Water filtration on the AAWT

[Angry155]

Gday All, have a quick question regarding the need for a filtration system if I'm doing the AAWT during Autumn. Is there a need to carry a particulate filter for the trip or will I get away with my steripen and micropur tablets? Not sure if I'm likely to need to suck dirty water on the trip or not. Once again advice is always appreciated.

[Zapruda]

Gday All, have a quick question regarding the need for a filtration system if I'm doing the AAWT during Autumn. Is there a need to carry a particulate filter for the trip or will I get away with my steripen and micropur tablets? Not sure if I'm likely to need to suck dirty water on the trip or not. Once again advice is always appreciated.

The water is mostly sediment free along the whole track.Some of the tanks might have some floaties in them though.

I'd recommend ditching the Steripen and using something like a Katadyn Befree or Sawyer squeeze. They are lighter, quicker, cheaper and they do double duty in removing sediment and bacteria from the water. Because the water is generally clear and clean in the mountains, maintenance is minimal on filters like these.

Keep the Micropur as backup.

[ChrisJHC]

Another benefit of the “bag” systems is that you can carry a couple of extra bags (with lids) and use them as extra storage when needed. They weigh almost nothing and, if stored carefully, should be almost unnoticed until needed.

[anne3]

I walked the AAWT in November/December and did not sterilise any water. I didn’t take any equipment to do so and never felt the need to even boil any drinking water. Food for thought. Enter at own risk LOL.

[Mark F]

I walked the AAWT in November/December and did not sterilise any water. I didn’t take any equipment to do so and never felt the need to even boil any drinking water. Food for thought. Enter at own risk LOL.

As anne says - personal decision. For me I carry a Steripen Freedom (76g) for use around huts and water sources where stock/ferals may impact the quality. This becomes more of an issue when water is in short supply like in autumn.

[gbedford]

I walked the AAWT in November/December and did not sterilise any water. I didn’t take any equipment to do so and never felt the need to even boil any drinking water. Food for thought. Enter at own risk LOL.

I did likewise. Never had any problems in December/ January.

[crollsurf]

A Sawyer or Be free isn't a big weight penalty to play it safe. I'd say you'd be right most of the time but I can tell you from experience, Gardia is a concern on the Main Range.

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