Being on an expedition whether for fun or exploration is by no means a simple feat. Providing yourself with the necessary means of sustenance and hydration is an often overlooked, yet essential component of the entire experience. After all, the typical person needs two to three liters of water per day. Then there is the matter of the water’s purity. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of proper water sourcing and purification when you venture off on an expedition.
1. Securing a Supply of H2O on Your Next Adventure
Value hydration on your next adventure by taking the necessary steps to secure a reliable supply of H2O. It should be your number one priority to stay hydrated while adventuring. Not doing so can lead to headaches, fatigue, nausea, and other adverse effects.
- Carry a Water Bottle – equip yourself with a flexible water bottle, made out of stainless steel or plastic. If you’re traveling, lightweight and foldable options are great choices. Don’t forget to fill it up before your journey.
- Review Water Sources – understand the area you will be adventuring in beforehand; research online and ask advice. Know the sources of H2O available to you such as rivers, streams, and wells.
- Bring a Water Filter – if you are filling up your bottle from sketchy sources, invest in a water filter or purifier. These are affordable and lightweight filters that will fit on most bottles and can protect you from parasites.
The biggest risk while exploring is dehydration, so prioritize the importance of H2O wherever you go. Proper hydration will make all the difference in how much you enjoy your adventure.
2. Methods of Purifying Water When Adventure Calls
When adventure calls, one thing that will always be on the to-do list is finding a way to secure a safe source of drinking water. While filtering water can be an extremely satisfying process and even make a person feel like an outdoors survival specialist, there are a variety of methods that can be used to purify water – no matter the environment or resources available.
Here are some of the more popular options that adventurers can use to purify water while out and about:
- Boiling Water: Boiling is the most common and reliable method of water purification, as it can kill microorganisms and parasites that live in water. Just bring the water to a rolling boil (approx. 3 minutes) and then let it cool down before drinking.
- Purification Tablets: Portable purifying tablets are generally a safe and inexpensive way to purify water. These tablets contain iodine or chlorine that will destroy many harmful organisms. Simply add the tablet to the water, let the solution sit for 15-30 minutes, and then the water is ready for consumption.
- Filtering: Filtering is an excellent way to remove unwanted particles from water, such as dirt, debris, and parasites. There are hundreds of filters designed specifically for the outdoor adventurer, with different levels of filtration based on one’s needs
While these methods are a great way to purify water when out-and-about, keep in mind that it is important to always check the quality of the water source before attempting to purify it. It is not recommended to purify water that is murky, smelly, or obviously contaminated in any way.
3. The Pros and Cons of Different Water Sources
When choosing a drinking source of water, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option. Here’s a rundown of the different water sources and what you should know before selecting one.
Tap Water
Tap water is free or reasonably priced and the most accessible option for many people. However, be mindful of the quality of your tap water and make sure it meets the safety standards recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency. You may need a water filter to remove any potential contaminants.
- Pros: Inexpensive, accessible and can be treated to remove contaminants
- Cons: May contain contaminants depending on your local source
Filtered Water
A filtration system costs money upfront but will save you money in the long-term. Not only does a good quality filter system provide you with delicious tasting water, but it will also remove sediment and contaminants to make sure that all of your water is safe to drink.
- Pros: Removes sediment, contaminants and tastes great
- Cons: Requires an upfront investment for filter systems
Bottled Water
Bottled water can be convenient, but it is often expensive. Make sure you read the labels to determine the source of the water, and the processes the water has gone through in order to guarantee it is safe to drink. Additionally, it has been found that bottled water has a significant environmental impact due to the production of plastic waste.
- Pros: Convenient and easy to transport
- Cons: Expensive and environmental impact from plastic waste
4. Staying Hydrated and Healthy on Your Expedition
Exploring the great outdoors is a thrilling experience–but it can also take its toll on your body if you’re not well prepared. Keeping your body hydrated and healthy should be at the top of your priority list, and while it may seem like an extra hassle at first, the effort will pay off in the end. Here’s are some tips for optimizing your health and preventing unplanned trips to the hospital.
1. Drink Water, Not Sports Drinks.
You’ve likely heard it before and it bears repeating: you should be drinking a lot of water on your expedition. Water helps your body regulate its temperature, and helps you avoid becoming a sweaty, dehydrated mess. Avoid sporting drinks, as the really contain additional sugar and artificial sweeteners.
2. Supplement your diet.
Eating on a hike can provide some additional nutritional value. High energy snacks like protein bars and trail mix can be convenient and lightweight, which makes them perfect for the wandering explorer. You can also supplement your diet using vitamins and over-the-counter options, like Emergen-C or Diarrhea Cure.
3. Avoid Exhaustion.
Not getting enough sleep can put a damper on your entire expedition. Your body needs time to rest and recharge in order to remain healthy, so make sure you get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. If you’re feeling bad, take a break for the day and relax!
4. Know your Limits.
Hiking is an inherently dangerous activity, so you should always know your own limits. If you’re feeling tired, take a break. If something seems too difficult, don’t be afraid to turn back and try again later. Trust your instincts, and do what’s best for your safety.
Ultimately, clean water is essential for any outdoor expedition. With the correct strategies in place for sourcing and purification, we can all enjoy a cool glass of refreshing water with peace of mind, no matter where the journey takes us. Here’s to staying healthy and hydrated!
