Water Filter?

[jlietzow]

I'm leaving for SJPP in two days and think that I'm well prepared after planning for several months. However I haven't been able to decide whether or not to bring a water filter. I'm hoping for some last minute insights from others who have done the CF before.

Normally when I backpack in the backcountry I carry a 3 liter bladder and on most days that meets my hydration needs until I refill at camp each evening. However, given the frequent fountains along the CF I'm planning to bring a 1 liter Smart water bottle instead and refill it as needed. The bottle will be much more convenient and easier to fill at a fountain than my bladder.

But I'm a little nervous about the water sources that aren't potable, or at least not tested regularly. I have a Sawyer Squeeze mini filter that is really simple and quick to use and only weighs 3 ounces. I'm thinking about bringing it so that I can use any reasonable water source. My other option would be to carry a second liter of water, but the filter weighs much less (3 oz vs 35 oz).

Am I worried needlessly? I don't see anyone suggesting water filters on their packing lists, but I think I'd be more comfortable having it with me. For those of you who've done the CF before, would you have used a water filter if you'd have had one with you?

Thanks.

 

[henrythedog]

Honestly not needed. There are water sources aplenty. Maybe pack half a dozen purification tablets?

 

[trecile]

Am I worried needlessly? I don't see anyone suggesting water filters on their packing lists, but I think I'd be more comfortable having it with me. For those of you who've done the CF before, would you have used a water filter if you'd have had one with you?

Thanks

Yes, you are worried needlessly.
I have never used a filtration device nor seen other pilgrims using one on the Camino.

 

[J Willhaus]

The fountains are fine, however, you can always ask in a bar for a water refill to your bottle. This is not like back country hiking or camping except for the walking and backpack parts.

 

[trecile]

There's a recent thread Tap or bottled water? that might be useful.

 

[Anniesantiago]

The water along the Frances is fine. Honestly, the infrastructure in some parts of Spain make America look like a Third World country. It isn’t Mexico, it is Spain. The water is good

 

[C clearly]

But I'm a little nervous about the water sources that aren't potable, or at least not tested regularly.

Don't fill at those ones. I would pop into the bar across the street, have a snack, use their toilets, and fill up from the tap!

However, since it weighs little, you can take it if it makes you more comfortable.

 

[RJM]

Ditto on checking out the other thread, and ditto on the safeness of Spain's tap water. It's a first world country and walking the Camino Frances isn't really a backpacking trip, in the traditional sense.

 

[jlietzow]

Looks like the concensus is clear - I'll leave the water filter at home. Thanks to all for the prompt replies!

 

[jlietzow]

Yes, you are worried needlessly.
I have never used a filtration device nor seen other pilgrims using one on the Camino.

That says a lot! Thanks.

 

[Geodoc]

I've done the first leg of the CF from SJPdP to Roncesvalles. If doing it again, I would definitely carry two liters of water. Once past Valcarlos on the low route, or Orisson on the Napoleon route, there are very few places to fill up (one non-potable water fountain on the low route and a food truck on the Napoleon). I also recommend two-three liters for the Meseta. Water filter not needed (but as henrythedog said, bring some water purification tablets if you really feel the need.

 

[lt56ny]

The water along the Frances is fine. Honestly, the infrastructure in some parts of Spain make America look like a Third World country. It isn’t Mexico, it is Spain. The water is good

I live in Mexico and Spain sure isn't Mexico in so many ways. In one way everyone can agree is the water. Don't drink it South of the Border for sure! You are so right about US infrastructure. Ask anyone in Flint.

 

[Anniesantiago]

I've done the first leg of the CF from SJPdP to Roncesvalles. If doing it again, I would definitely carry two liters of water. Once past Valcarlos on the low route, or Orisson on the Napoleon route, there are very few places to fill up (one non-potable water fountain on the low route and a food truck on the Napoleon). I also recommend two-three liters for the Meseta. Water filter not needed (but as henrythedog said, bring some water purification tablets if you really feel the need.

I was shocked when you said 2 L because I only carry about 8-16 ounces but Joe says he carries 2 L also. Maybe it’s a guy thing. Anyway there are fountains at SJPP, Orisson, and Roland’s Fountain.
Those three are enough for me, but I walk in the spring when it’s cool. One year when I walked in the hot weather Roland’s fountain was dry.

 

[Former member 92300]

It is very easy to find potable water along the Frances route. There is no need to use non-potable water sources unless you totally under carry the amount of water you need. Carrying a 1L water bottle will suffice in most sections of the Camino. I tend to carry 1 - 1 1/2 liters and that is plenty. The only "long" section without water is the 17km stretch on the Meseta - that is the only stretch I carried 2L and I probably did that for Orisson to Roncesvalles too.

 

[Geodoc]

I was shocked when you said 2 L because I only carry about 8-16 ounces but Joe says he carries 2 L also. Maybe it’s a guy thing. Anyway there are fountains at SJPP, Orisson, and Roland’s Fountain.
Those three are enough for me, but I walk in the spring when it’s cool. One year when I walked in the hot weather Roland’s fountain was dry.

Trust me. When it's 40C outside, with no shade other than your hat, you go through a lot of water fast.

 

[Anniesantiago]

Trust me. When it's 40C outside, with no shade other than your hat, you go through a lot of water fast.

I don’t walk in 40° weather so I would not know

 

[Geodoc]

I don’t walk in 40° weather so I would not know

But many do

 

[Anniesantiago]

But many do

Yes but you were responding to my post.

I’m pretty sure the OP stated they were leaving in two days. It’s cold and rainy in Spain (I’m here) and they are walking on the Camino Frances. It is not going to be 40°