70% of Brits aren’t drinking enough water:  New data reveals summer hydration crisis

Ocean Bottle research highlights a growing wellness gap and the rise of reusables at summer events

As the UK enters peak summer, new research by social impact brand Ocean Bottle reveals a concerning hydration shortfall: 70% of people aren’t drinking enough water, falling short of NHS-recommended intake levels. Despite the clear benefits – 81% of people say regular water intake boosts their mental wellbeing – most Brits are dehydrated, especially when it’s hot.

This hydration gap has sparked a shift in consumer habits, with reusable water bottles now topping the list of daily essentials. In fact, 58% of people say their reusable bottle is the most important item when leaving the house.

“Hydration is no longer just a health trend, it’s becoming a cultural priority,” says Will Pearson, Co-Founder of Ocean Bottle. “But the data shows there’s still a major gap between what people know and what they do. Our mission is to close that gap, making hydration more accessible while helping people cut plastic waste.”

As music festivals, sporting events, and weekend getaways dominate the season, 85% of respondents say reusable bottles are essential at summer events, second only to sun cream.

The research also found:

• 49% of Brits use a reusable bottle daily, and 80% use one weekly
  
  
• 52% choose them to cut plastic waste, and 34% cite environmental concerns
  
  
• 75% would switch to a brand that helps reduce ocean plastic
  
  
• 84% believe individuals can drive positive change through their purchases

Still, 31% say access to refill stations is a barrier, and 44% struggle to keep bottles clean, two issues Ocean Bottle is tackling head-on with durable, easy-to-clean designs and advocacy for better refill infrastructure.

Ocean Bottle’s sleek, insulated bottles are designed for the way people live now: on-the-go, sustainably-minded, and committed to feeling good. Every bottle funds the collection of 11.4kg of ocean-bound plastic (equivalent to 1,000 plastic bottles) and supports collection communities in coastal regions most affected by plastic pollution.

“People are thirsty for change, literally and figuratively,” said Pearson. “This summer, the easiest way to feel better and do better is to carry a reusable bottle wherever you go.”