If you have the right pack, clothes and gear you can hike
the trails all summer. But unless you have proper hydration, your trek could
end abruptly - and tragically. Getting enough fluids into your body to
counteract the effects of sweating is vital to your health and the overall
success of your activity.
When shopping for a water bottle, first determine your
needs. How far will you go? How long do you plan to spend on this activity? How
close will you be to fresh water sources? These factors determine if you should
carry water with you or pack a filter to replenish your
water needs.
Water is always best, but carbohydrate and electrolyte rich
sports drinks can give you an extra boost of energy and push you further if
you've hit a dip in energy.
- Katadyn Vario Microfilter -Weighing
less than one pound, this water filter contains a two-stage disc and glass
fibre microfilter that sanitizes even very dirty water. With two settings,
you can filter 4 pints (2 liters) per minute or for a longer filter life,
2 pints (1 liter) per minute. Each cartridge pumps an average of 3962
pints (1875 liters). For more information visit Katadyn.
- MSR MiniWorks EX Water Filter Pump
- This small and lightweight pump, ideal for short day hikes, filters
disease causing bacteria such as giardia. Quick and easy flow ensures you
spend less time pumping the water and more time enjoying your hike. For more
information visit MSR.
What's in your pack?
Feel free to add to this list. Whether
you're a dedicated boulderer, a crazed canoe-camper or an intrepid weekend
warrior, the items in these basic categories will get you through the trail.
James W. Coates,
National Park Expert
