Reddit mentions of MSR Dromedary Bag with Fill Handle (2017 Model), 4 Liter

Water is heavy, so you don't really want to carry more than you will need. That said, it really sucks to run out of water. I used a dromedary bag and filled it as needed. Ideally, you would get two to help weight balance on a bike, but it is a lot cheaper to get the same capacity in one bag than two smaller bags.

If you are passing through small towns you can always buy more water, and you can often find public water fountains. If you stay at a campsite, you should be able to get water there.

Few short suggestions (my opinions):

• Don't carry water on your back. Some people like it, but after many long days hunch over on a bike, your back will probably hurt. 2 of my buddies used them on our cross-country tour, and they both developed back problems
  
• Instead, use a dromedary bag. I went with the 6-liter one. Never filled it up all the way, but 2 liters in a 6-liter bag is easier to pack in a pannier or bungee on a rack than 2 liters in a 2-liter bag.
  
• Most regions across the US, you will always find places to fill up while biking. The time I found my 6-liter bag most useful was stealth camping. Having a surplus of water to cook and clean with, as well as left-over water for the morning was pretty convenient.

• Tire Irons
  
• Spare tube
  
• pump
  Tools - wrenches, sockets, vice grips.
  
  
• Tent I got this for $69 at the time. There are others that have good reviews for under $100.
  
  
• [Stove] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0009PUQAU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) $70 This one can also run on gas from your bike/gas can
  
  
• Showers $30 Not sure about Australia but here there are buggers in the water.
  
  
• Sleeping Bag $60 You can get a good one for cheap, just check the temp ratings match the area and conditions you will be in.
  
  
• [Water Filter] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B000BBF2RY/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new) Although you can just boil your water it can still taste funny and contain dirt, etc., as such I recommend a filter. Be aware that some don't filter out viruses so you will still want to boil water if your water filter does not. I also like to pack a life straw and tablets. I actually got
  
  
  
  For a more complete check list see this guy's [packing list] (http://www.backcountrydiscoveryroutes.com/WABDR-Packing-List)
  
  So when it comes to keeping it under $500, don't sounds so blue as $500 can get you a longs ways if you shop around.
  

I am looking into purchasing this bag & MSR hydration kit
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000XRHDN2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Thanks!

I was looking at one of the Jetboil systems for cooking. I cant decide if I want the Flash or one of the bigger ones. Do you have any experience with that?

For a tent I was looking at a Kelty Salida 2 person tent

For water I am not to concerned with purification. I want to start with just one night out camps, so I should be able to carry the water I need for the hike in, camp, hike out with me. I dont know if this is enough but I was looking to carry it all in a MSR Deluxe Dromedary Bag

As far as a backpack, I have no idea what I want, how to size them (if thats even important). I dont want something super large, maybe 50-70 range, so I have room to do 3-4 night stays eventually without having to buy a new bag.