
Keep in mind that you can also save a little with the GravityWorks Bottle Kit, a 2-liter system that filters water directly into your bottle or reservoir ($116, 9.1 oz.).

But we love the convenience, especially for groups of backpackers or basecamp-type situations, and feel it’s worth the cost and bulk then. And at $135, the GravityWorks is on the more expensive end of the water filtration spectrum. Furthermore, water retrieval can be a pain if you don’t have a reasonably deep or moving water source (similar to any system that relies on a bag to collect water). This filter is great for large groups, but we’ve enjoyed it on smaller outings too when we could quickly retrieve our day’s water and escape back to our camp to fill individual bottles (the clean bag also functions as water storage).īut compared to some of the more minimalist options below, the Platypus GravityWorks is not a small apparatus, with two bags, a filter, and a bundle of tubing. Gravity does all the work: simply fill up the 4-liter “dirty” reservoir, hang it from a tree branch or boulder, and in just a few minutes you’ll have four liters of clean water to drink.

Instead of pumping, this system requires minimal effort, can filter up to four liters of water at once, and boasts a speedy flow rate of 1.75 liters per minute. Without a doubt, the Platypus GravityWorks is one of the most convenient water filters on the market, and it’s become a backpacking staple. What we don’t: Bulky you need a decent water source to fill the bag. What we like: Filters and stores a high quantity of water effortlessly and quickly great for groups. Best Inline Filter for a Hydration Reservoir: MSR Thru-Link Inline Water Filterīest Gravity Water Filter for Groups 1.Best Chemical Water Treatment for Backpacking: Katadyn Micropur MP1.Best Premium Water Filter/Purifier: MSR Guardian Purifier System.Best Bottle Filter for Trail Running: Katadyn BeFree Collapsible Bottle 1L.

Best Ultralight Filter for Solo Backpackers: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter.Best Gravity Filter for Groups: Platypus GravityWorks 4L.Our Team's Backpacking Water Filter Picks For more background information, see our backpacking water filter comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Our picks for the top backpacking water filters of 2023 include everything from ultralight bottle filters and chemical drops to pumps and large-quantity gravity filters. To protect against protozoa, bacteria, and even viruses, there is a wide range of water filtration and purification systems built specifically for backpacking (many options on this list are great for day hiking, trail running, and travel too). Everyone exploring the backcountry needs water, but staying hydrated is not as simple as drinking straight from streams and lakes.
