Having access to clean drinking water is an important part of staying hydrated and healthy in the backcountry. Without it, a hiker would quickly succumb to dehydration, which can contribute to other medical problems. Whether out for a casual afternoon hike or multiple nights on the trail, being able to purify water is very important.
Using Filters for Purifying Water
Water filters are a common sight in the backcountry. They operate by dipping an intake tube into a stream or pond, and pushing the water through a filtration system using a hand pump. Fibers strain out dirt, impurities, and bacteria without leaving an aftertaste. Some systems use a pre-filter to strain out larger impurities, as well as a special attachment which allow the user to attach a water bottle directly to the outtake tube. Also, some bottles come with a filtration system built into the bottle, allowing for greater convenience.
Some backpackers may want to shed almost every pound as possible from their load, in which case other options are available.
Using Purification Tablets to Purify Water
Water purification tablets are small, convenient, and can purify water within about an hour. They are often made from iodine, and one tablet can usually purify one quart of water. However, once the seal on the bottle has been opened, the tablets have a limited shelf life. Check the instructions on the bottle for how long the tablets need to dissolve in order to be effective. Also, remember to rinse off the threads of the bottle to ensure the iodine cleans them.
Boiling to Purify Water
Boiling is another method to purify water. By bringing water to a rolling boil, all bacteria and viruses are killed by the heat. The disadvantage of boiling water is that it takes time and uses resources such as stove fuel, and unless the water is being drunk as a hot beverage it won’t really taste very good. In the winter months though, boiling water can be important for melting snow for drinking water while winter camping.
Planning Ahead for Purifying Water
Before going out hiking into the backcountry, plan ahead for finding different water sources. If planning to use a water source that is known for being murky, or that the trip will be very long, bring along a cleaning kit to scrape out dirt. If necessary, bring along a replacement filter. Also, carry a chemical backup, such as iodine tablets, in case the filter breaks.
By knowing how to use different water purification techniques and planning ahead before going on the trail, hikers can enjoy clean drinking water in the backcountry.
Bill Sassani - Bill Sassani is an outdoor enthusiast, educator, and writer with over 15 years' experience.
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