How Do You Clean Backpacking Water?

By Anna Duncan

Cleaning backpacking water is an essential part of any outdoor adventure. It’s important to clean your drinking water while camping and backpacking, as it can contain harmful bacteria and pollutants.

Thankfully, there are a variety of methods you can use to make sure your water is clean and safe for consumption.

Boiling: Boiling is the most reliable method for killing parasites, viruses, and bacteria in water. Bring your water to a rolling boil for at least one minute to kill any microorganisms that may be present. Boiling can also remove some chemical contaminants and odors from the water.

Chemical Treatment: Chemical treatment is an effective method for killing microorganisms in water. Common chemical treatments include iodine tablets and chlorine dioxide drops.

These chemicals are added directly to the water, and they work by killing pathogens on contact. The exact amount of time required will vary depending on the chemical used.

Filtration: Water filters are designed to block out harmful particles like bacteria, protozoa, sediment, and other contaminants from your drinking water. Filters come in a variety of sizes and types, so you can choose one that meets your needs.

Ultraviolet Light: Ultraviolet light is another great way to purify backpacking water. UV light destroys microorganisms like bacteria and viruses by disrupting their DNA structure. There are portable UV light systems available that fit easily in a backpack or pocket.

Conclusion

Cleaning backpacking water is essential for staying safe while outdoors. Boiling, chemical treatment, filtration, and ultraviolet light are all effective methods for making sure your drinking water is free of harmful microorganisms.