But here's what has worked for me: for runs 12 miles or less, I rely on hydrating before and after the run and don't bother bringing water.
Well, I don't know where the orginal thread starter lives... but this is not good for someone who lives in warm or humid environments. Vermont, you do not so this seems reasonable.

For me... I live in Texas. There is no way I could make it 12 miles or less without any water. The humidity is so bad here I am dripping with sweat 1 mile into a run. The heat is a killer too. It got down to 88 degrees yesterday and that was a COLD day in August.

I just wanted to point that out, because sometimes people don't think about where they are and if the advice would apply to their particular situation. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can be very serious. I would hate to see the original poster take what works for you and aplly it to them if they live where it is hot.