We’ve heard the rule over and over again: our bodies need at least eight glasses of water a day to stay healthy and hydrated. For some of us, however, eight glasses may seem almost impossible. For others, it is not enough. The truth is that each of our bodies is different and has different maintenance needs. However, when traveling in Breckenridge, Colorado, or any high-altitude area, it’s imperative to stay hydrated enough. While it may seem like drinking water is easy, you may be surprised at how much there really is to know.

  • What is all this fuss? In a high-altitude city like Breckenridge, the lower air pressure can cause moisture to evaporate from your skin and lungs. As a result, if you’re not careful, dehydration and altitude sickness can take over, leaving you not only nauseated and dizzy, but can become dangerous as your alertness is affected. However, proper hydration has health benefits for your immune system, skin, digestive system, mood, and even aids in weight loss. Since you’re likely to take advantage of the many outdoor activities that Breckenridge has to offer, proper hydration will also boost your energy level.
  • How much is enough? Following the eight glasses a day rule can be tricky, especially when one person’s glass of water is a different size than another’s. Also, each of us has a different body type and size, so we need something a little more specialized for us as individualized. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water. So if you weigh 160 pounds, you’ll need 80 ounces a day to stay adequately hydrated.
  • What about caffeine and alcohol? Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages work exactly the opposite of water by dehydrating our bodies. Still, there are some great coffee shops in Breckenridge, as well as a plethora of pubs with delicious craft beers on tap. It’s okay to have caffeine and alcohol (in moderation), but you’ll need to drink an extra eight ounces of water for each caffeinated or alcoholic beverage you drink each day. And while it’s tempting to enjoy a hot cup of coffee while admiring the view from your Breckenridge condo, avoid brewing coffee or another form of caffeine first thing in the morning. By starting your day with a tall glass of water, you’ll refresh what you’ve lost overnight and prevent morning dehydration. Also consider avoiding alcohol and caffeine for the first day or so you are acclimating to the altitude.
  • How can I make this easy? If you find it difficult to include all this water consumption in your daily routine, try making water an accessory. Carry a stainless steel water bottle (like a SIGG) with you at all times, taking sips throughout the day. Keep a bottle in your backpack when hiking, skiing, snowboarding, or cruising around the town of Breckenridge. Keep one handy at your work desk and one close by when you’re home. Remember that glass or stainless steel bottles are much safer storage methods than plastic, which leaches into the water as the bottle wears. (Plastic water bottles that have a 1 or 2 symbol on the bottom are fine to drink once, but you should recycle them rather than reuse them.)
  • How does this translate to the mountains? At 6,000 feet above sea level, you will be inhaling and exhaling twice as much moisture as you are used to at sea level. Considering Breckenridge has a base altitude of 9,600 feet, you’ll need even more than your daily dose of water. Additionally, participating in any athletic activity will also lead to you sweating more moisture. Your best bet is to spend a day acclimatizing to the altitude. Drink water throughout the day and pay attention to your body. If you start to feel dizzy or lightheaded, be sure to rest and keep your body running with more water.

Staying hydrated is a lifestyle. When visiting Breckenridge, it is more necessary than ever. So slow down and keep that water bottle close. Your body will thank you in no time!