When backpacking, having access to clean, safe water is essential. The best type of filter for backpacking is one that is light, durable and effective at removing harmful contaminants.
There are several different types of water filters available on the market today that can provide hikers with clean drinking water during their trips.
Pump Filters – Pump filters are one of the most popular types of filters for backpacking, as they are generally lightweight and effective at removing microbes such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. These filters typically use a hand pump to pressurize the water and force it through a filter cartridge that removes the contaminants. Pump filters come in a variety of sizes and can be used to filter large amounts of water quickly.
Gravity Filters – Gravity filters are similar to pump filters, but they rely on gravity rather than a hand pump to pressurize the water. These filters typically consist of a large reservoir bag with a filter attached at the end.
Water is poured into the reservoir bag and allowed to filter through the attached filter element into a separate collection container below. Gravity filters are great for filtering large amounts of water quickly without having to exert any effort.
Straw Filters – Straw filters are one of the lightest and most compact types of filters available on the market today. These devices allow users to simply sip directly from any body of water through an attached straw-like device containing a filter element which removes harmful contaminants before they enter your body. While straw filters are incredibly lightweight and easy to use, they can be slow and inefficient when it comes to filtering large amounts of water.
Chemical Treatments – Chemical treatments such as iodine tablets or chlorine dioxide drops are an alternative way of purifying drinking water while backpacking. These treatments can effectively remove harmful microorganisms from drinking water in minutes, but they do not remove sediment or other particles that may be present in the water. Additionally, some people may have adverse reactions when consuming chemically treated water.
Conclusion:
When it comes to finding the best type of filter for backpacking, there is no single answer as different types have their own advantages and disadvantages depending on your needs. Pump or gravity filters are great for quickly filtering large amounts of water while straws or chemical treatments may be better suited for shorter trips with less need for larger volumes of purified drinking water. Ultimately, it’s up to you as an individual hiker to determine which type will work best for you based on your specific needs and preferences when out in nature!