require a hydration aspect to their every-day carry setup. They call it simply the T.Q. Hydration Pack. A press release explains, “If you plan on going for a run that doesn't require a fully loaded ruck, then smaller is most certainly better. However, most hydration bags are only designed to hold your bladder, maybe some trail mix and that's it. If you've ever had to stuff your keys or wallet in your socks, this one goes out to you!”

While the T.Q. abbreviation might have you thinking about tourniquets, it actually stands for Thirst Quencher. Available in 3 different urban-friendly two-tone colorways as well as a solid coyote brown option, this pack is designed to blend into urban environments without looking excessively tactical. It's manufactured using a proprietary diamond pattern Grey Ghost Ripstop material and LiteLok fabric. The company says this yields a 30% weight reduction from regular 500D Cordura nylon while providing water-resistance and lower visibility in low light environments.

The T.Q.'s main compartment has a sleeve for your 3L hydration bladder, with a drinking tube port and elastic bands on each shoulder strap for securing the tube. This compartment also has room for a light jacket or change of clothes, as well as a zippered pouch for smaller items.

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The next pocket serves as an admin pouch for your flashlight, pen, knife, keys, and other small essentials. Two adjustable side straps allow you to compress the contents of this pocket as well as the main compartment, so they don't bounce and shift as you hike or jog.

The front pouch offers quick access to slim items such as a smartphone, mini first aid kit, or notebook. Two loops on the front of this pouch offer attachment points for identification lights or carabiners. Finally, there's a concealed bottom pocket with a stowable rain cover — a useful feature to protect your gear from getting soaked by unpredictable weather conditions.

The TQ Hydration Pack is available in Black Diamond/Orange Heather, Black Diamond/Black Heather, Black Diamond/Grey Heather, and Coyote Brown. Total volume is 594ci, which is just under 10 liters. MSRP is $110. For more information, go to GreyGhostGear.com.

Written by Patrick McCarthy