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Making sure we have safe drinking water is a key consideration for us. Especially when looking at group activities over multiple days. Even a slight illness in the group can lead to the disappointment of an early finish. So having a device which you can trust to provide safe drinking water from most outdoor sources cannot be overlooked.

Fortunately, there are now many water filtration kits available. For our use we prefer something with is lightweight, portable, easy to use with low mechanical parts, and has a decent flow rate to quickly provide safe drinking water on the move.

A filter system also lessens the need to rely on carrying water throughout sections of a route saving on weight carried. A litre of water is 1 kilogram of weight. Which is quite the saving for minimalist travel. Being able to take from a wider range of water sources also saves effort and time by not having to drop low to find a running water source. A win-win for us and we have now carried a water filter with us for over 10 years now.

The  Platypus Quickdraw Microfilter System certainly fits our criteria as a simple to use container and filter solution. Platypus say this system “draws upon decades of expertise in filtration and hydration to provide adventurers the best user experience of any fill-and-squeeze water filter on the market.”

With a total combined weight of 95 grams, this is a very lightweight and compact filter system that easily fits into a small pocket, usually located on our hip belt for quick use on route.

The filter works by collecting water which is then forced through the filter and either drank straight away or decanted into a separate bottle for carrying. The hollow fibre filter meets all EPA & NSF guidelines for the removal of 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa. Which is safe for use throughout most of the UK removing commonly found parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium.

The hollow fibre filter is encased in a rigid plastic moulding. Protective covers on either end keep the Quickdraw in great shape and make it impossible to accidentally use in reverse.

Being a hollow fibre filter it needs noting that this is not an option for winter. Any moisture present inside the filter can freeze which will break the fibres and pass-through water which has not been properly filtered.

The bottle, or reservoir as Platypus refer to it, is a collapsible container made of fairly robust flexible rubber with a wide opening, great for taking from a wide range of water sources. As with all containers of this type there is a worry about piercing and is often wise to take a spare. Unfortunately, the screw top is not compatible with standard bottles so an extra purchase with the same fitting will be an extra cost when considering using this system for extended journeys. It is also labelled ‘dirty’ to ensure you do not mix up sterilised water with non-sterilized. So, this is also a consideration when purchasing a second container. A permanent marker can easily make the distinction and is an easy fix. Saying all this the reservoir performed with no issue at all holding strong with all the rolling and pushing needed to pass the water through the filter.

The flow rate is exceptional for a setup of this type, and we were able to quickly provide a litre of safe drinking water to each of our group within just a few minutes. The rubber O ring forms a solid seal between the reservoir and filter and with just a small amount of force the water passes through providing safe drinking.

A wide range of water sources can be used with the QuickDraw making it a versatile companion especially coming in handy on our long route along the Mullardoch/ Affric Munros. Flowing water sources can be hard to find so taking from small pools of water can often be the only choice. Any debris is also filtered out, but this will slow the flow rate of the filter. This type of filter can be easily cleaned with a back wash being our preferred method.

Our Verdict

The  QuickDraw Microfilter System from Platypus has quickly become a favourite item of ours as a reliable and fast way to produce safe drinking water from mostly all water sources found in the mountain and lowland environments we travel to in Scotland. No mechanical parts make it a great option for multiday use and the fast flow rate makes the QuickDraw a great option for solo and group use. The reservoir being made of a flexible material can be prone to wear and punctures so best to bring along a spare just in case. Unfortunately, the fitting is not universal so a specific container with the correct fitting is needed. 

Trek Scotland is a small family business based in the picturesque village of Tomintoul in the North East region of the Cairngorms National Park. They provide bespoke Mountain Guiding for Single Day Walks and Lightweight Multiday Trekking experiences, including wild camping, in the stunning Cairngorms wilderness and surrounding areas. Whether in the high mountains or lower valleys, their Multiday Treks are equipped with high quality, lightweight camping and trekking gear. They only work with small groups and, whatever your ability, pride themselves on designing your outdoor experience completely to your needs and with professional guidance and expertise. Adventure is waiting... Read more from Trek Scotland