How Many Liters of Water Should I Bring Backpacking?

By Michael Ferguson

When you are out backpacking, it is extremely important to bring enough water. Knowing how much water you should bring on a backpacking trip can be tricky, especially if you are a beginner.

The simple answer is that you should always bring more than you think you need. However, there are other factors to consider as well.

For starters, the amount of water that you need depends on the length of your trip. If you are only going out for a day hike, then you likely won’t need as much water as someone who is spending several days or even weeks in the backcountry. Generally speaking, it is recommended to bring 1 liter of water per person per day for day hikes; 2 liters per person per day for overnight trips; and up to 3 liters per person per day for extended trips.

Another factor to consider is the temperature and humidity of your destination. If it is hot and humid outside, then your body will require more water to stay hydrated than if it were cold and dry.

In these cases, it might be wise to bring an extra liter or two. Furthermore, if your route involves any strenuous activity such as climbing or carrying a heavy pack, then your body will require even more hydration.

It’s also important to remember that not all sources of water are safe for drinking. Natural bodies such as lakes, rivers and streams may contain contaminants such as bacteria and parasites that can make you sick if ingested. Therefore, it is always advisable to carry some kind of purification device such as a filter or chemical tablets in order to make sure the water is safe before drinking it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when planning a backpacking trip it is always best to bring more than enough water with you. As a general rule of thumb, plan on bringing 1 liter per person per day for day hikes; 2 liters per person per day for overnight trips; and up to 3 liters per person per day for extended trips depending on weather conditions and activity levels. Additionally, make sure any source of drinking water has been purified before consuming it.