Day 21-Water

I have talked a little bit about water intake during a hike already.  Today, I will tell you approximately how much water you will need for your hikes.

Generally, you should be drinking about half of your body weight (in ounces) of water per day.  So, if you weigh 200lbs.  that would be 100 ounces of water a day.  I don't know how many of us get to that, but that is the general rule.  Add to that about 8 ounces per hour of exercise.  If your hike is 2 hours that would be 16 extra ounces of fluid needed on top of your regular fluid intake.

Of course if it is hot, you would want to double that amount since your body will be losing fluid at a more rapid pace as the heat rises.


Some signs of dehydration include:

-Fatigue
-Decrease in sweat
-Feeling thirsty
-Dry mouth
-Headaches
-Muscle cramping
-Dark colored urine

My kids and I all have Camelbak bladder systems that hold 70 ounces of water.  On top of that I carry a few extra bottles of water in my pack just in case.  It is better to have more than less especially since you are not guaranteed a fresh and safe water source on your hike.

Be safe and Happy Hiking!