So, let me first say, that I rarely use chemical water treatment, if ever. I grew up in latin america, and have never been sick from bad water, that being said, I'm pretty sure I just jinxed myself.

I don't want to use chemical treatments, I can always taste the stuff in municipal water, and I dun like it.

So, what is the least harsh method, assuming I'll use an Aquamira FP afterwards? Chemical wise that is.

I know Bob is gonna ask me about the water source and situation.. Well I'm speaking of generally to highly questionable sources where viruses might be a possibility, i.e. SE asia, India, Africa.

What about mildly questionable sites? i.e. most stateside sources? Am I pushing it just using the FP? I used to use a Sweetwater, but it's too too heavy anymore.

Thanks!

Edited by jdempsey on 02/08/2010 17:47:11 MST.

I would boil it.

That applies to ordinary elevations. Once you go above a certain high elevation, boiling is not so effective for water treatment of some risks. OTOH, when you get that high, many of those risks are absent.

I've camped up around that certain high elevation, but there was no liquid water. The snow was full of little petrified artifacts from previous campers. We melted it and boiled it.

--B.G.--

Thanks Bob, that's what I wanted to hear.

I agree with Bob.

Assuming that the water is free from chemical contamination (e.g., heavy metals, toxic runoff, etc.), a good boil is the best way to purify your water. Just be sure whatever container you decant your freshly-purified water to is clean and dry (i.e., doesn't contain droplets of nonpurified water).

There are a lot of excellent threads on this site on boiling techniques. Check 'em out...