5 best hiker water filters

Hiker water filters are portable water filtration devices designed for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers and backpackers, to purify and make natural water sources safe for drinking. These filters are essential for anyone spending time in the wilderness, where access to clean and safe drinking water may be limited. Here are some key points about hiker water filters:

  1. Filtration Technology: Hiker water filters use various filtration technologies to remove contaminants and impurities from natural water sources. Common technologies include microfiltration, ultrafiltration, and hollow fiber membranes. These filters physically trap bacteria, protozoa, and larger particles, preventing them from passing through.

  2. Purification Process: When using a hiker water filter, users typically gather water from streams, rivers, or lakes and pass it through the filter. The filter's microscopic pores capture harmful microorganisms like Giardia and Cryptosporidium, as well as sediment and debris.

  3. Chemical-Free: Unlike some water treatment methods that involve adding chemicals (like iodine or chlorine) to disinfect water, hiker water filters provide a chemical-free way to purify water. This can be a preferred method for those who want to avoid chemical treatments.

  4. Compact and Portable: Hiker water filters are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them suitable for backpacking and camping trips.They are typically small enough to fit in a backpack or even a pocket.

  5. Ease of Use: These filters are relatively easy to use. Users simply follow the manufacturer's instructions to gather water, connect the filter, and drink the purified water directly or store it for later use.

  6. Flow Rate: The flow rate of a hiker water filter can vary from model to model. Some filters offer faster flow rates, allowing users to fill their containers quickly, while others may have a slower flow rate but provide more thorough filtration.

  7. Maintenance: Periodic maintenance, such as backflushing or cleaning the filter element, may be required to ensure the filter continues to work effectively. Proper maintenance is essential for the longevity of the filter.

  8. Longevity: The lifespan of hiker water filters depends on the model and how frequently they are used. It's important to consider the filter's capacity and replacement requirements when planning for extended trips.

  9. Compatibility: Some hiker water filters are designed to screw onto standard water bottles or hydration reservoirs, while others come with their own water collection pouches or containers. Compatibility with your existing gear is an important factor to consider.

  10. Cost: Hiker water filters are available at various price points. While some premium models offer advanced features, there are also budget-friendly options that provide reliable water purification.

In summary, hiker water filters are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, allowing them to source and consume safe drinking water from natural sources while on hiking or camping adventures. These filters provide a convenient and chemical-free way to stay hydrated in the great outdoors. When choosing a hiker water filter, consider factors such as filtration technology, flow rate, portability, and compatibility with your outdoor gear.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hiker water filters on the market
  

Katadyn Hiker Microfilter

Katadyn

Based on 922 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FEATURES of the Katadyn Hiker Microfilter Very compact and lightweight - only 11 oz Chosen "Best in the bunch by a long shot" in major test for ease-of-use The lowest maintenance backpacking filter available Cartridge / Cycle Life: Up to 750 liters

  • Easy-to-use design is great for the beginning camper to the serious backpacker
  • The 0.2 micron glassfiber filter media is designed for high output with little effort
  • Activated carbon in the core of the filter improves the taste and reduces chemicals in your drinking water
  • Provides safe drinking water in any challenging conditions
  • Lowest maintenance water filter available; no need for constant backflushing

User questions & answers

Question: Does this filter remove viruses? oilecast
Answer: This is their claim. I have used this product all over the world. I have no complaints. v/rPATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMSPROTOZOA (AMOEBAE, GIARDIA, LAMBLIA, CRYPTOSPORIDIA)Animal single-cell organisms, 1 - 15 microns* in size, which like bacteria get into drinking water through animal and human fecesThese hard-shelled parasites form cysts, which lead to acute gastrointestinal diseases in humansCommon in unfiltered surface water. Have also been found in drinking water (Milwaukee, London, Sydney)A single cell is all it takes for an infection BACTERIA (E-COLI, SALMONELLA, CHOLERA)Single-cell organism 0.2 - 5 microns* in sizePropagate quickly in warm environments and particular in water,depending on the supply of nutrientsBecome dangerous if they are mixed together with human and animal feces in the drinking waterVIRUSES (HEPATITIS A, NORWALK VIRUS, ROTA VIRUS, POLIO VIRUS)Tiny parasites 0.02 - 0.2 microns*Can only propagate in living cells since they do not possess their own metabolismGet into drinking water through animal and human fecesNear populated areas, where wastewater can get into drinking waterA large number of additional pathogens are known besides the germs listed above. But according to the World Health Organization (WHO), their pathogenic (disease-inducing) action is only slight, or they are primarily absorbed along with food.
Question: My main concern is filtering out harmful micro organisms such as giardia, Does this filter serve that purpose or does it only improve taste
Answer: That is the purpose for which the filter was designed, it may not get viruses, but no filters really do. It will remove bacteria and Protista (giardia) an if you need to worry about viruses where you are camping you can boat treat the water with iodine drops or a UV light. But most places this filter alone will make the water safe to drink.
Question: Does this come with a filter already? Or do i need to buy one separately
Answer: It comes with a filter. Replacement filters are available, because they naturally wear out over time with use.
Question: Newer filters boast .1 micron filtering, while this unit is .3. It seems that a more modern, .1 micron element should be available. Is it
Answer: This unit actually has .2 micron glassfiber filter. You can get access to the white sheets for it here: http://www.katadyn.com/usen/katadyn-products/products/katadynshopconnect/katadyn-water-filters-backcountry-series-products/katadyn-hiker-microfilter/ - This unit produces good clean water but I've only used it in mountain lakes and streams. Would I use it for water from the river behind my house in Florida? No, absolutely not. But for backpacking it is great, light, compact and easy to use.

Product features

Katadyn Hiker Water Microfilter

Carrying gallons of water isn’t necessary when you are carrying this durable 11-ounce water microfilter in your backpack. A quick stop at a river or stream with the pump-action Katadyn Hiker Water Microfilter lets you continue on your trek with hydration packs and water bottles full of clean, clear drinking water. The 0.2 micron glass-fiber filter media is designed for high output with little effort. It connects directly to your hydration pack with 1/4” drink tubes and water bottles.

Filters all sediment, particles, and microorganisms that are found in ‘fresh’ water sources.

Cartridge can clean up to approximately 200 gallons (750 liters) of water, depending on the condition of the water.

Continue on your trek with water bottles and packs full of clean, clear drinking water.

Quickly converts suspect water to safe drinking water at rate of approx. 1 quart (1 liter) per minute, or around 48 pump strokes.

Active carbon core.

Active carbon core reduces bad taste and odor and reduces chemicals in drinking water.

Universal Adaptor fits onto most water bottles, carry bag keeps your system organized.

Hydration connector painlessly attaches to 1/4-inch hydration pack connections (Camelbak, Platypus, etc).

Katadyn Hiker PRO Replacement Cartridge

This replacement filter provides up to 300 gallons of clean drinking water before it needs replacing. Compatible with the Katadyn Hiker, Hiker Pro, and Base Camp microfilter systems. A removable filter protector helps extend cartridge life in extreme conditions, and a glass-fiber element boasts an innovative pleated design, increasing surface area for improved filtration of silty or muddy water.

Katadyn Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter

The Vario Dual Technology Filter technology consists of three filter levels: a high-performance glass fiber filter, a ceramic pre-filter that can be adjusted individually according to the cloudiness of the water, and active charcoal for eliminating odors. Cartridge capacity, up to 530 gallons (2,000 liters), depending on water quality. Cleanable ceramic disc lengthens life of primary microfilter. Replaceable Katadyn carbon core reduces chemicals, pesticides and bad taste in water.

Katadyn Pocket Water Filter

Made of the highest quality construction, this robust water filter is ideal for long lasting continuous use. The filter’s silver impregnated ceramic element is effective against bacteria and protozoa, using a Micro Filtration method. Up to 1 quart (1 liter)/minute Cartridge capacity, up to 13,000 gallons (50,000 liters), depending on water quality. This pocket water filter is a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts and international travelers, and the U.S. Military.

Optimus Crux Lite Stove with Terra Cook Set

The smallest, most ultra light 3-piece Cook System combines the Crux Lite stove and Solo Cook Set. Set includes: Crux Lite stove (72 g/2.5 oz), 0.6 Liter hard anodized aluminum saucepan with pouring lip and measuring marks, fry pan that doubles as a lid, mesh storage bag and nylon storage bag to store Crux Lite stove. Average boil time is 3 minutes for 1 quart (1 liter) water, depending on climate and/or altitude. The perfect cook system when ultralight and small size are critical.

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for Hiking, Camping, Travel, and Emergency Preparedness

LifeStraw

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price
  • Award-winning LifeStraw water filter is a must-carry tool for hiking, camping, travel, and emergencies; no disaster kit is complete without it
  • Filters up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 liters) of contaminated water without iodine, chlorine, or other chemicals; does not require batteries and has no moving parts
  • Removes minimum 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria, 99.9% of waterborne protozoan parasites, and filters to 0.2 microns; surpasses EPA filter standards
  • An alternative to iodine tablets and bulky purifiers, it weighs 2oz for ultralight portability, and has a high flow rate for drinking from the source
  • Comes in a sealed bag, perfect for storing in a bugout bag or other prepper gear supply kit; measures 9 x 1 x 1 inches.BPA Free materials

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use it with sea water the LifeStraw
Answer: it has a turntable
Question: I am a bit confused... Does the shelf life of 5 years begin after first use? Or 5 years even if unused? Does it have a manufactured date on it? If we don't use them do we need to replace them every 5 years
Answer: 12 1/4 inches. is the size of my turntable
Question: does it filter out chemical toxins
Answer: comes with all you need
Question: Odd question, but its on my mind. If i pee into a bowl, and use the filter on that, will it taste like water or pee
Answer: vents inside

Waterdrop Personal Water Filter Straw, Portable Camping Filtration System, Drinking Water Purifier for Emergency Hiking Travel Backpacking

Waterdrop

Based on 234 reviews Check latest price
  • 💧 【Premium materials】: Effectively Reduces 99% of harmful substances. The adoption of high-grade coconut shell activated carbon fiber improves odor and taste, ensures the water safety and delivers better drinking experience.
  • 💧 【Versatile uses】: Use with water bags or connect to water bottles to filtrate water for drinking. Both ends of it can be disassembled and connected with water bags and water bottles to offer you clean drinking water anywhere, anytime.
  • 💧 【Outdoor water needs】: Fulfill all your outdoor water demands: hiking, camping, domestic and international travel, emergency preparedness (tornadoes, rainstorms, earthquakes, floods, etc.) to meet the emergency water demand in a variety of situations.Each straw weighs only 0.19 pounds.
  • 💧 【Innovative super-wash design】: No need for the extra syringe to backwash. It eliminates cumbersome fittings and saves space, brings you pure water with the greatest convenience and comfort.
  • 💧 【Smaller frame】: Smaller frame but bigger capacity, Waterdrop Filterstraw can provide safe drinking water up to 100,000 gallons. It is easy to absorb water and can quench your thirst instantly. Match with water bags or bottles for the ultimate drinking experience.

User questions & answers

Question: I have family and friends there, does it ship to the Philippines
Answer: It says that you can. I have had the cold water line turned off for other reasons when chaning it, so I can't say for sure, but think that you would have very little spillage while changing it.
Question: Will this connect to a hydration bladder
Answer: Yes. Most sinks have a 1-3/8" or 1-1/2" hole so that's the easiest way to install. If you do not have a hole you must drill one but not that large: 9/16" or 5/8" will do. I just purchased one and that info is right from the instructions... for those who may be doubtful.
Question: What is the life of this product
Answer: One full charged battery can last for 4 to 6 hours, it depends on the brightless of the video and the voice level.
Question: How many Microns, and what's the average ppm
Answer: It has speakers.

Product features

Four-stage filtration

It uses four-stage filtration, reducing contaminants—from large particles to extremely tiny particles effectively to ensure the safety of the water.

Improvement of water experience

Uses advanced Japanese activated carbon fiber filter media to ensure water safety and improve taste, providing you with high-quality water in the field.

Effective reduction

The filter adopts a 0.1-micron hollow fiber membrane to reduce 99.99% of harmful substance in water.

Easy to carry and use

You can use the Filterstraw with water bottles or soda bottles that have a standard thread on their tops. Fill the filtered water into the bottle and take it with you anywhere you want.

Can be shared to satisfy many people

Filterstraw can connect to water bags or bottles, and you can enjoy clean water for yourself and with friends.

Achieves cleanliness

There is no need for extra syringe backwashing. It eliminates extra cumbersome fittings and makes the water bag versatile.

Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System

Sawyer Products

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ideal for hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, emergency prep, or traveling abroad, Sawyer's Squeeze Water Filter ensures access to clean water in the backcountry or anywhere in the world. Rated to 0.1 micron absolute filtration, the Squeeze Filter removes 99.99999% of all bacteria such as salmonella, cholera, leptospirosis, and e. Coli, and removes 99. 9999% of all protozoa such as giardia and cryptosporidium (independent testing laboratory Hydration, LLC.; microbiological report S05-03). The Squeeze Filter also filters out 100% of microplastics. To use, simply fill up the reusable pouch (included on most models) at any water source, screw the filter onto the pouch, and drink directly from the filter or squeeze water into a water bottle. The Squeeze Filter is backed by a manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty. Sawyer individually tests each and every Squeeze Filter three times to performance standards before packaging. The Squeeze Filter comes in a range of models to fit your needs. The SP129 Personal System comes with two 32-ounce, BPA-free water pouches, while the SP131 Personal comes with three BPA-free water pouches (two 32-ounce, one 16-ounce) for more versatile water storage. The SP137 Hydration Kit includes inline adapters for hydration pack bladders (sold separately), plus one 16-ounce pouch and a straw for drinking directly from the source. Great for emergencies, backcountry treks with a large group, or overseas mission trips, the All-in-One System is fully loaded with a 32-ounce pouch, faucet adapter, and adapters for attaching the filter to a 5-gallon bucket (sold separately). The SP181 can create clean, filtered water for a group that can yield up to 540 gallons of clean water per day from any freshwater source. Ideal for boil alerts and emergency preparedness kits, the SP182 Faucet Adapter Kit is paired with a faucet adapter that easily connects to almost any household or outdoor faucet worldwide (pouch not included). Since 1984, Sawyer has used technological advancements to create products that keep you outdoors — from the backcountry to the backyard — including insect repellents for both skin and clothing, water filters for camping and emergencies, and sun protection.

  • Lightweight, easy to use portable water filter removes harmful bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment, and 100% of microplastics; Perfect for outdoor adventures, travel, or emergency preparedness
  • High-performance 0.1 Micron absolute inline filter fits in the palm of your hand and weighs just 2 ounces; 100% of Micro Squeeze units individually tested three times to performance standards by Sawyer
  • Built-in and removable flip top sports cap; spray water straight into mouth or bottle from included pouch; also fits standard water bottles with 28 mm threads
  • Includes two reusable 32-oz, BPA-free collapsible pouches that roll up tightly for easy packing, drinking straw, one set of Sawyer Inline Hydration Pack Adapters for filter, and mesh storage bag
  • Backed by manufacturer's lifetime limited (independent testing laboratory Hydration, LLC.; Microbiological Report S05-03)

User questions & answers

Question: Does it work for salt water
Answer: NO. I relied on the previous answer when I ordered this, and it does not fit on my 1.75" doors. I fits snuggly on a 1.5" width.
Question: Is this filter effective against Giardia and Cryptosporidium
Answer: We do not have any bar extenders to make this product accessible to a younger child
Question: Should mine have come with instructions
Answer: The drop down bar is 9 inches --- the overall length is 23 1/2 inches.
Question: i cant seem to find the weight of the main unit with uut the bag does someone know how much it weighs dry
Answer: My door opens with clothes hanging from it, though on some of my doors it is a bit of a tight squeeze against the upper door jamb. The amount of opening would depend on the clearance between your door at the full open position and the nearest intervening wall. It does extend a full 11” from the door surface when deployed.

Product features

Sawyer Squeeze 0.1 Micron Water Filter with Two Pouches

Whether hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, or traveling abroad, the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System will ensure you have access to clean water in the backcountry or anywhere in the world.

Weighing just 3 ounces, the versatile, award-winning Sawyer Squeeze Filter is incredibly simple to use and fits in the palm of your hand. The two durable, collapsible 32-ounce reusable squeeze pouches roll up when empty, so they won't take up space in your pack or suitcase.

  • Removes 99.99999%* of all bacteria, such as salmonella, cholera, and E.coli
  • Removes 99.9999%* of all protozoa, such as giardia and cryptosporidium
  • Removes 100% of microplastics
  • Filter rated up to 100,000 gallons
  • * Independent testing by Laboratory Hydreion, LLC.; Microbiological Report S05-03
  • † Independent testing by certified authorities Aquadiagnostics Laboratories and Envirotek Laboratories (S1 – 2512B-12512C; S3 – 12514-12514A), 2017

Filtered Water Anywhere

The reusable 0.1 absolute micron Squeeze water filter produces clean water from freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams, as well as faucets in your home or hotel room while traveling (domestic and international).

To start filtering water, simply fill the squeeze pouch with water from your water source, then screw the Squeeze filter onto the pouch and start drinking via the removable flip top cap.

Versatile Hydration

The included adapter kit allows you to install the Squeeze filter inline on your hydration pack (sold separately). Simply fill your reservoir with dirty water and drink safe, clean water through your hydration tube. You can also create a gravity water filtration system using the adapters, included tube/drinking straw, and mesh carrying pouch to hang the Squeeze. The Squeeze filter also screws onto water or soda bottles with a standard threaded top.

Filter Again and Again

The Squeeze filter can be cleaned and reused almost indefinitely with no expensive cartridges to replace… ever.

When water flow begins to diminish, simply perform a backwash to restore up to 98% of the filter’s flow rate and enjoy fresh, clean water wherever you roam.

Sawyer's International Mission

Sawyer believes everyone deserves access to clean water — from hikers in the backcountry to indigenous people groups in the remotest corners of the world.

For over 10 years, Sawyer has been working with a variety of charities and churches who are on a mission to make a long-lasting impact in the lives of those around the world without access to clean drinking water.

Hollow Fiber Membrane

Sawyer’s water filters are comprised of tiny hollow fiber membranes that allow water to enter into their core through tiny micro-pores.

Thicker fiber walls combined with a smaller inner diameter make Sawyer fibers 75% stronger* than typical hollow fiber membranes, giving you a fast flow and enabling the filter to be continually backwashed forcefully to restore up to 98% of the original flow rate.

* Clean Water Institute of Calvin University; July, 2018

1 Absolute Micron Filtering

Each Sawyer water filter features 0.1 micron absolute filtration, meaning there is no pore size larger than 0.1 micron in size.

This makes it nearly impossible for microplastics, harmful bacteria, protozoa, or cysts like E. coli, Giardia, Vibrio cholerae, and Salmonella typhi (which cause Cholera and Typhoid) to pass through.

Fiber Protection

Sawyer's hollow fiber membranes are fully encased and sealed to keep them protected. When fibers are not enclosed, physical damage of exposed fibers could allow harmful pathogens to pass through.

Tested 3 Times

Every Sawyer filter is performance tested three different times during the manufacturing process for your protection.

Testing occurs after the fiber element construction and twice after casing assembly to ensure no harmful pathogens leak through the sealed case or internal O-rings.

Katadyn Hiker Pro Replacement Cartridge

Katadyn

Based on 612 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The SPECS AntiClog technology: 129 square inches of pleated 0.3 micron glassfiber media. Activated carbon core: reduces unpleasant tastes and odor from water. Output: Up to 1 quart (1 liter) per minute or 48 strokes per quart Cartridge Capacity: Up to 200 gallons, depending on water quality

  • Replacement cartidge for Katadyn Hiker and Hiker Pro water filter systems
  • Provides up to 200-gallon capacity (depending on water quality)
  • Removable filter protector extends cartridge life in challenging conditions
  • Glass-fiber element is pleated for increased surface area to handle silt and muddy water

User questions & answers

Question: How do you know when to change the filter? Mine is 10 years old but has been clean and dry and probably done less than 100 gallons. It still seems to work well. Any ideas
Answer: No. The shape is on a cardboard. You can make whatever you want with the fabric.
Question: shelf life of the filter? 10 years?? more
Answer: There is an instruction booklet with patterns and tracing paper. The pattern transfers onto the fabric so you can stitch over it.
Question: What's the most number of gallons anyone is getting out of one of these
Answer: The EZ4 filter is as close to distilled as you can get without getting Reverse Osmosis. I intentionally chose it over RO because it does leave some of the natural minerals in the water. It removes bad stuff folks worry about from their community water. We live in a town that has a well for the water supply and testing shows the water to be safe, but borderline in some areas. The water just does not tasted good. The EZ4 allays all concerns of safety and the water tastes great. Highly recommended.
Question: I have an old PUR hiker. Will this filter fit
Answer: The included EZ-1 filter (according to the manual) states chlorine, class 3 particulates, and Standard 42. ANSI Standard 42 is for chlorine(taste/odor), chloramines, iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, pH neutralization, and zinc reduction. Mercury would fall under Standard 53, which includes heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, mercury, selenium), inorganics (fluoride & nitrate, nitrite) and volatile organic chemicals (chloroform surrogate). For these you need the EZ-3 filter.

Product features

Katadyn Hiker Pro Replacement Cartridge

This replacement filter provides up to 300 gallons of clean drinking water before it needs replacing. A removable filter protector helps extend cartridge life in extreme conditions, and a glass-fiber element boasts an innovative pleated design, increasing surface area for improved filtration of silty or muddy water.

Katadyn Hiker Pro Water Microfilter

Carrying gallons of water isn’t necessary when you have reliable water sources and are carrying this durable 11-ounce water microfilter in your backpack. This field-cleanable Filter Protector Screen extends the life of the cartridge in challenging conditions The 0.2 Micron glass-fiber filter media is designed for high output with little effort. It connects directly to your hydration pack with 1/4” drink tubes and water bottles.

Katadyn Vario Multi Flow Water Microfilter

The Vario Dual Technology Filter technology consists of three filter levels: a high-performance glass fiber filter, a ceramic pre-filter that can be adjusted individually according to the cloudiness of the water, and active charcoal for eliminating odors. Cartridge capacity, up to 530 gallons (2,000 liters), depending on water quality. Cleanable ceramic disc lengthens life of primary microfilter. Replaceable Katadyn carbon core reduces chemicals, pesticides and bad taste in water.

Katadyn Pocket Water Filter

Made of the highest quality construction, this robust water filter is ideal for long lasting continuous use. The filter’s silver impregnated ceramic element is effective against bacteria and protozoa, using a Micro Filtration method. Up to 1 quart (1 liter)/minute Cartridge capacity, up to 13,000 gallons (50,000 liters), depending on water quality. This pocket water filter is a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts and international travelers, and the U.S. Military. 20 Year Warranty.

Optimus Crux Lite Stove with Terra Cook Set

The smallest, most ultra light 3-piece Cook System combines the Crux Lite stove and Solo Cook Set. Set includes: Crux Lite stove (72 g/2.5 oz), 0.6 Liter hard anodized aluminum saucepan with pouring lip and measuring marks, fry pan that doubles as a lid, mesh storage bag and nylon storage bag to store Crux Lite stove. Average boil time is 3 minutes for 1 quart (1 liter) water, depending on climate and/or altitude. The perfect cook system when ultralight and small size are critical.

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