Water & Purification: Personal Planning Worksheet
Step 1: Assess Your Trip Conditions
1- Expected temperature range: _______ °F
2- Will water sources be frequent?
☐ Yes ☐ No (Plan for extra capacity)
3- Are you traveling in a high-altitude or arid environment?
☐ Yes (Expect increased hydration needs)
☐ No
4- Are water sources likely to be clear and flowing?
☐ Yes
☐ No (Expect filtration and additional treatment)
5- Are you in an area with known viruses (e.g., livestock, human activity)?
☐ Yes (Use chemical treatment or boiling in addition to filtration)
☐ No
Step 2: Select Your Purification Methods
1. Primary purification method (Choose one):
☐ Water filter (pump, gravity, squeeze)
☐ Chemical treatment (chlorine dioxide, iodine, Aquamira)
☐ UV purifier (e.g., SteriPEN)
☐ Boiling setup (stove + fuel)
2. Backup purification method:
☐ Extra purification tablets/drops
☐ Emergency filter (straw-style)
☐ Fireproof container for boiling
3. If traveling in freezing conditions, have you planned for non-filter methods?
☐ Yes ☐ No
Note: Filters can crack if water freezes; consider chemical treatment or boiling.4. Will you need to treat large amounts of water?
☐ Yes (Gravity filter or chemical treatment recommended)
☐ No
Step 3: Plan Your Water Storage & Hydration Strategy
1. Total water carrying capacity: ______ liters
Consider 2–4 liters for day hikes, 4–6+ liters for multi-day trips or hot/dry conditions.
2. Storage method(s) (Check all that apply):
☐ Hard bottle (e.g., Nalgene, stainless steel)
☐ Soft bottle (e.g., Smartwater, collapsible container)
☐ Hydration bladder (e.g., CamelBak, Osprey)
☐ Large-capacity storage (e.g., Dromedary bag, gravity bag)
3. Will you be in a desert or dry region requiring extra capacity?
☐ Yes ☐ No
4. How will you maintain electrolyte balance?
☐ Electrolyte tablets/powders (e.g., Nuun, Liquid IV)
☐ Salty snacks or natural electrolyte sources
☐ Both
5. Hydration habit strategy:
☐ Sip water regularly rather than chugging at intervals
☐ Set reminders for consistent hydration
☐ Monitor urine color to check hydration status
Step 4: Final Check & Contingency Planning
1. Have you researched water availability along your route?
☐ Yes ☐ No
2. Have you tested your purification method before the trip (e.g., with similar water conditions to ensure it works)?
☐ Yes ☐ No
3. Do you have an emergency hydration backup plan?
☐ Yes ☐ No
4. Are you prepared for unexpected dry sections?
☐ Yes ☐ No
By completing this worksheet, you ensure that your Water & Purification plan is well thought out, tailored to your trip, and optimized for safety and efficiency.
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