Is this water safe to drink? Probably not, but it will be if you’re carrying a water purifier for a backpacking trip.
Dehydration is dangerous, but drinking dirty water can have unpleasant side effects. Unless you are a camel or a cactus, you are going to need clean water whilst hiking. On a thru-hike or multi-day trek it’s not always practical to carry enough so you’ll have to drink from rivers and streams.
This guide takes you through the differences between water filters and purifiers, what you’ll need from a backpacking water purifier, what to look for and we review the best water filters and purifiers for backpacking.
Some products will either filter or sterilize, and for the safest water you’re going to need two separate products. Or one product that does both.
At a Glance: Top Recommendations for Best Filter and Water Purifier for Backpacking
- Katadyn Hiker Pro Backpacking Water Filter
- Katadyn Steripen Ultra UV Purifier
- LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle for Backpacking
- Sawyer MINI Water Filtration System
- MSR MiniWorks EX Backcountry Water Filter Backpacking
- Platypus GravityWorks Gravity Water Filter System
- MSR Trail Base Personal Pump and Gravity Water Filter System
- MSR Guardian Water Purifier for Backpacking
- Katadyn BeFree 0.6L Backpacking Water Filter
- Sawyer Micro Squeeze Water Filtration System
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Table of contents
- At a Glance: Top Recommendations for Best Filter and Water Purifier for Backpacking
- Best Backpacking Water Filter Reviews
- Portable Water Sterilizer and Filter Buying Guide
- How Filters and Water Purifiers for Backpacking Work
- Types of Water Filter Systems
- Water Purification Methods
- Types of Water Filters
- Taking Care of Your Water Filter
- In Summary
- FAQs
- Need More Backpacking Gear:
Best Backpacking Water Filter Reviews
Katadyn Hiker Pro Backpacking Water Filter
If you hike with a hydration pack then this water filter is a great addition to your kit.
It will connect directly to your hydration pack tube and allow you to pump filtered water into it without having to remove the bladder from your pack.
The pump action is simple and allows for a really good flow of around 1 liter per minute. It comes with 2 quick-connect hose sets as well as a bottle adaptor.
Just make sure that you store the inlet and outlet hoses separately to avoid cross-contamination. While it does a great job of filtering water the connectors and moving pieces mean that there are plenty of opportunities for something to break.
If you use it carefully and store it properly then you shouldn’t have any issues. Also, avoid pumping from very dirty water or pre-filter it if you want your water purifier for backpacking system to last longer.
What We Like
- Connects directly to hydration pack with – inch drink tubes and water bottles
- Activated carbon reduces chemicals in water and improves taste
- Removes cysts, algae, sediment, spores, bacteria and protozoa
- Light and compact so it won’t take up valuable pack space
- Filters water really quickly so you are not wasting time on the trail
- Water tastes great
What We Don’t Like
- Only filters down to 0.3 microns
- Not very durable – You need to be a little careful with connectors and handle
LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle for Backpacking
Check out this awesome water purifier for backpacking! It’s the perfect combination of LifeStraw’s renowned filtering capabilities and the convenience of a top-notch hiking bottle. So you can stay hydrated and explore the great outdoors without any worries.
The 0.2 micro first-stage filter system removes bacteria and protozoa.
The second stage filter uses carbon to remove any odor, taste, chlorine, or dissolved chemicals like pesticides that may be in the water.
The bottle has a wide mouth that allows for easy filling of water from a stream and a convenient mouthpiece incorporated into the lid.
Once the bottle is filled the water passes through the two filter stages and then through the mouthpiece.
Eventually, the filters will need to be replaced. You’ll get around 100 liters before you need to replace the carbon filter and at least 1000 liters through it before you need to replace the first stage filter.
The first stage filter is essentially just a LifeStraw and it can be removed and used on its own.’
What We Like
- No need for a separate filter and water bottle saving space and hassle
- First stage filter removes 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoan parasites
- Second stage carbon filter removes odor, chlorine, and dissolved solids with zero aftertaste
- Durable construction
- Carabiner clip allows for easy attachment to pack
What We Don’t Like
- Leaks a little when not upright
Sawyer MINI Water Filtration System
If you’re looking for a small and budget-friendly water filter system then it’s tough to beat the Sawyer Mini.
The Sawyer Mini is extremely light and filters out anything bigger than 0.1 microns. The flow rate is a bit slow if you’re using it to refill your hiking bottle but it flows fast enough if you’re taking a sip through it.
It comes with a drinking pouch that you can squeeze to drive the water through the filter or you could use the straw it comes with to drink directly from a water source.
The Sawyer Mini connects inline with your hydration pack or screws onto a standard 28mm water bottle thread.
Sawyer claims it’ll give you up to 100,000 gallons of filtered water but you do need to backflush the filter every 5 to 10 gallons to unclog the filter.
What We Like
- Attaches inline to your hydration pack
- Screws onto most disposable bottles (28mm thread)
- Filters down to 0.1 microns so it’ll remove even the smallest of silt particles
- Very light and compact not taking up space in your pack
- Filters 99.99999% of bacteria and 99.9999% of protozoa for those times when you have to drink the dirty river water.
What We Don’t Like
- Flow is a little on the slow side for impatient people like me
MSR MiniWorks EX Backcountry Water Filter Backpacking
Some pump water filter solutions can be overly complex but this water filter system from MSR hits the sweet spot between function and simplicity.
It’s ideal for light to moderate use while camping or backpacking. The pump handle is simple to operate and with the 4 to 1 leverage it makes it easy to pump just over 1 liter per minute.
It has an 80-micron stainless steel pre-filter and a carbon core which helps to get rid of any odor or taste the water might have. It has good-quality silicone hoses that are color-coded to prevent any contamination.
Cleaning in the field is easy. The water filter system comes supplied with a cleaning brush and once you’re done you simply fold the handle away to pack it up compactly into the supplied stuff sack.
We really liked that the water bottle adaptor fits a few different bottles including a wide-mouth Nalgene.
What We Like
- Removes 99.9999% bacteria and 99.9% protozoa
- Activated carbon core ensures fresh-tasting, odor-free water
- Lever action pump is simple to use and offers good through-flow
- Very lightweight – only weighs 11 ounces
- Decent cartridge life of 2000 liters
What We Don’t Like
- Not suited to supply more than 1 or 2 people with water
Platypus Gravity Works
If you’re looking to filter water for your whole camping party without the hassle of pumping then the Platypus Gravity Works is just the ticket.
Their tagline for this product is °Fill, Hang, Relax. Hang the unfiltered water reservoir a little higher than the clean water reservoir and in under 3 minutes you’ve got around 4 liters of clean water.
The filter cartridge uses hollow fiber technology which results in a highly effective filter in a very small package. They’re expensive to replace but they’re good for around 1,500 liters so you won’t have to buy another cartridge in a hurry.
If you’re particularly sensitive to water taste or odor then you can buy the carbon element which splices in after the filter cartridge. It’s going to cost you a bit extra but it’s worth it for the improved taste.
In-field cleaning is pretty simple and all it takes is a quick back-flush for around 4 minutes
What We Like
- High capacity gravity feed is ideal for supplying a group of family
- Removes 99.9999% bacteria and 99.9% protozoa
- Delivers 4 liters of filtered water in 2.5 minutes
- Filter cartridge only needs replacing after 1,500 liters
What We Don’t Like
- Filter cartridges are pricey to replace but fortunately, they last a long time
- Carbon elements sold separately
MSR Trail Base Personal Pump and Gravity Water Filter System
This is a well-constructed and easy-to-use gravity water filter that comes in either 2L or 4L sizes. The wide opening makes it easy to scoop up water from your source and then gravity does the rest.
The flow rate of 1.0 liters per minute makes this a good option if you’re supplying more than just for your personal use. In this updated model MSR has changed the closure system to improve packability.
They’ve also used a better food-grade lining to make sure that your water doesn’t get any taste or odor added to it from the reservoir. It has a little squeeze-activated clamp on the end of the outlet so you can fill your bottle on demand.
With this hanging from a tree it’s like having a tap right there in your camp. The bottle adaptor fits most water bottles and makes it easier to refill bottles without spilling precious water.
What We Like
- Reservoir made from high-durability film
- Closure system and hose layout allow for compact packing
- Reasonable speed – 1.0 liters per minute
- Easy to clean
- Food-grade lining ensures better-tasting water
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t come supplied with a clean water reservoir
MSR Guardian Water Purifier for Backpacking
If you’re looking for the most hardcore water filter that removes a lot more than other backpacking water filters then the Guardian is a great choice.
It’s built rock solid and was originally designed for military use. The pump handle is solidly constructed and delivers water a lot faster than other pump water filters. With a rate of 2.5 liters per minute, this works just as well for personal use or larger groups.
We like that it doesn’t require any cleaning. With each pump stroke, it goes through a self-cleaning cycle.
It has a nipple at the bottom to connect a hose for easy filling of a container or camelback as well as an adaptor that screws onto nalgene compatible bottles.
On one hand, it filters down to 0.02 microns so it will filter out viruses. On the other hand, it comes at a high price tag but this offers significantly better filtering than the cheaper solutions. This is one of the best water filter units we’ve seen.
What We Like
- Military grade water filter removes protozoa, bacteria, particulate and even viruses
- Very fast – pumps 2.5 liters per minute
- Extremely rugged – withstands freezing and drops
- Treats up to 10,000 liters
- Pump is self-cleaning – no backwashing is required
What We Don’t Like
- High Price Tag
- At 17.3oz it’s a little heavier than other pump filters
Katadyn BeFree 0.6L Backpacking Water Filter
Looking for a water purifier for backpacking? Look no further! This cheap water filter bottle is the perfect companion for your day hikes, trail runs, or even longer excursions where water sources are abundant.
One of the best features of this bottle is its wide opening, which allows for quick and easy refills. The mouthpiece and filter screw securely into place, ensuring that you can enjoy your hike without any worries.
But what about the water flow? Well, let me tell you, it’s fast! You won’t have to struggle with sucking on the mouthpiece to quench your thirst. Just take a sip and enjoy the refreshing taste of filtered water.
Cleaning this water filter is a breeze. Simply give it a shake and rinse it in water to remove any debris. However, remember to keep the mouthpiece away from unfiltered water to maintain its purity.
And the best part? This bottle is incredibly portable. You can scrunch it up and tuck it into your pocket or find that last little spot in your pack. Weighing in at only 3.2 ounces, it’s a lightweight and compact solution that won’t weigh you down.
So, if you’re looking for a reliable, affordable, and efficient water filter for your backpacking adventures, this is the one for you. Add it to your daypack and stay hydrated on all your outdoor escapades.
What We Like
- Collapsible soft bottle flask packs down really small
- Removes 99.9999% bacteria and 99.9% protozoa
- Filter is easy to clean
- Price
What We Don’t Like
- Only filters down to 0.1 micron – not a virus filter
Sawyer Micro Squeeze Water Filtration System
This is a compact, highly packable and easy-to-use water filter solution.
The kit includes 3 reusable water pouches (12oz, 16oz, 32oz), a screw on filter, a drinking spout and a cleaning syringe.
The pouches are collapsible and roll up really small. The filter can be used with the pouches but also screws onto a standard water bottle.
The small mouth of the pouch does make it a little slow to fill, unfortunately. It’s ideal for one or two people for fast and light trekking.
Fast-fill hydration pack adapters are also available now. That said, you can use the squeeze filter to refill your hydration bladder without removing it from your pack.
To backflush the filter you need to be sure to bring along the syringe. If you clean it regularly then, you may never have to replace the filter. This is because they claim a life expectancy of 1 million gallons.
What We Like
- Filter screws directly onto a water bottle
- Filters pretty quickly at 1 liter/minute
- Price
- Very easy to use
What We Don’t Like
- The mouth of the pouch is a little small so it takes some time to fill
- To backwash the filter you need to remember to pack the supplied syringe
Katadyn Steripen Ultra UV Purifier
The SteriPen Adventurer is for serious hikers who want a lightweight, compact water purifier that is easy to use.
It uses UV to kill the microorganisms in the water so there’s none of the aftertaste, waiting time or allergy issues that you get from using iodine or chlorine.
You simply press the button once for 1 liter or twice for half a liter and then stir your water with the SteriPen. Once the light turns off your water is safe to drink.
It only takes around 90 seconds to purify a liter of water. The UV light kills the DNA of the microorganisms so they can’t reproduce once inside you.
This product is so effective that it’s the only water portable water treatment device to receive the Water Quality Association’s gold seal.
Because you need to stir the water it’s only practical to use with a wide-mouth bottle.
What We Like
- Compact and lightweight so very little excuse to leave it at home
- Reusable for up to 8000 liters – that should keep even the thirstiest of us hydrated!
- Kills 99.9% of harmful microorganisms, – Giardia, Cryptosporidium, viruses, protozoa and bacteria
- Uses UV so there’s no aftertaste or allergies due to added chemicals
- Water sensor can be used as a flashlight
- No wait time – sterilizers a liter of water in 90 seconds
What We Don’t Like
- Battery operated so you have to make sure your batteries are charged
- Has to be used with a wide-mouth container
SteriPen Ultra UV Purifier
Whether you need to purify 1 liter of water for yourself or 20 liters for your hiking party this great water purifier has you covered.
It uses mixed oxidant technology to purify the water. You simply mix a brine solution made from any salt and any water and pour it into the little slot.
Once you select the volume of water you want to purify and start the reaction it uses electrolytic action to produce chlorine and other oxidants from the brine. Once the reaction is complete you pour the solution into the water and wait 30 minutes before it’s safe to drink.
There are two storage compartments in the device for salt but it’s a good idea to pack a little extra if you’re going to be out for a while.
The purifier can be charged either via the USB port or by using the built-in solar panel and a single charge is good for around 150 liters.
There are no replaceable parts and the only consumable you have is normal table salt so it’s really cheap to use.
The ability to scale between small and large quantities makes this great for a hike or even in your bugout bag.
What We Like
- Treats anywhere between 1 to 20 liters at a time – so great if you are car camping or going backpacking with a group
- Kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses including Giardia and Cryptosporidium
- Charges via USB or built-in solar panel
- 60,000 liter lifetime with no replaceable parts
- No pre-filtering required
- No bad taste added to water
- Very durable and fits into the palm of your hand
What We Don’t Like
- Takes 30 minutes to purify water
- High price tag
Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets
If you want a simple and cheap way to disinfect water then these iodine tablets are a good option. The tablets are really simple to use.
Simply add 2 tablets for every liter of water that you need to purify, shake the bottle up and then wait for 30 minutes.
Iodine tablets are very effective at killing microorganisms in water but usually leave you with water that has a brownish color and a horrible taste.
To remove the iodine taste and color simply drop 2 of the PA Plus tablets into the treated water and after 5 minutes you’ll have purified water without the horrible taste and color.
This is not a long-term water purifying solution and should rather be used as your backup plan rather than your primary water purifying solution.
Also, if you have an iodine allergy then you’ll want to skip these.
Once you open the bottle the tablets in the bottle will only be good for 12 months but they’re cheap so buy a few bottles for your hiking and emergency kit.
What We Like
- Cheap and lightweight – easy to keep in your backpack for emergencies
- PA plus additive removes iodine taste and color that you normally get with these tablets
- Small bottles take up little space in pack
- Simple to use
- Very effective at killing viruses, bacteria and parasites
What We Don’t Like
- Only really intended for short term or emergency use
- No good if you have an iodine allergy
- Takes 30 minutes to work
Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets
Another simple and cheap way to purify water on the go, these chlorine dioxide tablets are a worthwhile addition to your backpack.
Killing viruses and bacteria by the simple addition of a tablet to the water, these are a good alternative to iodine. Personally, I hate the taste of chlorine, but I prefer that to a dose of Giardia.
It’s as simple as popping an individually packed tablet into one liter of water, and waiting for 15 minutes – or 30 minutes if you are worried about Cryptosporidium.
They won’t filter silt or other suspended particles, so step away from that murky river water full of hippo-poop!
I wouldn’t use these as my primary water sterilization method, but they make for a good backup and are lightweight enough to keep in the bottom of your backpack.
What We Like
- Affordable, lightweight and easy to forget about in the bottom of your pack
- Great for emergency sterilization of water from suspect sources
- Effective at killing viruses, parasites and bacteria
- Doesn’t taste as bad as a dose of Giardia
What We Don’t Like
- Takes 30 minutes to work
- Won’t filter water at all, so best used with a clear source of water
Our Favorite: Best Backpacking Water Filters
We love the Steripen. It’s not a solution for large volume water purification, but for personal use on a hike it’s great.
I love the no-fuss operation and the fact that there’s no waiting time and this solution doesn’t involve adding any chemicals into the water.
If you need to filter water for several people then the Platypus Gravity Works would be the top choice.
I also really like the LifeStraw Go water filter bottle.
The convenience of having the filter built into the bottle is great. The fact that it has both a standard and an activated carbon filter definitely puts it ahead of most other backpacking water filters.
This is my go-to water bottle for when I’m out on a day hike or traveling to parts of the world where the water is less sanitary.
For backpacking trips it works well, but if I was setting up base camp for the family, I’d go for a larger device.
Best for Budget
If you’re looking to save some money then the Sawyer Mini water filter is your best bet.
Check out our head-to-head comparison between Sawyer Mini vs Lifestraw or Sawyer Mini vs Squeeze.
You get excellent filtration in a compact and cheap water filter. The only drawback is that it’s a little slow and needs backflushing now and again.
I’d recommend this one if you go camping occasionally and don’t want to spend the extra money.
If you don’t mind a foul taste to your water, it doesn’t get much cheaper than the water purification tablets from Potable or Katadyn.
Normally we wouldn’t touch the stuff because the color and taste of iodine or chlorine-treated water is just horrible.
With the PA Plus tablets added you get safe drinking water that tastes and looks (relatively) good without having to spend a lot of money.’ The Katadyn is a good alternative if you don’t want to use iodine.
Portable Water Sterilizer and Filter Buying Guide
Why Treat Water When Backpacking?
Sitting next to a stream of water while taking a break from your trail run or hike is a great way to relax. But don’t be fooled by how crystal clear that water looks.
Pretty much all surface water is contaminated with either bacteria, protozoa, viruses or all three. A study done in 1992 found that about 97% of the lakes and rivers in the USA were contaminated with either the protozoan parasites cryptosporidium or Giardia or both.
While that sounds pretty scary you’d probably be ok drinking from a lot of the streams you cross on your hike. But every time you do it’s a lottery. If you manage to ingest one of these bugs the rest of your backpacking experience is not going to be as much fun as you expected.
Better safe than sorry.
Backpacking Water Sources
Here are a few things to consider when choosing where to fill your bottle:
- If there’s no inflow or outflow and it’s just a puddle of standing water then it’s best to avoid it.
- There are beavers in the water then avoid it, unless you like a little giardia in you.
- If the stream passes through animal pastures or cultivated farmland chances are the water has animal waste or pesticides in it.
- Waterfalls sound like a good source, but the water will contain more suspended solids in it than the pool it flows into.
- But if you’re downstream from a town where there’s mining or other industrial activity then you want to avoid using water from large rivers.
- The water is a steady moving stream passing over rocks and roots it’s probably the safest bet.
Water Pollutants
Before you can choose the best way to make your water safe it’s important to know what makes it dangerous.
In general the things you want to remove from the water are bacteria, protozoa (parasites), cysts, viruses, dissolved chemicals and particulate-like sediment.
There are a number of potential water contaminants to look out for with the following being the main culprits:
- Chemical – pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOC)
- Turbidity – tiny suspended solids in the water make it hazy or milky in appearance
- Viruses – hepatitis, meningitis, gastroenteritis are just a few of up to 100 potential water borne viruses. These are the smallest pathogens and are really tough to filter. The main source is often water that is contaminated by sewage
- Bacteria – These are about 10 times smaller than protozoa and include the likes of E. Coli, Salmonella and Leptospira.
- Protozoan Parasites – These are the largest bugs you’ll find in your water and are the easiest to filter. Giardia and Cryptosporidia are the main culprits in this group.
What System Works on What Pathogen?
- Chemical – Removing chemicals from water is extremely difficult, if not impossible with anything that would fit into your pack. A water filter that uses activated carbon is your best bet to remove some chemicals and it will also remove bad odors and tastes.
- Turbidity – These suspended solids may be too small for you to see but they’re big enough that pretty much any water filter will remove them. Even the cheaper ones.
- Viruses – To filter out viruses your filter needs to have pores smaller than 0.1 micron and very few do. Most regular water filters are in the 0.2 to 0.3 micron range so the virus will pass straight through these filters. The alternative to filtering the virus is to either boil it or purify it with something like iodine, chlorine or UV light
- Bacteria – The majority of bacteria are large enough that most good water filters will filter them out. That’s why you’ll see some of the best water filters being able to claim that they remove 99.9999% of all bacteria.
- Protozoan Parasites – These are harder to filter than bacteria but not as tough as viruses. If your filter meets EPA standards and has a 0.2 micron or 0.3 micron filter then it will filter out the Giardia and Cryptosporidium bugs
Water Filter vs. Water Sterilizer for Backpacking?
A water filter will normally only remove things that are around 0.1 to 0.3 microns or larger depending on the filter. This is fine for removing bacteria, protozoa, cysts, and particulate.
Even the best backpacking water filters will not remove viruses from water. Viruses are smaller than 0.1 microns and can only be killed by sterilizing with iodine, chlorine, or UV light.
A good water sterilizer will kill bacteria and viruses but can’t remove dissolved chemicals from the water.’
So should I get a water filter or a water purifier? If you want to be 100% safe you’re going to need both, and perhaps add a sterilizer to your packing list too.
However, if you’re traveling in a developing country where sanitation isn’t always the best then packing both is worth the real estate it takes up in your pack.
Finally, if you’re backpacking through the countryside in the US and you’re far away from any potential sewage contamination then a filter should be all you need.
How Filters and Water Purifiers for Backpacking Work
A water filter uses a membrane or tiny hollow tubes to block contaminants while allowing water to pass through. The size of the holes (pores) in the filter determines the smallest things it can filter.
Dirty water goes in one side and clean water comes out the other. A filter will not be able to remove dissolved chemicals like heavy metals or salt from the water and the majority will also not be capable of removing viruses.
The filter needs to be periodically cleaned to keep it from becoming clogged and eventually will need replacing.
A water purifier doesn’t actually remove anything from the water but rather it kills any bacteria, parasites or viruses in the water.
If you scoop up some slightly muddy water from a pool and purify it you could drink it safely but it’s not going to taste great. Whatever bugs were in it will be killed but you will still have the particulate suspended in the water.
Your best approach is to filter the water to remove as much as possible and then to purify it to kill anything that made it past the filter.
Even with the best water filter and purifier you still won’t be removing heavy metals like chromium or lead so choose your source carefully
Chemically Contaminated Water vs. Particulates?
Standard water filters use very fine microfibers to trap particulates and bacteria.
They can’t remove dissolved chemicals, odors or bad tastes from the water. To remove these you’ll need a filter that uses an absorbent medium like charcoal, also sometimes referred to as activated carbon.
This will absorb chemicals like pesticides, herbicides, and other Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOC), heavy metals, bad tastes, and odors that would otherwise pass through a standard filter.
Is There a Difference Between Filtered & Purified Water?
Filtered water will look perfectly clean but that doesn’t mean that it’s safe to drink. It may still contain viruses.
Water that is purified may not always look the cleanest but whatever viruses or bugs are in it will be dead so it will be safe to drink.
Filtered water will usually taste better than water that is simply purified because the particulate will have been removed from it.
Water Sterilizing Methods?
Water purification is typically done by either treating the water with UV light or adding chlorine or iodine to the water.
There are pros and cons for each of these methods.’
UV Light
Works really fast and there’s no need for long waiting times after treatment. With cloudy water, it may be necessary to pre-filter the water to guarantee the inactivation of all microorganisms.’
Chemical Purification?
Water sterilization tablets are either made of Iodine or Chlorine.
Iodine is very effective at purifying water but leaves you with water that really doesn’t taste great. Some people have an iodine intolerance or allergy. If you take Lithium, if you have thyroid problems or if you’re allergic to shellfish then chances are that you’re allergic to Iodine.
Adding Chlorine to water is also very effective. You don’t have as big a taste issue but in both cases, it takes around 30 minutes to purify the water.’
My main issue with these is that I don’t like the addition of chemicals to my water. And to get rid of the foul taste, you add further chemicals.
However, when given the choice between a filthy intestinal infection, or a few chemicals, I’m happy to purify my water with these tablets.
Regardless of the purifying method you use, remember that they will not be able to remove dissolved chemicals from the water. They merely kill any bacteria in the water.
Types of Water Filter Systems
Gravity Filters
These use a pouch, or water reservoir, with a filter at the bottom of the pouch. Water is scooped up into the pouch and then it is hung from a point higher than the bottle you need to fill. Gravity forces the water through the filter and down the pipe.
Gravity filters are the easiest and quickest water filters to use when supplying larger amounts of water to a group of people. The filter will remove bacteria and parasites but not viruses and you can usually put a charcoal cartridge in line with the filter to remove odors and taste.
If you’re camping somewhere in the US then this is a solid choice. Your water source needs to be deep enough to scoop with the pouch so it doesn’t work well with shallow sources. If you’re looking to move fast and light then you may want to look at a more compact filter.
Buy the LifeStraw Flex Advanced Filter with Gravity Bag at No products found. and REI
Squeeze Filters
Basically, a filter that screws onto a flexible water pouch. Once filled, you squeeze the pouch and it forces water through the filter. These are great for personal use for a quick drink while on a trail run. The water pouch collapses and stashes easily into your pocket.
It’s a good option to fill your own bottle but too small and slow to supply a larger group. Also, there’s no charcoal in the filter so you’re stuck with the taste and smell of the water you scooped up.
For a personal sized one, this a great option: Sawyer SP129 and for a larger one gallon version: Sawyer SP160
Pump Filters
Instead of using gravity, this filter has a lever attached to it that pumps water through the filter when operated. Water is taken up through the inlet hose, it’s pumped through the filter and exits through a hose on the outlet side. The handles can be a little fiddly to use sometimes and it takes a lot more elbow grease to get your water than a gravity filter does.
The pros are that you can pump water up from a really shallow source and the filter takes up very little space in your pack. Most pump filters will only remove parasites and bacteria while the more expensive units like the MSR Guardian will filter out viruses too. Some of these filters also incorporate activated charcoal to remove odors and taste.
As soon as something has moving parts there’s a chance something will break. Some of these filters have durability issues with handles and o-rings.
The MSR Guardian Military Grade Water Purifier can be purchased on Amazon and REI.
Straw Filters
Probably the most famous of these is the LifeStraw. It’s a plastic or stainless steel tube with a filter inside that you suck water through as you would with a regular straw.
These are the ultimate in personal use, lightweight and compact water filters. They will remove bacteria and parasites but most won’t remove viruses.
If you spend a little more for the LifeStraw Mission or Family 1.0 models then you’d be able to filter viruses as well. These are really easy to use but only really supply enough water for personal use.
Cleaning is easily done by blowing instead of sucking so that excess water is backflushed through the filter. Eventually, the filter gets clogged and it’s too difficult to suck water through it. After around 4,000 liters you’ll need to dispose of it and buy another as these don’t usually have serviceable parts.
Water Bottle Filters
If you already have your favorite water bottle but want to be sure the water is safe to drink then simply screw on one of these filters to the mouth of the bottle. Upend the bottle and gravity forces the water through the filter and into your mouth.
These work well on the trail but the small amount of water they filter makes them unsuitable for supplying your camp. The filter will remove parasites and bacteria but not viruses and the absence of carbon in the filter means you won’t be improving the taste of the water much.
Water Purification Methods
Boiling
Boiling your water will kill all parasites, bacteria and any viruses as well. It doesn’t affect the taste of the water and it is a very effective and cheap way to make it safe to drink.
It’s a good option if you’re camping but not practical when backpacking or hiking. The amount of fuel and time you need to boil the water makes this a very inefficient process. You’ll also need to wait for ages before the water is cool enough to drink.
Chemical Treatment
Treating your water with chemicals like iodine, chlorine or oxidizing agents is all easy and effective way to kill any bugs or viruses in the water. These chemicals can alter the taste of the water though. Iodine in particular gives the water a pretty unpleasant taste.
Chlorine doesn’t affect the taste nearly as much but Giardia as well as Cryptosporidium can be Chlorine resistant so you will need to filter the water before purifying with Chlorine.
It does take a little while for the chemicals to do their job so you’ll need to wait 15 to 30 minutes before drinking the water. Water treatment tablets are fairly cheap and take up very little space in your pack so they are a good option if you insist on packing super light.
UV Purification
Exposing water to UV light kills 99.99% of all harmful bad guys in water including bacteria, parasites (including Giardia and Cryptosporidium) and viruses. It uses no chemicals and doesn’t affect the taste of the water.
It also works a lot quicker than chemical purifying. If the water has a lot of particulate in it then it does reduce the effectiveness of this method. There are some great compact UV light water purifiers that you switch on and just stir the water in your bottle for a minute or so.
The drawback is that these work with batteries so make sure you’ve got a fresh pair in and a backup just in case. This is probably the best water purifying option for personal use but these devices can get a little pricey. The UV bulb will also eventually need to be replaced if you use it a lot.
Types of Water Filters
The kinds of filter media used in water filters are generally hollow fiber, ceramic, fiberglass, silica depth. Each of these has its respective pros and cons.
Hollow Fiber
An excellent area-to-weight ratio means you get very effective filtering in a small, light package that’s good for around 1,500 to 2000 liters. The higher surface area also offers a higher flow rate than other filters do.
Hollow fiber filters are less durable, so you need to treat them carefully or make sure the housing is designed to protect the fibers when dropped. Replacement cartridges are expensive.
Ceramic
Offers excellent filtering, high flow rates and long lifespan (around 2000 liters). But it’s heavy and needs regular scrubbing to prevent it from becoming clogged. The ceramic filter wears down from cleaning and will eventually need to be replaced.
Fiberglass
If the pore size is sufficiently small this offers good filtration at a low price. It clogs easily though, is more fragile than ceramic, and the flow rate isn’t as good either. Lifespan reduces significantly if used with silty or turbid water.
Silica Depth
Offers excellent filtering at a good price point. Reasonable flow rate, but not as good as you get from hollow fiber and ceramic. The lifespan of these filters runs to around 750 liters.
What is Micron Size for Water Filters?
When a water filter specification mentions “microns” it’s an indication of how effective the filter is at removing the bad stuff from the water. The figure quoted refers to the size of the pores in the filter and gives you an idea of what the filter will stop and what it will let through.
Bacteria contaminants range anywhere from 0.2 to 60 microns while viruses are around 0.005 to 0.3 microns. The smaller the pores, the better it will filter, but the longer it will take.
The Role of a Pre-filter (Do I Need One?)
The lifespan of your water filter is highly dependent on the amount of turbidity or silt in the water. If the source you’re using is clear then there’s no need for a pre-filter. If the water looks murky or you can see that there’s a lot of sediment in it, then it’s best to use a pre-filter.
Simply pouring the water through a t-shirt or bandana will do a fairly good job of removing most of the sediment. Your water filter can then handle the rest. It will require less backwashing and will last a lot longer.
Taking Care of Your Water Filter
It doesn’t matter what type of water filter you buy, it will eventually need replacing. There are a few ways to make it last longer:
- Backflushing your water filter regularly will ensure an optimum flow rate and will extend the life of your filter cartridge. Make sure to properly clean the outlet side if it comes into contact with any dirty water.
- Choosing the right water – Filtering clear water will extend the life of your filter so choose water as close to the source as possible and avoid muddy pools.
- Replacing the filter – Once your filter gets clogged it needs replacing. Trying to force water through a clogged filter can put a strain on the seals and other components.
- If you’re going to store your filter between hikes, first filter chlorinated water (from your tap) through it, to kill any bacterial blooms. Then leave in a warm, dry spot (not in sunlight) for about a week to dry properly before stashing in a cupboard or draw.
Choosing the best water filter comes down to how much water you’re going to need and where you’re getting water. For fast and light trekking small water filters like the LifeStraw or a squeeze filter are fine. If you’re catering for a bigger group then get a pump filter with a decent flow rate or a gravity filter.
If you’re hiking in the US, far away from any human settlements then a good microfilter that goes down to 0.2 microns should be all you need. Cryptosporidium and Giardia are the main things you’ll need to avoid.
If you’re going to be near popular camp spots or traveling in developing countries, either be sure that your filter removes viruses or be sure to purify the water after filtering it.
When considering the cost of the filter be sure to consider the total cost of ownership and not just the initial purchase price. The lifespan of the filter cartridges and the cost to replace them can make a big difference.
In Summary
To cover all your bases you’ll need both the best portable water filter as well as the best portable water sterilizer in your kit. If you absolutely have to choose then go with a good two-stage water filter.
You are more likely to encounter bacteria and parasites on a hike than viruses, and filters are a lot easier to use when you’re on the move.
Just don’t get careless with the water outlet of the filter, and make sure that the clean water side never comes into contact with suspect water.
FAQs
So, you’re wondering why a water purifier is a backpacking essential, right? Well, it’s simple – safety and convenience. When you’re out in the wild, you can’t always trust the water sources. A good water purifier keeps you safe from those tiny critters that can make you sick. Plus, it’s a lot easier than carrying gallons of water. A little purifier can be a real lifesaver, making sure you stay hydrated without the extra weight.
Picking the right water purifier can feel like a puzzle, but here’s what you need to look for first, size and weight matter a lot. You don’t want something bulky in your pack. Second, check how quickly it purifies water – you don’t want to wait forever when you’re thirsty. And most importantly, it should be effective against all the nasty stuff like bacteria and viruses.
Maintenance – is not the most fun part, but super important. Keeping your water purifier in tip-top shape is key for it to work effectively. First off, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, after each use, give it a good clean with clear water. If it’s a filter, backflush it to prevent clogging. And when you’re back from your trip, dry it out before storing it. A little TLC goes a long way in keeping your purifier ready for your next adventure!
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Last update on 2024-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Thanks for sharing. I used to go camping with waterdrop products. Very durable and portable, the water supply can meet daily demand. You can carry clean filtered water with you anywhere. Check the link for more information you want.
Hi Terese. Thank you for sharing. We use waterdrop at our homes too. We will take a look at their camping filter products and perhaps do a comparison review between waterdrop and other water filtration options for camping?
Have been using LifeStraw personal water filter when hiking, camping or fishing. Works as advertised. The filtration system is extremely reliable and really safe to use. Totally satisfied with it, the water is very good, free of strange smells and tastes.
Very satisfied with this water purifier. A water filter device worth carrying when you travel.
Never backpack without it!
I’m planning a camping trip around the white mountain national forest and Katadyn SteriPen would be my companion for water filtering needs. It’s sleek and compact in design so won’t take much space in my backpack. Thanks, Clare for sharing such an extraordinary guide with me. Cheers!
Cheers! Have a great time! We are updating our site and asking readers to submit their adventures stories. Would love to hear about it when you return.
When hiking, camping, or fishing, I use a LifeStraw personal water filter. It performs just as stated. The filtering system is very dependable and completely risk-free. I’m quite happy with it; the water is excellent, with no off-putting odours or flavours.