The 7 Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2025

Best Overall Filter for Personal Use

LifeStraw Peak Squeeze

Effective Against: Bacteria, protozoa, microplastics | Weight: 3.8 oz

Are you going out for a long trail day in the hills? The LifeStraw Peak Squeeze is a personal-sized model with a high-flow microfilter in a collapsible and very packable soft bottle. The 0.2-micron hollow-core membrane microfilter offers a great solution to shallow water sources. You can simply remove the microfilter from the soft bottle to drink directly from the stream. Or scoop water on the go and then drink straight from the packable bottle. It will filter as you drink, fueled by a soft squeeze and your guzzling force. The soft bottle top is adaptable to other compatible bottles, and the filter can be removed to carry water between sources. In the field, the microfilter and collapsible bottle roll up to the size of your palm and are easily packed inside the pouch of a running vest. While we sometimes have durability complaints with soft bottle systems, tester Trish Matheny said she was pleasantly surprised, noting, “The Peak Squeeze corrects many of the durability complaints I have with other collapsible bottle filters I've used.” When committing to long-distance adventures in the backcountry, this reliable and durable filtration system will not let you down. Another soft bottle option that's even more durable is the Hydrapak Flux 1.5L. It also offers more capacity, which makes for a faster treatment time if speed is a priority.

After testing the Peak Squeeze, we found the only drawback is that regular maintenance is required to reach and maintain an optimal flow rate. This makes sense, given the small size of the microfilter. A syringe assist is necessary to remove extra particles from the hollow fibers. However, our tester reports, “I found that after a few backflushes, the filter quickly returned to the faster flow rate.” We found it simple enough to keep it in top condition. Most want something lightweight, easy to use, and highly effective at producing tasty, clean water. That means we are left with many good things to say about the Peak Squeeze. Its projected lifespan is 2,000 liters, twice that of its closest competitors. It also boasts a durable soft bottle design that resists tears, rips, and punctures, so you can take it on backcountry adventures for years to come. If a zero-maintenance option is more your thing and you are less concerned about silty particles in your water, the Aquamira Water Treatment Drops are a highly portable, budget solution that may be more suitable. On the other hand, a classic handheld filter like the MSR Guardian Purifier delivers a much more thorough clean to your drinking water overall. It is a great option if you want to fill up several water bottles in one sitting.

Read more: LifeStraw Peak Squeeze review

Best Overall Filter for Group Use

Platypus GravityWorks

Effective Against: Particulates, bacteria, protozoa | Weight: 11.5 oz

The Platypus GravityWorks is our favorite gravity-fed backpacking water filter we tested. It is fast, portable, and easy to use. Setup is effortless, and our testers love its 4-liter potable water capacity, finding it useful for solo trips or small groups. The kit comes equipped with two durable 4-liter bags (one “clean,” one "dirty") and a high-flow filter that is compatible with hydration bladders and water bottles. Additionally, the bags can convert to a solar shower or handwashing station to complete your base camp. “I love that I can simply hang this filter up with dirty water, walk away, and enjoy filtered water within minutes,” one of our testers mentions. The effortless aspect is a big draw for many users: no pumping, no squeezing, and hardly any waiting. Thanks to its versatility and ability to make filtering water a breeze, we think its 11.5-ounce weight is worth carrying on most trips. Though when ounces matter most, we'd opt for a lighter model like the Sawyer Squeeze mentioned above. This filter is great, but potential buyers should know it will not treat viruses. If that gives you cause for concern, you may be better off with a model like the MSR Guardian Purifier. Although she admits this is a small detail, Amber King said, “I struggled a bit to close up the zip-top on the bags in cold weather.” Additionally, the hanging attachments don't seem as durable as other models, but we didn't encounter any durability issues during testing, even after several backcountry trips. Like any gravity system that uses an in-line filter, the flow rate will slow down when exposed to water containing high amounts of sediment and requires removal by flipping the filtration unit upside down. Yet, for a durable and easy-to-maintain gravity filter with a high flow rate, the Platypus GravityWorks is our favorite option to recommend to friends and readers alike.

Read more: Platypus GravityWorks review

Best Bang for the Buck

Aquamira Water Treatment Drops

Effective Against: Bacteria, protozoa, viruses | Weight: 3.0 oz

If you've got time to wait for your potable water, the Aquamira Water Treatment Drops is a lightweight and inexpensive travel system used by many thru-hikers. Treatment is simple: activate the substances, drop them into water, and wait. When given ample time, it kills the most bacteria of all the chemical treatment systems we tested, including cryptosporidium cysts, which is not a common ability among other chemical treatments. When doubled with a filtration system, these drops can easily be used anywhere worldwide. Plus, they are inexpensive and incredibly packable. There is no need to do field maintenance, and the drops inherently never clog, which are bonuses that increase their reliability. On this note, lead tester Amber King says, “I love that there are no maintenance or durability issues to worry about when on the trail. The worst thing I could imagine is that I might accidentally knock over a bottle while treating my water.” So, as long as you're careful where you place the open bottles, we think you'll be fine.

Sadly, chemical treatment doesn't filter out particulates. Therefore, we recommend carrying a pre-filter or a handkerchief to assist with that work. Or, select one of our many award winners that can filter particulates like the lightweight and easy-to-use Sawyer Squeeze. And while the manufacturer advertises a 15-minute treatment time, in reality, you have to wait much longer (four hours is recommended) to get rid of hard-shelled cryptosporidium cysts. Because they so thoroughly destroy almost every living thing in the water, our tester says, “I think this is a great option — I just have to remind myself to leave time to wait for sterilization.” The Aquamira Treatment Drops offer great value for a couple of trips into the backcountry, but if you're seeking longer-term value, consider opting for another system in our testing lineup. Just note that it will mean a higher up-front cost. Overall, the Aquamira drops are definitely our favorite chemical treatment for backcountry water due to their packable design and ease of use.

Read more: Aquamira Water Treatment Drops review

Best Collapsible Bottle Filter

Hydrapak Flux 1.5L

Effective Against: Bacteria, protozoa, microplastics | Weight: 5.0 oz

The Hydrapak Flux 1.5L quickly stood apart from other collapsible, soft bottle water filter designs thanks to a thicker, sturdy, and durable construction. The hollow fiber filter features a 0.2-micron pore size that effectively removes bacteria, protozoa, microplastics, and sediment from open water sources. While Hydrapak advertises a filtration time of one liter per minute, our recorded treatment times often ranged from 28-38 seconds, depending on the source and state of the filter. That's fast! The filter is easy to maintain in the field. If you should encounter slower flow rates, simply shake and swish the filter in a clean water source to loosen particles and sediment from the membrane.

Although the filter is very lightweight and packable, we wished there was a way to remove the filter and simply attach another filter to diversify the design. We also found it difficult to keep our hands dry when filling the bottle, which isn't a big deal unless you're trying to maintain body heat in a cold environment. And while our testers love the durable TPU and laminate construction, the structure can limit your ability to fill the bottle, especially in shallow water sources. We hypothesize that its durable construction may also be a reason for its more expensive price tag than other collapsible water filter designs. Lead tester Trish Matheny quickly commented, “I am so surprised with how well this bottle holds up, especially its handle — it is durable enough to survive several multi-pitch rock climbs and descents!” So, while it may be more expensive, the bottle and filter will likely last for many adventures. For a more affordable soft bottle construction, check out the Katadyn BeFree 0.6L; just don't expect similar durability. Another collapsible bottle that combines durability and performance and is perfect for personal use in the backcountry is the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze. It's a long-time favorite and won't disappoint.

Read more: Hydrapak Flux 1.5L review

Excellent for Turbid Water

MSR Guardian Purifier

Effective Against: Viruses, particulates, bacteria, protozoa | Weight: 1 lb 4.5 oz

The MSR Guardian Purifier stands out for its exceptional ability among hand pumps on the market to remove water-borne viruses and other pathogens. The filter's 0.02-micron pore size is impressively tiny compared to the standard size of .1-.2 microns in the Katadyn BeFree 0.6L. The hollow fiber filter delivers pure potable water and requires only easy field maintenance to continue delivering year after year. It's built to last; it's tough, and it's strong. We've owned one for over seven years, and it's performed well during international travel and hiking in the backcountry. Tester Amber King went the extra mile: “I also drop-tested the filter from six feet over concrete, just to double-check.” Its flow rate is exceptional for a pump filter (about 37 seconds for one liter), while the backflush system makes it functional even in the sludgiest of stagnant or turbid water holes. The filter is resilient to freezing, making it an option for trips in colder climates. It's also the only system that performed remarkably well in turbid water due to its built-in backflushing system. If you encounter water muddied with sediment, this is the filter for the job.

Our testers found the Guardian quite remarkable, though we understand it is not for everyone. The initial investment is tremendous, and to be frank, most folks won't want to throw down that kind of cash. If you're searching for a pump filter that will suffice in North America, you probably don't need this Cadillac of hand pumps; a normal hand pump like the Katadyn Hiker Pro is adequate. Also, the Guardian is big, adding weight and bulk to your pack. One tester comments, “I don't love how bulky the filter is, but I like that it doesn't have a lot of loose parts to keep track of.” So, if you require a water purifier for international travel or one that offers a backflush system for turbid water, this model provides reliability that's worth the initial investment.

Read more: MSR Guardian Purifier review

Large Capacity for Groups or Basecamps

MSR AutoFlow XL

Effective Against: Particulates, bacteria, protozoa | Weight: 16.2 oz

The MSR AutoFlow XL is a gravity backpacking water filter designed for large groups and base camps. Tester Amber King mentions that one of her favorite perks is the weight-to-water capacity ratio. While it doesn't compare to single-user models like the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze, Amber says, “I love how I can easily pack it into cracks and crevices to keep the weight of my bag down.” Its large capacity can hold up to 10 liters of water, and its adaptable design fits various storage vessels, again making it a perfect option for group trips. Out of all the models tested, this is our favorite for filtering large amounts of water due to its minimal setup and the ability to leave it unattended while filtering. It also doubles as a handwash station or even a shower during the warmer seasons.

Even though we love this system, it has the slowest flow rate of all the gravity filters we tested. We found that consistent backflushes are necessary, particularly when dealing with turbid water. If you're looking for a similar gravity filter with a quicker treatment time, the Platypus GravityWorks might be more your speed. Or if you wanna check out a more affordable gravity filter, check out the LifeStraw Peak 3L. Also, to utilize the full capacity of the MSR AutoFlow XL, you might find your site selection limited by the availability of strong anchors from which to hang it. Bottom line: This filter is a good option for those requiring a gravity filter that can handle large quantities of water with minimal effort.

Read more: MSR Autoflow XL review

Best Bottle Press Purifier

Grayl GeoPress

Effective Against: Particulates, bacteria, protozoa, viruses, chemicals, heavy metals | Weight: 19.4 oz

The Grayl Geopress quickly became one of our most used and favorite purification systems. It supersedes most systems we compared it to for varied reasons. Basic functions like collecting water, pushing it through the filter, and drinking it immediately from the bottle are all accounted for. More importantly, the Geopress removes the most disgusting water contaminants that you might find. It's said to remove not only viruses but also heavy metals, plastics, pesticides, and more. Our water came out clear when we tested this in a heavily metal-polluted river in Ouray, CO. We believe no other system could purify this well, with most still leaving some detectable smell or discoloration behind. The bottle also proved incredibly durable and met our needs while traveling. Save yourself from buying tons of disposable water bottles during travel and get the Grayl Geopress instead. And while we don't recommend this system for backcountry travel, the LifeStraw Go 1L is the perfect bottle filtration system for those who simply want to enjoy clean water while on the go in the airport or during a short hike outside town.

Compared to similar models, this bottle is much easier to push down to force the water through the filter, especially with the handgrips along the side. Though we appreciate the function, this system is not our first choice for lightweight backcountry travel because of its bulky and heavy design. If you want something less bulky and easier on your wallet, look at the LifeStraw. The Grayl Geopress's cartridge life is minimal, and refills are costly. Based on these downsides and our side-by-side test comparisons, we find this system provides a relatively low value for the price. But, for traveling abroad, this system offers peace of mind when collecting water from taps or other polluted sources.

Read more: Grayl Geopress

Compare Products

Compare select up to 5 products to compare

	Score	Product	Price
	82	LifeStraw Peak Squeeze Best Overall Filter for Personal Use	$44
	80	Hydrapak Flux 1.5L Best Collapsible Bottle Filter	$55
	75	Platypus GravityWorks Best Overall Filter for Group Use	$135
	75	Katadyn BeFree 0.6L	$40
	73	LifeStraw Peak Gravity 3L	$66
	72	Aquamira Water Treatment Drops Best Bang for the Buck	$15
	72	MSR Guardian Purifier Excellent for Turbid Water	$390
	72	Grayl GeoPress	$100
	72	Katadyn BeFree Gravity 6L	$115
	71	Potable Aqua Purification Tablets	$14
	71	Sawyer Squeeze	$46
	67	MSR Aquatabs	$15
	66	LifeStraw	$20
	65	Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets	$16
	65	Sawyer Micro Squeeze	$34
	63	Grayl UltraPress	$90
	63	Katadyn Hiker Pro	$100
	61	Lifestraw Go 1L	$50
	61	Katadyn Hiker	$90
	61	MSR AutoFlow XL	$125
	61	SteriPEN Ultra	$130
	61	Katadyn Pocket	$395
	60	Sawyer Mini	$29
	60	MSR Hyperflow Microfilter	$150
	59	MSR Miniworks EX	$125

How We Tested

To test each product in this review, we take to the trails. We run, hike, and bike hundreds of remote miles with filters in tow, guzzling gallons of water filtered and purified from trailside sources. Using a systematic test plan, we assess each system's anatomy, dissect the pros and cons, and evaluate whether a system is reliable enough to earn our favor. Each product sees hands-on and in-field experience. We also perform rigorous indoor tests to determine minute differences between products. We specifically make sludgy water samples using fertilizers, soils, and other particulates to truly test how each filter and purifier performs. Our recommendations come from experience in the field and home-based experiments that comparatively test each product's performance.

Our comprehensive testing spanned six testing metrics:

• Water Quality (20% overall score weighting)

• Durability and Maintenance (20% weighting)

• Treatment Time (15% weighting)

• Weight and Packability (15% weighting)

• Ease of Setup (15% weighting)

• Ease of Filtration (15% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab

Jessica Haist, Amber King, and Trish Matheny are seasoned gear testers (with over 25 years of collective experience) who love to explore in the backcountry. Both Jessica and Amber work in outdoor education. As educators, they spend lots of time in the woods, backpacking along trails and exploring remote locations. You can find Jessica playing at the local granite crags, sucking up rays of the sun, or riding trails on her mountain bike, and Amber is an avid ultrarunner and rock climber with years of outdoor education under her belt. Trish is a Yosemite Search and Rescue Team member, where she has ample opportunities to test water filters in the backcountry of the ever-popular Yosemite National Park. During her off seasons, she loves to travel, often splitting her time between running ultra distances and climbing granite. Our testing team uses these filters throughout all seasons of the year, with over a decade of cumulative experience testing these filters and purifiers.

Analysis and Test Results

With a focus on backcountry water filters, we chose a wide variety of options that you'll encounter on the market. While it might be difficult to assess different categories of water treatment products (for example, chemical treatment versus a hand pump), the metrics used to evaluate each filter offer helpful insight into which products excel in one area or another. We hope to help you find exactly what you need using this information.

What's the Best Value?

A great purifier or filter lasts long and doesn't cost an arm and a leg to maintain. While the original ticket price on some items might seem low, the expenses of replacement parts might add up, running up a larger bill over the filter's life. The LifeStraw Peak series offers impressive value because they provide more filtered or purified liters before requiring replacement than other models we tested.

The Katadyn Hiker is a pump filter with great reliability and longevity at an affordable price compared to pump filters that tend to cost much more. The LifeStraw Peak Squeeze is also a fantastic system for adventuring, offering the versatility to drink from a bottle or directly from the source. While purification tablets and liquids like the Potable Aqua Purification Tablets, Aquamira Water Treatment Drops, and Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets have a low upfront cost, they offer less value per liter over time as they need to be replaced every 30 liters or so. When considering the price, consider how you'd like to pay for your system: with minimal, repetitive costs or a larger sum less frequently.

Water Quality

When considering this metric, we specifically look at what each backpacking water filter can remove, as well as the overall taste and odor of the water. We went to shallow puddles, smelly swamps, and contaminated streams to see what each filter could do. Those that remove everything, including heavy metals and pesticides, triumphed in this category.

Backpacking water filters and purifiers use technology to remove protozoa, bacteria, and other water-borne pathogens. Filters typically don't have a pore size that can remove viruses. Other categories are chemical tablets and UV light systems. Below, we outline the different types of systems and what they are capable of eliminating.

Water Purifiers

Water purifiers are what you need if you're traveling abroad or treading in terribly polluted areas. Water purifiers remove particulates, protists, and bacteria but can also rid the water of viruses. For example, the MSR Guardian is a tried and tested hand pump that can do just that. It expunges smells from water and removes viruses, but it can't remove heavy metals or chemicals. If you're traveling internationally, it's a great companion to filter water from the sink or a local stream.

The Grayl Geopress stands out above the rest, using push technology to scrub water of contaminants. We tried this system on a particularly contaminated stream in Ouray, Colorado, that runs yellow from pollutants like lead, arsenic, chromium, and iron oxides. The water smells acidic, and it is acidic. After using the Geopress, all these metals were removed, and the pH of the water was neutralized. We drank it shortly after, not experiencing any weird tastes or side effects. We'd also take the MSR Guardian with us, but we'd be more careful about our water source. However, the MSR Guardian has a much longer lifespan and can process more water in bulk.

UV Light

UV light purifiers also effectively eliminate water pathogens. UV light like the SteriPEN Ultra can be put into a glass of liquid and swirled around to destroy pathogens that could cause an infection. The SteriPen is easy to use and features a long structure you swish around in water to achieve purification. Though the SteriPen offers great water quality, it will not remove particulates, smells, or metals, so it doesn't score as high as other models.

Chemical Treatment

Even though chemical treatments are effective, they all impart an off-flavor to the water and do not filter out particulates. The Aquamira Water Treatment Drops are our favorite chemical treatment tested because they kill all organisms (with enough time). At the same time, the Potable Aqua Purification Tablets and MSR Aquatabs can destroy viruses, bacteria, and some protozoans, but not Cryptosporidium. If you want to add a backup to your emergency kit, check out the Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets, which have a 5-year shelf life but a strong chemical flavor. The Aquamira Drops have the least “chemical” taste of all three options we tested. Try filtering the water through a buff or handkerchief before treating the water to reduce sediment if necessary.

Water Filtration Units

A backpacking water filter (not a purifier) can remove particulates, bacteria, and protozoans (Giardia and Cryptosporidium) but cannot remove viruses. The best filtration systems can remove chemicals, heavy metals, and odors using activated carbon embedded in the core of the media.

Of the backpacking water filters we tested, the Katadyn Hiker Pro, Katadyn Hiker, and MSR MiniWorks EX offer protection from microorganisms and chemicals like pesticides to improve the taste of the water. And if these larger, bulkier systems feel a little outdated for you and you're after a lightweight, simple, on-the-go solution, our testers love the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze and the Hydrapak Flux 1.5L. The Peak Squeeze is perfect for solo missions, while the Flux can support a party of two. While there are other collapsible bottle filtration systems, these two stand out for their simplicity and durability.

A Note on Water Turbidity

Planning for water sources saturated entirely with silty sediment — referred to as highly turbid — may be useful. For example, the Colorado River, which has carved out popular backpacking locations like the Grand Canyon, is one of the most turbid rivers in the world. If you live close to it, you've seen it transform from a clear greenish color to what looks like chocolate milk shortly after rainfall.

Most backpacking water filters and purification systems cannot deal with the amount of sediment and silt in water sources like this. The only system that held up in these conditions is the MSR Guardian Purifier, another reason it's one of our favorites. It utilizes an auto backflush that cleans the filter with every pump.

If you plan on traveling to areas with high turbidity, bring a gallon ziplock bag or a bag designated for settling water. Scoop up the silty water and let it settle for a few minutes. Clearwater will remain at the top, with sediment falling to the bottom. Gradually pour the upper layers of water into your filtration device or filter from the top of the bag. This is an easy and cheap “pre-filtration” technique for these areas. Some gravity systems have a “sediment collector” in the bottom, like the MSR AutoFlow XL.

Durability and Maintenance

Reliable backpacking water filters are durable in construction. You don't want to be without a filter simply because it gets dropped, and you don't want to spend hours maintaining it. Products that offer high-quality components and reliability with minimal durability issues are available.

The most durable and reliable products are chemical treatments. Each comes in either jars or prepacked packets that can go into a plastic bag. They have no moving parts, don't require maintenance, and don't expire. If you want 100% reliability, this is it. The Aquamira Treatment Drops are a favorite of ours. We strongly recommend carrying these as a backup system, especially when traveling into the backcountry for extended periods. There are too many situations where filters can clog, parts might be lost, or things may not work. Carrying these treatment drops can mean the difference between life, death, or grave discomfort.

Gravity Filters

All of these systems have filters requiring frequent maintenance and care, depending on how much sediment you filter from the water. The Platypus GravityWorks 4L and the MSR gravity systems use the same hollow fiber technology. It's important to know that regular back flushes are required, which is simply flipping the filter upside down and allowing water to run through it. Similarly, the LifeStraw Peak Gravity 3L must be flushed with clean water, using a syringe to draw clean water through the filter to remove clogs. Alternatively, the Katadyn Gravity BeFree 6L requires a rinse, which is hard to do with water that isn't clear of sediment in the first place. All systems are pretty durable and easy to use; be sure you're amenable to their maintenance requirements to ensure maximum flow.

Hand Pumps

These models are pretty durable in general until they get clogged. The MSR Guardian is the most durable and maintenance-free backpacking water purification system we tested, and we'd trust it anywhere. It auto cleans, even in turbid water, offering the best reliability in terms of hand pumps. It can also be frozen, unlike any other hand pump system. The MSR MiniWorks EX is another reliable hand pump with a ceramic-carbon core that can be easily serviced. Unfortunately, it does require a lot of maintenance to keep it working well (lots of scrubbing), but it can be fixed in the field, which is a bonus.

The Katadyn Hiker Pro and Katadyn Hiker models are extremely consistent in performance. Both use a glass fiber filter that needs to be replaced if you allow it to become completely clogged. Both can be serviced in the field, but you must be careful not to keep pumping if performance decreases. Between the two, the Hiker Pro is better by a hair. It's more durable and performs a bit better overall. For minimal improvement, though, we tend to recommend the Hiker. These pump filters require less maintenance than the MSR MiniWorks EX. Katadyn also offers the Katadyn Pocket hand pumps, one of the most durable filters we tested. It is easy to clean in the field or at home by removing the ceramic filter and using scour pads to restore the filter to its original color.

The MSR Hyperflow Microfilter is the fastest-flowing pump filter we tested, but it also requires the most service. When the filter is clogged, it must be backflushed, requiring a complete system disassembly to return it to a functional state. So, while it is a durable unit, regular maintenance is necessary (backflushing every 8 liters with clear water, more with turbid water), which can be a pain.

Squeeze Systems

Our testers can't say enough about the durability of the Hydrapak Flux 1.5L. The 100% BPA and PVC free soft bottle is constructed from a thick and sturdy combination of abrasion-resistant TPU, welded seams, and dual-layer laminate that we couldn't get to fail, no matter how hard we tried. After several days of adventurous rock climbing through sharp chimneys and off-widths with the bottle attached to our harness, we could not get the soft bottle nor bail handle to fail. While the durability sets this filter apart from other popular squeeze options, like the Sawyer Squeeze, the maintenance is another selling point. Rather than carrying extra parts to backflush the filter, remove it from the soft bottle before swishing in clean water to remove any sediment and particulates. While this process is simple and effective, our testers didn't deem it necessary until filtering from a particularly turbid river raging with sediment after significant rain.

Another great squeeze bottle is the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze, which corrects our durability complaints about the Sawyer and Katadyn bottles. The overall versatility is top-notch, as you can drink directly from the source or via the bottle after filling. If there's a distance between water sources, you can remove the filter and store the water in the 33.8-ounce bottle to drink along your route. Regular maintenance is key for optimal flow rate, and the projected lifespan of the filter is double that of the Katadyn BeFree 0.6L.

The Katadyn BeFree 0.6L is a notable option for lightweight missions like trail running. The bottle that it comes with is also prone to leaking. However, we found that it can be attached to other handheld bottle options that are much more durable. Its durability is a drawback, but the filter itself offers some of the best flow and adaptability. Cleaning is easy; just swish it in clean water. You don't need to carry any extra parts, and clogging does not often happen.

On-the-Go Systems

The Sawyer Squeeze and LifeStraw are two options that we like. If you're seeking the most barebones option that doesn't require you to carry extra items, the LifeStraw is where it's at. It's light, easy to carry, and long enough to provide easy access to water sources. The Squeeze Mini and Micro are fine options for on-the-go carry but require a syringe and straw adaptor.

UV Light

This is one of the most unreliable systems simply because it needs a power source. Battery life can be tough to predict, especially in colder temperatures. For this reason, we do not recommend taking filters like the SteriPen along for filtration during extended trips into the backcountry. However, it would be a suitable option for travel or for regularly purifying municipal water sources.

Backcountry Field Maintenance

Although maintenance is always important in the backcountry, it is useful to consider which options are the easiest to clean up, as this adds value to the filter's overall reliability in the field. This is especially true for those making a big choice to undertake a long backpacking trail hike, where the water filter will need to be used for weeks or months.

Of all the options tested, the easiest units to clean in the field are those that can simply be backflushed, like the Platypus GravityWorks 4L and MSR AutoFlow XL. When thoroughly clogged, some filters require a complete replacement, which isn't ideal in a remote space. The easiest to maintain, by far, is the MSR Guardian Purifier, which backflushes and cleans itself and has been hassle-free in our testing.

Treatment Time

This metric considers the time it takes to collect water from the source and then filter it. To test this, we noted if water filtration is instantaneous. If not, we performed three separate time trials and averaged them to determine an average time to filter one liter. The fastest times received the highest scores.

Straw Filters

The fastest backpacking water filter systems are the straw filters that allow you to drink water directly from the source. Water flow is typically slower than alternative filter styles and is very much based on the individual construction of the input, filter body, and straw or bite value. We found the Lifestraw personal straw fairly laborious to use, even though we appreciated its small profile and think it could certainly come in handy when traveling lean and light.

Squeeze Filters

These backpacking water filters use a collapsible bottle or pouch, offering a little water storage beyond one to one-and-a-half liters. The Sawyer products all demonstrate this adaptability, but our favorite is the Katadyn BeFree 0.6L for its fast-flow bite valve that delivers water quickly. This makes it a favorite among trail runners because water collection takes no time, and treatment is instantaneous.

Of all the Sawyer products, the Sawyer Squeeze presented the best flow rate during our side-by-side tests. In squeeze mode, it can filter a liter of water in just 40 seconds. The Mini, the smallest of the group, took 2 minutes to filter a liter of water, with the Micro somewhere in between. However, if you like Squeeze products and want an awesome flow rate, consider the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze, capable of filtering a liter of water in just 35 seconds. Just know that this requires more maintenance to achieve the maximum flow throughout the filter's life.

Pump Filters

We pumped over 40 liters of water and timed it to see how many strokes each filter took to do the job and which were the fastest. The hands-down winner in this category is the MSR Hyperflow (27 seconds, 29 strokes per liter). It pumps out hoards of water super quickly. However, this model also slowed down the fastest while in use, reducing its flow rate significantly as the liters added up. The MSR Guardian placed second, filtering a liter in 37 seconds and maintaining performance even in the murkiest water.

The Katadyn products and the MSR Guardian offered the most consistent performance in our testing overall and worked best in turbid conditions. After a significant rain storm, the Katadyn Pocket performed well, producing clean, high-quality drinking water — but we had to be patient at one liter per minute. In these tests, the MSR Hyperflow and MiniWorks EX needed cleaning almost every 4 liters. In our sludge tests, all the pump filters, except the MSR Guardian, needed to be cleaned out after processing every liter. Impressive.

Gravity Filters

With comparable flow rates, gravity filters are nice because you conveniently don't have to pump or do anything once they are set up. They can process large quantities of water, making them highly useful for small to large groups. All of the gravity filters are relatively close in treatment time, but the clear winner is the LifeStraw Peak Gravity 3L with a treatment time of 30-34 seconds per liter. The Katadyn BeFree Gravity 6L is a close second, filtering one liter in 40 seconds. The Platypus GravityWorks 4L comes in third place, filtering one liter in 52 seconds.

Weight and Packability

Weight and packability are essential. If you're carrying less weight, long hikes can be more enjoyable. We weigh each system and assess its relative profile to assess this metric.. We tested them with hydration vests, backpacking backpacks, and day packs. Generally, lighter and easier-to-pack products scored better than bulkier options.

Of all the treatments available, chemical treatments are, by far, the lightest weight tool for the job. They can be a terrific choice for planning a long thru-hike or big trail run. Out of the treatments we tested, the MSR Aquatabs, Potable Aqua Purification Tablets, and Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets can simply be put into a little baggy without needing to carry the entire bottle, helping to cut down on weight. The only drawback is that these can leave a chemical taste in the water (for most people). The Aquamira Treatment Drops can't be parsed out like the tablets, but some prefer them because they don't taste as bad as the tablet options.

The lightest filtration systems are on-the-go systems like the collapsable Katadyn BeFree 0.6L, Lifestraw personal filter, and LifeStraw Peak Squeeze. Of the gravity filters, the Katadyn BeFree Gravity 6L is the lightest and most packable (9.28 ounces). If you prefer a hand pump system, the lightest systems are the MSR Hyperflow (10.6 ounces) and the Katadyn Hiker Pro (13.2 ounces).

Ease of Setup

We assess ease of setup based on how many steps each filter requires to begin filtering water and whether or not that setup feels intuitive. We also consider how easy it is to access different water sources.

The Grayl UltraPress comes set up and ready to go; however, we found it difficult to fill the 16.9-ounce bottle when collecting water from shallow bodies of water.

The easiest setups are the ones that require little thought, few instructions, and easy access. The top models have no parts to carry around or steps to follow. On-the-go systems are the easiest here, and the basic Lifestraw is the best for this. Unlike other more complex on-the-go systems, this filter only requires you to find a puddle or accessible water source and simply drink.

Purification tablets are also pretty simple. Those like the MSR Aquatabs, Potable Aqua Tablets, and Katadyn Micropur Tablets just require you to drop them in the water and wait. The Aquamira Drops are also pretty simple but with a steeper learning curve. These require you to follow a series of specific steps where you have to mix two solutions and wait for a specified amount of time. The time frame depends on what contaminants you need to eliminate from the water.

Hand pumps are also relatively easy to set up and offer great access to all sorts of water sources. The Katadyn Hiker Pro, Katadyn Hiker, and MSR MiniWorks EX are favorites because the intake can grab water from the smallest nooks and crannies. The MSR Guardian works well for this, but it has a larger particle screen that makes it harder to reach shallow sources. Pump filters excel at reaching water over steep banks, boat sides, or fast rivers when water access can be an issue. While easy to pump, the Katadyn Pocket has many moving parts, and we felt it necessary to carefully read the instructions tensurere we had the input and output hoses in the correct locations.

Gravity filters require more effort to set up because you need a place to elevate them. The ideal scenario is to hang the filter from a branch. If that is not available, you may need to get creative. Reservoirs that are very flexible with large openings can get water from most water sources. However, because you have to scoop up water, the source needs to have a sufficient pool to collect water. Shallow pools are harder to reach.

Ease of Filtration

Here, we look at the amount of effort required to get water through the backpacking water filtration system physically. While we don't score storage capacity, we note how much water each system is designed to store or if another bottle is necessary for storage.

UV Purifiers

The SteriPen Ultra requires the least work of all the categories we tested. Setup is easy; simply turn the light on. Though the SteriPen takes less time to filter a liter than other UV options, it is not hands-free and requires consistent attention during purification.

Gravity Filters

Gravity backpacking water filters are the best systems for ease of filtration. After set up, the filtration process is hands-free. All gravity filters in our review earn top points for being easy to filter. These filtration systems can move lots of water quickly, making them a top choice for groups. One difference is the height requirement to filter. Some need full suspension and can't be put on the ground. In contrast, the MSR AutoFlow and the Platypus GravityWorks can be laid on a hill or over a rock and still filter water.

Some come with “clean water” vessels like the Platypus GravityWorks while others like the Katadyn Gravity BeFree 6L and MSR AutoFlow have a simple hose running from the bag to a storage vessel of your choice. All adapt nicely with a hydration bladder and can be filtered into a bottle if needed.

Hand Pumps

Hand pumps are a little harder to use as you must physically pump to move water through the system. Hand filters vary by design and efficiency, which is dictated by output per pump. Of the hand pumps we tested, the MSR Hyperflow, MSR Guardian, and the Katadyn Pocket are the easiest to use. They are highly efficient filters, translating into less pumping and more water production. The Guardian has a large handle that's easy to grab, similar to the MSR MiniWorks EX. The MSR Hyperflow has a smaller system but is still pretty ergonomic. The Katadyn Pocket was recently redesigned with a new grip handle and a longer outlet hose to increase efficiency and maximum comfort while water moves through the system. Most hand pumps we tested have attachments that best fit a Nalgene bottle. The Katadyn Hiker models have easy-to-use handles but aren't as ergonomic as the MSR products.

On-the-go Filters

On-the-go backpacking water filtration systems are typically easy to set up but are propelled by either sucking or squeezing forces. Of the on-the-go systems, the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze, the Hydrapak Flux 1.5L, and Sawyer Squeeze are the easiest to suck through when in straw style. Others are harder, like the Sawyer Mini, which gives you very little water for each suckle. Press action filters like the Grayl UltraPress provide another on-the-go option, only requiring a little extra muscle to press the water through the filter before enjoying the results immediately or storing water for later use in the durable bottle. And other bottle filter options like the LifeStraw Go 1L were easy to filter, as you simply fill the water bottle before drinking through an opening in the lid. Still, we found the bulkier, heavier, and a little overkill for the backcountry.

How to Select a Backpacking Water Filter and Treatment System For You

While there are many water filtration and purification options, it's useful to identify some key considerations before purchasing.

What Type of Water Filter or Purifier Do You Need?

Before diving into the specific types, it is important to decipher between water purification and filtration. Water filters strain harmful bacteria and protozoa through the filter without removing viruses, while water purifiers are specifically designed to kill viruses.

Pump Filters

Pump filters typically treat water by hand-pumping water through the filter, which features a pore size small enough to prevent microorganisms from passing through. While it takes longer to pump the water by hand, they are reliable and perfect for one to two people.

Gravity Filters

Gravity filters treat water by allowing gravity to push water through the filter, thereby eliminating the time and effort required to pump by hand. Some gravity-fed filters are even interchangeable with other handheld options. Although they require a tree or something to hang the bag from for gravity to take over, they are easy to use, offer ample storage, and are perfect for large groups and basecamps.

On-The-Go Systems

On-the-go systems treat water through a straw placed directly into the water source, using the filter itself, or by attachment to a compatible bottle. Water is essentially filtered as you drink. These filters are often lightweight and super packable, making them the perfect choice for solo missions. The only downside is that water storage requires another bottle.

Bottle Filters

Bottle filters utilize a built-in filter inside the bottle, where you press the water through the filter before drinking. These personalized filtration systems can be difficult to press but are often perfect for solo front-country travel or short hikes in the wilderness.

Chemical Drops and Tablets

Chemical drops and tablets purify water by releasing chemicals that kill viruses, most protozoa, and bacteria. That being said, these are incapable of killing Cryptosporidium, which is common in North America. Therefore, these treatments are ideal when combined with another form of filtration. Ultimately, we recommend using these treatments in emergencies due to their long treatment time and terrible flavor.

UV Light Purifiers

UV Light Purifiers are designed to purify water by destroying harmful viruses through contact with ultraviolet light. This process confuses the DNA of these tiny pathogens, which prevents them from reproducing; afterwards, the treated water is safe to consume. These purifiers are best suited for international travel but require battery life and aren't capable of removing particulates.

What Will You Use Your Filter For?

There are many different ways to enjoy traveling in the great outdoors. If you plan on moving quickly through demanding terrain on solo missions, on-the-go filtration may be the perfect choice to drink directly from the stream. Backpacking with a family? Perhaps the simplicity and ease of a gravity-fed filter is the best choice for your basecamp. No matter your activity, a filter is designed to meet your specific needs.

Conclusion

A critical gear consideration like a water filter or purifier warrants research and excellent hands-on testing. Whether you are filtering water for a group or simply want to add a backup to your emergency kit, this is where we come in. We hope that our insights have helped you in your search and in narrowing down your options. Happy trails!