When backpacking, it’s important to take extra steps to ensure that the water you drink is safe and clean. Drinking contaminated water can easily lead to stomach issues, so treating and filtering your water is necessary for anyone who’s out in the wilderness. Here are some tips on how to treat your water when backpacking.
Boiling
Boiling your water is one of the easiest and most effective ways to clean it. Bring your water to a rolling boil for at least one minute – this will kill any bacteria, viruses, and protozoa that may be present. However, boiling alone won’t get rid of other contaminants such as heavy metals or dissolved solids.
Filtering
Filters are an easy and lightweight way to purify your water on the go. There are several types of filters available – from gravity filters that hang from a tree branch to handheld pump filters that can fit in your pocket. Most filters will remove bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from your water without having to boil it.
Chemical Treatment
Chemical treatments are another easy way to purify your water without having to boil it. Common chemical treatments include chlorine dioxide tablets, iodine tablets, and UV filters. These treatments will kill any bacteria or viruses that may be present in the water but won’t remove other contaminants.
Conclusion:
When backpacking, it’s essential to ensure that the water you drink is safe and clean by treating it properly. Boiling, filtering, or chemically treating your drinking water is an effective way of doing so without having to worry about getting sick due to drinking contaminated water.