Recommended for Home Emergency Kit
Clean water is the first thing you run short of in an emergency, and tap water can't be relied on after flooding or a mains failure. A good filter lets you safely drink from streams, water butts or questionable taps.
Our picks below range from a pocket personal straw to a versatile squeeze system and an all-in-one filter bottle — so there's a sensible option whether you're building a grab bag or kitting out the whole household.
Portable water filtration for safe drinking water from any freshwater source. Removes 99.99% of bacteria and parasites.
Removes bacteria and protozoa. Look for NSF/ANSI certifications.
Higher flow rates mean less waiting. Look for at least 1 litre per minute.
Good filters last 1,000–4,000 litres before replacement.
For hiking kits, choose filters under 100g that pack flat.
Dirty water clogs filters fast. Use a bandana or cloth as a pre-filter.
Most portable filters don’t remove viruses. In developing countries, pair with purification tablets.
Ice crystals damage filter membranes. Sleep with your filter in your sleeping bag in winter.
A pocket-sized straw filter that lets you drink directly from streams, rivers and lakes. No batteries, no chemicals and no moving parts — one of the simplest ways to make untreated water safe when the tap stops running.
A versatile squeeze filter you can use with its pouches, a water bottle or inline on a hydration pack. A refillable workhorse for treating larger volumes than a personal straw.
An all-in-one filter bottle you fill from a tap, river or lake and drink straight from. The simplest option for everyday carry and travel.