Menu
Camping Tip Number One· Always stay hydrated! If you do not like drinking tasteless water, just use water enhancers.
You have probably heard of the 8×8 rule of water which states that you need 8 glasses of water every day to stay hydrated. Undoubtedly, water is one of the most important elements on the earth and it is essential for survival. When you are out there hiking, fishing or camping it is almost impossible to prevent dehydration because you focus on various activities.
While you are hiking, paddling, or just exploring unknown trails, you should drink enough water to keep your body hydrated as you sweat more during these activities. However, most people cannot drink gallons of water or they prefer soft drinks instead of plain water. BIG MISTAKE.
In the past 10 years, several companies developed some products called water enhancers which are used to give some flavor to plain water.
But which are the best water enhancers? What you should look for before getting this little water flavoring miracle? This article will explain everything in detail.
Undoubtedly there is a big variety of water enhancers on the market. Like every product category, there are the bad ones and the good ones. The good news is that we have done detailed research to help you with your buying decision. We highly recommend that you should read our buying guide before selecting the best water enhancer for you.
First of all, you should know that the water percentage of the human body is approximately 70%. Consequently, it is highly important to drink water constantly especially when you are working out or enjoying outdoor activities. However, most of us do not enjoy drinking plain water, and many times we grab a cola or another soft drink to quench our thirst which is not really healthy due to the high sugar composition.
Thanks to water enhancers you will be able to drink more water. Water enhancers are flavored agents in small bottles that you can add to your water bottle. Therefore, you will have a nice and healthy drink that will not only keep you hydrated but also provide you with vitamins. They come in liquid or powder formulas in little bottles.
Surprisingly, the sugar levels of these small wonders are extremely low so you will not have to worry about calories or they use stevia instead of sugar. Most of them contain Vitamin B, minerals, electrolytes, Vitamin Cand other key nutrients.
While water enhancers contain useful and healthy nutrients and make your water taste better, you should not forget that they consist of artificial chemicals, but not all of them! You should choose the best water enhancers that do not contain dangerous substances. Of course, I know how annoying it is to read these small food labels and search for the ingredients of the product one-by-one. We did this “difficult” job for you and managed to list out the 10 best water enhancers on the market.
Firstly, water enhancers will not only help you stay hydrated but also energized. If you can barely get yourself on the trail, you might have a lack of energy. These liquid-water enhancers sometimes contain caffeine, electrolytes, and vitamins to give you a good energy boost.
Many years ago, I was exploring the wilderness with a friend in Arizona (Sedona) and after some hours I felt really dehydrated and I was so exhausted I could barely keep my eyes open. Water was not enough.
My friend gave me a drink (contained a Mio water enhancer) and I felt my energy coming back again! I was so surprised that since then, I cannot go out there without my “tasty” water.
Whatever situation you are, you should avoid drinking soft drinks. Most water flavor enhancers are safe, but you should always read the ingredients list before getting a product. Some things are misleading or some companies use different names for harmful ingredients and make the description more complex for the average customer.
There is no doubt that water flavor liquids are artificial substances, but there are some of them which are very beneficial for us outdoor enthusiasts. Before you get a product you should always check the back label ingredient list. Personally, I would ignore the front label completely because almost all companies use fancy labels or health claims to lure customers into buying the product. Companies use some words to grab your attention like zero-sugar or all-natural water enhancers.
Zero-Sugar or No-sugar: Sugar has different names like syrup, fructose, corn sweetener, sucralose, or sucrose. The last two ingredients may have harmful effects.
All-natural-Organic: There is no organic water enhancer. The product might contain some fruit but the amount is definitely unimportant.
Fruit water enhancer: Some water enhancers claim that they contain natural fruit ingredients but this is not true. They are just fruit-flavored.
| Image | Product | Highlights | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Nuun Sport: Electrolyte Drink Tablets | 4 tubes (40 servings) Different Flavors Suitable for all activities Non-GMO ingredients Contains electrolytes | Sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium |
  | MiO Strawberry Watermelon Liquid Water Enhancer | Convenient small bottle Natural Flavor No Calories 1 Squeeze per 8 fl oz serving | Water, Malic Acid, Gum Arabic, Citric Acid, small amount of Sucralose And Acesulfame Potassium (Sweeteners), Potassium Citrate, Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate, Red 40, Potassium Sorbate (Preservative) |
  | Mio Black Cherry Energy Booster | Provides Energy and Hydration Vitamins Contains Caffeine You can keep it in your bag, no need to be refrigerated | Water, Citric Acid, Caffeine, Contains Less Than 2% Of Taurine, Guarana Extract, Ginseng Extract (Panax), Niacinamide, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, Natural Flavor, Sucralose And Acesulfame Potassium (Sweeteners), Sodium Citrate, Potassium Citrate, Gum Arabic, Sucrose Acetate Isobutyrate, Red 40, Blue 1, Potassium Sorbate (Preservative). |
  | True Lemon Enhancer Bulk Pack | 100% Natural No Sugar No Calories | Lemon, Oil, and juice |
  | SweetLeaf Stevia Water Drops | Gluten-Free product Award-winning water enhancer Zero Sugar only Stevia Extract Evaluated by FDA | Vegetable Glycerin, Purified Water, Citric Acid, Malic Acid, Natural Flavor, Stevia Leaf Extract, Sodium Citrate |
  | SweetLeaf Sweet Drops Flavored Stevia | Non-glycemic-response sweetener No Calories Won 25 International Awards | Purified water, stevia leaf extract, water-soluble dietary fiber, natural flavors, citric acid, potassium sorbate (preservative). |
  | CELSIUS Coconut On-the-Go Powder Stick Packs, Zero Sugar | Accelerates your metabolism It is clinically proven Helps you to burn body fats Caffeinated enhancer gives you an energy boost | Citric Acid, Sucralose, Black Tea Powder, Natural Flavor. |
  | Zipfizz Healthy Energy Drink Mix | Offers 4-6 hours of energy Vitamins Gluten-Free No Sugar Electrolytes | Citric Acid, Potassium Carbonate, Glucose Polymers, Malic Acid, Calcium Ascorbate, Natural Bing Cherry Flavor, Magnesium Amino Acid Chelate, Potassium Bicarbonate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Beet Root (for color), Caramel (for color), Silica, Potassium Citrate, Taurine, Sucralose, dl-alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, Zinc Bisglycinate Chelate, Manganese Gluconate, Grape Seed Extract, Niacin, Selenium-L-Methionine Complex, Cyanocobalamin, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Folic Acid, Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, Xylitol, Thiamin Mononitrate, Chromium Nicotinate Glycinate Chelate, Copper Citrate, and Methylcobalamin. |
  | Wyler’s Light Powder Packets Lemonade | 96 Servings stored in 12 boxes Low calories (85% fewer than common drinks) High levels of Vitamin C Gorgeous taste | citric acid, maltodextrin, potassium citrate, natural flavors, aspartame*, contains 2% or less of the following: ascorbic acid (vitamin c), salt, magnesium oxide, acesulfame potassium, tricalcium phosphate, artificial color, yellow 5 lake. |
  | Pure Inventions Cranberry + Elderberry Water Infusion Drops | Does not contain sugar or artificial dyes Gluten-free product Convenient small bottle Antioxidant | Cranberry (fruit) Powder, Cranberry (fruit) Extract, Cranberry (juice) concentrate, Elderberry (fruit) Extract, Red Raspberry (leaf) Extract, Ural Licorice (Root) Extract, purified water, vegetable glycerin, proprietary blend of natural flavors, stevia (leaf) extract, Lohan (fruit) extract, citric acid |
Undoubtedly, a healthy energy boost full of electrolytes and vitamins is a must for every hiker, paddler, backpacker, or angler. A water enhancer should not only enhance your water taste but also offer a plethora of nutrients designed for sports activities. We tested multiple products before compiling this in-depth guide and it took us almost one month to test them one-by-one.
Highlights
Key Features
You can simply mix one tablet with water and you will have a great drink full of electrolytes to keep you hydrated all day long. The package contains 4 tubes with 4 flavors (fruit punch, grape, strawberry-lemonade, and a tropical mix. When you are paddling or backpacking you will definitely sweat. This drink will give you all the electrolytes you need to replace the lost body water by offering you a nice and tasty drink.
Another great benefit you will see is that you will increase water consumption. You can use it everywhere and every time as the tubes are really small so you can toss them into your backpack.
Surprisingly, there is no sugar only stevia which is far better than normal sugar. Additionally, it contains safe coloring substances as they are natural made of spirulina (green seaweed) and vegetables like beet juice.
Highlights
Key Features
Mio water enhancers are very popular and most people associate the brand with the best water enhancers on the market. The label says 0% added sugar and that’s almost true. This water enhancer contains sucralose which is an artificial sweetener but the amount is absolutely negligible and safe.
It is a healthy option to make you drink more water during the day. I am sure that with this little bottle you will be able to follow the 8X8 rule of water.
In addition, you can stash this small bottle in your backpack and take it wherever you want. If you are a watersport enthusiast we would highly recommend this product because the bottle is waterproof. Generally speaking, you should avoid powder water enhancers if you are close to the water.
Highlights
Key Features
Another great Mio product that will help you make the most out of your favorite backpacking trip. It is compatible with different diets and will give you a good energy boost because it contains caffeine. If you will follow the suggested servings, you will need one bottle per month and the package has 12 bottles. Hence, it is a value for money option.
To be honest, I love this water enhancer because it does not contain artificial coloring ingredients and it gives me the energy I need. Moreover, Vitamin B6 and B12 are very important because it forms hemoglobin that carries the oxygen through your body.
Highlights
Key Features
True to its name, it is one of the best water enhancers as it is all-natural and contains only three simple substances (Lemon, Juice, and Oil) and absolutely zero sweeteners! You can add some in your water bottle and believe me you will drink water every half an hour!
Honestly, when I tested different water enhancers, I was looking for one that will be like a fresh-squeezed fruit and lemon is one of my favorite. The box contains several powder packs and you can just add this into your insulated water bottle, shake the drink and enjoy it.
Highlights
Key Features
Although this water enhancer comes only in Lemonade Rasberry flavor, it will be the nicest flavor that you have ever drunk. It is like drinking a nice soft drink without worrying about the harmful ingredients it may contain. It is evaluated as a safe product by FDA and contains 0% sugar and gluten.
If you are looking for the perfect flavor, you should not look further. It is the greatest alternative for soft drinks that will encourage you to drink more water.
The only sweetness here comes from Stevia which is an all-natural ingredient. Some people believe that if you add something into water it will make it less hydrating but it is not true of course. Two drops of this water enhancer are more than enough and the package contains 6 bottles.
Highlights
Key Features
Water is not only refreshing but also hydrating. You cannot enjoy any outdoor activity if you are dehydrated. Of course, you can drink plain water, but if your water tastes better you will also drink more water. The SweetLeaf Drops should definitely be on the list with the best water enhancers as it does not contains sugar and its ingredients are pure.
The fact that it does not contain artificial sweeteners is very important, especially for outdoor backpackers. The Stevia extract gives a slightly sweet flavor and it has zero side effects.
If you like Chocolate, Caramel, Vanilla or Coconut, you should definitely go for the SweetLead Enhancer. Additionally, there are no artificial dyes and if you have a special dietary plan it will not be affected at all.
Highlights
Key Features
This is a unique formula that contains healthy nutrients and substances that will help you stay fit and hydrated. If you need an extra energy kick, you should choose this product. It contains caffeine and some key vitamins for high energy activities like paddling or mountain hiking.
Studies indicate that after flavoring plain water, you will drink twice the amount that you drunk before adding water enhancers. The Celsius powder sticks have a low calory profile and do not contains preservatives or artificial dyes.
The package contains 14 sticks but you should not use more than 2 sticks per day. Use one stick for 12 ounces of water.
Highlights
Key Features
Say goodbye to those days when you had to buy energy drinks. 
These water enhancers are a good choice for everyone who has taste issues or looks for something unique that will provide good hydration and vitamins. Many sportspeople suggest this water flavorings as they are considered to be made of high-quality elements and after many tests, I can ascertain that too.
Whether you are working out, paddling, or just enjoying nature in the wilderness, a healthy sports-drink is everything you need. It will rejuvenate your energy and also help you to release energy easily.
Highlights
Key Features
Considered as a low-cost water flavoring, but it is one of the best water enhancers you can find if you need Vitamin C. It contains aspartame as a sweetener and it is better than drinking soft drinks or common energy drinks. It is no secret that Vitamin C has impressive benefits which include balancing blood pressure and preventing chronic diseases.
The Wyler’s Light Powder packages will definitely prevent dehydration and help your body to recover from the lack of energy, sleep, or an exhausting day. The brand offers 4 flavors, but I would like to list out the lemonade flavor which caught my attention.
Highlights
Key Features
Our last review is a product that will boost your metabolism and also offer you a nice refreshing drink. Many people use this water enhancer because it comes in a convenient small pipette bottle which you can store in your backpack. Another great feature I would like to underline is that it does not contain artificial coloring substances and the color comes from pure ingredients like cranberries, elderberries etc.
If you cannot drink the recommended 8 glasses of water, you should definitely start using a water enhancer. More specifically, you will need something that will make your water tasting outstanding and more specifically I would recommend this Pure invention Cranberry-Elderberry drops because it approaches the taste of natural fruits.
Finally, it would be important to mention that the sweet taste comes from Stevia and juice fruit and not from sucralose, aspartame, or classic crystallized sugar.
Lastly, these drops include polyphenols which reduce inflammations and also prevent many diseases.
Q: Is Electrolyte Replenishment Important?
A: Just to let you know, electrolytes are substances in your blood that help your body functions to work balanced. I would compare it to car gas. If you have not enough gas in your car it will stop working!!
Moreover, electrolytes prevent cramps and help you to replace the water you lose through your sweat.
Q: Is there any product on the market that is 100% natural?
A: The answer is yes and no. Although many companies claim that their products are all-natural, it is actually not completely true. For example, the True Lemon enhancer contains only three ingredients but also citric acid which is an artificial element. However, you should just read the back labels and choose the best water enhancers with the less artificial ingredients.
Q: Should I choose a liquid or powder water enhancer?
A: This depends on the activity you are going to do. If you are paddling or enjoying sports near the water you should go for liquid enhancers. Powder sticks can easily get wet and if you do not notice that water came in, mold will develop in the package. On the other hand, powder packs are really convenient when it comes to storage.
Q: I need a water flavoring that will give me more power. What ingredients would you recommend?
A: As we stated in our buying guide, there are several substances that you should look for like caffeine or vitamins. Caffeine will boost your energy almost immediately.
Q: Can I consume multiple water enhancers per day? Are there any specific servings?
A: Every water enhancer comes with instructions which you should read carefully. Usually, you can have only one serving per day and try not to overdo it.
Q: Can I get addicted to water enhancers?
A: Of course you can! These drinks provide you high levels of energy and your body might get used to them. You should follow the instructions and keep them away from kids.
© 2021 by OutdoorStuffGudies.com
OutdoorStuffGudies.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
