Due to the dry climate of Death Valley, you must drink more water here than in other places, even in the cooler winter months. Always carry adequate water (at least 2 liters for a short winter dayhike, 1 gallon or more for longer warm season hikes and overnighters).

In Death Valley National Park, the official recommendation is to carry and drink at least one gallon (approx. 4 liters) of water per person, per day, and even more if you are active or if the temperature exceeds 100°F (38°C). The park is the hottest and driest place in North America, and the low humidity causes moisture to evaporate from your body so quickly that you may not even realize you are sweating. Experts suggest sipping water constantly rather than waiting until you feel thirsty. If you are driving through the park, you should always have an extra 2–5 gallons of "emergency water" stored in your vehicle in case of a breakdown, as many areas have no cell service and help can be hours away. In addition to water, it is highly recommended to consume electrolytes (via sports drinks or salty snacks) to replace the minerals lost through perspiration. During the summer months, hiking after 10:00 AM is extremely dangerous and often prohibited on certain trails, as even a gallon of water cannot protect the body from heatstroke when the ambient air temperature reaches 120°F.