HOW TO HYDRATE FOR BACKCOUNTRY HUNTING - HYDRATION AND ELECTROLYTE TIPS

HOW TO HYDRATE FOR BACKCOUNTRY HUNTING - HYDRATION AND ELECTROLYTE TIPS

How to Hydrate for Backcountry Hunting

Cramping on a hunt is no joke. I’ve been there—deep in the backcountry, legs locking up so bad I couldn’t step over a downed log without triggering a full leg seize. And I wasn’t out of shape. I’d put in 10+ mile runs all summer, climbed thousands of feet in elevation, and trained hard in the gym. But none of that mattered when dehydration and electrolyte imbalance hit.

Over the years, I’ve had to figure this out the hard way—packing out bulls late into the night, dropping weight due to unbearable cramps, and feeling wiped even when my nutrition seemed solid. The missing piece? Hydration, and more specifically—electrolytes.

Why You Cramp (Even When You’re Fit)

You can be mentally tough and physically trained, but if you’re low on fluids and electrolytes, your body will shut you down. Your muscles don’t just need water—they need sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium to contract and recover properly. When those run low, cramping is almost guaranteed.

Dehydration also hits your brain. It can make you feel foggy, slow, and drained. And worst of all, you often don’t realize it’s happening until it’s too late.

Water Alone Isn’t Enough

Hydration isn’t just about guzzling water. In fact, drinking only water can dilute your bloodstream and create a dangerous condition called hyponatremia (low sodium). This is why electrolytes matter. If you’re sweating, breathing hard, and pounding miles—especially at altitude—you’re losing more than just H2O.

Plus, caffeine (which I love, by the way) acts as a diuretic. If you’re starting your morning with a strong cup of coffee or an energy drink, you’re already behind unless you’re balancing it with electrolytes.

My Two Go-To Products ( These are amazon affiliate links. No extra cost to you. Every purchase supports the mission.)

  1. Transparent Labs Hydrate – I use this every morning at home or at the truck before heading out. It’s clean, naturally sweetened, and includes the right blend of electrolytes. I’ve sold this brand at my gym for years because I trust it. Transparent Labs HYDRATE – https://amzn.to/44Ao5ov

  2. SaltStick Electrolyte Capsules – These are my backcountry go-to. Lightweight, unflavored, no mixing or mess. One capsule every hour with 10–12 oz of water and I’m good. I stash them in my bino harness for easy access. SaltStick Electrolyte Capsules – https://amzn.to/4enjnh9

Other Solid Brands to Consider:

Try these during training to make sure your body tolerates them.

Hydration Plan for Hunters

The Day Before the Hunt:

  • Start loading electrolytes. At minimum, drink one serving of Transparent Labs Hydrate in the evening.

Morning of the Hunt:

  • 32 oz of water + 2 scoops Transparent Labs Hydrate

  • Counter any caffeine with additional water/electrolytes

During the Hunt:

  • Drink 10–12 oz every 60–90 minutes

  • Take 1 SaltStick capsule per hour

  • Set reminders if needed—don’t wait until you feel thirsty

Evening Back at Camp:

  • Another 32 oz electrolyte drink

  • Top off your hydration to avoid overnight cramps and prep for the next day

Cool Weather Reminder: Don’t let the cold fool you. You still sweat and lose electrolytes even when it’s not hot. Stay consistent.

Signs You’re Dehydrated

  • Dark or smelly urine = dehydration

  • Completely clear urine every 20 minutes = overhydrated (electrolyte depletion)

  • Aim for light yellow—balanced hydration

Final Thoughts

Hunting is a test of endurance, discipline, and grit. But even the strongest engine dies if it runs dry. Get your hydration right, and you’ll go further, feel stronger, and recover faster.

If you found this helpful, check out the products I recommend (linked in the video description), and visit BackboneUnlimited.com to support the channel. We've got apparel made for this lifestyle—tees, hoodies, hats, and more.

Live relentless. Show your backbone. Stay hydrated. 

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