The best water filters and purifiers for hiking

Learn what to look for in water filters and purifiers for hiking, and also which models are best.

Filtering water in Allt Coirre Dhorrcail heading for Ladhar Bheinn and Coire Bheithe Knoydart Scotland

by Ben Weeks |

When it comes to staying hydrated on the hill, there are options and gadgets beyond water bottles and flasks. Purifying wild water allows you to top-up on the go and means you can carry less liquid to start with. Negating the need to carry much water with you on a trek is a reasonably compelling case in itself.

As a very useful gadget for hikes, we've put together this guide to help you understand what to look for in hiking water filters and purifiers. We've also recommended the best models.

What to look for in water filters and purifiers for hiking

Weight and bulk: Most water purification options are relatively compact and lightweight, but some are more so than others. It all depends how much water you’re likely to need to purify. A big, heavy filter that takes up as much space in your pack as a large bottle of water may be of limited value on a short day-hike.

Volume of water: Do you only need something that will purify a small amount of water at a time, allowing you to top up your bottle or bladder, or will you need to treat greater quantities of water for multiple drinkers? Some devices are designed specifically for higher volumes, while others are intended for individual use.

Taste: Some chemical treatments, such as chlorine tablets, can give the water an unpleasant taste, making it much less palatable, albeit safe to drink.

Sterilising and filtering: Some treatments will sterilise water but won’t remove impurities. Others can filter out certain microscopic particles but can’t necessarily be relied upon to remove viruses. Know what water dangers you’re likely to face and choose the most appropriate treatment for those risks.

Water storage: Do you need a device that cleans and stores water, or will you be carrying a separate water bottle or bladder into which clean water can be transferred?

The best water filters and purifiers for hiking

Lifesystems Chlorine Dioxide Water Purification Tablets
Price: £10.99
Amazon

Description

Unlike typical chlorine treatments, these tablets leave no noticeable aftertaste. They’re light

Lifesystems Chlorine Dioxide Water Purification Tablets

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
Price: £22.46
AmazonAmazon Prime

Description

This device is used like a straw to filter water as the individual sucks it up, whether drinking

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

3. MSR TrailShot 

Description

Whether being used to drink direct from the source, or to fill up a bottle or bladder, the

MSR TrailShot

Katadyn BeFree Gravity Water Filtration System 3L
Price: £66.76
AmazonAmazon Prime

Description

Holding 3 litres of water, the BeFree Gravity system is perfect for base camps or larger groups,

Katadyn BeFree Gravity Water Filtration System 3L

Steripen Adventurer Opti UV Water Purifier

Rrp: £85.95

Price: £74.94
AmazonAmazon Prime

Description

The Steripen utilises UV light to eliminate bacteria, protozoa and viruses. It doesn’t remove

Steripen Adventurer Opti UV Water Purifier

Get half-price digital OS Maps. Trail and Country Walking magazine members get 50% off an annual subscription to OS Maps for 12 months. Find out more here.

Don't forget to subscribe to the Live For The Outdoors newsletter to get expert advice and outdoor inspiration delivered to your inbox!

Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us