When you’re flying out for your next adventure, you can absolutely carry an empty reusable water bottle onto the plane. Fill it up once you’re past security and stay hydrated without wasting money or plastic.
But what about when you land — especially if you’re headed somewhere remote, like the mountains of Baja or the jungle trails of Central America? It’s easy to assume bottled water will always be available, but depending on where you’re going, that’s not always the case.
At Ventana Travel, we’ve explored nearly every corner of Mexico, from island dives to desert hikes, and we’ve learned one thing: hydration is everything. Here’s what our crew and community of travelers recommend for staying safely hydrated wherever you roam.
The SmartWater & Sawyer Combo
Many ultralight hikers swear by SmartWater bottles paired with a Sawyer Squeeze filter. This lightweight setup removes bacteria and parasites — perfect for refilling from streams or taps in rural areas. Just remember: these filters don’t remove viruses.
To cover all bases, carry chemical treatments or a UV purifier as a backup. A small Steripen or GRAYL Ultrapress bottle purifies water completely — killing viruses, bacteria, and parasites.
Real-World Travel Advice
If you’re hiking for a day, buy bottled water before leaving your base town.
For multi-day treks, go with a certified guide — they’ll provide potable water and know safe refill points.
For everyday travel, a simple system works wonders:
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A collapsible water bottle for flights and airports
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Rehydration salts or electrolyte powders (like Liquid I.V. from our shop) for long, hot days
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A backup filter or purifier for unpredictable sources
Filters That Actually Work
Travelers we trust recommend:
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GRAYL Geopress or Ultrapress – best all-in-one purifier
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LifeStraw Go – great basic filter, but note: it does not remove viruses
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Epic Water Filters – removes chemicals and heavy metals
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Katadyn BeFree – compact, lightweight squeeze option
If you’re headed to places where tap water can cause trouble (hello, Central America), choose a full purifier over a filter. It’s a small investment for peace of mind — and it might just save your trip.
Hydration Is More Than Just Water
Don’t forget your electrolytes. Between long hikes, salt air, and tropical heat, even clean water isn’t enough to keep you energized. Pack electrolyte packets like Liquid I.V. or simple Nuun tablets — both fit easily in your carry-on and help prevent dehydration headaches and fatigue.
Final Travel Tips
Before you fly, browse ventanatravel.com for more Baja travel ideas, gear recommendations, and real-world adventure stories from our guides. And when you pack, remember:
✅ Bring an empty bottle through airport security
✅ Refill and stay hydrated before your flight
✅ Always filter or purify when in doubt
✅ Keep electrolytes handy — your body will thank you
Because whether you’re diving in La Ventana, hiking in the Sierra, or exploring the Revillagigedo Islands, water isn’t just hydration — it’s fuel for your next adventure.