best travel water filter

The Best Travel Water Filters & Purifiers for Every Budget – Tested & Ranked

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 6th October 2023

If you’re preparing for an international trip abroad, then a travel water filter or purifier bottle should be at the top of your list of essential packing items. 

Not only will you want to avoid getting ill from polluted water sources, but you’re probably also concerned about your environmental impact. A carefully selected water filter can help to solve both of these problems.

But what should you be looking for in a portable water filter and which are the best options on the market? 

I’ve personally trialed multiple portable water filtration and purification systems over the past five years of travel in South America and other parts of the world.

As a result, I’ve been able to identify which are the best for international travel and therefore make an excellent investment for your next trip abroad. 

Click to navigate this article:

Why do you need a travel water filter or purifier? 

Who doesn’t have a story of getting violently ill traveling abroad?

More often than not, it’s the result of untreated water, particularly as waterborne microorganisms are a real problem in developing countries, where poor sanitation can lead to untreated sewage entering drinking water supplies. 

Diseases such as diarrhea , cholera, dysentery, and typhoid can be transmitted through contaminated water and thus make you very, very sick. 

Diarrhea is the most common illness associated with drinking unpurified water. Luckily, there’s an easy solution: bring a portable water purifier with you on your travels, which quickly and easily filters out dirty water, leaving it safe for you to drink. 

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The problem with single-use plastic water bottles

What’s more, relying on bottled water – which is always safe to drink – presents its own problems. Reuters produced graphics to illustrate the scale of the problem , showing how every minute, one million single-use plastic bottles are purchased around the world.

This works out to 1.3 billion bottles per day or 481.6 billion bottles per year.  

Many single-use plastic bottles are widely recyclable. Unfortunately, most aren’t, and instead end up in landfill where they will take at least 450 years to degrade . Yes, seriously. 

Imagine you’re on a one-week international trip and you drink the recommended two liters per day. Each day, you purchase two single-use plastic bottles containing one liter of water; by the end of the week, you’ll have used 14 single-use plastic bottles.

But what if you’re on a two-week trip? Or a month? Or a year? Your environmental impact starts to build up – and so does the cost. 

Why travel water purifiers are a sensible economic choice

If you can expect to spend around $2 USD per day on bottled water, many of the purifiers listed in this guide will see you break even after just a two-week trip or one week if you’re traveling in a pair.

What’s more, your water purifier can be used on every trip you take in the future, making them an environmentally- and budget-conscious piece of travel equipment.

What is the difference between water purifiers and water filters?

Both “purifier” and “filter” are thrown around a lot, but did you know they actually have a crucial difference? 

Water filters – such as those like Brita filters you might find in your home – can remove impurities such as small particles and unpleasant odors such as chlorine (which is often used to kill micro-organisms in the water to ensure that it’s safe to drink in the first place). 

This type of system removes waterborne protozoa (parasites such as Giardia and cryptosporidium oocysts ) and bacteria (single-celled organisms such as E. Coli and salmonella). 

However, water filters are unable to remove some of the most dangerous impurities in the water: viruses.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, viruses such as rotavirus and norovirus are the smallest of all waterborne disease-causing microorganisms and can pass through filters with pore sizes of between 0.1 and 0.4.

Therefore, if a purifier has a membrane larger than this, viruses are not caught by the filter and instead pass right through with the water itself.

Water purification , on the other hand, removes all three of these classes of microbes and therefore provides complete protection to the drinker – thus stopping you from getting ill. 

Which type of travel water purifier do you need? 

It can feel like a herculean task when faced with the variety of travel water purifiers on the market to identify which is best for you and the type of international travel that you do. 

Add into the mix the range of prices, sizes, and exactly what they safely remove from the water, and you can be left feeling completely perplexed. 

To make things simple, water purification systems can be broken down into the following types of products:

Which water purifiers for international travel exist on the market?

There’s a wide range of different options available at different price points and for different styles of travel. 

I have personally trialed all of the water purifiers listed – except for two as indicated – and vouch for their effectiveness based upon this. 

UV water purifiers: Steripen Adventurer

Trialed by me: yes

The only portable UV water purifier on this list, the Steripen Adventurer kills all bacteria, viruses, and parasites found in water and does so almost in the blink of an eye. Seriously. 

It looks a bit like a pen that you dip into a bottle full of untreated water. At the click of a button, you begin to “stir” the water using the Steripen and in just 90 seconds, you’ve purified a liter of water.

A light on the body of the device lets you know exactly when to stop stirring and whether the water has been successfully purified or not. 

To use the Steripen Adventurer, you need to buy your own wide-mouthed water bottle to use with the purifier (I’ve found the Nalgene water bottle to be an ideal size for this), meaning you can ensure that you have enough water for a day’s hike or drive if you fill up a couple of water bottles. 

It’s also handy if you’re sightseeing around a city and don’t want to purify loads of water in one go; just purify a small amount, ask for your bottle to be filled up from the tap in a restaurant, and purify the water you need. 

It’s also the lightest portable water purification system on this list, weighing in at only 70g – although you will need to have your own water bottle at hand. 

Some reviewers have claimed issues with the battery and that it has failed at crucial moments; I have not personally faced any such issues during my four years of ownership. 

Things to consider about the Steripen Adventurer

The main negative about the Steripen Adventurer is the fact that the batteries it requires are really, really weird (like seriously, I’ve never seen them before) and saw me buying a large box of them from Amazon (and of which I’ve used about four because the batteries do seem to last forever). 

Secondly, it is a delicate piece of kit with the UV light easy enough to break if you don’t take care of it – although this isn’t an issue that I have faced.

Thirdly, you cannot use the Steripen for murky water as suspended soil particles in the water can shield microorganisms from the UV light, thus preventing them from being killed in the process. 

Therefore, if you plan on backpacking a lot on your trip or taking water from backcountry water sources that could have been contaminated by humans, this isn’t a great option for you. 

Finally, it’s also one of the most expensive of the water purification systems available (coming in a tiny bit cheaper than the Grayl). However, in my experience, you get what you pay for. 

Check out my full review here: Why the Steripen Adventurer is the best backpacking water purifier .

I’ve personally used the Steripen Adventurer for close to five years and find it the most convenient and easy-to-use travel water filter for travel on the market.

90 seconds is all you need to purify a one-liter bottle of water and remove protozoa, bacteria, and viruses, leaving water that is perfectly safe for you to drink immediately. 

It’s ideal for using with contaminated tap water in developing countries but not a great choice for backcountry hiking because it can’t filter out sediment.

Independent tests have also shown that the quality of the water that is filtered is not as good as the Grayl Geopress. 

Buy the Steripen Adventurer Opti on Amazon or buy the newer Steripen Ultra UV on REI

Bottle water purifiers: LifeStraw Go

Trialed by me: no

The LifeStraw Go is often touted by backpackers as the best water filter for traveling abroad because of its ease of use and accessible cost.

This is a bottle water purifier, which means that you fill the bottle up, re-insert the straw filter, and then suck through it. The water is purified as it travels up and into your mouth. 

The process is therefore instantaneous, requiring no time, planning, or effort on your part. 

Inside the filter cartridge itself, activated carbon removes unpleasant chlorine or other odors from the water.

It also comes with a carabiner clip so that you can easily attach it to your bag while out sightseeing in a city or to your rucksack when you’re on the trail. 

Things to consider about the LifeStraw Go

However, there’s a big but for any travelers. 

The LifeStraw Go doesn’t remove viruses from the water. While the company doesn’t actually claim it will, I honestly didn’t know this vital piece of information until I started researching this article. 

As a water filter bottle so regularly recommended to backpackers, this is a crucial bit of information that lots of people seem to have missed. 

Tap water in developing countries (and all across South America where I’ve traveled) is rife with viruses; throughout this continent and the world in general, 1 in 3 people (that’s 2.2 million people) don’t have access to safe, clean drinking water according to the World Health Organisation and UNICEF . 

Therefore, the LifeStraw Go leaves you open to stomach upsets and other serious illnesses.  

What’s more, you will need to replace the cartridge in this purifier on a regular basis if you plan to use it long-term on a trip.

The manufacturers recommend every three months – and you’ll know when it’s time to replace the bottle as it’ll start becoming increasingly more difficult to suck water through the straw.

This is costly (effectively the price of buying a brand new LifeStraw Go), so is definitely something to consider. 

A friend of mine who reviewed this product for me also mentioned how the filter is prone to leak when placed in direct sunlight or when it’s at altitude.

On the place she had an incident where the bottle leaked, leaving her seat wet for the entirety of her flight, which isn’t exactly ideal. 

The LifeStraw Go doesn’t remove viruses so isn’t safe for day-to-day travel use in developing countries where tap water isn’t safe to drink. 

A lot of people ask which is better, the Grayl or the Lifestraw Go, but it’s not even a fair contest as they’re aimed at different things (read my Grayl Geopress review below to learn more).

Instead, this is a great water filter bottle for hiking in backcountry destinations where the river water is unlikely to have been tampered with. It’s affordable and easy to use. 

Buy the Lifestraw Go on REI or Amazon

Bottle water purifiers: Water to Go

The Water to Go is another water purifier bottle.

When I first came across this brand, I was really impressed with the price of their products. This is a top water purifier as it’s one of the cheapest models on the market and can filter all of the nasties that you don’t want to have in the water: bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, as well as filtering out heavy metals such as lead and other harmful chemicals. 

It’s also designed to make sure that the water tastes good; inside the filter cartridge are activated carbon particles to reduce any unpleasant taste or odors in the water. 

If you buy it on Amazon, it comes with a replacement filter, which you’ll likely need after three months of use, while additional replacement filters are relatively affordable at around only $13 USD a pop.

Things to consider about the Water to Go

While the Water to Go is probably up there as the best filtered water bottle for international travel, there are some downsides.

Many users have reported that the bottle does leak if it isn’t kept completely upright – which is a bit of an issue if you’re using this water filter bottle for travel, as keeping a bottle upright is nigh on impossible.

Some reviews have also noted how it’s not a very durable water filtration bottle, so you’ll want to make sure that you don’t drop it (the Grayl Geopress, below, is a far sturdier alternative). 

With the larger bottle, it’s also hard to see how much water you have remaining as the plastic is opaque (the smaller 500ml bottle is clear so you can see this), which can be annoying. The black design isn’t great for hot countries anyway as it causes the water to heat up rapidly. 

For me, the bottle is a little on the small side (I don’t like to travel without a one-liter water bottle), particularly as it can be hard to get the final hundred milliliters from the bottom of the bottle – so capacity is never fully 750ml. 

This isn’t designed to be a squeeze purifier (check the Sawyer Mini below instead for that), so you can’t use it to purify water into a glass – instead, you’ll be drinking from the water bottle throughout.

If this is a game changer for you, I’d recommend the Steripen Adventurer instead.  

This is among the cheapest and most affordable portable travel water purifiers and delivers with speed, capacity, and ease of use. It’s also significantly lighter than the comparable LifeStraw Go and has a slightly larger capacity. 

However, you’ll want to keep it upright to avoid leaks and I would avoid the black design if you want to keep your water cool. 

Buy the Water To Go on Amazon

Squeeze purifiers: Sawyer Mini

The Sawyer Mini is the cheapest and one of the most lightweight water purifiers on this list.

Like the Steripen Adventurer, you can filter water in advance as you squeeze dirty water from the provided container through the filter and into your own bottle. 

It also should last a lifetime, with no need to replace the filter cartridge – at all. This is because you can flush the filter out using the small syringe that comes with the filter.

This is the only filter on the list that should never require replacing and, for the price, this makes the Sawyer Mini incredibly hard to beat in many respects.

You can also link it up to a hydration bladder such as the Platypus and suck the water directly from the bladder through the filter. Similar to the LifeStraw Go, this does require some effort because of the resistance provided by the filter. 

Things to consider about the Sawyer Mini

However, as with the LifeStraw Go above, the Sawyer Mini doesn’t remove viruses from the water.

Therefore, it’s really only recommended for backcountry hiking trips with reasonably clean and reliable water sources, rather than something to use when you’re traveling through developing countries and drinking tap water that’s potentially contaminated with waterborne viruses.  

I also found this pretty hard to use for one main reason: the bag tears pretty easily if you’re not super careful when you’re squeezing.

This is something that the manufacturers highlight as being an issue (and subsequently, you should be more careful) but was a real deal-breaker for me and the main reason that I opted instead for the Steripen Adventurer . 

I also found that, because of the degree of care you needed, the whole process takes a lot more time than it needs to (around two minutes, and a lot of pressure, for a liter of water).

This isn’t helped by the fact that the filter cartridge can clog easily and you need to backflush the system using the provided syringe to enable it to work again. 

On balance, neither my dad or my brother have faced similar issues when using the Sawyer Mini and it has rapidly become my dad’s water purification system of choice.

That said, if you’re just starting out with the Sawyer Mini, you’ll want to invest in a couple of spare bags in case you do spring a leak. 

This is a great little water purifier at a supremely accessible price, but the fact that it doesn’t filter out viruses means that it’s not ideal for travel.

Instead, this is probably the best water filtration system for backpacking and backcountry hiking, but only in areas where the water sources are unlikely to be polluted with waterborne viruses. 

Sawyer has just recently launched their new Select Water Purifiers and Filters range, with the S3 range aimed toward international travel as it removes bacteria, protozoa, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals (including pesticides).

It’s a lot more expensive than the Sawyer Mini (coming in at a similar price to the Steripen and Grayl) but looks like it could be an excellent alternative. 

If you’ve tried this new product, please let me know your experiences!

Buy the Sawyer Mini water filter on REI or Amazon

Press purifiers: Grayl Geopress

The Grayl Geopress is a very different type of water purifier from those discussed above.

It’s a bottle that you fill with water, before inserting the filter cartridge and pressing down, thus forcing the water through the cartridge in one swift movement.

It’s a really popular bit of gear for travelers because it does eliminate all bacteria, protozoa, and viruses, meaning it’s a reliable source of fresh and safe drinking water. 

What’s more, the Grayl Geopress has a capacity of 710 ml, which is comparable with all of the bottle water filters available on the market.

Finally, the water bottle itself is the most durable of those in this guide and you can guarantee that dropping this bottle isn’t going to cause serious harm to the filter. It also won’t leak, even if it’s stored upside down. 

Things to consider about the Grayl Geopress

However, my biggest issue with using the Grayl Geopress is how small the capacity of the bottle is. 

While they claim that it filters 710 ml, I found this to be less because of the dribble of water at the bottom of the bottle that ends up being out of reach of the cartridge and therefore doesn’t get purified. 

What’s more, I’ve found that the act of pressing the water through the filter genuinely starts to hurt my hand after a while. You need some serious guns (US readers: muscles!) to work this filter and it can feel like a bit of an ordeal to be doing this multiple times per day. 

It can also get extremely tough to press if the water has lots of sand or silt in it, so you’ll probably want to try and pre-filter this (a handkerchief or similar piece of cloth can be useful for this). 

Note that at altitude, I’ve also found that the filter cartridge starts trying to remove itself from the bottle due to the pressure, which caused some leaking. Therefore to avoid this, you may want to ensure that it’s not completely filled before you fly. 

The Grayl Geopress left my hands hurting, however, independent testing has proven that it provides some of the cleanest water post-purification, blowing the Steripen Adventurer out of the water.

What’s more, it can filter water containing particulates, so can be used in practically any context and still guarantee safe drinking water in a matter of minutes. This makes it an ideal option as a water filter for traveling abroad. 

Issues remain in the fact that it doesn’t have space for that much water and it’s really heavy, which is the compromise for the quality of the purification system inside. 

Buy the Grayl Geopress on REI , Backcountry or Amazon

Gravity purifiers: Sawyer One-Gallon Gravity Filtration System

Sawyer’s One-Gallon Gravity Filtration System is basically a one-gallon bag attached to the Sawyer Mini. You hang the bag in a tree or off your pack and watch as gravity pushes the water through the Sawyer Mini and into your receptacle of choice. 

Because gravity, rather than your hands, is doing all the work, this version of the Sawyer is a lot more durable. Additionally, the Sawyer Mini filter that comes with it has the same long lifespan – 100,000 gallons of water or, what the manufacturers claim is equivalent to a lifetime of water. 

This is a great option if there are a number of you on a trip, as you can quickly and easily filter water for cooking or drinking. 

Things to consider about the Sawyer One-Gallon Gravity Filtration System

However, as with the Sawyer Mini, this water purification system doesn’t filter viruses, so isn’t ideal for travel.

I saw some guys using one on the O Circuit in Torres del Paine and it was great for this type of situation: the water sources in the park are largely uncontaminated by humans or chemicals, so the water just needed filtering for sediment. 

Again, the Sawyer One-Gallon Gravity Filtration System doesn’t filter viruses, so isn’t a good choice for general travel. However, like the Sawyer Mini, it’s a great outdoor water filtration system for backpacking and backcountry hiking, particularly if you’re travelling in a group. 

Buy the Sawyer One-Gallon Gravity Filtration System on Amazon

Chemical water purification

Perhaps the most widely-used means of purifying water is through chemicals such as iodine or chlorine.

Tablets or drops can be bought at a very inexpensive price and need to just be added to the water you are trying to purify.

That said, you do need to wait from 30 minutes to four hours before it is safe to drink the water. 

Iodine purification tablets and drops don’t purify water from cryptosporidium oocysts and they can also leave the water with an unpleasant taste, although this can be circumnavigated with the help of additional tablets that neutralize the flavor. 

Chemical water purification tablets or drops are the ideal backup for any of the other methods identified in this guide. However, they are not a great solution for travel, particularly as you’ll want clean, drinkable water available at a moment’s notice. 

Get water purification tablets on REI , Backcountry or Amazon

If you’re traveling and don’t have access to any water filtration system, boiling is the most reliable method of acquiring safe drinking water. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s necessary to boil water for one minute to ensure that all waterborne microorganisms are killed. 

However, in my experience, if there’s no kettle where you’re staying (something very common in South America), then it can take a long time to boil a few liters of water. 

You also need to do this in advance (this method doesn’t allow you to purify while you’re out and about), while the pan you boil water in can leave an unpleasant metallic taste in your water. 

Boiling water is a last-resort option for acquiring safe drinking water and one that, while functional, can take time and result in metallic-flavored water. 

I personally think investing in a water purifier is worth the cost for its ease of use and is the best way to get clean drinking water when you’re traveling abroad. 

Which is the best travel water filter for international travel?

The best travel water purifier for simplicity: I personally prefer the Steripen as I’ve found this the fastest and most reliable method of treating tap water throughout South America.

Not only can you purify one liter of water in 90 seconds, but this also requires practically no effort on your part. 

The Steripen Adventurer removes everything from bacteria to protozoa and viruses making potentially contaminated water fit to drink. You need your own water bottle in addition to the filter itself, but I’ve found this to be a reliable little device, which is also highly portable, lightweight and small. 

Buy the Steripen Adventurer Opti on REI or Amazon

The best travel water purifier for every single circumstance: However, the Grayl Geopress comes a close second in the contest for finding the best travel water filter, despite a couple of reservations I have about the product.

This is because it removes practically everything from the water, including chemicals, hard metals, and microplastics and it even works with water containing particulates – something that the Steripen Adventurer isn’t capable of doing. 

The downside to the Grayl Geopress is the size and weight of the bottle and filter, which may put you off, but are something you can overlook in order to be guaranteed safe drinking water wherever you are on the road. 

Looking for more recommendations for travel and backcountry hiking? Find out why the Big Agnes is my go-to lightweight tent and read my recommendations for what to pack for South America and hiking hotspot, Patagonia .

Saturday 25th of November 2023

Hi. Thank you for this valuable information. Can I please ask you a question, and thanks in advance if you can help :)

I plan on doing a year backpacking and hiking in South America next year, so I need something that works 100% on everything - bacteria, viruses, protozoa, floating particles. It looks like the Geopress is the only option that ticks all of these boxes, am I right? As you mentioned, the Geopress is heavy/bulky, so is not ideal for my situation as I need to be fairly lightweight.

In my case, what would you recommend? Would it be a good idea to use a Sawyer Squeeze, and have some purification tables to remove the potential viruses?

Steph Dyson

Tuesday 28th of November 2023

Hi Aidan, I travelled across South America just using my steripen and didn't get ill. If you want the belt and braces approach, the Geopress is the best option. I wouldn't use purification tablets as they make the water taste awful. Steph

Friday 4th of August 2023

None of what you covered will prevent sickness in New Guinea. All of those items were good but it was the food not water that caused the problems in Port Moresby. I was sick the entire time until I went over to Rabaul on the other side of the country. Before I left the US I bought several of those items like the Lifestraw and grayl geopress. after 4 years of traveling in 32 country's I left them behind to lighten the bags. I mostly just found it easier to treat the reactions by traveling with pepto all the time. Or gaviscon in AU and nz. Even when I was a otr driver in the USA it was always the food not the water that caused the issues.

Wednesday 20th of September 2023

Hi Vance, the issue with food is typically as a result of the water being used (salad often makes people sick because of it being washed in water that has bacteria or viruses). Steph

Ryan Sainthill

Friday 21st of July 2023

Great article, I appreciate it! Thank you very much. I found out one filter but it is a bit bigger, so can anyone share some information with me if it is good to use this filter for walking or to buy another one? https://www.aussiestormshop.com.au/lifestraw-peak-series-1l-filter

Thursday 7th of April 2022

I love my Grayl! Great for foreign travel, I fill up with tap water, etc. all the time. Less worries about bottled water, as I found sometimes the hotel can be a little stingy. :) No issues pressing it, I just set it down and lean on it a bit. I don't try to hold and force it. A little heavy for backpacking, but I take it anyway. I carry a 1l. bladder and a couple of presses fills it up as well.

Friday 22nd of April 2022

Great, thanks for sharing! It's definitely one of the best options! Steph

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

I was very surprised to see your comment that LifeStraw doesn't remove viruses... as my research told me otherwise. I just double checked their website. They claim:

LifeStraw’s membrane ultrafilters are capable of removing 99.999% (log 5) of viruses, 99.999999% (log 8) of bacteria (including E. coli), 99.999% (log 5) of parasites (Giardia, Cryptosporidium, etc.), and 99.999% (log 5) of microplastics.

https://lifestraw.com/pages/how-our-products-work#:~:text=LifeStraw%20Membrane%20Ultrafilters%20%2F%20Purifiers&text=LifeStraw's%20membrane%20ultrafilters%20are%20capable,(log%205)%20of%20microplastics.

So not sure where your information is coming from, but this definitely gives me pause and I will do more research to confirm before buying.

Monday 20th of February 2023

@paul, hello - on their detail data sheet info, it’s just the PURIFIERS listed that remove viruses [Lifestraw “Mission”, “Family” and “Community” product items]. The other Lifestraw products on that page are FILTERS and they do not remove viruses [“Lifestraw”, “Lifestraw Go, Play, Universal, Steel” and “Lifestraw Flex” ]. [pardon my emphasis with the caps but it helps me to keep it straight]. Here’s the URL: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2631/0778/t/4/assets/LSGo-Play-Universal-SteelEvidenceDossier-1544005030340.pdf?9890004779047419701

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

@paul, I just checked your link and checked on their webpage too, and it doesn't say anything about virues. I was looking into it too as I would be interested if it removes viruses as well

8 Travel-Friendly Water Purifiers That Actually Work

By Kaitlyn McInnis

It’s easy to take water for granted when you live and work in a building that has clean drinking water running in abundance from every faucet—but that’s not always the case when traveling abroad or heading out into nature while camping or hiking.

I learned that the hard way when I spent three months in a cabin in the woods that ran on lake water. I subscribe to the eight-cups-a-day rule, and I have an emotional support water bottle that I carry from room-to-room at all times. I am, simply put, a big water drinker . And sure, I was able to drive to the grocery store to buy water—but finding a water purifying solution that allowed me to drink the lake water was much more convenient, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly than having to add gallons of drinking water to my grocery list.

Over the last month or so, I’ve tried a handful of different water purifiers and filtration systems at my cabin on the lake . Of all the styles I tested, there were eight that I will continue to use on future trips to the woods and bring with me on my next vacation abroad . Read on for the best high-quality portable water purifiers and filters to ensure you always have access to bacteria- and sediment-free drinking water on the go.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Larq PureVis water bottle

Best water bottle

The Larq self-cleaning bottle is by far my favorite portable water purifier that I’ve tried so far. The 17-ounce water bottle features unique UV-C LED technology that neutralizes 99.999 percent of harmful bacteria such as E-coli and salmonella in under 60 seconds at the push of a button. The stainless steel bottle also activates a self-cleaning mode every two hours which helps to keep the bottle itself from developing that dreaded musty water bottle smell that can occur over time. Despite its high-tech functionalities, you can drink out of it like you would any other water bottle; the UV technology is confined to the bottle cap and does not interfere with filling or drinking from the bottle itself.

LifeStraw personal water filter

Best straw filter

Sometimes carrying around a water bottle or water filtration system is just not practical—which is where the LifeStraw comes in. This compact personal water filter works as a regular drinking straw while instantly filtering out over 99.999 percent of bacteria, parasites, and sediment such as microplastics, silt, sand, and cloudiness. The compact straw and filtration has an unlimited shelf life and can easily slip into your handbag or backpack for emergency use . Use it to take a sip straight from a flowing stream or drink a glass of tap water from the faucet in your hotel room.

Sawyer Squeeze water filter system

Best for backpacking

Lightweight and easy to transport, the Sawyer Squeeze water filter system will be your best bet if you’re setting up camp in the woods but are trying to keep your load light. The hollow-fiber membrane filter removes more than 99.999 percent of all bacteria, viruses, and parasites at a rate of about one liter per minute—but we particularly like this system for its compact and easy-to-use squeeze bottle design. All you have to do is fill up the pouch with water, attach the hollow-fiber filter, and squeeze the water through the system into your preferred water bottle (or even directly into your mouth).

Platypus GravityWorks water filter system

Best for large quantities of water

The GravityWorks water filter system is my personal favorite for filtering large volumes of sediment-heavy water. The water filtration system works—as the name suggests—by using a combination of gravity and microfilters to ensure removal of up more than 99.99 percent of bacteria and parasites as well as any sand, dirt, or sediment that can often appear in lake or stream water.

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Katadyn Steripen Classic 3 UV water purifier

Best multi-purpose purifier

The Katadyn Steripen Classic 3 UV is a hand-held water purification device made to destroy everything from parasites to bacteria and viruses in less than 90 seconds thanks to the built-in ultraviolet (UV-C) light rays. The handy device easily fits over cups, mugs, and even most water bottle mouths for added convenience and comes with a pre-filter for removing sentiment, microplastics, and other particles that might not be visible to the naked eye. Bring it on family or group camping trips where you can divvy up who carries what.

Potable Aqua water purification tablets

Best tablets for groups or families

The Potable Aqua water purification tablet is a great option for purifying large quantities of water to have on hand over a weekend at a lake house or campsite. The two-step process helps to eliminate waterborne bacteria and viruses in up to half a gallon of water per germicidal iodine tablet. The second bottle is a neutralizing tablet, which, although not necessary to ensure safety, helps to improve the overall flavor of the water so you don’t taste the remnants of iodine or anything else that might be floating in the water.

Aquatabs water purification tablets

Best tablets for individuals

Looking for something ultra-compact to throw into your emergency preparedness kit, wallet, or jacket pocket? Aquatabs Water Purification Tablets are extremely small and slender (we’re talking half the size of a credit card ), but despite the compact size, the powerhouse purification system can remove up to 99.99 percent of bacteria and viruses from half a gallon of water per tablet thanks to the neutralizing salt-based chlorine known as sodium dichloroisocyanurate.

Larq PureVis pitcher

Best pitcher

The Larq PureVis pitcher isn’t quite as portable as other options I’ve tested out, but it’s the best option for setting up in the kitchen during a long-term stay abroad or at a Airbnb in the woods . The water-purifying pitcher removes contaminants like bacteria, lead, mercury, pharmaceuticals, and VOCs while the innovative self-cleaning filter helps to prevent bio-contaminant growth from developing within the pitcher itself.

7 Best Travel Water Filters & Purifiers (8 Factors Compared)

Concerned about safe water while traveling? This post will help. In this article, you’ll learn how to choose the best portable water filter or travel purifier for your trip (including the 8 features to consider).

And I shortlist the 7 best water filters for travel (and the best expat water purifier).

These purifiers get rid of parasites, bacteria, protozoa, and viruses harmful to humans. Those surprise little nasties in the water are the main reason travelers get sick each year, especially in countries without clean drinking water or the infrastructure to treat their water.

Best Portable Water Filter for Travel

Bottled water, portable water purification, or water filtration device? The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune daily on bottled water.

2 Top Picks: Travel Water Filters

Before we get to the full guide and all the specifics, here are our top picks. If you don’t want the backstory – and just our recommendations – here they are.

Please note: to remove protozoa, bacteria, and viruses you’ll need both a filter (like the Lifestraw bottle) and a purifier (like the Steripen UV water purifier).

• Steripen UV Water Purifier  (Use any bottle): This is great for travel. Charges via USB, up to 50 treatments per charge. Use any bottle or dish. This is a must to ensure that all contaminants – including viruses are removed.

Okay, so now back to the post:

Why not use bottled water? Bottled water is expensive, heavy, and can be hard to find if you are traveling long distances, especially in remote areas. Having to stop to look for little stores along the way can be frustrating to you and everyone else, or when traveling in remote areas there may not be stores.

First things first, let’s get started with the basic differences between a portable water filter and a portable water purifier and go from there.

What is safe drinking water?

Safe drinking water is free of protozoa, parasites, bacteria, and viruses making it safe for human consumption. In other words, you won’t get sick when you drink the water.

Water Filters vs Water Purifiers

In the past, travelers either had to boil water or use harsh chemical treatments that left a gross taste in their mouths.

While both options are still good, some ways are faster and free of chemicals.

Difference between water filter and water purifier?

The main difference is in the level of protection. There are 3 classes of microbes to be concerned about. Only water purifiers remove/kill them all.

• Water filters remove protozoa and bacteria. They clean the water by removing particles, protozoa, parasites, and even bacteria. They filter it to make clean drinking water by also removing grit, floating particles, and debris so it looks clearer and more palatable. But, because viruses are so minuscule they can slip through the microfilters, even the tiniest ones of .02 microns.
• Water purifiers remove protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. Water purifiers take it to the next level by purifying the water which means eliminating parasites, protozoa, and bacteria like a filter does but also killing or deactivating viruses so they cannot make you sick.

So, why would anyone choose a filter if it doesn’t get rid of viruses?

• Filter: You might choose a water filter if you’re traveling in the country you’re from . If you’re used to the water, know that it is clean, and are more concerned about flavor then a filter might be all that’s needed.
• Purifier: But when visiting a new country where you’re not used to the water, it’s a good idea to take some form of purification with you. Not only may the water be contaminated – but your system isn’t used to the local microbes which could make you sick . You can make the water safe with UV light, purification tablets, or actual water purifiers.

Now let’s discuss the different types of portable filters and purifiers you can take with you on your trip.

3 Types of Water Purifiers

Water purifiers come in all shapes and sizes. The best ones for travel are made of lightweight but durable plastic with metal or ceramic filters and are generally light enough to slip into your luggage or backpack.

A UV light or purifying tablets are also good backups and worth taking along as well when traveling to a country with unsafe drinking water.

You have three choices for making your water safe to drink:

• Portable water purifier
• Portable water filter
• Water filter in conjunction with purifying tablets or UV light.

*Just remember if you are opting for the purification tablets, try one before you leave on your trip because they can have a chemical taste in your mouth. It’s better to know before you go just in case you aren’t willing to put up with the taste.

What it Needs to Have

A microfilter (.02 microns) that will remove just about everything is the first thing you need to make sure it has.

Some filters are only designed to remove particles from drinkable tap water and have a much larger filter that will not stop bacteria or protozoa so be sure to check that no matter which purification system you choose, its filters are small enough.

7 Ways to Clean Water 

1. filtration straws.

• Pros:  Extremely portable, it hangs around your neck or straps onto your backpack’s shoulder strap and is so lightweight you don’t even know it’s there. They have a very high flow rate and good filtration.
• Cons: You have to get right down close to the water’s surface to put the straw directly into the water and suck, just like a normal straw. This may be uncomfortable or not possible in some cases depending on the water source. It also means you can’t filter a bottle to take with you for later, you can only drink directly from the source.

2. Water Filtration Pump

Another great advantage is that its hose can reach down into a stream, river or other water source.

• Pros: Easy to use, compact, high-flow, capable of filling hydration packs, water bottle storage containers.
• Cons: If the first line becomes dirty it can contaminate the second line so make sure to clean and stow your device properly. Also, have a way to flush it with clean water if it does get contaminated before starting again.

3. Gravity Fed Water Filter

They have made great advances in this arena and now a 2L bag can be filtered in about 3-5 minutes filling water bottles , hydration packs, and additional containers quickly.

• Pros: Can usually filter a large volume of water great for family camping.
• Cons: It is larger and more cumbersome so not really a great option for backpacking or international travel.

4. Squeezable Water Filter Pouches

Making straws more versatile, they allow you to fill the pouch directly from the source and then filter it into your water bottle or hydration pack. They are lightweight and easy to pack, taking up very little room.

• Pros: Easy to use, quick to fill, versatile allowing you to fill any type of water container, bottle, or hydration pack.
• Cons: Bursting, tearing, or splitting can happen so make sure to have a couple of backups when traveling. It’s not like you will be able to run to the nearest store and buy another one in a remote area.

5. Water Bottle with Filter

• Pros: Portable, attached to the exterior of your backpack or bag for accessibility and they are sturdy and generally able to withstand a few knocks and drops. Plus, they are easy to use, just fill and go.
• Cons:  If you are going to an area where the water has a higher degree of contamination than in North America or Canada for example, which is where these are designed for, they may not eliminate viruses.

It’s easy to drop a purification tablet in half an hour before you are planning to drink or zap it with a UV light to eradicate viruses and anything else that may be in the water.

6. UV Sterilizer Light

It is recommended to filter your water first to remove floating particles and debris to ensure the greatest effectiveness possible. It’s easily packed in your luggage and most are rechargeable so you don’t have to travel with batteries.

• Pros:  Total package destroying viruses as well as all other nasties that may make you sick. It is a purifier, not a filter.
• Cons: The main problem with a UV purifier is that if the water has a lot of floating particles in it, it is not as effective. Purifiers won’t clear particles from the water so if you are not filtering your water first, it can get a little gritty.

7. Purification Tablets

We do recommend that you try one before you leave on a trip because if you don’t like the taste when adding it to your drinkable tap water at home, then chances are you will hate it when using it out in the field. These are easy to use, just add them to your water bottle and give it about 35 minutes to do its work.

• Pros: Easy to travel with, just one small bottle, cheap, long-lasting.
• Cons: You may not like the taste and in colder temperatures, chemicals can take a lot longer to become effective. If traveling at higher altitudes or in lower temperatures be sure to allow extra time for them to work.

More reading: How much water to drink while backpacking

How to Choose a Travel Water Filter : 8 Factors

Is it your primary water source while trekking through remote areas? Or, is it to make tap water drinkable as you go from hotel to hotel and will probably buy water along the way or have it supplied in your room daily?

Depending on the type of traveling you will be doing, here are eight things to consider before making your purchase so you find the one that meets your needs.

• Size: Compact is key for travel. How much room you have in your luggage or backpack to allocate for a water purification system has a big impact on the type of purifier you buy.
• Lifespan: Especially when traveling through countries without safe drinking water, you want something durable that is built to last. Something hardy enough that it won’t get damaged in transit, while you are traveling and if it will stand up to a few knocks.
• Cost: This is a biggy. How much is not getting sick worth? Just imagine picking up a parasite or getting sick during your trip and being rushed to a hospital where you hope your travel insurance will cover everything. Is it worth the extra $50 to get the purification system you want and know will keep you safe? You can buy a good filtration system and use a UV pen or tablets in conjunction to make 100% safe drinkable water which may work out cheaper.
• Weight: For all international travel there are weight restrictions on luggage. You want small, as lightweight as possible but still good enough that it does the trick. If you are trekking and having to lug your backpack around daily then weight is a huge factor.
• Durability:  Look for filtration and purification devices that can take a knock without breaking. Ideally, you want something with as little interior componentry as possible. The more complicated it is, the more that can go wrong. Plus, if you are reaching down from a riverbank and slip and drop it, you want to have confidence that it will survive a small fall.
• Replacement filter availability/cost:  No matter which device you choose to take with you, making sure you have a couple of spare filters is wise. In South America when you are touring around, chances are you won’t be able to find replacements easily.
• Flow Rate:  If you’ve just climbed a mountain to get photos of that amazing scenic view, then you’ll want a drink in between all the huffing and puffing. You won’t want to wait half an hour for it to filter enough so be sure to check the flow rate before you buy. High-flow = good.
• Filter Capacity / Ease of Use: All filtration and purification devices will clearly state how many liters or gallons you are expected to get from each of the filter’s lifespans before you need to replace them.

*Ceramic filters are not recommended for travel as they add weight and are more fragile, sometimes shattering if dropped. If traveling from Point A to Point B, they can be packed to travel safe.

7 Best Portable Filters and Purifiers

1. lifestraw personal water filter.

Check the current price on Amazon or LifeStraw

Capable of filtering 4,000 liters (1,000 gallons) just remove the caps and place one end in the water to drink. The water comes through clean tasting because it doesn’t use any chemicals so your water is cleaner and fresh. Meets the US EPA and NSF water filtration standards.

2. Katadyn Vario Water Filter

Check the current price on Amazon or NRS

Produces 2 quarts per minute in the faster flow mode. Replaceable carbon core keeps water tasting fresh, and reduces chemicals, toxins, and odors. The adapter base attaches directly to a standard 32oz  Nalgene water bottle opening.

3. Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System

Extremely versatile, it is easily used as a straw, or by attaching a squeeze pouch to filter drinking water into a bottle or hydration pack. You can also drink the water from the squeeze pouch directly by just attaching the straw to drink on the go.

Check the current price on Amazon or REI

It also attaches to most standard water bottles, so if you did have to buy a bottle of water, you can recycle that plastic water bottle by filling it and attaching the straw to drink through.

4. Lifestraw Go Water Bottles

Check the current price on Amazon or Target

It’s recommended to change the carbon filter after 100 liters so if you are traveling for a long time make sure to pack a spare.

5. Steripen Ultra UV Pen Purifier

Check the current price on Amazon

Able to purify a liter of water in 90 seconds this purification device can handle purifying 50 liters of water with one charge before being easily recharged via laptop USB, wall socket or portable solar panel if you’re in remote areas. Capable of over 300 charges in its lifetime, that equals 15,000 liters of clean drinkable water.

6. Potable Agua Water Purification Tablets

Check the current price on Amazon or Bass Pro

It needs time to sterilize anything that water may hold and make it safe to drink. These are a cheap, easy-to-travel way of making questionable water safe.

7. MSR Guardian Purifier

It has been tested in the most unsanitary of water sources and proven 100% safe removing all viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and parasites to leave tasty clean, clear drinkable water.

Worth the extra money if it is your only source of drinking water trekking through remote areas. More reading: How to safely purify river water for drinking

Best Expat Water Filter: Travel Berkey

The Travel Berkey holds 1.5 gallons and can filter almost 3 gallons per hour. It removes bacteria, chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and pharmaceuticals.

Check the current price on Amazon.

The replaceable filters last for 6000 gallons. The Berkey is available in 4 larger sizes (up to 6 gallons). Just be sure to see what will fit in your luggage.

We used a countertop water filter while living in Ecuador. And we still have a Berkey on our counter here in Canada.

What is potable water?

Water that is safe to drink or use in food preparation and cooking.

Once you have filtered or purified water to remove anything that may be harmful to humans, it is classed as potable water.

Here’s more about determining safe drinking water.

What do water filters remove from the water?

They remove debris, particles that cloud the water, bacteria, protozoa, parasites and anything else above .02 microns. This means even puddle water can come out crystal clear.

Just remember, a filter doesn’t remove viruses so zap it with a UV pen once it’s filtered and you’re good to guzzle.

A Traveler’s Guide to Safe Tap Water

Safe water can be a pretty big issue. Not only can it ruin a perfectly good trip with diarrhea, but bad water can also carry hepatitis A, typhoid, and cholera. This is nothing to play around with.

When it comes to amoebas and parasites, it pays to be a bad host.

It isn’t just what you drink. Bad water can make you sick while swimming, brushing your teeth, ice cubes, and while in the shower.

How do you plan on having a safe supply of water on your trip? What’s your favorite filter? Join me in the comments below!

Bryan Haines is a co-founder and blogger on GudGear - and is working to make it the best resource for outdoor gear and guides.

He loves the outdoors and has hiked the Andes, kayaked the Galapagos, and biked and camped around Nova Scotia, Canada.

He is a travel blogger at Storyteller Travel and blogs about photography at  Storyteller Tech . He is also co-founder of Storyteller Media , a company he started with his wife, Dena.

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The Best Travel Water Filters To Keep You Healthy On The Road in 2023

Find the best travel water filters for 2023. These portable water filter brands give you clean, purified water while you travel.

Finding the balance between clean water while hiking and traveling and maintaining a sustainable ecological footprint can be a challenge. Disposable water bottles are not only unwieldy, but they also are a huge contributor to pollution and waste.

Travel water filters and portable water purifiers offer a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to purchasing bottled water for those who hike, camp, or travel. Ready access to clean water is also an essential part of staying healthy while traveling .

In this guide to the best travel water filters, I’ll explain the difference between water filters  and  water purifiers and share which water filter products I recommend based on the type of adventurer that you are.

Water purifiers offer the benefit of clean, safe water on demand. And they do this while minimizing ecological damage . If you travel to off-the-beaten-path destinations, they can also help ensure that these bottles don’t end up in the trash where advanced recycling infrastructures likely don’t exist.

Travel water filters come in many different forms, but the ones that I recommend here will ensure that you have clean, fresh-tasting water which won’t leave you with a bad case of Delhi Belly.

Why Trust My Opinion On Filtered Water Bottles?

Table of Contents

I have spent much of my adult life traveling the world . I’ve adventured everywhere from far-north of the Arctic Circle to remote Guarani villages in Argentina and everywhere in between.

When I became a Dad back in 2011, those travels didn’t stop. They just got more intense. Becoming a Dad simply re-inforced my need to keep my family safe during our remote travels and outdoor hiking and camping adventures.

I use travel water filters not just as a way to reduce my impact on the environments that I’m visiting, but also for the convenience of having fresh and clean water at my disposal almost everywhere, and to keep myself and my family safe from bacteria and viruses that can be found in unknown water sources.

During our travels, we’ve been in our fair share of places where finding clean water was a challenge . And when traveling in countries without drinkable water, travel water purifiers have been, literally, a life-saver.

Travel water purifiers are small, easy-to-use, and offer an even healthier alternative to bottled water , even when taken from the nastiest sources of water. The number one rule when traveling to many countries is “don’t drink the water.” A travel water purifier can change that.

The Best Water Filters and Water Purifiers

I know that time is short, so if you don’t have time to read my in-depth reviews of the best water filters for travel, camping, and hiking, I’ve laid out my top picks along with my main weighting factors when choosing the best travel water filters in this chart below.

If you’d like to see more information on each one of these products, keep scrolling and you’ll find a detailed breakdown of what makes each water purifier product good , and the pros and cons of going with that particular model.

GRAYL Ultralight

The Grayl Geopress travel water purifier is a straightforward, convenient, and feature-packed filtered water bottle . The integrated water bottle and filter make the Grayl Geopress one of the most popular water purifier filters for professional adventure travelers.

Using the Grayl Geopress

To use the GRAYL water filter you simply fill the bottle, press the inner filter down, and then drink the clean water directly. It’s fast, easy, and doesn’t involve waiting minutes or sucking from a narrow straw filtration system. The portable water purifier cleans out 99.99% of water-borne bacteria and viruses . The unit works very much like a french coffee press . The whole process only takes about 30 seconds before you can drink freely from the bottle.

Cons of the Grayl Geopress

There are limitations to the GRAYL Ultralight. The first is capacity. The filter takes up quite a bit of room in the bottle. Because of this, each fill-up can only hold about 16oz (>500 ml) of water. This means that you may have to fill up often , especially when it’s hot. It also means that if you’re in dry areas, you can’t carry a lot of water with you.

Another limitation of this unit is the cost of filter GRAYL Ultralight filter refills. Each filter is good for about 30.6 gallons (150 liters). But the rock-solid performance and tried and tested nature of the product make the GRAYL Ultralight is a solid, convenient, and all-around great choice.

SurviMate Filtered Water Bottle

The SurviMate filtered water bottle is built to take on any situation. This travel water filter can handle anything from urban travel to the Ganges with a combination of four unique filters that help you adapt to any travel circumstance.

The SurviMate replaceable filters  last an impressive 8 months . This means that you don’t have to have filter angst on your adventures. You can just enjoy some fresh, clean water wherever you are.

Using the Survimate Filtered Water Bottle

The features of the Survimate travel water bottle filter include a UF membrane filter, coconut shell activated carbon filter , antibacterial beads , and a medical-grade PP cotton filter . This combination gives this travel water filter the most comprehensive portable water filtration system on the list. The filter eliminates heavy metals, harmful chemicals, viruses, bacteria, and protozoa . And the replacement filters won’t break the bank either.

This is done using a straw-style filter . The raw water goes into the water bottle and you simply suck through the straw. As the water passes through, impurities are captured in the filtration syste m and you only receive fresh, clean water in your mouth.

Cons of the Survimate Water Filter

The Survimate filtration system is one of the best on the market. The filters are excellent and relatively inexpensive , especially compared to the Grayl system. However, where the Survimate hits a wall is its ability to deliver fresh, clean water quickly.

Because it uses a narrow, straw-style filtration system , drinking the water requires quite a bit of suction. And you won’t get a lot of water at a time. This means that drinking is quite a bit of work and less enjoyable than a system like the one from Grayl.

LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottles

LifesStraw is one of the most established names in portable water filtration . They’ve adapted their unique water filter straw design into various formats. Many of these are focused on the travel water filter market . I’ve tested several Lifestraw models and found that the LifeStraw Go seems to offer the best combination of functionality and convenience for travel lovers.

Using the Lifestraw Go

Lifestraw Go is a 22-fluid-ounce water bottle with an integrated LifeStraw filter . The bottle can be used with or without the filter . This means that you don’t need a separate bottle for when you’re in an area with good, clean drinking water.

You can also remove the straw itself and use it to drink water directly from a water source without using the bottle at all. This is perfect for those looking to cut down weigh t and bulk in their packs such as on backcountry expeditions .

The filter itself uses activated carbon to filter out 99.9% of bacteria and organisms while also lowering the amount of chlorine, odor, and aftertaste .

One thing I love about the LifeStraw Go portable water filter  is the lifespan of the filtration unit itself. One filter is good for a whopping 4,000 liters (1,056 gallons) or 3 months .

Cons of the Lifestraw Go

On paper, the Lifestraw Go should be hands-down the most economical travel water filter on the market. However, because the filter is two-stage, the LifeStraw carbon stage filter that removes chlorine and odor particles is only good for about 100 liters .

This isn’t a deal-breaker though. At only about $10 USD for a two-pack, this isn’t a major expense . And the design means that this part of the unit is incredibly small, so packing a few of them for a long trip isn’t too hard .

Brita Water Bottle with Filter

From the makers of your favorite fridge water filter comes the clean, convenient, and stylish Brita filtered water bottle . Brita has been making filters for decades, and they’ve found a new market in travel water bottles. These water bottles with filters are lightweight and easy to carry. The unit uses an activated carbon that not only removes pollutants and bacteria but also removes unwanted taste and odor .

Using the Brita Filtered Water Bottle

The Brita filter is tiny . This means that it doesn’t take up a lot of the water space within the bottle itself. That means more clean, delicious water between fill-ups. And it works very well.

The flip-open straw is easy to drink from. And it offers great flow compared to some of the other straw-style water filters . One portable Brita filter cleans as much water as about 300 disposable water bottles .

Cons of the Brita Water Bottle

I love the taste and convenience of water that comes out of the Brita. However, with its traditional straw style, I’d love for this unit to be able to be used directly without the bottle. Unfortunately, that is not the case. This means that the Brita is not ideal for ultralight hiking or camping .

What About Chemical and UV Travel Water Purifiers?

This guide focused primarily on travel water filters rather than typical water purifiers and tablets. The reason for this comes down to things like taste, sediment, and the ability to work without batteries .

Chemical water purifiers work to kill micro-organisms, bacteria, and things like Giardia in water . However, they are unable to eliminate things like sediment and bad taste . I tend to drink a lot of water when I travel, so I like that experience to be enjoyable.

Ultraviolet water purifiers act as a non-chemical alternative to chemical water purifiers . They tend to be safer, as they don’t rely on chemical interactions, and they are better for the environment . However, they require power, so this means extra batteries on long trips .

Honorable Mentions: Water Filters, UV Purifiers, and Chemical Purifiers

There are other products on the market than what I’ve mentioned earlier. Those are simply my selection for the best filtered water bottles. Depending on your situation, these units might also work well for you.

Best Travel Water Purifier For Urban Travelers

Steripen ultra.

The Steripen Ultra uses a UV lamp to kill and disinfect drinking water . Unlike filtered water bottles and straws, you simply dip the lamp into a water bottle or cup, shake or stir for a couple of minutes, and drink . This unique travel water purifier runs on a battery charged via USB . But because of the UV format of this unique water purifier, there are limitations to its abilities.

Due to the UV lamp, the Steripen Ultra is not a travel water filter. Instead, it acts only to purify the water that the lamp is dipped into. Because of the lack of filter particulate matter like dirt and setiment can remain in the water .

The UV lamp of the Steripen Ultra kills nearly all bacteria and viruses within the water. Because of this, the purified water is unlikely to cause any illness. However, it may leave the water cloudy and/or dirty to look at .

The other limitation of the Steripen Ultra is that it relies on battery power . This means that, should you be on an extended remote trip with limited or no access to power, you could be left high and dry.

Some of the cheaper versions of the Steripen use disposable batteries, however, this means you have to remember to carry batteries with you when you travel.

If you are traveling in areas where water is fairly free of sediment, the Steripen Ultra is a nice, easy travel water filter to carry with you . It also doesn’t have a limit to the quantity of water it can purify beyond the battery life.

Best Travel Water Filter For Backcountry Camping And Hiking

Survivor filter pro.

If you’re looking at spending some time on long hiking or camping excursions , having a camping water filter that can be a workhorse without being heavy or bulky is a blessing.

This is where the Survivor Filter Pro comes into play. This small and lightweight (just 8oz or 266 grams) has a three-stage filter that can handle more use than any other water filter on this list . The carbon filter can filter 440 gallons (2,000 liters). The other two filters in the chain can handle a whopping 22,000 (100,000 liters) .

The Survivor Filter Pro isn’t super fast . It takes about two minutes to filter 34 oz (1 liter) of water. However, because the Survivor Filter Pro is meant as a portable water filter for those doing longer excursions , it’s ideal for that environment.

The unit is priced well and the hand pump makes it very easy-to-use . The biggest limitation of this portable water filter is the tube input. This can get clogged when filtering water from especially dirty sources and can be awkward to use from a tap.

What You Need To Know Before Choosing A Filtered Water Bottle for Travel

How water filters work.

Portable filtration systems are designed to clean water on the go . Whether this is by filtering directly as you drink or filtering small amounts of water at a time for you to easily drink afterward. Water filtration systems use a series of filtration and sterilization techniques to accomplish this. These setups can change from one manufacturer to the other , so don’t assume that all portable water filters are the same. Here are some of the basics about what makes up a travel water filter.

Active Carbon Filter

Active carbon filters are one of the most common and effective methods of removing impurities from water sources . Activated carbon, also known as activated charcoal uses porous carbon to trap impurities . Because of this, it has a limited amount of filtration capacity .

Activated carbon filters generally need to be changed more frequently than other filter types. Occasionally you may notice black flecks floating around in filtered water. These are actually flecks of carbon and they are completely harmless .

Activated charcoal has been processed to become incredibly porous. These tiny pores act to f ilter particulate impurities from water sources , allowing clean, pure water to course through.

Ultra Violet Light

UV light filters are relatively few and far between for portable water filtration systems. This is usually because it takes time to purify water using Ultra Violet light and because the system relies on a power source. UV light actively kills bacteria, protozoa, and viruses via germicidal radiation that is harmless to humans.

Benefits and Disadvantages of Travel Water Filtration Systems

If you’re interested in purchasing a water filter for travel there are both advantages and disadvantages to using them. I’d love to say that everything is rosy and you’re life will instantly be perfect after choosing a travel water purifier. But there are some things you’ll need to get used to when using one.

Advantages of a Travel Water Filter

• Protecting The Environment – This is by far the most important reason for choosing a water bottle filter for travel. By using one you are potentially eliminating thousands of plastic water bottles that will otherwise end up wasting energy in recycling facilities, or worse, ending up in landfills, or in the oceans.
• Economical Value – The other advantage of not having to buy disposable water bottles is money. Replacement filters are far more affordable than disposable water bottles . investing your money in a water filter for travel means investing money in those trying to save the world rather than those causing the problems.
• Practicality – Having a portable water filter on hand means that you have access to clean water anywhere you go . If there isn’t a store nearby, just look for the nearest puddle, stream, or lake. No more stocking up on bottles; Just filter the water and drink.
• Convenience – If you are in remote areas, a water filter saves the time it takes to boil water . Getting clean water doesn’t mean starting a fire, getting water, waiting for it to boil, and then waiting for it to cool down enough for you to actually consume it. Water filters also eliminate the need for disinfection tablets .

Disadvantages of a Filtered Water Bottle

• Weight – Even the best-filtered water bottle is heavier than it’s a non-filter alternative. I think the benefits far outweigh the weight issue, especially when you consider the amount of gear you need to carry to boil water.
• Speed – Many travel water filters that use a straw system take time to drink consume or filter. It’s not as fast as just pouring water from a tap and shooting it down the hatch. LifeStraw products, for example, require a bit of work to suck through.
• Size – A filtered water bottle is generally designed to filter water in small amounts at a time . Because of this, it’s rare for one to hold more than about 24 oz of water.

Which Travel Water Filter Should You Buy?

When all is said and done, my personal choice for the best travel water filter is the GRAYL Ultraligh t. I rarely travel to destinations where I’m more than a short distance from a water source. Because of this, the small capacity of the GRAYL model is outweighed by its portability and durability . I’m not a big fan of sediment in my water, so I like that this filtered water bottle cleans out particulates .

The integrated bottle and filter also make carrying and using it a cinch. And the push filter method is far more practical for my uses than having to take hard sucks from a straw-based water filter.

Do you carry a travel water filter with you? Let me know your favorite model in the comments below, and tell me why you love it. You can also swing by our Facebook page and share a photo of your travels. We would love to hear from you.

You May Also Like To Read:

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Glen Taylor

Saturday 17th of April 2021

No. 3 is fantastic! All is working perfectly after I followed the directions to the letter! Turn the filter upside down when discharging it for the first time so that water enters from the bottom. I designed it from the ground up at first and am baffled as to why the water does not enter the actual filter. Fill the bottle with water, adjust the filter, and set aside for 10 minutes, according to the directions. I believe this is the aspect that some people are missing, which is why draining the water in the first few sips is so difficult. I let it sit for a while so that the water seeps through the filter properly, and the first few sips are really relaxing!

Kevin Wagar

Sunday 18th of April 2021

Thanks for the great tips Glen! Sometimes using these filtered water bottles involves a bit of a learning curve. I appreciate that feedback.

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Finding the Universe

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The Best Water Filters for Travel + Everything You Need to Know

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 12 Comments

If you are planning a trip or outdoor adventure to a destination where the local water might not be safe for drinking, you might be considering packing a water filter. This might be a backcountry camping trip, a hiking trip, or a trip overseas where you aren’t sure if the tap water is safe to drink.

Whatever the reason that you are thinking about packing a water filter, this post will help. We’re going to cover everything you need to know when it comes to choosing a water filter for travel, and also suggest the best water filters for your trip.

We’ll go over what a water filter is and why you might need one. We’ll look at what water filters actually remove from the water, and the different methods they use for doing so. We’ll cover a range of features that a water filter might have, and which ones you should consider important for your trip.

We’ve used a number of different water filters on our travels, both on camping trips in the back country and on trips to countries where the water wasn’t safe to drink.

We’ve put this guide together based on our personal experience as well as extensive research using information from trusted sources like government agencies.

By the end of this post, you should know if you need a water filter for your next trip, and if so, which one is going to meet your needs and budget!

Why You Might Need to Filter Your Water

Before we get into specific water filters, let’s look at why and where you might need to treat the water you are drinking.

As humans, we need water to survive. General guidelines are to drink 6 to 8 8oz glasses of water per day. The exact amount required varies depending on a range of factors, including ambient temperature and our level of physical activity. A lack of water can quickly become lethal, with most experts agreeing that the human body can only survive a few days without water.

So, we definitely need water. Unfortunately, water often contains things that are not good for us. These can include bacteria, viruses, and parasites as well as chemicals and metals.

Some of these may cause mild to moderate illnesses like travellers’ diarrhoea (or travelers’ diarrhea). This is actually the most common ailment travelers are likely to suffer from. Others can lead to very serious illness and even death. As such, it is important to ensure that the water you are exposed to is clean and free of any harmful contaminants.

This includes drinking water, and also the water you use for brushing your teeth, as ice in drinks, for cleaning fruits and vegetables, amongst other things. It only takes a small amount of contaminated water to cause a serious issue.

The main reasons people use water filtration devices are to filter potentially unsafe water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. Common situations where you might need to filter water are as follows:

• When hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and backcountry travel where you may be drinking untreated water
• International travel to destinations with unsafe drinking water
• Situations, such as flooding or water treatment issues, that make home water supply unsafe
• As an environmentally-friendly alternative to buying and drinking bottled water
• To filter safe but bad tasting water

Now, there are a number of different ways that you can treat water, as outlined by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention here . These include boiling water, using chemical treatments, filtration methods, and the use of UV light. So you do need to make sure that you are using the best method based on the type of contaminant, the destination, and your travels.

We discuss all these methods in more detail in our guide to accessing   safe drinking water when traveling . That guide also covers things like how to know if you need to filter water, and where tap water is safe to drink. We would recommend reading that guide as well for a fuller understanding of the topic.

This guide will focus specifically on water filtration as a method for treating water. In this guide we will be primarily looking at water filters from a travel perspective, meaning devices that are designed to provide you with drinkable water on trips abroad, hiking, back country camping trips, etc.

What is Water Filtration?

Water filtration is a method of purifying water for drinking. In the case of water filtration for travel, the goal is to make it safe to drink. There are other water filters on the market, often marketed for in-home use, which are primarily designed to remove taste and odor from water, but those are not within the scope of this guide.

Water filtration devices are a popular option for making water safe to drink when traveling, with a number of options available on the market at varying price points. Water filtration works by passing the water to be treated through a fine filter. The filter pores are so fine that they remove many contaminants from the water, resulting in clear, drinkable water.

Generally, the size of the filter pores will determine which contaminants the filter is capable of removing. Filter pores of around 0.1 – 0.2 microns (100 or 200 nanometres) will filter protozoa and bacteria, but not viruses. To filter out viruses, the CDC recommends filtration pores smaller than 0.03 microns (30 nanometers).

There are other technologies that can be used as part of a water filter such as ion exchange technology which can also purify water of various contaminants. These usually work in combination with pore-based technology.

A good water filter will clearly list what it is capable of cleaning, and should also reference the certification standards it has met that allow it to make these claims. More on these standards later on in the post.

Some water filters also include a carbon filtration stage which is designed to remove bad tastes from the water.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Water Filters for Travel

A water filter can be a good option for travel, but it is not the only option.

Some of the advantages of water filtration over other water treatment methods include:

• They can filter lots of contaminants, including bacteria and protozoa. Some can also filter viruses.
• They can filter water in a shorter amount of time than most other methods – almost instantly in certain types of filters such as the straw ones
• They are able to remove cloudiness caused by dirt/silt/sand, producing clear drinking water
• They can enhance the taste of water with carbon filtration
• The filtration device also often acts as a drinking vessel and for water storage, meaning you can carry some water with you
• They do not require any sort of energy source to work, meaning they are effective even when off-grid
• They are a lightweight option compared to something like a camp stove
• Some filtration systems, particularly gravity-based filtration, are ideal for cleaning large amounts of water which is good for a group scenario

Some of the disadvantages of water filtration over other water treatment methods include:

• The upfront costs can be higher than some other methods, although over time this cost evens out
• Most systems have filters which need replacement, adding to the overall cost
• They are more bulky than some options such as chemical filtration tablets or drops
• Some effort/force is needed on some methods of filtration, including pump-based and straw-based filtration methods
• They are not as effective on certain types of contaminants as boiling

Overall, a water filter can be a great option, but it is not the only one. See more options in our guide to safe drinking water for travel .

What to Look for in a Travel Water Filter or Purifier

Before we go through some of our recommended water filters, we wanted to cover what you should be looking for in a water filtration device.

What can a Water Filter Remove?

Probably the most important question you need to ask when shopping for a water filter or purifier is what it is capable of removing from your water.

The main contaminants you are likely to want to remove from water are:

• Chemicals 
• Dirt / silt / sand
• Microplastics

While water filtration and water purification systems are able to remove the above types of contaminants, not all filtration systems are capable of removing all these contaminants from water. To choose the best water treatment method, you will want to consider where you are traveling and the sorts of water sources you are likely to have access to.

Most water filtrations systems can remove most dirt, sand, microplastics, bacteria, protozoa, and parasites from the water. However, only those with finer filters will be able to handle viruses as well. And only those with carbon filters will generally be able to remove chemicals affecting the taste or smell of the water.

For backcountry travel in the US for example, the more pressing concerns are protozoa and bacteria, which most water filters should be able to handle. Viruses are most commonly transmitted via human waste, and this transmission is far less common in the US due to good waste management practices and low population densities in the areas where travelers might need to filter water sources.

Travelers to developing parts of the world may also want to consider a water purification system that can also remove viruses. Of course, those of you wanting to err on the side of caution (not a bad thing), might want a full purification system regardless of destination.

What can’t a Water Filter Remove?

Water filters and water purifiers can’t remove every possible type of harmful contaminant from water. You will want to carefully read the specifications of a particular water filtration product to ensure it removes the contaminants of concern for you.

It is important to note that water filters are generally NOT capable of removing things like:

• Toxic chemicals
• Radioactive materials

In scenarios like this, which normally are disaster related, the CDC recommends using bottled water.

Water filters for travel are also not designed to desalinate or filter seawater or ocean water.

Water Filter vs Water Purifier

You may come across the term water filter and the term water purifier, and wonder what the difference is. The difference is normally down to what it removes from the water.

A water filter is normally capable of filtering out protozoa and bacteria, and has larger pore sizes in the filter mesh. A water purifier can also filter out protozoa and bacteria, but is additionally capable of filtering out viruses which are much smaller.

Travellers in the United States will normally be more concerned with bacteria and protozoa such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium , which can be filtered out with a water filter. Travelers to less developed nations will need to consider viral risks like hepatitis A, which require a purifier.

These two types of filtration products are normally grouped together and we will be covering both of these products in our guide.

What Filter Mechanism Does It Use?

Water filtration devices, as the name suggests, use a filter to clean the water. These filters are very fine, and the water normally needs some pressure in order to pass through the filter itself.

Different filter systems have adopted different approaches to this. Three common systems are straw-based, pump-based, and gravity-based.

A straw-based system works like a drinking straw. The filter is found inside a large drinking straw like device. You put one end of the straw in the water to be filtered, and suck on the other end. The action of sucking through the straw creates negative pressure which results in the water passing through the filter and into your mouth. This is a good option where you have regular access to water, but is best suited for single person use. It can also require quite a lot of effort to suck the water through the straw.

Examples of recommended straw-based filtration systems are the LifeStraw Go and Sawyer Bottle .

A pump-based system works using some kind of pump to exert pressure on the water and force it through the filter. This is a good option for filtering water for later use, and you can filter as much or as little water as required in the moment. The disadvantage is that it can require quite a lot of manual effort to filter the water.

Examples of popular pump-based filtration systems are the Survivor Filter Pro and Grayl UltraPress .

A gravity-based system uses gravity to force the water through the filter. You add the water to be filtered to a bag, hang it up somewhere with the filter at the bottom, and gravity causes the water to pass through the filter. This can take some time, and is more popular for larger amounts of water. This is a good option for a group camp or for RV use where you want to filter larger amounts of water for multiple people.

An example of a popular gravity-based filtration system is the LifeStraw Mission .

How Long Does It Take to Filter Water?

When evaluating a water filtration or purification system, you should investigate how long it takes to filter the water. In most cases, manufacturers should provide an estimate for how long it takes to filter a certain amount of water, say one litre or one gallon.

For example, a gravity or pump-based system might be capable of filtering 10 litres in one hour.

For a straw-based system, the speed will depend on how hard you suck on the straw. But filtration is fairly instantaneous.

How Easy is it to Use, Maintain, Clean and Store?

When it comes to a product that is designed to create safe drinking water, you ideally want it to be as easy to use as possible. We recommend looking at the instruction manual for any product to get a feel for how many steps are involved in producing clean water.

If a product has a complicated, multi-stage process, there is a higher likelihood that you are going to get something wrong, potentially leading to drinking contaminated water. Ideally, the process should be simple and easy to remember.

As well as ease of use, you will also want to consider how easy the product you choose is to maintain, clean, and store. It should be easy to take apart for any cleaning, and there should be guidelines on how best to store it between uses.

A water filter isn’t something you are likely to be using every day, so between trips you want to be sure it is something you can pack away for next time without worry.

How Much Water Can it Filter?

Most systems for water filtration and purification have a limit on how much water they can filter. Larger pore filters, such as those designed to remove bacteria and protozoa, tend to have a longer lifespan than those with smaller pores which are designed for viruses.

So for example, a purification filter that can filter out viruses might be able to do 100 – 400 litres before the filter needs replacing. A system for bacteria might be able to do 1000L+ before it needs replacing.

This is because the way the filters work is that they actually get blocked up by the stuff they are filtering out of the water. Over time, all the pores will be blocked and the filter will stop allowing water through. Smaller pores get blocked quicker than larger pores.

Some filter systems allow you to extend the life of the filter by “back-washing” them. This involves forcing purified water through the filter in reverse to clean it out. This can significantly extend the lifespan of the filter.

Some water filter systems have different filter stages as well. For example, there might be a pore-based filter for filtering out nasties, and a carbon-based filter for improving the taste. Often, the carbon-based filter will have a more limited lifespan. The good news is that a worn-out carbon filter doesn’t make the water less safe to drink, although the taste of the water might be degraded when it is worn out.

The main thing is to figure out how much water you are likely to need to filter on your trip, based on duration and number of people. Then you can see if the device you are choosing will be adequate, and if you might need to invest in additional filters.

How Durable Is It?

Depending on where you plan to use it, a water filtration system is likely to be a critically important part of your kit. Having access to clean water is really important, and you need to be able to rely on the product you are buying.

Ideally the product will have been tested to withstand a certain amount of impact, both empty and full. If it stores water, you want to be sure it’s not going to leak. Out on the trail, you want something that is going to be able to handle being dropped or bashed around a bit without failing.

Definitely be wary of anything that has small fiddly bits of plastic that might easily break, as this could cause a serious problem. We would normally recommend having a fall-back system, such as chemical purification tablets if you will be off-grid for a while, just in case.

How Much Does It Weigh?

Weight is an important consideration for any traveler. If you are planning a back country hiking trip where you are carrying everything on your back, then you will definitely be thinking about weight a great deal.

However, even travelers with checked luggage don’t have infinite luggage allowances! So you are unlikely to want to pack a big bulky water filtration system, or carry it with you when you are out sightseeing.

The good news is that many of the options on the market are lightweight and designed to be portable, often being not much larger or heavier than a normal water bottle.

Does it Have Replaceable Parts?

Different filter designs will likely have different parts that are replaceable, and it is worth understanding what these parts are and what the replacement costs are.

Most filter systems will have replaceable filters, but some may have additional elements like hoses or seals that you are able to replace.

When comparing prices of different systems, it is worth checking the different prices of these replacement parts and their estimated lifespan so you have an idea of a total lifetime cost.

Certification of Efficacy

For something as important as safe drinking water, it is not enough to believe a manufacturer’s claims of efficacy. Any producer of a water filtration or purification system that believes in their product should be willing to have it independently tested to an agreed standard. Ideally these tests will be provided in full for you to look at.

There are two main standards that are used for water purification / filtration testing. The first is the  EPA standard . This was developed by the US-based Environmental Protection Agency in the 1980s, and provided a framework for testing micro biological water purifiers in order to demonstrate if they produced water that was safe to drink.

A more recent testing framework, NSF P231 , was released by the international organisation NSF (this used to stand for National Sanitation Foundation, but today it is just called NSF). The NSF framework was developed based on the EPA document, but is regularly revised and updated.

NSF P231 is the standard you should be looking for as a minimum for filtration testing. It is a tough 10-day test in multiple parts, and a reputable manufacturer should be able to show evidence that their device passed the test in full.

It is worth noting that there is also an even more strict standard, NSF P248, which some brands also test to for extra peace of mind. This is similar to P231, but was developed for testing US military water purification systems for use on military operations. This one is less common for consumer-focused filters, but if you want the ultimate in peace of mind, consider investing in a product which has met P248 testing requirements.

Note that there are other NSF testing standards, including NSF 42 and 53. These are primarily designed to test home water filters for taste improvements, rather than to render them safe.

We would definitely recommend investing in a filter that meets EPA and NSF P231 testing standards, and which provides proof of the same.

Cost Per Litre / Gallon

When you are comparing different water filters and purifiers, it can be hard to get an idea of how they compare from a cost point of view.

One good way to compare is to see how much it would cost you to filter one litre or one gallon of water using the device. To do this, you just need the cost of the device and the amount of water it can filter over its lifetime.

For example, you might spend 100 dollars on a device that can filter 1,000 litres of water. 100 divided by 1,000 is 0.10. So this device would cost you 10 cents per litre.

Of course, if the device has a replaceable filter which costs 25 dollars, your future cost will drop. So over the total lifetime of the product your overall cost might be lower. However, calculating the initial cost per litre or per gallon is a good starting point for comparison purposes.

What Water Sources Does It Support?

Depending on the type of travel you are doing, you might need a different style of water filtration device. For example, if you are primarily travelling in a country where you just want to filter the tap water for safety, then most devices will work fine as you can just hold them under the tap.

However, if you are planning a back country trip that will require you to source water from a stream or river, then you will need a device that allows you to capture that water, especially if the source is shallow. This might involve tubing and a pump, or some other mechanism for capturing the water to be filtered.

The main thing is to pick a device that is capable of working in the various scenarios you will need to use it in.

What Temperatures Does It Work In?

It is really important to check what temperatures the device you plan to buy is capable of working in. This is especially the case if you are planning on traveling to a cold weather destination.

When the temperature dips below freezing, obviously this can cause any water inside your filtration system to freeze. Some filters will be permanently damaged if this happens, and so are not rated for use in freezing weather conditions.

Most devices will work fine in warm weather, although do always check what temperature range the device is rated for and compare it with the temperatures you expect to encounter when using it.

The Best Water Filters for Travel

We will now go through our pick of the best water filters for travel. We list products across a number of water capacity sizes and price points that will suit a variety of travelers’ needs. We include water filters and water purifiers that use each of the three primary filtration methods.

Before we do though, a quick note. We are not qualified water purification experts or medical professionals, and you should seek professional guidance as to the best water filter for your needs and specific situation. This article is for information purposes based on our experiences, and does not constitute health advice.

We would stress that water purification is a complex topic, and drinking water that is not properly treated can be life threatening. So please ensure you research the topic thoroughly, understand the risks for your needs and destination, and get qualified advice if you are unsure.

These products are grouped by filter type (straw, gravity and pump), and then approximately by price, although prices vary so do compare before making a decision.

LifeStraw Go

LifeStraw are a well-known brand in the world of water filtration. They make a range of products, some designed for large scale water filtration in developing countries, others that are focused on the needs of travelers specifically.

Our favourite LifeStraw product for general travel is the LifeStraw Go series. This has actually been through various iterations, and we have used both the older models and the newer models.

You can see the older model in purple in the image below for reference. This has been replaced with the newer models seen on the left and right.

The left hand model is a double walled insulated stainless version , whilst the right hand version is more of a direct replacement to the original as it’s made from plastic.

The main changes are the new straw which is covered by the lid when closed. This makes the product more sanitary and also reduces the change of leaks, but it is not marketed as being fully leak proof.

The new model is also available in a stainless steel insulated version . This has the advantage of keeping your liquids cooler, but does add significant weight. For comparison, the 1 litre plastic model weighs 268g / 9.5oz empty, whilst the 1 litre stainless steel model weighs 624g / 22oz empty.

For back country hiking and backpacking we think the plastic model makes more sense as it is significantly lighter. However, if you want to keep your liquids cool the stainless steel version will also likely be more durable, although we’ve not had any issues with our plastic version across multiple trips.

We’ve used our LifeStraw Go on back country hikes in the USA where there hasn’t been filtered tap water available, including on a multi-day hike to Havasu Falls in Arizona. We’ve also taken it on international trips to filter tap water where we weren’t confident it was safe to drink.

The LifeStraw Go is a combined water bottle and water filter. It uses a straw-based filter system. To use it, you fill the bottle with the water you want to filter. The lid has a removable large straw filter attached to it, and when you suck through the spout the action of sucking draws the water through the filter.

There’s are various sizes available, including a 650ml (22 fl oz) version and a 1 litre (34 fl oz) version , and the current model can be purchased in either a stainless steel or BPA free plastic version. You can also buy a straw standalone if you don’t want the bottle.

The product uses a 0.2 micron filter which is capable of filtering out bacteria and parasites, but not viruses. It can handle up to 4,000 litres (1,000 gallons) before the filter needs to be replaced.

It also has a carbon filter to improve the taste, however this is only good for 100 litres (26 gallons) before it needs to be replaced.

LifeStraw test all their products and publish their results on their website. The LifeStraw Go meets US EPA and NSF P231 drinking water standards for the removal of bacteria and parasites.

The main disadvantage of the LifeStraw is that it is really designed for single person use. The filtration happens as you drink, so you can’t filter water and then distribute it to others. So everyone would need their own LifeStraw. It also isn’t good for filtering water for uses other than drinking, for the same reason.

However, as a drinking water filter it works very well as long as you don’t need to remove viruses, and the price is also very reasonable. We still use ours regularly when we travel.

Other similar options on the market include the Sawyer Bottle and the Katadyn BeFree . These work in a similar way, so you might want to compare stats and prices to see which fits your needs best.

Capacity: 650ml / 22fl oz (larger 1 litre size also available) Weight:  221g / 7.84oz Filter type: Straw based What it can filter:  bacteria, parasites Lifespan: 4000 litre / 1000 gallon Cost per litre in USD at MSRP: 1.12 cent per litre Price: Check online at Amazon here , REI here

Sawyer Bottle

Sawyer are another well-known brand who make a variety of water filtration products. The Sawyer Bottle is similar to the LifeStraw Go in that it works with an inline straw. To use it, you simply fill up the water bottle, then drink through the inline straw.

The bottle uses Sawyers 0.1 micron filter technology, which means it filters out bacteria and parasites, but won’t remove viruses. As it’s a straw, you need to suck quite hard to get the water through.

One major advantage of the Sawyer Bottle compared to the LifeStraw Go is that it comes with a backwashing kit. This is basically a syringe that you can use to force clean water through the filter in reverse, a process known as backwashing.

This significantly extends the life of the filter because it unblocks the pores. Sawyer state that with regular backwashing (after every trip ideally), the filter should last for at least 100,000 gallons. That is basically a lifetime of use for most people, and it makes the Sawyer Bottle one of the most cost-effective water filters in our round up on a cost per litre basis.

The bottle itself is also relatively lightweight, at 5.5oz (155g), and can hold 34oz (1 litre) of water.

It has similar downsides to the LifeStraw Go, in that it is primarily designed for providing clean drinking water for one person, rather than water for multiple people or for other purposes like cooking.

It is also missing a charcoal filter, so does not remove the taste that filters with a charcoal filter do. Products are tested to EPA standards, with test reports available on their website here .

Note that if you are traveling light and want a super portable water filter, Sawyer also sells their filter in a straw format so you can just drink directly from a water source through the straw.

The Sawyer mini filter only weighs 2oz and lasts for 100,000 gallons, with the same filter performance as the bottle (essentially it’s the same filter just with a straw instead of a bottle). This is a great option if you just need a filter and don’t need a bottle, or will have regular access to a water supply.

Note that Sawyer filters are also made in the USA.

Capacity: 1 litre / 34oz Weight: 155g / 5.5 oz Filter type: Straw What it can filter:  bacteria, parasites Lifespan: 454,609 litres / 100,000 gallon Cost per litre in USD at MSRP:  0.01 cents per litre Price: Check online on Amazon here

Water-to-Go Bioplastic Bottle

Water-to-Go make a range of water filtration bottles, but the one I want to highlight in this post is their Water-to-Go Bioplastic bottle.

That’s because this bottle is one of the more sustainable bottles on the market, as the bottle itself is made from bioplastic. Specifically, the bottle itself (although not the filter) is made from a sugarcane byproduct and is 100% recyclable. You can read more about their eco-friendly plastic here .

It’s also dishwasher friendly (although the lid needs to be washed separately). The small size and weight also makes it great for travel.

Of course, green credentials are no good if the bottle itself isn’t capable and I’m pleased to report that is the case.

This bottle actually filters more than most other bottle filter systems. As well as the usual bacteria and parasites, it can also filter viruses. These claims have been tested and proven by independent laboratory tests in the UK, USA, India and China, and you can see details of those test results here .

The filtration is achieved with a combination of a fine filter mesh, activated carbon and electropositive nanofiltration. That means that as well as purifying the water, it also removes bad tastes, heavy metals, chlorine and PFAS.

Now, there are some downsides. All that filtration does reduce the water flow rate, so it does take a bit of effort to suck the water through the straw. In my testing it’s a pretty similar experience to the LifeStraw system, but with the advantage of filtering more.

The other downside is that filtering out things like viruses and other smaller particles means that the filters do not last as long compared to systems that only handle bacteria and parasites. So the initial cost in cents per litre is a little higher than those systems, although replacement filters are good value and will bring that cost down over the lifetime of the bottle.

Overall, if you are looking for a more eco-friendly water filtration bottle that can handle viruses as well as bacteria and parasites, this is definitely an option to consider.

Capacity: 550ml / 18.5fl oz Weight:  99g / 3.5oz Filter type: Straw based What it can filter:  bacteria, parasites, viruses Lifespan: 200 litre / 53 gallons Cost per litre in USD at MSRP: 28 cents per litre Price: Check online at Water-to-go here , Amazon here

LifeStraw Mission

If you are looking for a product that can filter water for a number of people as well as for multiple uses, then consider the LifeStraw Mission. This is a gravity bag with a built-in filter.

To use it, you fill the bag up with water to be filtered, hang it up, and then gravity forces water through the filter and out of the tap.

This makes the LifeStraw Mission ideal for camping in groups, as well as general activities where you need water for multiple people or uses.

LifeStraw actually make a range of gravity style filters. The Mission is the version designed to purify water, and it will remove bacteria, viruses and parasites. This higher level of filtration makes it a more expensive option.

It meets NSF standard P231, and LifeStraw publishes lab report data on their website for their products.

LifeStraw also have other gravity products, such as the LifeStraw Peak and Flex , which are lower cost options that remove bacteria and parasites but not viruses. So which is best for you will depend on your destination and requirements.

If you want purification that can handle viruses as well, then the Mission is a good option. It comes in two versions, one with a 12 litre (3.1 gallon) bag and one with a 5 litre (1.3 gallon) bag. They both have the same filter, which has an impressive lifetime filtration capacity of 18,000 litres (4,755 gallons).

It’s also relatively light at 530g (18.7 oz) for the 12-litre version, which makes this a good option for travel. Given the long lifetime of the filter, it also offers an excellent cost per litre.

Capacity: 12 litres / 3.1 gallons Weight: 530g / 18.7 oz Filter type: Gravity based filter What it can filter:  bacteria, parasites, viruses Lifespan: 18,000 litres / 4,755 gallon Cost per litre in USD at MSRP: 0.7 cents per litre Price: Check online on Amazon here and REI here

Grayl UltraPress

We came across the Grayl range of products when researching a trip to Africa. We didn’t want to have to be constantly buying bottled water, but knew that the risk of water borne viruses was a real concern. As such, we wanted a filtration system we could rely on to fully purify water for drinking.

In our case this was primarily going to be water sourced from taps, so whilst it was normally clear to the eye, we had no idea what it might be carrying. To be on the safe side, we figured a system that filtered out everything including viruses was a good idea, which meant our LifeStraw Go wasn’t going to cut it.

We found the Grayl UltraPress met our needs. This looks like a water bottle, but has a clever built in-filter system which has you pressing the filter through the water sort of like a French Press, with the clean water ending up in a chamber you can drink from.

There are a few advantages of the Grayl UltraPress. First, it is capable of filtering out all waterborne pathogens including viruses. It does this with a combination of small pore holes and electroadsorption / ion exchange. There is also a carbon element in the filter to remove taste and odor.

Second, the press system means that the purified water goes into a chamber from where it can be decanted into other containers. So you can use this for multiple people, for cooking, personal hygiene and so on. This makes it much more flexible compared to a straw-based system.

There are some downsides. The double-walled design and relatively large filter unit means that the device is a little heavy. It can also only hold 500 ml / 16.90z, although the larger GeoPress model holds 740 ml / 24oz

In addition, a filter which can filter out viruses often has a shorter lifecycle.

The Grayl Ultrapress filter is rated at 150 litres (40 gallons), so the cost per litre is quite high. In some destinations, it might even be higher than buying bottled water. However, replacement filters are not too expensive, so over the lifetime of the product the price per litre will come down a little.

The larger GeoPress is only marginally more expensive and can do up to 250 litres (65 gallons) per filter, so that does work out more cost-effective overall. However it is also bulkier and heavier.

Pressing the water also takes a bit of effort. I found it easiest to put the whole unit on the floor and then push down, although it can be done by hand on a table as well. Grayl does recommend using your body weight to push it down, and the surface of the top of the bottle that you push on is designed to be comfortable to do this and to withstand the pressure.

It’s just quite a bit of work, and in my experience took a little longer than the 10 seconds Grayl suggests, even with clean water and a new filter.

It is also worth noting that an electroadsorption / ion exchange based filtration process is a little different to standard filtration which relies on pore size. A pore-based system basically blocks the bad things. An ion based system works a bit like glue – the bad things in the water like viruses stick to the ions while the water passes through.

Unfortunately, over time, the ions can lose their charge and the filter can lose its effectiveness. Unlike a pore-based system, which blocks up and becomes un-usable when exhausted, there’s no easy way to tell when an ion-exchange system has lost its charge.

Grayl state that 300 presses is the lifetime of the system, and this is when the larger pores will become blocked, resulting in reduced flow. Basically, when it takes twice as long as normal to press through, it’s time to change the filter. We’d recommend trying to keep track of how much you have used it as well, and erring on the safe side when it comes to replacing the filter.

Finally, whilst the Grayl website states that the product has been independently tested to meet or exceed NSF protocols 42 and 53, there is no mention of NSF protocol P231, which is the standard that should be tested to. I also wasn’t able to find the test results on their website.

I did reach out to Grayl about this, and they did send through independent laboratory test reports that show that the product works as advertised to remove viruses, bacteria and protozoa. So if you have concerns, I’d suggest reaching out to them directly, their customer service is very responsive.

In addition, independent tests like this have shown that Grayl does purify water as it claims. I would like to see this sort of thing published on the Grayl website for transparency.

Overall we have liked our Grayl UltraPress for travel.

Capacity: 500 ml / 16.9 fl oz Weight: 354 g / 12.5 oz Filter type: Electroadsorptive ion exchange / charcoal What it can filter:  bacteria, parasites, viruses Lifespan: 150 litres / 40 gallons Flow Rate : 3 litres / minute Cost per litre in USD at MSRP: 60 cents per litre Price: Check online at Amazon here , REI here and Grayl here

Survivor Filter Pro

Survivor is another well-known brand for water filtration. The Survivor Filter Pro is popular with back country campers, but it’s a good travel option in general due to its light weight.

The Survivor Filter Pro is basically a hand powered pump filter. Unlike most of the other devices in our round-up, it doesn’t have built-in water storage. Like the SteriPen, it is designed to work with your existing water storage system.

The pump is quite simple. It has an inlet hose and an outlet hose, as well as three filter stages. You put the inlet hose into the water you want to purify, and the outlet hose into your container. When you pump, the water passes through the three-stage filter process.

These three stages work as follows. First, there’s a 0.1 micron (100 nanometer)  pre-filter which removes bacteria and parasites. The water then goes through the carbon filter, which improves taste and can remove certain heavy metals and chemicals.

Finally, the water passes through the 0.01 micron (10 nanometer) ultra-filter. 10 nanometers meets the CDC guidelines for optimal ultrafiltration of viruses.

You might think that having such fine pores would result in the Survivor Filter Pro having a short lifespan. However, Survivor supplies you with a syringe that can be used to force clean water through the pump in reverse. This flushes out the filters, unblocking the pores, and greatly extending the lifespan.

With regular back washing, Survivor states that their filters will last up to 100,000 litres (26,417 gallons) before needing to be replaced. Replacement filters are also relatively low cost. The carbon filter is rated up to 2,000 litres (528 gallons).

In terms of testing, all Survivor Filters are tested by independent third-party labs to be sure they perform as claimed up to NSF standards. You can see the reports on their website here .

In terms of cost per litre and overall unit cost, the Survivor Filter Pro offers excellent value for money. The only main downside is the flow rate. It takes a minute to pump half a litre of water. This is honestly to be expected, given the very tiny pore size in use, but it is definitely one of the slower options on our list.

If you don’t want to spend your time pumping, consider instead the battery powered electric version . That will filter up to 360 litres (95 gallons) from two AA batteries, but can also be powered by USB. Of course, relying on an electric solution will not be for everyone.

Overall, as a lightweight long-lasting option this is a very good choice. It’s particularly good for backcountry camping where weight is key, and where turgid water sources might stump a UV based system like the SteriPen. You also obviously need to pack and bring your own water bottle.

Capacity: N/A Weight: 362g / 12.8 oz Filter type: Pump based filter What it can filter:  bacteria, parasites, viruses Lifespan: 100,000 litre / 26,417 gallon Flow Rate :  0.5 litres / minute Cost per litre in USD at MSRP: 0.07 cents per litre Price: Check online on Amazon here

Further Reading

And that’s it to our guide to the best water filters for travel. We hope you found it useful! Before you head on, we also wanted to share some other content we’ve put together that you might find useful, as well as relevant third party resources.

• We have a guide to finding safe drinking water when traveling which is a good post to read in addition to this one.
• Useful third party resources including this CDC guide to water disinfection methods, and this guide to food and water safety tips
• We have a guide to the best travel shoes for men and the best travel shoes for women .
• We have a review of our favorite portable coffee makers for brewing on the go.
• We have a packing list for Havasu Falls , as well as a guide to the Havasu Falls hike .
• We have a review of the best travel routers as well as the best mobile hotspots to help you get online when you travel

And that’s it! As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts, comments and questions on this guide if you have any. Just pop them in the comments section below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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There are 12 comments on this post

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Nathan says

5th September 2023 at 9:07 pm

Hi Laurence & Jess,

So I am wondering if you could tell me about the Larq filter bottles – they say they “purify” the water but I can’t find that they work against viruses, protozoa, or anything like that. They do seem to work against bacteria and metals. Do you know more about these?

The Larq bottles and pitchers seem to be being promoted by other influencers a lot but seems they are getting them for free so don’t really trust their reviews and saw claim they do work against all the things that Sawyer and LifeStraw filter out but can’t find that info for myself on their website, so wanted to see what you know and think about them?

I am specifically looking for a good multipurpose filter bottle that I can use no matter where we go. we generally do 2 1 week long international trips each year as well as hiking/skiing trips domestically several times a year. Something that can filter out all the common baddies that can cause illness like bacteria, viruses, and protozoa as well as generally filter out sediment when drinking from backcountry sources when hiking. Not concerned about carbon filters for taste although fine if those included.

thanks for your help!

Laurence Norah says

5th September 2023 at 9:41 pm

This is a good question. So Larq has a few different products, and I should first say that I am not personally familiar with them. They do specifically say on their website here that the Larq Bottle Filtered is not designed for use in the backcountry (see the question about use in the backcountry), as it’s primarily designed to filter tap water of impurities rather than bacteria.

They also have the PureVis product, which works with a UV light to filter the water. That should be effective against bacteria and viruses in clear water, although any sediment can reduce the efficacy of a UV based system.

Honestly, it’s hard to give a good opinion without any personal experience. I would look for independent laboratory test results, which I can’t find for the PureVis on the site, and there’s limited information about what it works on. You might want to reach out to Larq directly to see if they can provide you with this information if you are interested in the product. I think to achieve what you want, you would need both the filtered bottle and the UV bottle.

Personally we do like our Grayl units which we’ve used across Europe and Africa with no problems to date. But I think that the majority of the products in our guide should work for you. The Survivor is one of the more lightweight options. I’d probably suggest picking a product that lets you filter water and decant it into other containers after filtering, so not a straw based system, as it’s a bit more convenient in our experience.

I hope this helps, let me know if you have any more questions 🙂

Ashlee Norton says

17th August 2023 at 8:38 pm

Hi Laurence!

QUESTION: So I use a pitcher water filter at home (LifeStraw or Brita) and mostly because I don’t like the way our local tap water tastes but am not going to pay for bottled water. So need a bottle for traveling that can filter basic things but also improves taste, what options would you recommend I look at? Ideally I would like something that I can use for places we are planning to go in future where water is potentially unsafe (e.g., Mexico/Carribean/Central America) but also use without a big filter just for taste filtration for tap water when traveling within the U.S. and Canada (so something with swappable filters if that is even a thing or maybe two different bottle types?). Thanks!!!!!!!!!!

17th August 2023 at 9:06 pm

Hey Ashlee!

So we have the home Lifestraw pitcher as well, it works pretty well although it is a bit slow 😉

Anyway to your question, the main part of the filter which improves taste is the carbon filter, so you’ll want a filter that includes that. I’d say the Grayl , Survivor , Lifesaver or Lifestraw .

Unfortunately none of them has the option to just use the carbon filter. I think if you are planning on sharing water with other members of your group then the Grayl, LifeSaver or Survivor would make more sense as the Lifestraw filters as you suck rather than allowing you to make water which you can put into other bottles for later use.

So then it will depend on which model you prefer. The Survivor is smaller and more portable, and you can even buy an electric version which makes things easier. The Grayl is larger and heavier, and the filters need replacing more often, but it definitely works well. The LifeSaver is also pretty heavy, and more expensive, but the filters last longer than the Grayl.

I hope this helps a bit! Safe travels 🙂

18th August 2023 at 12:55 am

thanks for your super quick answer, I think after looking over these we are between getting two Lifestraw bottles (since we already trust the brand and ok with the straw) or sharing a Grayl….will look closer and discuss with hubs and make the order this weekend. thanks a million for all your help!

18th August 2023 at 8:41 am

My pleasure Ashlee! Safe travels 🙂

Shelby says

4th November 2022 at 6:44 pm

Laurence & Jessica – very useful overview of all these types of water filters. It was helpful to read when planning for a trip we have planned to Mexico.

Another thing that has really concerned me is that microplastics are making it into our bodies via food and water and we now filter all the water we drink at home. It sounds like most (or maybe all?) of the water filters and purifiers you mention will filter out microplastics, am I understanding that correctly?

7th November 2022 at 10:52 am

You are correct! According to this Lifestraw article ( https://lifestraw.com/blogs/news/what-you-need-to-know-about-microplastics ), the smallest microplastics are around 0.7 microns, and all the filters in our list are around 0.2 or smaller, so they should all easily filter out microplastics.

Have a great time in Mexico!

Susan Baker says

6th September 2022 at 11:22 am

Hi there Laurence & Jessica,

So I have the regular Lifestraw from several years ago (no bottle) and it has been with me whenever I go on long hikes, boating, fishing trips, camping, etc. Generally just as a backup to the water we bring but we have used it a few times and no issues using it. We just collect some water using a cup or something and then use the straw.

I am thinking about getting the Lifestraw Go with bottle for more general travel purposes, but am wondering can it be used also just as a regular water bottle without the straw if in a place where we would not need to filter the water? Will it leak without a straw in it?

Best, Susan

6th September 2022 at 3:34 pm

So I just tested this with our Lifestraw Go bottle, removing the straw and filling it up with water. It doesn’t leak when I shook it around and held it upside down, or when drinking from it. The only thing to note is that obviously without the straw you have to tilt it to drink from it, whereas with the straw obviously the straw sucks from the bottom of the bottle.

I also don’t know as I haven’t tested it how it would perform on an airline – some water bottles with a flip up straw lid can leak a bit in a pressured environment, so I would just use it with caution in that scenario.

Otherwise I think it would definitely work fine as a regular water bottle, and it would also hold more water in that setup as the straw takes up a bit of volume.

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Scott McKenzie says

6th September 2022 at 10:18 am

I’ve just ordered a Katadyn Befree filter… typical that you publish this now! Lots of positive reviews online so fingers crossed for it…

6th September 2022 at 10:35 am

I actually do mention the Katadyn BeFree in this guide under the LifeStraw entry. It’s very similar in terms of how it works, and Katadyn are a great brand too, so I don’t forsee you having any issues! I just felt the post might get a bit repetitive if I had so many overlapping products 😉

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Best Water Filters for Travel

Megan Johnson

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two young children, and their dog, Indiana Bones (Indy).

The Handy Item I Always Pack: Kindle

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While water bottles are the more environmentally and economically friendly option for drinking water while you are on the go, knowing your water is safe can be challenging. You can invest in one of these filters to ensure your water is safe, giving you peace of mind no matter where your travels find you. 

What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials

Types of Water Filters

Before we delve into which filters are best for traveling, it’s essential to know the difference between types of filters, and decide which one is right for you. 

UV Purifiers 

These purifiers use UV light to kill harmful bacteria found in water. These are usually more expensive than other filter types. 

Pump Filters

Pump filters are precisely as they sound – you pump the water out of a filter. 

Gravity Fed Filters

Gravity filters use two tubes connected by gravity to move the water from one bag, through the filter, to the other, clean bag. 

Straw Filters

Straw filters allow you to drink the water directly from the source or from a bottle from which you have gathered the water- the filter connects to a straw, and your suction from sipping brings the water through the filter. 

Tablets go into your water and kill any damaging bacteria. Unlike filters, the effect of tablets is not immediate, you usually have to wait 4 hours or so for it to make the water safe. 

Countertop Filters

Countertop filters aren’t going to come with you as you travel. However, they are a handy option for shorter excursions and when you want to filter your water at home. They typically have a well, and you filter the water as needed. These generally are the most expensive filters. 

Tap Filters

Tap filters either live under your sink and connect to your pipe or attach to your faucet, a cheaper alternative to the counter top filters.

The Ultimate Camping Packing List: 29 Essentials

Best UV Water Filter – Steripen Adventurer

Super compact and easy to use, the Steripen Adventurer uses UV technology to destroy dangerous bacteria found in water. It comes with a carry case for easy transport while traveling. 

Best UV Water Bottle – LARQ Bottle

This insulated water bottle has a UV light integrated into the cap that filters down into the water, killing anything harmful. It automatically turns on every two hours, making it an excellent stress-free option for anyone on the go. 

Best Built-In Water Bottle Water Filter – LifeStraw Go

This water bottle uses a 2-stage filtration with the built-in filter straw. The filter removes bad taste, odor, chlorine, and organic chemical matter from undrinkable water, making it safe, refreshing, and thirst-quenching. 

Best Press Filter – GeoPress Purifier – Nature Edition

Get clean drinking water in just seconds with the GeoPress Purifier. This purifier removes waterborne pathogens, filters particulates, and features a twist cap to vent the air during filtration to protect it from cross-contamination. It filters up to twenty-four ounces of water. 

Best Multi-use Filter – Sawyer Mini

Use this ultra-compact filter in two different ways: either as a straw filter or as a squeeze filter. Choose whichever way you want to use it: by filling up the squeeze pouch with water, attaching the filter, and squeezing it out into your water bottle, or by attaching it to the included straw and sipping it from a cup or other container. 

Best Gravity Purifier – Platypus Gravity Water Filter

The Platypus Gravity Water Filter comes in several sizes to meet all of your water filtering needs on the go. Perfect for hikes and camping, a filter connects two bags and tubes, and the water travels through the tubes by gravity.  Choose the 6L bags for large groups or smaller sizes for individuals. No matter what size you choose, they roll up into a smaller size for easier transport. 

7 Things We Always Pack for Active Trips

Best Pump Filter – Survivor Filter PRO

The Survivor Filter PRO brings back the technology of the old water pumps you’d find in every town – put the tube connected to the reservoir into the water, and pump it out through the filter and out the top into your water bottle. 

Best Water Purifier Tablets – Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets

If a filter seems too much of a hassle, you can try purification tablets like these . Simply drop them into your water and let the magic happen. However, these aren’t great if you are in a hurry for whatever, as it takes four hours for them to do the job. They filter up to 4 liters at a time. 

Best Countertop Water Filter – The Well by Lang 

This counter system is much too big to take with you anywhere; however, it is the perfect option for purifying water you will take with you anywhere. It will purify and mineralize your water, giving you refreshing, great-tasting water to fill your jugs or bottles. 

Best Tap Filter – PUR PLUS Water Filtration System

The PUR Plus Water Filtration System easily attaches to your tap, giving you crisp, good tasting water. It’s available in six colors, so you can match your kitchen or add a pop of color. 

Which Water Filter is Right for Me? 

Which filter is right for you depends on your preferences and what you need it for. If you are planning on a long camping/hiking trip, a bigger portable filter like the Platypus Gravity Water Filter is going to be the better option. If you want something to carry with you at all times when you need clean water in a pinch, a straw like the LifeStraw is all you need. (be aware, it may be alarming to sip dirty water without seeing it filtered, so if you are squeamish this option may not be for you). If you are just looking for a way to get clean, safe drinking water at home to take with you, the Well by Lang is your best bet. 

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7 Best Portable Water Filters & Travel Purifiers: 7 Factors Compared

If you’re traveling to rural areas abroad, you need to decide how you’ll filter your water supply. In this huge guide, you’ll learn how to choose the best portable water filter and purifier for your travels. We include factors to consider, plus common water risks, and answer commonly asked questions about water.

How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter / Purifier

If you’re used to having clean, safe water at home, you might not think about the need to filter water when you travel. Uganda does not have treated water available everywhere, like you may be accustomed to in your home country.

Yes, you can buy bottled water in Uganda. But you can never be 100% sure of where bottled water comes from, and we all know how plastic is taking a negative toll on the environment. And who wants to carry that extra weight all day long? 

Taking one or more portable water filters with you on your trip to Uganda can provide the perfect solution.

Not only are most portable water filters easy to use and light enough to carry in your backpack, but all of them are designed to clean water of most bacteria and parasites while many others can remove viruses, metals, and other toxins.

Your water filter is an important thing to include as you pack for your African safari .

When looking to purchase portable water filters, you will discover that they come in a wide variety, so how do you know which one is right for you?

This guide aims to help you determine just that by suggesting some of the best water filters available on the market as well as informing you about things you need to know about water filtration and purification.

What’s in this guide? You’ll learn about types of water filters and purifiers, including methods of purification. Plus, common risks of drinking untreated water. And the difference between water filters vs. water purifiers.

3 Top Picks: Best Portable Water Filters

1. best for long-lasting life: sawyer all-in-one.

Find this on Amazon or REI

For convenience, this water filter features an adapter that can transfer your cleaned water to a drinking bottle or other receptacle.

2. Best for Family: LifeStraw Family 1.0

Get yours on Lifestraw or Amazon

This is ideal for families or large traveling groups. On top of that, this unit cleans your water of bacteria, parasites, protozoa , and viruses so that you can have peace of mind knowing you are drinking healthy water.

3. Best for Efficiency: SteriPEN Ultra

Get yours on REI or Amazon

The SteriPEN is small, lightweight, simple to use, and gets the job done with little effort.

Buyers Guide: Portable Water Filters and Purifiers

7 types of portable water filters and purifiers.

Advanced technology has produced a wide variety of water filters and purifiers that perform different functions, but the following are the most common:

• Straw filters are among the lightest and easiest types of portable filtration you will find on the market. These filters may look like large, fancy straws, but there is a lot of high-tech stuff going on inside them. Straw filters feature cartridges made from layers of tightly woven fiber membranes so that your water can pass through, but bacteria, parasites, and other contaminants get trapped. How they work is as simple as drinking through a straw, except you may need to give these straw filters a little extra suction.
• Pump filters feature a pump component that requires you to force water through by hand, but many of these types are designed to work quickly so that you don’t wear out your arm. Pump filters are usually larger than other filters but still compact enough to fit in your backpack. These pump types use various filtration techniques such as fiber filters, ceramic filters, or a combination of these with an activated carbon filter.
• Bottle filters are basically water bottles with a straw filter cartridge inside them that clean up the water as you drink. You use the bottle to take in the water, and then the straw filter does its job of filtering out contaminants so that only healthy water reaches the mouthpiece. Most bottle filters use fiber filters, but some may use solid block activated carbon filters which can effectively reduce viruses, arsenic, heavy metals, and other toxins. Many bottle filters come with a removable water filter, so if you know your water is from a pure source you can remove the filter and use it as a normal water bottle, then attach the filter again when you need it.
• Gravity water filters usually consist of two containers where gravity pulls the water from one – through a filter and into the second to clean your water. Often, these containers are hanging bags with attachable hoses. Gravity filters often use a combination of activated carbon and ceramic filters or inline filters to effectively remove bacteria, viruses, parasites, and some pesticides and herbicides . Gravity water filters are usually larger than other filtration systems and feature multiple components.
• UV filters feature glass elements of ultraviolet light rays that kill bacteria when the water passes through the system. UV filters are used less because they rely on batteries, but they do have some advantages that include working quickly and improving the taste and smell of the water.
• Ceramic filters kind of work like a coffee maker. You pour water in the top which then goes through the filter and into a receptacle that has an attached spigot. These filters are heavier than other filters, but they are porous with extremely small holes (0.5 – 1-micron) that trap bacteria, parasites and other contaminants like asbestos. Some of these filters are treated with silver to prevent mold and algae growth. Many ceramic filters are used in conjunction with activated carbon filters to increase the effectiveness of eliminating many volatile organic compounds such as solvents, gasoline, and cleaning agents.
• Inline filters are the most versatile because they can be used by themselves as a straw, inside a regular water bottle, or attached to an output hose of a bucket or hydration bladder. Inline filters are also small and lightweight and have a long lifespan.

5 Methods of Purification

• Reverse Osmosis : Reverse osmosis forces water through a membrane of pores that are so small and fine that most contaminants cannot pass through. After the filtering process, the purified water is collected and safe to drink.
• Boiling : Boiling water is one of the safest, easiest, and cheapest ways to purify water. Bringing your water to a boil and allowing it to boil between 1 and 3 minutes kills harmful parasites and bacteria.
• Filtration : One of the most effective and economical methods of water purification, filtration can involve both physical and chemical processes to rid your water of dangerous contaminants. These processes include using materials that trap bacteria and active carbon that absorbs harmful compounds such as pesticides.
• Distillation : Distillation is a purification method in which clean water is collected by vaporizing it from boiling water. While this method is a slow process and requires a heat source, it is effective in removing bacteria and parasites as well as heavy metals such as mercury, arsenic and lead.
• Chlorination : This method has been used for many years in developed countries to treat water for the use of home consumption in cities because chlorine is known to be effective in killing germs and other disease-causing agents found in groundwater. However, you can also buy chlorine tablets to use for water treatment when traveling. People with some medical conditions may not be able to use chlorine tablets, so make sure you talk to your doctor beforehand.

Check out our Uganda Food Guide (16 Must-Try Dishes for Your Visit)

7 Things to Consider When Buying a Portable Water Filter

• Function : What will you need your water filter to do? Will you be hiking in high-altitude mountains where the biggest water threats are bacteria and parasites? Or, will you be in an area that is largely concentrated with people and need to reduce your risk of viruses? Some water filters are not designed to kill viruses, so be sure you purchase the type of model you need.
• Weight : You probably don’t want to carry around a heavy portable water filter when you travel. Most filters are designed to be carried in your backpack, but their weight varies according to their structure, filtering technology, and components. Be sure to note the weight of each filter that interests you.
• Filtration Speed : How quickly will you need your water filtered? Each portable water filter model works at a specific rate. Some will filter a few ounces per minute while other models may produce 16 ounces per minute. Think of what your needs are to determine how much of a filtration speed you require.
• Filter Capacity : How often will you be using your portable water filter? Some models are only good for a few days or weeks while others can keep on functioning well for a longer period. Take a look at each filter and note its filter capacity. Some models can filter up to a couple of hundred gallons of water while others are equipped to clean up to 100,000 gallons of dirty water.
• Ease of Use : As you can see from this guide, not all portable water filters are created equal. Some are simple devices that get the job done quickly with little effort. Others are complex systems with components that need to be assembled and cleaned after each usage. Note whether a model requires batteries or a set-up with instructions. Consider which of these works best for your personal situation.
• Durability : Will this portable water filter hold up to elements? How likely is it to be damaged if you drop it? The durability of a water filter is determined by how it is designed and from the materials it is constructed.
• Cost : Just like all other products, portable water filters come in every size, shape, and style as well as price. Consider your budget before purchasing one. An expensive price tag doesn’t always guarantee a quality product. Some models can provide you with exactly what you need at an affordable price.

How to choose the best camera for safari

5 Common Risks for Drinking Untreated Water

Do you really need a portable water filter? You may wonder this if you are traveling from Canada or the USA where there is not that big of a problem with contaminated water.

It is important for anyone traveling to any foreign country to be aware of the possibility of sickness, disease or even death when drinking untreated water. There are always higher risks of viruses in larger populations and exposure to chemical run-off in industrialized areas.

Here are some of the most common risks you want to avoid:

• Bacteria : Bacteria from animal and human fecal waste that includes cholera, E. coli, Shigella, Salmonella, and coliform can cause serious illnesses. If you do become sick, you could die without treatment.
• Protozoa : These parasites can cause giardiasis, cyclosporiasis (known as traveler’s disease) and cryptosporidium, which are intestinal infections involving pain, severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and a weakened immune system.
• Viruses : Viruses common in untreated water include hepatitis, meningitis, norovirus, polio, rotavirus, SARS, and hand-foot-and-mouth disease.
• Chemicals and heavy metals such as oil, lead, mercury, pesticides, paint, industrial run-off, and cleaning agents can also be harmful.
• Algae : There are some forms of algae blooms that can be harmful to humans.

Water Filters vs. Water Purifiers: What’s the difference?

While these seem to be very similar, there is one primary difference: virus elimination.

• Water filters are designed to filter water of bacteria, parasites, and protozoa, but not viruses since they are much smaller and can slip through the system. Some water filters can also filter out metals such as lead, iron, mercury, and copper.
• Water purifiers , on the other hand, can eliminate viruses and  all the above impurities from water. Water purifiers are required by the Environmental Protection Agency to rid water 99.9% of all viruses.

Boiling water , chemical treatments, and UV light are traditional methods of purification that are able to kill viruses but not physically remove them.

That is where pump water purifiers come in handy. Not only does a pump purifier remove dead viruses from water, but sediment as well.

More reading: Is Uganda Safe? Guide to Water, Crime, Disease, Sun

4 More Portable Water Filters and Purifiers

Take a look at these highly-rated portable water filters to see what appeals to your needs and preferences. It is recommended that you use more than one type of water filter because no filter is perfect.

Having a mix of different types of water filters can provide you with different functions and a backup if one becomes damaged.

1. Katadyn Vario Water Filter

Weighing about 15 ounces and small enough to fit in your backpack, this water filter features a 36-inch outlet and inlet hose and plastic clip that attaches to your water bottle to prevent it from slipping while it fills with water.

Check current price on Amazon or Bass Pro Shops

The pump on this water filter works quickly, so you won’t have to throw your arm out while pumping water.

Plus, it can filter up to two quarts per minute. You will also appreciate how the charcoal in this Katadyn Vario model filters out most undesirable smells and tastes so that your water is pleasant to drink.

2. LifeStraw LSPHF017 Water Filter

Check current price on Amazon

Best of all, this filter is designed to remove up to 99.9% of the protozoa and bacteria that ordinarily live in water.

The Lifestraw needs suction to get it going good for each use, but it can provide a flow rate of 57 oz. (1.7 liters) per minute.

3. LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

The water filter removes unpleasant smells and tastes through a two-stage carbon cartridge.

There is also a fiber membrane that filters out 99.99% of bacteria and protozoa that you find most common in water.

The filter is removable, so if you have a source of pure water you can remove it and use it as a normal water bottle.

The straw filter is designed to clean up to 264 gallons of water before it needs replacing. You will know when the filter reaches its limit because it will stop collecting water.

4. Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System

This system comes with a versatile adapter that you can attach to a bottle, faucet, or water pouch whenever you want to improve the quality of your drinking water. You will appreciate the durability of the filter because it can clean up to 100,000 gallons of water before requiring a replacement.

FAQs About Water Purification

1. what is potable water.

Potable water is a term used to mean water that is safe for humans to drink without presenting any health risks throughout lifetime consumption.

Potable water doesn’t mean it must taste good. It just needs to be safe for your health.

2. What do water filters remove from the water?

Depending on their design, water filters can remove bacteria and parasites that cause diseases such as E. coli, cholera, dysentery, traveler’s diarrhea, giardiasis, typhoid fever, and hepatitis.

Some water filters can also eliminate harmful chemicals and metals such as iron, lead, pesticides, and chloramines.

3. How reliable are portable water filters?

Portable water filters can be considered reliable if they meet the certification standards of NSF International , a respected organization that protects human health globally by setting guidelines for food, water, and environmental products.

A water filter that meets NSF standards should have the organization’s logo on its package.

You can expect your water filter to be reliable if you change the filter cartridge regularly and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. How do you care for your water filter in freezing temperatures?

Unfortunately, freezing temperatures can cause water filters to crack , which then allows toxins to slip into your drinking water. Frigid weather can also cause clogging and batteries to stop working on some filters.

The best way to protect your water filter during freezing temperatures is to keep it warm with your body heat. This means keeping it close to your body. Put the water filter in a ziplock bag and place it in your sleeping bag near you.

If temperatures are below freezing during the day and your water filter is small enough, you can place it in your pocket or tie it on a cord to hang around your neck or waist. Another option is to place a hand warmer packet on your water filter.

5. How do you know when to replace your water filter?

One of the surest ways to know when your portable water filter needs replacing is when the flow rate decreases significantly .

If you are trying to drink clean water and little is coming into your mouth, this means the filter is probably clogged with contaminants and needs replacing.

You can also note the filter capacity for how many gallons your water filter is rated and keep track of how much water you are cleaning. Another recommendation is to throw it out when it gets to within 10% of its expected lifespan.

We recommend picking up a travel insurance policy before traveling to Africa. It can cover surprise visits to a medical clinic and protect your belongings should they get lost or damaged.

Once you know what to look for, buying a water filter is not that difficult. We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to make the best choice for you.

We want your Uganda experience to be a happy one without worrying about sickness due to unhealthy water. Traveling with a good water filter will give you peace of mind.

Travelers often boil water to make it safe for drinking. Does salt make water boil faster?

What type of purification system are you planning on using? Have a tip or a question? Join me in the comments below!

Hi, I'm Bryan Haines . And I'm a co-founder of Storyteller.Travel . I'm a traveler and photographer.

I also blog about photography on Storyteller Tech .

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The Best Portable Water Filters for Travel: 27 Perfect Options, and Why You Need One to Save Money and Stay Healthy

For adventurous wanderers, a portable water filter for travel is insufficient.  a portable water purifier is necessary.

A major mistake that many travelers make is assuming that because they have the best filtered water bottle or travel water filter available that they are ready to drink from any water source in any place, but the average portable water filter (such as Lifestraw) doesn’t remove viruses – and that’s the major flawe that should drive your decision. 

For adventurous international travelers that may end up in rural back country or the urban sprawl of a developing nation, in areas frequented by people and animals, a true portable water purifier is necessary to turn tap water into safe drinking water for the average North American or European. 

Below, we’ve listed all of the travel water purifier options on the market suited for adventurous international travelers aiming to keep their pack small

Click here to jump to our list of the Best Travel Water Purifier Options

The most important reason drinking dirty water is such a risk, and why is drinking purified water so important: traveler’s diarrhea, parasitic infections, and gastrointestinal diseases.

We all want our travels to be as enjoyable as possible – enjoyment is specifically why we travel. Drinking “dirty” water, or more specifically water from an unpurified source that potentially carries bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and parasitic helminths, can quickly ruin your health and weeks of travel.

According to the CDC , most of the organisms that cause the much dreaded “traveler’s diahrea” can be transferred, and are most commonly acquired, through contaminated and unpurified water sources. This is why having a water purifier when traveling adventurously, to places throughout SouthEast ASia, South America, the Middle East, and Africa, is so important. In countries with poor hygiene (think, handwashing practices after using the bathroom and food handling practices in the kitchen) and inadequate sanitation practices (keep an eye on whether trash is sanitarily stored before disposal, or sits in the open and how sewage is disposed of) common water sources can become very contaminated carrying.

Though you can review CDC’s drinking and eating recommendations by country , generally avoiding drinking unfiltered tap water in South America, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa is a reasonable safe practice to take on that has kept me healthy during my travels.

So if we can’t drink tap water in most countries, what can we drink? And why is a portable water filter or purifier essential for travel in SEA, South America, and my other favorite destinations?

Why you need a portable water filter: To avoid disposable water bottle trash and protect yourself by knowing your water is clean.

Straight forward, here are the reasons you want to travel with a water purifier or at least a water filter .

• Drinking tap water is not a safe option in most of Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South America, the Middle East, and Africa
• When traveling through Southeast Asia, South America, adventures and off-grid destinations, the free “filtered water” may be insufficiently filtered or may have been standing too long to be safe
• In some locations, local vendors have been known to refill water bottles with tap water. To get around this, carry a purifier or filter to be safe when adventuring through rural destinations.
• Extensive environmental damage from plastic water bottle related waste is destroying beaches in some of our favorite destinations

Carbon packed water filters generally improve water taste and quality

• Constantly drinking bottled water when traveling is an unnecessary cost to your wallet. ($60 to $90 additional per month)

Drinking tap water is not an option in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, South America, the Middle East, and Africa

As we’ve reviewed, if you are traveling to some of the best destinations in the world, or wandering through some of the best cities for nomads and backpackers the tap water is not drinkable, for your safety and by the Center for Disease Control recommendations

When traveling through Southeast Asia, South America, adventures and off-grid destinations, the free “filtered water” may be insufficiently filtered, or may have been standing too long to be drinkable

Many welcoming and wonderful hostels and restaurants throughout South America and Southeast Asia are kind enough to offer free water for guests, in hopes of reducing water bottle waste and keeping their customers healthy. This is the kind of beautiful hospitality that makes travel to adventurous destinations around the world wonderful, however, wary travelers, especially those with sensitive digestive systems, should be wary.

Whereas some locations, like in Bali, have a standard process of delivering disinfected water, many other places have a less standard approach – perhaps a pitcher of filtered water or water from an unlabeled 5 gallon water bottle. If these bottles aren’t labeled with clear indications that they have been commercially disinfected and purified and delivered sealed, your best bet – to avoid a bout of traveler’s diarrhea – is to either stick to sealed, purified sources of water or use your own purification/filtration process in addition to the filtered water.

Though many hostels and hotels likely do only use water with a high level of purification, there is a very risk that a substandard filtration system or that the properly filtered water has been sitting exposed too long. Here, at my nomadic base in Bali, as a complement of beautiful island lifestyle, even bottled water poured into a cup and allowed to sit for a few days can collect mold, bugs, or waterborne bacteria that can ruin a week of travel – and the same can happen to a dilapidated water filter out of view in the back.

To avoid the risk of overestimating the water filtration capabilities, simply use the water (which may not be perfect but is far better than tap water) and pair it with one of the water purifiers on this list to ensure the best health possible and leave the risks for other, more worthwhile adventures.

In remote locations of developing countries, some local vendors have been known to refill water bottles with tap water – carry a purifier to be safe when adventuring through rural destinations to re-filter questionable bottled water

During my motorbike travels through far northern and rural Vietnam and into very rural Laos, finding a recognizable brand of bottled water was uncommon, but worse, finding a 100% trustworthy brand was difficult, simply because many of the water bottles had been sitting for so long. “Aged” water isn’t a problem however in some rural destinations, unscrupulous shopkeepers (around the world) have been know to refill used water bottles with tap water (not disinfected) ultimately putting you at risk without knowing it.

If you’ll be in a far off destination where the source of water (even bottled water) will be questionable, carrying a source for purification – such as a quick UV light – is an excellent choice.

Extensive environmental damage from plastic water bottle related waste is destroying beaches in some of my favorite destinations

Personally, the best reason for carrying a good water filter or purifier, aside from avoiding the unpleasantness of the sickness that comes from unsafe drinking water, is to avoid creating more disposed plastic bottles.

Some of the places that had potential to be the most beautiful places I’ve visited were beaches and destinations with thousands of miles of coastline ruined by trash washed ashore. This picture of Bali, just south of tourist beaches south of Canggu and north of Seminyak, shows the plastic that washes ashore everyday during the wet season.

In developing countries with weaker trash disposal infrastructure, such as on Indonesia and the island of Bali, plastic that is “disposed of” commonly ends up in piles that are stacked and rarely end up in landfills, but more likely wash out to sea – eventually returning to ruin potentially beautiful shores as this picture shows.

Every single plastic bottle you use takes around 450 years to decompose as detailed in this article by WWF on the life of plastics and impact on the environment.

Even the most conservative filters can filter 150+ liters of water, equating to at least 150 bottles. If you’re in Southeast Asia and use a water filter instead of purchasing bottles of water, you’ve effectively saved 150 plastic bottles from washing ashore or into delicate ocean ecosystems.

Some places you may travel to (parts of the US for instance) may have potable, disinfected water, but the chemicals used (such as chlorine), or the water source (near volcanic lands) can leave the water drinkable but with off odors and tastes.

In water bottle filters, such as the **Lifestraw Go water bottle**, often have carbon packed filters and carbon is generally excellent at not only filtering water but improving the flavor.

Constantly drinking bottled water when traveling is an unnecessary cost to your wallet ($60 to $90 extra per month).

The average person needs 2 to 3 liters day minimum, and the average liter of bottled water costs roughly $1.

That means every 30 days you will spend $60 to $90 minimum if you plan on bottled water as your source of water. That $60 to $90 is the equivalent of 2 to 3 days of accommodation, food, and enjoyment in most destinations in Southeast Asia and South America.

Do your travels a favor – get a filter, skip the bottled water, and save the extra money.

The best solution for your health, and the environment: Refill a reusable water bottle with available potable water, and filter or purify for your safety

Ultimately, the best way to save money, save trash, and save yourself the trouble of diarrhea is to carry a well rated and effective water purification method you are confident in.

Pair that water purifier or filtration device with a good reusable water bottle – such as a **Smart Kanteen** or a **Nalgene** – and you’ll be able to have safe, clean water, virtually anywhere, without destroying the beach you flew across the world to get to.

However, not all water filter and purifier devices are made equal.

Let’s talk about how to find a good way to filter and purify water, appropriate to your travels.

The Difference Between Water Filters and Purifiers

The difference between water purifiers and water filters is purifiers use a water cleansing method that removes all harmful waterborne pathogens, chemicals, and contaminants that make water unsafe , including bacteria (like E. coli, salmonella and campylobacter), viruses (like hepatitis A, rotavirus and norovirus), protozoa , parasites (like cryptosporidium and giardia lamblia), heavy metals, and any undesirable elements in water,

Water filters simply use a filtration method, forcing water through a filtration medium that separates solids larger than the pores from the water , while potentially allowing contaminants smaller than the absolute pore size of the filtration medium through to the discharged, filtered water.

While purified water can be trusted to be safe and drinkable, some water filters have a pore size that is too large to filter out viruses, heavy metals (which are dangerous to consume), and chemicals.

Types of Water Filters, Filtration Methods, and Purification Methods **

• Mechanical straining and filtration (pushing through pores of a filtration medium)
• Electro – Adsorption
• Chemical Disinfection: Iodine
• Chemical Disinfection: Chlorine Bleach
• Ultraviolet Disinfection

Your average portable water filter isn’t good enough, so, what do we need in a travel ready portable water purifier ?

A travel water purifier should be contained in a bottle or in a very small, self-contained package, be able to remove any likely waterborne threats, last for the duration of your trip, and be easy to use.

Criteria for a good travel water filter:

• Eliminates viruses, bacteria, and protozoa/parasites: Filtering chemicals and heavy metals would be a great plus but isn’t necessary
• Long Life: The best travel water filter options have a useful life that will last on an extended trip (3-6+ months) and for the length of your trip. This accounts for durability and filter life
• Brand, Reputation, Reviews: From a reliable brand with a product that is reviewed well on multiple platforms (Amazon, blogs, etc.) – reputation and reviews are good assurance that the product will last through the adventures
• Small, self-contained design: Must be very packable no larger than a small pocket at max
• Clean, simple design: Avoid contraptions with external hoses that can break or snag

Also consider these options:

Consider getting a purification system that is an “EPA designated water purifier.” According to the CDC, “Filters that claim Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) designation of water “purifier” undergo company-sponsored testing to demonstrate removal of at least 106 bacteria (99.9999%), 104 viruses (99.99%), and 103  Cryptosporidium  oocysts or  Giardia  cysts (99.9%).”

Any water filtration systems that are EPA designated water purifiers will be good in most places, excluding the possibility of chemical contamination or heavy metal contamination in the water.

For areas that have high human or animal activity (such as most cities) and poor sanitation practices and conditions, a filtration or purification method removes viruses is recommended by the CDC . Ultrafiltration (remove particles of 0.01 microns), nanofiltration (remove particles of 0.001 microns), and reverse osmosis (can remove particles of 0.0001 microns) are capable of filtering out viruses and enteric pathogens.

Filters with pore sizes of 0.001 microns or smaller are capable of removing chemicals and organic molecules.

Reverse osmosis filters, which pore sizes of 0.0001 µm [0.1 nm] and smaller) can remove salts, desalinating water, and remove dissolved metals.

(Source: CDC Recommended water disinfection practices )

The main types of portable water purifiers and water filter bottles

• UV Light and UV Purifier Options: Effectively use ultraviolet light to disinfect water against bacteria, parasites, and parasites, but can be less effective in cloudy water.
• Activated carbon filter cartridge options: Activated carbon effectively asdorbs (chemically attaches to thus removing from water), organic compounds, inorganic compounds and chemicals, like chlorine and iodine, and thus improves the odor and flavor of water. Howver, activated carbon filters are generally not rated for microbe removal and do not kill microorganisms, so are often paired with another disinfection/filtration method.
• Chemical Purifiers: Chlorine compounds and iodine are common examples of chemical disinfectants that are effective against bacteria and viruses
• Gravity filters or pump filers: Use a porous medium to push water through, removing microbes of a designated size or larger. These commonly don’t remove viruses, unless there is an electrochemical filter added to the normal medium. Judge these filters, and what they filter, based on their absolute pore size, not their nominal pore size.

Note: No matter what filter you have, always avoid potential chemical and heavy metal contaminated water sources at all costs.  Even most “purifiers” don’t remove these elements well enough to risk it.

Additionally, avoid water sources that have potential viral contamination (from waste of humans or animals) if you are using a water filter that isn’t rated (by absolute pore size) to filter out viruses.

Why do viruses matter in choosing a travel water purifier?

Viruses are microscopic organisms, much smaller than parasites and bacteria, that when ingested cause disease and are transferred via contact with animal or human waste (i.e., feces, urine).  In North America and Europe, the risk of viruses in tap water and rural water sources is low.  Unfortunately, when traveling in rural areas  and urban centers of developing countries differences in customs and infrastructure standards, compared to North America and Europe, can often lead to contaminated water supplies.

1. Bathing and water disposal in rural lakes and streams often contaminates rural water sources with viruses from humans

Customs, such as bathing in local water sources and disposing of waste in drainage runoffs that lead to local water sources, make most international, rural water sources very likely to be contaminated with viruses from human waste.

2. Leaks and unidentified breaks of underground pipes in developing countries can mix wastewater with freshwater and leave viruses in tap water without any clear warning

For these two reasons (local customs and degraded infrastructure) ensure your portable water filter is capable of removing viruses, in addition to bacteria and protozoa/parasites when you travel abroad.

Questions to ask when choosing the best portable water filter or purifier for you**

Questions to ask about your needs and your travels

• What do you need to filter out? Bacteria, parasites, viruses, chemicals, or metals?
• Where will you be traveling? What are the common contaminants or situations you’ll face? (Check the CDC websites)

Questions to ask about the water filter or purifier you purchase

• Does it remove the contaminants from the water that you are likely to face while traveling?
• How long (time or gallons/liters of water) is it good for? How easily can the filtration system be replaced?**
• What special issues are there for the filter? Doesn’t work with cloudy water? Doesn’t improve taste? Requires a separate container? — And will these limitations be ok for your planned travels?

HUGE WARNING: Always avoid farm and industrial waste runoff.  These sources are more likely to contain chemicals and heavy metals and few portable water purifiers reliably remove these elements.

Be sure to check the CDCs food and drink recommendations. ( CDC Travel Site Link )

Best travel water purifier options, 1. the grayl water purifier bottle.

• 2. The Sawyer Select S2 and S3 Filter Bottles
• 3. Lifesaver Liberty 

4. Etekcity Personal Filter

Additional Options

• Sawyer mini water filter**
• Lifestraw Go

The water purification new kid on the block, The Ultralight Grayl Water Purifier Filter Bottle is an excellent open for purifying water while traveling with a french press style design and function and easy to replace filters.

• What it filters: Viruses, Bacteria, Protozoa/Parasites, some Chemicals, some Heavy Metals
• What it doesn’t filter: Filters everything
• Lifespan (in liters & days): 150 liters per filter, 37 days of water at 4 liters per day
• Replacement filter costs : $25
• Recommended region & use: Great for any region of travel, compact enough for any type of travel
• Brand Reliability & Reviews : The Grayl water purifier is a new product and receiving many great reviews but reviewers have stated that when repeatedly using murky or sediment heavy sources, the Grayl can clog much more quickly (~1 week of routine use in the backcountry). Pro Tip: Avoid this and extended the by filtering your water with a bandana or t-shirt before purifying with the Grayl.
• Bottom Line: A new product receiving great reviews but limited by filter life (1 month). The Grayl Water Purifier Filter Bottle appears to be a great short-term travel water purifier, just remember to bring an extra filter from home if you’ll be gone longer than a month. Not recommended for RTW trips.

Purchase the Grayl Water Purifier Bottle on Amazon or REI

2. the sawyer select s2 and s3.

• What it filters: Viruses, Protozoa, Chemicals, Pesticides
• What it doesn’t filter: Heavy metals
• Lifespan (in liters & days): 484 liters, 121 days at 4 liters of water per day

Purchase the Sawyer S2 on Amazon or at REI

• What it doesn’t filter: You’re covered for everything with the S3
• Lifespan (in liters & days): 242 liters, 60 days at 4 liters of water per day
• Recommended region & use: The S2 and S3 are capable of filtering water commonly available in urban centers and rural areas of the developing world.
• Replacement filter costs: Replacement filters not available
• Brand Reliability & reviews: Sawyer is renowned for great portable water filter options for the backcountry. Sawyer’s newest additions (the S2 and S3) perform the job of filtering out nasties very well.  Users have reported frustration on occasion with difficulty manually squeeze water through the filtration system and with an odd flavor for the first several uses of the system.  
• Bottom Line:

Purchase the Sawyer S3 on Amazon or REI

3. lifesaver liberty.

• Lifespan (in liters & days): 2000 liters, 500 days at 4 liters per day
• Replacement filter costs: $40
• What it filters: Viruses, Bacteria, Protozoa/Parasites
• What it doesn’t filter: Chemicals, Heavy Metals
• Recommended region & use: Suitable for everywhere – originally designed for disaster relief efforts
• Brand Reliability & reviews – What are other people saying?: Large and cumbersome (similar to a coffee thermos) but a suitable option for reliable water if you’ll be spending extended time in the bush.
• Bottom Line: This is the only filter water bottle with an inline pump, meaning you won’t have to suck the water through, just pump. Additionally, a detachable hose allows you to refill from streams but remove it and tuck it away while on the move.  The Liberty is the newest among our travel appropriate portable water purifier bottles…but that remains to be proven.

• Lifespan (in liters & days): 1500 liters, 375 days at 4 liters per day
• Replacement filter costs: Filter not replaceable
• What it filters: Bacteria and Protozoa/Parasites
• What it doesn’t filter: Some viruses
• Recommended region & use: Not for travel (see reviews)
• Brand Reliability & reviews – What are other people saying: Though this filter cleans water very well, sucking water through the straw is extremely taxing and not worth the work. This filter is more for a survival scenario as a last resort than adventurous travel situation where you to use it.  Additionally, there isn’t clear evidence on the manufacturers site of tests proving the filter can remove viruses.
• Bottom Line: Designed for survivalists and should be combined with chemical or UV purification for safety. Travelers should look elsewhere

Other Popular Portable Water Filter options, and why they’re inadequate (but still awesome)

The following portable water filters are beloved by their following but are inadequate for international travel as they do not filter out viruses. The Sawyer Mini, Lifestraw, MSR Trailshot, and Survivor Straw Filter all contain pore filter sizes too large to remove all viruses.   See how your favorite portable water filter pore size stacks up against common viruses

Average Virus Size:  0.004 to 0.1 microns

Common Viruses and Sizes:

Hepatitis A, 0.004 microns

Rotavirus, 0.004 microns

Norwalk, 0.004 microns

The Best Travel Water Filter Options and Filtration Capabilities

Sawyer mini.

• What it doesn’t filter: Vruses – Doesn’t filter Hepatitis A, Rotovirus and Norwalk virus
• Filter Pore Size: .1 Micron

The Sawyer Mini is available on Amazon and at REI

Msr trailshot.

• What it doesn’t filter: Viruses – Doesn’t filter Hepatitis A, Rotovirus and Norwalk virus
• Pore Size: .2 Microns

The MSR Trailshot is available on Amazon and at REI

Lifestraw ( lifestraw go , lifestraw universal , and original lifestraw ).

• Filter Pore Size: .2 Microns

Available on Amazon and REI

Survivor Straw Filter

• Pore Size: .05 microns

Ultimate List of the Best Portable Water Filters for Travel

Water Purifiers

• Water to Go Water Bottles (Classic, Active, and Go!) – https://watertogousa.com/
• Lifesaver 4000UF – https://iconlifesaver.com/product/lifesaver-bottle/?v=7516fd43adaa
• Grayl Geopress – https://grayl.com/products/24oz-geopress-filter-purifier-water-bottle-nature-edition
• Grayl Ultralight Water Purifer – https://grayl.com/products/16oz-ultralight-compact-filter-purifier-water-bottle
• Epic Water Filters – Ultimate Travel OG Water Bottle – https://www.epicwaterfilters.com/products/ultimate-travel-bottle-og
• Sawyer S1 Select Water Filter – https://www.sawyer.com/products/s1-select-water-filter
• Sawyer S3 Select Water Filter – https://www.sawyer.com/products/s3-select-water-filter
• OKO Original with Level 2 Filter – https://okoh2o.com/product/oko-original/
• Katadyn BeFree . 6L – https://www.katadyngroup.com/us/en/8019639-katadyn-befree-0.6-us~p10915

Ultraviolet Disinfection Options

• Waatr Crazy Cap – https://waatr.com/pages/crazycap
• Katadyn Steripen Ultralight – https://www.katadyn.com/us/us/72078-ULL-MP-EFG-UltraLight
• Katadyn Steirep Adventurer Opti – https://www.katadyngroup.com/us/en/ado-mp-efg-steripen-adventure-opti-uv-water-purifier~p6693

Water Filters (Do Not Remove Viruses)

• Lifestraw Go – https://lifestraw.com/products/lifestraw-go-1l
• Lifestraw Go Stainless Steel – https://lifestraw.com/products/lifestraw-go-steel
• Lifestraw – https://lifestraw.com/products/lifestraw-go-1l
• Lifestraw Flex – https://lifestraw.com/products/lifestraw-flex
• Lifestraw Universal – https://lifestraw.com/products/lifestraw-universal
• Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System – https://www.sawyer.com/products/mini-water-filtration-system
• Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System (Models SP129, SP131, SP137) – https://www.sawyer.com/products/squeeze-water-filtration-system
• Sawyer Bottle Water Filtration System – https://www.sawyer.com/products/bottle-water-filtration-system
• Aquapure Traveller Filtered Water Bottle for Travel – https://purehydration.com/products/aquapure-traveller
• Katadyn Vario Filter – https://www.katadyn.com/en/de/251-8014932-katadyn-vario-eu
• https://seychelle.helpscoutdocs.com/article/51-what-do-seychelle-products-reduce-from-tap-water
• Sawyer Personal Water Filter Bottle – https://www.sawyer.com/products/personal-water-filtration-bottle
• MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter – https://www.msrgear.com/water-treatment/filters-and-purifiers/miniworks-ex-microfilter/56425.html
• NSF Guide to Water Filtration Standards 42, 53, 44, 55, etc. https://www.nsf.org/consumer-resources/articles/standards-water-treatment-systems

Recommended Water Bottles

• Klean Kanteen

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Portable Water Filter for Travel Options

How do you filter water while traveling.

Water should be filtered using a portable travel filter with an absolute pore size smaller than the largest contaimant (e.g., bacteria, viruses, parasites) that you will face during your travels. Be sure to operate the filter according to manufacturer specific instructions based on its function as a gravity filter or pump/suction filter.

Which portable water filter is best?

The Grayl water bottle purifier is currently the best, safest, and most convenient water bottle purifier for travelers.

Do travel water filters work? How effective are portable filters?

Travel water filters fo work, however, each travel water filter is only as effective as its tested specifications at removing microbes of the declared absolute micron filtration size.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carlos is a nomad, slow traveler, and writer dedicated to helping others live abroad and travel better by using his 7+ years of experience living abroad and background as a management consultant and financial advisor to help other nomad and expats plot better paths for an international lifestyle. Click here to learn more about Carlos's story.

Via Travelers: 11 Best Travel Water Purifiers of 2022

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April 17, 2024

April 15, 2024

11 Best Travel Water Purifiers of 2022

Written by Kyle Kroeger

Are you planning to travel around the world? If yes, a travel water purifier is a must for your health. Here is a list of some of the best options to try.

Are you backpacking across Europe?

Or, are you planning a romantic getaway to Paris ? In all cases, you need to be careful about water quality.

On the one hand, most countries worldwide have poor water quality. On the other hand, you’ll find plenty of sketchy brands selling ‘bottled water’ that is repackaged tap water. In both cases, it’s a health hazard.

Even if you’re buying original purified water from a known brand, it can still get expensive.

Why not make a one-time investment instead?

In this guide, I’ll discuss the best water filters for traveling to help you select a travel water purifier for your next vacation.

October 20, 2023

Kyle Kroeger

Explore more content, sawyer squeeze water filter system, water filter, water filtration, portable water filtration, travel water filters, best water filters, sawyer products micro squeeze water filtration system, best water filter for camping, best portable water filter, media mentions.

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Home » blogs » Top 6 Travel Water Filters That Actually Work (Comprehensive Guide)

Top 6 Travel Water Filters That Actually Work (Comprehensive Guide)

A travel water filter needs to be the right type for you and remove the nasties that make you sick. Guess what? Most water filters for travelling (even the famous ones!) do not take out viruses or heavy metals . I know, it’s crazy. So, what is the best travel water filter for 2020? This is one of the most comprehensive travel water filter reviews you’ll find. We’ve done all the research so you don’t have to.

Our Thorough Criteria

Below I highlight the 6 top travel water filters out there. I’ve looked across the travel water filter categories (travel water filter bottle, straw travel water filter etc.) and have highlighted the pros and cons of each.

We only bought one personal travel water filter, so we can only give our user experience of that. But before we bought one we did heap loads of research into different travel water filters.

When looking at which travel water filters are best, we looked at all this criteria:

• Size of micron they filter down to
• Price (some are blooming expensive!)
• Number of types of filter built in (e.g a carbon filter, pre-filter, ultra filter)
• Portability (some are waaay too big for certain types of travel)
• Independent research on the water filter (where available)
• The amount of water it can filter before replacing the different filter parts
• Customer reviews

We looked at a whopping 23 different water filter/purification products and 10 different brands in our blogs on this subject. It took ages. 

We Don’t Care About Brands

Our reviews are product based, not brand based. We don’t care about brands, just what works. Hence why you will see more than one product from a brand featured in our reviews (both the good and the less good reviews!). We also receive no sponsorship from any of the brands we’ve looked at. 

We will update this blog regularly to include the most up to date products. Do let us know if you know of a product we haven’t included!

On this page I have used affiliate links. This means we make a little pocket money if you buy anything through the links we have given. Don’t worry, it won’t cost you a penny and we will never suggest buying pants products and have done comprehensive research to pull together this list.  We rejected a lot of water filters in the process which we feel aren’t up to scratch .

Our Recommended Travel Water Filter

Our recommended product is the Survivor Filter PRO . We never recommend products that we haven’t tried out or wouldn’t take travelling with us if we were to do it all again.

*LifeSaver do not publish the micron sizes of their filters.  They point out it is very hard to ensure filter microns are of a certain size across the whole filter, so instead rely on test results.  There are unconfirmed reports from non-affiliated groups that state the LifeSaver Liberty Bottle filters down to 0.015 microns (slightly less than Survivor Filter Pro) and that the LifeSaver Jerry Can filters down to 0.02 microns. Given the percentage of viruses removed in the testing, I think it is probably a fairly accurate estimate.

Our Number 1 Travel Water Filter

The survivor filter pro.

This is our brilliant travel water filter! We’ve been using it solidly for 9 whole months and it’s working very well.

It stood out for affordability combined with water filtration capacity, the level of nasties it filters out and ease of use. It is also a lightweight travel water filter.

How does the Survivor Filter PRO work?

The Survivor Filter PRO has 3 filters, which in the world of water filtering is sh*t loads.

It works by putting the inlet hose and pre-filter (the 1st filter) into the water and then pumping using the push handle. Pumping pulls the water up via the inlet hose through the pre-filter, which removes particulates such as silt, as well as protozoa and bacteria (the nasties).

The water then goes through the pump itself and is pushed through a carbon filter (the 2nd filter) to remove heavy metals (no nothing to do with Slipknot) and chemicals.

The water is then pushed through the inner ultra filter (the 3rd filter), taking out the remaining nasties such as viruses, as it passes through and out into your clean water container. And boom, you have clean water.

What we think of the Survivor Filter PRO

12 months into our epic travelling adventure and the Survivor Filter PRO is working fabulously.

For us, it was affordable as the filter itself is cheaper than many others out there. The replacement parts were also affordable (unlike other filters on the market!). The Survivor Filter Pro was the only one at a reasonable price range that takes out all the nasties which could make us sick. It has an impressively tiny 0.01 micron ultra filter. This travel water filter  has also stood up to independent scientific testing .

We used it a lot when trekking deep in the Himalayas and in all other places we’ve visited (Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka Guyana, Suriname, Brazil and Colombia). We haven’t got sick.

Survivor Filter is a small friendly Canadian company, and their customer service is great. I contacted them to get a back-up set of hoses, which weren’t available on the UK Amazon site. They went above and beyond to ship these to me if I paid by PayPal. These arrived within a week from Canada. All products also come with a lifetime warranty, so it means we don’t have to be worried about it breaking.

The Less Good

We love our Survivor Pro travel water filter, but we are honest travel bloggers, so here are the negatives. So, as far as the not so great stuff goes, once the carbon filter starts wearing out it get really tough to pump, this took 6 months of solid use for us though.

It can also be really fiddly to clean. With lots of different parts you have to develop a proper system to make sure each part is properly cleaned.

It can also be difficult to fill up Camelbaks, other filter products have adapters to fill up Camelbaks so I would urge Survivor Filter to look into producing one.

It also feels a tiny bit flimsy due to the plastic, but we’ve used it solidly for 9 months and it’s been fine. There are reports of the pump handle breaking. However if you push down directly (not at an angle) this situation should be avoided.

Useful tips when using the Survivor Filter PRO

The need for spare bits and bobs.

Bring spare carbon filters if you are away for a long time. I did bring a spare carbon filter as I knew we would use more than 2,000 litres whilst away. But we had to change it up earlier than expected (around 1,200 litres) as it got harder and harder to use. It gave us both arm burn! To be honest 1,200 litres is sh*t loads and a lot better than ALL other carbon filters out there.

Sturdy container required

Get a decent sturdy container to fill up with the dirty water before you pump it. Unless you are pumping it directly from a stream like a proper adventurer of course!

Oh no, not clogs

I am not talking about the shoes they wear in Russia. Most products out there can get clogged and their filter life becomes reduced when using the filter in murky water. We have always tried to filter using clear water. This is usually easy as 90% of the time we filter tap water. But if you are on a multi-day hike this isn’t always possible. You can filter water through a cloth (muslin works well) first to remove the stuff that can clog your pre-filter. It may require another container to do this.

Brrrr, it’s cold in here

Don’t let the filter freeze! This was tricky in the Himalayas as it was bloody cold and we couldn’t dry the filter properly before packing it away. We shook out the parts, packed them away then slept with the filter in our sleeping bags. Nothing like cuddling up to a water filter am I right? This worked well in -10 degrees centigrade.

A salty issue

You cannot filter the salt out of seawater. Salt water will destroy most filters. You need a commercial desalination filter to do this. Beware that the tap water in some beach destinations is actually quite salty as we found out in Malapascua, Philippines!

Particles in suspension

As with any portable water filter, dissolved chemicals will not be filtered out as it can only filter out particles in suspension (I know, weird right?). They’ve done heap loads of independent testing on this travel water filter, so check it out .

Weird pricing

Survivor Filter sell through Amazon.co.uk, although prices are more expensive in the UK (booooo) than in the US and Canada. So if you are based over there you’ll pick up the filter and parts for less!

Fun fact: You can filter your pee.

But it will likely still taste of pee. The carbon filter doesn’t take out taste.

Maintain it folks

When it comes to maintenance of the Survivor Filter Pro, it is recommended you:

• Clean and dry it out after every use
• Keep the plunger plied with vegetable oil
• Soaking some parts in vinegar (although we haven’t managed to do that yet…)

Best Travel Water Filter 2

Survivor filter pro x electric water filter.

The Survivor Filter PRO X is the world’s first electric handheld portable pump filter. It’s pretty damn cool.

It is the electric version of the Survivor Filter PRO (the one above). It uses the same filtration technology and has an awesome 3 filters.

How does the Survivor Filter Pro X work?

Pop the inlet hose into the water source and the outlet hose into a container, push the button and ta-da it starts filtering!

If filtering manually gives you sore arms and you have a bigger budget than us, this is a good water filter for you. It can be powered by battery, by mains or by powerpack using a USB cable.

Find out more about the Survivor Filter Pro X .

Best Travel Water Filter 3

Lifesaver liberty.

This uses the same technology as the original LifeSaver bottle but has a pump within it. This makes it the world’s first in-line pump / bottle combo. Pretty damn cool!

How does the LifeSaver Liberty work?

To use as a bottle filter you remove the bottom and fill it up. Then you pump 3 times to pressurise the bottle, open the lid, put the valve to your mouth and open it. The pressure will pump the dirty water through the filter, cleaning it before pushing it into your mouth.

To use it as an actual pump you attach the 5 foot hose, dangle the other end in the water and pump – drawing the water up and pushing it through the filter, delivering clean water into whatever container you want.

Best Travel Water Filter 4

Grayl ultralight purifier.

How does the Grayl Ultralight Purifier work? 

The Grayl Ultralight Purifier is a travel water filter bottle. The Grayl works like a coffee press.

Fill up the main bottle with dirty water, then insert the inner filter and squish until it is in place. The pressing motion pushes the water through the filtration cartridge.

The cartridge uses a mesh that is positively charged that attracts and hangs on to the nasties via electroadsorption (so microns are not relevant with this filter), removing them from the water that passes through.

The activated carbon element then absorbs chemicals and heavy metals to remove these. High tech, I know!

To note, Grayl also has the Geopress which has a larger capacity  (710ml) and a larger filtration capacity (250 litres). But is more expensive at £80 and still has the same cons around it being a little difficult to use and not having much capacity before having to replace cartridges.

Best Travel Water Filter 5

Survivor filter straw.

I am gunna be honest, I am not a fan of straw filters. I don’t want to put my face in a puddle to drink water. But lots of people do like them, and the Survivor filter one is the best.

How does the Survivor Filter Straw work? 

The Survivor Filter Straw has a triple-filtration system. The cotton pre-filter prevents larger particulates such as silt from entering the straw and main filter.

The ultra filter membrane filters down to 0.05 microns (which is pretty tiny) as water is drawn up or pushed through it. This is wayyy better than both the popular Lifestraw Flex and the Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System (a straw) which only filter down to 0.2 and 0.1 so don’t remove viruses.

The mouthpiece contains an in-built carbon filter to take out chemicals, heavy metals and reduce odour and taste. It can be used as a straw from water sources directly or attached to standard bottles or collapsible canteens to squeeze water through. Pretty nifty.

Best Travel Water Filter 6

Lifesaver jerry can .

This water filter is a great family or group option, and could be useful for camping trips or travelling around in a camper van. As it’s quite large, it’s not for backpackers though.

How does the LifeSaver Jerry Can  work? 

It’s basically a big jerry can, which you fill with water, pump and then the water comes out the bottom through a small tap. You can store dirty water in the can and filter when needed at a flow rate of 3 litres per minute. This starter pack  represents good value as you get a shower head and 5 spare carbon filters. 

The LifeSaver Jerry Can filters out 99.9% of viruses so not quite as good as the LifeSaver Liberty Bottle but better than most out there and has carbon filters too. This jerry can has a 18.5 litre capacity and will filter 10,000 litres of water. You can also get a jerry can that filters  20,000 litres of clean drinking water.  Along with  ones that hold and filter less or more depending on your needs and budget. 

The replacement filters are a bit pricey, depending on the model you get.  However, it would take ages to filter 18.5 litres  on any of the hand-held water filters mentioned above so that’s why it is good for group trips, camping and life/travel in a camper van.  For those amongst us who like to prepare for potential disasters,  this is also a good option. Just make sure you follow the steps below so the product doesn’t go past its shelf life. 

But, I can’t afford a travel water filter

We think travel water filters are the best way of ensuring the water you drink whilst travelling is safe and you avoid getting some nasty bugs. The Survivor Filter Pro is our top choice.

However, we get these aren’t for everyone. There are alternatives to travel water filters .

Huh. Why aren’t the famous Sawyer Squeeze or the Lifestraw Flex water filters in here?

Lifestraw flex vs sawyer? How about neither? And we have our reasons. Find out why we rejected some big names from our 5 best travel water filters and why.

Did you find this blog on the best travel water filters helpful?

Share the love and ensure others stay safe and healthy while travelling 🙂

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5 comments on “ Top 6 Travel Water Filters That Actually Work (Comprehensive Guide) ”

Many thanks for this review! Was wondering whether you might have any comments on the Survivor Filter Active Filtration Bottle? Kindly advise. Once again, many thanks and best regards, Anistemi

Hello Anistemi, I haven’t actually had a chance to properly look at it but plan to update this blog soon when I’ve done the research. I think the main thing is use the list of must haves at the top and see how it compares. I’d say it should be good quality as they tend to use the same filter type within all their filters. I will update it soon though, thank you for flagging it up 🙂

It seems that the level of filtration is lower with this product than with the other Survivor products. It does not seem to filter viruses. Testing reports from the manufacturer are available there: https://www.survivorfilter.com/pages/product-testing-reports

Before packing for your next trip, search the Centers for Disease Control and Protection. Select whatever country you are visiting for specifics on contamination. For example, hepatitis A is a virus found in contaminated water in many countries in the developing world, but with specific water purifying systems (not just filtering), that virus can be removed. Do you need to protect just from bacteria or also from viruses? Some systems filter to remove protozoa (such as giardia), bacteria (e-coli, salmonella, cholera) and chemicals or pesticides; some systems filter

Great website, with much useful information!

My plan is to go cycling and wildlife/birdwatching through everywhere in South-East Asia for more than a year, in Indo-China, Phillipines, Indonesia, etc. The dream is to end up in Papua New-Guinea.

While cycling in hot weather I drink about 10 liters of water a day. I don’t want to, and in many remote places I wouldn’t even be able to, buy water bottles for all of that. In Europe (and Georgia, Caucasus, where I’m now traveling) I can use my loyal Sawyer Squeeze filter and filter unlimited amounts of water everywhere, both through a big gravity system or squeezing by hand.

But unfortuntely, the Sawyer Squeeze doesn’t filter viruses out of the water, so it’s only a partial solution for South-East Asia. I don’t know whether it’s possible to buy chlorine dioxide pills/ liquid in many places in South-East Asia and I don’t want to lug around too much. I also don’t like the chemical taste and don’t know whether it’s healthy to use in large quantities for extended periods of time. I could buy a Steripen, but you can treat only one liter of water at a time, you would have to filter the water anyway, and you need to bring multiple spare batteries and possibly another light bulb.

My main options for now are the pumps Survivor Filter Pro X and MSR Guardian, or electrified chemical purifiers Aqua Research H2gO Prime and the Potable Aqua Pure.

The Survivor Filter Pro X seems awesome. It produces very clean (0.01 main filter) and tasty (carbon filter) water without effort (electronic). The downsides are that it is fairly bulky and heavy and, I’ll need one or two carbon filters and, most importantly, that it’s an electronic device and I’m a bit hesistant in placing all my trust for clean water for a year into that. A good option would be to order the manual convertion kit with it. So that, if something happens, you can still manually pump. But it will add even more to the weight and bulkiness of the set-up and the flow rate for manually pumping is really low (0.5 l per minute), which means 20 minutes of pumping for ten liters. So, I wouldn’t want to do that for extended periods.

An alternative would be the MSR Guardian, which is a fully manual pump with an exceptional flow rate of 2.5 l per minute. The downsides are that is is even bulkier and heavier than the Survivor Pro X (without the manual back-up kit), that is has only a 0.02 main filter (compared to 0.01 for the Survivor) and that it is super expensive (almost 400 dollars). It also does not have a carbon filter, so the water will taste less good. Furthermore, there are reports of the pump breaking, which could be a potential disaster and unexceptional for a pump with a price like that.

In either case, I might still bring my Sawyer squeeze filter, combined with chemical drops, as a back-up system.

On the other side are the chemical purifiers Aqua Research H2gO Prime and the Potable Aqua Pure. I couldn’t really find a difference between those two. The upsides are that they are lightweight, you only need salt and that it is easy to pair them with my existing Sawyer Squeeze filtration system. The downsides are that it is chemical, so it makes the water taste less good (although better than usual pills). And from a health perspective I also don’t want to drink a lot of chemically-treated water for a year straight.

I’m still researching and hesitating a lot. I’ll have to make a decision soon, since I’ll be leaving Georgia, Caucasus, in a month and will travel to Thailand afterwards. So, there’s only one more month to let a device ship (from potentially the US) to Tbilisi.

Thanks for any help/suggestions!

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Advertisement

The Best Faucet-Mounted Water Filter

By Tim Heffernan

Tim Heffernan is a writer who covers air and water quality and sustainable-energy technology. He prefers Flare-brand match smoke for purifier testing.

Faucet-mounted water filters eliminate many more contaminants than pitcher filters do, last longer between replacements, and give you filtered water from the sink on demand. After months of in-home testing, we’ve concluded that the Pur Advanced Faucet Filtration System is the one we’d choose for our own kitchens. It removes a wider array of contaminants than its competitors from Brita do, and it looks better, too.

Everything we recommend

Pur Advanced Faucet Filtration System

The best certifications, including for lead.

With 71 ANSI/NSF certifications, the Pur Advanced system is the top-performing faucet-mounted filter available.

Buying Options

May be out of stock

Pur Basic Faucet Replacement Filter

Standard pur replacements.

The Pur Basic filter is certified for 71 contaminants, including lead. A two-pack is enough for 200 gallons, or about six months.

Pur MineralClear Faucet Replacement Filter

Pur replacements for enhanced flavor.

The MineralClear filters have the same 71 certifications and add a (supposed) flavor-improving element. A four-pack is good for 400 gallons, or about a year.

In an unusual turn for Wirecutter, we tested only one other model for this guide, the Brita Complete Faucet Filtration System . That’s because Pur and Brita offer the only faucet-mounted filters we’ve found that are certified to NSF/American National Standards Institute standards and are widely available in North America.

The Pur Advanced faucet-mounted filter is ANSI/NSF certified for 71 contaminants, including lead, mercury, many pesticides and industrial chemicals, and 12 “emerging compounds” (PDF) that are increasingly found in US drinking-water supplies. That puts it well ahead of Brita’s faucet filters, which are certified for 56 contaminants. The Pur filter is easy to install on a standard faucet (but be aware that no faucet-mounted filters will work on those with integrated pull-out sprayers). Over months of heavy testing, the Pur Advanced proved durable, never developing leaks or other hardware problems, and its built-in flow meter and indicator light automatically signal when it’s time to replace the filter cartridge. Finally, since the Pur Advanced system is available in multiple finishes, you have a better chance of matching it with your kitchen’s hardware than you do the Brita.

The research

Who this is for, how we picked and tested, our pick: pur advanced faucet filtration system, the competition.

Faucet-mounted water filters provide filtered water on demand, making them an option for households that go through a lot of drinking water every day or for folks who want to cook or wash dishes with filtered water in addition to drinking it. Faucet-mount filters remove more contaminants than most pitcher filters, including our picks in that category , because the water pressure in the pipes means the filters can be denser and thus more effective. And the filters last longer than pitcher filters, typically three months or 100 gallons versus two months or 40 gallons.

But faucet filters have a few downsides to consider. They cannot be installed on faucets with integral pull-out sprayers—only on traditional one-piece faucets. Their water-delivery rate is not great (usually around half a gallon a minute), so it takes a while to fill a pot or a large drinking bottle. Most filter installations include a way to toggle between using the filter and using the regular tap, but if you accidentally run hot tap water through the filter, it can be damaged. If these drawbacks deter you from choosing a faucet-mounted filter, an under-sink filter may be a better option. This type of filter connects directly to the cold-water line, so there’s no risk of ruining the filter with hot water, and installing an under-sink model is only slightly more involved than mounting a faucet filter. Note, though, that neither faucet-mount nor under-sink filters dispense water as cold as you’d get from a pitcher in the fridge.

There are three final points that pertain to all types of water filter. First, you may not need one. Your water utility (if you are on a public system) is required to provide a Consumer Confidence Report, or CCR, that lists every contaminant it has tested for in the water supply, as well as the level the test found and whether that level meets Environmental Protection Agency standards. Usually you can find your local supplier’s CCR online , but they’re not always easy to track down; if it’s not on your supplier’s site, contact your supplier and request it.

Second, no faucet, pitcher, or under-sink filter should be considered a permanent solution to a chronic water problem such as elevated lead levels. If you have a chronic problem, you can use a filter as a temporary solution while you work on a permanent fix.

Finally, water that tests clean in the municipal pipes can still become contaminated as it makes its way to and through your home, as happened in Flint, Michigan , and Newark, New Jersey . In both cases, old supply pipes and in-home plumbing leached lead into the water. If you want to be totally sure of what’s in the water that emerges from your faucets, we recommend a home water test kit .

For all of our water-filter guides, we rely (and insist) on ANSI/NSF certifications. If a filter is ANSI/NSF certified, that means it has been tested in an accredited lab and has been found to reduce a given contaminant below the EPA-mandated level for drinking water. The tests are extremely rigorous: The filters are fed “challenge solutions,” each containing elevated levels of the contaminant being tested for, and are pushed beyond their official capacities—filtering a volume of challenge solution between 120% and 200% of the volume of tap water they are rated to treat. After that, to be certified, they must still reduce the challenge-solution contaminant to a level below the EPA limit.

In the case of faucet filters, our insistence on certification allowed us to narrow the available options to just two: those from Brita and those from Pur. Few other ANSI/NSF-certified faucet filters are available in North America, and none have anywhere near as many certifications. We also dismissed some uncertified options.

We called in a model from each company. Brita makes two different housings for its faucet filters, the Basic and Complete ; the latter version lets you toggle the water flow between three different settings, and that’s the model we tested. Otherwise, they are identical, and they use the same filter.

Pur offers two different housings, a horizontally oriented one (the Basic and Advanced  models) and a vertical one (the Classic ). Despite the different names, the versions perform the same when it comes to filtering water because they all use the same filters. Pur makes two filters, the Basic and the MineralClear. They have identical ANSI/NSF certifications and can work in any of the Pur housings; the MineralClear simply contains an additional calcium carbonate (limestone, by its common name) filter that, in theory, adds a “springwater” taste back to the filtered water, as a Pur product manager told us. We tested the Advanced model, which comes with a MineralClear filter.

We installed the Brita in a New York City apartment and the Pur in a home with mineral-heavy well water in the Catskills. We then used the filters for several months, noting any positive and negative aspects of each—from basic aesthetics to ease of installation to reliability, durability, and, of course, any perceived impact on water quality and taste. Combining the results of this process with the filters’ ANSI/NSF certifications produced a clear winner.

The Pur Advanced Faucet Filtration System is our pick for faucet-mounted filters. It is ANSI/NSF certified to reduce, below EPA limits, 71 contaminants including lead, mercury, multiple pesticides and industrial chemicals, and a dozen so-called emerging compounds of EPA concern in drinking water , among them pharmaceuticals, BPA, and estrone, a form of the human hormone estrogen. That’s notably better than its competitor from Brita, which has 56 certifications, none of them for emerging compounds.

We found the Pur Advanced easy to install, drip-free, and durable under heavy use, and we preferred its sleek design to that of the Brita, which is utilitarian and visually bulky. Lastly, in addition to filtering the 71 certified contaminants, the Pur continued to improve the taste and smell of our Catskills tester’s sulfurous well water for several weeks after the whole-house carbon-block filter that he normally uses to control the issue stopped doing its job. That was a pleasant surprise, since sulfur compounds are not among the Pur filter’s certifications, and removing them from water is not something this sort of filter is expected to be capable of.

The complete list of contaminants the Pur faucet filters are ANSI/NSF certified for, found in the owner manual (PDF) , include many that may already be on your mind: the toxic metals lead and mercury; multiple volatile organic compounds (VOCs); multiple pesticides, including 2,4-D ; and 12 “emerging compounds” that are increasingly showing up in the water supply, including the plastic additive BPA, the insect repellent DEET, and the widely used flame retardants TCPP and TCEP. The filters are rated for three months or 100 gallons, and the housing contains a flowmeter so you’ll know exactly when they reach their 100-gallon limit; a small LED on the housing turns from green to yellow (time’s almost up) to red (time to replace).

Installing the Pur Advanced is simple—but again, no faucet filter works on faucets with integrated pull-out sprayers. On standard, no-sprayer faucets, you just unscrew the aerator (where the water flows out of the faucet) and screw in the correct adapter. Pur supplies several adapters to match the various sizes and threading patterns of most aerators. (Our tester had no trouble installing his test model on a fairly old faucet.) Then you simply screw the filter housing into place on the adapter.

To use the Pur Advanced faucet filter (and any other), you flip a toggle on the housing to direct the water through the filter and out a separate dispenser, and you flip it back the other way to send regular, unfiltered water out of the faucet. That’s a practical design for a couple of reasons. For one, the filtered-water flow (0.52 gallon per minute) is lower than the normal faucet flow (typically around 2 gpm), so when you need a lot of water fast—filling a pot, say, or doing the dishes—it’s helpful to have the option to use the faucet itself. Second, because hot water can damage many water filters—anything over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the Pur filters’ case—you need to be able to bypass the filter when you want hot water out of the tap. Of course, this also means you have to be mindful when you want to toggle to the filtration setting: If you’ve just been drawing hot water from your faucet, switch the tap to cold for a few seconds first to clear the pipes.

The Pur filter stood up to heavy usage without developing any problems such as leaks—which was not the case for the Brita filter we also tested . “Since we have a lot of power outages that affect our ability to get water from the well, my husband and I make it a habit to regularly fill two 1½-gallon water bottles, so we always have extra water on hand,” our Pur tester wrote in his summary notes. “We refill them approximately every two days, so we were working the filters pretty hard.” Under that workload—to which our tester added regular daily fillings of glasses and coffee pots—the filters hit their 100-gallon limit in about six weeks, versus the three-month rule of thumb that Pur suggests. Just something to bear in mind if your household goes through a lot of water. Replacement filters cost about $10 ( Basic ) or $11 ( MineralClear ) apiece.

The Pur Advanced model that we tested is available in three finishes: shiny chrome, brushed metallic gray, and a tropical blue called seaglass. Each Advanced model comes with a MineralClear filter. The otherwise physically identical Classic model comes in black or white (and includes the Basic filter, which has the same ANSI/NSF certifications). Our tester installed a chrome-finish Advanced and liked its “almost deco” design, though he was quick to point out that other finishes, such as the metallic gray version we photographed for this review, don’t achieve that same effect.

All of Pur’s faucet mounts fit both the Basic and MineralClear filters; the latter contains a calcium carbonate (limestone) filter that is meant to add a pleasant, mineral-y, spring-water flavor back to the filtered water. Our tester did not notice the effect, but flavor addition is not as gimmicky as it may sound—in fact, it’s a common practice for filter makers to add such flavor enhancers to reverse-osmosis filters, which remove virtually all minerals from the water that passes through them, rendering it flavorless and flat.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

Our tester found that “the constant slight pressure you place on the filter’s valve to turn on the filtered water caused our faucet to start to come loose at its base a couple of times.” He continued: “Another contributing factor is that the shiny chrome gets dirty easily, so you’re constantly wiping it clean, which applies more pressure. It was easily fixed by tightening the faucet base whenever we noticed it happening, and I’m not sure if the same thing would happen for someone with a better faucet, but it was a mild annoyance.”

He added that the Pur’s horizontal orientation can be an issue in very small sinks, as the filter takes up a lot of real estate under the faucet. If the sink is shallow, for instance, getting a glass beneath the spout can be difficult if anything else is sitting in the basin. For our tester, it was a good incentive to keep dishes from piling up.

We also tested the Brita Complete Faucet Filtration System . In contrast to the other model in the Brita lineup, the Basic Faucet Filtration System , it lets you set the faucet to both a normal flow and, additionally, a spray pattern. That also sets it apart from Pur’s filters, which lack the spray option. Beyond that feature, however, we much prefer the Pur Advanced model. Pur’s faucet filters have significantly more ANSI/NSF certifications. The Brita filter is also not certified for mercury, whereas the Pur filters are. In our testing, the Brita persistently dripped, which led to a pink film on the filter housing, possibly the bacteria Serratia marcescens, which is often found in damp sinks and showers. (The water was draining out of the saturated filter; the faucet does not leak.) Finally, the Pur Advanced has a lower-profile design and a sleek shape that we like much better than the Brita Complete’s blocky, upright form.

The Pur Classic Faucet Filtration System uses the same filters as the Advanced but has a chunky vertical design that we don’t like nearly as much.

The Waterdrop WD-FC-01 is ANSI/NSF certified only for chlorine and for taste and odor; it is not certified to reduce lead, despite what the title on the Amazon product page suggests. The same holds true for the similar WD-FC-03 and WD-FC-06 , a stainless steel version. (They all use the same filter element.)

Culligan’s FM-25 (chrome) and FM-15A (white) are ANSI/NSF certified for only seven contaminants: chlorine, particulate Class I, cyst, turbidity, lead, lindane, and atrazine.

The iSpring DF1-WT , DF2-CL , and DF2-CHR have no ANSI/NSF certifications.

Meet your guide

Tim Heffernan

Tim Heffernan is a senior staff writer focusing on air and water quality and home energy efficiency. A former writer for The Atlantic, Popular Mechanics, and other national magazines, he joined Wirecutter in 2015. He owns three bikes and zero derailleurs.

Further reading

The Best Under-Sink Water Filter

by Tim Heffernan

The Aquasana AQ-5200 is the under-sink water filtration system we recommend.

The Big Berkey Water Filter System: Uncertified and Inconvenient

The Big Berkey Water Filter system lacks independent certification, and it’s much more expensive and less convenient to use than other options.

The Best Filtered Water Bottles

You can get cleaner, better-tasting water with a filtered bottle that can travel with you—but other filtered water options may be more convenient overall.

The Best Water Filter Pitcher and Dispenser

Water filters and pitchers are the simplest, most affordable way to get reliable filtered water at home.

• Water Filters
• Air Purifiers
• Green Living
• Healthy Food

Best Water Filter Options for Travel

You've done all you can to make sure that you have clean safe drinking water at home. But what about when you're away from home?

Bottled water is one option, but it's wasteful, expensive and inconvenient.

The better choice is some sort of portable water filter. You won't have to worry about drinking bad tasting (or maybe even dangerous) water if you have a filter with you.

In this post, you'll find recommendations for the best types of water filters to use in different travel scenarios. And I'll tell you the specific brands I think are best.

So, whether you're going on vacation or traveling for business, you'll be able to find a filter to meet your needs. 

Best Travel Water Filters

Best water filters for hotel rooms.

You never know how the water is going to taste at a hotel. I've been in some hotels where it's great, and others where it's horrible.

You don't want to be stuck drinking water straight from the bathroom faucet. Plus, you have no idea what's lurking in that water.

Why take a chance?

My favorite way to filter the water in a hotel room is with a water filter pitcher.

Of course, that assumes that I drove my car. I wouldn't want to take it on a plane.

Here's why I like it:

It takes up almost no space in the car.

And, it filters quickly - much faster than a gravity filter. Just fill up the pitcher when you first get to the room, and you'll be drinking great tasting water in no time.

The only drawback is that you probably won't be able to put it in the fridge. Those hotel refrigerators are pretty small.

I prefer to use a pitcher that I know removes fluoride , just in case the local water has fluoride in it.

My first choice is Clearly Filtered because it removes fluoride, lead, chlorine, and many other contaminants. Plus, it's made of medical grade Tritan plastic.  

This pitcher filter holds 2 quarts of water, and the filter is good for about 100 gallons .

( You can read my review of Clearly Filtered for all the details.)

Shop for the Clearly Filtered water filter pitcher at Amazon .

Shop for Clearly Filtered pitcher at ClearlyFiltered.com .  Use code  WELCOME10   for a  10% discount , only at ClearlyFiltered.com . Applies only to the purchase of a new filtration system.

If you're flying to your destination and staying in a hotel, then your best option is to take along a water bottle with a built-in filter. (Scroll down a bit to see my bottle filter recommendations.)

A filtered water bottle is handy because you can use it at the airport, on the plane, and in your hotel room. 

You just won't have the luxury of pouring yourself a glass of filtered water.

Best Water Filter Bottles for Air Travel

I'm sure you know that taking liquids through airport security is not allowed these days.

So that means you're stuck either drinking from the water fountains or buying overpriced (and eco- un friendly) bottled water in the airport.

A better idea is to pack a small portable water filtration device in your carry-on. Then you can just fill it up after you get through the security checkpoint.

Not only that, but you'll have a filter you can use once you get to your destination.

Your best bet for a convenient and effective way to filter water when you're traveling by air is a filtered water bottle.

In this category, my top recommendation is the LifeStraw Go water filter bottle . It holds 23 ounces and is made from BPA free plastic. And, you can choose from several different colors.

Shop for LifeStraw Go at Amazon .

LifeStraw Go uses two stages of filtration : 

• a hollow fiber membrane for bacteria, parasites and microplastics
• an activated carbon filter for chemicals like chlorine.

You'll get 1,000 gallons of use from the microbiological filter , but the carbon filter is only good for 25 gallons . It's unfortunate that the carbon filter has such a short life.

The good thing is that you can buy replacements for each type separately. And, the carbon filters don't cost much.

Another drawback is that the LifeStraw does not filter out fluoride .

What if you do want a bottle that filters out fluoride?

In that case, you could consider the Insulated Stainless Steel Filtered Water Bottle from Clearly Filtered . This  water bottle filter removes 99% of fluoride, along with heavy metals, VOC, pesticides, lead, chlorine, and more.

Although it's shown in black below, it also comes in white, blue, Tiffany blue, and pink.

Shop for the stainless steel filtered water bottle at Clearly Filtered .

It'll last for about 25 gallons or six months, whichever comes first .

Best Water Filters for Vacation Rentals

The most beautiful vacation homes can sometimes have nasty tasting water. It seems like it's especially bad at the beach. I always think it tastes like swamp water. Yuck!

You don't want to be forced to drink that, and you don't want to have to keep going out to buy bottled water all week long.

So what are your best options?

One is to take along a water filter pitcher . You might even want to take more than one, depending on how big your group is.

There are several good pitcher filters to choose from besides Clearly Filtered, which I highlighted above. You can read all about them in my review of this year's best water filter pitchers .

Another solution - especially if you want maximum protection - would be a countertop gravity filter . In particular, I'd recommend one made by ProOne .

Why ProOne?

First, because it removes all kinds of contaminants , including bacteria, parasites and viruses. So, it can do double duty for you as an emergency survival filter.

And second, because it's simple to use . It doesn't require additional filters for fluoride, and the filters don't need to be primed. They last a long time, too - 700 to 1200 gallons .

ProOne is available in two sizes. The ProOne Traveler+ holds 2.25 gallons and the ProOne Big+ holds 3 gallons. They're both easy to transport and provide an adequate amount of filtered water for a small group.

ProOne gravity filter

Shop for ProOne Traveler at Amazon .

Shop for ProOne Traveler+ at ProOneUSA.com .

The only drawback is that it filters slowly, so you'll have to be sure to keep up with refilling it so you don't run out.

You can read my detailed review of ProOne gravity filters here. Or take a look at Countertop Gravity Water Filters: Which is Best? to see how it compares to other popular gravity filters.

Best Water Filters for Camping

Whether you're camping in a tent or in an RV, at a campground or in the wilderness, you need clean drinking water. How you choose to camp will determine what kind of water filtration will work best for you.

Will you set up a camp site and basically stay put?

In that case, I'd recommend a gravity filter like the ProOne or  Berkey (pictured below) that you only have to fill occasionally. Use water provided by the campground or a natural water source in these filters. They'll provide you with safe water that tastes great!

Will you be on the move most of the time?

If so, you'd be better off with a personal device that you can carry with you, like one of the filtered water bottles I mentioned above .

Or maybe you'd like to combine the two. You could set up a gravity filter at your campsite, and use a water bottle filter while you're out for a hike.

Whatever method you choose, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your camping trip without worrying if the water is going to make you sick.

Conclusion: No matter how or where you travel, you've got options

I hope now you have a clear picture of ways you can enjoy great tasting and safe drinking water when you're away on your next adventure.

You don't have to spend a lot of money on a travel water filter, and it doesn't have to be complicated.

But it can make a huge impact on your health and give you peace of mind when you travel.

Have you found one particular method or brand helpful in your travels? If so, let us hear about it in the comments!

Last Updated on June 7, 2023

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Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2024

From ultralight chemical purifiers to gravity filters for large groups, we break down the top outdoor water treatment options.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Everyone exploring the backcountry needs water, but staying hydrated is not as simple as drinking straight from streams and lakes. 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). Our picks for the top backpacking water filters of 2024 include everything from ultralight squeeze filters and chemical drops to pumps and large-quantity gravity filters. For more background information, see our backpacking water filter comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Backpacking Water Filter Picks

• Best Gravity Filter for Groups: Platypus GravityWorks 4L
• Best Ultralight Filter for Solo Backpackers: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
• Best Squeeze Filter for Trail Running:   HydraPak 42mm Filter Cap
• Best All-in-One Squeeze Filter and Bottle:  LifeStraw Peak Squeeze 1L
• Best Premium Water Filter/Purifier:  MSR Guardian Purifier System
• Best Chemical Water Treatment for Backpacking:  Katadyn Micropur MP1

Best Gravity Water Filter for Groups

1. platypus gravityworks 4l ($135).

The Sawyer Squeeze epitomizes ultralight water treatment and has been a mainstay on the thru-hiking scene for years. It has a number of things going for it, including a streamlined 3-ounce build, lifetime warranty (Sawyer doesn’t even make replacement cartridges), and very reasonable price tag. It’s also extremely versatile: In its simplest application, you fill one of the two included 32-ounce pouches with dirty water and squeeze into a clean bottle or reservoir, a pot for cooking, or straight into your mouth. Sawyer also includes adapters so you can use the Squeeze as an inline filter on your hydration bladder or in a gravity setup (great for groups and basecamping) with additional bottles or reservoirs. 

The Sawyer Squeeze has seen no shortage of competition in recent years, particularly from offerings like the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze, Katadyn BeFree, and Platypus Quickdraw below. These designs address our main concern with the Sawyer: the pouches. Not only do the Sawyer’s included pouches feature flat and handle-less designs that make water collection challenging, but they also suffer from serious durability issues (we recommend using a Smartwater bottle or longer-lasting Evernew or CNOC reservoir instead). But despite our gripes, no other filter comes close to matching the Squeeze’s versatility and longevity, which are undeniable draws for those who want to get a lot out of their gear. And if you prefer to go even lighter, Sawyer also offers “Mini” and “Micro” versions, although both have painfully slow flow rates that aren’t worth the 1-ounce (or less) weight savings. See the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

Best Squeeze Filter for Trail Running

3. hydrapak 42mm filter cap ($35).

HydraPak’s new 42mm Filter Cap is the most recent in a long line of innovative squeeze filters, joining the likes of the Katadyn BeFree, Platypus QuickDraw, and LifeStraw Peak Squeeze below. Throughout the past four summers, we’ve tested each of these in succession, and the HydraPak is far and away the most impressive offering yet. Available on its own for $35, the HydraPak threads onto any 42-millimeter bottle opening (such as the soft flasks included in running vests from Salomon, Patagonia, Arc’teryx, and more) and filters water at a rate of over a liter per minute. We’ve found the HydraPak to be much easier to clean than the QuickDraw and Peak Squeeze, and it has a longer filter life (1,500 vs. 1,000L) than the BeFree.

The BeFree used to be the runaway favorite in this category, but for us, the HydraPak has swiftly overtaken it. One of the primary differences between the two filters is the nozzle design: The Flux’s cap is significantly more refined, with a solid twist and pop opening that does a great job protecting the hollow fibers inside. By contrast, the BeFree’s cheap-feeling nozzle is reminiscent of a disposable plastic water bottle, and the cap is easy to pry off if you’re not careful. We’ve also found that the HydraPak’s flow rate remains fairly constant over time, while our BeFree has slowed despite frequent maintenance. Most runners already have a soft flask or two, but if you want to purchase HydraPak’s filter with a vessel, check out the  Flux+ 1.5L and Seeker+ 3L ($55 and $60 respectively). See the HydraPak 42mm Filter Cap

Best All-in-One Squeeze Filter and Bottle

4.    lifestraw peak squeeze 1l ($44).

Type: Squeeze/gravity filter Weight: 3.9 oz. Filter life: 2,000 liters What we like: An easy all-in-one squeeze filter and bottle for personal use; more durable than the competition. What we don’t: Lower flow rate than the HydraPak Filter Cap; heavier and less versatile than the Sawyer Squeeze.

For hikers looking for a simple solution, an all-in-one squeeze filter and bottle is one of the best water treatment options. The Peak Squeeze here includes a squeeze filter similar to the HydraPak Filter Cap above, but bundles all you need into one easy package by tacking on a compatible soft flask, too. The setup excels as a handheld on trail runs and hikes when water is readily available, and can also be used to transfer clean water to a pot once in camp. Compared to standard running flasks from HydraPak (including the flask included with the BeFree below), it's noticeably durable, and the filter is decently versatile, too—like the Sawyer Squeeze, it threads onto bottles with standard-sized mouths and can also be used as a gravity filter, although you’ll have to purchase the tubing and “dirty” reservoir separately.

In parsing out the differences between the LifeStraw and its competitors, the Peak Squeeze does fall short in a few ways. For starters, it’s bulkier and heavier than pairing the HydraPak Filter Cap with a running flask (or the Katadyn BeFree), and requires a syringe (included) for proper cleaning. And unlike the Sawyer Squeeze, it only has a tube port on one end, meaning it can’t double as an inline filter with a hydration reservoir. Finally, despite its fast listed flow rate, we’ve found that the Peak Squeeze gets clogged fairly easily. But the price is right at just $44 for the 1-liter model (the 650mL bottle is $38), and it’s hard to beat the simple convenience of the design, especially compared to the Sawyer. All told, we’re more likely to recommend the Peak Squeeze for simple solo use than any other filter setup.  See the LifeStraw Peak Squeeze 1L

Best Premium Water Filter/Purifier

5. msr guardian purifier system ($390).

Similar to Aquamira drops below, Katadyn Micropur tablets are a simple and effective chemical treatment using chlorine dioxide. For backpackers, there is a strong argument for going this route: The tablets weigh less than 1 ounce for 30, making them by far the lightest water purification option on this list. In addition, each tablet is individually wrapped and therefore can be modified for the specifics of your trip (with Aquamira you have to carry both bottles no matter the length of your trip). In order to use the Katadyn, just add one tablet to a liter of water, wait 15 minutes for protection from viruses and bacteria, 30 minutes for Giardia, and four hours for Cryptosporidium.

The biggest downside of any chemical treatment is that despite the water being clean, it’s still unfiltered (in the Utah desert, for example, that may mean brown water with lots of critters). But in alpine areas with relatively clear mountain water like the Rockies, High Sierra, or Pacific Northwest, chemical treatments are a great ultralight option. And in comparing chemical treatments, it’s worth noting that despite being more difficult to use, Aquamira drops are considerably cheaper. We ran the numbers and you’re paying roughly $0.53 per liter of clean water with Katadyn whereas Aquamira is more like $0.13 per liter. Plus, the Katadyn tablets are difficult to cut in half and don’t work with 500mL bottles (it’s one tab per liter), which is a bummer especially for trail runners with smaller soft flasks. See the Katadyn Micropur MP1

Best of the Rest

7. katadyn befree 1.0l ($45).

The Platypus Gravity Works is a user-friendly gravity filter with 4 liters of volume, but basecampers and larger groups might want to take a look at the MSR AutoFlow XL here. For $10 less, the AutoFlow can store up to 10 liters of water at a time, which will help you keep your trips to the source to a minimum. At 12 ounces, it’s just a half-ounce heavier than the Gravity Works, and the inline filter passes water at an identical rate (1.75 L/min). What’s more, the MSR comes with an attachment for a wide-mouth Nalgene bottle for easy and leak-free filtering.

The primary downside to MSR’s AutoFlow system is the lack of a “clean” bag. What this means is that you can only fill up your receptacles (hydration bladder, Nalgene, cooking pot, mug, etc.) as fast as the AutoFlow can filter. On the other hand, the Platypus mentioned above filters water into a clean bag and stores it there, making it quickly accessible when you want it. Finally, both systems require a good set-up for effective operation—we prefer to hang our gravity filter from a tree branch, and have thus found it a difficult system to use in alpine environments. All told, if you’re in the market for a high-capacity gravity filter with quality components, the MSR AutoFlow is well worth a second look. See the MSR AutoFlow XL Gravity Filter

11. LifeSaver Wayfarer Purifier ($105)

UK-based LifeSaver isn’t a household name in outdoor gear, but their Wayfarer is well deserving of a spot on our list. Like the MSR Guardian above, the Wayfarer is a pump filter that also purifies, ridding your water of debris while also removing protozoa, bacteria, and viruses. In other words, the Wayfarer does it all—and does it all for an impressively low $105. And with a weight of just 11.4 ounces, it’s a lot lighter than the Guardian, too. If the MSR appeals to you but you don’t need such a premium design, LifeSaver’s backcountry offering is well worth a look.

So what do you sacrifice with the Wayfarer’s significantly lower price point? First off, its filter life is half that of the Guardian, and REI unfortunately doesn’t offer replacements (you can purchase them through LifeSaver’s website, but shipping from the UK is an extra $28 at the time of publishing). Second, the Wayfarer is not self-cleaning, which is one of the main features that keeps the Guardian’s flow rate so high throughout its life (the LifeSaver also starts out with a slower flow rate at 1.4L/min). But compared to standard pump filters like the Katadyn Hiker above and MSR MiniWorks EX below, it offers considerably more protection at a similar price point. As our wilderness areas become increasingly crowded a pump filter/purifier starts to make a lot more sense, and the LifeSaver Wayfarer is a very approachable solution. See the LifeSaver Wayfarer Purifier

12.  Platypus QuickDraw Microfilter System ($50)

Platypus’ GravityWorks above is one of our favorite water filters for groups, while their QuickDraw here offers a nice solution for individuals. The QuickDraw is similar to designs like the Sawyer Squeeze and LifeStraw Peak Squeeze above, threading onto a bottle or soft flask with a standard-sized opening (28mm) to filter clean water into your mouth or a separate vessel. The stated flow rate is impressive at 3 liters per minute (compared to the Squeeze’s 1.7 L/min.), and the QuickDraw rolls up into a tight package for storage in your pack or running vest. Importantly, the included Platypus bag is also much more durable than those from Sawyer and even features a convenient handle for easy water retrieval.

We’ve tested both the QuickDraw and Peak Squeeze filters extensively and rank the Platypus below the LifeStraw for a few key reasons. First off, it lacks versatility: While the Peak Squeeze can serve as a nice handheld for trail runners, the QuickDraw’s oblong shape and protruding filter is more difficult to hold. Second, our Platypus reservoir has formed a hole, while the tough LifeStraw soft flask has yet to leak. And finally, the QuickDraw has half the filter life (1,000L vs 2,000L), and ours has begun to clog quickly between cleanings, making for some painfully slow squeezing. But there’s still a lot to like about the Platypus, and it’s about to get better: An updated version is slated to release this spring, which includes an additional cap that seamlessly connects to narrow-mouth bottles and standard-sized hoses. See the Platypus QuickDraw Microfilter System

13.  Grayl 24oz GeoPress Purifier ($100)

The Grayl GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier is a sleek all-in-one solution made with travel and light adventuring in mind. Instead of sticking to the original water-treatment formula—which seems to always require some level of squeezing, pumping, batteries, hoses, or even chemicals—Grayl’s design gets the job done with a simple and eye-catching 24-ounce bottle and plunger. The GeoPress is available in a variety of colors, offers purification on top of filtration, and features a nice drinking spout and cap. What’s more, Grayl also makes the streamlined 16.9-ounce UltraPress ($90) and the UltraPress Ti ($200), which features a durable titanium bottle that can also be used to heat water over a flame.

Though certainly useful for a wide range of scenarios (think traveling in lesser-developed countries or hydrating in camp), the Grayl has limitations. Purifying just 24 ounces (0.7L) at a time, it’s an inefficient system for anything but on-the-go drinking when water sources are consistently available. Additionally, the purifier cartridge has a lifespan of only 65 gallons (or 246L), which pales in comparison to most offerings here (REI offers  replacement cartridges for $30). But no other bottle filter beats the Grayl purifier for traveling abroad, and it’s a great alternative to buying water in disposable plastic bottles. For backpacking, the practicality is limited. See the Grayl 24oz GeoPress Purifier

14.  SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier ($130)

For well over a decade, SteriPen has held a unique place in the water purification market. Instead of the various gravity filters, pumps, and chemical drops on this list, SteriPen’s technology uses UV rays to destroy bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. You simply place the SteriPen in your water bottle or reservoir and swirl until the device indicates you’re finished—it takes about 90 seconds to purify 1 liter. And the Ultra here is our favorite model, with a durable 4.9-ounce build, helpful LED display, and convenient USB-rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery. 

We love the concept of the SteriPen but have mixed feelings after extended use. The lack of filtration certainly is a downside and means that unless you don’t mind drinking silt or other particles, you’re limited to moving water sources of a decent depth. Second, the SteriPen uses a USB-rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and if that runs out and you don’t have a portable charger, you’re stuck in the wilderness with no purification. Finally, when using the SteriPen, it’s hard to feel totally confident that it worked—rational or not. Did I submerge the device too little or too much? Is the process really complete? But we’ve never been sick after using a SteriPen, so those concerns haven’t yet been realized. The Ultra UV is out of stock at the time of publishing, but SteriPen also offers their  Adventurer Opti UV , which features a rugged design that's powered by two CR123 batteries. See the SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier

15. MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter ($120)

For those wanting a dedicated water bottle filter, the LifeStraw Go has a lot of appeal. Like the soft-sided bottle filters above, the Go makes water treatment as simple as taking a sip, but the hard-sided bottle boosts durability and convenience for casual day hikes and frontcountry applications—no squeezing or cold hands required. Additionally, with a filter life of 4,000 liters, the LifeStraw boasts four times the longevity of the BeFree. All in all, it’s an ideal and long-lasting setup for adventures when weight and bulk aren’t top considerations.

But for all of its convenience, the LifeStraw Go isn’t that versatile—you get a bottle of filtered water, and that’s about it. Because it’s a straw filter, you can’t use the Go to squeeze water into an empty bottle or a pot for cooking (like you might with the BeFree or Sawyer Squeeze). Also, take note that the straw is bulky, which reduces the amount of overall water storage. But for short adventures or those who like to filter their tap water, the LifeStraw Go is one of the most convenient and user-friendly options available. See the LifeStraw Go 22 Oz.

17.  Sawyer Mini Filter ($25)

One ounce lighter and $16 cheaper than the Sawyer Squeeze above, the Sawyer Mini is one of the lightest and most compact water filters on the market. Like the Squeeze, the Mini attaches to its included bag or other compatible water bottle to squeeze filtered water into your mouth or drinking vessel. You’ll have to purchase inline adapters separately for use with a gravity system or hydration reservoir, but the Mini is nevertheless a decent option for those who don’t mind a simple bottle filter. And while its 100,000-gallon filter life pales in comparison to the standard Squeeze’s lifetime guarantee, it’s still incredibly impressive compared to most options here.

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the smaller and less expensive Mini is slower to filter and more prone to clogging. We brought the Mini along on a 4-day trek in Patagonia (with clear water sources), and it required so much suction when paired with a smartwater bottle that we resorted to our group’s gravity filter instead. Additionally, the small 16-ounce pouch isn’t ideal for filling up standard water bottles, and we’ve had bad luck with delamination and leaks on all of our Sawyer bags. In the end, we don’t recommend the Mini for anything other than emergency use, especially given that the Squeeze is a fully functional alternative for just 1 ounce and 20 bucks more. And if you want to keep weight down, it’s also worth checking out the Hydroblu Versa Flow filter , which is still lightweight at 2.6 ounces but has a faster flow rate than the Mini. See the Sawyer Mini Filter

18.  Potable Aqua Tablets ($10 for 50)

Second, by definition, a filter routes water through an actual sieve, which physically removes debris such as dirt, algae, leaves, and tiny critters. By contrast, most purifiers use chemicals or ultraviolet light to treat water straight from the source (i.e. unfiltered water). This is important to keep in mind if you’re drawing from unclear water sources such as a silty river, murky pond, or muddy desert pool. We’ll usually opt for a filter in these scenarios, but if you’re using a purifier it’s a good idea to pre-filter your water (more on this below). Finally, some premium treatment options both filter and purify water, such as the MSR Guardian  or the budget-oriented LifeSaver Wayfarer .

Gravity/Inline Filters Gravity systems—which use an inline filter—are best for groups, basecamping, or anytime you want to filter large quantities of water with minimal hands-on effort. Simply fill the dirty water bag, hook up the filter to the port or hose, and let gravity do the work. Some gravity systems have a separate “clean” reservoir to collect the water, while others dispense it straight into your vessel (or mouth) via a hose with an on/off valve. But gravity filters aren’t for everyone: they’re bulkier and heavier than most alternatives, and you’ll need a fairly good water supply to fill up your reservoir (pumps are better for shallow sources). Finally, gravity filters aren’t our first choice for on-the-go water treatment, as setting up the system can take some time, and you’ll need somewhere to hang it (something to keep in mind if you're headed above treeline). 

Although they’re most commonly used in gravity setups, inline filters also can be paired with a hydration reservoir (purchased separately) to provide on-the-go filtration for solo travelers. Instead of gravity doing the work, suction brings the water from the “dirty” bag, through the filter, and into the hydration hose to the mouth. Used in this way, an inline filter will only add about 3 ounces to your kit (assuming you’re already bringing a reservoir) and is an efficient way for individuals to stay hydrated, although your setup has to be perfect—we've found that if any component gets pinched or falls into the wrong orientation, the flow of water will stop. For this application, some of our favorite filters are the MSR Thru-Link  and  HydraPak 28mm Filter Kit , and models like the Sawyer Squeeze quickly convert into an inline filter with included adapters.

Pump Filters/Purifiers Pump filters are a great option for small groups (1 to 4 people), and especially when you need to pull water from shallow pools. Using simple mechanics (and some elbow grease), a pump siphons water from the source, through a hose and filter, and out another hose into a clean receptacle. But while they have long been a popular option for backcountry filtration, pump filters recently have been outpaced by other styles. They’re among the heaviest systems, take more time and effort than most methods, and cleaning the cartridges isn’t as easy as a simple backflush (as with most inline and straw filters). That said, for those who enjoy the process of camp chores and don’t mind a little gear maintenance, we certainly understand the appeal.

Squeeze Filters Squeeze filters attach to the spout of a soft-sided bottle or pouch and filter water as you drink. Their lightweight and easy-to-use design makes them a great option for weight-conscious trips and solo backpackers, day hikers, trail runners, cyclists, and more. We love these filters for their versatility—in addition to drinking from the bottle or pouch, you can also squeeze water into a separate receptacle for storage. Some designs, including the Katadyn BeFree and HydraPak 42mm Filter Cap , are compatible with the wide-mouth soft flasks included in most  running vests . And finally, many squeeze filters (like the Sawyer Squeeze or LifeStraw Peak Squeeze) also can perform as inline or gravity filters, or be used as straws to suction water directly from the source. Keep in mind that squeeze filters are often slower at filtering than a high-performing pump design and require quite a bit more effort than a gravity model. And with particularly cold water, your hands can get pretty chilly, too. 

Straw Filters Used by day hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers who prefer not to carry water as they move, a straw filter allows you to drink directly from the source, as though sipping through a straw (some setups also include a bottle, like the LifeStraw Go ). Straw filters have their place for simple applications and day trips, but are not a very versatile setup as they offer no way to produce or store clean water for cooking or drinking later. Further, some squeeze and inline filters also can be used as a straw (such as the Sawyer Squeeze Mini), and are by far the more well-rounded choice. In general, we don’t recommend simple straw filters for high-performance backcountry use, but they can serve as an emergency backup or novel recreational option.

Chemical/UV Purifiers Available in both liquid and tablet forms, chemical purifiers use iodine or chlorine dioxide to remove protozoa, bacteria, and viruses from water. UV purifiers like the SteriPen use ultraviolet rays to achieve the same effect. The upsides to both methods are clear: they’re relatively lightweight, don’t require the arduous task of pumping or squeezing, and you get protection against viruses, too (filters only remove bacteria and protozoa). But keep in mind that both chemical and UV purifiers forgo filtering, making them good options only when you have access to clear water sources like glacial streams. In addition, chemical purifiers can add an undesirable taste to your water, and UV purifiers require batteries and electronics, which aren’t great to rely on in the backcountry. That said, these purifiers offer a nice alternative to bulkier filters, and we especially like chemical options like Aquamira and Potable Aqua for large groups, weight-conscious outings, or as a backup to a filter.

Water filters and purifiers range in weight and bulk, from super lightweight tablets that are just a fraction of an ounce, to the 1-pound 1-ounce MSR Guardian. Most of today’s most popular options for individuals settle in the 2 to 5-ounce range. As with all backpacking gear, you’ll want to go as light as possible without sacrificing too much in the way of functionality. In general, chemical purifiers are the most minimalist option (and great for groups), with squeeze filters like the 2-ounce Sawyer Squeeze Mini not too far behind (although they’re slightly larger in size). Pumps and gravity systems are the heaviest and bulkiest, and include multiple components like storage bags and hoses. Finally, keep in mind that when calculating the weight of your setup, that you’ll also want to factor in your water storage (bottle, reservoir, etc.).

Pore size refers to the size of the tiny openings in the filter, and is measured in terms of microns. The smaller the pore, the more particles the filter can block. According to the CDC guide on water treatment , a pore size of 1 micron (or less) is needed to filter out protozoa, while you’ll need a pore size as small as 0.3 micron to filter out bacteria. Viruses, on the other hand, can be as small as 0.02 micron. Most backpacking filters on this list have a pore size of 0.1 or 0.2 micron, which is why they sift out protozoa and bacteria, but not viruses. Because they are so small, the best way to combat viruses is through chemical or ultraviolet purification. Alternatively, the MSR Guardian pump purifier uses 0.02-mircon hollow fibers to filter viruses.

  Flow Rate

The flow rate indicates the speed at which a filter treats water, and is most often measured in terms of liters per minute. In general, gravity filters have the fastest flow rates: The Platypus GravityWorks filters 1.75 liters per minute, which means it only takes a few minutes to fill a 4-liter bladder with clean water. Leading pump filters are listed at about 1 liter per minute, although that seems fairly optimistic to us (the exception is the pricey MSR Guardian, which is speedy at 2.5 L/min.). Finally, squeeze and straw filters can only move as fast as you can drink or squeeze, although newer models like the Platypus QuickDraw and LifeStraw Peak Squeeze advertise rates of up to 3 liters per minute. Keep in mind that the flow rates listed by the manufacturers are going to be realized in optimal circumstances (i.e. clear water), and you'll need to stay on top of filter maintenance to keep things moving properly (more on this below).

Because chemical and ultraviolet purifiers do not filter water, they don’t have a flow rate. However, they do have a wait time that must lapse before water is safe to drink, usually between 15 and 30 minutes (and sometimes a full 4 hours for Cryptosporidium) for chemical purifiers, and 90 seconds per liter for a SteriPen. The good news about chemical purifiers is that you can sit back and let them do their work, rather than pumping or squeezing as in the case of some filters. All told, flow rate will be an important consideration for groups and time-conscious endeavors, but less of an issue for more casual hikers and backpackers.

A key product specification that we reference in this article is filter life, or how quickly your filter will need to be replaced. The primary consideration here is cost: You have the initial purchase price of the item, but after a certain number of liters of water have been filtered, you’ll need to buy a replacement cartridge. For example, two of our favorite pump filters are the Katadyn Hiker and MSR MiniWorks. The purchase price of the Katadyn is $40 less than the MSR, but it has a shorter filter life of 750 liters vs. 2,000 liters, which is a big difference. Given that the Katadyn replacement filter costs $55 vs. $45 for the MSR, this brings the cost of the system up over a period of years. On the extreme ends of the spectrum, the Grayl GeoPress  has a cartridge life of only 65 gallons, while the Sawyer Squeeze has a lifetime warranty—they don’t even make replacement cartridges for it.

Cleaning pump filters is a slightly more intensive process, as you'll need to unscrew the apparatus and either remove the filter or extend a brush down the interior. Instructional videos are available online for almost every product on our list, and you should expect basic maintenance to be part of owning and using a water filter. If you’re not keen on keeping up your equipment, you can always opt for more carefree models like the SteriPen or chemical treatments like Aquamira or Potable Aqua.  

  Pre-Filtering

As we touched on above, if you’re not using a dedicated filter to separate out sediment and other particulates, finding a clean and moving water source is the best way to ensure your water tastes good. But should you find yourself with no other option, we’ve found a bandana (or other piece of clothing) to be the most effective pre-filtering method for straining out leaves, sand, and other bits before purification. Another option is to scoop the dirty water into a Ziploc bag, let the sediment settle, and transfer the clear water from the top into a bottle for treatment. With especially dirty water sources, pre-filtering can be a great idea even if you’re using a filter to treat your water, as it will mitigate potential clogging.

Compatibility with Bottles and Reservoirs

Almost all water treatment systems have some way of connecting to either a water bottle or hydration reservoir, if not both. This often takes the form of a simple hose or cap that fits onto commonly sized openings. The HydraPak 28mm Filter Kit , for example, has a quick-release adapter that attaches directly to your water reservoir, and pump filters like the Katadyn Hiker and the MSR MiniWorks fit the mouth of a standard Nalgene bottle. Sawyer has played into the fast-and-light community of hikers who use disposable plastic water bottles on the trail, making their Squeeze and Mini versions able to screw into the mouth of a standard plastic water bottle (great for weight savings, less great for the environment). On the other hand, the Katadyn BeFree and HydraPak 42mm Filter Cap are only compatible with specific HydraPak soft flasks. All in all, be mindful of the compatibility for a water filter or purifier to make sure it works with your drinking vessels.

Many water filters and purifiers are able to remove bacteria, protozoa, and sometimes even viruses, but they won’t necessarily change the taste of the water. This isn’t a huge issue when you’re drinking straight from cold mountain streams, but it definitely can be as the quality of your water source deteriorates. If you’re using chemicals to purify your water or drinking from questionable sources—perhaps water with floating leaves or plants growing underneath the surface—taste can come into play in a big way. Remember, this doesn’t mean your water isn’t safe to drink—you’ve filtered or purified it—but you can always add an electrolyte-enhanced drink mix like Nuun Sport hydration tablets to make it more palatable (or in the case of Potable Aqua, use the accompanying neutralizing tablets).

Another way to combat foul-tasting water is to use a carbon filter. Used in the popular Brita kitchen filters, carbon removes chlorine, organic compounds, and other bad odor and taste-inducing materials. Not all portable backcountry filters use carbon, but many on our list do including the MSR MiniWorks and Grayl GeoPress. Additionally, some models offer carbon filters as add-ons: The Platypus GravityWorks, for example, sells a carbon element separately that can be added to the existing filter. It’s important to note that carbon becomes ineffective before the filter (after approximately 6 months or 200L), so if this is a feature you want to maintain, choose a filter that allows you to purchase the carbon element separately from the complete cartridge.

Emergency Backups

Last but not least, we should mention that just about every water filter and purifier can malfunction, which may leave you without clean water in the backcountry. In this scenario, you can boil your drinking water provided you have a backpacking stove and extra fuel, but this a time and labor-intensive method. For this reason, we think it’s a good idea to carry a lightweight chemical treatment or basic LifeStraw as an emergency backup. The LifeStraw weighs only 2 ounces and costs $20, and Aquamira drops are just $15 for enough solution to treat 30 gallons of water (and a mere 3 extra ounce in your backpack). Getting sick in the backcountry can be a serious medical concern, so we think having a backup is a smart way to go. Back to Our Top Water Filter Picks   Back to Our Water Filter Comparison Table

Learn More About Outdoor Gear

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Budget Travel Buff

10 Best Water Filter for Travel & Hiking in 2023

Are you looking for the best water filter for travel ? When it is about drinking water you should be more careful as unpurified water may be very harmful and even it may destroy your whole trip. Using a portable water purifier bottle will dramatically improve your traveling and hiking experience.

In the following article, we take a look at some of the best travel water filters with their key features, pros, and cons.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay any extra penny, but I’ll get a small commission that encourages me to deliver more helpful content for you.

Why Should You Use Reusable Filtered Water Bottles?

If you are a travel buff, a portable water bottle with a filter should be your best and most important companion. Many travelers prefer to buy packaged drinking water bottles when traveling abroad or in an area where the water is not safe.

As a responsible budget traveler, I never promote buying packaged drinking water. I know it is safe and good practice to be safe while traveling in an unknown country. But why not using a water filter for travel?

A portable travel water filter not only eliminates the chance of getting sick while traveling but also helps to reduce and eliminate single-use plastics that are polluting our environment.

And most importantly, a travel water filter saves a lot of money. I’m a budget traveler and I know the value of every single penny. If you spend $2 a day on bottled water, it can cost you more than $700 on a year-long trip.

All of these filtered water bottles and travel water purifiers are under $100. You may also like to read another article on how do I save money on food while traveling .

Is A Portable Water Filter Worth It For Travel?

Travel water filters are not too expensive. As mentioned earlier, you can easily find some of the best water filters for travel under $100 on Amazon . This is also considered one of the most important camping essentials .

A portable travel water bottle with a filter can save money, the environment, and your body . With a travel water purifier bottle, you can carry less water and fill up as you go. This is a great help for your shoulders while going for a long hike or long day travel across the globe.

So yes, a small investment on a travel water filter or a water purifier bottle is completely worth it.

Buying Guide for a Travel Water Filter Bottle

Assuming that you are convinced to buy a portable water filter for travel. With a rise in international travel, you will get to see the abundance of water filters and water purifiers in the market. Don’t be puzzled while choosing the best portable water purifier for travel. Here are some important things to consider when buying a water filter or purifier .

Filtration Technology:

Carbon filters  are the best for removing heavy metals and bacterial contaminants. The Straw filter  is also a common type of filter where you suck on the mouthpiece and the water is filtered through the straw on its way up.

While a straw filter gives you instant access to filtered water, a Gravity filter usually works slowly but allows you to filter a large amount of water. A Pump filter  is a simple and easy process. Once you pump the water through the filter you can drink it for up to 48 hours. 

The pore size of the water filter indicates the smallest particle that can pass through the filter. Experts recommend buying a water filter for travel that has at least a 0.1-micron filter  to remove microorganisms, microplastics, and silt.

Bottle Construction:

Metal bottles are increasing in popularity for their durability and effectiveness, but they are a little bit heavy and pricy. If you buy a plastic water purifier bottle for travel, don’t forget to check if it is BPA-free , else it may cause some serious decease.

Water Filter or Purifier:

Water filters are very effective to remove protozoan cysts and bacteria, not viruses. Viruses are too small that can be eliminated by a water purifier. If you are traveling to a developing country, you can consider buying a water purifier.

Best Water Filter for  Travel

#1 grayl geopress purifier water bottle.

Grayl is one of the best and renowned brands for filtered water bottles. Whether you’re out for hiking, biking, camping, traveling, or fishing, the Grayl GeoPress water bottle will impress you with its purifying ability and patented OnePress technology .

GeoPress is lightweight and removes 99.9% of all viruses, bacteria, and protozoa . No more waiting for gravity-fed filters GeoPress filters any chemicals, metals, pesticides, and odors out of the water in 8 sec. In addition, there is no setup time.

It has a compact design and can be fit in your backpack easily. Their SimpleVent Drink Cap  vents air while purifying and protects the water against dirt or potential cross-contamination.

Highlighting Features :

• Removes 99.9% pathogen
• Patented OnePress technology
• LED flashlight
• Provides a neoprene case and belt loop
• 24-ounce capacity perfect for longer backpacking or camping trips
• Filters water in 8 seconds!
• Non-slip bottom
• Great taste and clarity after filtering
• SimpleVent Drink Cap makes drinking easy
• Doesn’t fit well into drink holders
• Not as lightweight as the GRAYL Ultralight

#2 LifeStraw Go Water Bottle

LifeStraw is another popular brand for its filter and purifier products. If you are looking for a water filter for backpacking, go for Lifestraw Go Water Bottle . It is easy for everyday use, affordable , and an excellent choice for hiking, biking, and travel within the US.

Their two-stage activated carbon filter technology removes 99.9999% of bacteria, protozoan cysts, microplastics, unpleasant chlorine, and other odors from the water. You just need to fill the bottle up, re-insert the straw filter and suck through it.

The manufacturers recommend replacing the water filter every three months. Although it can efficiently remove bacteria and protozoan cysts , this water filter travel bottle doesn’t remove viruses and heavy metals. So, I wouldn’t recommend this product to use in developing countries where the tap water isn’t safe to drink.

• 22-ounce capacity
• Two-stage carbon filtering
• Removes chlorine, organic chemicals, microplastics, and odor
• Leak-proof design
• Longer lifetime
• Easy to use
• Two-stage filtering technology proves its efficiency
• Removes 99.99% of bacteria, chemicals, and microplastics
• Lightweight
• Doesn’t REMOVE viruses
• Doesn’t REMOVE heavy metals(Lead)
• Cannot REMOVE bad tastes totally, just reduces
• not good for travel in developing countries

#3 Epic Nalgene OG Ultimate Travel Bottle

Nalgene has been making water filter bottles and water purifiers for years. Most of their products are pretty affordable but they never compromised with their product quality. And when it comes to portable water filters for travel, hiking, or camping, Epic Nalgene OG Ultimate Travel Bottle is the go-to choice for many travelers.

The filters remove pretty much everything you can expect to find in drinking water. From PFOA, fluorides, chlorine to bacteria, viruses, cysts, its filters can remove pretty much everything from the water.

Its activated carbon filter can effectively remove heavy metals and odor . Even if you are planning a long hike, camping, or visiting a country with unsafe water sources, this 32-oz filtered travel bottle can remove more impurities than an average water filtering bottle.

• Removes 99.99% of tap water impurities
• Uses BPA-free plastic
• Activated carbon filters
• Reusable everyday use product
• Passed NSF testing
• Activated carbon filter removes 99.9% of viruses, bacteria, and cysts
• Removes 99.9% of chlorine, lead, heavy metals, and odors
• Suitable for more than one person(32 oz)
• Silicone sipping straw
• Durable and reusable.
• Excellent for daily use and travel
• It is not for you if looking for a small filtered travel water bottle.
• Doesn’t fit most cup holders in cars.

Read Next: 10 Best Rolling Coolers for Beach Vacations

#4 GRAYL Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle

GRAYL is maintaining its brand value for the last few years by serving top-notch quality and keeping harmful pathogens out of your water. Grail Ultralight and Grail Geo press both are my favorite.

Generally, I use Ultralight for daily use, on a plane, short day hike whereas Geopress is perfect for camping and long hikes where I need more water. It came with great help while I was exploring the hiking trails in Southern California .

You can easily fit this small, super-light water purifier bottle into a backpack pocket, or in a bag which makes it very convenient to travel with.

The GRAYL Ultralight uses an activated charcoal filter that eliminates 99.9% of viruses, bacteria, and protozoan from the water. It also filters out chemicals and bad smells from the water to make it more refreshing and healthy.

GRAYL Ultralight takes only 15 seconds to filter the entire bottle of 16 oz . This high-rated travel water purifier bottle is very simple to use. Fill up the bottle and just press the button on the lid and the bacteria and chemical-free water are ready to drink.

• 16-ounce capacity
• Three purifying technologies
• Filtering in 15 seconds
• 99.99% pathogen removal
• Removes 99.9% of viruses, bacteria, protozoa, chemicals, and odors.
• Ultra-lightweight making it ideal for travel and hiking
• Filter the entire 16 oz of water in 15 seconds
• Great taste
• No sipping lid like the larger GeoPress model below
• Not recommended for camping and long hiking when you need more water.

Read Also : 12 Best Barefoot Hiking Shoes And Boots

#5 Katadyn Vario Water Filter

If you want to take your water filtration to the next level of safety, you must take a close look at Katadyn Vario Water Filter . It is one of the best water filters for travel. Katadyn Vario is stylish, effectively designed and it uses dual technology(Katadyn carbon core and cleanable ceramic disc) microfilter to remove the bacteria, microplastics, and protozoa.

At only 1.6 pounds in weight, you’ll barely feel this small device in your backpack. Its efficient filtering system can produce up to 2 quarts of water per minute in the faster flow mode.

The charcoal filters are capable to remove most of the bacterias, unpleasant tastes, and odors, making the water drinkable and good tasting. You can attach the pump to a wide range of bottles, and water-holding bags.

• Includes Prefilter, Deluxe Carry Bag, and Cleaning Pad
• Cartridge Capacity: Up to 500 gallons
• Filters up to 2 liters per minute
• Dual technology: Replaceable Katadyn carbon core and cleanable ceramic disc
• Weight: 15 oz, Height: 6.5”
• Simple, easy to use, and light.
• Removes 99.99% bacteria and protozoan cysts
• Perfect for small group camping
• The pump can stop by air locking the piston and valve.
• Cannot remove viruses.
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#6 Seychelle Rad/Advanced Water Filter Bottle

The Seychelle Rad/Advanced Water Filter Bottle is one of my favorite water purifier bottles that I can use for daily use, traveling, hiking, and camping.

Seychelle has been producing various types of bottles for years, but if you are looking safest water bottle for travel that can protect you from swallowing bacteria, pathogens, chemicals, and pesticides, go with the Seychelle Rad/Advanced Filtered Water Bottle .

Its Ionic Adsorption Micro Filtration technology  absorbs or removes 4 types of contaminants including viruses, bacteria, and other waterborne pathogens from the water.

Most other bottles in this list are only efficient against common impurities. But the Seychelle Rad/Advanced water filter bottle removes even radioactive contaminants  such as radium 226 and cesium 137.

• Ionic Adsorption Micro Filtration technology
• 28-ounce capacity and BPA-free plastic body
• Removes chemical contaminants
• Suitable for camping and emergency kits
• Works very fast and ready to drink
• Provides a sipping straw
• Removes 99.9% of bacteria, chemicals, odors, and radioactive contaminants.
• It has a non-slip grip, easy to grab.
• Larger in size, not recommended to travel with on a plane.
• Some users have reported leaking near the lid area

#7 Sawyer Products SP131 Squeeze Water Filter

Whether you are in an emergency or passionate about traveling, hiking, and camping, Sawyer Products SP131 is one of the best water filters for travel. This model is highly effective when you are traveling in an unknown country or hiking a remote trail where water is not safe to drink.

Weighing just 3 ounces, it removes more than 99.9% of the bacteria and protozoan cyst and provides filtered water very fast. You have to find a river, lake, or any water source, fill the 32-ounce pouches with dirty water, and squeeze them into a clean bottle.

Sawyer Products SP131 has an ingenious adapter to transfer the filtered water from the 32-ounce pouch to your drinking bottle, or any reservoir. It rids the water of 100% microplastics , making it safe and tasty for drinking.

• Ultralight high performance 0.1 Micron inline filter
• BPA-free collapsible pouch
• Comes with an ingenious adapter to transfer filtered water
• Uses Squeeze Filter technology
• Removes 99.99% of all bacteria, and microplastics.
• Long-Lasting travel filter water bottle. Can filter up to 1 million gallons without replacing the filter cartridge.
• Perfect for travel, outdoor adventures, or emergency preparedness
• Super lightweight with a fast flow rate.
• 32-ounce reusable squeeze pouch can be rolled up when empty and takes less space
• Collecting water with the pouches in the shallow can be challenging.
• Need more effort than gravity filters.
• Pouches built quality could be better.

Read Also : 11 Best Travel Binoculars under $200: Review & Buyer’s Guide 

#8  LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

LifeStraw’s flagship product on the water filter and purifier is praised globally. The best thing about LifeStraw is that they produce top-quality models at a very reasonable price. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is a great pick for budget travelers and backpackers who are looking for affordable water filters for travel .

The hollow fiber membrane technology can transform contaminated water into clean and safe drinking water within a second. Even if you don’t travel frequently you can keep this small portable water filter in your house for any uncertain natural disaster or emergency event.

LifeStraw water filter is small in size but it can filter around 1000 liters of water, and remove 99.99% of bacteria and protozoan cysts. It is made from BPA-free materials and doesn’t use any chemicals to filter out harmful particles.

• Only 2 oz, need no batteries or pumping
• Removes 99.999999% of waterborne bacteria and parasites
• Passed all the testing standards by the US EPA, NSF, ASTM for water purifiers
• The longer lifetime with 1000 gallons filter
• One of the cheapest portable water filters for travel
• Ultralight and takes less space
• Easy to use and easy to carry

Cons : At high altitudes, suction can be a little tough.

#9 OKO H2O Advanced Filtration Water Bottle Level 2

It is an all-rounder in this list of the best water filter for travel. OKO H2O Advanced Filtration Water Bottle is a great choice for everyday use to traveling and outdoor adventures. This filtered water bottle is lightweight, inexpensive, and can filter up to 100 gallons of water.

The water filter bottle is made from BPA-free hard plastic and it has a good grip with a soft mouthpiece. The OKO bottle can remove 99.99% bacteria, protozoa, parasites, chemicals, and heavy metals  from the water. It is also effective to remove viruses with a pore size of 2 microns.  

• Removes 99.99% bacteria and pathogen removal
• Removes 100% microplastics
• 100 gallons filter lifetime
• BPA-free hard plastic
• Extremely lightweight (5.2 oz bottle weight)
• Level 2 filter is very effective while traveling in developing countries
• Sleek design with a soft mouthpiece
• Has a large bottle size of 1 liter
• Easy to grip
• Might be too big to put in your backpack
• It is a little tough to suck the water due to the extra filtering

#10 SteriPen Adventurer Opti UV Water Purifier

If you are looking for the best water filters for hikers, I will highly recommend SteriPen Adventurer Opti UV Water Purifier . A small and simple device that you can carry anywhere.

It can destroy over 99.9 percent of harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and protozoan cysts. It is just a one-button operation , you just need to place the SteriPen into your glass, or bottle, and then click the button. Once the purification process is completed, the green light will blink and the water is ready to drink.

The pen can be reused for around 8000 liters. Remember that the SteriPen device is operated by batteries. So, carry extra CR123 batteries while going for long hiking or camping.

• UV water purifier
• Kills more than 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa
• Filters up to 80000 liters
• LED flashlight for water sensor
• Virus killing efficiency is ideal for traveling in developing countries where the tap waters are not safe.
• Offers the best taste
• Compact design and longer lifetime of the filters
• Little expensive but under $100
• Some users reported that it consumes more power. Keep extra CR123A batteries handy.
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I got some nice ideas to choose the best water filter from the market. Thank you.

I’m glad that it helps you.

I love the LifeStraw personal water filter, it’s a plus to carry around instead of a water bottle or a hydration pack. Make sure you clean it according to the instructions after each use.

LifeStraw is always my first choice and thank you for your kind information.

I would recommend it to anyone, very easy to use and very good filter quality. I was quite surprised because its water tasted better than bottled water.

Thanks for sharing your tips! I haven’t bought a water filter before so I find this post extremely useful.

This water filter is very suitable for travel and the best thing is the quality of water is very great. you wont feel any tannins and texture is great. Everyone fond of travelling must use this water filter

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Tips

The Best Travel Water Filter Bottles For Your Next Trip

Published: September 22, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Dorolice Brinkman

• Tech & Gear
• Travel Essentials & Accessories
• Portable Water Filter

Introduction

Welcome to the world of travel, where exploration, adventure, and new experiences await at every turn. As a savvy traveler, you know that staying hydrated is crucial to enjoying your journey to the fullest. But what happens when you’re faced with questionable water sources or limited access to clean drinking water?

This is where a travel water filter bottle comes to the rescue. It is a compact, portable solution that allows you to purify water on the go, ensuring you have safe and clean drinking water no matter where you are in the world.

Whether you’re hiking through the mountains, backpacking across foreign lands, or simply exploring a new city, having a reliable travel water filter bottle is a game changer. Not only does it save you from purchasing single-use plastic water bottles, but it also guarantees that you can drink from any available water source, be it a tap, river, or even a questionable hotel faucet.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the importance of a travel water filter bottle, discuss the factors to consider when choosing one, and provide you with our top picks for the best travel water filter bottles on the market. So, sit back, grab a glass of filtered water, and let’s dive in!

Importance of a Travel Water Filter Bottle

When you’re traveling, especially in unfamiliar territories, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and safety. One of the most important aspects of staying healthy while traveling is ensuring that you have access to clean and safe drinking water. This is where a travel water filter bottle becomes essential.

Here are a few reasons why a travel water filter bottle is important:

• Protection against Contaminants: Water sources in different countries can vary in quality, and some may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites that can lead to illness. With a travel water filter bottle, you can filter out these contaminants and have peace of mind knowing that you’re consuming safe water.
• Convenience: Carrying around multiple plastic water bottles can be inconvenient and environmentally unfriendly. A travel water filter bottle eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles, allowing you to filter water from various sources and reducing plastic waste.
• Cost-Effective: Purchasing bottled water every time can quickly add up and become expensive, especially in touristy areas. With a travel water filter bottle, you can save money by filtering tap water or even water from natural sources, such as rivers or streams, without compromising your health.
• Sustainability: By using a travel water filter bottle, you’re actively contributing to a more sustainable future. You’ll be reducing plastic waste and minimizing your carbon footprint, making a positive impact on the environment.
• Versatility: Whether you’re camping in the wilderness, navigating bustling cities, or trekking through remote areas, having a travel water filter bottle ensures that you have access to clean drinking water wherever your adventures take you.

Now that you understand the importance of a travel water filter bottle, let’s delve into the factors you should consider when choosing one.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Water Filter Bottle

With the wide variety of travel water filter bottles available on the market, it’s important to consider certain factors before making a purchase. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Filtration Mechanism: Different travel water filter bottles use different filtration mechanisms, such as activated carbon filters, ceramic filters, or UV filters. Consider your specific needs and the types of contaminants you may encounter during your travels. Look for a filter that can effectively remove bacteria, viruses, parasites, heavy metals, and other impurities.
• Flow Rate: The flow rate refers to how quickly the water passes through the filter. A higher flow rate can be advantageous when you’re on the go and need to quickly replenish your water supply. However, keep in mind that a higher flow rate might compromise the level of filtration.
• Capacity: Consider how much water you typically consume in a day and choose a travel water filter bottle with an appropriate capacity. Smaller capacity bottles are lighter and more compact, ideal for backpacking or day trips, while larger capacity bottles are suitable for longer outdoor adventures.
• Durability: Travel water filter bottles should be sturdy and durable to withstand the rigors of travel. Look for materials such as BPA-free plastic or stainless steel that are resistant to impact and can withstand frequent use.
• Portability: Since the purpose of a travel water filter bottle is to have access to clean water on the go, it’s essential to choose a bottle that is lightweight, compact, and easy to carry. Consider the size, weight, and design features such as a built-in handle or carabiner clip for easy attachment to your backpack.
• Maintenance and Longevity: Check the maintenance requirements of the travel water filter bottle. Some filters may require regular cleaning or replacement cartridges. Additionally, consider the lifespan of the filter and the availability of replacement parts.
• Price: Establish a budget and compare the prices of different travel water filter bottles. While quality and effectiveness are important, it’s also important to find a product that fits within your budget. Consider the long-term cost of replacement filters when evaluating the overall value.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and choose a travel water filter bottle that best meets your needs. Now, let’s explore our top picks for the best travel water filter bottles on the market.

Top Picks for Travel Water Filter Bottles

After carefully considering the aforementioned factors, we have put together a list of our top picks for the best travel water filter bottles. These bottles have been selected based on their filtration capabilities, durability, portability, and overall user reviews. Let’s take a closer look at each one:

1. Brand A Water Filter Bottle

Description: With its advanced filtration system, the Brand A Water Filter Bottle removes up to 99.9% of bacteria and protozoa, ensuring clean and safe drinking water. It has a sleek and durable design, with a capacity of 750ml and a convenient flip-top lid. The filter lasts up to 1,500 liters, making it suitable for long-term travel.

2. Brand B Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand B Water Filter Bottle is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for backpacking adventures. It utilizes a combination of activated carbon and fiber membrane filters to effectively remove contaminants. The bottle has a capacity of 500ml and features a leak-proof design, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Brand C Water Filter Bottle

Description: Designed for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers, the Brand C Water Filter Bottle offers a high flow rate without compromising filtration. Its unique filter technology removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, ensuring clean and refreshing water. The bottle has a capacity of 650ml and comes with a durable carrying strap for easy transport.

4. Brand D Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand D Water Filter Bottle combines innovative filtration technology with a sleek and portable design. Its multi-stage filter removes a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals and chlorine. With a capacity of 800ml and an ergonomic grip, it’s perfect for active travelers who want both functionality and style.

5. Brand E Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand E Water Filter Bottle features a durable and lightweight construction, making it an excellent choice for travel. Its advanced filtration system removes bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, providing clean and safe drinking water. The bottle has a 1-liter capacity and comes with a convenient carry handle for easy transportation.

These are just a few of the top travel water filter bottles available on the market. Consider your specific needs and preferences, and choose the one that best suits your travel style. Now, let’s compare the top options and make an informed decision.

Brand A Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand A Water Filter Bottle is a reliable companion for travelers who prioritize clean and safe drinking water. With its advanced filtration system, this bottle removes up to 99.9% of bacteria and protozoa, ensuring that you can hydrate with confidence no matter where your journey takes you.

The Brand A Water Filter Bottle has a sleek and durable design, featuring a 750ml capacity and a convenient flip-top lid for easy access. Its compact size fits comfortably in most backpack pockets, making it a practical choice for hikers, backpackers, and explorers. The BPA-free plastic construction ensures both durability and safety.

One of the standout features of the Brand A Water Filter Bottle is its long-lasting filter. With a lifespan of up to 1,500 liters, you can enjoy clean water for extended periods of time without worrying about frequent filter replacement. This makes it an excellent option for those embarking on long-term travel adventures.

Using the Brand A Water Filter Bottle is simple and straightforward. Just fill the bottle with water from any source – tap, river, or lake – and let the filter work its magic. The advanced filtration technology effectively removes bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants, providing you with clear, odor-free, and great-tasting water.

When it comes to maintenance, the Brand A Water Filter Bottle is hassle-free. The filter can be easily cleaned by rinsing it with water or scrubbing with a soft brush. Replacement filters are readily available and affordable, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy the benefits of this water filter bottle for many more adventures to come.

In summary, the Brand A Water Filter Bottle offers reliable filtration, durability, and convenience. Its advanced filtration system and long-lasting filter make it a top choice for travelers who want to prioritize their health and stay hydrated on the go. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or exploring new cities, this water filter bottle is a must-have travel companion.

Brand B Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand B Water Filter Bottle is a compact and lightweight option that provides reliable filtration for travelers. With its combination of activated carbon and fiber membrane filters, this bottle effectively removes contaminants, ensuring clean and safe drinking water wherever your adventures take you.

The Brand B Water Filter Bottle is designed with convenience in mind. With a capacity of 500ml, it is compact enough to fit easily in your backpack or travel bag, making it an ideal choice for those on the move. The leak-proof design ensures that you can carry it with confidence, without worrying about spills or leaks.

What sets the Brand B Water Filter Bottle apart is its filtration technology. The activated carbon filter removes impurities, such as chlorine, bad taste, and odor, leaving you with refreshing and great-tasting water. The fiber membrane filter effectively eliminates bacteria, protozoa, and other harmful contaminants, ensuring that you stay hydrated without compromising your health.

Using the Brand B Water Filter Bottle is a breeze. Simply fill the bottle with water from any source – tap, stream, or even a questionable hotel faucet – and let the dual filtration system do its work. The fast flow rate ensures that you can quench your thirst quickly, making it perfect for outdoor activities or when you’re on the go.

Maintenance is simple with the Brand B Water Filter Bottle. The filter can be easily replaced when needed, and replacement filters are widely available. The filter life may vary depending on usage and water quality, but on average, it can filter up to 400 liters of water before needing to be replaced.

In summary, the Brand B Water Filter Bottle offers compactness, convenience, and effective filtration. Whether you’re hiking, traveling abroad, or simply want to ensure access to clean drinking water, this bottle delivers. With its combination of activated carbon and fiber membrane filters, you can trust that your water will be free from impurities and safe to drink.

Brand C Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand C Water Filter Bottle is a versatile and reliable option for travelers who prioritize clean and safe drinking water. With its unique filter technology, this bottle removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, ensuring that you can stay hydrated and healthy throughout your journey.

The Brand C Water Filter Bottle is designed with outdoor enthusiasts in mind. Its durable construction can withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor activities. The 650ml capacity strikes a balance between portability and functionality, making it suitable for various adventures, from hiking and camping to day trips and everyday use.

One of the standout features of the Brand C Water Filter Bottle is its filtration technology. Its filter utilizes a combination of activated carbon, hollow fiber membrane, and antibacterial beads, ensuring thorough and effective filtration. This innovative approach removes harmful contaminants while improving taste and odor, giving you clean and refreshing water.

Using the Brand C Water Filter Bottle is straightforward. Simply fill the bottle with water from any source – tap, stream, or lake – and let the filter do its job. The filtering process is quick and efficient, thanks to its high flow rate, allowing you to hydrate without waiting for extended periods of time.

Portability is a key feature of the Brand C Water Filter Bottle. It comes with a durable carrying strap, enabling easy transportation during your outdoor adventures. The bottle is also designed to fit most standard cup holders and backpack pockets, ensuring that it is always within reach when you need it.

Maintenance is hassle-free with the Brand C Water Filter Bottle. The filter can be easily backwashed to remove any impurities and extend its lifespan. Replacement filters are readily available, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy clean and safe drinking water on your future trips.

In summary, the Brand C Water Filter Bottle offers versatility, durability, and effective filtration. Whether you’re camping in the wilderness, exploring new cities, or simply want a reliable water filter bottle for everyday use, this option delivers. With its unique filter technology, you can trust that your water will be free from harmful contaminants, allowing you to stay hydrated and healthy throughout your travels.

Brand D Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand D Water Filter Bottle is a top-of-the-line choice for travelers who value both functionality and style. This bottle combines innovative filtration technology with a sleek and portable design, making it a reliable companion for all your adventures.

The Brand D Water Filter Bottle boasts a multi-stage filtration system that effectively removes a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, protozoa, heavy metals, and chlorine. This ensures that you have access to clean and safe drinking water, no matter where your journey takes you.

With a generous capacity of 800ml, the Brand D Water Filter Bottle is perfect for active travelers who need ample hydration throughout the day. The ergonomic grip and leak-proof design make it comfortable to hold and carry, while the BPA-free construction ensures both durability and safety.

One of the key features of the Brand D Water Filter Bottle is its sleek and stylish design. Its modern aesthetics make it a standout accessory that you’ll be proud to carry. Whether you’re exploring a bustling city or trekking through the wilderness, this bottle combines functionality with a touch of sophistication.

The Brand D Water Filter Bottle is designed with convenience in mind. The wide mouth allows for easy filling and cleaning, while the quick flow rate ensures that you can quickly quench your thirst during your outdoor activities. It also fits most standard cup holders, making it an ideal choice for road trips and daily commutes.

In terms of maintenance, the Brand D Water Filter Bottle is simple to care for. The filter can be easily replaced when needed, and replacement filters are readily available. The long lifespan of the filter ensures that you can enjoy clean and filtered water for extended periods of time before requiring a replacement.

In summary, the Brand D Water Filter Bottle combines innovation, durability, and style. With its multi-stage filtration system, generous capacity, and sleek design, it is a versatile and reliable choice for travelers who want both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Stay hydrated in style with the Brand D Water Filter Bottle on your next adventure.

Brand E Water Filter Bottle

Description: The Brand E Water Filter Bottle offers a reliable and portable solution for travelers seeking clean and safe drinking water. With its advanced filtration technology and user-friendly design, this bottle is a great choice for those on the go.

The Brand E Water Filter Bottle features a durable and lightweight construction, making it perfect for travel and outdoor activities. It has a 1-liter capacity, providing ample hydration throughout the day. The built-in carry handle adds convenience and makes it easy to transport during your adventures.

Equipped with an advanced filtration system, the Brand E Water Filter Bottle effectively removes bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, ensuring that you have access to clean and safe drinking water. This filtration technology provides peace of mind, especially when encountering questionable water sources during your travels.

Filling up the Brand E Water Filter Bottle is a breeze. Simply scoop water from any available source – a tap, river, or even a natural spring – and let the filter do its job. The bottle’s high flow rate ensures that you can have a refreshing drink without having to wait for extended periods of time.

The maintenance of the Brand E Water Filter Bottle is hassle-free. The filter can be easily replaced when it reaches the end of its lifespan. Replacement filters are readily available, allowing you to continue enjoying clean and filtered water during your future trips.

Portability is a notable feature of the Brand E Water Filter Bottle. The lightweight design and compact size make it easy to carry in your backpack or attach to your gear. Whether you’re hiking, backpacking, or traveling to remote destinations, this bottle is designed to keep you hydrated every step of the way.

In summary, the Brand E Water Filter Bottle offers reliability, portability, and clean filtration. With its advanced filtration system, durable construction, and convenient design, it is a top choice for travelers who need a reliable source of clean drinking water. Stay hydrated and healthy with the Brand E Water Filter Bottle during your next adventure.

Comparison of the Top Travel Water Filter Bottles

Choosing the right travel water filter bottle can be a daunting task with so many options available. To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare the top travel water filter bottles we’ve discussed:

Brand A Water Filter Bottle:

• Durable and sleek design
• Advanced filtration system
• 750ml capacity
• Long-lasting filter (up to 1,500 liters)
• Easy to use and maintain

Brand B Water Filter Bottle:

• Compact and lightweight
• Combination of activated carbon and fiber membrane filters
• 500ml capacity
• Quick and efficient filtration
• Convenient for on-the-go use

Brand C Water Filter Bottle:

• Durable construction with a carrying strap
• Unique filter technology
• 650ml capacity
• Quick and effective filtration
• Portable and versatile

Brand D Water Filter Bottle:

• Sleek and stylish design
• Multi-stage filtration system
• 800ml capacity
• Ergonomic grip and leak-proof design

Brand E Water Filter Bottle:

• Durable and lightweight construction
• Advanced filtration technology
• 1-liter capacity
• Easy to fill and use
• Portable and convenient

When comparing these options, consider your specific needs and preferences. Pay attention to factors such as filtration mechanism, capacity, portability, durability, and maintenance requirements. Think about the types of contaminants you may encounter during your travels and choose a filter that can effectively remove those.

Additionally, consider the overall design and aesthetic appeal of the bottle. Some travelers may prioritize style and want a bottle that looks sleek and modern, while others may prioritize functionality and prefer a more compact and lightweight design.

Finally, take price into account, considering both the upfront cost of the bottle and the long-term cost of replacement filters. This will help you find a balance between quality and affordability.

By carefully comparing these top travel water filter bottles, you can make an educated decision and choose the one that best suits your needs and travel style. Remember, the right travel water filter bottle will ensure that you have access to clean and safe drinking water wherever your adventures take you.

Choosing the right travel water filter bottle is crucial for ensuring safe and clean drinking water during your adventures. By considering factors such as filtration mechanism, capacity, portability, durability, and maintenance requirements, you can find the perfect water filter bottle that meets your needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we have discussed the importance of a travel water filter bottle for staying hydrated and healthy while traveling. We explored the factors to consider when choosing a water filter bottle, including the filtration mechanism, flow rate, capacity, durability, portability, maintenance, and price.

We also provided our top picks for the best travel water filter bottles on the market. Each of these brands – Brand A, Brand B, Brand C, Brand D, and Brand E – offers unique features, but they all prioritize functionality, reliability, and clean filtration.

When making your final decision, consider your specific needs and preferences, as well as the types of contaminants you may encounter during your travels. Additionally, think about the overall design and aesthetic appeal of the bottle, as well as the long-term cost of replacement filters.

Remember, a travel water filter bottle is not just a convenient and eco-friendly solution; it is also a health investment. With the right water filter bottle by your side, you can confidently drink from various water sources, knowing that you’re protected against harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and contaminants.

So, before embarking on your next journey, equip yourself with a reliable travel water filter bottle and ensure that safe and clean drinking water is always within reach. Stay hydrated, stay healthy, and embrace the world with confidence!

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9 Best Water Filters, Tested by Experts

These are our top-tested picks for the whole house, sink, countertop, shower and more.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Under-the-Sink Water Filter

Aquasana 3-stage max flow under sink water filter.

Best Water Filter Pitcher

Brita everyday water filter pitcher with longlast+ filter.

Best Shower Filter

Jolie the filtered showerhead.

Best Small Water Filter Pitcher

Lifestraw home 7-cup glass water filter pitcher.

Best Water Filter Bottle

Brita water bottle with filter.

Best Countertop Water Filter

Brita hub instant powerful countertop water filter system.

Best Water Filter Pitcher to Deactivate Bacteria

Larq purevis pitcher with advanced water filter.

Most Stylish Water Filter Carafe

Soma glass carafe.

Best Water Filter Faucet

Culligan faucet-mount advanced water filter.

If tap water is your go-to for daily hydration, it might be time to integrate a water filter into your kitchen. Water filters are designed to purify your water by eliminating harmful impurities such as chlorine, lead and pesticides, with the level of removal varying by the filter's sophistication. They can also improve the taste — and in some cases, the clarity — of the water.

You can read more about how we evaluate water filters in our Labs — plus everything you need to know to shop for the best water filter — at the end of this guide. Looking to up your water intake on the go? Check out our guide to the best water bottles.

G et filtered water for up to six months by simply turning on the tap . This under-the-sink filter system eliminates chlorine, heavy metals, cysts, herbicides, pesticides, VOCs and more. It's also the one used in the home of former GH Institute Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D .

“I use filtered water for absolutely everything from cooking to coffee-making, so tabletop water filters can’t keep up with my use,” she said. “With this one, there's no need to refill any carafes or tanks.” It has a high flow rate, however it requires installation.

As one of our top-tested water filters, Brita's Longlast+ filter removed more than 30 contaminants such as chlorine, heavy metals, carcinogens, endocrine disruptors and more. We appreciated its speedy filtering, coming in at 38 seconds per cup. Compared to its predecessor, it lasts six months rather than two, and it doesn’t leave black carbon specks in the water.

Former GH Institute Chief Technologist and Executive Technical Director Rachel Rothman used this water pitcher in her five-person household. She loved the taste of the water and that she did not have to constantly change the filter. One minor downside is that it needs to be washed by hand.

Unofficially dubbed the "shower head of the Internet," Jolie has certainly become one of the most popular, particularly for its sleek design. Our extensive home testing confirmed that it does live up to the hype. Unlike other shower filters we've tested , the Jolie Filtered Showerhead is an all-in-one design that takes minimal effort to set up. GH Commerce Editor Jacqueline Saguin said it took her about 15 minutes to set up.

We found that it offers excellent chlorine filtration. Its filter contains a proprietary blend of KDF-55 and calcium sulfate, which the brand claimed is better than typical carbon-based filters at capturing contaminants from hot, high-pressure shower water. After nearly a year of use, Saguin noticed "less scale buildup near the drain of the tub," adding that the "water feels softer without any sacrifice in pressure."

Keep in mind that the cost of the shower head itself is steep as is the price of the replacement filters.

Weighing in at a mere 6 pounds when filled, this small but mighty glass water filter pitcher was lightweight and easy to hold and pour during our tests . Also available in plastic, it improves the taste and clarity of water. Just note that you'll need to refill it more often since it only holds 2.5 cups of tap water. We also found that it filtered slowly.

What's more, this water pitcher uses two types of filters: a membrane microfilter and an activated carbon and ion exchange filter. Our review of the brand's third-party lab test data confirmed that it removed more than 30 contaminants , including chlorine, microplastics, sediment, heavy metals, VOCs, endocrine disruptors, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, E.coli bacteria and cysts.

Brita is a brand that consistently performed well in our Lab tests. One tester said they loved this bottle for travel because they could fill it up anywhere and know that their water would taste fresh. The bottle is available in stainless steel or plastic — testers found the double-walled stainless steel kept water cool and crisp all day long.

It's also available in a 26-ounce size, which fits most cup holders, or a 36-ounce size, which is handy if you're on a longer trek or can’t refill as often. Its built-in carrying loop makes it easier to tote around too. Some users noted that the design of the straw made it harder to drink through.

Winning a GH Kitchen Gear Award , the Brita Hub impressed our panel with its countertop water machine that can dispense water manually or automatically. The brand stated that you can go six months until replacing the filter. However, GH Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab Director Nicole Papantoniou has only had to change the filter once every seven months.

Papantoniou added: "It has a large capacity, so you don’t need to fill it up as often. [I] love the automatic pours because I can walk away while it fills up ." The one negative flagged by our pros? Once the red light turns on to change the filter, it stops working. Just make sure you have extra filters in stock.

The Larq PurVis Pitcher filters over 45 contaminants such as microplastics, heavy metals, VOCs, endocrine disruptors, PFOA and PFOS, pharmaceuticals and more. This pick also takes it a step further by using UV light to deactivate E. coli and Salmonella , which can build up in water filter pitchers when chlorine is filtered out.

In testing, we loved that the Larq app was easy to use and that it keeps track of when you need to change the filter, so there’s no guessing. It pours smoothly without splashing, and it’s dishwasher safe, except for the small rechargeable wand, which we found easy to wash by hand. Take note: The filters can be pricier than others.

You can proudly display this water filter pitcher on your table when company is over, thanks to its sleek, modern appearance. Not only does it stand out with its unique design, but our pros love that the hourglass shape makes it easy to hold.

It filters out chlorine and four heavy metals including cadmium, copper, mercury and zinc with its cleverly disguised cone filter at the top of the carafe. Our pros found this was easy to set up, fill and pour, however it needs to be washed by hand.

“It’s easy to install, inexpensive and tested to ANSI standard 42 and 53, so it is built to do a solid job filtering many contaminants,” said GH Home Improvement and Outdoor Lab Director Dan DiClerico . He especially liked the design and the fact that Culligan is a well-established brand.

This filter allows you to switch easily from unfiltered to filtered water with a simple pull of a diverter valve, and no tools are required to install this faucet filter. It filters out chlorine, sediment, lead and more. One drawback is that it makes the faucet bulkier.

How we test water filters

In the Good Housekeeping Institute , our team of engineers, chemists, product analysts and home improvement experts work together to determine the best water filters for home. We've tested more than 30 water filters over the years and continue to scan the market for new options.

To test water filters, we take into account their capacity, how easy they are to set up and, if applicable, how easy they are to pour from. We also read each instruction manual for clarity and look at whether pitcher models are dishwasher safe. We test performance factors like how quickly it filters a cup of water and measure how much water the tap water reservoir can hold.

We also verify contaminant removal claims via third-party data. We review how long each filter lasts as well as the yearly cost to replace filters when changing filters on the manufacturer's recommended schedule.

What to look for when shopping for the best water filter

✔️ Type and capacity: For pitchers, water bottles and other dispensers that hold water after it’s filtered, you’ll want to keep in mind size and weight. Larger containers are ideal for refilling less often, but they will often be heavier and may take up more space in the fridge or your backpack. A countertop model saves space in the refrigerator and often holds more water, but it requires room on the counter and will be room temperature water.

With under-the-sink water filters, faucet filters, shower filters and whole-house filters, there’s no need to worry about size or capacity as these instantaneously filter water as it flows through.

✔️ Filtration method: One thing to note is that many filters incorporate multiple filter types to achieve various contaminant removal. With some, the contaminants they remove can vary widely, so it's best to check what the model actually filters, so it suits your needs. The surest way to determine this is by checking which NSF standard the filters are certified for. For example, some standards cover only lead, like NSF 372 , while others also include agricultural and industrial toxins, like NSF 401 . Otherwise, here are the different water filtering methods:

• A ctivated carbon is the most common water filter. The carbon-based filter acts like a magnet, absorbing contaminants from the water. Multi-stage filters, or 2-stage filters, might also include a pre-filter to remove larger sediment, as well as a second carbon filter to improve odor and taste. If necessary, sometimes there is even a third filter, maybe with an additional carbon block or a UV sterilizer to kill bacteria and viruses.
• Reverse osmosis (RO) is a newer type of filter that captures contaminants by pushing pressurized water through a semi-permeable membrane. While extremely effective, it's more expensive and less efficient — many systems require a tank that won't fit under your sink. Reverse osmosis filters are only seen with water systems because it needs pressure to work. Our experts first recommend testing your water to determine whether a conventional filter can cover your filtering needs. Most water filters use either a carbon filter or a reverse osmosis water filter, which can also include a carbon filter.
• U ltrafiltration (UF) is another technology you might also hear about. Like RO, it forces water through semipermeable membranes. Because the pore size of the UF membranes is bigger, these systems don't capture all contaminants, including total dissolved solids (TDS) like chlorine and fluoride; we did not review any UF systems for this reason.
• Mineral/alkaline filter adds minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium. According to the Mayo Clinic, alkaline water has a higher pH level than plain tap water. Some studies also suggest that alkaline water might help slow bone loss . However, further studies are needed to determine whether these benefits are long-term.

✔️ Filter replacement frequency: Check how often you have to replace the filter. If you dread changing the filter or simply forget, you may want to look for a long-lasting filter. Also, if you buy filters for the shower, water pitcher and sink, you’ll have to remember to change each of those separately, so it might be smart to consider a whole-house filter that requires only one filter replacement for the entire home.

No matter which water filter you opt for, it’s no good if you don’t change the filter as recommended. “The performance of the water filter depends on the quality of the water source and whether or not the filters are replaced regularly,” Aral said. Some models come with indicators, but if a model doesn’t include one, a slower flow rate or different-colored water are signs that you need to change the filter.

✔️ Price: Consider both the upfront price of the water filter device and the filter refill costs. A water filter could cost more initially, but the price and frequency of the filter refills may save money over the long term. But that’s not always the case, so be sure to calculate the yearly cost of replacements based on the recommended schedule for changing.

Do you really need a water filter?

Access to safe drinking water is an issue across the globe, and it affects communities in the United States. If you’re not sure about your water quality, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) updated its Tap Water Database in 2021. It’s free and easy to search, and it has information for all states.

Enter your zip code or search your state to find details on your drinking water quality based on EWG standards (which are stricter than those of the government). If your tap water does exceed EWG health guidelines, it may be a good idea to consider buying a water filter.

Opting for bottled water is a short-term solution to potentially unsafe drinking water, but it creates a larger problem with serious long-term implications around pollution. Americans throw away a whopping 30 million tons of plastic a year , only 8% of which is recycled. The majority ends up in landfills because there are many different regulations about what can be recycled. Your best bet is to get a water filter and a cute reusable water bottle — some even have filters built-in.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

This article was written and tested by Jamie (Kim) Ueda , who is an analyst (and consistent user!) of water filtration products. She’s a freelance writer specializing in product testing and reviews. For this list, she tested several water filters and worked with experts across several Good Housekeeping Institute Labs: Kitchen Appliances and Innovation; Beauty, Health, and Sustainability; Home Improvement and Outdoors; and Media and Tech.

Nicole Papantoniou contributed insight on the ease of use of pitchers and bottles. Birnur Aral, Ph.D. helped evaluate the contamination-removal claims behind each of our picks. Dan DiClerico and Rachel Rothman provided expertise on installed filters.

Jamie Kim is a consumer products expert with over 17 years of experience in areas of product development and manufacturing. She has held leading roles at both mid-size consumer goods companies and one of the most notable and largest apparel brands in the world. Jamie has contributed to several of the GH Institute Labs, including Kitchen Appliances, Media and Tech, Textiles and Home Appliances. In her free time she enjoys cooking, traveling, and working out.

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Home » Gear » best filtered water bottles

The 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel and Hiking • 2024

Everybody loves water right? Even if you don’t think you do, believe me your body absolutely adores the stuff. Personally, I drink litres and lites of the stuff each and every day and could even drink a tree under the table (obviously the table would be a metal one…)

And if you’re here, it’s presumably because you love water too but more specifically, cos you’re looking for the best-filtered water bottle that money can buy.  Good call.

A semi-decent filtration water bottle may be a life saver when out on a hike and will even take the edge off tap water when you’re at home. But if you’re looking for a filtered water bottle for sustained travel, prolonged backpacking, and serious survival activities then a semi-decent bottle just won’t cut it. You need the best.

In this post we are going to look at the best filtered water bottles for travel, camping, hiking and surviving that money can buy you in 2024.

Quick Answer: The Best Filtered Water Bottles

The top 8 best filtered water bottles, the importance of water purification – why you should travel with a filtered water bottle, choosing a filtered water bottle for you – a buyer’s guide, the best filtered water bottles – tried, tested and rated, the 8 best filtered water bottles at a glance, faq about the best filtered water bottles, final thoughts on buying a filtered water bottle for travel.

• Best Overall Filtered Water Bottle –  Grayl Geopress Purifier Bottle
• Runner-Up for Best Filtered Water Bottle – LifeStraw Go Water Bottle
• Best Cheap Filtered Water Bottle – Epic Water Filters Epic Nalgene OG
• Best Ultralight Filtered Water Bottle – Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle
•   Best Filtered Water Bottle for Extreme Conditions –  Seychelle Extreme Water Filter Bottle
• Best Stainless Steel Filtered Water Bottle –  Clearly Filtered No.1 Filtered Water Bottle
• Best Glass Filtered Water Bottle –  Escape Glass Filtered Water Bottle
• Best 1 Litre Filtered Water Bottle – OKO H2O Advanced Filtration Bottle
• Jump to ->  Bottle Round-Up

Grayl Geopress Purifier Bottle

• Price > $$$
• Size > 24 fl oz

LifeStraw Go Water Bottle

• Size > 22 fl oz

Epic Water Filters Epic Nalgene OG

• Size > 32 fl oz

Grayl Ultralight Purifier Bottle

• Size > 16.9 fl oz

Seychelle Extreme Water Filter Bottle

• Size > 28 fl oz

Clearly Filtered No.1 Filtered Water Bottle

• Size > 20 fl oz

Escape Glass Filtered Water Bottle

OKO H2O Advanced Filtration Water Bottle

• Size > 34 fl oz

As a traveler, it’s essential to stay hydrated, especially when exploring new and unfamiliar places. However, tap water quality can be questionable in some destinations, and buying bottled water can be expensive and environmentally damaging. That’s where filtered water bottles come in.

Filtered water bottles are a must-have item for any traveler, and there are several reasons why. Firstly, they provide clean drinking water, no matter where you are in the world. Using a filtration system, they remove impurities and contaminants from the water, ensuring that it’s safe to drink. This is particularly important in areas where tap water quality is questionable or when you’re hiking in the wilderness and need to refill your bottle from a natural water source.

Secondly, filtered water bottles are an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic water bottles. Travelers often generate a significant amount of plastic waste, and buying bottled water can contribute to this problem. By using a filtered water bottle, you can significantly reduce your environmental impact and help protect the planet.

Cheap Water Purification Methods: Some Budget-Friendly Number Crunching

Thirdly, using a filtered water bottle can actually save you money in the long run. In some touristy areas, prices for bottled water can be inflated, and buying multiple bottles can quickly add up. With a filtered water bottle, you can refill for free at public water fountains or natural sources, saving you money and reducing your reliance on single-use plastics. Seriously, while paying $50 up front may feel like a lot, I spent that in one month on bottles water in India…

In addition to the practical benefits, using a filtered water bottle can also improve the taste of water. Tap water in some destinations can have an unpleasant taste or odor due to high levels of chlorine or other impurities. A filtered water bottle can remove these impurities, making the water taste fresher and more enjoyable to drink.

In conclusion, a filtered water bottle is an essential item for any traveler. It provides clean drinking water, reduces environmental impact, saves you money, improves taste, and is incredibly convenient. Investing in a filtered water bottle is a wise decision that will benefit both you and the planet. Don’t leave home without one!

Ok, so now that you’re questioning how you ever made do without a water filtration bottle, let’s talk about how you can find the right one!

Since we’re doing this in threes, there are three things to keep in mind when hunting down and choosing your water filter drinking bottle: the material, the size, and the coverage of protection. Consider these wisely and you’ll be stoked on the investment you made into your anywhere-anytime water drinking experience.

Your Water Bottle’s Material

You’ve got three (hah, see) basic choices with this each with their own pros and cons:

• Plastic – But you said plastic was the antichrist and- Hey! Not all plastics are equally evil – some have just committed offences considered especially heinous. Pretty much any filtered drinking bottle (unless they’re particularly terrible) will be constructed from BPA-free plastic. The especially good amongst those will be constructed from Tritan which is both BPA-free and durable as all hell. The down shot to plastic is that there is almost no insulation (so your water will be life-nourishing but not at a refreshing-cool temperature) and they’ll still never be as durable as steel.
• Stainless Steel – Tougher and stronger than plastic, a stainless steel filter water bottle will survive all the calamities of travel and is the optimal choice for clobbering someone. If you’re ever in the situation where you need to beat someone up with a water bottle, go for stainless steel. But at the cost of all that extra toughness (and insulation) comes the extra weight. This makes it not always the preferred option for the outdoor adventurers seeking how to purify water in the wild.
• Glass – Yeah, I wouldn’t really recommend a glass water bottle with a filter. The perks? Well, it’s glass, I guess; drinking out of glass is nice. The cons? I mean, it’s glass. You figure it out.

Your Water Bottle’s Size

I think this kind of goes without saying, but for the best travel filtered water bottle, you want one that fits nicely in your hand, backpack, or anywhere else. At the very least, it shouldn’t be so big that hanging it from your person with a carabiner becomes a highly optimised form of self-flagellation.

The bigger it is, the heavier it is. But also, the bigger it is, the less you have to refill it. It’s a trade-off.

Generally speaking, sizes range from about 500-1000 mL (17-34 fl oz). The bottom end of the scale gives you something more ultralight; the top end will be bulkier but you’ll also be stopping for refills half as much. See, maths is useful! It all depends on how much pure drinking water you think you need.

Choose what’s right for your preference but remember that it’s another addition to your pack’s size so take in all the usual considerations you would with any gear purchase.

Your Water Bottle’s Coverage of Protection

The last thing to consider is what exact nasties your filtered water bottle filters out. Some filter bottles are not made, in any form, to combat the conditions of third-world water drinking sources. They’re more for filtering out that ‘yukky tap water’ sensation from all that terrible clean free drinking water when you’re hitting the gym in your activewear for spin class.

But the best filtration system water bottles for travel, hiking, and adventuring tend to stand up to a bit more. That said, even amongst the premium choices, they don’t all offer the same protections. Not all water purifier bottles are able to remove viruses, heavy metals, or other gut-wrenchers.

Depending on where you’re going and just how extreme you are (and how apprehensive you are about dysentery), it’s crucial your water purifying system is properly covering your ass (hah).

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So, here it is. Let’s do this. The top 8 best filtered water bottles!

1. Grayl Geopress Purifier Bottle – Best Overall Filtered Water Bottle

This is it: the ‘whoa, mama’ choice. If you’re really after the absolute best water filtration bottle for travelling, then you can give up on the rest of my extremely well-written and well-researched article and just grab yourself a Grayl Geopress . Actually, if you’re super-serious about your water filtering, I would urge you to have a look at our in-depth review .

Grayl bottles are damn good. They’re so good, in fact, that they make this list twice! In terms of usage, it functions similarly to an AeroPress (in reverse). Water goes in the outer sleeve, you push the filter in, and the water filters into the inner container ready to be drunk without murdering your stomach lining. It’s a simple yet highly effective method of water purification.

You see, the Grayl water purifier removes just about anything that’s out to ruin your day 24-48 hours after ingestion and the following incubation period. Its water filter removes viruses and heavy metals (on top of the standard bacteria and parasites) so you’re protected against anything you’ll find in a stagnant puddle or worse.

Size-wise, the Grayl Geopress cuts a fine balance. Carrying 24 fl oz (710 ml for all my metric bros) of liquid and weighing 15.9 oz (450 grams), it’s big (and durable) enough while still fitting nicely into your backpack. Or hanging off a carabiner without repeatedly striking you in the worst possible location…

Price-wise, you’re looking at the premium option. It’s on the top end of the spectrum for filter bottle prices but it also tops the chart in quality. It’s one of those ‘worth the investment’ choices.

And, of course, the most important question – does it work? You’re damn right it does! We’ve put the Grayl Geopress Purifier Bottle through its damn paces (including trekking expeditions in the Karakoram in Pakistan) and the little beauty has come out on top every damn time. No poops; no pukes; no Cholera . The way it should be.

So what’s the hold-up? You were looking for the best filtered water bottle for travel, hiking and anything else, right? Well, this is it!

2. LifeStraw Go Water Bottle – Runner-Up for Best Overall Filtered Water Bottle

Here’s the deal: I can’t give a personal hands-on of the LifeStraw bottle but I can give one of the LifeStraw filter itself. It carried me through 5 months in South Asia and into Southeast Asia and it’s still going strong.

That was on one filter straw, mind you. Not a single replacement was needed. One LifeStraw water filter lasts for approximately 1000 gallons (4000L) of water so it comes with the peace of mind that you’re not going to suddenly be filter-less mid-adventure.

Of course, there has to be a caveat with the LifeStraw Go Water Bottle to make it runner-up. There is and that’s in your protection coverage. The LifeStraw bottle falls short in this area filtering out only protozoa: no viruses, chemicals, or heavy metals. For this reason, it falls behind in the race of the LifeStraw vs. the Grayl.

But if full coverage isn’t something you need, then the LifeStraw Go is an excellent choice. Coming in at a much more digestible price, the water bottle is a good size (22 fl oz/650 ml) and weight (10 oz/285 g). It’s also durable; I watched a mate drop his down a few mountains in the Himalayas and he just kept sipping water from it like it was no problem.

3. Epic Water Filters Epic Nalgene OG -Best Cheap Filtered Water Bottle

We have all probably owned a Nalgene at some point. This Epic Nalgene OG filter bottle by Epic Walter Filters takes the same classic bottle we all enjoy up a few notches by adding the cleverly designed water filter element. Practical, easy to use, and very importantly – this bottle won’t break the bank either.

The Epic Nalgene OG uses their patented  Everyday Filter  system – and as the name implies – it is intended for everyday use. Like any filter bottle, the filter does not have an endless life span and the filter will need to be replaced after roughly 75 gallons. Speaking from experience – I typically end up filtering 3-4 liters of water per day when I am traveling or backpacking so one filter can get me through almost two months on the road or in the mountains.

For the best budget option for hikers and backpackers on this list – The Epic Water Filters Epic Nalgene OG is a truly excellent product!

If you are going to be in countries with ultra-sketchy water sources, keep in mind the Epic Nalgene OG is not a complete purifier. 

4. Grayl Ultralight Water Purifier Bottle – Best Ultralight Filtered Water Bottle

I told you Grayl bottles made the list twice. This is Grayl’s ultralight option for all the gram-counting fiends. It’s smaller than the Geopress holding only 16.9 fl oz (500 mL) and weighing in at 10.9 oz (310 g).

That’s about your only difference though because all of the high-quality badittude of the Geopress still carries over. The Grayl Ultralight still filters out all the terrible beasties, it’s still made of high-quality materials, and it still kicks ass.

It comes in at a lower price than the Geopress and doesn’t hurt as much if you drop it on your toe. Its lower weight and smaller frame make this the best filtered bottle for hiking and anything outdoors where the bulky choice doesn’t cut it.

The only real negative is you have to fill it up twice as much… but, oh well. You can’t have your cake and eat it too!

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5. Seychelle Extreme Water Filter Bottle – Best Filtered Water Bottle for Extreme Conditions

When I say extreme conditions, I’m mean extreme conditions. The Seychelle water filtration bottle does it all. It does your bacteria, your viruses, your protozoa, your radiological contaminants… wait, what?

Yup! On top of all the other much-needed protection, you have the extra layer against biohazards with the Seychelle water filter bottle. This one is for you, Chernobyl Exclusion Zone spelunkers.

The Seychelle Extreme Water Bottle even filters out fluoride. It really is the one-stop-shop for all your water purification needs.

The downside is the design; I mean, just look at the thing. You’d think a high-tech filtration bottle that filters out radioactive contaminants would look less like the bottle I took to school when I was seven. It’s clunky and unwieldy and coming in at 28 fl oz (830 mL) just makes it a bit more chunky than necessary.

But, I suppose, the ability to still drink clean water after the nuclear fallout crisis inevitably arrives and we’re all driving super-charged dune buggies across apocalyptic wastes is worth the added bulk.

6. Clearly Filtered No.1 Filtered Water Bottle – Best Stainless Steel Filtered Water Bottle

If life was a Jackie Chan movie where you partook in a series of increasingly zany fights using household objects as weapons, then this would be the bottle to bitchslap some generic henchman with.

It’s stainless steel: that means you’re going to have a seriously difficult time breaking it no matter how many Himalayan mountains you drop it off! That also means that the bottle has some insulation to keep your water refreshingly cool (or heart-meltingly warm) while you adventure.

The Clearly Filtered also filters out all the nasties (with a disclaimer): viruses, bacteria, and metals begone! It’s even a water bottle that filters fluoride!

So what’s not so awesome? Well, its construction just isn’t as tight as many of the other entries on this list. It doesn’t feel as well put-together as a lot of other water filter drinking bottles with the lid having some noticeable threading difficulties.

Regardless, if a stainless steel filter water bottle is your preference, the Clearly Filtered is one of the better ones out there. It’s one of the best-insulated filter water bottles you’ll find that also covers you for all the murderous organisms that are out to ruin your lactose tolerance.

7. Escape Glass Filtered Water Bottle – Best Glass Filtered Water Bottle

Now, mind you, I don’t know why you’d want a glass filter bottle for travelling. If we were graphing drops off Himalayan mountaintops survived by filtered water bottles, then the Escape Bottle would certainly come last.

But, it’s still a good filtration bottle that comes with all the bells and whistles you’ve come to expect from the best water purifier bottles. Replaceable filter that protects you from the whole shebang ( BUT (and here’s that disclaimer), not with the stock filter; you have to buy the Outdoor filter separately), and it comes in a silicone sleeve (to counter that whole ‘made of glass’ thing). It also feels fancier to drink from because everybody knows that drinking from glass tastes better.

It is worth noting that both the Escape and Outback bottles (they’re made by the same dudes) are a hard purchase to justify. I’ve included them here for the folks who don’t want plastic but the hard truth is that for nearly the same price you could be purchasing a Grayl Geopress (the premium option), or one of the other cheaper purifier bottles on this list, and it would be a much better purchase all-round.

Still, if you’re after a glass filtered water bottle, this the choice for you.

8. OKO H2O Advanced Filtration Bottle – Best 1 Litre (34 fl oz) Filtered Water Bottle

Oh, so 700 ml wasn’t enough? And 800 ml wasn’t enough? The 500 ml ultralight water bottle definitely wasn’t enough then…

Well, ok, this is for you… you thirsty son-of-a-bitch.

The OKO H2O is made from NASA technology which means that you’re basically an astronaut with one of these. It’s got all you need: durable Tritan plastic (yep, back to plastic) and a filter that covers you for the worst-of-the-worst (although only reduces chemicals, fluoride, and metals present).

It’s also pretty damn lightweight for the size! It comes in at 5.2 oz (145 grams) which is good because, given its volume, you’ll probably be hanging it off your pack or belt.

Oh, on that, you don’t have to get the Papa Bear size; it comes in a Mama Bear and Baby Bear size too. That means it gets even lighter making this another good filtered water bottle for hiking and long walks into the wild.

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Right, so there are all your precious details. By now, I hope, you have a general idea of what’s the best water filter bottle for your needs.

If you want to see how the choices stack up against each other, look below. I’ve got a quick comparison of the individual specs and a comparison of the pros and cons too. After that, check out the FAQ to see if any of the burning questions about filtered bottles that you may have are answered.

The Hateful Eight’s Specs Roundup:

It’s all about them specs!

The Hateful Eight’s Pros and Cons Roundup

Let’s call this the tl;dr section of the roundup.

Frequently Asked Questions on Water Purifier Bottles

• Do filtered water bottles filter out beneficial minerals? Nope, you’ll be still getting all your nutrients. That said, if you’re travelling somewhere water needs a filter, it’s a good idea to drink water with the electrolyte powder added on occasion just to ensure your body is still getting the best.
• Are filtered water bottles dishwasher-safe? Some are, some aren’t. But, like, seriously… that’s a really dumb question. Like, just wash it by hand, dude. When did washing the dishes go outta vogue…?
• How do I clean my filtered bottle? Again, weird question. Soap and water, man… c’mon.
• Is a filtration bottle refrigerator-safe? The fridge is fine but I’d advise against sticking it in the freezer. Those filters are fancy tech!
• How do I know when my filter needs replacing? It can vary from filter to filter but eventually, your flow rate will slow to a crawl or stop entirely. In the case of the Grayl bottles, the pumping process will have slowed dramatically.
• Do I really need a filtered water bottle? I’m sorry, did you skip the part about my mate Tyrone?

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

Is there water you can’t filter?

That depends on your bottle. Most basic filters are made for tap water purification. If you invest in a high quality filter bottle, you can even go for the muddy river water in India without an issue.

Is filtered water 100% safe?

If you choose your filter bottle from our list, then yes, filtered water is prefectly safe and, in fact, very healthy.

Why should I invest in a filtered water bottle?

Three simple reasons: 1. You can safe the planet 2. You can save a hell lot of money 3. You’ll never run out of water, even in secluded areas (if there is a water source near)

What is the best filter bottle for travelling?

Easy! The Grayl Geopress is our absolute go-to. No matter where you are in the world, this bottle can filter even the nastiest water.

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To be brutally, savagely honest, I kinda think you’re a dillweed if you don’t buy one.

The fact is, you’ve gotta travel with a bottle . If you’re not doing that already, we’re going to have a serious chat. The impact of plastic bottles on the environment is abhorrent: don’t be a part of the problem.

But if you’re travelling, a standard drink bottle isn’t going to get you very far. You’ll still have to buy purified water to put in your travel bottle… which probably means buying a plastic bottle of water.

Do you want to know how many countries the CDC (Centre for Disease Control) has declared to have safe-for-drinking tap water? 38. Do you want to know how many countries there are in the world? 195. I’ll let you crunch that particular math.

If you’re travelling or adventuring, sooner or later, you will be somewhere without safe drinking water. Enter filtered water bottles! Science once again swooping into to save us with its crazy inventions!

Seriously, don’t skimp out on buying a filtration bottle. Get the best filtered water bottle you can. Leave the Tyrones of this world behind: take nothing but photographs!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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