The 15 Best Water Filtration Systems

Whether you're hiking, camping, or traveling abroad, having access to clean drinking water is essential. With so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the right water filtration system for your needs. That's why we've tested and reviewed some of the best options available, including the Sawyer Squeeze, LifeStraw Personal Water Filter, and Platypus GravityWorks.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System

• Best for Backpacking: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

• Best Gravity Filter: Platypus GravityWorks Group Camping Water Filter System

• Best Bottle Filter: LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

• Best UV Purifier: SteriPen Adventurer Opti UV Personal Water Purifier

Detail Reviews Of Top 4 Best Water Filtration Systems

1. Best Overall: Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System

Specifications:

• Filter Capacity: Up to 100,000 gallons

• Filter Pore Size: 0.1 microns

• Weight: 3 ounces

Pros:

• High filtration capacity

• Lightweight and compact design

• Easy to use and maintain

Cons:

• May require frequent backflushing in murky water

• Requires some physical effort to squeeze water through the filter

Product Summary:

The Sawyer Products SP129 Squeeze Water Filtration System is the best overall water filtration system for camping and hiking. Its outstanding filtration capacity of up to 100,000 gallons and 0.1-micron pore size ensures the removal of harmful bacteria and protozoa. The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and its simple and efficient operation makes it suitable for all outdoor activities. With its excellent filtration performance, the Sawyer Products SP129 is a great investment for campers, hikers, and travelers alike.

2. Best for Backpacking: LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

Specifications:

• Filter Capacity: Up to 1,000 gallons

• Filter Pore Size: 0.2 microns

• Weight: 2 ounces

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact design

• No pumping or batteries required

• Filters out 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and protozoan parasites

Cons:

• Limited filtration capacity

• May require a strong suction force to get water through the filter

Product Summary:

The LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is the best water filtration system for backpacking. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry in your backpack, and its excellent filtration performance ensures that you have clean and safe drinking water on the go. With no pumping or batteries required, the LifeStraw is easy to use and maintain. Its high filtration rate and efficient removal of waterborne bacteria and protozoa make it a must-have for any backpacker.

3. Best Gravity Filter: Platypus GravityWorks Group Camping Water Filter System

Specifications:

• Filter Capacity: Up to 1,500 gallons

• Filter Pore Size: 0.2 microns

• Weight: 11.5 ounces

Pros:

• High filtration capacity

• Easy to use and maintain

• Filters water quickly and efficiently

Cons:

• Heavier than other filtration systems

• May require more effort to set up and operate

Product Summary:

The Platypus GravityWorks Group Camping Water Filter System is the best gravity filter for camping and group outings. Its high filtration capacity of up to 1,500 gallons ensures that you have access to clean and safe drinking water for extended periods. The system is easy to use and maintain, with its gravity-powered filtration system making it effortless to filter water. Although slightly heavier than other filtration systems, its high filtration rate and efficient removal of waterborne bacteria and protozoa make it a reliable and practical choice for camping and outdoor activities.

4. Best Bottle Filter: LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

Specifications:

• Filter Capacity: Up to 1,000 gallons

• Filter Pore Size: 0.2 microns

• Weight: 7.8 ounces

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable

• Durable and long-lasting

• Easy to use and maintain

Cons:

• Limited capacity compared to other filtration systems

• May require a strong suction force to get water through the filter

Product Summary:

The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is an excellent choice for hikers and campers who need a reliable, portable water filtration system. It is lightweight, easy to use, and can filter up to 1000 liters of water before needing a replacement filter. The bottle's built-in straw allows you to drink directly from any water source, and the filter removes 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria, including E. coli and salmonella. Compared to the previous version, this model features an improved lid and a larger capacity.

This product is suitable for anyone who spends time outdoors and needs access to clean drinking water without carrying extra gear. The LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is also a great choice for travelers visiting areas where tap water is not safe to drink.

FAQs

How does a water filtration system work?

A water filtration system removes impurities and contaminants from water by using different techniques such as activated carbon, sedimentation, distillation, and reverse osmosis. These techniques remove chlorine, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and heavy metals from the water, making it safe to drink.

What is the lifespan of a water filtration system?

The lifespan of a water filtration system depends on the type and brand of the system. Most filters need to be replaced every 6-12 months, while others require replacement after filtering a specific amount of water. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for replacement to ensure the system is working effectively.

Are water filtration systems easy to install and use?

Yes, most water filtration systems are easy to install and use. Some systems require professional installation, while others can be installed by following simple instructions. Once installed, most systems require minimal maintenance and are user-friendly.

Final Thought

Having access to clean and safe drinking water is essential for good health. The best water filtration systems help to remove impurities and contaminants from water, making it safe to drink. When choosing a water filtration system, it's important to consider the type and brand of the system, the lifespan of the filter, and ease of installation and use. With the right water filtration system, you can have peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are drinking clean and safe water.