In this paper we emphasize some conceptual points related to the kinetic foundations of relativistic hydrodynamics. We summarize previous work and focus on the construction of the heat flux from a kinetic theory point of view. A thorough discussion addressing aspects concerning stability and causality under linear perturbations, and the construction of an appropriate stress-energy tensor, in the case of a high temperature (special relativistic) single component dilute fluid is included. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.