There are three main factors that will determine how much water you need to take with you.
- Intensity level of the trail
During a hiking trail, you lose body fluids through perspiration and by breathing. The more intense the trail the harder your body needs to work and the more water you will need to replace.
- Personal particular needs
No two people are the same. For some people 3 liters in 6 hours will be sufficient in challenging weather conditions while the next person will need at least 6 liters in 6 hours. You need to act according to your own particular needs.
- Climate and weather conditions
In hot or humid conditions the general rule of thumb is a liter per hour per person. Once again individual needs should be taken into account. Altitude should also be accounted for. In higher altitudes it may not be so hot, but the air is drier. At lower altitudes in mild conditions 500 ml per person per hour is a good standard.
