BEST BACKPACKING WATER FILTERS AND PURIFIERS OF 2022
A backpacking water filter is a key essential for any multi-day outdoor adventure. Parasites and bacteria live in the lakes and rivers that you rely on to stay hydrated in the backcountry. Giardia is the most common and can cause abdominal cramping, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting – not exactly what you had planned for your next adventure, right?
Some argue that you don’t always need to filter water where streams are fed by fresh snow-melt, but keep in mind that if livestock, wildlife, or humans can reach an area, so can contaminants that are transferred via fecal matter.
It’s also important to understand the difference between a water filter and a water purifier so you can be sure that the water you’re drinking is clean, safe, and won’t cause illness out in the backcountry.
In this roundup, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a water filter or a purifier and share our favorite recommendations for your next adventure whether it’s a quick weekend backpacking trip, a car camping expedition, or a long-distance thru-hike.
December 3, 2023
Bearfoot Theory
An outdoor travel blog on a mission to inspire and empower you to get outside with a strong skill set
Hi! I’m Kristen. Thanks for stopping by! If you love to travel and spend time outside, you’ve come to the right place. I am here to inspire you to get out there and to help you plan your next adventure.
I started Bearfoot Theory because I wanted to dispel the myths that prevent many people from getting outside. As a late outdoor bloomer myself, I’ve found it easy to be intimidated by adventure websites and magazines that feature people skiing off cliffs and kayaking class 5 rapids. You might think, “if that’s what being outdoorsy is, then that’s not me!”
But I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to be a risk-taking, adrenaline junkie to have an awesome outdoor vacation. You also don’t need the most expensive gear, to plan for weeks on end, or do things that are beyond your comfort level.
My mission with Bearfoot Theory is to be a source of inspiration and information for everyday people looking to have an authentic outdoor experience. I’ll show you that an outdoor lifestyle is easy, inexpensive, accessible, and fun. I’ll share with you my favorite outdoor off-the-beaten-path destinations in the West (and occasionally elsewhere), tell you what gear you do and don’t need, and help you build more confidence in your outdoor abilities.
Explore More Content
Media Mentions
Personally, I use Sawyer’s Fabric Treatment–available in pump or spray–for my hunting and hiking clothes.
Media Mentions
Casserly’s favorite water treatment is a squeeze filter like the SAWYER SQUEEZE filtration system ($29, sawyer.com), which screws onto the included flasks or a plastic water bottle. Squeeze filters are ideal for individual use. They’re light and inexpensive, and you can drink the water immediately through the filter.
Media Mentions
While young babies should be protected with clothing and netting (not chemicals), older babies and children should use a suitable repellent to help avoid bites, discomfort, and insect-borne illnesses.
From the Squad
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
