How Do You Drink Enough Water When Backpacking In The Winter?
Even when snow or icy streams surround you, it can take a great deal of effort to stay hydrated when backpacking in cold weather. Anything you can do to make drinking water taste better will help you stay well hydrated. Camp near running water whenever this is an option – melting snow is a labor-intensive process. But always be sure to purify the water – no matter how pristine it looks. Use wide-mouthed bottles. These are easier to fill with snow or stream water and easier to open and close with gloved hands. Carry water bottles specifically designed to withstand both freezing and boiling temperature. Drink plenty of fluids before you start your day’s activities, and drink water at regular and frequent intervals throughout the day. Urine should always be clear – yellow-colored urine indicates dehydration. Add an inch or more of water to a pot before beginning to melt snow for water. This will keep the snow from scorching and tasting funny. Pour water back and forth from one container t
