Quick Answer
Aim for at least 3 liters of water per person in your get home bag to ensure a minimum of 24 hours of hydration in the event of an emergency.
Water Storage Options
When selecting a water storage container for your get home bag, consider using a combination of collapsible water bottles and a hydration bladder. A 1-liter collapsible water bottle is a compact and lightweight option that can be easily stowed away in a backpack. For longer trips or more extended emergencies, consider a 2-liter hydration bladder to stay hydrated.
Hydration Plan
To make the most of the water in your get home bag, create a hydration plan based on your activity level and climate. In hot and humid environments, aim to drink at least 1 liter of water per person per day. For cooler climates, aim for 0.5 to 0.75 liters per person per day. This will help you estimate the water needed for a 24-hour emergency situation.
Water Purification and Rationing
In the event of a water shortage or contamination, have a plan in place for water purification and rationing. Consider including a water filter or purification tablets in your get home bag. These can be used to make untreated water safe for drinking. To ration water, use the “rule of threes”: drink 3 liters of water per day for the first 24 hours, then reduce consumption to 1 liter per day for the next 24 hours, and finally to 0.5 liters per day for the final 24 hours. This will help extend the life of your water supply.
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