The LifeStraw was developed in order to provide clean water to people in developing countries, but it is inspiring me to think about water filtration options for camping and hiking trips, or even for my earthquake emergency kit, because you never know when you’ll need potable water.

I like the Hydro Photo SteriPen Hand Held UV water purifier because it seems really effective, but it uses batteries, and I want something that doesn’t require an energy source.

The Katadyn Exstream XR Water Purifier might be the ideal option for me. It is the only EPA Registered purifier bottle, and it doesn’t need batteries, which is great. It’s also BPA-free, which is even better. But I have read a few reviews that aren’t that great, so I am a bit hesitant to drop the cash on it.

I also really like the MST Hyperflow Microfilter Water Filter, but you need to provide a container like a water bottle in order to use it, which you might not have in a water emergency.

I haven’t found anything quite like the LifeStraw that is available for retail purchase in the US, but I will keep my fingers crossed, because it is really an ideal water purification device.