Proper hydration is a key component in enjoying the outdoors safely, but even the most careful and experienced of outdoorsmen can find themselves running short or completely out of water. Even if you are hiking or camping in a place with abundant natural water sources, it can be dangerous to consume any water without proper filtration and purification. Outside of particulates, odors, and funky tastes that might occur in naturally-sourced water, all kinds of bacteria, protozoa, and viruses could be lurking in there, and you won’t see those. Here are just a few portable water purifiers that will ensure you have access to safe, clean drinking water no matter where in the world you may be.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter with 1 Liter Pouch – $42.95
Space and weight are major concerns for backpackers, where every inch and ounce makes a difference, but the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter is just as handy for day hikes, international travel, or emergency situations. The 32 oz pouch and filter roll into a bundle that weighs in at just 3 oz and fits easily into a pocket, making it a valuable portable water purifier. The ardently tested hollow fiber membrane filters are guaranteed to filter out harmful microorganisms, and will last for one million gallons! The filter can be used to drink directly from the pouch, poured from the pouch into another container, or screwed directly onto most standard threaded bottles up to 2 liters. The plastic pouch can be used hundreds of times in the field, and maintenance is as easy as a simple backwash when necessary. Includes 32 oz pouch, water filter, push/pull cap, and cleaning syringe.
SteriPEN Adventurer Opti – $89.95 FREE SHIPPING!
The lightest and smallest of their line, SteriPEN’s Adventurer Opti is a must for any outdoor adventure or international travel. This iteration of the SteriPEN uses a revolutionary optical eye to sense the water, using UV light to kill a host of harmful microorganisms. It has 2 settings (1 liter/.5 liter), and an LED indicator light that lets you know when it’s ready for use, when your water is purified, and when your battery is low. It even doubles as an LED flashlight with the included lamp cover. Simply submerge the lamp and LED light into your water and agitate until the light indicates the purification is complete. You’ll get ~100 uses with disposable batteries, and 40-50 with rechargeable, and a total life span of 8,000 treatments. This SteriPEN does not filter particulates, but the FitsAll Filter will solve that problem in a jiffy. Includes neoprene pouch with belt loop and 2 disposable batteries.
Camelbak All Clear Purifier – $88.99 $80.95 FREE SHIPPING!
The All Clear Purifier from Camelbak also uses UV light to destroy harmful microorganisms, but adds their own twist by making it an all -inclusive package. This UV water purifier simply screws right onto the included BPA-free 25 oz water bottle and produces clean and safe drinking water in just 60 seconds! An LED display counts down from 60, at the end of which a signal lets you know the process is complete. It charges simply with a USB cord, and you’ll get 80 cycles (16 gallons) to every charge. The cap actually insulates the UV bulb for protection from shock and impact, keeping this product safe for years to come. Includes UV purifier cap, zippered nylon pouch with belt loop, water bottle and regular cap, and USB cord. Covered by Camelbak’s Got Your Bak lifetime guarantee.
