How to Safely Melt Snow To Use as Drinking Water on a Camping Trip

When you’re camping in winter and want a drink, you might be tempted to reach down and grab a handful of snow. That is not a good idea.

Eating snow can lower your body temperature, and it could even make you sick. Snow on the ground can appear in different colors, depending on what’s in it.

• Yellow snow might have urine, pollen or sand in it.
• Snow can turn pink or red when it contains algae or cyanobacteria.
• Black speckles in white snow are often dirt.

If you’re thirsty, look for freshly fallen snow, free of dirt and debris. Gather this snow and melt it in a pot over the stove. If you already have some water, pour a cup of it into the pot before putting in the snow. That will speed the melting and prevent the snow from scorching. Filter any previously unseen dirt or debris. Bring the liquid to a boil for several minutes to kill any harmful bacteria.

Once you have your clean drinking water, don’t let it freeze. During the day, slip your water bottle beneath layers of clothing so your body heat can help keep the water from freezing. You can also wrap your bottle with a piece of closed-cell foam. Overnight, put your water bottle in your sleeping bag with you.