A look at the American Red Cross Steripen UltraLight UV Water Purifier for Backpacking, Camping & Survival. 

The Steripen UltraLight is a compact, lightweight alternative to more traditional camping & backpacking water filters.  Instead of using a filter, the Steripen uses ultraviolet light to kill any bacteria, cysts and other harmful microorganisms.  Unlike most backpacking & survival water filters, Steripen also eliminates viruses.

In this video, we’ll go over the pros and cons of the Steripen UltraLight, versus traditional filter based water purification systems.  I’ll also demonstrate how to use a Steripen, frequently asked questions, water bottle options, common myths and concerns, and what the various indicator lights mean.

Specs and Features, as per the Manufacturer

• SteriPEN ultra-violet lamp destroys over 99.9% of bacteria, viruses and protozoa
• American red cross ultralight UV purifier quickly purifies 1.0L of water in only 90 seconds.
• Easy to use, one-button operation provides 8,000 treatments producing up to 8,000 liters of purified water
• Compact, lightweight at only 2.6 oz
• American red cross ultralight UV purifier can be recharged using its USB port

Other Gear Seen

• GORUCK GR1 Backpack
• Sealskinz Ultragrip Waterproof Gloves
• Notch classic Multi-cam Operator Cap
• Nalgene 1 Liter Wide Mouth Water Bottle
• Forty Below Cold Weather Expedition Water Bottle