Traveling Off the Grid: How to Survive and Thrive in Water-Scarce Environments?
Although approximately 70% of the earth is covered in water, scarcity of this precious resource is increasingly a problem. A whopping 771 million people globally have no access to clean water. Water sustainability practices in light of the population boom is the solution to solving the clean water crisis and needs to be applied to all facets of our lives.
When we travel, we consume cultures, food, various amenities, and water. Often, tourists from locations without water problems continue to consume as they would at home even if in places where water is scarce. Off-the-grid travel in environments with limited water resources can be particularly challenging.
So, how does the off-the-grid tourist leaving a location with generous water supplies survive, much less thrive in a water-scarce environment? We’ve got some tips for enjoying an off-the-grid trip even if there isn’t a lot of water available.
Traveling off the grid
Remember that most remote locations will not have either cell phone service or internet, so careful planning is a must, especially when visiting places where water is scarce. Many of us are unprepared to face an emergency in a location where there is no outside contact. We reside in spots where water is always available. Yet, in an off-the-grid environment, lacking resources can have catastrophic consequences if we cannot call for help. If mobile and internet connections are lacking, our risks increase significantly.
Do your homework
If you are off to a remote location, research where you are going. Consider the kind of terrain you’ll be navigating and the weather there. Will you be hiking a considerable distance, or can you drive a vehicle close to your base camp? Where is the closest populated area, and what kind of roads will you be traveling if you need supplies? Consider what you may need to survive if you get stuck there. Can you manage unforeseen circumstances?
Assess local resources
If you will be hiking, camping, bunking in a cabin in the wilderness, or just visiting an area where water is scarce, you need to know your closest water source. Is there a body of water or a well nearby, or will you be collecting rainwater? Determine if your destination has water or if you need to bring it with you and how much.
Factor in your activities
If you plan on doing a lot of hiking, swimming, or physical activities, you’ll want to consider this when evaluating your water needs. Don’t limit your calculations to what you drink, but include water needed for bathing, washing, laundering, and eventual first aid necessities.
Making water last
Depending on where you are going and for how long, it’s a good idea to prep well.
Showering
If you are off for a short trip, take a good shower before you leave, as this can reduce how many showers you need and your water consumption. Wait as long as possible before showering again, especially if you are not doing anything particularly strenuous.
When you shower, turn the water on to get wet, then shut it off while lathering up. Turn the water back on only to rinse. Do the same when brushing your teeth.
Bring an exfoliating glove for deep cleaning if shower possibilities are few and far between. Please don’t wait for the shower to warm up before using it.
Use spray bottles
If you need to wash your hands and face, use a spray bottle filled with water to save when washing up.
Bring along body wipes
One method for keeping clean between showers is to use body wipes. Moist wipes allow you to freshen up, clean body parts, and remove the grime when showering or bathing isn’t an option.
Bring along dry shampoo
While this may not be a favorite, it can help between baths or showers. Find a brand you like and bring along enough for your off-the-grid travel.
Eco-friendly soap and natural water resources
Consider bathing if you do happen upon a natural water source while traveling. Natural water resources include a stream, lake, pond, river, etc. Make sure you use an eco-friendly soap if you decide to wash.
Plan meals with water conservation in mind
The more you cook, the more dishes you’ll need to wash. Plan one-pot meals or meals that require fewer dishes for preparation and consumption. Cook more than one meal at a time. Consider grilling to use fewer pans and dishes. Wipe your dishes down as soon as you have finished using them to remove excess food residue. Removal can aid in reducing washing needs. Boiling and steaming foods can leave pots and pans cleaner, and leftover cooking water can be used for other purposes.
Save gray rinse water for other uses
Rinse water from washing dishes, washing your hands, or showering can be used for other purposes, such as flushing or rinsing a toilet. Trashing toilet paper can reduce flushing needs. If water is scarce, consider not flushing after every urination waiting after several times before doing so. Consider composting solid waste if possible.
Recycle water from melted ice
If you bring a cooler for food or drinks, don’t toss the water from melted ice. You can repurpose water from melted ice for washing dishes, for yourself, or whatever is needed.
Collect rainwater
Even if you are in a water-scarce environment, it may still rain. Keep a bucket, pan, collapsible sink, or bottle on hand to collect rainwater as it descends. You can then use the water for washing and shore up dwindling water supplies.
Where can water be found?
If you are in the middle of the wilderness, your best bet is a natural water source; however, if you are on the road, you can most likely get a refill at campgrounds, both private and public, and at rest areas.
In conclusion
Even when traveling off the grid in water-scarce locations, there is no need to forego cleanliness or comfort. Reducing water usage and careful planning can aid in permitting water supplies to last much longer than expected and you’ll be doing yourself and planet earth a favor.
More Hiking and Outdoors Articles
