When you go backpacking one piece of equipment that you definitely do need is a good water filter. Water filters for backpacking are important because drinking water in the outdoors without first filtering or purifying it is often a risky prospect. Even seemingly pristine water sources may be brimming with all kinds of stuff that will make you sick or worse. So if you really want to enjoy your backpacking experience, and not have it cut short by sickness, invest in a good water filter for backpacking.
Water Filters for Backpacking
Features to be aware of when shopping for water filters to take backpacking.- Lightweight – When it comes to water filters for backpacking it helps if the filter is lightweight, and also relatively small, to cut down on bulk. Experienced backpackers should be well aware of the fact that you have to carry everything you bring, and every ounce matters. Do yourself a favour and invest in a lightweight water filter to take backpacking.
- Filter Lifetime – Most all filters will need to be replaced eventually, but some will last longer than others. Many will last for 1000 liters or more, but some less, and if you use your filter quite a bit you may find yourself needing to replace that little thing more than you would otherwise like.
Best Water Filters for Backpacking
Some of the better water filters to take backpacking with you.- MSR MiniWorks EX Water Filter - The MiniWorks is a fantastic little pump water filter that many backpackers use. The bottom will fit securely on to a MSR Dromedary or a Nalgene bottle, and will also work with just about any other water bottle out there. It pumps out .83 liters per minute, and will go for 2000 liters before you need to replace anything. It weighs 14.6 ounces, or 416 grams.
- Platypus GravityWorks Filter - If you'd prefer not to do all that pumping, the GravityWorks is a fantastic choice for backpackers. It uses two bags, one for the dirty water and one for the clean. You hang the dirty water above the empty bag, and gravity forces the water through the hose that connects the two, and the filter, which is inline on the hose. It filters an impressive 1.75 liters per minute, and goes for 1501 liters before you need to replace anything. The whole system weighs just 10.7 ounces, or 305 grams.
- Katadyn Hiker PRO Microfilter - Another pump water filter, this time from Katadyn. The Hiker PRO is a popular choice with backpackers. It will put out roughly 1 liter per minute, and will go for about 750 liters before you need to replace the filter. Part of what makes it popular with backpackers is that it has a respectable weight of just 11 ounces, or 310 grams.
