Water filters on rocks.
Water filters on rocks.

The Best Backpacking Water Filters For Safe Sips From Streams, Rivers, And Lakes

Reliable access to clean drinking water is essential when you're miles from the nearest trailhead or paddling along a remote river. While clear streams and alpine lakes might look pristine, they can still harbor harmful bacteria, protozoa or viruses that could sideline your trip with illness.

That's where the best backpacking water filters come in. These compact, lightweight water purification devices aim to safely remove contaminants from natural water sources, giving you peace of mind with every sip during a weekend hike or a multi-day trek.

Continue reading about the best water filters for backpacking, written by Meg Carney.

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Contributing Writer
Meg Carney

Meg Carney is a staff writer for Field & Stream. Author of the Outdoor Minimalist and host of the Outdoor Minimalist podcast, Carney has been an outdoor and environmental writer for over six years. After studying communication arts and literature in Duluth, Minnesota, she pursued various outdoor-industry jobs that eventually led her to her current career in freelance writing. Carney joined the Field & Stream team in the fall of 2021 as a gear writer.

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

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Stephanie Soucheray
Reporter