Water Bottles, Our Best Backpacking Water Purifier
Whether you are planning a trek, taking part in a sports event, or are going on a picnic, a water bottle is an essential piece of kit! They will not only keep your hydrated, they can double up as storage space if empty and in an emergency situation, can be used to capture rainwater for later consumption. Due to rising concerns about single use plastic in the environment, many hikers and athletes choose multiple use containers, which, although are initially slightly pricier than single use, they are sturdier, can often hold more liquid and are built with additional features and designs.
Many different options are available, all with their own unique benefits depending on what you intend to use them for. Here are some of the best backpacking water purifier most common designs you will find-
Plastic-
multiple use plastic bottles are the most common type of bottle used. They offer advantages such as being cheaper, lightweight, durable, dishwasher safe and have the largest array of specialised designs. Many jogger and runners use handheld ones, that are specifically shaped to fit comfortably in to their clenched hand whilst they run- which is very convenient! Other examples include bottles with straps that can be attached to belts or strapped across the hand. Some also have wider opening which provides an easy and quick refilling option.
Metal-
often constructed of aluminium or stainless steel, metal water holders are growing in popularity. This is due to their sturdiness and ability to hold hot liquids and soups, which is very useful if it is a snowy day and you need a warm drink on your commute! However, be aware that the ability to hold hot liquids only technically applies to the stainless steel version, which is constructed with double walled stainless steel; this also provides this bottle with the ability to keep cold liquids cool and hot liquids hot. As the bottle has two walls of stainless steel, this version is a bit more expensive that a single walled stainless steel bottle. The aluminium version of the bottle retains minimal odour and taste transfer but it is not recommended for use with acidic drinks, such as orange juice, as acidic drinks may cause aluminium to leach in to the contents of the bottle.
Glass-
a key benefit of using a glass bottle is that every version available has minimal taste and odour transfer. They are easy to clean and are more environmentally friendly as they are completely recyclable. The downside though (you guessed it!) is that, even though they are durable, they are easier to damage and break than any other multiple use bottle. They are also not ideal for overly cold or hot liquids, as they can form micro cracks in the glass. Many you purchase come with a protective silicone sleeve but as some don’t, you would have to purchase one separately, adding to the overall cost.
Filter-
though they may be pricy, a filtration bottle is an amazing innovation and can be life saving! The most common two available are carbon filtration and UV filtration. UV filtration is simple, as UV light is effective against any water borne pathogen. This bottle is useful for anyone travelling to an area where water quality is poor. Carbon filtration will remove some organic compounds from the water but cannot remove metals or nitrates. Also, carbon filters have to be changed regularly to assure their effectiveness.
‘Platypus’ bags-
a soft, compact, reusable bag, the ‘platypus’ bag can be folded and placed in a rucksack or clipped on to a belt. They are designed to withstand harsh environments and are also sturdy. They also offer low taste and odour transfer.
Hydration bladders-
Similar to the platypus bag, hydration bladders are flexible, often large volume bags carried in a backpack. Using one is similar to drinking with a straw and allows the user the ability to keep moving without having to stop their activity. Very convenient!
