We all know why hydration is important. You know… staying alive, staying healthy, and all that cool stuff. But knowing HOW to stay hydrated during this steamy season is a whole other animal! You have to think about where you’ll be, your activity level, what equipment you’ll have… there’s a lot that can impact your plans.
We don’t know what exactly your next adventure entails. But here are a few tips we love to draw from when we head outdoors during our hottest months!
Know your destination
Whether it’s for an overnight backpacking trip, day hike, or something else entirely, knowing what you’re getting into is important.
Use a topographical map to know if that thin blue line is at the bottom of a steep descent. You’ll want to know if collecting from it will mean climbing switchbacks back to camp!
Check apps like All Trails to read recent reviews and see if anyone mentions the state of water features. You don’t want to go in expecting to find a crystal clear stream and find a muddy ditch instead.
Keep filtration or treatments handy
Regardless of where you plan on gathering water from on your adventure, you’ll need a way to make sure it’s safe before starting to sip. There are dozens of options on the market, so explore the pros and cons of things like filtering water bottles, gravity filtration systems, and water treatments.
What makes sense in a scenario involving an entire family car camping won’t for a solo backpacker and vice versa. Take some time to make the best decision for yourself!
Hydration packs & Jugs
If it doesn’t look like water will be handy, you’ll have to bring what you need. The general rule of thumb is 1 liter for every 2 hours of hiking. Hydration packs are a great way to free up your hands and keep plenty of water on your person. You can buy just the bladder if you’re planning on already having a backpack on for your adventure.
If you’re driving t your campsite, fill a jug with water before leaving home. Slimline containers like this one pack nicely and have a spigot for easy dispensing.
Use flavoring
If you’re someone who usually consumes a lot of ‘not water’ at home, adding a few drops of flavor might be a good way to entice yourself to drink more when out and about.
It’s easy to underestimate how much your intake should be until you start feeling parched and dry. By that time you’re probably already entering the first phase of dehydration. Go ahead and keep sipping, even if you don’t feel thirsty yet.
Eat moisture-heavy fruits and vegetables
If you’re in a scenario where weight isn’t an issue, bring along moisture-heavy fruits and vegetables like watermelon or cucumber! They’re a delicious way to up your water intake and mix things up. Plus, you get a nice dose of essential vitamins like B and K. That’s what you call a win-win!
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Staying hydrated may take more intentionality in the summer. But with planning and preparation, it doesn’t have to be a concern standing between you and your next outdoor adventure!
