Honestly, getting a gravel bike inspired me to get out more and explore the trails and paths I never considered riding using either a road bike or mountain bike before my purchase.
Btw, carbon is a great choice paired with a tubeless setup if comfort and light weight top your list of priorities.
Camelbaks are good. I've switched to a fanny pack a couple of years ago. Weight distribution is lower and on the hips instead of the back. Storage capacity is less, but my back isn't hot and sweaty anymore.