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An ideal water filtration system for hiking should be effective in removing the broadest range of contaminants, easy to operate, lightweight, and highly portable. Components like the filter, the system’s speed, and its compatibility with different water sources are also crucial factors to consider.
Through rigorous testing and extensive research, we have identified some standout water filtration systems specifically geared towards hiking. We’ve evaluated them based on their effectiveness, durability, and overall value for money. By the end of this article, you will be well-equipped with the comprehensive information required for choosing the best water filtration system for your hiking needs.
Best Water Filtration System for Hiking
Selecting a top-notch water filtration system for hiking is crucial. It should efficiently eliminate harmful particles from diverse water sources, be user-friendly, lightweight, and easily transportable. There is no need to worry, we have created a list of top-performing systems based on our hands-on experience and extensive testing, which will help you navigate the crowded market of water filtration systems and make an informed decision.
Platypus Quickdraw Ultralight 1 Liter Backpacking Water Filter System, DrinkCap Only
If you’re looking for a lightweight and efficient water filter system for your backpacking trips, the Platypus Quickdraw Ultralight 1 Liter Backpacking Water Filter System, DrinkCap Only is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 0.6 micron pore size Hollow Fiber UF Membrane filter effectively removes bacteria like E. coli, Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella typhosa, and Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts.
- The 40-45 PSI working pressure of the filter ensures fast flow rates and easy hydration.
- The system is ultralight and compact, making it perfect for backpacking trips.
Cons
- The system only comes with a DrinkCap, so you’ll need to purchase additional accessories like a bottle adapter if you want to use it with other containers.
- The filter only has a 1,000-liter lifetime, which may not be enough for frequent or extended camping trips.
- The system may not be as durable as some other water filter options on the market.
We’ve used the Platypus Quickdraw Ultralight 1 Liter Backpacking Water Filter System, DrinkCap Only on several camping trips and have been impressed with its performance. The system is incredibly easy to use – simply fill your bottle, squish the air out of the DrinkCap, and dip the cap in the water to filter as you drink.
The 0.6 micron pore size Hollow Fiber UF Membrane filter is effective at removing bacteria, and the 40-45 PSI working pressure of the filter ensures fast flow rates and easy hydration. We appreciate that the system is ultralight and compact, making it perfect for backpacking trips.
However, we did find that the system only comes with a DrinkCap, so we had to purchase additional accessories like a bottle adapter if we wanted to use it with other containers. Additionally, the filter only has a 1,000-liter lifetime, which may not be enough for frequent or extended camping trips. Finally, we noticed that the system may not be as durable as some other water filter options on the market.
Overall, we think that the Platypus Quickdraw Ultralight 1 Liter Backpacking Water Filter System, DrinkCap Only is a great option for backpackers who want a lightweight and efficient water filter system. If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filter system for your camping trips, this one is definitely worth considering.
Sawyer Products SP2101 MINI Water Filtration System, 2-Pack, Blue and Green
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filtration system, the Sawyer Products SP2101 MINI Water Filtration System is a great choice.
Pros
- The system is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry while camping, hiking, or traveling.
- It removes 99.99999% of bacteria (Salmonella, Cholera and E.coli) and 99.9999% of protozoa (Giardia and Cryptosporidium), making your water safe to drink.
- The included 15% solution activated charcoal cleaning tablets clean and purify the Squeeze Filter, so you don’t have to buy a new one.
Cons
- The flow rate is slower than some other filters, but this is to be expected with a smaller filter.
- The filter needs to be primed with water before use, which can be a bit of a hassle.
- The filter can clog if you try to force water through it too quickly.
We’ve used the Sawyer Products SP2101 MINI Water Filtration System on several camping trips and it has always worked well. The filter is easy to use and the included syringe makes it easy to clean.
The system is also very effective at removing bacteria and protozoa from water, giving us peace of mind when we’re camping in areas with questionable water sources.
Overall, we highly recommend the Sawyer Products SP2101 MINI Water Filtration System to anyone looking for a reliable and effective water filtration system for camping or traveling.
Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System w/ Two 32-Oz Squeeze Pouches, Straw, and Hydration Pack Adapter
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient water filtration system, the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System is a great option.
Pros
- The system is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry on hikes or camping trips.
- The Sawyer Squeeze Filter is effective against bacteria, protozoa, and microplastics, providing you with clean and safe water to drink.
- The system is easy to use and clean, with no chemicals or filters to replace.
Cons
- The pouches can be difficult to fill with water without a hose or faucet.
- The system is not as durable as some other water filtration options on the market.
- The Sawyer Squeeze Filter may clog if not cleaned properly.
We’ve used the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System on several camping trips and hikes, and it has always provided us with clean and safe water to drink. The system is incredibly lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry, and the Sawyer Squeeze Filter is effective against a wide range of contaminants.
One of the biggest advantages of this system is its ease of use and cleanliness. Unlike some other water filtration options, the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System doesn’t require any chemicals or filters to be replaced, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, the system is easy to clean, ensuring that it stays effective and efficient for years to come.
However, there are a few downsides to the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System. For one, the pouches can be difficult to fill with water without a hose or faucet, which can be inconvenient in some situations. Additionally, the system is not as durable as some other water filtration options on the market, which may be a concern for frequent travelers or long-term campers. Finally, the Sawyer Squeeze Filter may clog if not cleaned properly, which can be a nuisance if you’re in a hurry to get a drink of water.
Overall, we highly recommend the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient water filtration option. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and effective against a wide range of contaminants, making it a great choice for hikers, campers, and travelers alike.
Aquatabs 49mg Water Purification Tablets (30 Pack)
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water purification tablet, Aquatabs 49mg Water Purification Tablets (30 Pack) is a great option.
Pros
- Fast and effective water treatment
- Easy to use with no waiting time
- Kills bacteria, viruses, and parasites
Cons
- The tablets are quite large and may be difficult to swallow for some people
- The tablets may not dissolve completely in dirty water
- The tablets may not be effective against heavy metals or chemicals
We’ve used Aquatabs 49mg Water Purification Tablets (30 Pack) in various outdoor and emergency situations, and we’ve found them to be fast and effective in treating contaminated water. The tablets are easy to use, and there’s no waiting time involved like with other water purification methods.
One of the main advantages of Aquatabs is that they kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which are the most common waterborne pathogens. We’ve used them to treat water from various sources, including streams, lakes, and even questionable tap water, and we’ve never had any issues with illness.
However, we’ve noticed that the tablets are quite large and may be difficult to swallow for some people. Additionally, if the water is particularly dirty, the tablets may not dissolve completely, which could affect their effectiveness. Finally, while Aquatabs are great at killing biological contaminants, they may not be effective against heavy metals or chemicals, so it’s important to use them wisely.
Overall, we highly recommend Aquatabs 49mg Water Purification Tablets (30 Pack) for anyone who needs a reliable and easy-to-use water purification method. They’re fast, effective, and easy to use, and they’ve saved us from many thirsty and uncomfortable situations.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filter for your outdoor adventures, the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a great option.
Pros
- The LifeStraw filter membrane is made in the USA and Swiss-made to filter water without chemicals, iodine, or batteries.
- The microfiltration technology removes bacteria (99.999995%), parasites (99.9999%), microplastics, and turbidity. It does not filter viruses.
- The filter is good for 1,000 liters (264 gallons) of water, which means you won’t have to replace it frequently.
Cons
- The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter does not filter viruses, so it may not be the best option if you’re planning to use it in areas with contaminated water.
- The straw may get clogged if you try to use it with water that has a lot of sediment or debris.
- The filter is not as effective at filtering water that is very cold or very hot.
We’ve used the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter on several camping trips and hikes, and it has always worked well. The straw is easy to use and doesn’t require any additional parts or accessories. We’ve also been impressed with how long the filter lasts – we’ve used it to filter several liters of water on each trip, and it still seems to be working just as well as it did on the first day.
One thing to keep in mind is that the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter does not filter viruses, so it may not be the best option if you’re planning to use it in areas with contaminated water. Additionally, the straw may get clogged if you try to use it with water that has a lot of sediment or debris. Finally, the filter is not as effective at filtering water that is very cold or very hot.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filter for your outdoor adventures, the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best water filtration system for hiking, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Filtration Type
There are two main types of filtration: mechanical and chemical. Mechanical filtration uses a physical barrier to remove impurities, while chemical filtration uses chemicals to kill bacteria and viruses. It’s important to choose a system that uses both types of filtration for maximum effectiveness.
Filtration Rate
The filtration rate refers to how quickly the system can filter water. This is important to consider if you plan to use the system to filter large amounts of water at once. Look for a system with a high filtration rate to ensure that you can filter water quickly and efficiently.
Portability
Since you’ll be hiking with the system, it’s important to choose one that is lightweight and portable. Look for a system that is easy to pack and carry, and that can be set up quickly and easily when you need it.
Durability
You’ll want a water filtration system that can withstand the rigors of hiking and outdoor use. Look for a system that is made from durable materials and that is built to last.
Ease of Use
Finally, choose a system that is easy to use. Look for a system with simple instructions and that requires minimal maintenance. This will ensure that you can use the system effectively and safely on your hiking trips.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best water filtration system for your hiking needs. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to test the system before using it on your hikes.
