Buying guide of water filter portable

The purpose of the water filter is to make water drinkable. During a nomadic activity, it allows you to avoid cluttering up with liters on your back. If they all have the same purpose, their characteristics are different. Here are the comparisons you should look at when choosing your water filter

Technologie

There are several, among the best known, hollow fiber and ceramic. The first is compact and light but is not used in turbid water. The second is quite fragile but very effective in muddy and loamy conditions.

Many filters also have an activated carbon capsule. In addition to removing chemicals, it has the usefulness of reducing bad tastes.

Performances in microns

The same technology can have different performances in micron, in particular hollow fibers. The higher the volume of the latter, the better the micron performance. In other words, the water will be better filtered. Thus, 0.2 micron hollow fiber models are effective against bacteria and protozoa while others of 0.02 microns also eliminate viruses.

Here is the size of the pathogens

- from 1 to 15 microns: Amoebic dysentery, giardia, lamblias, cryptosporidium, etc.

-from 0.2 to 5 microns: E-coli, salmonella, cholera, etc.

- from 0.02 to 0.2 microns: Hepatitis A, Norwalk virus, rotavirus, poliovirus, etc.

Throughput

You should know that a water filter has a lifespan and a filtration capacity. Some are able to filter more than 2 liters per minute while others do not exceed 0.5 liters. In addition, after a while, a filter wears out. It is possible to replace it on many models. On others, you have to buy a new filter. Easy information but to know.

Weight and Size

During any outdoor outing, weight and space are essential criteria. The water filter is no exception to the rule. So to go headlong on the most efficient model, make sure it is light enough for your type of activity.

You now know the essential characteristics for choosing your water filter. Discover now the types of filters available on the market:

The filter gourd: also inhale to hydrate yourself

Advantages: it brings you unequaled comfort. All you have to do is fill your water bottle and drink as you go. No need to decant or duck into the river to drink.

Disadvantages: we find the same disadvantages as straw, in addition to the fact that it is less versatile.

The pump filter: pump to filter

Advantages: effective in the most turbid waters. Some models even eliminate viruses. Not drinking directly from the filter also makes it more suitable for groups.

Disadvantages: this type of filter is bulkier and less light than straw or gourd type microfilters. In addition, this requires another container to pour the drinking water inside.

Gravity water filter

Pros: All you have to do is fill a tank and wait for the water to filter on its own. It does not require any effort and the tanks are generally of a large capacity (between 6 and 12 liters). It is therefore ideal for a group.

Disadvantages: it is bulky, heavier and the flow rate is generally slow, making this type of filter unsuitable for roaming.

Chemical water filters: a good complement

Advantages: in tablet, powder or liquid form, it takes up little space and is light. In safe areas, it can even replace a filter. If in doubt, this is a reliable way to make water safe to drink.

Cons: It doesn't work in turbid water.

You have the cards in hand to choose the water filter that suits you

best. Finally, here is the best type of filter depending on your

activity.

→ Trek (GR20, Chemin de Stevenson…): filtering straw and gourd

→ Van life, motorhome: gravity filter

→ Travel, tourism: filter gourd

→ Bushcraft, survival: pump filter