What Is the Best Water Purification for Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an increasingly popular way to explore the outdoors and enjoy a more rugged camping experience. While backpacking often requires long-distance hiking, it also requires a different set of supplies than car camping.

One essential item for any backpacking trip is a reliable water purification system. With so many different options on the market, finding the best water purification for backpacking can be difficult.

Types of Water Purification

The two most common types of water purification systems are filtration and chemical treatments. Filtration systems use a filter to remove contaminants from the water, while chemical treatments involve adding chemicals such as chlorine or iodine to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. Both types of purification have their pros and cons, which should be carefully considered when choosing the best system for your needs.

Filtration Systems

Filtration systems are typically more effective at removing bacteria, viruses, and protozoa such as giardia and cryptosporidium from water sources. The most common type of filtration system is a pump-based filter that uses a ceramic or carbon filter to capture contaminants in the water.

These filters are usually rated by their micron rating, which indicates how small of particles they can remove from the water (the lower the number, the finer the particles). However, these filters can become clogged over time with sediment or other particulates, so it’s important to periodically clean them out or replace them when necessary.

Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatments are usually more lightweight than filtration systems and can be easier to use in certain situations where access to clean drinking water is limited. Chemical treatments involve adding chemicals such as chlorine or iodine to kill bacteria and other microorganisms in the water source.

These treatments typically come in liquid or tablet form and are easy to transport in small containers. However, they may take longer to take effect than filtration systems, so it’s important to follow directions carefully when using them.

Conclusion – What Is The Best Water Purification For Backpacking?
The best water purification system for backpacking depends on your specific needs and preferences. Filtration systems are typically more effective at removing bacteria and viruses from water sources but require periodic maintenance such as cleaning out filters or replacing them when necessary.

Chemical treatments are usually more lightweight but may take longer to take effect than filtration systems. Ultimately, it’s important to consider all your options carefully before deciding on a system that best fits your needs for backpacking trips into nature’s wild places!