Water is important. Our bodies are filled with it, the brain and the heart are 73% water, muscles are almost 80%, and even our bones clock in at just above 30% water composition. All in all, our bodies are more than half water. Yet despite all of this—and the fact that water is usually free and abundant—most of us still struggle to reach our recommended daily intake.
To be fair, sometimes it is tough. After a grueling run in mid-July when the heat radiates off the city streets, water is a luxurious life saving liquid. But on any other monotonous Tuesday somewhere between work and play, the thought of getting out of your seat to seek out a tall glass of some flavorless, neutral beverage seems less appealing. But just because you don't feel like drinking it doesn't mean your body doesn't need it.
Fortunately, we’ve managed to round up some water bottles, reservoirs, gadgets, and tools that all make it easier to reach your recommended daily intake. On average, that's about 15 cups, or just under 3 liters, or 6 normal size packaged water bottles per day. That being said, overall intake varies from person to person, so here is a helpful tool to calculate your recommended daily water intake goal.
Of course, you don’t have to drink strictly water throughout the day. A little flavor isn't completely off the table.  But what you do want to avoid is slugging down a double dose of sugar or other unhealthy sweeteners with your water. Tea is a great alternative to coffee, and according to the National Cancer Institute, it may even play a role in cancer prevention. Here’s a favorite blend. Just try to stay away from sugary soft drinks; if they can remove rust and do this to teeth, imagine what they’ll do to your insides if consumed regularly.
Inspired yet? Check out some of the products below that'll help you get back on track to proper hydration.
Nathan – FlexShot Water Bottle – $20.00
This bottle is made of a semi-soft material that allows it to be rolled up and makes it nearly indestructible. It can easily be taken to the gym and, once it's emptied out, thrown in your bag without taking up hardly any space.
Buy the Nathan – FlexShot Water Bottle  from REI or Amazon.
MyHydrate – Smart Hydration System – $39.99
MyHydrate is a company that manufactures and designs water bottles that track your daily water intake. While the price point may come as a shock, this bottle has the features to back it up. The mouthpiece is made without any crevices in order to minimize any possible bacteria buildup. It features double-insulation so it doesn’t sweat. The bottom is coated in rubber to give it some extra grip. Oh, and the smart system tracks your daily intake and offers reminders throughout the day. It can even tell the outside temperature and change its recommendations accordingly.
Buy the MyHydrate Smart Hydration System Water Bottle for $39.99
Montana Tea &Â Spice Trading LLC – Evening in Missoula Bagged Tea – $12.25/24pk
There are countless options when it comes to tea, but we’re partial to this blend. Slightly minty with a honey aftertaste, it immediately relaxes you.  As an herbal tea, it's caffeine free, plus it packs enough flavor that you won't need to add sweeteners. Made in Missoula, Montana this mix is offered in loose and bagged forms.
Buy Montana Tea & Spice Trading LLCÂ – Evening in Missoula Bagged Tea from Amazon or Montana Tea & Spice Trading LLC.Â
CamelBak – Zoid Pack – $65.00
Hydration packs are great for anything from long hikes to music festivals. Basically, whenever you know you’ll need more water than your arms can carry – regardless of the reason – bringing a hydration pack is a safe bet. Just be ready for friends to ask for a drink. It can get a little weird when you nurse them with your tube…
Buy the CamelBak Zoid Hydration Pack from Amazon or CamelBak.
Nalgene – Tritan Wide Mouth Water Bottle 1-Quart – $9.99
Nalgenes are made in the USA and trusted by countless campers, climbers, and backpackers. These are BPA-free, so you don’t need to stress about any possible health risks. They also come in countless different body/cap color combinations.
Buy the Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth Water Bottle from Amazon (prices vary by color).
Go Stainless – $12+
While not dishwasher safe, stainless steel bottles like this version found at a discount retailer like TJMaxx makes crisp, odorless water easy. Wash with soapy water and refill with filtered water and you've got a smart solution you can take anywhere. For a similar bottle on Amazon, check out these options:
Vacuum Insulated by Gaboss, $13
Nuun – Nuun All Day Hydration Tablets – $7.50/15pk
If you’re really having trouble getting down the recommended amount of water daily, then grab these tablets from Nuun. The makers of Nuun pitch the product as a sort of psychological and physiological hydration hack.  They claim that adding flavor to water triggers your body’s natural response to drink more water up to 90% – basically tricking your body into craving water as much as you want that Coke or sugary sports drink.
Scientific claims aside, Nuun tablets make water taste great without the ~6 teaspoons of sugar that a 20 oz. Gatorade gives you. Plus, each tablet is packed with 17 vitamins and minerals. So drink up. Your brain and your body will thank you.
Buy Nuun All Day Hydration Tablets for $7.50 per tube of 15 tablets.
Conclusion
Whether you're chained to a cubicle or hiking a trail, there's no reason not to be properly hydrated throughout the day. Got an excuse? We've got an answer:
- Lugging around water is a pain. Going to the gym? Roll up a FlexShot. Camping or biking? One word: CamelBak.
- I hate the taste of water. See the Nuun tablets or the Evening in Missoula Blend.
- I try, but I can't keep track of how much I need to drink. MyHydrate to the rescue.
- Whoa, I'm not paying $20-$40 for  a water bottle. Get a Nalgene for $9.99. Refill this thing two and a half times instead of buying an environment-killing prepackaged bottle of water and you've made your money back.
Does that cover it? Okay, then. Drink up!
