Should I wait until I feel thirsty to drink water while hiking?

No. By the time you actually feel thirsty, you may already be somewhat dehydrated. Drinking small amounts regularly throughout your walk is much better than waiting for thirst to kick in.

How often should I drink water on a hike?

A mouthful every fifteen or twenty minutes is a sensible approach. This keeps you steadily hydrated without the urgent need to pee that follows gulping down a huge amount all at once.

Do I need to drink as much water in winter when I'm not sweating?

Yes, you do. You lose a surprising amount of fluid just through breathing harder in cold air, and you're still sweating under those layers—you just don't notice it as much.

Food for the Fells

Dark Yellow Means You’ve Already Waited Too Long

Most walkers know they should drink water, but waiting until you’re thirsty is like waiting for the petrol light before you fill up—you’re already running low. Here’s what your body is actually telling you on the hills, and why sipping little and often matters more than you might think.

26 August 20267 min read