Primitive Camping & Bushcraft Episode 6: water essentials

Welcome back to the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Podcast with your host, Chris Speir. This week, we dive into one of the most critical aspects of wilderness survival: water management. Whether you’re out on a leisurely camping trip or facing a dire survival situation, understanding how to find, filter, and purify water is essential.
Chris kicks off the episode by discussing the absolute necessity of water for survival. It's not just about quenching your thirst; water is vital for replenishing fluids lost through sweat, especially when you're active outdoors. He shares practical advice, assuming you're camping near accessible water sources like lakes, rivers, or streams.
Pathogens are a major concern when it comes to drinking water in the wild. Chris highlights the risks posed by viruses, bacteria, and protozoa, including common culprits like E. coli, Salmonella, and Giardia. These pathogens can lead to severe health issues, making proper water treatment crucial.
Boiling water is presented as the safest method to purify it. Chris explains that boiling kills all biological pathogens, ensuring the water is safe to drink. He also emphasizes the importance of always carrying a metal container for boiling water, cautioning against using double-walled insulated bottles which can be dangerous when exposed to heat.
Pre-filtering water is another essential step before purification. Using a handkerchief, Millbank bag, or even a coffee filter, you can remove sediment and debris, making the water clearer and extending the life of your commercial water filter. Chris shares his experiences and tips on pre-filtering, highlighting how simple tools can make a big difference.
For those times when boiling isn’t an option, chemical disinfection can be a lifesaver. Chris talks about using iodine, bleach, and other chemical treatments to make water safe to drink. He provides clear instructions and tips to ensure effective disinfection while acknowledging the distinct tastes these methods might impart to the water.
Natural filtration systems like the tripod water filter and coyote water well are also covered in this episode. Chris walks listeners through the process of setting up these systems using natural materials. These methods are invaluable for filtering large quantities of water and can be easily assembled with items found in the wild.
Commercial water filters come in many shapes and sizes, and Chris reviews some of the most popular options. From pump filters to gravity systems and the highly regarded Grayl Geopress, he explains how each works and why they are essential additions to your camping gear.
Finally, Chris addresses the safety of drinking rainwater, debunking myths about "forever chemicals" and explaining how to collect and use rainwater effectively. He shares his personal preference for rainwater and how it can be a reliable source of hydration in the wild.
Throughout the episode, Chris provides practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a wealth of information from his book, "Primitive Camping and Bushcraft." He encourages listeners to practice these methods, join the Primitive Camping and Bushcraft Facebook group, and engage with a community of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
Thank you for tuning in, and remember, mastering water management is key to enjoying and surviving in the great outdoors. Stay hydrated, stay safe, and see you next time!
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[@stephenking7643]

Great job Chris! When I was a kid I’d never think twice about drinking out of the creek I was fishing in, don’t remember ever getting sick, probably just really lucky! 😂

[@SpeirOutdoors]

Me either, we did it all the time. Prolly had some bad to da bone bacteria in our guts lol

[@markwray366]

Words of wisdom

[@SpeirOutdoors]

Thanks

[@DavidHSmith74]

I like the taste of Dasani water. 😳

[@craftingontheporchwithbill]

Chris I spent the first half of the week in Biloxi and saw your book in the shopping mall bookstore. I hope it's selling well. Secondly, is the Membrane Solutions gravity system a filter or actually a purifier? Thirdly, i watched a lot of coverage of the Hurricane Beryl impacts, which got me pondering if any of our methods work with brackish flood water? I personally would try collecting rainwater as there was certainly a lot of it. Be well and at peace, my friend.

[@SpeirOutdoors]

Brackish water would have to be distilled. Rain water would be the safest bet!

[@DavidHSmith74]

Serious question: fresh rainwater from a puddle on the ground; how long do think it is safe to drink before it becomes contaminated and should be treated?

[@SpeirOutdoors]

lol Dave u just became my favorite troll.

[@DavidHSmith74]

@@SpeirOutdoors lol. Bumping the ole algorithm. Seriously though, I know it’s impossible to know for sure how long it takes, but would you drink from a fresh puddle if it was at least clear. I think I would in a pinch, but I wouldn’t recommend it because who knows what it drained through to get to the puddle.

[@DavidHSmith74]

You can’t say gypsy!!! lol!