When backpacking, clean drinking water is essential for staying healthy. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to find a reliable source of safe drinking water in the wilderness.
This makes it important to know how to treat water before consuming it. Outdoor experts recommend several different methods for treating drinking water while backpacking.
Boiling Water
Boiling is one of the most effective and widely-used methods of treating water while backpacking. To effectively treat your water, bring it to a rolling boil for at least one minute, then let it cool before drinking. Boiling will kill all microorganisms in the water and make it safe to drink.
Chemical Treatment
Chemical treatment is another popular method of treating drinking water while backpacking. There are a variety of chemical treatments available, such as iodine tablets and chlorine dioxide drops.
These treatments should be used according to the directions on the package and allowed enough time for the chemicals to work (usually about 30 minutes). Chemical treatments can be effective at killing most microorganisms in the water.
Water Filters
Water filters are another great way to treat drinking water while backpacking. These filters remove harmful bacteria and protozoa from your drinking water without altering its taste or smell.
Filters come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that meets your needs. Water filters are fast and easy to use and provide safe, clean drinking water.
Conclusion
When backpacking, having access to clean drinking water is essential for staying healthy. Outdoor experts recommend boiling, chemical treatment, or using a filter as the best ways to treat drinking water when out in the wilderness. By following these tips, you can ensure that your drinking water is safe and free from harmful microorganisms.