Revealing 11 Best Portable Water Filters You Need In Your Life

Are you a frequent traveler to exotic locales or to just anywhere in the great outdoors? If so, staying safely hydrated is imperative, as is the search for the best portable water filter.

You can’t just drink straight from local water sources without risking your health. Nor should you lug around disposable plastic bottles for the sake of the environment and your own convenience. That’s when packing the right water filter comes into play. 

In this article, we discuss what you should consider when choosing a portable water filter and some buying advice on the best products in the market. So, before planning your next outdoor adventure, let’s break down your options for safe and convenient water on the go.

Keeping Safely Hydrated While Traveling

Clean drinking water is an absolute necessity, particularly when traveling to areas with limited safe water sources. When on the road, it is crucial to have access to safe and clean water to avoid contracting waterborne infections. Water availability and safety are critical travel considerations, and it is imperative to research and plan accordingly. 

Many countries have limited or no access to clean drinking water due to water shortages, inadequate sanitation, and lack of infrastructure. Moreover, water sources can become undrinkable due to contamination caused by natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

A portable water filter is a wonderful solution for ensuring access to healthy drinking water when traveling. These filters are ideal for travelers because they are portable, lightweight, and simple. They remove toxins and impurities from water, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, rendering it safe for ingestion.

11 Best Portable Water Filters in the Market

Now that you know a bit about portable water filters, let’s take a look at some of the best ones available in the market:

1. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

Because of their simple, compact, and efficient design, LifeStraw water filters can be moved and utilized in various freshwater situations. 

The LifeStraw’s extremely small micron allows it to filter germs and parasites. It has a 22-ounce (1 liter) filter capacity and lasts about four years with normal use. The LifeStraw Go Bottle costs around $40. 

I’ve personally used this one, and it’s one of my favorites. They’re extremely convenient and easy to use, and I’ve used them in countries worldwide without getting sick. You don’t have to worry about getting sick from the drinking water from South America to Southeast Asia. Saving so much money and the environment in the process.

The LifeStraw Go bottle is the best filter for traveling overseas and is a terrific alternative to purchasing water in throwaway plastic bottles.

2. Katadyn BeFree

With the supplied HydraPak bottle, the BeFree lets you drink from a regular water bottle, with the water going straight through the filter to your mouth. The small filter fits inside the bottle, the bottle’s wide mouth makes refilling simple, and the entire system weighs only 2.3 ounces (65.2 g).

Compared to other options, the BeFree has a lifespan of 1,000 liters. Therefore, when you reach this limit, it’s time to replace the old filter. Please note that the filter is designed to fit 1.65-inch (42-mm) openings.

Katadyn BeFree costs around $50.

3. Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System

Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System features a compact filter that removes contaminants using a hollow fiber membrane. This portable filter weighs 2 ounces (57 grams) and fits in the palm of your hand. It can filter up to 17 fluid ounces (0.5 liters) of water in one go and around 100,000 gallons (378,541 L) in a single cartridge. Sawyer Mini costs around $37. 

With a 0.004-inch (0.1 millimeters) particle size, it can successfully remove germs and pathogens from any source of freshwater. It is lightweight and long-lasting but has a slow flow rate.

4. Grayl 24oz GeoPress Purifier

The Grayl GeoPress purifies approximately 24 oz (0.7 L) of water at a time, making it best suited for on-the-go hydration when water sources are consistently accessible. It’s worth noting that the purifier cartridge has a limited lifespan of only 65 gallons (246 L).

The Grayl purifier is a great choice when traveling and seeking an alternative to disposable plastic bottles. The Grayl GeoPress costs $100. 

5. Platypus GravityWorks (4L)

The Platypus GravityWorks is undoubtedly one of the most practical purifiers on the market, and it has become a camping must. This device does not require pumping, can purify up to four liters of water simultaneously, and has a rapid flow rate of 0.46 gal (1.75L) per minute.

Gravity performs all the work: Fill the 1.59-gal (6 L) “dirty” reservoir, hang it from a nearby tree or boulder, and you will have four liters of drinkable water within minutes.

However, the Platypus GravityWorks is not a simple tool. It costs $ 95 and consists of two bags, a filter, and a collection of tubing. 

6. MSR Guardian Purifier System

The MSR Guardian packs a water filter and purifier into the same device. The Guardian utilizes sophisticated self-cleaning technology and is significantly less prone to malfunction. The MSR is absurdly quick, with a flow rate of 0.66 gal (2.5 L) per minute. 

Aside from its $ 380 price, the MSR Guardian is notably heavier and bulkier than typical filters. It weighs about a pound and compresses to the equivalent of a 0.26-gal (1 L) water bottle.

7. HydroBlu Versa Flow Water Filter

As its name implies, the HydroBlu Versa is a highly adaptable straw filter with a 0.1-micron filter capable of eradicating bacteria and parasites. It costs $26 and has a lifetime capacity of 100,000 gal (378,541 L). 

The HydroBlu is classified as a straw filter. However, it may perform a variety of functions. It can be set up as a gravity filtering system to accommodate any user, and it could also be used to drink directly from the source with a straw.

8. BKLES Portable Electric

BKLES utilizes deep ultra-filtration technology, providing the finest portable filtered water. It is portable and small, weighing only 12.35 oz (350 g). It has a filtration capacity of 26.417 gal (100,000 L) and costs around $54. 

BKLES is rechargeable. It operates all day on a single battery charge, has a multi-step filtration process, and is simple to transport so that you may go on a daylong hike. However, it is practically worthless without daily access to an electrical source.

9. pH On-the-Go

The pH On-the-Go costs about $37, among the most convenient solutions for anyone in a rush. These pouch filters can be dropped directly into a cup or bottle of water to remove harmful impurities rapidly.

Each pouch can filter up to 416 cups (98.4 L) of water. The filtration system boosts the water’s alkalinity and adds trace minerals and nutrients to ensure each sip is as beneficial as possible. It has a rapid filtering rate and also adds trace elements and minerals.

10. Katadyn Pocket Microfilter

In contrast to other portable purifiers, the Katadyn Pocket Microfilter employs a reusable filter that can be cleaned in the field. With a filter capacity of 13,000 gal (49,210 L), its 0.008-inch (0.2-mm) size allows it to filter out dirt, germs, and parasites. 

The Katadyn Pocket Filter is slightly bigger than typical portable water filters, weighing 20 oz (591 mm) and measuring 10 in (25.4 cm) in length, but it is still ideal for traveling and hiking. 

Katadyn Pocket Microfilter costs $350.

11. Survivor Filter PRO

While most portable water filters on the market function at 0.2 microns, the Survivor Filter PRO comes with a 0.01-micron size, making it 20 times more effective at removing bacteria.

At about $70, it comprises a dual hollow fiber membrane and carbon purification in its triple filtration technology. While filters with a micron size of 0.01 generally have a lower flow rate, the Survivor PRO’s flow rate of 17 fl oz (500 ml) per minute allows it to filter swiftly. 

About Portable Water Filters

Portable water filters are necessary for tourists and backpackers who require access to potable water. These filters eliminate bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and other microbes from water.

Pump and gravity filters are the two primary types of portable water filters. Pump filters force water through a filter cartridge using a manual pump, whereas gravity filters filter water using gravity.

Most portable water filters utilize a three-step filtration process, including a pre-filter to eliminate larger particles, an activated carbon filter to remove chemicals and odors, and a final filter to eradicate germs.

When choosing a portable water filter, it is crucial to consider the available filtration methods. Some filters utilize hollow fiber-activated carbon or a mix of both. 

Ceramic filters are useful for eliminating large particles, but hollow fiber filters are highly effective at removing microorganisms. Activated carbon filters’ ability to remove odors and pollutants makes them suitable for purifying water from lakes and streams.

Considerations For Choosing a Portable Water Filter

Several factors influence the selection of the best portable water filter. Consider the type of filter, the filtering process, the filter’s weight and size, the filter’s flow rate, its capacity, and its price while searching for a water filter.

• When choosing a portable water filter, it is also vital to consider the filtration process. Ceramic, activated carbon, hollow fiber, or a combination of these materials are used in filtration. Ceramic filters are the most effective at removing bigger particles, but hollow fiber filters remove pathogens.
• It is also crucial to consider the filter’s weight and size. A tiny, lightweight filter is great for hikers and travelers who wish to pack little.
• The flow rate of the filter is another crucial consideration. The filter’s flow rate, measured in liters per minute, influences the rate at which it purifies water. A higher flow rate is optimal for larger gatherings.
• The filter’s capacity is also a vital consideration. It is measured in liters and indicates how much water the filter can purify before needing to be replaced.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Best Portable Water Filters 

Is Portable Water Filter Safe?

Yes, portable water filters are safe when correctly utilized. They are designed to eliminate impurities and contaminants from water, such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and other microbes, making the water safe for drinking.

However, it is also essential to realize that portable water filters do not eliminate all toxins and may not remove certain chemicals or heavy metals, for instance. If you are uncertain about the water quality you are drinking, consult an expert on water quality or boil it before consuming it.

What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Water Filter?

Numerous considerations must be examined when purchasing a water filter, including the water source, kind of filter, filter speed, filter capacity, maintenance and replacement, pricing, and travel distance. 

Pick a water filter that fits your requirements and falls within your budget. By keeping the mentioned factors in mind, you can choose the water filter that is most suitable for you and guarantees access to clean and safe drinking water during your travels.

What is the Best Portable Water Filter?

The LifeStraw Go is often recognized as a top contender. Its compact design, user-friendly features, and effective filtration system make it a dependable option for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a convenient way to obtain clean and safe drinking water while on the move.

The LifeStraw Go incorporates a powerful filtration technology that removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, providing a convenient and effective solution for portable water purification.

How Do You Make a Portable Water Filter?

Making a portable water filter can be a fun and educational activity, but it’s important to note that homemade filters may not be as effective as commercially available filters. Here’s a simple method for making a basic portable water filter:

Materials:

1. Plastic bottle with cap
2. Clean sand
3. Activated charcoal (available at pet stores or aquarium suppliers)
4. Fine mesh screen or cheesecloth
5. Gravel or small stones

Steps:

1. Cut the bottom off of the plastic bottle and discard it.
2. Cut a piece of mesh screen or cheesecloth to fit over the bottom of the bottle and secure it with the cap.
3. Put some clean sand into the bottle and use a funnel if needed.
4. Put activated charcoal on the sand layer.
5. Put some gravel or small stones on the charcoal layer.
6. Fill the bottle with water and wait for it to filter through the layers.

Remember that this filter may not remove all contaminants, and it’s important to disinfect water properly before drinking it. Boiling water or using chemical disinfectants like chlorine tablets or iodine may be necessary. It’s also a good idea to test the filter’s effectiveness by sending water samples to a laboratory for testing.

Conclusion – Best Portable Water Filters

After reading through this curated list, you probably have a better idea about the type of water filter you require.

Whether camping in the woods or visiting a foreign destination, a high-quality water filter will keep you away from contaminated water sources, ensuring steady access to clean and safe water.

Choose well according to your travel needs. Keep hydrated!

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