Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Water is the building block of life, and if you go camping or backpacking in the wilderness for any length of time, you need to know how to purify water. With increased deforestation and use of the wilderness, the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 90 percent of water found in nature is contaminated in some way. Ingesting untreated and/or bacteria-filled water can lead to stomach cramps, diarrhea and kidney problems.
Boiling water is the most common often most effective ways to kill harmful bacteria in water found while backpacking. If you run out of water or lose you canteen, don't just fill up at the nearest river. River or lake water is full of microorganisms and pathogens that aren't good for you. Instead, build a fire, hang a pot full of water over the fire and boil it so it is safe to drink.
Iodine treatment requires some planning, but it's quicker than boiling water. Many outdoors stores sell what are called potable aqua tablets that purify water. Follow the instructions on the package to purify water. Normally, iodine treatments won't take longer than an hour to purify water with these tablets. Don't add to powdered drink mixes (such as Gatorade or tea) until after the water has been purified. Iodine pills will leave the water slightly cloudy and smelling as though it has been chemically treated.
Natural filters are also a way to go when backpacking, especially in foreign countries where water is known to contain toxins. Websites such as WaterFilters.net sell a variety of filters that easily slip inside of bottles. They contain a carbon filter that removes chemicals, chlorine and other contaminants commonly found in water. While these filters get rid of some toxins, only boiling and/or chemical treatments can rid your water from all the waterborne viruses that are small enough to pass through a filter.