No No camelback…you dont need it and if I were running and saw you, Id secretly mock you. But if you like the option of drinking when you need it, hand held, try it. I never thought Id like it but when faced with a race that Id need 2 bottles and I wouldnt use a camelback, I tried it and I loved it! now, I rarely use a waistpack and use a handheld all the time. But, that is just me. Try it and see, but it surprised me…the aid stations should be more than sufficient, though…what race is it?