Water is an essential element for any outdoor activity, and especially for bikepacking, where keeping hydrated is crucial for performance and safety. In this article, we will explore different ways of carrying water during bikepacking trips, with a focus on efficiency, comfort, and weight distribution. Whether you are planning a short overnight ride or a long-distance adventure, learning how to carry water properly can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. So, let’s dive in and discover some helpful tips and tricks!
Understanding Your Water Needs
Before hitting the trail, it’s important to understand your water needs. The amount of water you’ll need to carry will depend on several factors, including your body weight, the length and difficulty of your ride, and the weather conditions. On average, you should aim to drink at least one liter of water per hour of riding. It’s always better to carry more water than you think you’ll need, so you don’t risk running out.
Dehydration
Dehydration can be a serious problem, especially when you’re bikepacking. It can lead to fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches, and even heat exhaustion. To avoid dehydration, start hydrating before your ride, and continue to drink water throughout the day. If you start to feel thirsty, it’s a sign that you’re already dehydrated, so don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
Choosing the right water storage
When it comes to carrying water on a bikepacking trip, there are several options available. The right choice for you will depend on your personal preferences, the length of your ride, and the amount of water you need to carry. Here are some popular options:
When it comes to carrying water on a bikepacking trip, there are several options available. The right choice for you will depend on your personal preferences, the length of your ride, and the amount of water you need to carry. Here are some popular options:
Water Bottles
Water bottles are a popular choice for carrying water on a bikepacking trip. They’re lightweight, easy to refill, and can be attached to your bike frame or stored in a bottle cage. However, they’re not always the best option for longer rides, as they typically only hold around 750 ml of water.
Hydration Bladders
Hydration bladders are another popular choice for carrying water on a bikepacking trip. They’re typically worn like a backpack and have a tube that extends to your mouth, allowing you to drink water without having to stop riding. Hydration bladders are ideal for longer rides, as they can hold several liters of water. However, they can be a bit bulky and can be challenging to refill on the go.
Water Filter Systems
If you’re planning a long bikepacking trip, a water filter system may be a good investment. These systems allow you to collect water from natural sources such as streams and lakes and filter it for safe drinking. While they can be a bit bulky and add extra weight to your gear, they’re a great option for staying hydrated on longer trips.
Storing Water on Your Bike
Once you’ve chosen your water storage option, it’s essential to know how to store it on your bike correctly. Here are some tips to help you keep your water safe and secure:
Once you’ve chosen your water storage option, it’s essential to know how to store it on your bike correctly. Here are some tips to help you keep your water safe and secure:
Bottle Cages
If you’re using water bottles, make sure you have enough bottle cages installed on your bike frame. Most bikes come with at least two bottle cage mounts, but you may need to purchase additional mounts if you want to carry more water. Make sure your bottle cages are secure and can hold your water bottles without slipping or bouncing around while you ride.
Hydration Bladder Pockets
If you’re using a hydration bladder, make sure your bike has a pocket or attachment point designed to hold the bladder. This will help keep the bladder stable and prevent it from bouncing around while you ride. Some hydration bladders come with a backpack designed to hold the bladder, which is a great option if you’re carrying a lot of water.
Refilling Your Water
When you’re bikepacking, refilling your water can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re in a remote area. Here are some tips to help you refill your water on the go:
Plan Your Route
Before you hit the trail, make sure you have a plan for where you’ll be able to refill your water. Research the area you’ll be riding in and look for streams, lakes, or other water sources along your route. Make sure you have a water filter system or purification tablets with you so you can safely drink water from natural sources.
Carry Extra Water
If you’re not sure where you’ll be able to refill your water, it’s always better to carry extra. This will help ensure that you don’t run out of water and become dehydrated. Consider carrying a hydration bladder in addition to water bottles so you can carry more water on longer rides.
FAQs – How to carry water when bikepacking
What are some options for carrying water when bikepacking?
There are a few different options for carrying water when bikepacking. One popular option is to use water bottles mounted on your bike frame, either in bottle cages or attached with bottle mounts. Another option is to use a hydration reservoir, which can be carried in a backpack or mounted directly to your bike frame. Some bikepackers also choose to carry a water filter or purification tablets so they can refill their water from natural sources along the way.
How much water should I carry when bikepacking?
The amount of water you should carry when bikepacking depends on a few factors, such as the length of your trip, the temperature and climate, and your personal hydration needs. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to carry at least two liters of water per day. If you’re traveling in a hot, dry climate, you may need to carry more water than that.
How can I save weight when carrying water?
Water is heavy, and it can add a lot of weight to your bikepacking setup. One way to save weight is to bring a water filter or purification tablets and refill your water from natural sources along the way. You can also consider using soft water bottles or collapsible hydration bladders, which take up less space when empty. Additionally, you can plan your route to include stops at places where you can refill your water, such as public water fountains, campgrounds, or restaurants.
What should I do if I run out of water while bikepacking?
Running out of water when you’re bikepacking can be a serious problem, especially if you’re in a remote area with no access to clean water. To prevent this from happening, it’s always a good idea to carry more water than you think you’ll need. If you do run out of water, try to find a natural water source and use your water filter or purification tablets to make it safe to drink. You can also ask other travelers or locals if they know of any water sources nearby.
How can I keep my water from freezing when bikepacking in cold weather?
When bikepacking in cold weather, it’s important to keep your water from freezing. To do this, you can carry insulated water bottles or a hydration reservoir with an insulated tube. You can also carry a thermos filled with hot water or tea to drink throughout the day. If your water does freeze, try to thaw it by placing it in a warm spot, such as inside your sleeping bag, or by holding it close to your body while you ride.