How Much Water Should You Carry Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Carrying enough water is an essential part of any backpacking excursion. Not only does it keep you hydrated, but it also ensures that you have enough for any unexpected needs that may arise.

Unfortunately, many backpackers don’t realize how much water they should bring or how to pack it effectively. As a result, they end up carrying too much or too little, neither of which can lead to an enjoyable experience.

The amount of water you should carry while backpacking depends on a variety of factors such as the duration of your trip and the type of terrain you’ll be traversing. Generally speaking, however, experts recommend carrying at least one gallon per person per day. That means if you are going on a two-day trip with two people, each person should carry four gallons total: two gallons for each day.

When considering how much water to bring with you on your backpacking excursion, also take into account the climate and temperature. If you’ll be heading out into hot and dry conditions (such as in a desert), then it’s important to plan for more water than usual. In addition to your own needs for drinking and cooking, consider bringing extra for emergency situations like an unplanned night out in the wilderness or an unexpected injury.

It is important to note that carrying more water than necessary can be a burden on your body and can slow down your progress while backpacking. To reduce the weight carried, look into purchasing collapsible water containers or other lightweight options such as hydration bladders or bottles made from aluminum or plastic which are easy to pack and refill as needed. You may also consider filling reusable bottles with filtered tap water instead of purchasing bottled water which will help reduce waste while also conserving space in your pack.

Conclusion:

When planning your next backpacking excursion, consider how much water you will need based on factors such as duration, terrain type, climate and temperature. Generally speaking, experts suggest bringing at least one gallon of water per person per day; however this amount may vary depending on individual circumstances. Additionally look into lightweight options such as collapsible containers or hydration bladders so that you can carry enough without having to lug around heavy packs.