When you’re out backpacking or camping, one of the most important considerations for your health and well-being is water safety. It’s crucial to ensure that the water you consume is free from harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
Properly purifying your water will ensure you have the best experience on your trip and it’s simple to get it right with these simple strategies and techniques.In this article, we will discuss the various methods of water treatment and their pros and cons.
It is also important to know the source of the water you encounter while backpacking. Understanding where the water comes from can give you vital information about its potential contaminants and help you make informed decisions about water treatment options.
If you’re unsure about the source of the water, it’s best to assume that it’s contaminated and treat it accordingly. However, if you can identify a clean and reliable water source, such as a spring or a well-maintained tap, you may not need to treat the water before consuming it.
Water Purification Tips
- Make sure you consider your water purification strategy and water availability before starting any trip as that may change your plans and require you to carry more water from the start of the trip if it isn’t readily accessible
- Consider what you are using the water for. I typically use a variety of methods when backpacking. For instance, if I am making a hot meal I use my camping stove to boil water, but during the day if I need a quick fill-up I will use a filter or iodine tablets.
- I always try to pre-filter my water through a cloth or bandana, this helps remove silt and other contaminants. If you use a filter this will also help extend its life
Five Ways to Treat Water
1. Boiling Water
Boiling water is one of the oldest and most reliable methods of water purification. It kills most types of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, making the water safe to drink.
To boil water, follow these steps:
- Collect water from a reliable source. If the water is murky, you may want to strain it through a cloth before boiling.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Let it boil for at least one minute (or three minutes at higher altitudes).
- Allow the water to cool before consuming.
There are a couple of ways you can go about this either by building a fire or using a camping stove. It’s important to consider if you are going to a location that doesn’t allow fires and make sure to follow sustainable Leave No Trace principles.
For convenience, I prefer to bring my MSR PocketRocket Deluxe Ultralight Stove on every trip as it’s lightweight, easy to use and the flame holds up in windy conditions. Although I do love sitting around the fire for an epic backpacking experience when it is safe to do so.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – It is effective against a wide range of pathogens – Does not require any specialized equipment. | – It requires a heat source and may not be feasible in certain situations. – Boiling water does not remove chemical contaminants |
2. Chemical Treatment: Disinfection with Iodine
Chemical treatment using iodine is a popular method for water purification in backpacking. Iodine tablets or liquid can effectively kill most common waterborne pathogens and can purify water right in your bottle.
To disinfect water with iodine, follow these steps (Be sure to follow specific manufacturer instructions)
- Add the recommended number of iodine tablets or drops to the water. If the water is murky, you may want to strain it through a cloth before treating
- Wait for the specified contact time (usually around 30 minutes).
- Shake or stir the water to ensure proper mixing of iodine.
- Let the water sit for a few minutes before consuming.
- Optional: Add flavoring like Mio or water flavor tablets to minimize the iodine taste if it bothers you.
My recommendation for iodine tablets is Potable Aqua Water Purification Tablets. They are affordable, easy to use and one bottle comes with 50 tablets. I typically carry a bottle of these as a backup purification method even if I have a filtration device.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – It is lightweight, easy to carry and takes minimal space. – Effectively kills most waterborne pathogens. – Relatively quick treatment time. | – It may leave an unpleasant taste and odor in the water. – Not suitable for individuals with iodine allergies or thyroid problems. – Does not remove sediment or particles from the water. |
3. Water Filters
Water filtration is another effective method for purifying water in the backcountry. Filtration systems work by physically removing bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants from the water by straining water through a very fine porous material.
Water filters can come in many forms, pumps, gravity filters, integrated filters or squeeze filters.
To use a water filter, follow these steps (Be sure to follow specific manufacturer instructions)
- Attach the filter to a water bottle or reservoir.
- Submerge the filter in the water source.
- Pump or squeeze the filter to force the water through the filtration media.
- Collect the filtered water in a clean container.
I’ve had a great experience with Lifestraw filter. I like both the LifeStraw Personal Water Filter and their 3L Gravity Filter depending on the trip. They are long-lasting, easy to use, and effective. An added benefit is that for every LifeStraw product purchased, a child receives clean water for 1 year through their Give Back Initiative where they distribute community purifiers to schools in need.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – It removes bacteria and protozoa – Some filters can also remove sediment and improve taste. – No chemical aftertaste – Reusable and long-lasting with proper maintenance. | – Filters can be bulky and add weight to your pack. – They may require regular cleaning and replacement of cartridges. – Not all filters are effective against viruses (Consider this when traveling internationally) |
4. Water Purifiers
Water purifiers are very similar to water filters, but they can remove viruses, and some can even remove heavy metals such as lead.
To use a water purifier, follow these steps (Be sure to follow any specific manufacturer instructions)
- Attach the purifier to a water bottle or reservoir.
- Submerge the filter in the water source.
- Pump or squeeze the filter to force the water through the filtration media.
- Collect the filtered water in a clean container.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – It removes bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. – Great international travel option when water may contain harmful pathogens – No chemical aftertaste – Reusable and long-lasting with proper maintenance. | – May take more time to purify than a normal filter – Filters can be bulky and add weight to your pack. – They may require regular cleaning and replacement of cartridges. – More expensive than non-purifying filters |
5. UV Treatment
UV (Ultraviolet) treatment is a relatively new method of water purification that uses UV light to destroy waterborne pathogens. UV purifiers are compact and lightweight, making them a popular choice among backpackers.
To use a UV purifier, follow these steps:
- Fill a water bottle or reservoir with water from a reliable source.
- Activate the UV purifier and immerse the UV lamp in the water.
- Stir the water to ensure proper exposure to UV light.
- Wait for the specified treatment time (usually around 60 seconds)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – It effectively destroys bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. – UV purifiers are compact and lightweight. – Does not leave any taste or odor in the water. | – Requires batteries or a power source for operation. – Not effective against sediment or chemical contaminants. – May not work well in turbid or cloudy water. – Only cleans one bottle of water at a time |
Conclusion
When backpacking, water purification is essential for your health and well-being. By using proper treatment methods, such as boiling, chemical disinfection, filtration, or UV treatment, you can minimize the risk of waterborne illnesses and make your trip a lot more enjoyable. Each method has its pros and cons, so choose the one that suits your budget, needs, and preferences.
Remember, staying hydrated with safe water is crucial for a successful and enjoyable backpacking trip!
