How Do You Filter Water When Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an amazing way to explore the outdoors and experience nature. But it also comes with an added responsibility – to stay hydrated.

It is important to have access to clean drinking water, especially when backpacking in remote areas. Fortunately, there are a few ways to filter water while backpacking, ensuring that you always have access to safe and clean drinking water.

Boiling is one of the simplest methods of filtering water while backpacking. Boiling water for at least one minute will kill most bacteria and make it safe for consumption. However, it will not remove any sediment or contaminants that may be present in the water.

Chemical Treatment is another option for filtering water while backpacking. Chemical treatments such as iodine or chlorine dioxide tablets can be added to the water, which will kill harmful bacteria and make the water safe for consumption. This method is quick and easy, but it does not remove any sediment or contaminants from the water.

Gravity Filters are a popular option for filtering water while backpacking. Gravity filters are lightweight, easy to use, and effective in removing bacteria from the water. They work by passing the contaminated water through a filter at a slow rate of flow, allowing gravity to do its job of trapping contaminants in the filter media.

Pump Filters are another popular option for filtering water while backpacking. These filters require pumping action in order to push contaminated water through a filter medium which captures bacteria and other contaminants before they reach your mouth. Pump filters are quick and efficient but they are heavier than gravity filters.

Ultraviolet (UV) Purifiers are an effective way of killing all types of microorganisms in contaminated water without using chemicals or filters. UV purifiers use ultraviolet light to destroy bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present in contaminated water sources.

No matter which method you choose for filtering your drinking when out on a backpacking trip, it is important that you always have access to clean drinking water. By taking some time beforehand to research different methods of filtration, you can ensure that you always have access to safe and clean drinking while out exploring nature.


Conclusion: When backpacking, having access to clean drinking is essential for staying hydrated and healthy in remote areas. There are several ways of filtering your drinking such as boiling, chemical treatment, gravity filters, pump filters and ultraviolet purifiers – each with their own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs. No matter which method you choose for filtering your drinking when out on a backpacking trip – research beforehand so that you can ensure that you always have access to safe and clean drinking while out exploring nature.