The human body consists of 70 % water. Water is an essential part of our everyday life and how much water you need in a day depends on the conditions like temperature, altitude, humidity and the amount of physical activity one does during the day. On average, men need almost 3 liters water and women need 2.2 liters water a day. And if you’re hiking through the mountains this percentage can increase by 50.
There is water available mostly when you’re backpacking or hiking in forms of lakes, streams, snow runoffs etc., but the water contains lots of contaminates in forms of microscopic parasites and bacteria’s. To avoid all this you need best water filter treatment to clean the water of all contaminates and make it drinkable.
Carrying a water filter is a smarter option than carrying all the water it’ll be a lot less weight otherwise you’d need to carry around. There seems to be a different kind of options of available water filters in the market.
We are going to delve into some of the best backpacking water filters and give you all of the information that you need to know in order to make an informed purchase. Read on for features and reviews of backpacking water filters!
| Product Name | Weight | Dimensions | Water Filtered | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LifeStraw Mission | 12.9 oz | 4 x 5 x 12 in | 18k liters / lifetime | Check price on Amazon |
| MSR MiniWorks | 16.1 oz | 12 x 9 x 6 in | 1 liter per minute | Check price on Amazon |
| KATADYN MP1 | N/A | N/A | 1 liter per 30 minutes | Check price on Amazon |
| Katadyn Vario | 15 oz | 10 x 10 x 4 in | 1.8 liters per minute | Check price on Amazon |
| MSR SweetWater | 11 oz | 12 x 9 x 6 in | 1.25 liters per minute | Check price on Amazon |
| Sawyer Complete | 32 oz | 9.8 x 3.5 x 14.5 in | 4 liters per 10 minutes | Check price on Amazon |
| MSR Guardian | 35 oz | 13 x 9 x 6 in | 10000 liters / lifetime | Check price on Amazon |
| Sawyer Products Mini | 32 oz | 8 x 3.5 x 3 in | 378541 liters / lifetime | Check price on Amazon |
| Platypus GravityWorks | 10.75 oz | 5.8 x 2.8 x 13.2 in | 4 liters in 2.5 minutes | Check price on Amazon |
Features to Consider
Before making any decision there are a few things that you need to take a look at. Here is the list of few important things.
Weight
Everyone knows that why weight is an important factor while choosing a product for backpacking. You have to carry the water filter with you so need to choose a product that weighs less. Backpacking is more pleasant if there is less weight in your backpack. You need to consider that you’ll be carrying other necessary things with you too. Mostly lightest weight water filters are chemical treatments or tablets that take almost no space.
Another thing that you should know is that once you have used a filter on the ground, it’ll get heavier and to remove the traces of the water out the filter gets hard too.
So in order to avoid this, you need to use the filter overnight to remove all the water out.
Speed
Speed is a really important factor in a water filter if you don’t want to get into some serious trouble during your backpacking trip. On most backpacking trips, water source can be six miles away, that’s enough of a reason to buy a water filter that cleans water immediately. Straw filters and gravity filters are known to work quicker.
Performance/Reliability
If you’re going to a place where the chance of water source being contaminated by viruses is high, then you need a water filter that eliminates viruses too. Here are a few systems that are known to remove viruses effectively:
- Iodine treatment
- Latest Gravity filters
- UV light treatment systems
- Chlorine dioxide
Most of the other water filters can eliminate bacteria and protozoa. Virus shield is usually required for international trips.
Reliability is another factor that shows how much you can depend on your product when you’re hiking your way through the mountains. Whether you are going to need a backup system or not. You can evaluate the reliability by the maintenance required and how easy or difficult it is.
Convenience
If the water filter is easy to use that means you will save the time and the energy. If the maintenance method is complex it can take much of your time too. Chemical treatment usually doesn’t require any maintenance, which means less waiting time and it’s convenient to use.
In latest water system’s convenience and less or no maintenance is trending.
Capacity
You need to consider the capacity of the water filter if you plan on going with a group of people or in the case of long trips. Capacity is basically how much water can be treated through the water filter.
Pump filters are known for filtering never-ending amount of water. Chemical treatment is expensive, but it is mostly effective for individual use.
Taste
Though the taste is not such an important factor while choosing a water filter, but there is an obvious difference between these water treatments. Chemical systems change the flavor of the water a little. Iodine is known for awful tasting but that can be avoided by using taste-neutralizing tablets. Chlorine dioxide gives a pool like taste.
Cost
Chemical and tablet treatments are usually expensive. Gravity water filter treatment and pump water filters are cost effective mostly. If you are going with a group then pump water filter is cost effective for you.
Here are a few types of water filter system that you must know about.
- Filter straws: In this kind of water filter, you have to drink water directly through the straw as the name ‘Filter Straws’ indicates that doubles as a hollow fiber filter.
- Pump Filters: Pump Filters are quite famous and are basically what people think first of a filter this comes to their mind. In this system, the filter in the device has a small pore through which the microorganisms are filtered by pumping the water through it.
- Gravity Filters: In Gravity filters the water is pushed through the filter by using the force of gravity. It saves you the time and trouble of the pumping process.
- UV light: This system uses Ultraviolet light to cleanse water, the mechanical device works more efficiently than other because it kills viruses too. Though these products work on charging batteries or chargers.
- Tablets and Chemicals: In this treatment, chemicals or tablets are added to the water to kill the bacteria and other microorganisms. This product also has the advantage of killing viruses as well.
Top Product Reviews
There are a variety of products available in the market these days. Here are the reviews on the best products that you must check out.
Lifestraw Mission 
Price: Approx. $125
Weight: 0.81 pounds
Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 12 inches
Specific features: High capacity, ideal for group camping, removes all bacteria and viruses, easy maintenance and use
Best use: Car camping, boating, backpacking
Description: The producer claims that LiveStraw Mission Water Purification System can eliminate 99.99 % of all protozoa, bacteria, and viruses which pollute water. It’s a gravity powered water purifier, which requires no batteries or chemicals to work.
This is one of the best portable water filters that can clean 9 to 12 liters in an hour and will purify 18000 liters over its lifetime. Because of its large capacity, this product is perfect for a group. It is simple to use, you just need to fill the reservoir with the cleanest water available, then fold the top to cover and hand the device with a strong support. Using the force of gravity the water will move through the ultra filtration membrane of the purifier.
All the contaminates are trapped and the clean water is available in the .02 micron pores in the walls of the hollow fiber. The product has a shoulder strap to carry it conveniently. The product comes with a drawstring stuff bag to store it and carry it in the backpack. Four extra pre-filter screens come with the product for on spot maintenance. The price is fairly priced between $119 and $148.
PROS:
- Comes in 5 and 12 L
- Compact reservoir
- No chemicals
CONS:
- Can leak over time
- Length makes it harder to pack
Related: While in the wilderness, it is important to have clean water, and it is important to have a way to start a fire. The Survival Spark Magnesium Fire Starter with compass and whistle will last up to 15,000 strikes!
MSR MINIWORKS 
Price: Approx. $90
Weight: 1.01 pounds
Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 6
Specific features: Fast flow, reliable, field maintainable, tastes better
Best use: Hiking, camping
Description: The MSR MiniWorks Microfilter is made from durable carbon and ceramic elements which guarantee tasteless water even when you are using it frequently. The price of this product is between about $90 depending on where you buy.
This product has an innovative air spring accumulator, which makes it capable of pumping one liter water per minute. It can clean completely with no tools required for full filter recovery. This micro filter is effective against protozoa, bacteria, and chemicals that may contaminate the water. It doesn’t eliminate virus contaminates, though.
The product comes with water bottle adapter. It’s compact in size and lightweight and has a limited lifetime warranty. The carbon core of this filter eliminates unpleasant smell and taste produced by organic compounds, for example, iodine, pesticide, chlorine. At only a pound, you will be able to carry this with ease. It will get rid of 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa, so you will not get sick from drinking dirty water.
PROS:
- Weighs 1 lb
- Gets rid of almost all bacteria and protozoa
- Carbon core gets rid of bad taste and odor
CONS:
- Pressure can build up in the filter chamber
- O Ring can get damaged
Related: You can get a new ceramic filter by MSR, the MSR B071RB Ceramic Element that can be cleaned several times, and has a lifetime warranty.
Katadyn Mp1 
Price: Approx. $10
Weight: 1 lb box
Dimensions: 12 x 2 x 2 in
Specific features: Ultra light, easy to use, pleasant taste, chlorine dioxide tablets
Best use: Hiking, backpacking, camping
Description: KATADYN MP1 Tablets are ultra light and gives fresh and clean water wherever you are. These tablets effectively remove all bacteria, viruses, giardia, cryptosporidium. Each tablet treats 1-liter water, you can take 20 or 30 tablets with you.
This product provides you fresh water with no unpleasant taste or smell. This product also meets EPA microbiological water purifier test standards. It uses chlorine dioxide to purify the water. The product is reasonably priced between $8 and $25, which makes it cost effective.
This product is really easy to use, easy to carry, so it’s perfect for backpacking and hiking trips. It cleans the water quickly so you don’t need to wait for the time-consuming process. The simple one-step procedure makes this convenient product. The tablets can be put right in your backpack so you do not have to worry about any extra weight. You also do not have to worry about any odor or taste as the tablets will take any unpleasant feature away.
PROS:
- Effective against viruses
- No mixing
- No measuring
CONS:
- Must be stored in a cool area
- Hard to open package
Related: If you are unsure about using a filter or tablets, you can check out the Nas-co N-B01449WA Bags which are leak proof and can be frozen.
Katadyn Vario 
Price: Approx. $80
Weight: 15 оz
Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 4 inches
Specific features: Two best technologies, ceramic and pleated ultra microfiltration, glass fiber filter
Best use: Camping, hiking
Description: Katadyn Vario Water Filter offers dual technology filters combining personal efficiency with the easiest possible handling.
This product has three level filter a high-performance glass fiber filter, a ceramic pre filter which can be adjusted personally according to the cloudiness in climate, and active charcoal to remove the smell.
The ceramic disk is cleanable and it prolongs the life of the primary micro filter. The .02 microns high surface are pleated, fiberglass filter eliminates all microorganisms. This filter uses a replaceable carbon core to decrease pesticides, chemicals, and unpleasant taste.
The product comes with a 1-year warranty, a pre filter, cleaning pad, and deluxe carry bag. This water filter can purify 2liter per minute with fast flow. The product is cost effective with the price of about $80. Uses like this product because of the dual pumping modes, the ease of transport, and the price. Plus, it has a glass fiber filter.
PROS:
- Great for backpacking and camping
- 2 quarts per minute
CONS:
- May clog
- Flow path is flawed
Related: Eventually, you will need to replace the filter. The Katadyn B000O0 Replacement Carbon is a replacement that you can use for this model.
Msr Sweetwater 
Price: Approx. $90
Weight: 11 oz
Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 6 inches
Specific features: Lightweight, activated carbon core, lever-action pump handle
Best use: Hiking, camping, backpacking
Description: MSR SweetWater Microfilter is available in Gray and Red color. Its unique lever pumping handle gives you 4 to 1 mechanical advantage. The handle of the filter folds flat when the filter is not being used to store and pack easily.
The product removes 99.99% of waterborne bacteria and protozoan microorganisms for example giardia and cryptosporidium. The price of this product is somewhere around $90, which depends on where you buy it from.
The activated carbon core in the filter helps in removing the foul smell and taste. It weighs less than a pound so it’s perfect for backpacking use. It has the capacity to purify 1.25 liters of water in one minute.
Not only does it meet NSF protocol for removing unwanted germs and dirt, but it tastes fresh and is easy to pack down and store. The handle will fold down so you can store it simply. Users like this micro filter because it works well, really does remove odors and bad taste, and is easy to carry with them.
PROS:
- Removes nearly all of protozoa and bacteria
- Light weight and easy to store
- No taste or odor
CONS:
- Does not pump high volume
Related: If you are worried about your water, you can use Aquamira B016DS Water Treatment Drops as they treat up to 30 gallons and have a 4 year shelf life.
SAWYER COMPLETE 
Price: Approx. $180
Weight: 2 pounds
Dimensions: 9.8 x 3.5 x 14.5 inches
Specific features: Light weight, made of abs plastic, dual bag, .02 micron water purifier, 4 liters capacity
Best use: Hiking, camping, fishing
Description: The Sawyers Complete Bag Water Purifier is portable which means you can take it wherever you want. This purifier claims to remove 99.99% of bacteria, viruses and protozoa/cysts. This water purifier can effortlessly clean 4 liters of water in only 10 minutes.
It is a gravity system so you don’t have to worry about pumping. It’s really easy to use you just need to fill up the gray reservoir with the unclean water, then attach the filter and tube to the clean blue reservoir and let gravity do its work.
When the blue reservoir gets full with clean water, then you can hang it by its handle and fill your water bottles, pots, and containers. The purifier is made of ultra lightweight food grade ABC plastic which makes it easy to maintain on the ground.
The product has 0.02 microns absolute inline water purifier to remove all the bacteria efficiently. The product is priced somewhere around $90, depending on where you buy. The producers offer a lifetime limited warranty.
PROS:
- Gravity system
- Easy to use
- Lifetime limited warranty
CONS:
- Hard to get flow at the start
- No replacement parts if damaged
Related: If you are outdoors, you may get cold, so you should have a warm blanket to get under. The EKTOS B01FBD7 Blanket is made of wool, is warm and large in size.
Msr Guardian 
Price: Approx. $350
Weight: 2.19 pounds
Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 6 inches
Specific features: Ultimate protection, fast and easy, long lasting, self-cleaning, extremely durable
Best use: Hiking, camping, backpacking
Description: MSR Guardian Pump is a reliable product for long distance trips. The price of this product is $349. This purifier eliminates viruses, bacteria, protozoa and even sediments from worse case water conditions effectively.
This makes this product useful for emergency situations. It works quickly by purifying 2.5 liters of water in one minute without any batteries or charging. This water purifier needs no back flushing because the pump self-cleans on every stroke.
The product is long lasting lifetime because of the leading edge hollow fiber cartridge that can treat up to 10000-liter water. This product is made to endure heavy use, harsh surrounding and freezing temperature.
Overall, users like this product because it is self cleaning, last a long time, and is very durable. It can go through heavy use and through freezing weather and harsh terrain. Plus, if you drop it under 6 feet, you do not have to worry about damage.
PROS:
- Great for worst case scenarios
- Self cleaning pump
- Durable
CONS:
- Expensive
- Can leak from base O Ring
Related: Eventually you will have to replace the pre filter on this product. The MSR B01ATZ Prefilter Replacement is the replacement for this product and is made in the USA.
Sawyer Mini Water 
Price: Approx. $20
Weight: 2 ounces
Dimensions: 8 x 3.5 x 3 inches
Specific features: Versatile, high performance, personal straw, cleaning plunger
Best use: Camping, travelling, hiking
Description: Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System is perfect for outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, traveling or even emergency situations. The product is ultra light weight and still performs efficiently with its .01 micron absolute hollow fiber membrane inline filter.
The water purifier can be attached to water bottles, drinking pouches, hydration packs also it has a straw from which you can drink directly from your water source. The producer claims that this product can remove 99.99% of all bacterial for example cholera, E.coli, salmonella and protozoa like giardia and cryptosporidium.
The product comes with 16-ounce reusable squeeze pouch, 7 inch drinking straw and a cleaning plunger. The price of the product is somewhere around $20, which depends on where you buy. This filtration system comes in a single, 2 pack, or a 4-pack, in several colors for you to choose from. At such a low price, this product sure works well!
PROS:
- Various sizes and colors
- Low price
- High performance
CONS:
- Hard to drink directly from it
- No cap for the bottle end
Related: If you need adapters for your hydration packs, the Sawyer Products SP115 Adapters for Hydration Packs are compatible with many Sawyer filters and is easy to use.
Platypus Gravityworks 
Price: Approx. $120
Weight: 10.75 оz
Dimensions: 5.8 x 2.8 x 13.2 inches
Specific features: Fast, lightweight, effective, easy maintenance
Best use: Hiking, backpacking, camping
Description: Platypus GravityWorks Filter System, four liters of water in 2.5 minutes quicker. The product is fairly priced around $120. This filter system is ultra lightweight, thus perfect for backpacking.
This water filter back flushes in only 4 seconds without requiring any extra tools or parts. It uses gravity force you no pumping is needed. Platypus Gravity Filter meets all the EPA and NSF guidelines for the elimination of bacteria and other microorganism. It has a zip opening which helps in collecting water easily in all kinds of situations.
The great thing about this filter system is there is no pumping. It can filter 1.75 liters per minute, and it has a filter lifetime to up to 1,500 liters. There is an 8 liter size that is perfect for group camping, backpacking and other activities. Users like this product because of its simplicity and the fact it can filter water quickly!
PROS:
- Works quickly
- Hollow fiber advantage
- No pumping
CONS:
- Holes that hole straps can deteriorate
- Grommets come loose
Related: For a filter cartridge, check out the Platypus B004LA Filter System. It is the replacement for this product and meets EPA guidelines!
Concluding Thoughts
You should always carry a water filter when you’re backpacking or traveling where you don’t have a reliable drinking water source. Contaminated water can prove to be life-threatening if you don’t filter it properly. Choose your water filter carefully and stay safe!
If you had some experience on this topic and would love to share it with us, feel free to leave a comment in our comments section below.
I bought the Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System from Amazon last year because of the raving review it was receiving. I am happy to say that the reviews did not lie. It is small and light, so it is very ideal for my backpacking adventures, and it works perfectly.
Thanks for the valuable input Grace and I’m pleased that the Sawyer has served you well. It’s a fine product and provides the safety you need without the hefty price tag.
MSR’s SweetWater Microfilter looks like something that would fit in with our upcoming camping trip and its price is within my budget too. But before I add it to my shopping list, I need to know if it comes with all the accessories like the brush, stuff sack and bottle adapter.
I think it comes with the bottle adapter as specified by the manufacturers. You might want to get in touch with them to inquire about the brush and stuff sack.