Water & Purification: Decision Flowchart
Step 1: Assess Your Water Source
➡️ Is the water clear and flowing?
Yes ➡️ Filtration or UV purification is a good choice.
No ➡️ Use a filter first, then follow up with chemical treatment or boiling.
Yes ➡️ Use a filter first, then follow up with chemical treatment or boiling.
No ➡️ Proceed with purification as planned.
➡️ Are you in an area with known viruses (e.g., near livestock or human activity)?
Yes ➡️ Use chemical treatment or boiling in addition to filtration.
No ➡️ Filtration alone may be sufficient.
Step 2: Choose a Purification Method
➡️ Do you need fast water treatment?
Yes ➡️ Use a UV purifier (90 seconds) or filtration (immediate use).
No ➡️ Chemical treatment (15–30 min) or boiling (5+ min) are options.
➡️ Are you ultralight backpacking?
Yes ➡️ Use chemical treatment or a compact filter (e.g., Sawyer Squeeze).
No ➡️ Any method works; choose based on conditions.
➡️ Is freezing a concern?
Yes ➡️ Avoid filters (they can crack if water inside freezes); use chemical treatment or boiling.
No ➡️ Any method works.
➡️ Do you need to treat large amounts of water?
Yes ➡️ Gravity filters or chemical treatment are best.
No ➡️ Smaller filters, UV purifiers, or boiling will work fine.
Step 3: Carry & Store Water Efficiently
➡️ Are water sources frequent?
Yes ➡️ Carry minimal storage (1-2L bottles/bladders).
No ➡️ Carry extra capacity (3L+ or a collapsible container).
➡️ Do you prefer easy, on-the-go drinking?
Yes ➡️ Use a hydration bladder.
No ➡️ Water bottles or soft flasks work fine.
➡️ Are you in a desert or dry region?
Yes ➡️ Plan for extra capacity and know all potential water sources.
No ➡️ Standard carrying methods should suffice.
This flowchart helps ensure the right Water & Purification choices based on conditions, efficiency, and safety.
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