The best water filtration systems for backpacking
Before we dive into the products, let's discuss the types of water filtration systems available. The three main types are filter pumps, gravity filters, and squeeze filters. Filter pumps are the most traditional and require you to pump water through a filter which removes impurities. Gravity filters work by letting gravity do the work, as water flows through a filter into a bladder. Squeeze filters are the most convenient, as you can squeeze water through a filter into a container.
Now, let's explore the best water filtration systems for backpacking:
1. Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System
The Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System is a popular choice among backpackers because of its size and weight. It's incredibly compact and weighs only two ounces, making it easy to fit in any backpack. The filter is rated to filter up to 100,000 gallons of water, so it's a long-lasting investment. The Sawyer Mini also removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, including Salmonella, E. coli, and Cholera, and 99.9999% of all protozoa, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium. This filter is a squeeze filter, so you can easily filter water into any container.
2. Katadyn Gravity BeFree Water Filtration System
The Katadyn Gravity BeFree Water Filtration System is a great choice for backpackers who need to filter larger amounts of water quickly. This gravity filter can filter up to two liters of water in less than two minutes, making it perfect for groups or long hikes. It has a 0.1-micron filter that removes bacteria, protozoa, and cysts, while still allowing good minerals to remain in the water. The Gravity BeFree is also a squeeze filter, so you can easily filter water into any container.
3. MSR Guardian Purifier
The MSR Guardian Purifier is the most heavy-duty and durable water filtration system on our list. It's designed for extreme conditions and will filter water from any source, no matter how dirty. The Guardian Purifier has a self-cleaning mechanism that flushes out any debris, and it has a military-grade carbon filter that eliminates viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and chemicals. The Guardian Purifier is a filter pump, so you'll have to pump water through the filter, but it's worth it for the security it provides.
4. Platypus GravityWorks 4.0L Water Filter System
The Platypus GravityWorks 4.0L Water Filter System is perfect for group backpacking trips because it can filter up to four liters of water at once. It's a gravity filter, so you don't have to do any pumping – simply hang the filter and let gravity do the work. The GravityWorks uses a hollow fiber filter that removes bacteria, protozoa, and sediment, and it only weighs 10.9 ounces. The GravityWorks is also convenient because you can easily fill up water bottles or bladders.
5. LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle
The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is a great option for backpackers who want a filter that they can easily drink from on the go. The bottle has a built-in filter that removes bacteria and protozoa, and the filter can last up to 1,000 gallons of water. The LifeStraw Go is lightweight and has a carabiner so you can attach it to your pack or belt. The only downside is that the bottle can only filter water as you drink it, so you can't filter water for later use.
In conclusion, having a reliable water filtration system is essential for any backpacking trip. The above five options vary in size, weight, and functionality, but they're all great choices depending on your needs. Remember to consider the types of water filtration systems available and choose the one that works best for you. Lastly, always prioritize safety when it comes to drinking water in the great outdoors.