Quick Answer
Common hydration mistakes made by hikers include drinking too little water, not knowing their sweat rate, and neglecting to treat water from natural sources.
Underestimating Sweat Rate
Hikers often underestimate their sweat rate, thinking they can get away with drinking less water. The average person loses 1-2 liters of water per hour in a temperate climate, but in desert conditions, this can jump to 3-4 liters per hour. If you’re not drinking enough, dehydration can set in quickly. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 1 liter of water for every 2 hours of hiking.
Not Treating Water from Natural Sources
In the wilderness, hikers often rely on natural sources of water like streams, rivers, and lakes. However, these sources can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Failing to treat water from these sources can lead to waterborne illnesses like giardiasis and cryptosporidiosis. Always use a water filter, purification tablets, or UV light to treat water from natural sources before drinking it.
Ignoring Early Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration can sneak up on even the most experienced hikers. Early signs of dehydration include dark urine, headaches, fatigue, and dizziness. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, stop and drink water immediately. If you don’t have access to water, slow your pace and rest in the shade. In extreme cases, dehydration can lead to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.