Stay Hydrated While Hiking

If there's one thing our family has learned it's that we need to stay hydrated while hiking.

Hiking is an easy family reset. Fall and early spring are our favorites. I also hike alone to clear my head.

Tips to Staying Hydrated on a Hike

Start with a cup or two at the car. Skip extra caffeine and alcohol; they work against you on a warm trail.

Each of us leaves with a stainless bottle filled from the Berkey at home — municipally treated tap water that already ran through the elements.

On a long loop we also pack Sport Berkey bottles. We refill those at a park fountain or visitor-center tap if that tap is city or park water. We do not dip them in the river.

Sip all the way. Rest in the shade. Trail-org tips: North Country Trail hydration.

How To Carry Water

Pack, vest, or a handheld bottle. Most day hikes are a bottle. Fill at home from the gravity system. Second bottle or Sport Berkey for a known tap at the turnaround. Related: portable filtration on treated taps.

Stream water is a different product class (pump, tabs, boil). That is not how we sell Sport Berkey or the stainless systems.

Final Thoughts

Plan volume for heat and miles. Signs of dehydration mean sit down and drink what you carried. Official kitchen replacements: Berkey Phoenix filters.

Pack the tap water. Sip often. Leave the creek in the creek.