The Best Backpacking Filter For 2024
By, Sara RyanUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Membrane Solutions Personal Water Filter, Portable Water Purifier
We all know that water is essential to life, but it’s important to think about where your water comes from and how safe it is. Membrane Solutions Personal Water Filter, Portable Water Purifier filters up to 5,000 liters (1,320 gallons) of water in a long lifespan and provides you with pure clean drinking water in the form of straw and filtration pouch. The filter removes 99.99% of harmful bacteria like Giardia and Cryptosporidium Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Survivor Water Purification System Portable Filter for Backpacking
The Survivor Water Purification System is the perfect solution for your backpacking needs. It's lightweight, durable and portable. The Survivor purification system uses a 100% filtration method with a micro-filtration cartridge that has been independently tested to remove 99.999% of viruses, staph, parasites and bacteria, and reduce heavy metals by 99.5% of mercury and 93% lead. This ultra-lightweight system is based on the EPA standards for water filters! Read Review
3. Best Economical: Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter, Fast Flow, 0.1 Micron EZ Clean
This collapsible hydrapak soft bottle is perfect for those with limited space in their bags. It filters up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water without using chemicals or other devices and hydrate quickly and easily with the free flow channels. Read Review
4. Best Portable: BeFree 0.6L Water Filter, Fast Flow, 0.1 Micron EZ Clean Membrane
This 0.6L water filter by BeFree removes harmful organisms like bacteria, protozoa and more, surpassing EPA standards. The small size makes it easy to carry with you any place you go, while the push-button operation ensures a quick, easy cleanse without chemicals or other devices. Read Review
Backpacking can be a lot more fun than you think it will be. You get to see different parts of nature that you wouldn’t have seen otherwise, even though there is always the risk of getting bitten or stung by one of the countless insects and other small creatures we come into contact with daily. If you’re planning on backpacking, you’ll probably want to bring some filters with you to ensure that you don’t get too much exposure to anything that might make your trip unpleasant.
Backpacking can be a lot more fun than you think it will be. You get to see different parts of nature that you wouldn’t have seen otherwise, even though there is always the risk of getting bit or stung by one of the countless insects and other small creatures we come into contact with every day. If you’re planning on backpacking, you’ll probably want to bring some of the best backpacking filters to ensure you don’t get too much exposure to anything that might make your trip unpleasant.
You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the Membrane Solutions Personal Water Filter, Portable Water Purifier with BPA-Free ABS as our top product. Or you can check the Survivor Water Purification System Portable Filter for Backpacking as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.
RELATED: We discovered 10 best backpack water bottle from 110,041 evaluations from former users. Check it out here and find the best.
Our Top Picks
- ✅High-Quality Materials & Versatile Filtering Modes - Build out of strong food-grade plastics, manufactured with BPA-Free ABS, ensures water safety and delivers a better drinking experience. Compared to the big filter straw on the market, Membrane Solutions water filters have a smaller frame, more convenient to use and more filtered modes, ideal for connecting with soft water pouch or disposable water bottles to squeeze, even as a replacement gravity filter to get pure water for family & group.
- ✅Smaller Pore Size - We all know that the smaller pore size, the higher the filtering accuracy, Our pore size is 0.1 microns which can filter out 99.99999% of the tiny material. Compared to the 0.2-micron filter straw on the market, Membrane Solutions 0.1microns pore size filter straw maintains the optimum flow rate (500ml/min) while maintaining the filtration accuracy.
- ✅Survival Gear for Outdoor Water Needs - If you want to obtain healthy drinking water simply and quickly, you can use this survival gear. The mini and lightweight filtering system are ideal for recreation, hiking, camping. It’s also your good companion for scouting, domestic and international travel, emergency preparedness.
- ✅5-Stage Filtration - Our upgrade 5-Stage Filtration system including coarse filter screen, double layer pp cotton fiber, coconut shell activated carbon and hollow fiber ultrafiltration membranes. which can remove 99.99999% of harmful substances (pollution, odor, chlorine and organic chemicals, etc.) and improve the taste. Ensuring the safest water in the worst environments.
- ✅Portable & Long Life-Span - This straw filtration at only 7.1'' long and 1" in diameter fits any bottle, cup, or glass. It weighs just 2 ounces and fits in the palm of your hand, pocket, gym bag, backpacks, survival packs and purses. Both ends of Upgrade straw filter are removable for cleaning to extend Longer Lifespan ensures it provides up to 5,000 liters (1,320 gallons) of drinking water. You can take it anywhere you want conveniently.
Best Bang For The Buck
Survivor Water Purification System Portable Filter for Backpacking
- Stay clean drink nozzle keeps the mouthpiece clean and sanitary (replaceable with standard plastic water bottle caps)
- Ez-clean Membrane is simple and easy to clean by simply shaking or swishing the filter to clean debris, no backflushing or extra tools required
- 0.1 micron water filter removes harmful organisms like bacteria 99.9999% and protozoa like Giardia & Cryptosporidium 99.9%, surpassing EPA standards
- Collapsible 1.0L hydrapak soft bottle flask packs down small to fit in tight spaces (jacket pockets, purses, backpack, fly vests)
- Filters up to 1, 000 liters of contaminated water without using chemicals or other devices and hydrate quickly and easily with the free flow channels fast flow rate
- Collapsible 0. 6L hydrapak soft bottle flask packs down small to fit in tight spaces (pant or jacket pockets, purses, cycling jerseys, fly vests
- EZ-clean Membrane is simple and easy to clean by simply shaking or swishing the filter to clean debris, no backflushing or extra tools required
- Filters up to 1, 000 liters of contaminated water without using chemicals or other devices and hydrate quickly and easily with the free flow channels fast flow rate
- Stay clean drink nozzle keeps the mouthpiece clean and sanitary (replaceable with standard plastic water bottle Caps)
- 0. 1 micron water filter removes harmful organisms like bacteria 99. 9999% and protozoa like giardia & Cryptosporidium 99. 9%, surpassing EPA standards
- The field cleanable filter protector screen extends the life of the cartridge in challenging conditions
- Activated carbon in the core of the filter improves the taste and reduces chemicals in your drinking water
- Proven protection against bacteria and protozoan cysts down to 0.2 micron with pleated glass-fiber filter media
- Long-time trusted option for backpackers with it's ultra-light 11oz, compact size and compatibility with hydration bladders
- Transparent design allows you to see the filtration working
- Adapter base attaches directly to water bottles or an output hose can be used to fill hydration systems or larger containers
- Adapter base attaches directly to water bottles or an output hose can be used to fill hydration systems or larger containers
- Replaceable carbon core keeps water tasting fresh; reduces chemicals, odors, and toxins throughout the life of the cartridge
- Produces up to two quarts per minute in the faster flow mode and one quart per minute in longer life mode
- A simple turn engages a ceramic pre-filter for long life in dirty water or a pleated glass fiber filter in normal conditions
- 【Long Lifespan & Replaceable 】：No need to worry about replacing filters for up to 1500L/year of continuous usage. Replaceable filters save you money as the water bottles themselves have a very long life. (According to different water quality, the lifespan of the filter would be a little different.)
- 【Ultimate Wilderness Survival Assistant】：This versatile water bottle not only helps providing healthy, drinkable water in harsh outdoor conditions, but will help you to find direction using the built-in compass on the top.
- 💧 【Versatile uses】: The Water Filter Straw can be connected with water bags or water bottles to filter water for drinking. Both ends of it can be disassembled and connected with the water bags and the water bottles to offer you clean drinking water anytime anywhere.
- 💧 【Longer Lifespan with Recyclable Straw】With innovative back-flush design, the inside of the Water Filter Straw can be kept clean at all times and it is recyclable, safe and pollution-free; the Waterdrop Filter straw can provide safe drinking water up to 100,000 gallons，and ensures the maximum water flow rate of up to 700 ml/min to provide more relaxed outdoor water drinking experience.
- 💧 【5-Stage Efficient Filtration】With adoption of premium-quality coconut shell activated carbon, 0.1 um ultrafiltration membrane and other raw materials, the Water Filter Straw can effectively reduce harmful substances like chlorine, particulates, sediment, stones, sand, dirt, bad taste &odor in water to ensure the water safety and deliver better drinking experience.
- 💧 【Professional Combination】Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw with 1.5 gal Gravity-Fed Water Bag is an exclusive water purification combination created for outdoor activities and first aid survival. The large-capacity water bag can hold up to 1.5 Gallons of water at a time, which is about 11 bottles of 500 ml bottled purified water, and can meet the all-day demand for outdoor water drinking.
- 💧 【Multi-scene Application】As a necessity for outdoor water purification, the Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is applicable to hiking, camping, domestic and international travel, emergency preparedness (tornadoes, rainstorms, earthquakes, floods, etc.) to meet the emergency water demand in a variety of situations.
- 💧 【Outdoor water needs】: Fulfill all your outdoor water demands: hiking, camping, domestic and international travel, emergency preparedness (tornadoes, rainstorms, earthquakes, floods, etc.) to meet the emergency water demand in a variety of situations. Each straw only weights 0.19 pounds, and each bag only weights 0.29 pounds.
- 💧 【Versatile uses】: Use with water bags or connect to water bottles to filtrate water for drinking. Both ends of it can be disassembled and connected with water bags and water bottles to offer you clean drinking water anywhere, anytime.
- 💧 【Versatile uses】: Use with water bags or connect to water bottles to filtrate water for drinking. Both ends of it can be disassembled and connected with water bags and water bottles to offer you clean drinking water anywhere, anytime.
- 💧 【Innovative super-wash design】: No need for the extra syringe to backwash. It eliminates cumbersome fittings and saves space, brings you pure water with the greatest convenience and comfort.
What to Look For in a best backpacking filter?
We're sure you've purchased something and afterward regretted it. We are all concerned about the items we purchase. The easiest method to prevent these concerns is to conduct a thorough study before purchasing the best backpacking filter.
That is also why we decided to introduce this post in order to provide you with advice on how to avoid buying errors when selecting the best backpacking filter.
Type Of Backpacking Water Filter
Other filters require active participation-meaning you have to physically filter the water usually by either squeezing or pumping it through the filter.
You should also remember that backpacking water filters can crack if they are exposed to extreme cold temperatures.
Durability And Longevity
The cartridges used by one-piece filters can last between 200 and 500 L without the need for replacement. You may have to replace your entire unit if you use filters that last longer.
They will last forever if you continue charging them or replacing the batteries as needed.
Weight
Although this is not the norm, it tends to make a compromise between speed and weight. Filtration times are generally longer if the filters are smaller or lighter.
Cleanliness Of Water Source
A simple bandana, depending on the condition of your water, can be used as a prefilter.
Filtration Or Purification Speed
Purifying water with chemicals like chlorine and iodine can take as long as 4 hours, while some filters are quick and easy. You should be on a backpacking trip of any length, no matter how short or long.
Purification Vs. Filtration
While purification kills viruses, filtration eliminates bacteria, protozoa and sediment.
In the USA, bacteria in drinking water is an issue. International travel is safer because of waterborne viruses.
The water is also more enjoyable to drink if it's filtered.
FAQs
What's The Difference Between Filtration And Purification?
Most filters use either a pump or a tube to filter the water. To combat viruses, purifiers combine a chamber or tube with activated carbon and another chemical component.
Each of these options protects against bacteria or protozoa. Many also provide protection against toxins, chemicals and viruses. Based on your budget and preferences, we recommend that you choose the best one.
Do I Need To Boil My Water If I’m Using A Backpacking Water Filter?
It is a common practice to boil water in backcountry areas. This is because backpacking water filters don't remove viruses and chemical treatments aren't effective in neutralizing protozoa such as giardia or cryptosporidium. Boiling water does the trick. Boiling water can be time-consuming and may require extra fuel, or even a backpacking stove, if you don't have any options. A lightweight filter can be useful in case your fuel supplies run dry.
What Is The Best Way To Purify Water When Backpacking?
It is best to find clean water sources when backpacking to purify your water. Clear, flowing water is what you want -- anywhere between a running stream and a babbling creek.
Avoid areas with stagnant ponds and runoff from livestock or urban areas. or debris. Also, you will need to locate a secure place where gravity filters can be refilled, pumped, and hung.
Some filtering options, such as chemical filters or tablets, require you to wait longer for water to be clean.
How To Maintain Your Water Filter?
It is important to maintain your filter on the trail and at home. Backflushing is a common cleaning method for hollow fiber filters. This involves running filtered water in reverse through a filter that pushes larger particles out of the cartridge back to its source. When filtering water that is sediment-filled, backflushing can be especially useful. Backflushing ceramic filters is also beneficial. However, they can still be used to clean any blockages manually without risk. Avoid freezing your filter by not flushing it regularly. Remove the cartridge from the tank and store in your sleeping bag or chest pocket to prevent water from freezing, causing damage.
To kill any bacteria, wash any other tubes and reservoirs with soap. Then, flush the cartridge with one capful of bleach and one quart of water. Rinse the cartridge with warm water, and dry it completely.
How Long Does A Backpacking Water Filter Last?
The filter type determines the filter's life expectancy. Hollow fiber and activated charcoal cartridges need to be changed every few hundred times or after filtering has been completed. While some filters may last years, others will need to be replaced once they are worn out.
Some filters and purifiers only require new batteries, or they can be recharged.
Can Viruses Be Filtered Out Of Water?
Yes! Yes! Purifiers were designed to protect and filter everything that you might encounter in the backcountry, or in developing countries.
You can protect your filter and purifier against any microorganisms or bacteria as long as you follow the directions.
Conclusion
Finally, the best backpacking filter may be readily used and offers a range of options to meet your needs. When looking for another kind of best backpacking filter, which we recommend Katadyn Gravity BeFree 3.0L Water Filter, Fast Flow Personal Group, all of these characteristics are significant.
We've combed through all of this data in order to assist you in making the best decision possible. Let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you discover the best backpacking filter in the comments section below!
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About Sara Ryan
