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Backpacking is an exciting way to explore the great outdoors, but it’s essential to have a reliable source of clean drinking water. With so many backpacking water filters available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best for your needs. Don’t compromise on clean drinking water during your outdoor adventures. Check out our review of the top backpacking water filters from leading brands, including full features, warranty and service, user opinions, and pros and cons for each product. We’ll guide you through the key factors you should consider when choosing the best backpacking water filter for your next adventure.
What Is A Backpacking Water Filter & Why Do You Need One?
A backpacking water filter is a compact and portable device that removes contaminants from water sources found in the wilderness. These filters are essential for backpackers as they can help prevent waterborne illnesses and ensure that the water you drink is safe and clean.
Key Features To Consider When Choosing The Best Backpacking Water Filter
When selecting a backpacking water filter, there are several key features that you should look for to ensure that it is right for you.
- Filter Type: There are two main types of water filters, mechanical and chemical. Mechanical filters use a physical barrier to remove contaminants, while chemical filters use chemicals to purify the water.
- Filter Size: The size of the filter is an important factor to consider, as a larger filter will be more effective but also more cumbersome to carry.
- Flow Rate: The flow rate of a filter refers to the amount of water that it can filter in a given time. A higher flow rate means that you can filter more water faster, which is important if you’re in a group.
- Ease of Use: It’s essential that the backpacking water filter you choose is easy to use and maintain, especially in the wilderness. Look for filters that are easy to assemble and disassemble, and have simple instructions for use.
- Durability: Your backpacking water filter should be able to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, so it’s essential to choose one that is made from durable materials and is built to last.
- Weight: The weight of your backpacking water filter is important, as you’ll be carrying it with you on your trip. Choose a lightweight filter that is easy to carry but still offers the protection you need.
Best Backpacking Water Filters
Here are our top picks based on customer reviews and popularity.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter is a great option for backpackers who are looking for a lightweight and compact water filter. The filter is capable of filtering up to 1 liter of water per minute. They use advanced filtration technology that removes 99.9999% of all waterborne bacteria and bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella. Their filters also remove 99.999% of all protozoa, such as giardia and cryptosporidium. The filter also comes with a straw attachment, which allows you to drink directly from the water source.
Sawyer Products is a popular brand that offers a range of high-quality backpacking water filters. Their filters are lightweight, compact, and easy to use.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter
The Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Filter is a top-of-the-line backpacking water filter that is designed to be used in the most challenging conditions. The Hiker Pro is capable of filtering up to 1 liter of water per minute and can remove up to 99.9% of waterborne bacteria and protozoa. The filter is also easy to clean and comes with a pre-filter to remove larger particles before they can clog the filter.
Their filters are known for their durability and reliability, and they are designed to last for many years of use. They use a combination of ceramic and activated carbon filters to remove bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from water. One of the things I love about the Katadyn Hiker Pro is its durability. I’ve taken this filter on some of the most rugged terrains and it’s held up beautifully. It’s also very lightweight and easy to pack, making it the perfect companion for backpacking trips.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
The Lifestraw is a small, lightweight water filter that allows you to drink from almost any water source without worrying about bacteria, parasites, or other contaminants. It’s designed to be portable and easy to use, making it a must-have accessory for any backpacking trip.
The Lifestraw uses a hollow fiber membrane filter to remove bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from water. When you suck water through the straw, it passes through the filter and comes out the other side, ready to drink. The filter is effective at removing 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites, so you can be confident that the water you’re drinking is safe and clean.
It’s only 9 inches long and weighs just 2 ounces, so you can easily tuck it into your backpack or pocket. It doesn’t require any batteries or electricity, and it doesn’t take up much space, so you can bring it with you on any adventure. All you have to do is find a water source, remove the cap from the straw, and start drinking. There’s no need to pump or wait for the water to filter, and you don’t need any special equipment or skills. It’s perfect for when you’re on the go and don’t have time to set up a more complex filtration system.
The MSR MiniWorks EX Water Filter
MSR is a brand that offers a range of backpacking water filters that are designed to be lightweight and portable. Their filters use advanced filtration technology that removes bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from water. The MSR MiniWorks EX Water Filter is a great option for backpackers. This filter is capable of filtering up to 1 liter of water per minute and can remove up to 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and protozoa.
The MiniWorks EX also has a carbon core, which helps to improve the taste and odor of the water. One of the things that sets the MSR MiniWorks EX apart from other water filters is its long lifespan. The ceramic filter can be cleaned multiple times and can last up to 2000 liters, which is more than enough for most backpacking trips. The filter is also very lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great choice for backpackers who are looking to save space.
GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz Water Purifier Bottle is an innovative product that will provide you with clean drinking water in just eight seconds, and it is perfect for outdoor activities, travel, and emergencies. It has a sleek and modern design that looks great and is incredibly functional. The bottle is made of durable and high-quality materials, including a BPA-free plastic body, stainless steel cap, and silicone ring. It is built to last and can withstand rough handling and heavy use.
The bottle has a capacity of 24 ounces, which is enough for most people’s daily hydration needs. It is also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The bottle measures 9.625″ x 2.875″ (24.5 cm x 7.3 cm) and weighs only 1.2 lbs (544 g). The GRAYL GeoPress Water Purifier Bottle uses advanced technology to purify water quickly and effectively. The bottle features a patented filtration system that removes 99.99% of viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from the water. The system uses three filtration stages: a pre-filter, activated carbon, and ion exchange. The result is clean, safe, and great-tasting water that is free of harmful chemicals, heavy metals, and pathogens.
Simply fill the bottle with water from any freshwater source, such as a river, stream, or tap, and press the filter down. The filtration process takes only eight seconds, and the purified water is ready to drink right away. The bottle has a wide mouth opening that makes it easy to fill and clean, and the filter is replaceable, ensuring the longevity of the bottle.
Stay Safe While Outdoors & On The Go
In addition to water potability, you’ll want to be prepared in case a disaster strikes. Make sure you also check out our emergency checklist, so you’re ready if disaster strikes. Consider packing a bug-out bag for your adventures, and read how to stay safe in the heat with summer safety tips.
