It is a well-known fact that staying hydrated is essential to human survival. In the wild, however, it can be difficult to stay hydrated, especially when water sources are scarce or contaminated.
Fortunately, with a few precautionary measures and some knowledge, staying hydrated in the wild can be done safely and effectively.
This guide on how to stay hydrated in the wild will provide an overview of the importance of hydration, some tips for finding water in the wild, and other helpful advice for staying hydrated.
Why is Hydration Important?
The importance of hydration cannot be overstated. Our bodies are made up of roughly 70% water, and it is essential for a variety of physiological functions.
Drinking adequate amounts of water helps regulate body temperature, flush out toxins and waste, lubricate joints, and provide essential nutrients to cells and organs.
Additionally, water is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure, digestion, and other bodily processes. The human body can survive several weeks without food, but without water, death can occur in a matter of days.
Therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated in the wild, especially in the summer months, when temperatures are high and the risk of dehydration is greater.
If you do not stay hydrated constantly, you will develop dehydration. Staying hydrated is essential for survival.
Dehydration occurs when the body does not have sufficient water to sustain life. It can occur quickly in extreme temperatures or over long periods of time in less severe conditions.
Symptoms of dehydration include dizziness, fatigue, confusion, muscle cramps, headaches, and dry mouth. In extreme cases, it can lead to mental confusion, loss of consciousness, and death.
How to Find Water in the Wild
In the wilderness, water can be found in a few different ways and in vastly different conditions, so having a clear understanding of where to look and how to make water potable is crucial.
Here are a few sources of water that you can use:
Gathering Water from Natural Sources
When searching for water in the wild, your first priority should be to find natural water sources like rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. If these sources are available, it’s usually easier and less time-consuming to collect water from them than it is to search for other sources.
When gathering from a natural water source, it is important to be aware of the potential for contamination. Make sure that you are downstream from any potential sources of pollution or contamination, such as farms, industrial sites, or human settlements.
If the water looks murky or has strange odors, be sure to purify it before drinking.
Puddles and Wetlands
If natural water sources are not available, you can look for puddles and wetlands in low-lying areas.
These can be great sources of water in the summer months, but they also can become contaminated by animals, insects, and bacteria from the surrounding environment. To be safe, it’s best to purify this water before drinking it.
Collecting Water from Plants
Plants are a great source of water in the wilderness and can help you stay hydrated even in the driest of climates. There are a few different ways of gathering water from plants. The first method is to gather dew in the morning.
This can be done by simply collecting it in a container, or by wringing out a bandana or piece of cloth. This water is usually safe to drink without the need for purification. The second method is to cut open a succulent plant and collect the sap.
This sap can be safe to drink without purification, but you may want to boil it to be sure. The third method is to cut open a green plant and collect the water inside. This water is usually safe to drink, but again it’s best to boil it first to ensure its safety.
Digging for Water
In arid climates, you may need to resort to digging for water. This is usually done in areas where there are seasonal water tables or underground springs. The best way to do this is to dig a large, deep hole and wait for it to fill up with water.
If you’re lucky, you may also find underground streams that you can tap into. Once you’ve found water by digging, you should purify it before drinking. Rainwater Collection In rainy climates, you may be able to collect water from the rain.
To do this, you can set up a large tarp or sheet of plastic to catch the rainwater. This water should be safe to drink without purification, but if you have any doubts, boil it before drinking.
Harvesting Fog
Fog can be an excellent source of water, especially in coastal areas. To harvest fog, you will need to set up a large, dark colored cloth in an area where fog is present.
When the fog condenses on the cloth, the moisture will roll down and can be collected in a container. This water should be safe to drink without purification.
Here’s our article on how to find water in the wild.
How to Filter Water
Filtering water in the wild can be an important survival technique for any outdoor enthusiast. This skill can save you from dehydration and help you stay safe and healthy in any environment.
Whether you are backpacking, camping, or trekking, knowing how to safely filter and purify water can be a lifesaver. Before attempting to filter water in the wild, it’s important that you understand the different types of water contamination.
Bacterial and protozoa are the most common forms of contamination, so it’s important to be aware of the signs. If the water appears discolored or has an unusual smell, it may be contaminated and must be filtered before drinking.
Once you have identified potential sources of contaminated water, there are several techniques you can use to filter and purify the water.
Boiling
Boiling is the most common and simplest method for filtering water in the wild.
Boiling water is an effective way to kill bacteria, viruses, and other organisms. To filter water with this method, bring the water to a full rolling boil for at least one minute.
Boiled water should be left to cool before drinking, as hot water can cause burns to the throat and stomach. Note that boiling is not effective at removing chemicals or heavy metals from water.
Filtration
Filtration is a more effective way of removing bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other particles from water.
Filtration devices come in a variety of sizes and styles, including straws, gravity-fed systems, and pumps. Most filter systems are designed to remove particles as small as 0.1 microns in size, which can filter out nearly all bacteria and protozoa.
Here’s our article on Lifestraw GO – the best water filter.
Chemical Treatment
Another method for filtering water in the wild is to use chemical treatment. This method is often used for emergency water purification in remote areas. Iodine and chlorine are the two most common chemicals used to disinfect water.
Iodine is usually available in the form of tablets or crystals, and chlorine is usually available as a powder or liquid.
When using chemical treatment, check the manufacturer’s instructions for exact dosing and contact times. It is also important to note that chemical treatment will not remove heavy metals or other toxins from water.
Solar Disinfection
Solar disinfection is an effective and environmentally friendly way to filter water in the wild. To use this method, fill a clear, plastic bottle with contaminated water and place it in direct sunlight for at least 6 hours.
The UV light from the sun will kill bacteria, viruses, and other organisms, making the water safe for drinking.
Using this method may not work in cloudy or overcast conditions. Additionally, it is important to remember that solar disinfection will not remove heavy metals or other toxins from water.
Here’s our complete article on how to filter water.
Tips for Staying Healthy in the Wild
Once you have located a water source, here are a few tips for staying hydrated in the wild:
1. Drink as soon as you are thirsty: It is important to stay ahead of your thirst when you’re in the wilderness, so make sure you drink water as soon as you start to feel thirsty.
2. Wear light-colored clothing: Wearing light-colored clothing helps keep you cool, which can help prevent dehydration.
3. Carry a water filter: If you are unable to find a clean water source, it is important to carry a water filter so you can purify water before drinking.
4. Carry a water bottle: Make sure you have a water bottle with you to store and transport water.
5. Rest in the shade: When temperatures are high, it is important to take breaks and rest in the shade to cool down and reduce the risk of dehydration.
Final Words
Staying hydrated in the wild is essential to survival. While it can be difficult to find and access water sources in the wilderness, there are several ways to go about it. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can ensure that you stay hydrated and safe while in the wild.
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