Water is scarce in Rust, and not finding it can spell doom way too early in the game. Getting water is essential to survival, and in Rust, it’s not as simple as just finding a bottle. Here’s how I go about it:
1. Start with Natural Water Sources
When you first spawn, finding water is one of your top priorities. The easiest way to hydrate is by heading to natural water sources:
- Rivers and Lakes: Approach a river or lake, and you’ll see the option to “Drink.” I make it a point to take advantage of these spots whenever I’m nearby. Just keep in mind, other players know this too, so stay alert to avoid ambushes.
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2. Crafting and Using Water Catchers
Once I get a base set up, I prioritize building water catchers for a steady water supply, especially if I’m away from natural sources.
- Small Water Catcher vs. Large Water Catcher: The small catcher is quicker to craft but doesn’t hold much water. If you have the resources, go for the large catcher, which holds more and fills up faster. Both are lifesavers if you’re in an area that doesn’t get a lot of rainfall.
- Setting Them Up: Place the water catchers outside your base, preferably in an open spot to catch as much rain as possible. Once they’re filled, just interact with them to drink or fill up containers. They’re low maintenance and a great long-term hydration solution.
3. Looting Water Bottles and Jugs
You can also find water containers like bottles, jugs, and canteens when looting crates and barrels. These are incredibly useful since you can carry water with you on long trips:
- Filling Containers: Once you have a water bottle or jug, you can fill it up at any freshwater source, like a river or your water catcher. This is a game-changer when you’re out exploring and can’t risk running back to base for a drink.
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4. Using Purification Tablets for Dirty Water
Sometimes, you might come across dirty water while scavenging. Drinking it straight will make you sick, but there’s a way to make it safe:
- Purification Tablets: Either find or craft these tablets and use them to purify dirty water, turning it into a drinkable resource. It’s a great backup in case you’re desperate and don’t have other options nearby.
5. Crafting a Water Pump for Saltwater Conversion
If you’re set up near the coast, you’re likely surrounded by saltwater, which isn’t drinkable on its own. This is where a small water pump comes in handy:
- Building the Pump: Crafting a water pump takes HQ metal and tech, so it’s more of a late-game move. Place it close to the shore, and it’ll filter out salt to give you fresh, drinkable water. This setup is ideal if you’re in a beachside base and need consistent access to water.
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6. Growing Hydrating Crops
Not all water needs to come from direct drinking; you can also stay hydrated by growing water-rich crops.
- Pumpkins and Corn: Pumpkins are especially great for hydration. They’re easy to plant and grow quickly, providing a good mix of food and hydration. Anytime I find seeds, I make sure to plant some around my base. It’s a simple way to stay topped up on both food and water.
7. Using Cacti for Water
If you’re in the desert, you have fewer options, but there’s still a way to get some hydration – cacti.
- Harvesting Cacti: Find a cactus and hit it with any tool to get cactus flesh, which restores a bit of hydration. It’s not as effective as other methods, but in a pinch, it can be enough to keep you going.
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Final Tips for Staying Hydrated in Rust
- Position Your Base Wisely: I try to set up close to a river or lake if possible. It might make you a bigger target, but the convenience of having water nearby is hard to beat.
- Always Carry a Container: Whenever I go exploring, I make sure to bring a water bottle or canteen. You never know when you’ll need it, especially if you’re heading out to high-risk areas where getting back to base isn’t easy.
- Keep an Eye on Updates: Rust is always evolving, so be aware of any changes to water mechanics. New items or tweaks can open up different ways to stay hydrated.
Conclusion
Hydration might seem basic, but managing it well keeps you focused on survival without distractions. With these methods, you’ll always have a way to stay hydrated and ready for whatever Rust throws at you. Happy surviving!
Frequently Asked Questions
Head to rivers or lakes to drink directly. Build water catchers at your base for a reliable supply, or use a water pump near the coast to purify saltwater.
Collect water from rivers, lakes, or water catchers, and hunt or gather crops like pumpkins and corn for food. Both resources can also be found while looting crates.
Set up a small or large water catcher to collect rainwater, or craft a water pump near the coast to turn saltwater into drinkable water.
Harvest water by interacting with water catchers or containers filled from freshwater sources. Containers like bottles and jugs can also be filled and carried with you.
