14 Tips For ALL THINGS WATER Every Backpacker Should Know

Summary

In this informative video, Dixie shares essential backpacking tips focused on water safety and hydration. She emphasizes choosing the safest water sources, like flowing over stagnant, and highlights the importance of keeping clean and dirty water bottles separate. Dixie introduces various water treatment methods, including the Sawyer Squeeze, and offers creative solutions for collecting water from shallow sources. She also discusses the risks of overhydration and the benefits of using drink mixes, creatine, and glycerol for better hydration. Additionally, she advises on always having a backup water treatment plan and the necessity of testing water filters before trips. Dixie concludes with practical tips for on-trail fixes and the value of carrying extra gaskets for the Sawyer Squeeze.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Choose the safest water source possible, preferring flowing over stagnant water and higher elevation sources.
• 🎒 Keep dirty and clean water bottles separate to avoid contamination, using different sizes or colors for easy identification.
• 💧 Ensure water is easily accessible to stay hydrated, considering hydration systems or bottles with bite valves for convenience.
• 🌊 Use a water filter like the Sawyer Squeeze for on-the-go water treatment, which is lightweight and quick to use.
• 🏞️ Get creative when collecting water from shallow sources, using leaves, rocks, or scoops to direct the flow.
• 🚰 Back flush your water filter regularly using a clean water bottle and a sports cap to maintain its effectiveness.
• 🐫 Camel up cautiously, being aware of the body's limits and the risks of overhydration and electrolyte imbalance.
• 🍹 Use drink mixes like Element to add flavor to water and stay hydrated, opting for natural sweeteners like Stevia.
• 💪 Incorporate creatine and glycerol into your diet before a hike to improve hydration and energy levels.
• 🦠 Be aware that most water filters do not remove viruses, and have a backup water treatment plan for such scenarios.
• 🔬 Test your water filter before your trip to ensure it's functioning properly and consider carrying extra parts like a gasket for on-trail fixes.

Q & A

What is the first water tip mentioned in the script?

The first water tip is to ensure you pick the safest water source possible. It's better to choose a flowing source over a stagnant one, and smaller trickles are preferred over large sources like rivers with lots of runoff.

Why is it advised to avoid mixing dirty and clean water bottles?

Mixing dirty (untreated) water with clean water can contaminate the clean water, potentially leading to illnesses such as diarrhea, especially when consumed on the trail.

How can backpackers ensure their water is easily accessible to stay hydrated?

Backpackers can use a hydration system like a bladder or a bottle with a tube and bite valve, or attach a water bottle to their shoulder strap using a bungee. The key is to find what works best for the individual to encourage regular hydration.

What type of water treatment system does the speaker prefer and why?

The speaker prefers the Sawyer Squeeze because it is lightweight, quick to use, and allows for immediate drinking without having to wait for chemical treatments to take effect.

What is 'cameling up' and what are its potential risks?

Cameling up involves drinking a lot of water at a water source and then filling up bottles before continuing the hike. The risk is that it might lead to overhydration, which can cause an imbalance in electrolytes, especially in endurance athletes and military personnel.

Why should hikers carry a backup water treatment plan?

A backup plan is essential in case the primary water filter becomes damaged or ineffective. It could involve boiling water or using chemical treatments like bleach as an alternative.

What is the speaker's recommendation for dealing with shallow water sources?

The speaker suggests using creative methods such as placing a leaf to create a mini waterfall for easier collection, or using a scoop or cup to gather water from shallow sources.

What are the speaker's thoughts on using drink mixes for hydration?

The speaker recommends using drink mixes like Element to add flavor to water and make hydration more enjoyable, without the negative effects of sugar found in other sports drinks.

How can creatine and glycerol help with hydration?

Creatine and glycerol can improve hydration by helping the body maintain continuous energy and carrying water to the cells, making them effective for hikers who plan to camel up and utilize this hydration strategy.

What should hikers do if their water filter is not functioning properly?

Hikers should test their filter before their trip and if it's not working well, consider soaking it in water beforehand. If on the trail and the filter is not effective, they can use backup methods like boiling water or using a bandana to strain sediment before treating with bleach.

What is the speaker's advice for treating water in cold conditions?

The speaker suggests melting snow in a food pot or heating it up, or placing snow in gallon-sized Ziplocs on the ground to melt. It's important to filter the melted snow to remove any contaminants or particles.