8 Ways To Drink More Water and Stay Hydrated

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Hydration goes beyond drinking water when you’re thirsty. It keeps your body functioning like a well-tuned machine. But staying hydrated can feel like a chore sometimes. You get busy, you forget, or you just don’t feel like another glass of plain old water.

The Mayo Clinic recommends women drink 11.5 cups or 92 ounces and men drink 15.5 cups or 124 ounces. It’s a lot of water. And the benefits are undeniable: clearer skin, better mood, more energy, and less of that foggy, sluggish feeling. So, here are few tips to get started drinking more water and maybe actually look forward to it.

1. Infuse Your Water With Fruit

Adding fruits like lemon, berries, cucumber, or mint to your water enhances the flavor and makes drinking water more enjoyable. The natural flavors can make plain water feel less boring and more refreshing.

It also can encourage an overall healthier lifestyle that keeps you pumped up throughout the day. When you feel better, you do better.

2. Set Hydration Reminders on Your Phone

Sometimes you just forget to drink water. Set hourly reminders on your phone or use a hydration app to keep you on track. You’d be surprised how much a little nudge can help. It’s easy to go hours without sipping anything, especially when you’re busy.

A quick buzz on your wrist or a notification on your phone is all it takes to remind you to take a swig. You can even set fun challenges for yourself—like finishing a glass of water by the time the next reminder goes off.

3. Drink Herbal Teas Instead of Just Water

If plain water doesn’t excite you, switch it up with herbal teas. Teas like peppermint, chamomile, and hibiscus are great for hydrating and come with added health benefits. Unlike caffeinated drinks, herbal teas won’t dehydrate you, so they’re a perfect alternative.

Sip them hot in the winter or iced in the summer for a refreshing twist. Plus, they’re a great way to unwind and add a bit of variety to your hydration routine. You get the fluids you need without feeling like you’re forcing yourself to drink water all day. It’s a cozy, flavorful way to keep your hydration game strong.

4. Add Electrolytes to Your Water

Sometimes plain water isn’t enough, especially if you’ve been sweating a lot. Adding electrolytes can boost hydration by helping your body absorb water more effectively.

Electrolyte powders or tablets are easy to add to your water bottle, and they come in various flavors that make drinking more enjoyable. This is particularly useful after a workout, on a hot day, or anytime you feel dehydrated. Electrolytes help balance your body’s fluid levels, keeping you hydrated longer. Just be mindful of the sugar content in some brands—opt for low-sugar or natural options when possible. It’s a simple hack that makes a big difference.

5. Use a Smart Water Bottle

If you’re into tech, consider investing in a smart water bottle. These bottles track your intake, remind you when to drink, and even sync with your phone. It’s like having a personal hydration coach by your side all day. Some bottles light up, buzz, or send notifications when it’s time to take a sip.

It’s a great tool for keeping hydration front and center without needing to think about it constantly. Plus, it’s kind of fun to see your progress throughout the day. You’re not just drinking water; you’re gamifying your hydration routine.

6. Start Your Day With a Glass of Water

It sounds simple, but starting your day with water can set the tone for staying hydrated. Your body loses fluids overnight, so replenishing first thing in the morning is crucial. Keep a glass or bottle of water on your bedside table as a visual reminder.

I can vouch for this one. My day is half determined by drinking a glass of water first thing. This habit kickstarts your metabolism and helps wake you up more gently than caffeine alone. You’ll be surprised at how much better you feel throughout the day and it’s an easy, low-effort way to get ahead on your water intake before your day even begins.

7. Make Water Part of Your Routine

Adding water to your daily routine is effective without much effort. By pairing water with activities you already do—like first thing in the morning, brushing your teeth, eating a meal, or using the bathroom—you create natural reminders.

These moments are already part of your day, so adding a sip of water makes it easy to build the habit. This approach takes the guesswork out of it, turning it into a habit that's as routine as anything else you do each day.

8. Add a Splash of Juice for Extra Flavor

Sometimes plain water just doesn’t cut it, and that’s where a splash of juice can make all the difference. Adding a little bit of your favorite juice, like cranberry, fruit punch, or orange, can transform your water into a tasty, refreshing drink.

It’s a simple trick that adds just enough flavor to keep you coming back for more without the extra sugar and calories of a full glass of juice. Experiment with different juices to find your favorite combination—you might be surprised how much more water you drink when it has a little extra flavor.

This article was produced and syndicated by Simple Is More.