Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2025
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 are myriad water filtration and purification systems built specifically for backpacking (many options on this list are great for day hiking, trail running, and travel, too). We've been testing water filters on backcountry adventures near and far since 2018, and our 19 current favorites below include everything from ultralight squeeze filters and chemical drops to pumps and large-quantity gravity filters. For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks, along with details about our testing process.
Continue reading to learn more about the best water filters, written by Maddie Downie.
May 29, 2025
Jenny Abegg and Maddie Downie
Jenny Abegg
Expertise & Background
Topics of Expertise: Climbing, mountaineering, trail running, hiking and backpacking, backcountry skiing
Education: Masters in Education
Years of Writing: 9
Years of Gear Testing: 9
Certifications: PCGI certified Lead Guide
Club or Association Memberships: American Alpine Club, Access Fund, Austrian Alpine Club
Previous Publications: Climbing Magazine, Alpinist, Sidetracked, Adventure Journal, REI Co-op Journal
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Medya Mansyone
When I’m going to be walking in tall grass and weeds, I wear my snake boots which I’ve sprayed with Sawyer’s permethrin. Read more at: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/article308242365.html#storylink=cpy
Medya Mansyone
Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent: Top-pick bug repellent
Medya Mansyone
Water purification technology has reached new heights with the Sawyer Squeeze System, delivering 0.1-micron absolute filtration that removes 99.9% of harmful bacteria, protozoa, and cysts.
Soti nan eskwadwon an
Konvèsasyon Kanfi ak kominote nou an, ki soti nan Manm Eskwadwon ak Anbasadè yo nan Brand Patnè ak ekip la Sawyer.
