Monitor hydration with Camelbak gauge

Just when you thought you'd seen all the gear possible, along comes another gadget.

The CamelBak Flow Meter measures how much water you drink and how much is left in your reservoir. It also calculates the estimated time until the reservoir is empty.

If you're really into staying hydrated while hiking, running or bicycling, this is the ultimate gadget.

The flow meter is programmable to monitor personal hydration goals.

It works with CamelBak water bladder systems. Cost: $30; battery included. Seen at REI.

I guess I'm old-fashioned. I just look at the side of my 1-liter water bottle and when it's a quarter full, well, I figure I drank threequarters of a liter.

But, I always have to stop and pull the water bottle out of my pack to drink.

You sure drink more on the trail with a reservoir in your pack and the water tube within easy reach.