Outdoor tech may be easier than the tools of the past, but when you are in the wilderness, adopting a "better safe than sorry" attitude could be a matter of survival. Enjoy the advantages that these tech devices provide, but be sure you have a backup plan.
On a recent trip to Glacier National Park, I had the opportunity to test some outdoor tech while hiking and camping. While the devices worked as advertised, it wasn't always as simple to use as I would have expected. None of the products tested worked 100 percent of the time. When you are in a situation where your safety and survival relies on this technology, if it isn't right every time, it could have serious consequences. In the case of a failed water purifier, it could make you seriously ill.
Steri-Pen Water Purifier
This is a small, lightweight device that fits easily into your backpack. The Steri-Pen uses Ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses and protozoa that live in stream, lake or other untreated water, making it safe to drink. Ultraviolet light is the method used by water manufacturers to purify bottled water. I tested the Steri-Pen in water from running streams and lived (healthily) to talk about it.
To sterilize water, submerge the Steri-Pen and stir. A green light indicator shows that it is safe to drink. If you plan on using the Steri-Pen don't bring the typical workout water bottles that have small openings and large necks. For the Steri-Pen to work, you must submerge it in the water and stir it down to the bottom of the container. It's just not possible to hang on to the Steri-Pen in a workout water bottle. Instead, bring a plastic or silicone cup, or a wide-mouthed container. The Steri-Pen can purify up to 16 ounces at a time. I was also able to make it work in a partially filled Camelback water bag.
The Steri-Pen is charged using a USB connection. You get 40 uses out of a charge. Once I got the hang of it, I could see the ultraviolet light glowing and the green light appeared after the advertised 48 seconds telling me the water was safe to drink. Still, a couple of times, a red light appeared indicating that I failed at purifying the water.
If you are backpacking, you don't want to be without drinking water. As a backup, I'd suggest bringing a small solar USB charger to keep the Steri-Pen charged, water purifying tablets to be used in a pinch, or a pot for boiling the water if you have any doubts.
Other Uses for the Steri-Pen
Because the Steri-Pen can purify contaminated water, it can be useful in other situations. When you travel to foreign countries, you can have confidence in drinking the water by using the Steri-Pen before quenching your thirst.
During a natural catastrophe, like a hurricane or earthquake, the water supply can become unsafe to drink. While catastrophes are rare, I remember store shelves were emptying of bottled water as people rushed to replenish their water supplies in the days following the 1994 Northridge, California Earthquake. I would have had a bit more peace of mind with a Steri-Pen in my emergency kit.
Part 2 will cover the BackTrack D-Tour GPS
Would you use a water-purifier when camping?
