Water treatment on the trail
Squeeze filters became the default on long US trails. Here is why, and what they do not do.
Squeeze filters
Fill a pouch, screw on the filter and squeeze into a bottle. Light, fast and easy to backflush.
What they remove
Hollow-fiber filters remove bacteria and protozoa but not viruses or chemicals. Near towns or farms, add chemical treatment when in doubt.
Freezing
A frozen filter can crack without showing it. On cold nights, sleep with it.
Picks on Amazon
- Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System (SP131)Screw-on filter with three pouches; one of the most common water filters on long US trails.
- LifeStraw Personal Water FilterStraw filter for drinking straight from a source; a light backup to a main filter.
Check the current price, version and seller on Amazon before you buy.