Best Water Treatment for Backpacking
Water is one of the essentials. Bad water makes for a bad day, bad week, or even the end of a thru-hike. The major concern on the Pacific Crest Trail is giardia. But, diligently treating water can easily mitigate this risk and ease any anxiety from water-borne parasites. Much like resupplying food, continually replenishing water is a natural part of a thru-hike, so we compiled some of the most popular water treatment methods for PCT hikers.
There are many different methods of water purification – boiling, filtration, ultraviolet light, and chemical treatment with iodine and chlorine. All these methods are effective and proven to work for many successful backpackers. The key is finding the method and product you are most comfortable with. I have seen people hike the entire trail using iodine or other chemicals for purification despite filters being the most popular method. I have used a steripen for entire thru-hikes and never had issues. The trick is finding what method you will diligently use throughout the trip.
Besides simply boiling water — which uses too much fuel for backpacking — here are our recommended products and the most commonly seen on the Pacific Crest Trail.
June 6, 2022
PCT Thru Hiking
LIFE OUTDOORS
MEDIA MENTIONS
Fresh drinking water is essential. This water filtration system ensures you will never run out as long as there is a nearby natural water source. It can filter out bacteria, protozoa and microplastics.
MEDIA MENTIONS
Faster and more efficient than pumping or waiting for chemical treatments, the Sawyer Squeeze System offers on-the-go hydration at a good flow. This product is long-lasting, affordable, reliable, cleanable, and very user-friendly.
MEDIA MENTIONS
But Sawyer was way ahead of me — 15 years ahead, to be precise. In 2008, the brand started its Clean Water for All initiative, which provides Sawyer filters to developing countries around the world. And the company spends 90% of its profits funding it.
