There are essentially three different ways in which to purify your water while o­n the trail. These being, boiling, chemical disinfectants and water filters.

Probably the most effective way to purify your water is by boiling. The rule used to be that you should boil the water 3-5 minutes, now we know that merely bringing it to a boil is enough to kill whatever cooties might inhabit it. This can be a lengthy process however.

Another, more simple option are the use of chemical tablets such as iodine and chlorine. While quick and easy, these can leave your water tasting less than pleasant. Adding a powdered drink mix can help, but even then, it's often a nose pinching process to get it down. (Perhaps this is just a particularly scarring childhood memory for me.)

Water filters seem to be the most popular method as the flavor is maintained and some say actually improved by the use of a filter. (How do you improve o­n fresh from the earth?) There are many different brands and types of these so further research is necessary in order to choose the type most effective for your personal use.

Take it from this o­ne time victim of Giardia, whatever method you use is well worth the effort!

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