What are the best water filter and purification treatment systems used by backpackers?

We asked backpackers whether they preferred filter-based systems, pump water filters, gravity filter systems, chemical purification or purification using an ultraviolet light.

Media Mentions from Section Hiker

Section Hiker

His website SectionHiker.com is ranked as the #1 Hiking and Backpacking Blog on the internet by AdventureJunkies.com in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Section Hiker: 10 Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2018

Smiling man wearing hiking gear and a hat stands in a forest with a large backpack.

Section Hiker

Last updated:

October 21, 2025

| 5 min read

Person collecting water from a creek in a grassy mountain valley for backpacking water treatment.

What are the best water filter and purification treatment systems used by backpackers?

We asked backpackers whether they preferred filter-based systems, pump water filters, gravity filter systems, chemical purification or purification using an ultraviolet light.

Media Mentions from Section Hiker

Section Hiker

His website SectionHiker.com is ranked as the #1 Hiking and Backpacking Blog on the internet by AdventureJunkies.com in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Media Mentions from Section Hiker

Section Hiker

His website SectionHiker.com is ranked as the #1 Hiking and Backpacking Blog on the internet by AdventureJunkies.com in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

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Section Hiker: 10 Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2018

Section Hiker

Last updated:

September 16, 2021

| 5 min read

What are the best water filter and purification treatment systems used by backpackers?

We asked backpackers whether they preferred filter-based systems, pump water filters, gravity filter systems, chemical purification or purification using an ultraviolet light.

Media Mentions from Section Hiker

Section Hiker

His website SectionHiker.com is ranked as the #1 Hiking and Backpacking Blog on the internet by AdventureJunkies.com in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

Media Mentions from Section Hiker

Section Hiker

His website SectionHiker.com is ranked as the #1 Hiking and Backpacking Blog on the internet by AdventureJunkies.com in 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021.

learn about the author

Reviews

Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad MembersSquad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.

We build products withindustry-leadingstandards and technology, designed to keep you outdoors for longer. Explore what others are saying about Sawyer.

News fromSawyer HQin Tampa Bay, FL, including product resources, updates in technology, and recent brand developments.

NewThere’s nothing like seeing hearing from those who are personally touched by the promise ofclean water. Explore their stories and lift your soul; you’ve made this work possible.

Stories and experiences encompassing a spread of outdoor enthusiasms, from theBackcountry to the Backyard^TM. What keeps you outdoors?

Trail tips and packing list guides for backcountry travel, gear choices.Trail guidesfor hiking, biking, thru-hiking and more.

Read aboutproduct reviewsfrom various media outlets, customers, community members, and outdoor gear websites.