When you're heading off grid, you need to know you'll have access to clean and drinkable water. That's why a caravan water filter is a must-have.
A caravan water filter is designed to remove or deactivate waterborne bacteria and viruses from the water. For a long time, caravanners haven't had many choices when it comes to water filters - but all that is changing and now there are lots of options that kill bacteria and viruses without the fuss of chemicals.
If you're in the market for a caravan water filter, read our guide:
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Do You Need A Caravan Water Filter?
It depends how long and how far off the grid you're planning on travelling, but in short - yes. Water safety is one of the most important parts of travelling in Australia. It's essential you have access to fresh, clean water wherever you go. You don't want to rely on filling up containers at taps, or buying water from stores. It will soon get frustrating and expensive!
The good news is that making sure your water is safe isn't difficult. All you need is the right water filter system. Sure, you could use tablets or hiking solutions, but really a caravan water filter system is the most convenient option if you're planning on caravanning for many years to come.
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Types Of Caravan Water Filter
If you're going down the caravan water filter route, there are two types to choose from:
Permanently Installed
These units are installed under your caravan or camper sink. They filter the water coming out of your water tank before it goes through your tap.
Purification is most effective at the point of use, which is why it's worth permanently fitting a filter after your pump or under your tap for the best result.
If you're looking for a filter to permanently install into your caravan, we highly recommend the Thirsty Nomad 5 in 1 Water Purifier.
The Thirsty Nomad uses the latest in water purification technologies without the need for power or chemicals. A 5-stage water treatment system purifies water and removes heavy metals and other contaminants. The filter boasts up to 20 times higher contaminant removal than granular carbon filters and meets Australian drinking water guidelines for E-Coli.
The filter is super compact and lightweight (only 590 grams), plus it's easy to install in your caravan tanks with the included Push Fitting Kit. You can install it horizontally or vertically.
For caravanners who don't want to worry about switching filters mid-trip, this filter is a great option. It lasts 7500 litres or 12 months before replacement is needed.
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Portable
A portable caravan water filter, or in-line filter, connects to your water hose, then filters the water from your hose going into your caravan/camper water tank.
It's a great way to remove any chlorine odours from your water and is super easy to store. They are designed to pop off when not in use, so you can carefully wind it up and store with your hose.
The Thirsty Nomad Tank Fill Water Purifier is great pick for a portable purifier. It features all the same benefits of the permanent filter, with the design of an in-line filter.
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Which Caravan Water Filter Brand?
Take a look at these top brands:
Shurflo:
Shurflo provides an RV & Marine Water Filtration Kit suitable for cold water only. It's a good, budget-friendly option if you want to make sure you have clean, great tasting water on your travels because it reduces the chlorine taste and odour from water.
The kit comes with mounting accessories, a disposable filter and a drinking water tap plus a 1.5 metre tube to make installation easy.
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B.E.S.T:
Another popular brand is B.E.S.T. They designed a water filter that can safely draw water from town, tank, creek or bore water and you can be confident that chemicals and sediment are removed and bacteria is destroyed. The filter is also reversible, which means you can flush away the dirt.
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Camec:
Camec's Thirsty Nomad Caravan Water Filters take water purification to a new level for caravanners.
When travelling Australia, you're going to encounter highly mineralised bore water, which will quickly clog a standard granular activated carbon filter. That's where the Thirsty Nomad water filters stand out above the rest.
They offer a way to treat the highly mineralised bore water and then purify your water and filter down to 0.01 microns.
Want to compare the results? Watch how it works in this video. You'll see the difference a Thirsty Nomad filter makes to the water compared to other options.
Installation and Care Tips
Choosing a water filter that’s simple to set up can save time and hassle. Inline filters are especially convenient since they attach directly to your caravan’s water hose or mains supply. It’s also worth checking if the filter continues to perform well after periods of inactivity. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, as some models need flushing or priming before use.
How to Install Different Filter Type
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Inline Filters – Connect the filter between the water source and the caravan inlet, making sure the flow direction matches the arrow on the filter. Tighten the connections and flush the system before drinking.
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Fixed/Plumbed Filters – Secure the filter in your plumbing setup, often under a sink or in a storage compartment. Attach the inlet and outlet hoses, inspect for leaks, and then turn the water on.
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Under-Sink Filters – Attach directly to the cold water line. Some systems include a dedicated tap for drinking water, which may need extra installation steps.
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Benchtop Filters – Fit the unit onto your existing tap with the supplied connectors. These are non-permanent and easy to remove when not needed.
Maintenance for Long-Term Performance
Keeping your filter in good shape ensures clean water over time. Key practices include:
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Flushing the filter before and after periods of non-use to prevent bacterial buildup.
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Replacing cartridges based on manufacturer recommendations—usually every 3–12 months, depending on usage and water quality.
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Backflushing reusable filters (if the system allows) to clear trapped debris and extend filter life.
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Regularly inspecting fittings and seals to spot leaks or wear.
Check out the permanent caravan water purifier or the tank fill water purifier depending on your preference.
Don't risk your health on dodgy water. Check out our range of caravan water filters today.
Psst: here's a hack to help will your water tanks, check out the stand at ease water filler.
DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
