Have Clean Water, Will Travel

Because of the recent consumerism boom all around the world, it has become easier and more affordable for people to travel across the globe to various and exotic destinations. It has now become effortless for people to observe and absorb other people’s cultures because they can actually immerse themselves in their other worlds. One of the most favorite things globetrotters and backpackers do on their travels is to sample the local cuisine. And of course it goes without saying that stuffing oneself means one also has to gulp down a lot of water (especially if the specialty is pepper-based).

But if a person is not careful or meticulous enough, he or she could get sick or have discomfort due to the water he or she drinks. So before you go to any destination, be it local or foreign, it is best to do some research about the place first, to find out how its water situation is. In some countries, clean water is considered a luxury that people might find it necessary to brush their teeth using bottled water.

In most cases bottled is the easiest way to go, as it is your guarantee of safety and cleanliness. However, it should also be noted that in some countries, people use empty bottles, refill them with tap water and pass it off as purified and/or filtered to make more profit. To avoid being duped this way, always check the seal for tampering.

If you really want to be sure, there are even more precautions you can take. If you are planning to travel somewhere close and will only stay for a few days, it could be more convenient to buy a small supply at your local grocery store to last you for your stay. Make sure the containers are clean and leak-free. If this is not possible you can opt to buy bottled fizzy water (in place of normal bottled water) in your destination, and because it is fizzed, you can be assured that what you are drinking is not straight from the tap. You can also purchase a portable filter straw, which is good for filtering up to 500 ml of liquid. But if you really want to be sure, find a way to boil it, as it is the surest way to make sure it is clean.

Wherever you go and whatever you do, remember to stay hydrated, as drinking plenty of clean water will ensure that you can travel for miles on end.