Man filtering water from Sawyer squeeze filter into water bottle
Man filtering water from Sawyer squeeze filter into water bottle

By Amber King and Jessica Haist

Best Backpacking Water Filter of 2020


Our experts have tested over 70 of the best backpacking filters of the last decade. This 2020 update features 24 of the market's current and best for use in the backcountry. We have spent years trundling through dense forests, climbing to the tops of mountains, exploring the far reaches of the Northern Hemisphere, and sampling water sources for all around. We have filtered thousands of liters of water from pristine lakes to polluted puddles and rivers across the world in the process of testing these products. After testing each product, hands-on, and comparing performance, we offer your recommendations to purify and filter water effectively while exploring the great outdoors.

Scope out all 24 backpacking filter recommendations here.

Media Mentions

It all starts with Sawyer Squeeze + Cnoc VectoX 2L, the best and most reliable filter-bladder combo and the core of my backpacking water storage and filtration system.

Jaeger Shaw
Owner & Managing Editor

Media Mentions

Our top water filter for thru hiking, the Sawyer Squeeze, is 15% off.

Naomi Hudetz
Chief Operating Officer & Online Editor

Media Mentions

People with alpha-gal syndrome show allergic symptoms such as rash, nausea and vomiting after eating such meat.

Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter