Review: LifeSaver Wayfarer water purifier

I recently put the LifeSaver Wayfarer water purifier to the test, and let me tell you, this little device is a game-changer! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a weekend camper, or just someone who wants to be prepared for anything, the Wayfarer offers peace of mind in a truly portable package.

LifeSaver claims the Wayfarer is the only hiking water purifier fully tested to exceed NSF/ANSI P231 standards, meaning it removes bacteria, cysts, and viruses – something many portable filters can’t claim. As someone who’s always seeking out hidden waterfalls and remote trails, knowing I can safely drink from almost any source is a huge plus.

In this review, I’ll dive into my experience using the LifeSaver Wayfarer, covering everything from its ease of use and filtration performance to its overall value.

First Impressions: Compact and Convenient

When I first unboxed the LifeSaver Wayfarer, I was immediately struck by how lightweight and compact it is. It truly lives up to its “pocket-sized” claim. It comes in a handy little carry bag with a separate pocket to keep the hoses and other accessories organised. This is a nice touch, as it prevents everything from rattling around loose in my backpack. Speaking of backpacks, the Wayfarer easily fits in mine without taking up much space at all, which is essential for longer hikes and wild camps where every ounce counts.

Ease of Use: Surprisingly Simple

I’ll admit, I’m usually someone who meticulously reads instructions and watches “how-to” videos before using any new gear. But in a moment of spontaneity, I tossed the LifeSaver Wayfarer and its instructions into my backpack and headed out for a hike up Y Garn in Snowdonia.

It turned out to be a happy accident! When I came across a beautiful waterfall cascading down the mountainside, I decided to give the Wayfarer a go. To my surprise, assembling it was incredibly intuitive. Even without consulting the instructions, I had the purifier up and running in a matter of minutes. The parts fit together easily, and the whole process felt very straightforward.

Performance: Clean Water, No Fuss

I’ve always been a bit wary of stagnant water sources, so when I’m hiking, I tend to gravitate towards flowing water like waterfalls or streams. But to give the LifeSaver Wayfarer a thorough test, I decided to try it out with a variety of sources, including a waterfall (naturally!), a lake, and a slower-moving stream.

Taste Test:

One thing that really impressed me was the taste of the filtered water. Compared to some other water purifiers I’ve used in the past, the Wayfarer produced noticeably cleaner-tasting water. There was no lingering aftertaste, just pure, refreshing hydration.

Flow Rate:

Now, I know what you might be thinking: pumping water manually must be slower than those filter bottles you just dip in a stream. And you’re right, it is. But honestly, I was surprised by how quickly I was able to fill my 1-liter water bottle using the Wayfarer. The pumping action is smooth and efficient, and it didn’t take long to have a full bottle of safe drinking water ready to go.

Key Features: Built for Adventure

The LifeSaver Wayfarer is packed with features that make it a reliable and convenient companion for any outdoor enthusiast:  

• High-Capacity Filtration: With a 5,000-liter (1,320 US gallon) capacity, this purifier can provide clean drinking water for extended trips and adventures. That’s enough for months of daily use!  
• Dual-Stage Filtration: The Wayfarer doesn’t just remove bacteria and cysts; it also tackles viruses, thanks to its ultrafiltration technology. Plus, the replaceable activated carbon disc improves taste and odour by reducing chemicals and heavy metals.  
• Fast Flow Rate: Despite its compact size, the Wayfarer™ boasts an impressive initial flow rate of 1.4 litres per minute. You won’t be waiting around forever to quench your thirst.  
• Lightweight and Portable: Weighing in at just 323g (11.4 oz), the Wayfarer™ is easy to carry in your backpack or even your pocket.  
• User-Friendly Design: The rotating pump handle can be used comfortably with either hand, and the FailSafe technology ensures that no water can pass through once the filter membranes are blocked, keeping you safe.  
• Safe and Sustainable: The Wayfarer™ is BPA and BPS free, so you can be confident that your water is free from harmful chemicals.  

Pros and cons of the Lifesaver Wayfarer water purifier

Pros:

• Efficient Flow Rate: The Wayfarer offers a good flow rate, especially compared to some squeeze or gravity filters. Filling multiple water bottles for yourself or a group is relatively quick and easy.
• Improved Taste: The Wayfarer noticeably improves the taste of the water, removing any unpleasant flavours or odours. Say goodbye to that chlorine or “pond scum” taste!
• Extended Reach: The long hoses provide excellent reach, allowing you to access water sources that might be tricky to get to with a traditional filter bottle. Think shallow streams or awkward angles.
• Great Value: Considering its high level of filtration (viruses, bacteria, and cysts), durability, and long lifespan, the Wayfarer offers excellent value for the price.

Cons:

• Stability on Uneven Ground: Due to its design, the Wayfarer can be a bit tricky to balance on uneven ground while pumping. You might need to find a stable rock or platform to set it on.

Overall Verdict

The LifeSaver Wayfarer is an exceptional piece of gear that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone who spends a significant amount of time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, camping, backpacking, or travelling. It provides a reliable and sustainable way to access safe drinking water, no matter where your adventures take you.

While there are other water filtration options available, the Wayfarer stands out for its combination of portability, high-level filtration (including viruses!), ease of use, and long lifespan. Yes, there’s a bit of an investment upfront, but the peace of mind and convenience it offers truly justify the price tag.

If you’re looking for a dependable and portable water purifier that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the LifeSaver Wayfarer is an excellent choice.