Once, in hundred degree weather, I was fully hydrated while hunting. I began to feel weak, sat down and grew weaker. I drank more water. Then it occurred to me that I was salt deprived. I rarely use external salt on my meals. With no salt tablets I ran the back of my hand through my sweaty armpits and other places, licking them clean. Revival took less than ten minutes. Hence---a source of salt is essential.

That's interesting. I thought that was a military secret.

Goat Creek had a good point. While water is very important, you also loose a lot of sodium and other electrolites through sweating. You should always have a means of replacing these electrolites, plus stocking up on them in advance of a trip isn't a bad idea.

drink quite a bit of sports drinks--such as Gatorade--during the days before a planned trip. Make water your primary beverage during the excursion, then back to the sports drinks afterwards. Make sure that you have some salty foods with you during a trip...or at least salt tablets.

Even for a simple day hike, you never know the dangers awaiting you, so being properly educated, and prepared will save you. If you are not a big salt user, a good source of protein and salt, nuts, like a single tube of Planters peanuts, cashews, etc. a salt added trail mix, with dried fruits and nuts. Excellent. There are numerous protein bars that have ground fruit mixed in. I like to slam down a Vitamin water and a small Gatorade. After that I drink only water. You really want to eat small amounts of trail mix and protein bars, as you go, to give a sustained energy burn. Fruit will give you minerals and calories, to assist with the upkeep of your energy. Yes it is indeed a good idea to carry small bottle of Salt and glucose tablets, especially if you are not a big table salt user.