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Never underestimate your water requirement. The slightest bit
of dehydration will cause a decrease in your physical performance.
If allowed to worsen, it can lead to much more serious problems.
You should do easy hikes to learn what your individual requirement
is. However, keep in mind that you will require more water if
the hike is hot/unshaded, and also if the hike is at altitude.
Make sure you bring more than enough. If you're not sure if you're
drinking too much or too little water, weigh yourself before and
after -- you should weigh the same; if you weigh less, you've
lost weight due to dehydration. Altitude is a big factor in dehydration. The average human must consume a minimum of 3 quarts of water
per day up to 12,000 feet, and up to 10 quarts above 12,000 feet. [ref: The Dayhiker's Handbook]
Return to Hiking Hazards.
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