Backpacking & Hiking Water Treatment
What You Need to Know Staying hydrated on the trail is essential, and so is making sure the water you drink is safe. Whether you're backpacking for several days or heading out on a local hike, the right water-treatment system can make all the difference.
Here’s a clear look at two of the most popular ultralight filters — the Sawyer Mini and Sawyer Squeeze — plus how they compare to full portable purifiers.
Why Treat Water in the Backcountry?
Natural water sources often appear clean, but can contain bacteria (E. coli), protozoa (Giardia, Cryptosporidium), and sediment. Depending on the region, there may also be viral contamination. Water treatment keeps you on the trail instead of dealing with stomach illness.
Sawyer Filters has two good options:
Sawyer Mini:
Price: ~$25–30
Weight: Ultralight
Pros: Very compact, budget-friendly
Cons: Slower flow rate, clogs more easily, requires more frequent back-flushing
Best For: Short hikes, ultralight setups, clean water sources
Sawyer's lightest and most versatile personal water filtration system, the conveniently compact, award-winning**, high-performance Sawyer MINI Water Filter is perfect for everything from camping with the kids to traveling abroad where tap and bottled water cannot be trusted.
The versatile MINI attaches to the included drinking pouch, standard disposable water bottles, and hydration packs — and you can drink directly from a water source with the included drinking straw.
Sawyer Squeeze:
Price: ~$50–65
Weight: Slightly heavier
Pros: Much faster flow, more durable, easier to squeeze water through, works great with gravity setups
Cons: Higher price, slightly larger
Best For: Multi-day backpacking, silty or variable water sources, groups, anyone who values speed and reliability
Whether hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, or traveling abroad, the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filtration System will ensure you have access to clean water in the backcountry or anywhere in the world.
Weighing just 3 ounces, the versatile, award-winning Sawyer Squeeze Filter is incredibly simple to use and fits in the palm of your hand. The two durable, collapsible 32-ounce reusable squeeze pouches roll up when empty, so they won't take up space in your pack or suitcase.
Maintenance Considerations. Both Sawyer filters require:
Regular back-flushing to restore flow
Protection from freezing
Pre-filtering silty water
Filters vs. Purifiers: What’s the Difference?
Filters: Remove bacteria, protozoa, sediment, microplastics. Do NOT reliably remove viruses or some chemical contaminants.
Purifiers: Remove or neutralize viruses, bacteria, protozoa; some also reduce chemicals and heavy metals. Ideal for international travel, downstream water sources, or questionable water quality.
Simple Recommendation Guide Choose the Sawyer Mini if:
You want the lightest, cheapest option
Your trips are short
Your water sources are clean Choose the Sawyer Squeeze if:
You want faster flow and less hassle
You're going out for multi-day trips
You expect silty or mixed conditions Choose a Portable Purifier if:
Traveling internationally
Camping near populated areas
Water quality is questionable
My preference for backpacking in Arizona is the Sawyer. I use the squeeze most of the time but also carry the mini as an extra. I’d typically fill a 2 gallon “dirty” water bladder from the water source and hang it in a tree with my sawyer squeeze clipped into the bottom of the dirty water bag. Then I connect a 1 liter smart water bottle to the bottom of the squeeze and let gravity pull the clean water through. Meanwhile I’d setup camp and prepare dinner.
I also have the Katadyn purifier and have used it on the trail but the sawyer works way better for me.
Katadyn Hiker Pro Hand Pump Water Filter
Price: ~$80-100
Weight: 11 ounces
Pros: Fast flow rate, up to 1 liter per minute
Cons: Higher price, slightly larger & heavier
Best For: Multi-day backpacking, silty or variable water sources, groups, anyone who values speed and reliability
Carrying gallons of water isn’t necessary when you have reliable water sources and are carrying the durable 11-oz Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter. A quick stop at a river or stream with the easy pump-action lets you continue on your trek with clear drinking water. The field-cleanable, Filter Protector Screen extends the life of the cartridge in challenging conditions. It connects directly to your hydration pack with 1/4” drink tubes and water bottles.
Have questions about these filters or other hiking gear? You can reach out to Bruce and get answers from real life experience.
