How Much Water Is Enough for Camping?
Camping is one of life’s great pleasures. It provides a chance to get away from it all, reconnect with nature, and forget about life’s stresses for a short while. Packing properly and having the right gear is essential for a successful camping trip, and that includes plenty of drinking water. But how much is enough? As a father of three kids and an experienced camper, I have a few tips on estimating how much water for camping you should bring.
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How Much Do You Need?
Estimates of how much water for camping vary depending on how long you plan to be away, and who’s in your party. Generally speaking, a family of four will need at least one gallon (3.8 liters) of water for a two-day camping trip. If you plan to be away longer, you’ll need more, but keep in mind that water is heavy and takes up lots of space.
Tips for Estimating How Much Water You’ll Need
- Plan for two liters of water per person, per day.
- Be mindful of extra water-intensive activities such as swimming, extreme temperatures, or tough hikes.
- If you’re camping with a group, pack separately so each individual has their own supply of water.
- If you’re backpacking, restock your freshwater supply at reliable sources whenever possible.
- Bring a reliable filter or reliable water-purifying tablets.
If you’re not sure how much water you should bring, err on the side of caution and prepare for the worst. Bring extra gallons or even jugs if you have the room in your vehicle.
where to store the water and tips once you get to the campsite
Once you’ve arrived at the campsite, it’s important to store the water properly and locate the closest, safe water source (if you’re not sure, check with campground staff).
Tips for Storing Water While Camping
- Store water away from your sleeping area.
- Keep water cool in a shaded spot.
- Cover containers to keep out bugs, dirt, and debris.
- Choose durable containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Clean containers after use.
- Store food and water separately.
For a more detailed guide on storing and filtering water, check out this helpful video.
Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Trip
It’s usually a good idea to bring more water than you think you’ll need for any camping trip, just in case. Dehydration is the last thing you want to deal with on a camping trip, so plan ahead and be prepared.
By making a few easy preparations when it comes to water, you can make sure your camping trip runs smoothly and no one runs dry. Best of all, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing your water is accessible, you can then focus on enjoying the great outdoors.
Following my tips for estimating how much water for camping you should bring along will help ensure that you and your camping companions stay hydrated and healthy during your trip. Happy camping!
