~*~ Water Purification
~*~
Treating
your water is an important aspect of backpacking. You do not want to run the
risk of becoming ill with Giardia while on the trail. It is not treatable with
normal antibiotics and can take a long time to get rid of, even with the proper
medication. I, for one, would rather enjoy the wilderness and spend time
treating my water rather than getting my money’s worth with the little orange
trowel. I have used only one filter in my life and will probably only replace
it when I absolutely have to. It’s either that or a chemical treatment,
depending on my trip.
Weight:
Review: This is the only water filter I have ever owned and unless it
completely dies on me, it is the only one I ever will own. PUR is now Katadyn,
but they are still making the same filter. If I ever hear they are going out of
business, I will buy another one and a bunch of extra filters just because. I
can’t say enough positive things about the Hiker Pro. It filters perfectly and
quickly. There have been numerous occasions where I have filtered water and
been packed up and ready to go while others are still struggling to get a liter
out. I change the filter when needed, which depends on how often I’m out
backpacking. Knock on wood, I have never gotten sick from any water I have
filtered with this little number.
Weight: 6 oz
Review: Depending on where I am backpacking, I will bring Aqua Mira
instead of my filter. It is much lighter and there is only a 5 minute wait
after treating it. Some people complain about the taste, but I have never
noticed it with the exception of once, and that was my fault. I accidentally
mixed the chemicals in the lid of my Platypus and some of it got into the
threads of the lid. When I went to take a sip, instant sour-puss face. I
usually “camel up” at stream crossings by drinking what ever happens to be left
in my water bottle before treating another liter. Unless the conditions are
incredibly dry, I only carry one liter at a time.
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