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Two inexpensive filters in common use:

LifeStraw: https://www.lifestraw.com/products/lifestraw
Sawyer Mini Filter: https://sawyer.com/products/mini-filter/


Convenience of the LifeStraw and its obvious functionality as a "straw" concept is well known. This is where the LifeStraw has a strong following with a stated 1,000 gallon lifespan while the Sawyer Mini Filter has garnered a lot of use among "through hikers" with many of the same functional advantages of the LifeStraw, and more. The Sawyer Mini is rated at 100,000 gallons and includes a "backwashing" method that helps to restore filter flow and functionality of the filter. LifeStraw claims .2 micron while the Sawyer product spouts .1 micron. Comparable in price the Sawyer being a little more expensive (within $5-10 of one another).

Having owned both I find the LifeStraw a great, no frills filter for easy carry and a great gift for people who could use something that is compact and only minimally less expensive than the Mini Filter. However, the Mini Filter, edges out the LifeStraw as a more versatile and functional option. It can be used as a straw with the straw fitting pushed onto the inlet spout. It can be screwed onto empty or discarded soda/water bottles or put "inline" in a hydration system (see the website). The Mini Filter edges out the LifeStaw with respect to features but both are great, inexpensive options for your camping, hiking, go-bag or emergency kit needs.

The benefits of weaning yourself of carrying all your water in; WEIGHT! I usually hit the trail with approximately one gallon of water anytime I go out for a walk. If it is a long walk or a short walk, this is the SOP. However, as I have gotten older and my sensitivity to carrying unnecessary weight, there is a happy middle ground between carrying all the water I need for the outing without subjecting myself to foreign water sources and reducing the load and relying on a mixture of carried in water with supplemental filtered natural water sources. I am very careful and recommend everyone research and come up with a system that works for you, the individual, matched to the circumstance you are facing where a filter is desired.

Understanding the different heat/hydration injuries you may experience; a graphic from the CDC:

What filtration level do you need?

From http://www.portablewaterfilters.org/wat ... t-microns/