To protect against protozoa bacteria and even viruses there is a wide range of water filtration and purification systems built specifically for backpacking many options on this list are great for day hiking trail running and travel too.
Best hiking water filter system.
A backpacking water filter not purifiers can remove particulates bacteria protozoans giardia cryptosporidium but cannot remove viruses.
Sawyer squeeze 37 this water filter system is the gold standard for many thru hikers and backpackers across the globe.
The best filtration systems can remove chemicals heavy metals and odors using activated carbon embedded in the core of the media.
The katadyn befree water filter can be used as a squeeze filter or hung for group use as a gravity filter if you purchase the 3l version it has a 0 1 micron microfilter that is epa tested to remove protozoa 99 99 and bacteria 99 9999.
Best backpacking water filters of 2020 best overall.
So what is the best backpacking water filter.
One of these methods is a backpacking water filter a physical filtration system whereby pathogens are filtered out of water using mechanical water pressure and a filter.
There are many methods of effective water purification such as boiling chemical uv or physical filtration.
Chlorine dioxide drops pills and sawyer squeeze best value backpacking water filters.
It can filter water up to 2 liters per minute which is very fast for this style of filter.
Everyone exploring the backcountry needs water but staying hydrated is not as simple as drinking straight from streams and lakes.