Q&A Why carry a water filter?

Recently a reader named Randy asked:

Q. What are the pros and cons of a water filtration system. I am thinking of purchasing one but it almost seems that I would be just hauling another piece of gear.

A. In my opinion a water filter is one of your most important pieces of gear you can carry. Without water, your pretty much screwed, and if you do find water without the proper filtration you still may be in trouble. There are some nasty diseases that you can get from drinking untreated water, some can actually kill you.

Pros & Cons of carrying a water filter in your BOB, or hiking backpack:

Pros:

• The ability to treat any water you find in the wilderness.
• Safety -  As I mentioned above, there are a lot of microorganisms in untreated water, most water filters will get rid of these germs.
• Faster than boiling water. If your on the go, a water filter is quicker and easier than having to stop, build a fire and boil water.
• Taste – A lot of people say that drinking filtered water tastes better than drinking boiled water.
• Boiling will do nothing to get rid of herbicides and pesticides, a good water filter can filter out hazardous chemicals.

Cons:

• If you plan on being out for an extended period of time, even the best filters will not last forever. A good canteen for boiling water will out last any filter.
• Boiling water is the safest way to get rid of unhealthful contaminants (except for chemicals), and is pretty much idiot proof. Filters, if not hooked up properly can fail to do the job.

Top Water Purifiers & Filters:

• SteriPEN Adventurer Handheld Water Purifier
• Katadyn Pocket Water Microfilter
• Katadyn TRK Drip Ceradyn Water Filter
• Lifesaver Bottle 4000 Ultra Filtration Water Bottle
• Katadyn Combi Water Microfilter