Are you up for an excursion or any outdoor venture? You may have noted all the essentials for your trip. But, one thing that people should have considered in the list is water supply. Yes, you may take a few bottles for the journey. But, there is enough possibility that you may run out of water in harsh conditions. The best portable water filters can save your day. There are chances to find natural water sources. But, it is equally essential to purify the water before drinking.
These filters are lightweight and can be used for people with outdoor sweat. Yes, whether you are a camper or a hiker, mark this on a high note. It is also the most common army tool in any mission. Portable water filters use different techniques to purify water. These include heat, UV, activated charcoal, and many more. Remember- that they are lightweight and self-contained. Let’s dive deep to learn more about portable water filters.
Top 7 Best Portable Water Filters
- LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
- Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System
- Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System
- Survivor Portable Water Filter
- Brita Water Bottle Filter Replacements – BPA Free
- Katadyn Vario Water Filter
- MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter Water Filter
1. LifeStraw Personal Water Filter
The best and award-winning portable water filter in the industry. Yes, military personnel to hiking, camping, or any traveler need it in all emergencies. The unit with disaster management sounds complete. You can use it as the perfect alternative to iodine tablets and bulky purifiers.
Lifestraw portable water filters are light and portable. Also, it is a unit with a high flow rate to drink from any source. It can purify up to 1,000 gallons (4,000 liters) of contaminated water. That, too, is without chlorine, iodine, or other chemicals. This filter can filter up to 0.2 microns. Something that passes EPA filter standards too. That is just remarkable!!!
Anything more? This filter can remove 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria and 99.9% of protozoan parasites. The best feature of all is that it does not require batteries. Also, it has no moving parts. It is constructed with BPA -free material and comes with a sealed bag. The 9x1x1 inches gadget is just perfect for storing in a bug-out bag. Lastly, this 15 dollars unit has a long lifespan to use.
Pros:
- Removes microplastics
- No expiration date.
- It can filter up to 4000 liters of contaminated water.
- Portable and high flow rate.
Cons:
- It needs a bit of suction to get water flowing.
2. Sawyer Products MINI Water Filtration System
Are you looking for a high-performance water filtration system? If yes, then count this unit big. This portable gadget has a 0.1-micron absolute inline filter. So, it can eliminate 99.9999% of bacteria and protozoa. Also, it works effectively to remove 100% microplastics.
This unit is so lightweight; It is just in size to fit your palm. Cutting deep into its quality- it has been tested three times. Not only that, but also it has a filter rate of 100 thousand gallons. That is damn high than others.
This unit also offers a 16-ounce reusable squeeze pouch. And it has 7 inches drinking straw and a cleaning plunger. Guess what? It has hydration packs, too, for an easy drinking option. The 23 dollars unit is perfect for hiking, camping, or outdoor recreation.
Pros:
- 0.1 absolute micron filtering.
- Fiber Protection.
- Three times tested.
- Filter rated up to 100,000 gallons.
Cons:
- It needs frequent backflushing.
3. Frizzlife Under Sink Water Filter System
Are you searching for a portable filter that is precious and effective? If so, then take this unit on a good note. It is a two-stage advanced cleaner that can remove 99.99% of contaminants. Also, this filter prevents essential mineral loss from water. It is also unique as it can filter 99.99% of lead.
What if I tell you that this unit is a great money saver? Yes, unlike others, it has filter cartridges inside a plastic container. So, you don’t have to change the whole plastic but only the cartridges. Other than that, it is easy to install. You can install the unit in less than 3 minutes.
Cutting deep- you can direct connect to under sink water filtration system. The filter also features a high flow rate. That is more than 2 gallons per minute as 40psig. It is also a unit with auto shut-off features. You don’t need to shut off the water supply while replacing filters.
This filter is also unique as it offers multi-usage. You can use it with a refrigerator, under the sink, ice maker, or in bathrooms: no bad odors. Lastly, it has quality cartridges that can purify up to 1600 gallons. You may only need to change it every six months.
Pros:
- 2-stage filtration.
- Money-saver.
- Auto-shutoff design.
- High flow rate.
Cons:
- It is expensive.
4. Survivor Filter PRO Portable Water Filter
The unit is just ideal for any outdoor or emergency uses. It is a filter that can purify 1500 liters of water from natural sources. The filter is also TüV SüD Examination Institute tested for safety measures. Also, it meets EPA water quality standards.
The lightweight gadget is also affordable- just under 18 dollars. This can also purify water at a higher rate of 400ml/min. Etekcity is also unique for its advanced filtration design. Yes, it has a pre-filter for large-size contaminants. It also has ion-exchange resins to eliminate heavy metal ions, chlorine, and THMs.
This filter is also excellent in removing pathogens. It has 0. 01Μm hollow fiber UF inline membrane. It can eliminate 99.9999% of waterborne bacteria. Besides, its activated carbon works to eliminate odors.
To add more goods- it is also special for dependable accessories. Yes, it has a foldable water pouch with D type hook. Also, it offers an extension tube, a syringe, an inlet mouthpiece, and an additional four PP cotton pads. It is the perfect package for scouting, camping, or any outdoor venture.
Pros:
- Advanced filtration design.
- Safety tested.
- Dependable accessories.
- High filtration capacities.
Cons:
- It needs more suction to get water out.
5. Brita Water Bottle Filter Replacements – BPA Free
What if there is an easy filter replacement without any pre-soaking? Yes, filter water in minutes to enjoy the great taste of it. These filter replacements have four sizes for Brita hard-sided and soft-sided bottles. You need to replace it every 40 gallons or two months.
These filters are so light that they weigh less than a pound. Also, it is BPA-free to reduce the chlorine taste in water. Using these filters eliminates bad odor, though. How effective is the filter? It can replace nearly 300 standard 16.9 ounces of water bottles to keep you hydrated. So, it saves a lot of money and no big burden of plastic waste.
Pros:
- Easy installation.
- Reduces waste.
- BPA-free filter.
Cons:
- Some complain that it does not fit well.
6. Katadyn Vario Water Filter
Let’s talk about a water filter that is efficient and simple to work. Yes, Katadyn Vario’s multi-flow water microfilter has three-level filters. That includes a high-performance glass fiber, ceramic pre-filter, and active charcoal. Its activated carbon removes chemicals and eliminates odor.
It is also a unit with a dual pumping mode for efficient filtration. It can generate two quarts per minute in faster flow. And, in the case of long-life mode, it produces more than 2 quarts per minute. That’s not all! It has a replaceable carbon core. That keeps water fresh in every taste.
Things do not end here! It has a 0.2-micron filter to remove waterborne bacteria. In addition, its dual-piston technology gives more output with low effort. Unlike others, it has an adapter base. What’s that? Something which can attach to a water bottle or any large container in a quick time. Just the perfect package for any outdoor venture.
Pros:
- Dual pumping modes.
- Dual-piston brings maximum output with minimum effort.
- Adaptor base to join bottle or container.
- Replaceable carbon core.
Cons:
- Chances of air-locked at times.
7. MSR MiniWorks EX Microfilter Water Filter
This one is for you if you are searching for something quick and easy. Yes, this filter has a pump rate of one liter per minute. That is just incredible. It is also compatible with a hydration bladder and wide-mouth bottles.
This portable filter also features removable carbon and ceramic filters. That eliminates protozoa, bacteria, organic compounds, and solid particulates. So, the water produced is clean and odor-free. No change of taste as well.
This unit is unique as it meets NSF protocol P231 for removing bacteria and protozoa. Yes, it can eliminate up to 99.9999% of microbes. Besides that, it has one replaceable filter cartridge that can quickly treat 2000 liters of water.
This filter is only one pound and comes with a storage bag. About the pump- it measures 7.5×2.75 inches. Well, this made-in-the-USA product is a bit expensive. But, the 90 dollars is worth counting when it offers a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Meets NSF protocol P231 for bacteria and protozoa removal.
- Replaceable carbon and ceramic filter.
- Pumps one liter per minute.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- The unit is expensive.
Essential Things to Consider Before Buying a Portable Water Filter
Portable water filters are relatively inexpensive. Yet, there are some beyond the limit of the average. They all work well to purify water. Then, how to choose one? It would be helpful to find the best portable water filter.
i. Filtration Speed
Different filters remove contaminants at different rates. The question is how quickly I can purify my water. Well, some filters can purify a liter per minute with ease. But, most of them range near about 400 ml/min. So, I look at its review if you need a filter with quick action.
ii. Filter Capacity
Filter capacity is different among portable filters. It all depends on the cartridges. Some last only for a few weeks, while others run longer. Most of them are replaceable and easy to operate. How much can they purify? There are cartridges with only 264 gallons to some high-quality pieces over a hundred thousand gallons.
iii. Weight
How heavy are these water filters? Most of them are so lightweight that in only a pound or so. It is carried to every destination. Besides, their filter is more compact and small. And the filter weight varies depending on its design and technology.
iv. Easy Operation
Portable water filters are for outdoor ventures. So, make sure it is easy with the operation. Some of these filters has detailed instruction for installation. On the other hand, you will find models just like straw. Sip in for the fresh and pure water.
v. Customer Review
This is important to understand the quality while you are buying it online. Scroll through a few comments. Yes, there will be mixed opinions. Read some negative comments along with the positive ones. That gives you some insights into its possible drawbacks.
Water Filters Vs. Water Purifiers
Many of us need clarification on water filters and water purifiers. Are they all the same? Not really! They have differences to count.
Water filters are designed to remove waterborne dirt and chemicals. They use porous filters like activated charcoal to remove dirt from water. Besides heavy metals, they remove waterborne bacteria and protozoa to 99.999%.
On the other hand, water purifier uses purification technology like reverse osmosis, distillation, and deionization. They can combat three different classes of microbes, including viruses. Not to mention, viruses are too small to capture with a water filter. So, the cleaner uses higher technology to free your water from microbes.
Nowadays, you will find conjugation of both filters and purifiers in one machine.
Benefits of Water Filters
Portable water filters are beneficial in big terms. Before buying a portable water pot, you should know its benefits. One needs benefits to spend money. Some significant benefits are-
- It is easy to use.
- The unit is cost-effective.
- The gadget is lightweight and easy to portable.
- It removes harmful toxins and heavy metals from water.
- No change in the water taste.
- Quick filtration rate.
- BPA-free pure water.
- Microfiltration membrane.
- No bad odors.
- Environment-friendly option.
- It is easy to store.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know a portable water filter needs a replacement?
Ans: You will find a drop in the flow rate. That means it is clogged with debris like mineral ions and dead bacteria. You can also track its filtration record, like how many gallons it filters. Change the filter within 10% of its end life.
Q: What is potable water?
Ans: Potable water is more commonly known as drinking water. It must be safe to consume. Other factors, like taste or smell, may need to meet the desired criteria. Potable water can be used for cooking as well.
Q: Should I wash my portable Water Filter?
Ans: You must wash the portable filter after every use. If you are damn careless about cleaning, the debris filters can create a problem. That is bad taste and bad odors in water.
Q: Can portable water filters purify snow?
Ans: Snow could have insoluble dirt locked into crystals. If you think this snow is fresh and white, try it with this filter. Ensure you add some temperature to melt the snow and make it passable through the filter.
Q: Can it purify Urine to make it drinkable in the worst situation?
Ans: Well, it can purify Urine to some extent, but it still determines whether it can be drinkable. Firstly, Urine has a bad smell. Secondly, it has psychological issues. Urine passes metabolic wastes too. So, there is a question of how much it can purify to make it safe.
Final Verdict
Portable water filters are simple to use. It is the best essential for any outdoor excursion. Life without water can be fatal for you. Getting fresh water all the time is a big challenge. Take the lightweight to march destinations with pride. In a nutshell, an item that fills the most basic need for people. Count it; Count it big!!!
