Getting water with Ease: The Platypus QuickDraw Filtration System
Rating: ★★★★★
Access to clean drinking water is one of the most important aspects of any camping or hiking trip, especially when you’re exploring remote areas. While natural water sources like lakes, rivers, and streams may look pristine, they can contain harmful microorganisms, bacteria, protozoa, and sediments that pose serious health risks. This is where water filtration systems like the Platypus QuickDraw Filtration System come in—they provide a simple, portable solution to ensure that you stay hydrated safely while enjoying the great outdoors. We took it into the backcountry on multiple hiking and camping trips and gave it the full test.
Specifications
- Premium 1L Reservoir: Proprietary tri-layer film dirty reservoir has an easy-fill easy wide mouth opening, a fill handle, and is super durable and packable—plus it’s guaranteed plastic-taste-free.
- Combine & Customize: I/O dual threads and the ConnectCap let you dial in your custom leak-free system using the clean and dirty vessels you prefer, like smartwater® bottles and Platy bottles.
- Fast Flowing: Hollow fibers filter up to 3 liters per minute with normal squeeze pressure.
- Easy Cleaning: Easily shake-to-clean the system or backflush it to keep the water flowing fast throughout your trip.
- Safe & Effective: Each microfilter is individually tested to ensure it meets all EPA & NSF guidelines for the removal of 99.9999% of bacteria and 99.9% of protozoa*.
- Comes with QuickDraw Filter, 1L QuickDraw dirty reservoir with cap, dirty-side cap, ConnectCap™ with cover, DrinkCap, backflush washer.
- 1L Ultralight & Compact: The entire system (filter + reservoir) weighs just 3.3 oz (95 g) and packs smaller than a rolled-up t-shirt.
- 2L Ultralight: At just 5.7 oz (161 g), it keeps things ultralight with the added versatility of higher water capacity.
We recently used the Platypus QuickDraw Filtration System (both 1 and 2 liter versions) during a 5-day camping trip in Algonquin Park and a backcountry hike in Frontenac Provincial Park. Here’s how it performed.
Performance and Filtration
The QuickDraw did an excellent job filtering water from various sources, including lakes and streams. It reliably removed particles and provided clear, great-tasting water without any off-flavors. The flow rate is impressive, allowing us to filter water quickly without much effort—a huge plus when you’re thirsty after a long hike. The hollow fiber filter is easy to use and feels efficient, making water stops brief and manageable.
Ease of use
One of the standout features is how simple the system is to use. Filling the reservoir is quick, and the squeeze filter setup makes it easy to get water on the go. We particularly appreciated the versatility of having both 1 and 2-liter options, which was helpful when managing our water needs on multi-day trips. The filtration system packs down small, making it easy to fit in a day pack or a larger camping setup.
Durability
The QuickDraw proved to be durable, handling rough terrain and constant use without showing signs of wear. The backflush process to clean the filter is straightforward, which is essential for maintaining the flow rate over several days. We backflushed the filter a couple of times, and it worked smoothly every time, keeping the flow rate optimal.
Pros
- Fast Filtration: Great flow rate, even after several days of use.
- Lightweight & Compact: Easy to carry and doesn’t take up much space.
- Versatile: Both 1 and 2-liter options were handy for different scenarios.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain in the field.
Cons
- Requires Careful Handling of Dirty Water: Ensure the dirty water doesn’t mix with the clean reservoir to avoid cross-contamination.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning the Platypus QuickDraw Filtration System is straightforward and essential for maintaining its performance and flow rate. To clean the filter, you’ll primarily use a backflushing method, which involves reversing the flow of water through the filter to clear out trapped particles and debris. Start by filling the clean reservoir or any clean water container with fresh water. Attach the QuickDraw filter as you would for regular use, but instead of squeezing water through, gently backflush by squeezing the clean reservoir to force water back through the filter in the opposite direction. You can also tap the filter gently to dislodge stubborn debris. For a more thorough clean, add a small amount of water mixed with a tiny bit of bleach (around 2 drops per liter) to the reservoir, backflush again, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any bleach residue. Regular cleaning after each trip or whenever you notice a decrease in flow rate will ensure the QuickDraw remains efficient and ready for your next adventure.
Overall Impressions
The Platypus QuickDraw Filtration System is a reliable, easy-to-use, and efficient choice for both camping and backcountry hiking. Its compact size, fast filtration, and easy maintenance make it an excellent addition to any outdoor setup, particularly for multi-day trips where clean water is essential. I’d highly recommend it for anyone looking for a lightweight and versatile water filtration system that performs well in various conditions.
The 1 vs 2 Litre?
The Platypus QuickDraw Filtration System is available in both 1-liter and 2-liter models, each catering to different needs and preferences. The primary difference lies in their capacity and intended use: the 1-liter model is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for solo hikers, trail runners, or anyone needing a minimalistic option for quick hydration on the go. It fits easily into small packs and is perfect for short trips or day hikes where frequent refills are convenient. On the other hand, the 2-liter model offers double the capacity, making it a better choice for multi-day trips, larger groups, or those who prefer to filter and carry more water at once to reduce stops along the way. The larger size does add a bit more bulk, but it remains highly portable and efficient, especially when base camping or in areas where water sources might be less frequent. Both models use the same QuickDraw filter cartridge, ensuring consistent filtration performance regardless of the reservoir size, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on how much water you need at any given time.
Full Specs
Overall Rating
Grip/Traction: ★★★★★
Comfort: ★★★★★
Design: ★★★★★
Durability: ★★★★★
Cost: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★★
Types of Water Filtration Systems
- Squeeze Filters: Lightweight and compact, these filters use gravity or manual squeezing to push water through a hollow fiber membrane, trapping contaminants. They’re great for personal use or small groups and are popular among backpackers.
- Pump Filters: Ideal for filtering larger quantities of water, pump filters work by manually pumping water through a filter element. They’re reliable and work well in shallow water sources where filling a reservoir might be difficult.
- Gravity Filters: These systems use gravity to pull water through a filter, making them hands-free and great for filtering large amounts at camp. Just hang the reservoir, and gravity does the work, making them a convenient choice for groups.
- Straw Filters: Simple and direct, straw filters allow you to drink directly from a water source. They’re ultra-lightweight and are great for emergencies or day hikes but aren’t ideal for storing filtered water for later use.
- Bottle Filters: Integrated into water bottles, these filters allow you to fill up and drink directly. They’re convenient for on-the-go hydration and can be easily refilled from streams or lakes along your route.
Using a Water Filtration System: Key Tips
- Know Your Filter’s Capabilities: Different filters are designed to handle different contaminants. Be aware of what your filter can and cannot remove, such as viruses, which require a purifier rather than a basic filter.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep dirty water and clean water separate to prevent contamination. Pay attention when filling your filter and avoid touching the clean outlet with dirty water.
- Regular Maintenance: Backflush or clean your filter regularly, especially on multi-day trips, to maintain the flow rate and effectiveness of your system.
- Plan for Unexpected Conditions: Have a backup water treatment method, such as purification tablets or a spare filter, in case your primary system fails.
Using a water filtration system is an essential skill for outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring that you can enjoy the wilderness while staying healthy and hydrated. With the right filter and some basic know-how, you can confidently drink from natural sources, no matter where your adventures take you.