Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

Everyone exploring the backcountry needs water, but staying hydrated is not as simple as drinking straight from streams and lakes. To protect against protozoa, bacteria, and even viruses, there is a wide range of water filtration and purification systems built specifically for backpacking (many options on this list are great for day hiking, trail running, and travel, too). We've been testing water filters on backcountry adventures near and far since 2018, and our 18 current favorites below include everything from ultralight squeeze filters and chemical drops to pumps and large-quantity gravity filters. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Continue reading to learn about their favorite water filters, written by Jenny Abegg and Maddie Downie.

Switch Back Travel: Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

Everyone exploring the backcountry needs water, but staying hydrated is not as simple as drinking straight from streams and lakes. To protect against protozoa, bacteria, and even viruses, there is a wide range of water filtration and purification systems built specifically for backpacking (many options on this list are great for day hiking, trail running, and travel, too). We've been testing water filters on backcountry adventures near and far since 2018, and our 18 current favorites below include everything from ultralight squeeze filters and chemical drops to pumps and large-quantity gravity filters. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Continue reading to learn about their favorite water filters, written by Jenny Abegg and Maddie Downie.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Senior Editor (Former)
Jenny Abegg and Maddie Downie
Topics of Expertise: Climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hiking and backpacking, backcountry skiing
Media Mentions

Switch Back Travel: Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

Everyone exploring the backcountry needs water, but staying hydrated is not as simple as drinking straight from streams and lakes. To protect against protozoa, bacteria, and even viruses, there is a wide range of water filtration and purification systems built specifically for backpacking (many options on this list are great for day hiking, trail running, and travel, too). We've been testing water filters on backcountry adventures near and far since 2018, and our 18 current favorites below include everything from ultralight squeeze filters and chemical drops to pumps and large-quantity gravity filters. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

Continue reading to learn about their favorite water filters, written by Jenny Abegg and Maddie Downie.

Photo thumbnail Blog Author
Senior Editor (Former)
Jenny Abegg and Maddie Downie
Topics of Expertise: Climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hiking and backpacking, backcountry skiing
Media Mentions
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