How To Drink Water In The Forest? Dos & Don’ts

how-to-drink-water-in-the-forestUsually, when people go for picnics or to spend a day in the forest, they take all the required basics such as water, food, medicine, etc. But what happens if you run out of water and get thirsty?

You might wonder how you can quench your thirst while you are in the forest, but many strange thoughts cross your mind; what if the water in the lakes, waterfalls, or rivers is dangerous, or what if it is unsafe to drink?

While exploring how to drink water in the forest, you might also be interested in learning about the safety of drinking water, such as ‘Is San Antonio Water Safe To Drink?

These questions are quite logical as it is common for you to visit or travel through a forest on a summer day that is usually hot, and running out of water to drink is normal. The main question for everyone facing this problem is:

How to drink water in the forest? Especially when there is a high possibility of testing unknown waters!

It is quite dangerous to roam around the forest in a dehydrated state, and there are chances of fainting or getting a heat stroke, and your body will eventually give up on you if you don’t find a drinkable water source.

Don’t worry at all! This guide has got you covered in all directions, and you will find multiple ways to keep yourself hydrated while in the forest as well as some helpful dos and don’ts.

Here’s a video on how to get clean water in the forest:

How To Drink Water In The Forest – Dos & Don’ts

Here are some other ways to drink water in the forest:

Prepare yourself

Prepare yourself

When you first go on a trip to the forest, it is important to ensure you carry enough water based on the temperature that day and the amount of time you will stay outdoors.

Carry all your supplies, such as shades, umbrellas, tents, 2 liters of water, or a water cooler, to prepare yourself for the worst situations because anything can happen in the wild.

Additionally, if you’re experiencing any discomfort or concerns related to water consumption, such as nausea after drinking water, be sure to check out our informative guide for helpful insights.

Are streams and rivers safe?

Are streams and rivers safe

When you walk around the forest without a water resource, the first thing you will often see or hear is a clear stream of water, a lake, or a waterfall.

As clear as it is, you might not be able to resist your thirst and jump right into it. Be careful, though; the water that appears clear and clean may not be drinkable.

The first thing you must look for is a sign of life in the water; it could be fish, lush green plant growth, other microscopic organisms, or even algae that may suggest the water is drinkable. If you don’t see anything moving or living in the water, then it means it should be avoided at all costs.

Contaminants in natural water sources

Contaminants in natural water sources

The contaminants and impurities in the forest water resources cannot be seen easily by the naked eye, and often, you need to use a microscope to see the presence of pollutants or poisonous substances.

If you are going for a relaxing trip in the forest, a microscope is the last thing you will carry. So it is better to be well-informed about your surroundings than be unaware.

The contaminants in the open water streams or rainwater can be anything; an animal might have died and rotted away, and waste materials or even chemicals can fill the water without your knowledge. The last thing you want on a forest adventure is diarrhea, so being careful and knowing what water type can be consumed is essential.

In the midst of the forest, mastering the art of staying hydrated is essential. Learn about the benefits of drinking reverse osmosis water to enhance your wilderness experience.

Where to find drinkable water?

Where to find drinkable water

The first step is to check your surroundings; you will most likely find free-flowing water or groundwater reserves. Now groundwater is not exactly completely clean as well, but it solely depends on what surrounds it; if the soil or plantation around it is dry or dead, it means it has some chemical infiltration within; if not, it is mostly clean and safe to drink because the natural rocks and sedimentation filter it out.

But if you see a gushing stream, like a valley or a low point, it is good to take advantage of that resource rather than groundwater because a strong flow means more possibilities for clean, drinking water. All you have to do is make sure that you reach a point where you can hear the flow of water, so try to go upriver or eastward toward the actual water source; that is where you will find the cleanest water.

Groundwater sources usually have soft and moist mud around them, so you can easily find a clean area and start digging out the mud to access the clean water.

How to clean the forest water?

How to clean the forest water

Now that you have found a water source that you deem suitable for drinking, fill it up in a clear container, whether a bottle or glass, so you can easily see its contents.

If you feel like it is a bit muddy or murky, allow it to sit for at least five to ten minutes. If it is just mud, the particles will settle down at the base of the glass, and you can drink the water without worrying.

Our guide can provide valuable insights if you ever face concerns like stomach pain and diarrhea after drinking water.

FAQS

What are other ways to stay hydrated in the forest?

You can use water bottles, carry at least 2-liter bottles, or find flowing streams of clear water. Additionally, you can carry fruits or vegetables with high water content.

How to collect rainwater?

You can use a plastic sheet to trap the rainwater when it rains, but you must consume it quickly because water still has more chances of accumulating bacteria.

While exploring how to drink water in the forest, it’s crucial to consider water safety; learn more about ‘Is Florida Tap Water Safe To Drink‘ in urban and natural environments.

Final Thoughts

Going on an adventure trip in the forest sounds fun, but it can be equally a survival mode; for that, you must always be prepared. It is better to have prior knowledge of the nature of the forest, location, where to build a base camp or find a water source, etc.

I hope this article helped to give you a direction on how to drink water in the forest.