Why, yes, we DO have running water while hiking in the woods. It pours out of natural springs (sometimes with a pipe installed) and ripples down streams. Oh, that’s not what you meant? You’re right, we only find faucets in “civilization.” 
So how do we get clean water that’s safe to drink? We carry a filter with us that turns any water we find into yummy, drinkable water. The biggest challenge is walking to the spring at the end of a tiring day of hiking. Here is the process:
- Carry empty water containers to water source (ideally a level walk near shelter…but sometimes a steep, long walk away)
- Fill collection bags with “dirty” water
- Screw on filter and squeeze clean water into containers for use
- Carry water back to camp (reservoirs for drinking while hiking, bottles to pour into pot for cooking, extra in collection bags to filter for later use) Remember, water is HEAVY so only carry what is really needed!
Because we use a small, lightweight “squeeze” filter, it takes awhile to fill all of our water containers. At first this frustrated me. But eventually I decided to consider this time as “zen time” to relax and simply enjoy the moments. Usually the water locations are scenic, with colorful leaves, rustling trees, and gurgling water. 
Next time you turn on your faucet at home, take a moment to be grateful for instant, clean, safe water…uncommon in much of the world!
The Big Epic 
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I know it’s not quite the same, but I have to carry water to my little caravan. A bit different from camping as the caravan has sinks, loo and shower and it’s then you realise how much water you use. So these experiences highlight to us how precious are the resources our generations take for granted.
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