Things You'll Need:
- Herbal Teas
- Backcountry Water Filters
- Backpacking Stoves
- Camp-stove Fuels
- Snow Shovels
- Water Bottle Insulators
- Water Bottles
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Step 1
Camp near running water whenever this is an option - melting snow is a labor-intensive process. But always be sure to purify the water - no matter how pristine it looks.
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Step 2
Use wide-mouthed bottles. These are easier to fill with snow or stream water and easier to open and close with gloved hands.
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Step 3
Carry water bottles specifically designed to withstand both freezing and boiling temperature.
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Step 4
Drink plenty of fluids before you start your day's activities, and drink water at regular and frequent intervals throughout the day. Urine should always be clear - yellow-colored urine indicates dehydration.
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Step 5
Add an inch or more of water to a pot before beginning to melt snow for water. This will keep the snow from scorching and tasting funny.
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Step 6
Pour water back and forth from one container to another to get rid of the smoky taste that results from melting snow over a fire.
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Step 7
Keep clean, black garbage bags on hand to melt snow during daylight hours: shovel snow into the bag, seal the bag, and let the sun do the work for you.
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Step 8
Sleep with any water you anticipate wanting to drink during the night.
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Step 9
Bury bottles of water turned upside down in the banks of snow during the night, and mark the spot clearly with an extended trekking pole or ski pole. The snow will keep the bottles from freezing, and positioning them upside down will prevent ice from clogging the lid.
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Step 10
Heat water before you head out for the day and cover the bottle with an insulated cover.
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Step 11
Carry herbal teas or instant ciders that will add flavor to hot water without dehydrating you.
