Just picked up two bottles and cages from the local box store. How many do you carry on a typical ride?
On a maximal distance (75 to 100 miles) I bring four bottles of Poland Springs flavored carbonated water (two in cages and two in my rear trunk bag). For calories and electrolytes I bring about four protein-carbohydrate combos of foodstuffs (not gels). I'm an adherent to the Zone diet.