When it comes to survival in the great outdoors, hydration is at the top of the priority list. Whether you're on a weekend trek with your unit or training for high-adventure activities, staying hydrated is critical for safety, endurance, and performance. In fact, water is so essential that over half of the human body is made up of it. Without proper hydration, your body cannot function at its best—period.

In this installment of the Scouting America Safety Series, we’ll explore how to stay hydrated, prevent dehydration, and prepare for emergencies on your next adventure.

Water fuels every major system in your body. From regulating temperature and lubricating joints to enabling critical chemical reactions, water is essential for physical performance and overall health. Early signs of dehydration—like fatigue, dizziness, and irritability—can quickly turn into dangerous situations if not addressed.

When you're active outdoors, especially in hot or dry conditions, your body loses water faster. Even in cooler weather, your body still loses fluids through breath and sweat. That’s why hydration should never be an afterthought—it's your first line of defense in staying safe outdoors.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the recommended daily fluid intake is:

• 3.7 liters (125 oz) for adult men
• 2.7 liters (91 oz) for adult women

These totals include water from both food (about 20%) and beverages (about 80%). However, there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. Your hydration needs depend on factors like:

• Physical activity level
• Outdoor temperature and humidity
• Elevation
• Your personal health and body size

Tip: Drink consistently throughout the day. Don't wait until you're thirsty—by then, you're already behind.

Start hydrating before your outdoor adventure. If you have a big hike or campout coming up, drink extra water in the days leading up to it. This helps your body stay ahead of dehydration. On the trail, drink water at regular intervals—even if you don’t feel thirsty. A good rule of thumb is to take a few sips every 15–20 minutes. 

Preparation is key. For emergencies or survival situations, the minimum recommendation is:

• 1 gallon of water per person per day
• Store at least a 3-day supply

This covers both drinking and basic sanitation needs. Water is heavy, so if you're in a backcountry setting, carrying that much isn't always practical. That’s where smart hydration planning comes in.

Every Scout knows that the right gear makes all the difference. When it comes to staying hydrated, a reliable water bottle is non-negotiable. Whether you're navigating rugged trails, biking through camp, or just hanging out at base camp, having the right bottle keeps hydration easy and accessible.

Here are a few hydration essentials from ScoutShop.org to pack on your next outing:

• Nalgene 32 oz Wide Mouth Bottles – Durable, leak-proof, and perfect for measuring your daily intake.
• CamelBak Eddy+ Bottles – Spill-resistant and easy to use one-handed—great for younger Scouts or active treks.
• Collapsible Water Bottles – Space-saving hydration for those tight on pack space.
• Hydration-Tracking Bottles – With built-in markers to remind you to sip throughout the day.
• Filtered Bottles – Combine portability with peace of mind—great for backcountry adventures.

Want to be fully prepared? Consider packing two bottles: one for immediate use and one as backup or for extra water storage. Don’t forget to label your bottles with your name or unit number so they don’t get mixed up around camp.

Check out our full selection of water bottles and hydration gear and make sure your pack is adventure-ready.

Hydration isn’t just about drinking water—it’s about drinking enough to keep your body running efficiently. Here's how to tell:

• You’re drinking regularly and not waiting until you’re thirsty
• Your urine is clear or light yellow
• You feel energized and mentally alert

If your urine is dark or you feel sluggish, it’s time to up your intake.

• Always carry at least 1 liter of water on day hikes—and more for longer trips
• Pack a lightweight water filter for emergencies
• Pre-hydrate before outdoor adventures
• Don’t ration water—drink it as needed
• Monitor your body for signs of dehydration

As the Emergency Preparedness merit badge pamphlet states: "Trying to make water last longer does more harm than good."

Hydration is survival, and preparation is everything. From daily water intake to emergency filtration systems, being Scout-ready means never being caught off guard.

Got hydration hacks or outdoor adventure stories? Share them on social media with #ScoutShopBSA and get a chance to be featured. Stay tuned for more from the Scouting America Safety Series, including our next blogs on First Aid and Navigation.