water on long runs: add stopping in gas stations/7-11s etc to buy Gatorade or whatever, to the list of strategies.
I’ve always used water fountains on the (planned) route, and gas stations. In the winter, I’ll run up to 2 hours without water, it’s never been a problem.
I like the amphipod system better than the Fuel Belt. I can get the bottles in and out easier than the holder system on a Fuel Belt. The Amphipod system snaps into place and the bottles are larger at 8 ounces. The belt itself seems more comfortable as well although I agree with others that once you put any of these belts on you get used to them fairly quickly. And running in the heat in North Carolina sure requires some fluids on most any length run.
Good luck.