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.

Here are the best backpacking water filters and water purifiers as well as tips for how to choose the right purification system for your adventures, written by by Kristen Bor.