Best Camping Water Filters for Safe and Clean Drinking Water

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Camping is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with nature. However, staying hydrated while camping can be a challenge, especially if you are in an area without access to clean water. This is where a camping water filter comes in handy.

A camping water filter is a portable device that removes impurities from water, making it safe to drink. It’s an essential tool for hikers, backpackers, and campers who want to stay hydrated without carrying heavy water bottles. There are various types of camping water filters available, including straw filters, pump filters, gravity filters, and bottle filters.

When choosing the best camping water filter, there are several factors to consider. The type of filter, its weight, size, and filtration capacity are essential elements to keep in mind. You want a filter that is lightweight, easy to carry, and can filter enough water to meet your needs.

After researching and testing some of the best camping water filters, we have identified the top products that provide the best filtration, portability, and ease of use. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each of these filters and help you choose the best one for your camping needs.

Best Camping Water Filters

If you’re planning a camping trip, it’s important to have access to clean drinking water. While boiling is an option, it’s not always practical or convenient. That’s where camping water filters come in.

These handy devices allow you to filter water from streams, lakes, and other sources so that it’s safe to drink. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best camping water filters on the market. Whether you’re a solo backpacker or camping with a group, you’re sure to find a filter that meets your needs.

Platypus GravityWorks Group Camping Water Filter System, 4-Liter

If you’re looking for a high-capacity, gravity-fed water filter system for group and family camping, outdoor adventures, and emergency preparedness, the Platypus GravityWorks 4.0 Liter High-Capacity Water Filtration System is a great choice.

Pros

• No pumping required; easy to use almost anywhere
• Meets all EPA/NSF guidelines for removal of 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa, including giardia, cryptosporidium, E. coli, salmonella, cholera
• High-capacity, gravity-fed, hollow-fiber water filter system is ideal for group and family camping, outdoor adventures, and emergency preparedness

Cons

• Expensive
• Needs to be backflushed constantly
• Constantly unplugging hoses to use

The Platypus GravityWorks 4.0 Liter High-Capacity Water Filtration System is a great system that is easy to use almost anywhere. Simply scoop water from a lake, river, stream, or other contaminated water source into the 4.0-liter dirty water reservoir, and suspend above the 4.0-liter clean water reservoir.

Water flows through the walls of the bundled fibers at a rate of 1.75 liters/minute, leaving impurities behind, and filling the 4.0-liter clean water reservoir in just 2.5 minutes.

The replaceable hollow-fiber microfilter cartridge filters up to 1,500 gallons of water, and meets all EPA and NSF guidelines for removal of 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa, including Giardia, Cryptosporidium, E. coli, Salmonella, and Cholera. It’s also easy to maintain in the field, backflushing in just four seconds to clean and restore performance.

The complete kit is compact, packing down to the size of a one-liter water bottle, and weighs just 11.5 ounces. It includes a 4-liter dirty water reservoir, 4-liter clean water reservoir, hollow-fiber microfilter, hoses, shutoff clamp, and storage sack.

If you’re looking for a high-capacity, gravity-fed water filter system for group and family camping, outdoor adventures, and emergency preparedness, the Platypus GravityWorks 4.0 Liter High-Capacity Water Filtration System is a great choice. It is easy to use, meets all EPA/NSF guidelines, and has a high-capacity filter that is ideal for groups.

Survivor Filter Pro Water Purification System

If you’re looking for a reliable and lightweight water filter for camping and hiking, the Survivor Filter Pro Water Purification System is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in your backpack
• Fast flow rate of 500ml per minute ensures you won’t have to wait long for clean water
• USA tested to remove 99.999% of viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, as well as reduce heavy metals according to NSF/ANSI standards

Cons

• May require more effort to pump than other filters
• Some users have reported the hoses and connections can be prone to leaking
• Replacement filters can be expensive

This filter is a great option for those who need a reliable water source while camping or hiking. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to pack in your backpack and take with you on the go. The fast flow rate ensures you won’t have to wait long for clean water, and the USA tested filtration system gives you peace of mind that you’re drinking safe water.

One potential downside is that the filter may require more effort to pump than other filters, which could be a concern for some users. Additionally, some users have reported issues with leaking hoses and connections, although this seems to be a relatively rare problem.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and effective water filter for camping and hiking, the Survivor Filter Pro Water Purification System is definitely worth considering. Just be aware that replacement filters can be expensive, so you may need to factor that into your budget.

Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw

If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient camping water filter, the Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is a great option.

Pros

• The 5-stage efficient filtration system guarantees clean and safe drinking water by reducing harmful substances and bad taste and odor.
• The professional combination of the Water Filter Straw with the 1.5 gal Gravity-Fed Water Bag is perfect for outdoor activities and first aid survival, providing you with enough water for all-day drinking.
• With a longer lifespan of up to 1,400 gallons and a maximum water flow rate of 700 ml/min, the Waterdrop Filter straw is both recyclable and pollution-free, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.

Cons

• The drainage valve needs to be turned on first when using the gravity bag to filter water to avoid no water flow in a vacuum state.
• The filter may be on the slower side, but it’s worth it for the clean and safe drinking water.
• The price may be a bit higher than other camping water filters, but the quality and efficiency make it worth the investment.

The Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is a versatile and reliable option for outdoor water purification. It can be connected with water bags or water bottles to filter water for drinking, and both ends of it can be disassembled and connected with the water bags and the water bottles to offer you clean drinking water anytime, anywhere.

The innovative backwash purifier function ensures that the inside of the Water Filter Straw is always clean, making it safe and pollution-free. The Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is applicable to hiking, camping, domestic and international travel, emergency preparedness, and more, making it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

If you’re looking for a camping water filter that guarantees clean and safe drinking water, the Waterdrop Gravity Water Filter Straw is definitely worth considering. Its professional combination, longer lifespan, and sustainable design make it a top choice for outdoor activities and first aid survival.

Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System

If you’re looking for a reliable and portable water filter for your outdoor adventures or emergency preparedness, the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable, perfect for backpacking and camping
• Removes harmful bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment, and 100% of microplastics
• Comes with two reusable 32-oz, BPA-free collapsible pouches and a drinking straw

Cons

• May require frequent backflushing to maintain filter performance
• Squeeze pouches may not be as durable as other water containers
• Flow rate may slow down over time if not maintained properly

The Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System is a high-performance water filter that can remove harmful bacteria and protozoa from any freshwater source. Its 0.1 micron absolute filtration ensures that you can drink clean water even in the backcountry or during emergencies.

One of the best things about this water filter is its portability. It weighs just 2 ounces and can fit in the palm of your hand, making it easy to pack in your backpack or emergency kit. The included collapsible pouches are also lightweight and compact, and they can be rolled up tightly for easy packing.

Another great feature of this water filter is its versatility. You can drink directly from the filter or use the included drinking straw to spray water into your mouth or water bottle. The filter also fits standard water bottles with 28 mm threads, making it easy to use with your existing gear.

However, there are some potential downsides to consider. The filter may require frequent backflushing to maintain its performance, especially if you’re using it in murky water. The squeeze pouches may not be as durable as other water containers, so you may need to be careful when handling them. Finally, the flow rate may slow down over time if the filter is not maintained properly.

Overall, the Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System is a reliable and portable water filter that can provide you with clean drinking water wherever you go. Whether you’re backpacking, camping, or preparing for emergencies, this filter is a great investment that can help keep you hydrated and healthy.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filter for your next camping or hiking trip, the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a great choice.

Pros

• Removes bacteria and parasites, including E. coli and Giardia
• Removes microplastics and reduces turbidity
• Long lifetime of up to 1,000 gallons of clean water

Cons

• Requires some suction to use, which can be tiring
• Does not remove viruses
• May not be suitable for filtering large amounts of water

This lightweight and portable water filter is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want to drink clean and safe water from any freshwater source. With its microfiltration membrane, the LifeStraw can remove 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.999% of waterborne parasites, including Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

The LifeStraw can also remove microplastics found in the environment, down to 1 micron, and reduce turbidity down to 0.2 microns. All claims are verified with laboratories using standard testing protocols set by the US EPA, NSF, and ASTM for water purifiers.

One of the best things about the LifeStraw is its long lifetime. The microbiological filter can provide up to 1,000 gallons of clean and safe drinking water with proper use and maintenance, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice.

However, using the LifeStraw does require some suction, which can be tiring for some users. Additionally, the LifeStraw does not remove viruses, so it may not be suitable for filtering water in areas where viruses are a concern. Finally, the LifeStraw may not be the best choice for filtering large amounts of water, as it can take some time to filter each sip.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use water filter for your next outdoor adventure, the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a great choice.

Katadyn Hiker Pro Transparent Water Filter

If you are looking for a reliable and lightweight water filter for your camping or backpacking trips, the Katadyn Hiker Pro Transparent Water Filter is a great option.

Pros

• The pleated glass-fiber filter media provides proven protection against bacteria and protozoan cysts down to 0.2 micron.
• The activated carbon in the core of the filter improves the taste and reduces chemicals in your drinking water.
• The field cleanable filter protector screen extends the life of the cartridge in challenging conditions.

Cons

• The pump-action can be tiring after extended use.
• The hoses can be a bit cumbersome to set up and pack away.
• The filter may clog more easily in very turbid water.

This filter is compact and lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry with you on your camping or backpacking trips. The transparent design allows you to see the filtration working, which is a nice feature.

The pump-action can be a bit tiring after extended use, but it is still relatively easy to use and provides clean drinking water quickly. The hoses can be a bit cumbersome to set up and pack away, but they are durable and well-made.

The Katadyn Hiker Pro Transparent Water Filter is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and lightweight water filter for their camping or backpacking trips. It provides clean drinking water quickly and efficiently, and the pleated glass-fiber filter media provides proven protection against bacteria and protozoan cysts down to 0.2 micron.

Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System

If you’re looking for a lightweight and versatile camping water filter, the Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System might be a great choice.

Pros

• The Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on camping trips or hikes.
• The filter removes 99.99999% of all bacteria and 99.9999% of all protozoa, ensuring you have clean drinking water on the go.
• You can attach the filter to a drinking pouch, standard disposable water bottles, hydration packs, or use the straw to drink directly from your water source.

Cons

• The filter is rated up to 100,000 gallons, but you’ll need to replace it if you suspect it has been frozen.
• The white ‘garden hose’ style washer can be difficult to seal.
• Some users have reported that the filter can clog easily.

The Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable way to filter water on the go. The filter is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you on camping trips or hikes. Plus, it removes 99.99999% of all bacteria and 99.9999% of all protozoa, ensuring you have clean drinking water wherever you go.

One of the best things about this filter is that it’s versatile. You can attach it to a drinking pouch, standard disposable water bottles, hydration packs, or use the straw to drink directly from your water source. This makes it easy to use in a variety of situations.

However, there are some downsides to the Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System. The filter is rated up to 100,000 gallons, but you’ll need to replace it if you suspect it has been frozen. Additionally, some users have reported that the white ‘garden hose’ style washer can be difficult to seal, and the filter can clog easily.

Overall, the Sawyer Products SP128 Mini Water Filtration System is a solid choice for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile camping water filter. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.

Buying Guide for the Best Camping Water Filters

When it comes to selecting the best camping water filters, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind as you shop:

Filter Type

There are several types of filters available, including pump filters, gravity filters, and straw filters. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Filtration Capacity

Consider how much water you need to filter and how often you’ll be using the filter. Some filters are designed for individual use, while others are better suited for groups of people.

Filtration Speed

If you’re in a hurry, you’ll want a filter that can produce clean water quickly. Some filters can filter water in just a few seconds, while others may take several minutes.

Filter Lifespan

Make sure to check the filter’s lifespan before making a purchase. Some filters need to be replaced after just a few uses, while others can last for hundreds of gallons.

Size and Weight

If you’re backpacking or hiking, you’ll want a filter that’s lightweight and easy to pack. However, if you’re car camping, size and weight may not be as much of a concern.

Additional Features

Some filters come with additional features like a built-in water bottle or a pre-filter to remove larger particles. Consider which features are most important to you before making a purchase.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best camping water filter for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good portable water purifiers for camping?

There are several good portable water purifiers for camping, including the Sawyer Water Filter, the LifeStraw, and the Katadyn Hiker Pro. These filters are lightweight, easy to use, and effective at removing bacteria and other contaminants from water sources.

How does the Katadyn Water Filter compare to other camping water filters?

The Katadyn Water Filter is one of the most popular camping filters on the market. It is known for its durability, ease of use, and effectiveness at removing bacteria and other contaminants from water sources. While it may be more expensive than some other filters, it is often considered to be a worthwhile investment for serious campers and hikers.

What should I look for in a backpacking water purifier?

When choosing a backpacking water purifier, it is important to consider factors such as weight, ease of use, and effectiveness at removing contaminants from water sources. Look for a filter that is lightweight and easy to carry, but also effective at removing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances from water.

Is the Sawyer Water Filter a good choice for camping?

The Sawyer Water Filter is a popular choice for camping and backpacking. It is lightweight, easy to use, and effective at removing bacteria and other contaminants from water sources. While it may not be as durable as some other filters, it is often considered to be a good choice for those who are looking for a budget-friendly option.

What are some of the best outdoor water filters?

Some of the best outdoor filters include the Katadyn Hiker Pro, the MSR Guardian, and the Platypus GravityWorks. These filters are known for their durability, effectiveness, and ease of use, and are often recommended by experienced campers and hikers.

Do I need a water filter when camping?

Yes, it is important to use a filter when camping to ensure that you have access to clean and safe drinking water. Even if you are camping in an area with a natural water source, such as a stream or river, there may be bacteria or other contaminants in the water that can make you sick. Using a water filter can help to remove these harmful substances and keep you healthy during your camping trip.