Gear Review: Water-to-Go Filter Bottles – A Hiking and Wild Camper's Essential
- Kate
- May 7
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Gear Review: Water-to-Go Filter Bottles – A Hiking and Wild Camper's Essential
When you're out hiking remote trails or wild camping far from the nearest tap, clean water becomes essential. That's where the Water-to-Go filter bottles come into play. After weeks of testing them across various trails, streams, and one somewhat questionable puddle, I can confidently say they've earned a spot in my hiking kit.
Use code SHESGOINGSOLO15 for 15% off at: http://watertogo.eu/
What Is Water-to-Go?
Water-to-Go bottles are reusable water bottles with built-in filtration technology. They effectively remove up to 99.9999% of contaminants. This includes bacteria, viruses, protozoa, chemicals, and even microplastics. Designed initially with NASA tech, these filters handle pretty much anything nature or human pollution throws into a water source.
Why Water-to-Go Is More Than Just a Hiking Filter Water Bottle
The Water-to-Go bottle serves one purpose: to transform unsafe water into clean, drinkable water instantly. Whether you're refilling from a stream in the Scottish Highlands or a river in the Alps, the built-in filter removes:
✅ Bacteria
✅ Viruses
✅ Protozoa
✅ Microplastics
✅ Heavy metals and chemicals
This lightweight, eco-friendly option is an excellent alternative to disposable bottles or bulky pump filters. It's also a significant upgrade from chlorine tablets. The bottles are handy for foreign travel too, especially when you're unsure if the drinking water is safe. I even use these bottles in my work office!
How It Works
The filter employs a combination of mechanical filtration, electrostatic charge, and carbon. It starts working as soon as you fill the bottle and take your first sip. There's no need for pumping, tablets, or waiting—just fill and drink.
Which Bottle Is Right for You?
There are two main Water-to-Go bottles perfect for hiking and wild camping:
750ml Eco Active Bottle (£37.99):
Squeezable design for rapid water delivery.
Each filter lasts for 200 litres.
Comes with a detachable clip for a carabiner.
Features a new single-handed action click lid.
The lid covers the entire drinking area for hygiene.
Weighs just 138 grams.
BPA-free materials.
The filter is 100% recyclable.
The bottle is NOT dishwasher safe.
Made from translucent material with content markings for easy refilling.
Fits nicely in backpack pockets and bike cages.
500ml Classic Bottle (£24.99):
The filter lasts for 200 litres.
Replaces 400 single-use plastic water bottles.
Weighs just 98 grams.
BPA-free materials.
The filter is 100% recyclable.
The bottle is NOT dishwasher safe.
Field-Tested on the Trail
I have tested the 750ml bottle during a multi-day solo hike through the Lake District and again during a wild camp in the Yorkshire Dales. Here are a few highlights:
Ease of Use: The design is intuitive and straightforward. Fill from a stream, screw on the lid, and drink.
No Aftertaste: Unlike chlorine tablets, there's no weird chemical flavour—just clean, neutral-tasting water.
Weight: At just 138g for the 750ml model, it's perfect for lightweight hiking setups.
Eco-Friendly Bonus: There's no need for single-use plastic bottles, benefiting both you and the planet.
Replacement filters are £16.99 and need changing every month or after 200 litres of use.
Downsides?
While there are not many downsides to consider, a few points are worth noting:
The flow rate is slightly slower than that of regular bottles. You won't be guzzling water quickly. However, this slower flow guarantees thorough filtration.
The bottle is not designed for filtering large quantities, such as for cooking or refilling a hydration bladder. However, you can squeeze the water into another container.
Why Water-to-Go is One of the Best Hiking Water Bottles for 2025
This bottle checks all the boxes for solo hikers, backpackers, and wild campers: clean water, minimal weight, and simplicity. It significantly reduces the need for disposable plastic bottles, which is vital for anyone focused on sustainability.
Final Thoughts on The Water-To-Go Bottles
If you're hiking in the UK or anywhere abroad, particularly in areas with uncertain water sources, having a Water-to-Go bottle is a wise choice. It simplifies water safety without adding unnecessary weight to your pack. I've permanently clipped it to my rucksack and can confidently say I wouldn't camp without it.
Rating: ★★★★★ 5/5
Where to Buy: Water-to-Go Official Site, and don't forget to use code SHESGOINGSOLO15 for 15% off!
Stay safe, stay hydrated – and go solo, confidently.
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