How Many Liters Is Good for Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

Backpacking is a popular leisure activity, thanks to its combination of physical activity and exploration. It’s also an inexpensive way to travel, as many of the necessary supplies can be found in your own home.

But one essential item that every backpacker needs to consider is the amount of water they will need while out on their journey. Just how much water is enough?

The average person needs about 2 liters of water per day to stay hydrated. That’s enough for basic activities like walking, but if you’re doing more strenuous activities like climbing or long distance hikes, you’ll need more. According to the American Council on Exercise, athletes should aim for 3-4 liters of water per hour during intense exercise.

If you’re planning a multi-day backpacking trip, it’s important to factor in the additional water weight and find ways to reduce it. Water filters are a great way to reduce your load as they allow you to use natural sources such as rivers and lakes instead of carrying large amounts of bottled water with you.

Of course, other factors like climate and altitude should also be taken into account when determining how much water is necessary for a backpacking trip. Hotter climates require more water while higher altitudes may require slightly less due to less perspiration.

Conclusion

Overall, how much water you need for backpacking depends on various factors such as length of the trip, intensity of activity and climate. For most people engaging in moderate activities, 2 liters per day is usually sufficient but athletes should aim for 3-4 liters per hour during intense exercise.