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Best Water Filters For Backpacking (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to keep yourself hydrated while on the go, water filters for backpacking can be a great solution. These filters are designed to remove impurities from natural water sources, making it safe and ready to drink at a moment’s notice. However, before you invest in a water filter, there are several key factors you’ll need to consider.

One important consideration when shopping for a water filter is the type of filter you need. Some filters use activated carbon or ceramic to remove impurities, while others rely on UV technology or chemicals like iodine. It’s also important to consider the size and weight of the filter, as well as its capacity and durability.

To help you choose the best water filter for your needs, ask yourself some important questions. For example, how often will you be using the filter? Will you be traveling alone or with a group? Do you prefer a pump filter or one that can be used with a straw? By taking the time to answer these questions, you can find a water filter that meets your needs and fits your budget.

No matter what your outdoor activities entail, a high-quality water filter for backpacking can be a valuable investment. Not only does it make it easier to stay hydrated on the trail, but it can also help reduce your environmental impact by reducing the need for disposable water bottles. So why wait? Start shopping for your perfect water filter today!

10 Best Water Filters For Backpacking

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for filtering water during endurance sports, camping and backpacking due to its fast flow and membrane.
2
Ideal for filtering water for personal or small group use during camping, backpacking or emergency preparedness situations.
3
It is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and traveling to filter water from natural sources.
4
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as backpacking and camping, providing a lightweight and portable water purification solution.
5
The product is ideal for filtering water during outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and backpacking.
6
The product is ideal for filtering water during endurance sports, camping, and backpacking, providing fast flow and 0.1-micron filtration.
7
Ideal for filtering water during camping, backpacking, or emergency situations to make it safe for drinking.
8
Ideal for filtering water while camping, traveling, backpacking and emergency preparedness.
9
The product is ideal for filtering water in remote and outdoor environments, making it safe for drinking.
10
Ideal for camping, backpacking, travel, and emergency preparedness as it purifies water from any freshwater source.
The product is ideal for filtering water during endurance sports, camping and backpacking due to its fast flow and membrane.
Ideal for filtering water for personal or small group use during camping, backpacking or emergency preparedness situations.
It is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and traveling to filter water from natural sources.
The product is ideal for outdoor activities such as backpacking and camping, providing a lightweight and portable water purification solution.
The product is ideal for filtering water during outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and backpacking.
The product is ideal for filtering water during endurance sports, camping, and backpacking, providing fast flow and 0.1-micron filtration.
Ideal for filtering water during camping, backpacking, or emergency situations to make it safe for drinking.
Ideal for filtering water while camping, traveling, backpacking and emergency preparedness.
The product is ideal for filtering water in remote and outdoor environments, making it safe for drinking.
Ideal for camping, backpacking, travel, and emergency preparedness as it purifies water from any freshwater source.

1. Befree Sport Water Filter – Lightning Fast & Efficient.

The 0.1 micron water filter is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers as it removes harmful bacteria and protozoa like Giardia & Cryptosporidium from contaminated water sources with 99.9999% and 99.9% efficiency respectively, surpassing EPA standards. Its compact design makes it easy to store, as the collapsible 1.0L hydrapak soft bottle flask can fit in tight spaces like jacket pockets, purses or backpacks with ease.

Cleaning the filter is a breeze, thanks to the Ez-clean Membrane that requires no backflushing or extra tools. Simply shake or swish the filter to clean debris and maintain its longevity. The filter can effectively purify up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water without using any chemicals or other devices, making it a reliable and eco-friendly choice for outdoor adventures.

Hydrating on the go is made easy with the free flow channels fast flow rate that ensures quick and easy hydration. The stay clean drink nozzle keeps the mouthpiece clean and sanitary, and it is replaceable with standard plastic water bottle caps.

Pros

  • Removes harmful bacteria and protozoa with great efficiency
  • Compact design for easy storage and portability
  • Simple and easy to clean with no backflushing or extra tools required
  • Filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water without using chemicals or other devices
  • Free flow channels fast flow rate for quick and easy hydration
  • Stay clean drink nozzle keeps the mouthpiece clean and sanitary

2. Pocketfiltr – Ultimate Portable Water Filter

The pocket water filter is an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts and international travelers. It is designed to filter all microorganisms larger than 0.2 microns, including bacteria and protozoa, to produce clean and drinkable water. The filter's silver-impregnated ceramic element is highly effective and ensures that the filtered water is safe to drink.

The round pump handle of the filter makes it easy to pump water. The outlet hose can be attached to containers with a clip, making it highly convenient to use. It is a highly durable and portable water filtration system that is perfect for use in the great outdoors or while traveling internationally.

Pros

  • Effective against bacteria and protozoa
  • Filters all microorganisms larger than 0.2 microns
  • Produces clear, drinkable water
  • Easy to pump with the round handle
  • Outlet hose can be attached to containers with a clip
  • Highly durable and portable

3. Sawyer Squeeze Water Kit: Ready Anywhere!

The Portable Water Filter is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and those preparing for emergencies. This filter is designed to remove harmful bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediments, and 100% of microplastics, ensuring that the water you drink is clean and safe.

With a high-performance 0.1-micron absolute inline filter, this water filter fits in the palm of your hand, weighing just 2 ounces. Each Micro Squeeze unit is individually tested three times to performance standards by Sawyer, so you can trust that it's reliable and effective.

The filter comes with a built-in and removable flip-top sports cap, allowing you to spray water straight into your mouth or bottle from the included pouch. It also fits standard water bottles with 28 mm threads. The kit includes two reusable 32-oz, BPA-free collapsible pouches that roll up tightly for easy packing, a drinking straw, one set of Sawyer inline hydration pack adapters for the filter, and a mesh storage bag.

Whether you're hiking, camping, or traveling to places where clean water isn't readily available, the Portable Water Filter is a convenient and reliable solution to keep you hydrated and healthy.

Pros

  • Removes harmful bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediments, and 100% of microplastics
  • High-performance 0.1-micron absolute inline filter
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Built-in and removable flip-top sports cap for easy drinking
  • Comes with two reusable 32-oz, BPA-free collapsible pouches
  • Includes a drinking straw, hydration pack adapters, and a mesh storage bag

Cons

  • – May require frequent cleaning to maintain optimal performance
  • – May not filter out viruses

4. Survivor Pro Portable Water Purifier – 99.999% Removal.

The compact and easy-to-use water purification filter is the perfect companion for camping, hiking, and backpacking enthusiasts. Weighing only 12.8oz, it is one of the lightest and most compact water purification filters available in the market. The portable water filter pump comes with filters, tubes, a cup, and a bag, making it a complete camping water purifier kit. It does not require charging or waiting for clean water, ensuring you stay prepared for whatever the wilderness offers.

This survival water filter boasts a fast flow rate of 500ml (17oz) per minute, making it the perfect camping water purifier. The filter is tested to remove 99.999% of tested Virus, Staph, Bacteria, and Protozoa, and it reduces heavy metals according to NSF/ANSI Standards, making it a reliable water filter survival tool. It is also BPA-free, making it safe for use.

The company offers a lifetime happiness guarantee, as it is a North American company in business for over 10 years. Their philosophy is that every customer is for life, and they will fix, replace, or refund any product for a lifetime, no questions asked. With this water purifier camping, you can be sure of clean water wherever you go.

Pros

  • Compact and easy-to-use
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Fast flow rate of 500ml per minute
  • Tested to remove 99.999% of tested Virus, Staph, Bacteria, and Protozoa
  • Reduces heavy metals according to NSF/ANSI Standards
  • BPA-free
  • Comes with filters, tubes, cup, and bag
  • Lifetime happiness guarantee

5. Sawyer Products Sp128 Mini Water Filtration System, Single, Blue

The Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System is a high-performance inline filter that is ideal for outdoor recreation, hiking, camping, scouting, domestic, and international travel, and emergency preparedness. It fits in the palm of your hand and weighs just 2 ounces, making it easy to carry around. The filter is rated up to 100,000 gallons, ensuring that you will have access to clean water for a long time.

The filter removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, including salmonella, cholera, and E. coli, and 99.9999% of all protozoa, such as giardia and cryptosporidium. Additionally, it removes 100% of microplastics, ensuring that you have safe, clean drinking water wherever you go.

The Sawyer MINI comes with a 16-ounce reusable squeeze pouch, a 7-inch drinking straw, and a cleaning plunger. It can be attached to the included drinking pouch, standard disposable water bottles, hydration packs, or used to drink directly from a water source using the straw. The filter is tested three times to performance standards by Sawyer to ensure that it meets the highest quality standards.

Before initial wetting, the filter is safe from freezing temperatures. However, after it has been wetted, there is no definitive way to tell if it has been damaged due to freezing. If you suspect that the filter has been frozen, Sawyer recommends replacing it. If you are in freezing temperatures during your trip, it is recommended that you store the filter in your pocket or close to your person to prevent freezing.

Pros

  • High-performance inline filter that removes 99.99999% of all bacteria, 99.9999% of protozoa, and 100% of microplastics
  • Rated up to 100,000 gallons for long-lasting use
  • Lightweight and compact, fits in the palm of your hand
  • Can be attached to various containers or used with the included straw
  • Comes with a cleaning plunger for easy maintenance

Cons

  • – May need to be replaced if suspected to be damaged due to freezing

6. Ezflow Water Filter For Outdoor Adventures

The 1 micron water filter is an excellent tool to ensure that the water you drink is free from harmful organisms such as bacteria and protozoa like giardia & Cryptosporidium. This filter removes 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa, surpassing EPA standards. The EZ-clean Membrane makes cleaning the filter simple and easy; just shake or swish the filter to clean debris, and no backflushing or extra tools are required. With the collapsible 0.6L hydrapak soft bottle flask, you can pack it down small to fit in tight spaces such as pant or jacket pockets, purses, cycling jerseys, or fly vests. With the filter's ability to filter up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water without using chemicals or other devices, you can hydrate quickly and easily with the free flow channels' fast flow rate. The Stay clean drink nozzle keeps the mouthpiece clean and sanitary, which is replaceable with standard plastic water bottle caps.

Pros

  • Removes harmful organisms like bacteria and protozoa like giardia & Cryptosporidium
  • Surpasses EPA standards
  • EZ-clean Membrane is simple and easy to clean
  • Collapsible 0.6L hydrapak soft bottle flask packs down small to fit in tight spaces
  • Filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water without using chemicals or other devices
  • Hydrate quickly and easily with the free flow channels' fast flow rate
  • Stay clean drink nozzle keeps the mouthpiece clean and sanitary

7. Katadyn Pro Water Filter – Compact & Transparent.

The water filter is an ultra-light and compact option for backpackers who need clean and safe drinking water on the go. It is equipped with pleated glass-fiber filter media, which provides proven protection against bacteria and protozoan cysts as small as 0.2 microns. Additionally, the filter features an activated carbon core that enhances the taste of the water and reduces chemicals present in it.

One of the standout features of this filter is its field cleanable filter protector screen that helps extend the life of the cartridge, making it a trusted option for backpackers even in challenging conditions. Its transparent design allows you to see the filtration process and ensures that you can monitor the cleanliness of the water.

The water filter is compatible with hydration bladders, making it an excellent choice for hikers who need to stay hydrated on longer treks. It weighs just 11oz and is compact in size, making it easy to carry in a backpack without taking up too much space.

Pros

  • Proven protection against bacteria and protozoan cysts down to 0.2 microns
  • Activated carbon core improves the taste and reduces chemicals in drinking water
  • Field cleanable filter protector screen extends the life of the cartridge
  • Transparent design allows you to see the filtration working
  • Ultra-light and compact, weighing just 11oz

8. Gravity Water Filtration System – Waterdrop Purifier

The Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency situations. It features a 5-stage filtration system that effectively removes harmful substances such as chlorine, sediment, stones, sand, dirt, bad taste, and odor in water, delivering a safe and better drinking experience. The filtration system includes premium-quality coconut shell activated carbon, 0.1um ultrafiltration membrane, and other raw materials.

This water filter straw is designed for convenience and versatility. It comes with a 1.5-gallon gravity-fed water bag that can hold up to 11 bottles of 500ml bottled purified water, providing enough water for outdoor activities and first aid survival. The water filter straw can be connected with water bags or water bottles to filter water for drinking. Both ends of the straw can be disassembled and connected with water bags and water bottles, offering clean drinking water anytime, anywhere.

The Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw has an innovative backwash purifier function that keeps the inside of the straw clean at all times. It is also recyclable, safe, and pollution-free, ensuring a longer lifespan and providing safe drinking water for up to 1,400 gallons (5,300 liters). With a maximum water flow rate of up to 700 ml/min, it provides a more relaxed outdoor water drinking experience.

The Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is suitable for various outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, domestic and international travel, and emergency preparedness (tornadoes, rainstorms, earthquakes, floods, etc.). It meets the emergency water demand in a variety of situations.

Note that if the gravity bag is used to filter water, the drainage valve must be turned on first to empty air from the hose before connecting it with the straw to avoid no water flow in a vacuum state.

Pros

  • 5-stage efficient filtration system effectively removes harmful substances in water
  • Comes with a 1.5-gallon gravity-fed water bag providing enough water for outdoor activities
  • Innovative backwash purifier function keeps the inside of the straw clean at all times
  • Recyclable, safe, and pollution-free with a longer lifespan
  • Maximum water flow rate of up to 700 ml/min provides a more relaxed outdoor water drinking experience
  • Suitable for various outdoor activities and emergency situations

9. Msr Miniworks Ex Backountry Water Filter

The Microfilter Water Filter Pump is the perfect solution for outdoor adventurers who need to filter water from lakes, rivers, and streams. This pump is designed for hiking, backpacking, camping, travel, survival, and emergency preparedness.

The filter cartridge is replaceable and made of carbon and ceramic, which can remove bacteria, protozoa, organic compounds, and particulate contaminants, delivering clean, taste and odor-free water. The pump can filter at a rate of one liter per minute, and it is compatible with a variety of wide-mouth water bottles and hydration bladders (sold separately).

The pump meets NSF protocol P231 for removal of bacteria (99.9999%) and protozoa (99.9%), ensuring that the water is safe to drink. One replaceable filter cartridge can treat up to 2,000 liters of water, which is perfect for extended outdoor trips. The pump measures 7.5 x 2.75 inches and weighs only 1 pound, making it easy to pack and carry. It also comes with a storage bag for convenience.

This Microfilter Water Filter Pump is made in the USA and comes with a manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty. It is an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts who value clean and safe drinking water while on the go.

Pros

  • Replaceable carbon and ceramic filter removes bacteria, protozoa, organic compounds, and particulate contaminants, delivering clean, taste and odor-free water
  • Pumps at a rate of one liter per minute; compatible with a variety of wide-mouth water bottles and hydration bladders (sold separately)
  • Meets NSF protocol P231 for removal of bacteria (99.9999%) and protozoa (99.9%)
  • One replaceable filter cartridge treats up to 2,000 liters of water
  • Pump measures 7.5 x 2.75 inches and weighs only 1 pound, making it easy to pack and carry
  • Comes with a storage bag for convenience
  • Manufacturer’s limited lifetime warranty
  • Made in the USA

10. Gravity Filtration System For Travel

The Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is an innovative and efficient solution for outdoor water purification. It utilizes a 5-stage filtration system, which includes a premium-quality coconut shell activated carbon, 0.1 um ultrafiltration membrane, and other raw materials. This powerful combination ensures that the Water Filter Straw can effectively reduce harmful substances like chlorine, particulates, sediment, stones, sand, dirt, bad taste, and odor in water to ensure the water safety and deliver a better drinking experience.

This Water Filter Straw is designed to meet the all-day demand for outdoor water drinking. The package includes a 1.5 gal Gravity-Fed Water Bag that can hold up to 1.5 Gallons of water at a time, which is about 11 bottles of 500 ml bottled purified water. The large-capacity water bag is perfect for outdoor activities and first aid survival.

The Water Filter Straw has an innovative backwash purifier function, which allows the inside of the straw to be kept clean at all times. It is also recyclable, safe and pollution-free. With this feature, the Waterdrop Filter Straw can provide safe drinking water up to 1,400 gallons (5,300 liters)/ one straw, and ensures the maximum water flow rate of up to 700 ml/min to provide a more relaxed outdoor water drinking experience.

The Water Filter Straw is versatile and can be connected with water bags or water bottles to filter water for drinking. Both ends of it can be disassembled and connected with the water bags and the water bottles to offer you clean drinking water anytime, anywhere. However, note that if the gravity bag is used to filter water, turn on the drainage valve first to empty air from the hose before connecting with the straw to avoid no water flow in a vacuum state.

As a necessity for outdoor water purification, the Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is applicable to hiking, camping, domestic and international travel, emergency preparedness (tornadoes, rainstorms, earthquakes, floods, etc.) to meet the emergency water demand in a variety of situations.

Pros

  • 5-stage filtration system ensures safe drinking water
  • Large-capacity water bag meets all-day demand for outdoor water drinking
  • Innovative backwash purifier function keeps the inside of the straw clean at all times
  • Recyclable, safe and pollution-free
  • Versatile and can be connected with water bags or water bottles to filter water for drinking
  • Applicable to various outdoor activities, emergency situations, and travel

Best Water Filters For Backpacking FAQs

Can I use a water filter to purify water from natural sources while backpacking?

Yes, using a water filter is a great way to purify water from natural sources while backpacking. It is important to note that not all water filters are created equal, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs. Look for a filter that can remove bacteria, protozoa, and viruses, which are the most common contaminants found in natural water sources. Some filters are also designed to remove sediment and other particles that can affect the taste and clarity of the water. It is also important to properly maintain and clean your filter to ensure that it continues to work effectively. While a water filter can be a great tool for purifying water while backpacking, it is always a good idea to also carry a backup method such as water purification tablets or a UV light purifier in case your filter becomes damaged or clogged.

How do I choose the right water filter for my backpacking trip?

Choosing the right water filter for your backpacking trip is crucial to ensure that you have access to clean and safe drinking water. There are several factors to consider when making your decision. Firstly, you should consider the type of filter you want to use. There are different types of filters, such as pump filters, gravity filters, and squeeze filters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you should choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Secondly, you should consider the size and weight of the filter. Since you will be carrying the filter in your backpack, it should be lightweight and compact. You don't want a heavy and bulky filter that will take up too much space in your backpack.

Thirdly, you should consider the filter's filtration capacity and speed. The filtration capacity will determine how much water the filter can purify before needing to be replaced or cleaned. The filtration speed will determine how quickly the filter can purify water.

Lastly, you should consider the overall durability and reliability of the filter. You want a filter that can withstand the rigors of backpacking and that you can depend on to provide clean and safe drinking water.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right water filter for your backpacking trip and ensure that you have access to clean and safe drinking water throughout your journey.

How often should I replace the filter in my backpacking water filter?

As a backpacker, it is essential to have access to clean drinking water while on your adventure. Backpacking water filters are a popular choice for many campers to ensure that they have access to safe drinking water. However, it is crucial to know when to replace the filter in your backpacking water filter.

The frequency of replacing the filter depends on various factors such as the quality of the water source, the frequency of use, and the type of filter you have. Generally, most backpacking water filters can last for around 1000 liters of water, but this can vary depending on the filter.

It is essential to check the manufacturer's instructions to know when to replace the filter. Some filters come with indicators that will notify you when it's time to replace the filter. If your filter doesn't have an indicator, it's recommended to replace the filter after six months of use or at least once a year.

In conclusion, it's crucial to replace your backpacking water filter regularly to ensure that you have access to safe drinking water while on your adventure. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure to check your filter's instructions to know when to replace it.

What are the best water filters for backpacking?

When it comes to backpacking, having access to clean and safe drinking water is essential. Fortunately, there are many water filters available on the market that are designed specifically for backpacking.

One popular option is the Sawyer Mini Water Filter. It is lightweight and compact, making it easy to fit into a backpack, and can filter up to 100,000 gallons of water. The filter removes 99.9999% of bacteria and protozoa, including Giardia and E. coli.

Another great option is the Katadyn BeFree Water Filtration System. It is also lightweight and compact, and can filter up to 1,000 liters of water. The filter removes bacteria, protozoa, and sediment, and has a fast flow rate.

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is another popular choice. It is lightweight and easy to use, and can filter up to 1,000 gallons of water. The filter removes 99.9999% of bacteria and protozoa, and also has a long shelf life.

Ultimately, the best water filter for backpacking will depend on individual needs and preferences. It is important to consider factors such as weight, filtration capacity, and ease of use when choosing a water filter for your backpacking trip.

What features should I look for in a backpacking water filter?

When it comes to selecting a backpacking water filter, there are several features that you should consider. First and foremost, it is essential to choose a filter that is lightweight and compact since you will be carrying it with you during your trip. The filter should also be easy to use and maintain, as you do not want to spend a lot of time and effort on it when you could be enjoying your adventure.

Another significant factor to consider is the filter's filtration capacity, which should be sufficient to remove harmful bacteria, viruses, and protozoa from the water source. It is also important to choose a filter that can handle a variety of water sources, including streams, lakes, and rivers.

Additionally, the filter's flow rate is a crucial consideration, as it will determine how quickly you can access clean water. A high flow rate is ideal for backpackers who are always on the move.

Finally, durability is an important feature to look for in a backpacking water filter. It should be able to withstand harsh conditions and last for many trips to come. By considering these factors, you can select the best water filter for your backpacking needs.

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