Water and Sun

Drinking Water

In many countries, tap water is hardly drinkable. Beyond relying solely on bottled water or having to boil water to purify it, other solutions exist to make water potable or at least safe.

Micropur (and similar)

These are products or tablets for purifying water. While useful for certain hikes, most of the time you’ll find they’re not needed much (perhaps in some hotels if you don’t have bottled water on hand). Still, since they take up little space and last a long time, it’s worth carrying them. Opt for tablets when possible.

Note that Micropur Forte Dccna is the only product that provides quick access to potable water (eliminates bacteria, viruses, protozoa, etc.) and keeps it safe in a flask thanks to silver ions (water remains drinkable for up to 6 months).

Expect to pay around 15 € for a box of 100 tablets (usable for 5 years), which can disinfect 100 litres of water. For reference, Micropur also comes in powder or liquid form to purify 20 litres of water at once.

Filter Straws and Filter Bottles

Filter Straw

It looks like a long pencil, and you suck water through it to purify it (though this system doesn’t necessarily eliminate all viruses). Handy for hikes or if you don’t want to wait for other products to take effect. A bit gimmicky, though.

Priced at around 25 €, weighs 20 to 30 g, designed for 400 to 500 litres, and lasts about a year.

Filter Bottle

You can also find filter bottles (0.6 or 1-litre capacity) on the market, allowing you to drink water instantly from a fountain, well, lake, or stream. Fill the bottle, squeeze, and drink—the 3-stage filter removes bacteria, amoebas, giardia, and even viruses. Priced at around 55 €.

Sun Hazards

Protecting Yourself from the Sun

• See the article in the "Health and Travel" guide

Sunburns and other issues mean you should protect yourself from the sun by limiting exposure and, most importantly, using protection...

Sunscreen/Products

Always useful to pack—even for those who aren’t sun-sensitive—in small sizes for the beach, mountains, or many other destinations. Choose the right SPF for your skin and the environment (desert, altitude, etc.). There are also "after-sun" products. Note that dehydration tests (8 € for 3) and instant ice packs (around 4 €) can help reduce the effects of heatstroke.

For Your Eyes

Sunglasses with a Hard Case

And optionally a strap. Essential for travel. Choose good-quality sunglasses for water or snow environments.

Also for Vision

Bring a spare pair of glasses or disposable contact lenses with solution. Always use a hard case to protect your glasses better.