Gear Heads - Water Filter

An absolute must on any trek is a reliable, safe water source. On some treks, you do not have to worry, but in most areas drinking untreated water runs the risk of many diseases. Make sure the filter you choose can cleanse the water of bacteria and protozoa including giardia and cryptosporidia, viruses, as well as chemicals and industrial pollutants. While you could treat water with Iodine, the taste and side effects are usually not desirable. Another reason to skip Iodine is that it will not remove pollutants. Instead, we almost always carry a filter and begin each day with the ritual of pumping water into our water bottles that we know is safe to drink. Be aware that filters need to be changed or cleaned periodically. Read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it works properly.

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