Backpacking trips can be a great way to explore the outdoors and get away from it all, but they require some planning. One of the most important things to consider is how you will carry water.
This can be a tricky task, as you need to balance weight, convenience, and the ability to keep your water safe and clean. Here are some tips to help you carry water while backpacking.
Choose the Right Container
The first step in carrying water on a backpacking trip is choosing the right container. Most people choose either a hydration bladder or plastic water bottles.
Hydration bladders are lightweight and convenient, as they can be filled up at any source of water and carried in a backpack or attached directly to the body with a strap. However, they are more prone to contamination than plastic bottles. Plastic bottles are heavier but provide greater protection against contamination from external sources.
Carry Enough Water
The next step is carrying enough water for your trip. Generally speaking, an adult should aim for about 2 liters of water per day when backpacking in temperate climates.
However, if you’re backpacking in an area with extreme temperatures or high altitudes, you should plan for more water consumption. It’s always better to bring too much than not enough.
Treat Contaminated Water
If you come across contaminated sources of water while backpacking, such as streams or ponds, it’s important that you treat it before drinking it. There are various methods for treating contaminated water such as boiling it, filtering it with a pump filter or using chemical purification tablets.
Conclusion
Carrying water on a backpacking trip requires careful consideration of weight and convenience while ensuring that your drinking supply remains safe and clean. The best way to do this is by selecting the right container for your needs and making sure that you bring enough for your trip. Additionally, if necessary be sure to properly treat any contaminated sources of water before drinking them.