How to survive with camping water filters anywhere, anytime

Camping water filters are essential when the only source of water is completely exposed and out in the open.

A body of water outdoors is fertile ground for all sorts of bacteria and parasites, beware.

Effective camping water filters will save you from getting the runs!

Filtering water while out in nature is an essential element of your gear. Staying hydrated while you’re camping, hiking, backpacking, climbing or doing any kind of traveling in the wilderness should be a safety priority.

In order to drink clean water from natural sources you need adequate camping water filters. Not all water sources are safe.

Even though streams, rivers and lakes make a beautiful scenery to look at, they might not make a great source of drinking water. Just think about the wildlife that uses the water in many ways.

Also, rain will inevitably run-off to these bodies of water carrying fecal waste and other materials.

Man overlooking a lakeSerious hikers rely on a filtering mechanism to purify their water when taking it from the natural landscape.

Enjoy the scenery but filter your water

Water treatment in the outdoors is all about decontaminating water from bacteria and parasites while filtering particulates. It’s essential for gastrointestinal health and avoiding a bad case of diarrhea.

According to Peace Corps volunteers, water disinfection boils down to (pun intended):

  • boiling water for 2-3 minutes to kill pathogens. This means let the water reach a boil and keep the water rolling for 2-3 minutes.
  • filtering removes protozoa (cryptosporidium and Cyclospora) to kill bacteria and viruses.
  • further treatment might include adding chlorine or bleach (2-3 drops per liter and let it sit for 30 minutes).
Boiling water while campingNever underestimate the tried and true systems of survival. Always boil water when camping, it's the least you can do for your health.

Camping water filters to shield your health

Pathogens, such as Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and viruses, are often found in source water and can cause gastrointestinal illness. Illnesses include diarrhea, vomiting, cramps and other health risks.

In many cases, water needs to be disinfected to inactivate (or kill) these microbial pathogens.

However, portable water filters are great for all outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the types found in the market are:

  • Straw filters
  • Pump filters
  • Bottle filters
  • Gravity filters
  • UV filters

These are usually small and high-tech filters that will render water potable in cases where the water source might be compromised – just like from any water body out in nature.

Camping water filters should have these characteristics:

  • Lightweight
  • Compact construction
  • Filter capacity
  • Simple mechanism
  • Cost-effective

In short, a camping water filter is a must if you’re really serious about outdoor adventures. Don’t rely on any water bottle, you should think about being prepared in advance of the trip.

Also, by having a reliable method of purifying water you will be able to drink freely, not worrying that your water source will finish, because you can refill, purify and drink enough for best performance and protection.

Back home, you might not have thought about the water coming out of your shower.

Read about shower head water filters and learn what’s sticking to your skin and hair that you are not seeing.

Simplify your health routine by adding alkaline water to the mix right at home. By getting the right kind of filter, you can get alkaline water every day.

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Peace Corps Volunteers, www.peacecorpsguatemala.com

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