Do You Need a Water Purifier Backpacking?

By Alice Nichols

When backpacking, having a water purifier can be a lifesaver. Not only can it provide you with clean drinking water, but it can also help keep you safe while out on the trail. But, do you really need one?

The answer to this question depends largely on where you’re going and what kind of water sources you’ll be using. If you’re traveling to an area with plenty of clean and accessible water sources, then you might not need to worry about bringing a purifier. However, if the area is known for its poor-quality water or if there are limited options for obtaining uncontaminated water, then a purifier is essential.

In addition to being able to provide safe drinking water in areas with poor-quality tap or river water, having a purifier can also be beneficial in areas that are prone to flash flooding or other natural disasters. In these cases, the quality of the available water can quickly become contaminated, making it unsafe for drinking.

A good quality purifier will be able to remove bacteria and other contaminants from the water so that it’s safe for drinking. There are several types of purifiers available on the market today ranging from gravity filters to ultraviolet light filters. Depending on your needs and budget, there’s likely a purifier out there that will meet your needs.

Conclusion

Whether or not you need a water purifier when backpacking depends on where you’re going and what kind of access to clean drinking water sources you have. If there is limited access or if the quality of the available sources is questionable, then having a good quality purifier can ensure that your drinking water is safe and free of contaminants.