The original praise for PUR's role in making outdoor travel easier still applies in principle, but the market and best practices have evolved. Today, most backpackers use purpose-built hollow-fiber, pump, UV or chemical treatments depending on expected hazards. Mechanical filters commonly protect against bacteria and protozoa; viruses require UV, chemicals, or specific certified systems. Check manufacturer claims, carry a backup, and follow maintenance and boiling guidance.

Portable water treatment vs. home filters

PUR built its reputation on household filtration - faucet and pitcher systems that reduce chlorine, lead and some particulates. For backpacking and extended travel, most outdoor enthusiasts now choose purpose-built portable filters that are lighter, faster and certified for microbiological threats.

What the original article got right

The core idea still holds: carrying a reliable purifier changes what you can safely drink in the outdoors. A lightweight filter makes resupply easier, reduces weight from carrying large volumes of water, and removes many common pathogens found in streams and lakes.

Two broad filter categories to consider

Think in terms of what a device removes, not just size. Many compact filters remove protozoa (Giardia, Cryptosporidium) and bacteria (E. coli, Salmonella). These are commonly sufficient for clean-looking water in the U.S. and Canada.

For regions where viral contamination is a concern - some parts of Asia, Africa, and South America - you need a method rated for viruses as well. Options include chemical disinfectants (iodine or chlorine dioxide), UV devices (e.g., SteriPEN), or filter systems specifically certified to remove viruses. Ultraviolet and chemical treatments add small weight and are commonly paired with mechanical filters. See specific product claims and certifications before travel. 1

Common modern portable brands and approaches

Backpackers in 2025 most often reach for ultralight hollow-fiber filters (Sawyer Squeeze, LifeStraw Flex, Katadyn BeFree), pump filters (MSR Guardian, Katadyn Hiker Pro), chemical treatment, or UV pens. Each has trade-offs: hollow-fiber filters are light and fast but may require backflushing; pumps handle silty water better but weigh more; UV treats viruses and protozoa quickly but needs batteries. These are practical alternatives to household PUR systems when you're off-trail.

Choosing the right device

  • Identify likely hazards: bacteria/protozoa, viruses, turbidity.
  • Match device capabilities: mechanical filters typically block bacteria and protozoa; UV and chemicals handle viruses.
  • Check certifications and removal claims on the manufacturer's label.
  • Consider maintenance: cartridge life, backflush ability, and spare parts.

Practical tips

Boil water when in doubt (bring to a rolling boil for 1 minute; at high altitudes follow local guidance). Carry a simple backup method - tablets, a UV pen, or a small filter - if your primary fails. Replace cartridges and clean filters per the manufacturer's instructions to maintain flow rate and safety.

Bottom line

A portable purifier does make backpacking safer and more flexible, but modern outdoor users often pair mechanical filters with a virus-capable method when traveling internationally. PUR remains a strong home-filtration brand, but for remote travel choose devices designed and certified for field use. 2

  1. Confirm current PUR product lineup and whether PUR markets any portable/backpacking-specific filters in 2025.
  2. Verify manufacturer claims and certifications regarding virus removal for commonly recommended portable systems.
  3. Confirm latest public guidance for boiling times at altitude (CDC or WHO recommendations).

FAQs about Pur Water Purifier

Is a PUR pitcher or faucet filter enough for backpacking?
No. PUR home filters are designed for household tap water contaminants. For backpacking you need lightweight, field-ready devices designed to remove microbes and withstand rough conditions.
Do all portable filters remove viruses?
No. Most mechanical filters remove bacteria and protozoa but not viruses. For viral protection use chemical disinfectants, UV devices, or systems explicitly certified for virus removal.
What is a good backup if my filter fails?
Carry chemical treatment tablets or a small UV pen as a lightweight backup. Boiling water is also reliable when fuel is available (bring to a rolling boil for 1 minute; follow local guidance at high altitude).
How do I maintain a portable filter?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions: backflush hollow-fiber filters, replace cartridges when flow slows, and keep pump seals and hoses clean. Regular maintenance preserves effectiveness and flow rate.