Best default filter

Sawyer Squeeze

Sawyer · Budget · Light

The hollow-fiber filter most backpackers should own first.

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Squeeze it from a dirty bag into a clean bottle. Backflush it. Do not let it freeze. It does not handle viruses, so it is the wrong only-tool for some international travel. In typical North American mountain water it is the default for a reason: light, cheap, and field-proven if you maintain it.

Who should buy it. Backpackers filtering lakes and streams at home.

Best for. Everyday backcountry bacteria and protozoa

Standout limitation. Does not remove viruses. Clogs in silt. Can freeze.

Specs

Type

Hollow fiber

Removes

Bacteria and protozoa

Does not

Viruses

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