“Hydrate or die” used to be the CamelBak slogan but it’s still good advice. Our bodies will begin showing symptoms of dehydration after losing only 2% of our normal water volume. While there are a few different types of dehydration, the most common type involve lowered levels of water and electrolytes (salts) from sweating or severe cases of diarrhea. If you’ve ever suffered from the symptoms of dehydration you understand how serious this problem could become. The effects of severe dehydration can last for days or months IF you survive.

It’s simple to make your own oral rehydration powder mix. I use the following recipe and then divide it into 1 quart portions and seal it in poly bags. I keep two of these packets in my EDC first aid kit. This way it can be quickly mixed directly into a 1 quart canteen of clean water when needed. This will make 2 quarts worth of solution. You can adjust the salt levels to your personal taste.

1 package of unsweetened drink mix, Lemon-Lime and Punch flavors are my favorites.

1 cup of sugar

1/2 tsp of iodized salt

1/2 tsp of potassium salt substitute (Morton Lite Salt)

If you ever need to use this, it’s important not to “guzzle it down”. Administer slowly and at regular intervals, especially to children.

For more information on the stages and symptoms of dehydration, CLICK HERE