water filters
The main difference between a water purifier and a water filter is the level of filtration. Water filters typically remove larger particles such as sediment, debris, and some bacteria, but may not be effective against viruses or smaller pathogens.
Water purifiers use additional methods such as chemical treatment or ultraviolet light to kill viruses and other microscopic organisms.
A water filter is usually just fine for backcountry camping in areas where the water is relatively clean, but if you're in an area where there's a higher risk of waterborne illnesses, a water purifier is the way to go.
The filter should be able to provide a decent flow rate, so you can easily fill your water bottles or hydration bladder without having to wait for Christmas. Your water filter should also be able to handle being dropped or knocked around, and being exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Since backcountry camping involves carrying all your gear on your back, the filter should be lightweight and compact enough to fit easily into your backpack.
A good water filter should be simple to operate, with clear instructions that are easy to follow even in low light conditions. Quick story: Our first water filter was the type you pump by hand, and at the end of a long day of paddling, the last thing we wanted was to get back out on the lake and give our arms more exercise pumping the damn filter. We finally got smart and switched to a gravity fed model, and I can tell you we'll never go back.
Final point. Your water filter should be able to last for a long time and provide a high volume of filtered water before needing to be replaced. Some filters need frequent cleaning or replacement of parts, while others are designed to be low maintenance. Replacement parts can be expensive, so make sure you get the highest quality filter you can to save costs down the road.
Water filter reviews
Compact and lightweight, the Sawyer SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System includes 2 reusable 32-ounce (907 gram), BPA-free collapsible (roll up) pouches, drinking straw, 1 set of Sawyer inline hydration pack adapters for filter, and a mesh storage bag. Measuring 5.5 inches (14 cm) high x 1.9 inches (5 cm) width x 1.9 inches (5 cm) long and weighing 2.5 ounces (71 grams), it is simple to use and assemble. Minimal effort is required to filter water.
The hollow fiber membrane filter is rated to 0.1 micron absolute filtration. The Squeeze Filter removes 99.99999% of bacteria such as salmonella, cholera, leptospirosis, and e. Coli, and removes 99. 9999% of protozoa such as giardia and cryptosporidium (independent testing laboratory Hydration, LLC.; microbiological report S05-03). The Squeeze Filter also filters out 100% of microplastics. Note, there are no viruses listed if that's an issue where you're going.
To use, fill the reusable pouch at any water source, screw the filter onto the pouch, and drink directly from the filter or squeeze into a water bottle.
The Sawyer Squeeze Filter can be used as a standalone, connected to a hydration bladder or any standard water bottle with 28 mm (1.1 inch) threads. It has a built-in and removable flip-top sports cap. You can spray water straight into your mouth or a bottle from the pouch.
This squeeze system has a high flow rate and filters up to 100,000 gallons (378,541 liters) of water over its lifespan. Replace the filter cartridge after that. It isn't unusual to experience a decrease in flow-rate over time. You either need stronger squeezing or frequent backwashing to maintain adequate water flow.
To clean and maintain, thoroughly backwash and sanitize to prevent clogging or bacterial growth.
Katadyn BeFree 1L Water Filter
This collapsible 1-liter (33.8 fl. oz/1 quart) hydrapak soft bottle flask is PVC and BPA free, easy to carry and a breeze to use. Measuring 10 inches (26.5 cm) high x 2.5 (6.5 cm) wide x 3 inches (8 cm) long and weighing 2.2 ounces (63 grams), simply fill, shake or swish to filter the water, and squeeze out.
The hollow fiber filter membrane is rated 0.1 micron and removes bacteria and protozoa, including harmful microorganisms like giardia and cryptosporidium, and sediment. No viruses though!
The Katadyn BeFree Filter comes with a stay-clean drink nozzle to keep the mouthpiece clean. It's replaceable with standard plastic water bottle caps.
The flow rate is excellent, filtering up to 0.5 gallons (2 liters) per minute. Output is 264 gallons (1,000 liters) over its lifetime before replacing the filter. High sediment clogs the filter relatively quickly though.
You clean the filter by removing it from the collapsible flask and shaking or swishing it in your water source. No backflushing or extra tools required.
The collapsible soft flask develops leaks or tears after extended use or if you accidentally drop it. And those with sensitive taste buds claim a slightly plastic or chemical taste in the filtered water when the filter is new. This taste diminishes with use over time.
The highly portable Sawyer SP128 Mini Water Filtration System is equipped with one mini filter, one 16-ounce (0.5 liter) pouch, one drinking straw, and one cleaning plunger. Measuring 5.35 inches (13.5 cm) high x 1.35 inches (3.5 cm) wide x 1.35 inches (3.5 cm) long, the Sawyer Mini weighs a mere 1.4 ounces (40 grams).
Use as a straw, attached to a water bottle, or with the collapsible pouch. It's that simple!
The hollow fiber filter fits in the palm of your hand and is rated 0.1 micron. It removes 99.99999% of all bacteria (salmonella, cholera, and E. coli); removes 99.9999% of all protozoa (such as giardia and cryptosporidium). The filter also removes 100% of microplastics - but no viruses, if this is a concern.
The Sawyer Mini has a long lifespan, up to 100,000 gallons, before needing a replacement filter.
Some folks experienced a decrease in flow rate over time, especially when filtering water with high sediment. Regular backwashing maintains optimal performance. Also, the connection points may spring leaks after extended use.
Sawyer recommends replacing your filter if you suspect it's been frozen. If you are hiking or camping in freezing temperatures, store your filter in your pocket or close to your person so that your body heat prevents freezing.
Katadyn gravity BeFree 3.0L Water Filter
This lightweight, collapsible water filter makes your job easier after a long hike by using gravity to purify the water. The system includes a microfilter and collapsible 3.0L (101 fl. oz /3 quarts) hydrapak soft bottle flask. It features a removable outlet hose with auto shut-off to avoid cross contamination during refilling, an integrated bail handle on the nozzle, and a carry strap to make fetching water from the source easier.
The Katadyn Gravity Water Filter measures 17.6 inches (45 cm) high x 2.9 inches (7 cm) wide x 9 inches (23 cm) long and weighs 0.4 pounds (181 grams). The hollow fiber filter is rated 0.1 micron and removes 99.9999% of harmful organisms like bacteria and protozoa (such as Giardia & Cryptosporidium). No viruses however.
The flow rate is 2L (68 fl. oz/2 quarts) per minute. The Gravity Water Filter has a lifespan of 264 gallons (1,000 liters) before the cartridge needs to be replaced.
Simply fill the flask with water and attach the filter/cap. Carry it back to camp around your neck. Position the hose above a separate canister, bottle or water. The higher the filter from the container, the better the flow rate. Release the auto shut-off to start the water flowing.
Clean by simply shaking or swishing the filter to clear debris. No backflushing or extra tools required. If the flow rate slows, try cleaning the filter more frequently between uses.
Note the small cap/filter end of the bag opens for scooping up water, rather than the large rear portion of the bag. While there is a handle to pull the bag through the water, it still requires several scoops to get the bag full in a shallow water source. At the same time, the handle is a blessing for keeping hands free from icy mountain streams.
The collapsible soft flask can develop leaks or tears after extended use. And some claim a slightly plastic taste in the filtered water when the filter is new. This taste diminishes with use.
Katadyn Micropur Water Purifier Tablets
Need peace of mind when viruses are an issue? Pack Katadyn Micropur Water Purifier Tablets to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, like giardia and cryptosporidium. Available in packs of 20 or 30 tablets, these chlorine dioxide tablets purify at a ratio of 1:1, or 1 tablet to 1 liter (33.8 fl. oz/1 quart) of water.
Easily add to water bottles, hydration bladders, or other containers. Wait for the tablet to dissolve - usually 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours if the water is cold and dirty. Drink.
A few folks find a slight chlorine taste, or odor, in the treated water when the ratio 1:1 (1 tablet to 1 liter) isn't followed. Otherwise, the taste is generally good.
Katadyn's Micropur tablets have a long shelf life: 5 years from the date of manufacture. If you don't use on this trip, save the tablets for the next.
GOT FEEDBACK?
If you've used one of the water filters I reviewed and you have something to add that could help other campers, I'd love to hear it.
Same, if you have a water filter you love (or hate) that's not reviewed here, tell me about it and I'll pass it on.
Your fellow campers thank you!
