Why Make Purified Water Instead of Carrying It?

Every liter of water weighs about 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs). Carrying the recommended minimum of 3–4 liters for a day hike adds 6.6–8.8 lbs to your pack—more if you're in hot weather, at altitude, or going for longer.

• Water quickly becomes the single heaviest item in your backpack.
• It's also space-consuming, taking up precious room and making your pack more cumbersome.
• Over multi-day trips, it's impossible to carry enough for all your needs (drinking, cooking, hygiene).

If you carry all your water and unexpectedly run out—due to heat, exertion, injury, or trip delays—dehydration can become a serious or life-threatening risk. Streams, lakes, and rain can all be sources of water if you have a way to purify them.

• Carrying only what you need to reach the next water source is much safer if you have purification gear.
• Weather and terrain can change; unexpected delays can happen. Being able to make safe water means you’re covered.

Less weight and bulk means more comfort, faster travel, and less fatigue. Experienced hikers and survivalists always minimize unnecessary weight, and water is the top target for weight reduction.

• Light packs reduce risk of injury and joint stress.
• You'll be more agile and able to cover more distance.
• You save space for food, emergency gear, and other essentials.

Making your own water in the field means less reliance on single-use bottles or large plastic containers, reducing waste and environmental impact.

• Less plastic waste carried in and out of the wilderness.
• Reduces the need for resupply points and packaging.
• Promotes better wilderness stewardship and "Leave No Trace" principles.

With a reliable purification method (filter, distiller, chemical, UV), you can turn almost any freshwater source into safe drinking water—and for distillation, even seawater or contaminated sources become viable.

• You're never truly "out" of water as long as you can find a source to treat.
• Removes worry about rationing and lets you drink to your needs.

In emergencies, having the ability to purify water is arguably the single most important survival skill. Carrying water is only a short-term solution.

• You can help others, treat injuries, and cook food safely.
• If lost or delayed, you are far better off with purification gear than just a fixed water supply.

With a compact distiller, filter, or chemical kit, you can adapt to whatever water conditions you find—from clear streams to questionable puddles.

• Refill at every opportunity, keep moving light, and never be tied to a heavy, rigid resupply schedule.