The first thing that comes to mind when choosing a camping site with a water source is how much fun you are going to have from participating in the various water sport activities such as kayaking, fishing or swimming etc. but as a lover of the outdoors it’s important to remember that water isn’t for recreation purposes only. It sustains the life of the environment we love exploring hence why we should conserve these water sources to protect it. Apart from protecting the environment, it’s important to protect yourself as contaminated water comes with a number of illnesses and this is where purification comes in. With that being said, in this article we will be discussing camping water hacks and how you can conserve and purify the water you use while on your adventure.
Ways you can purify your water before use
Some water sources in the great outdoors can be deceiving as they may look super clean with their crystal clear appearance but parasites may be lurking in the water. Drinking such water without using any of the purification methods available can cause you to suffer from some seriously unpleasant symptoms which will most likely ruin the whole trip. To avoid ruining a trip that you may have planned for a while, here are some water purification methods you can use.
Boiling your water
This is the well known and commonly used strategy to make water safe for usage. You can do this using your campfire or portable water heater. Boiling your water kills the disease causing microorganisms including bacteria and viruses. It is advised to do so for at least 1- 3 minutes and allow it to cool before use. It’s a simple process when you have the right equipment available but in case you don’t you may have to improvise or look for an alternative method. Also note that you can use this method in combination with other methods. The down side of boiling is that it doesn’t remove heavy metals and pollutants from the water.
Chemical Treatment
This treatment method comes in two basic types; chlorine and iodine. The chlorine option is available in tablets that you can put in your water and let it dissolve for about 15 minutes. Apart from the tablets, liquid household bleach can also be used as most chlorine bleach contains 5% of chlorine. If you opt on using the latter, ensure that first the liquid bleach is not expired and it doesn’t contain any fragrance. Use half of a teaspoon of bleach to 5 gallons of water then wait 30 minutes before drinking the water. Iodine which can also be purchased in tablet or crystal form works the same. Note that iodine should not be used by pregnant women. Your water may not taste the best after this treatment not to mention you should not use this method too often.
Water Filters
This is another easy and convenient method you can use while camping. Water filters work by straining the water through an internal element using a hand pump or in a sip tube. A squeeze water filter for example is perfect for camping because it is lightweight and can be put in your backpack. Its microscopic holes don’t let anything harmful pass with the water. It’s also a life saver in any emergency situation.
UV rays purification system
UV lights stop microbes from reproducing, reducing their potential for harm. One way you can use this method is by filling in your plastic or glass water bottles with filtered water and keeping the water under the sunlight. Remove any labels that may be stuck on your water bottle for easy penetration of the sun rays. Keeping the water bottle under the sun for 4 hours will do the job. If the weather is not on your side, you can buy UV water purification systems that deliver a measured dose of UV light. There are UV pens as well such as the SteriPEN which disrupts the DNA of the bacteria and viruses lurking in the water making them harmless.
Hacks you can use to conserve your water
Learning how to save water is a skill campers should consider sharpening especially if you are camping in a remote location. If you are not careful with your water, you might end up running out and that is a recipe for disaster. Here are some hacks you can use to conserve the water you bring with you.
Look at other efficient ways to clean up
Taking showers is one of the biggest consumers of water not only when camping but even in your home. You can effectively save on this water by using wipes or sponges. It may not be glamorous and all but it is quick and easy plus it will leave you refreshed. Also for your hands instead of constantly washing them, you could sanitizer as an alternative unless your hands are really dirty or muddy.
Find alternatives to using cutlery
You can either opt to use paper plates which can easily be cleaned by paper towels or you could also choose to eat your from a can. Once you are done having your meal, do not litter and dispose of them the right way.
Find efficient ways to use water when cooking
Don’t cook food that takes too much water to prepare like pasta. Go for things like quinoa. Use as little water as possible when washing your fruits.
Read More: Camping Cooking Tips | Top Camping Cooking Receipes