Are you concerned about drinking tap water when you travel? Getting sick from drinking contaminated water can ruin your trip so in this article I’ll compare the best water filter bottles for travel for you to choose from. I first learned about filtered water bottles when I went to South America back in 2016, and I have travelled with one ever since – it was a total game changer for me.
Whether you are trekking through the tropical jungles of South America or exploring a city like London, a reliable filtered water bottle is the number one travel accessory that every global explorer should have, so let’s dive in and decide which is the best water bottle with a filter for travel!
What are the Best Water Filter Bottles For Travel?
If you want more information about purifying water while travelling then scroll down for all of the details. However, if you’re ready to decide which water filter bottle is best for travel, let’s get into detail.
I have done far more research than any normal person would do to choose these filtering water bottles, and I have personally tried and tested my top picks to make sure they are as good as they say they are.
I haven’t been able to test any scientific claims as I don’t have my own lab, but speaking from personal experience while travelling I am more than happy to recommend these water bottles. The best filter water bottles are ideal for hiking or everyday backpacking and travelling and include a variety of features to help keep your water pure and refreshing no matter where you travel.
Water-to-Go Active 25oz (75cl) Water Purifier Bottle
- It is a good size, easy to hold and fits into backpack pockets as well as bicycle bottle holders.
- The filter uses three different filtration methods together to remove up to 99.9999% of all microbiological contaminants including viruses
- Holds up to 25oz (75cl) of water
- Lightweight and easy to carry, weighing in at 4.9oz (139g)
- The bottle is made from recyclable FDA-approved BPA-free plastic
- Filter Life is approximately 3 months or 53 gallons (200 litres) and replaces up to 400 single-use plastic bottles
- Great value, priced under $60 USD, plus get 15% discount with the code BYORB when you buy direct
Why I Recommend Water-to-Go
Water to Go bottles use a unique 3-in-1 filter, created based on technology originally developed for NASA. Using the three different filtration methods together in one filter removes up to 99.9999% of all microbiological contaminants in water including:
- Viruses including Hepatitis A, Rotavirus and Norovirus
- Bacteria including E.Coli and Cholera
- Protazoan parasites including Giardia and Cryptosporidium
- Chemicals and pesticides including PFAs and chlorine
- Particulates including microplastics and sediment
- Heavy metals including lead, mercury and chromium
Along with Grayl (see below) as far as I know, this is the only filter water bottle that filters viruses, the other bottles don’t, so that is one reason why I recommend Water-to-Go as the best water filter bottle for travel because it is one of the safest and most effective filter water bottles.
The three technologies used in a Water-to-Go filter are:
- Mechanical filtration – meaning a very small pore size in the filter to stop contaminants from passing through.
- Activated Carbon filters are contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours.
- Electrical filtration (by a positive charge) reduces the pore size even further and attracts the contaminants like a magnet would, trapping them inside the filter.
You fill up the bottle, screw on the lid which has the filter inserted and drink through the filter, which acts like a straw. You do need to suck a little through the filter but you get quite a lot of water in each mouthful.
If you are in an area where you know the drinking water is safe you can also remove the filter and still use the bottle – just remember to replace it when you leave!
I have now had three styles of Water-to-Go bottles, the ones I am currently using are the Active 25oz (75cl) Water Purifier Bottle and the Bio-Plastic bottle. Previously I had a smaller 50cl Go! Bottle, which was great but I prefer the larger size as I don’t have to fill up as often.
You can buy directly from Water-to-Go and get 15% discount with the code BYORB
GET 15% DISCOUNT WITH THE CODE BYORB
Or check reviews and buy on Amazon here.
Water-to-Go Bioplastic Water Filter Bottle for Travel
- The bottle body is made with eco-friendly BioPlastic from 100% sustainable sugar cane
- The filter uses three different filtration methods together to remove up to 99.9999% of all microbiological contaminants including viruses
- Holds up to 18oz (55cl) of water
- Super lightweight and easy to carry, weighing in at just 3.5 oz (99 g)
- Filter Life is approximately 3 months or 53 gallons (200 litres) and replaces up to 400 single-use plastic bottles
- Great value, priced under $60 USD, plus get 15% discount with the code BYORB when you buy direct
More great news, Water-to-Go have recently launched their Bioplastic Water Filter Bottle for Travel which is replacing their 50cl Go! Water Bottle, with the tagline “Plastic from Plants, not Petroleum”. I got my hands on one and have been using it in Europe for the last couple of months.
I haven’t tested it in more adventurous conditions yet but the filtration method is exactly the same as the Water Purifier Bottle above so I am happy to recommend it – the filters are interchangeable so it does exactly the same job in a more eco-friendly way.
The new bottle is made from Bioplastic – the body of the bottle is made from 100% sustainably produced and ethically harvested sugar cane and is one of the only filter water bottles in this list that is not made with plastic – although it isn’t a completely plastic free water bottle as the lid is made from recycled plastic.
The sugarcane bottle is produced with 60% less energy and 40% less greenhouse gasses than regular plastic bottles, so you can feel even better about reducing even more plastic use and choosing the most eco-friendly water bottle possible! Another cool feature of the Bioplastic Water Filter Bottle is that it is dishwasher safe too.
It has a smaller capacity than the Active Water Purifier Bottle, holding 18.5oz/55cl of water, so would be a good eco-friendly travel accessory for ultra-lite travellers and hikers who know they will have access to a water source along the route. A bio-plastic version of the Active bottle is due out later in 2024 so look out for that.
GRAYL Ultrapress Water Filter Bottle
- Like the Water-to-Go Bottles, GRAYL also filters 99.9% of viruses, 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoan parasites so it is one of the safest choices.
- Holds up to 16.9 fl oz (500 ml) of water
- Made from BPA-FREE Polypropylene
- Replaceable Purifier Cartridge rated for 300 cycles (or after 3 yrs have elapsed since first use)
- Disassembles for easy cleaning
- Sturdy bottle design that withstands drop tests up to 6 ft (at full capacity)
- Includes a FlipCarry handle that can be folded down when not required
- 10 Year warranty when purchased from authorized GRAYL retailer.
However:
- It weighs 12.5 oz (354g) when empty, so it is the heaviest water bottle on the list
- Relatively small capacity bearing in mind the weight
- One of the most expensive filter bottles with prices around $80 – $90 USD
GRAYL filter bottles work in a different way to most other water filter bottles as you fill up the bottle and press down the filter the clean the water. You then drink from the bottle as you would a normal water bottle – there is no sucking required.
The fast and easy filter system eliminates waterborne pathogens, viruses, chemicals and metal particles in less than 10 seconds, ensuring every sip is pure, odourless and refreshing. However, some people may find it hard to push down the filter as it does need quite a bit of pressure.
Other cool design features include a strengthened plastic exterior that has been dropped-tested up to 6 feet, meaning you can be confident that your Grayl water bottle will last for as long as your travels.
The Grayl water bottle’s easy to use pressure filter, compact design and ability to purify any wild water source makes it the perfect travelling companion for an international explorer, and when purchased from an authorized Grayl retailer, Grayl provides a ten-year warranty on any of their filtered water bottles, giving you the power to purchase with confidence.
The reinforced BPA free exterior and ten-year warranty is what puts the Grayl water bottle second on my list for the best water filter for travel. However, it is the heaviest and one of the most expensive water filter bottles on our list (aside from the GRAYL Geopress) so not ideal for ultra-light hikers or budget backpackers.
GRAYL Geopress Filtered Water Bottle
- Holds up to 24 fl oz (700 ml) of water
- Weighs a whopping 15.9 oz (450g) when empty
- Most expensive with prices just under $100 USD
LifeStraw Go Water Filter for Travel
A leading brand in filtration innovation, LifeStraw creates some of the best filter water bottles in the world. Using an advanced filter design that is long-lasting and durable, the LifeStraw Go water bottle is an excellent eco-friendly travel accessory for travellers on the move.
I used my LifeStraw bottle for two years while travelling around South America, Central America and Mexico and didn’t have any issues. However it doesn’t filter viruses like the Water-to-Go and GRAYL bottles do, so I have since switched to Water-to-Go for that extra peace of mind.
A two-stage membrane and carbon filter system eliminates 99% of parasites, microplastics and chemical contaminants, so it will be suitable for most destinations and water sources. Membrane microfilter filters up to 1,000 gallons of water, meaning you will spend less time and money constantly replacing filters.
Durable plastic exterior is BPA free but treated to remain lightweight for easy transportation. LifeStraw not only provides fantastic filtered water bottles that remove nearly all water-based contaminants but every product purchased also ensures that a child in need receives safe drinking water for an entire school year.
With a LifeStraw Go water bottle you can enjoy refreshing filtered water anywhere while also helping to improve the world around you. It is definitely one of the best water filters for travel, and one I have used myself in the past.
BUY ON AMAZON
Other Water Filter Bottles You Might Like
Larq Bottle PureVis
However, as this system is not a physical filter, it will not eliminate chlorine or other physical contaminants from the water, like soil, chemicals and heavy metals.
This means that if you are likely to be hiking or travelling somewhere remote and need to fill up from a stream, lake or river, then you need to be sure it is clear and free from sediment and dirt before you start, and you still risk drinking contaminated water even with the UV filter.
There are two versions of the bottle available, the PureVis which is self-cleaning and insulated to keep drinks hot for up to 12 hours or cold for up to 24 hours, and a non-insulated version which is slightly lighter.
The advanced purification system and sleek minimalist design of the Larq self-cleaning filter water bottle make one of the most advanced entries on our list of the best water filter bottles for travelling.
The technology and sleek design come at a high price though, which is why this bottle doesn’t feature among my top recommendations for the best water bottles for travel.
UVBrite Go Self-Cleaning UV Water Bottle
It features a two-stage sterilisation mode to ensure that water from the majority of sources can be sterilised while also working as a self-cleaning function.
The double-walled vacuum-sealed cap provides insulation, ensuring you can keep water hot or cold for up to 12 hours.
It also includes a safety lock on the cap to prevent accidental exposure to UV light as well as working to prevent leaks when travelling.
Other brands such as Lavone and CrazyCap offer similar technology, but as with the Larq bottle, because this system is not a physical filter, it will not remove physical contaminants from the water like chemicals and heavy metals, so despite the cool tech it didn’t make it into my top picks.
Nalgene OG Water Bottle with Filter
The Nalgene OG water bottle is one of the best water filter travel options available as it comes in a variety of sizes while its organic coconut shell-based carbon fibre mesh filter is eco-friendly and BPA-free.
Epic replaceable filters last for a guaranteed four months and works to remove bacteria, chlorine, lead and pesticide contaminants from water. A sturdy integrated carry loop allows for easy transport while the silicone mouthpiece keeps the bottle germ-free.
The Nalgene OG bottle is one of the best travel water bottle options available thanks to its epic filter design, easy carry loop and great range of sizes.
The convenient size and resilient design of the replaceable Epic filter is also one of the best water filters for travel, although it doesn’t filter viruses so it missed out on my top slots.
Brita Plastic Water Filter Bottle
A titan in purification, Brita began production in 1966 and acquired the first patent for domestic water filter use in the early 1970s, becoming the industry’s first true pioneers. Brita is known for premium quality filters and their 36 oz water filter bottle is one of the company’s best.
The Brita Insulated Filtered Water Bottle includes an easy sip straw that contains one of Brita’s patented purifying filters. This filter helps to reduce water treatment chemicals such as chlorine and provide you with a more refreshing water-drinking experience.
Brita water bottles includes a built-in carrying loop for improved portability as well as a leakproof lead, meaning you can be confident it won’t spill on your gear during your travels.
Bottle is top-rack dishwasher safe, allowing for easier cleaning and a more sterilised drinking experience.
This water bottle is a great travel gear for those visiting more urban regions during their travels thanks to its Aquacrest filter design and its hardened plastic exterior. It is designed for filtering tap water to make it taste better, but won’t filter as well as the other bottles on the list so isn’t suitable for rivers, streams or more rural destinations without potable water.
Conclusion
The benefits of using a filtered water bottle are endless. Especially when travelling as they ensure you can be confident of constant access to clean drinkable water no matter where in the world you decide to go.
Any eager adventurer or earnest hiker should consider a filter water bottle an absolute travel necessity. Not only do they keep you hydrated during your travels but help to reduce plastic waste the world over.
In my opinion, the Water-to-Go Active bottle is the best water filter bottle for travel, but whichever you choose, stay safe and happy travels!
How Do You Purify Water When Travelling?
There are several water purification methods you could use while travelling, for example using chlorine tablets, boiling water before you drink it, or treating the water with a UV light to kill harmful bacteria.
However, the easiest way to purify water when travelling is by simply filling up a water bottle with a built-in filter and drinking it through that. No hassle, no time wasted, no problem.
Do Filter Water Bottles Really Work?
It sounds too good to be true, a water bottle that filters water for you, but they really do work!
The water filter bottles I’ve used and researched have different water filtration systems to make water safe, and some are more effective than others, so I’ve chosen the best water filter bottles for travel for you.
Some brands of filter water bottles are just designed to make water taste better – not all filter water bottles will make non-potable drinking water safe to drink as their filtration methods are less effective and might not remove heavy metals or viruses for example.
That’s where this article comes in! With the right filtered water bottle for your travels, you will be able to safely drink water from any (fresh) water source, cut down on daily travel costs and reduce plastic waste.
Are Water Filter Bottles Worth It?
100% yes water filter bottles are worth the money. While reusable water bottles are better than single-use plastic, water bottle filters that are built into your bottle are even better because you can fill up with water anywhere and know that it is safe to drink.
With the right filter water bottle, you can drink water from a lake, river, stream, pond, bathroom sink, or dirty puddle and not have any adverse effects.
Can You Travel Internationally With Water Bottles?
If you’re wondering if you can bring a filtered water bottle on a plane, yes, you can travel internationally with EMPTY water bottles. As long as they don’t have liquid in when you pass through security, the TSA has confirmed that travelling with an empty water bottle is totally fine.
I’ve taken my own filter water bottle with me on every trip since 2016 and I have had no issues whatsoever.
All you have to do is find somewhere to fill it up once you have gone through security screening, and if you have a water bottle with a filter that could just be from a tap in the bathroom if there are no water fountains at the airport!
Why Use a Filter Water Bottle While Travelling?
Whenever and wherever you travel, you will be exposed to a variety of different water sources that are sourced and treated in lots of different ways. Whether from a rural creek spring or the treated tap water of a big city, your body will not be accustomed to the water in different parts of the world.
This is where a filtered water bottle can be an absolute lifesaver as they help remove contaminants and chemicals in water, making the water you drink purer, healthier and tastier – and above all, safer.
Aside from providing clean drinking water, having your own reusable water bottle with a filter means you won’t be spending money on buying bottled water or drinks while you are out and about. While there is an initial cost in buying a water filter bottle, in the long run, you will save a lot more money so it is definitely worth buying a filter water bottle.
Last but not least, with your own filter water bottle you will not be adding to the plastic waste that we have. Buying individual bottled drinks contributes a huge amount of unnecessary waste as you accumulate empty plastic water bottles every time you buy a drink.
This is especially important in destinations where it isn’t safe to drink tap water. In such places, often there isn’t the infrastructure to deal with waste management effectively, and as a responsible traveller, you should not be contributing to this problem, so do your bit for the environment and community with a reusable filter water bottle.
Other Times to Use Filter Water Bottles
I’ve written this post about the best filtered water bottles for travel, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use them anywhere else! In fact, there are many reasons why you might want or need to use a water bottle with a filter, for example:
- Camping in tents or in an RV, campervan or motorhome so you can have safe drinking water at all times
- Hiking and backpacking so you can fill up on water from rivers, lakes or streams along your route
- Biking and Bikepacking so you can stay hydrated wherever you cycle
- At home to improve the taste of your tap water, or if you are in an area where the tap water isn’t recommended to drink
- In emergency situations such as fires, floods or earthquakes water sources can be contaminated, so having a water filter bottle in your disaster supplies kit or “Go Bag” is a great way to ensure you can have clean water should the worst happen
- Day to day usage for drinking water, so you don’t buy bottled water or drinks while you are out and about, at work or at the gym.
More Water Filter Bottle FAQs
If you still have questions about travelling with a filter water bottle, these might help:
Can You Drink Seawater with a Filter Water Bottle?
No, seawater is just too salty for us to drink safely. Even the best water filter bottles aren’t able to remove all of the salt from seawater, but they do make water from any fresh water source safe to drink, whether that is tap water, water from a river or stream, or even a stagnant pool.
Can You Drink Urine through a Water Bottle Filter?
It’s not recommended to use filter water bottles to filter urine for drinking – however, if I happen to end up in a life-or-death situation where I have to drink my own pee to survive, I’d probably give it a try!
Do You Need a Filter Water Bottle for Europe?
While it is safe to drink tap water in Europe, it is still a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle to Europe so you don’t waste money and plastic buying bottled water while out and about.
If you have your own reusable water bottle with a filter, you can fill up your bottle wherever you go and be safe in the knowledge you have an endless supply of clean drinking water.
This is great drinking water is now more safer with innovations from this water bottles with filters. thanks to manufacturers.