The CamelBak All Clear is a all in one UV filtration and bottle system.

The CamelBak All Clear is an all-in-one UV filtration and water bottle system (click to enlarge).​

Lowdown: CamelBak All Clear UV Filtration System

The All Clear from CamelBak is a unique system that bundles a UV water filter and bottle into one convenient package that's simple to use, treats water faster than comparable products, and can purify up to 16 gallons on a single charge. At just over a pound, it's a little heavy for hardcore backpacking, but is an excellent option for traveling abroad or short camping trips.

Capacity: 25 oz / 0.75 litersLife expectancy: Up to 10,000 treatment cycles
Total weight: 1.1 poundsWarranty: Lifetime
Charge: 80 cycles or 16 gallons per chargeMSRP: $99
Bottle material: BPA Free co-polyesterRating:
4 Flamin' Chili Peppers
4 out of 5
Stat Box


Pluses

Minuses
  • Treats up to 16 gallons on one charge
  • Only works on clear water unless pre-filtered
  • Treats water in 60 seconds
  • Lifetime warranty

Review: CamelBak All Clear UV Filtration System

If you've spent much time traveling abroad, you know how blessed we are in the United States to have access to clean water. In many parts of the world, the tap water is unfit to drink unless it's been boiled or treated. Even locals will sometimes use bottled water for tasks like brushing their teeth.

Unlike pumps or chemical systems, purifying water with a UV filter is a quick and easy process.

Unlike pumps or chemical systems, purifying water with a UV filter is a quick and easy process (click to enlarge).​

I'm not an ultra-conservationist by any means, but I hate buying bottled water. So whenever I travel to undeveloped countries, I always try to pack a filtration system. These come in a variety of shapes and forms, but my preferred solution is a UV filter. These devices treat water quickly, are effective against both bacteria and viruses, and don't take up a ton of suitcase space. Here's a video primer on CamelBak's UV filter offering.



CamelBak's All Clear UV system is unique in that it combines a UV filtration system and bottle in one unit. To purify water you fill the bottle, affix the UV head, then agitate for 60 seconds. An LCD on the cap verifies that the water is safe to drink. Then you can remove the UV head and replace with the normal cap. Just make sure to wipe down the threads before drinking. For convenience, these directions are outlined on the bottle.

Continue to page 2 for more of our CamelBak All Clear UV filtration system review »

After 60 seconds, the LCD screen on the All Clear will alert you that the water is safe to drink.

After 60 seconds, the LCD screen on the All Clear alerts you that your water is safe to drink (click to enlarge).​

The only downside to the UV filter is that it only works on clear water. Any turbidity allows bacteria to hide from UV rays, so you need to use a pre-filter if there is visible sediment. CamelBak sells a filter for $16 that mounts to the All Clear and uses a 500 Micron nylon screen to remove particulates. This device is handy when backpacking, but usually is not necessary if you're just filtering tap water.

The All Clear can purify up to 16 gallons on a single charge and the bulb is good for 10,000 cycles.

The All Clear can purify up to 16 gallons on a single charge and the bulb is good for 10,000 cycles (click to enlarge).​

I used the All Clear earlier this year while traveling through Thailand to filter water for my hydration pack and brush my teeth. CamelBak claims its system will treat 80 cycles or 16 gallons before needing to be recharged and I was able to make it through almost two weeks of travel without plugging in.

The All Clear isn't ideal for hardcore backpacking trips when you're stressing over every ounce, but it's perfect for traveling abroad or car camping.

The All Clear isn't ideal for hardcore backpacking trips when you're stressing over every ounce, but it's great for traveling abroad or car camping (click to enlarge).​

At just over a pound for the entire system, the All Clear is probably not light enough for hardcore backpackers, but is compact enough for traveling abroad, car camping, or weekend getaways. As an added benefit, the UV head is compatible with a range of CamelBak products and accessories. If you don't care for the chemical taste of Iodine and don't want to deal with filters or pumps (which may not be effective against certain viruses), then the All Clear is well worth your consideration.

For more info, visit www.camelbak.com.