water filtration questions

I'm curious about a good filter system that is compact enough to fit in my Remix and as easy on the wallet as clean water can be. I haven't done my own research yet, but what about boiling water for the proper amount of time...does that make it safe (even though it might be silty and taste bad)?

I'm just becoming interested in doing some self-supported multi-day trips and the thought of carrying that much water is a little daunting...

I have both of these: http://www.filtersfast.com/Katadyn-ExStream-water-filters.asp
http://cascadedesigns.com/platypus/filtration-and-storage/gravityworks-filter/product

The bottle filter is great for day trips as well as multi-day trips with a group. On the Platypus gravity filter, I removed the "clean" reservior and added a Camelbak quick disconnect that snaps into my Camelbak's drinking tube. The Platypus uses membrane technology. Rebecca tells me that it's state of the art. If you're filtering turbid water (like glacial melt or a muddy river), run it through a coffee filter first. MSR uses the same membrane cartridge with different bladders if you want to check them out. They also make a hand pump version.

i think you can also buy little tablets at rei that will purify it (this is a ver compact and cheap option)

I think this makes more sense . . .
http://cascadedesigns.com/platypus/wine-preservation/platypreserve/product

Thanks once again for the great info Curtis

I appreciate the input a lot.

I have a little MSR Hyperflow... COMPACT, lightweight, FAST filtration, and it even hooks directly to your camelbak.

here:

http://www.bing.com/shopping/msr-hyperflow-water-filter/p/1127B6EBD5F0AFC65006?q=msr+water+pump&lpq=msr%20water%20pump&FORM=HURE

Mine is now 2 years old. Used lots. Just disassemble and allow to air dry (after you scrub the filter a tad in the sink) and it's ready for the next trip.

ROckin.

It even fits in the boat if you use one of the spare bottle-holder loops or just biner it down. I carried a liquidlogic 16 oz. bottle for a dual-run down the Nantahala in 90 degree weather with a dry top along with this filter. I bet I consumed 7 liters of water that day straight from the river.

I made a gravity filter before they came out with the one Curtis mentioned. Here's a link to the filter.
http://store.seychelle.com/Replacement_Filters-Replacement_Filter_for_Water_Bag_Advanced.html

You can then customize to your situation, as far as reservoir size, etc..... I add an MSR siltstopper to it in silty water. But I made the mistake of forgetting extra siltstopper filters when I was on the boundary waters for a week. I was filtering through a towel and boiling halfway through the trip.

Here's a Youtube link for a homemade gravity filter using an Aquamira Frontier Pro Filter. I believe it has a built-in replaceable pre-filter. I like this set up for backpacking because of it versatility in camp or on the go.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wSYWoplv_Uo

Dean

That's all you need to know. Used one in lotso states, and many 3rd world countries w/o illness or disease. Has a stopper that fit's all Nalgene bottles. Glass tube filtration, with no funny taste. The PUR (Katadyn) Guide model rules. Ain't cheap. FC


OOooops ! They quit making it... I can still get replacement filters. FC

I use a first need for back packing. it does good little expensive but is epa approved.

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___81249