How to Buy a Travel Water Purifier

Anyone who has traveled probably knows how gastrointestinal illness can ruin your trip. Most countries now have safe drinking water, but even potable water can contain bacteria that is unfamiliar to your body, which can cause diarrhea. There are many types of purifiers on the market and choosing the right one for your trip is important.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose your model in relation to your travel needs. If you are backpacking through Europe and want to safeguard the tap water, you are safe with a small, portable UV or bottletop filter. However, if you plan on hiking or camping in the wilderness, you are better off purchasing a purifier designed for back country water sources. These filters generally have more parts, and you will need to change the filter more often, but you can be sure about the cleanliness of your water.

2. Research purifiers well before buying, either online or in a store. Only purchase models with tested disinfectant capabilities. These purifiers may be more expensive, but they have an established track record. It is worth spending the extra money to protect your health while on the go.

3. Shop for your travel water purifier in travel and camping stores. The advantage of purchasing in a local store is the ability to read the package thoroughly, to see and feel the purifier and to speak to an actual person about the product. This is also a great way to do your research, before looking for deals online.

4. Purchase your travel water purifier online. There is an infinite array of choices on the Internet and shopping online is also a great way to find consumer reviews and descriptions of each purifier.

Tips & Warnings

• Many water purifiers require batteries. Consider this option thouroughly, as batteries can be very expensive while traveling. If you do decide on a battery powered water purifier, consider rechargeable batteries.
• Water purifiers that use ultraviolet light destroy waterborne microbes, however do not filter chemicals. Always check the label of the purifier to verify exactly what it filters. A good filter will remove chemicals in addition to harmful microbes.
• If your travel water purifier includes iodine as part of the purification process, a neutralizer liquid is available that removes the taste and color of the iodine.
• Don't rely on bottled water while in a foreign country, as there is no way to guarantee its purity.
• Be aware of the life span of the filter, and carry replacements with you.

Resources

• Pure Water for Less.
• The Best Water Filters.