When the summer sun starts cranking up the heat (especially here in North Carolina!), hydration becomes more important than ever. Whether you’re heading out for a workout, chasing after your kids at the park, or just living your busy day-to-day life, staying hydrated can help you feel more energized, focused, and ready to take on the day.

But the truth is, most of us could use a few reminders and tricks to drink more water (without having to force it). These simple hydration tips will help you beat the heat, support your active lifestyle, and keep your body feeling its best all summer long.

1. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle Everywhere

This might be the easiest and most effective tip of all: bring a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Keep it in your bag, in the car, at your desk, or by your side during workouts.

Not only is it good for you, but it’s great for the environment too. Fewer plastic bottles = a happy planet.

Pro tip: find a water bottle you love—something easy to carry, fits in your cup holder, and maybe even keeps your water ice-cold for hours.

2. Stay Mindful of the Heat (and Your Sweat Output)

Hydration isn’t one-size-fits-all—especially in summer. If you’re sweating more due to the heat or higher activity levels, you’re losing not just water but important electrolytes too.

Pay attention to:

• How much you’re sweating during workouts 
• How often you’re in direct sun or high heat 
• Whether you’re feeling sluggish, dizzy, or getting headaches (all signs of dehydration) 

The more you sweat, the more intentional you need to be about replacing both water and electrolytes.

3. Try an Electrolyte Boost (DIY or Store-Bought)

When plain water isn’t cutting it—or when you’ve been sweating a lot—it’s a good idea to supplement with electrolytes. I’m a big fan of LMNT (sweetened with Stevia), but you can also make your own electrolyte drink at home!

Here’s a DIY summer hydration recipe to try:

Homemade Electrolyte Drink

• ½ cup coconut water 
• ½ cup no sugar added juice (like tart cherry or 100% orange juice) 
• 1–2 pinches of sea salt 
• Top with seltzer water for a refreshing fizz 
• Optional: a squeeze of lime and/or fresh mint 

It’s easy, hydrating, and also serves as a fun mocktail!

4. Set Reminders to Drink Water Throughout the Day

If you tend to forget to drink water until you’re already parched, you’re not alone. Try setting hydration reminders on your phone, watch, or even a sticky note on your desk. There are also apps that can help you track your intake and nudge you to sip regularly.

Another trick? Anchor your water habit to something you already do, also known as habit stacking:

• Drink a glass of water right after brushing your teeth 
• Sip while waiting for your coffee to brew 
• Keep a water bottle next to you during meetings or errands 

Hydration is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to support your energy, performance, and overall health—especially in the summer heat. So grab that water bottle, prep a DIY electrolyte drink, and set a few reminders to keep sipping all day long.