SteriPEN Traveler 2011

Like its bigger brothers, the SteriPEN Traveler operates on the principle that ultra-violet (UV) light can damage microbes’ DNA and stop viruses, bacteria and parasites reproducing. The Traveler is the smaller of the SteriPEN devices, weighing in at just 96g, including batteries. It’s very small and fits neatly in the hand. Indeed its sleek design wouldn’t look out of place in the hands of a business traveller marooned in a dodgy foreign hotel. As with other SteriPEN devices it’s a simple case of loading the batteries, switching it on and placing it into a container of water. A digital display tells you when the water has been treated and is ready to drink. But like other immersion options there is no filter, so you’ll either need to select your water carefully or use additional filtration. Take care that the lip of the container doesn’t touch infected water as this device won’t kill it, so you need to take a little more care. While a litre of water at a time is enough for most walkers, group users may benefit from other devices.

Filter type ultraviolet light
Replacement complete unit £65
Effectiveness bacteria, parasites, viruses
Flow rate 0.5 litre per minute
Service life 3000 litres (lamp life)
Packed size 15.5x4x2.5cm
Running costs based on cartridge replacement 1 litre = 2.16p up to 3000 litres; 1 litre = 2.16p over 3000 litres
Weight 96g
Made in USA
Number of stores in the UK 10
Stockist details – tel. (02392) 528711; www.steripen.com