Grayl UltraPress Water Purifier Review
A 16.9-oz water bottle that filters and purifies your water while you travel or Backpack
August 8, 2026
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Our verdict
The Grayl UltraPress is a rigid, on-the-go, filter-and-purifier bottle built for travel scenarios where water quality is questionable without buying a separate filtration system. We tested it across different travel situations, such as airport refills, remote fishing trips, daypack carry, and stops in places where tap water quality was unknown.
It worked really well in situations like filling from a sketchy tap or hotel sink within seconds, and the press mechanism works with minimal effort. Once purified, we never worried about leaks during transit or in a bag with our camera gear. It is compact enough for a backpack side pocket or can be clipped to a carabiner to hang from the straps of a cross-body bag.
The only major trade-off is that the filter needs to be replaced after 300 cycles (or 40 gallons), which is typical for most filters that last between 30 and 60 gallons. However, for travelers heading to areas with unreliable water, we think the UltraPress is one of the best travel bottles to add to your carry-on and as part of your adventure travel packing list.
Grayl UltraPress Filter and Purifier Bottle
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Grayl UltraPress Purifier Specifications
Price: $90
Capacity: 16.9 oz
Empty weight: 12.5 oz
Dimensions (full): 9.75" H x 2.95" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: Yes
Filter lifespan: 300 cycles/40 gallons
What it removes: Waterborne pathogens (99.99% of viruses, 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.9% of protozoan cysts), including Rotavirus, Hepatitis A, Norovirus, Giardiasis, Cryptosporidium, E. Coli, Cholera, Salmonella, Dysentery, and more
Replacement filter cost: $32
Insulated: No
Material: Made from BPA-free polypropylene #5, food-grade silicone, TPE, and ABS food-grade plastic
Mouth width: Wide
Lid/valve type: Screw cap
Leak-proof: Yes
Fits standard cup holder: Yes
Dishwasher safe: Hand wash recommended
BPA-free: Yes
Comparison table
| Water Bottle | Capacity | Weight | Material | Insulated | Fits Cup Holder | Leakproof | Collapsible | Filter | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grayl UltraPress Purifier | 16.9 fl oz | 12.5 oz | Polypropylene | -- | ✔ | ✔ | -- | ✔ | $90 |
| Grayl GeoPress Purifier | 24.0 fl oz | 15.9 oz | Polypropylene | -- | -- | ✔ | -- | ✔ | $100 |
| Grayl GeoPress Ti Purifier | 24.0 fl oz | 20.1 oz | Titanium | -- | -- | ✔ | -- | ✔ | $220 |
| Ocean Bottle Peak GO | 24.0 fl oz | 16.1 oz | Stainless steel | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | -- | -- | $42 |
Best for
Carry-on travel
Daily use in places with uncertain water quality
Frequent travelers
Outdoor adventures with easy access to water sources, such as hiking, backpacking, and bikepacking
What we liked
Easy fill-up with the wide opening on the bottle
Simple purification process of the press-down mechanism
Intuitive and easy to figure out
The bottle handle is comfortable for hand carry even for an extended period of time
What could be better
It could be better if the screw cap were connected to the bottle lid so it can’t be accidentally misplaced or fall during fill-ups (this feature is in the larger 24-oz water bottle)
How we tested
We tested the Grayl UltraPress at airport terminals, on flights, and on full days exploring a city. On fishing trips where clean water wasn't guaranteed, it gave us extra peace of mind, and we even filled it from a hotel sink. After each trip, it was easy to take apart, clean thoroughly, and pack away for the next adventure.
We also tested it alongside other water bottles, filters, and purifiers to compare features, like how easily it travels, how intuitive it is to use, the flow rate, and more.
We also tested the Grayl UltraPress alongside other water bottles, filters, and purifiers in our Best Hiking Water Bottles and Best Backpacking Filters and Purifiers guides, and our upcoming Best Travel Water Bottles guide.
Performance in the field
Packability
The Grayl UltraPress bottle fits comfortably in carry-on luggage, a standard car cup holder, and the side pocket of most backpacks. You can even clip it to a purse or sling using a carabiner on the bottle handle. We used it both in a backpack side pocket and handheld while traveling on a plane and during a fishing trip.
Leakproof-ness
The bottle is leak-proof when placed horizontally in a bag and upside down in the side pocket or a backpack. We even placed it upside down in a backpack to test its leak-proofness.
Ease of filling and drinking
It is easy to use in a hotel sink, which we tested multiple times on a trip, as well as at water fountains due to its wide mouth opening, and is chug-able with the fully screw-out mouthpiece. This bottle doesn’t have a straw.
Portability and carry
At full capacity, the bottle weighs 29.4 oz and can be comfortably carried all day. We also tested how well it fit into the side pocket of multiple backpacks as well as standard cup holders in rental cars.
Durability
All Grayl bottles are built for rugged outdoor adventures and when packed in suitcases and carry-on luggage. The lid and mouthpiece are also durable even after months of use, and the filter lasts for up to 40 gallons of filtered water. We filled and filtered water more than 15 times over the course of our testing and didn’t notice any wear and tear.
Taste and material performance
The bottle has no plastic or silicone taste even when outdoors in extremely high heat (105 degrees F), as we encountered during a fishing trip, and there was no odor retention.
Filter and purifier performance
The flow rate is less than eight seconds, and it is easy to use. It is especially useful in real-world situations where tap water quality is questionable, as it removes waterborne pathogens and viruses. A water filter removes contaminants and microplastics, which is ideal for hiking and camping in North America. A water purifier also eliminates viruses and is a safer choice for international travel or anywhere water may be contaminated.
Features
The Grayl UltraPress bottle has a rigid, sturdy body that is durable enough for travel and outdoor use without adding unnecessary bulk.
Its integrated filter, housed inside the bottle, eliminates the need for a separate purification device.
A leak-proof screw cap gives a secure seal even when placed horizontally or upside down.
The bottle is made from silicone and BPA-free polypropylene for a lightweight yet durable construction.
A wide screw-top mouth opening makes it easy to fill from sinks, fountains, and natural water sources.
Despite its rugged build, the lightweight construction makes it comfortable to carry all day, whether clipped to a backpack, tucked into a side pocket, or held by hand.
Brand and product sustainability, corporate ethics, and warranty
All Grayl bottles carry a 10-year warranty on workmanship and materials plus free returns. The BPA-free bottles are made in China while the filter cartridges are made in the USA. Grayl is also a 1% for the Planet member, donating 1%+ of sales to environmental causes and supporting groups like the Conservation Alliance, Charity: Water, All Hands and Hearts, Soul River, and Outdoor Afro.
Should you buy the Grayl UltraPress travel water bottle?
Buy if:
You travel with carry-on only
You want water filtration more than you need a larger bottle capacity
You want a reliable bottle for flights and daily carry when you travel
Skip if:
You prioritize insulation
You want one that is collapsible due to space restrictions
You don’t need filtration or purification
Where to buy
The Grayl UltraPress Filter and Purifier Bottle is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership (can be same-day delivery in major metropolitan cities)
Backcountry
Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent
Advice on where to buy
In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI.
Similar travel water bottles
Grayl UltraPress Purifier Vs. Grayl GeoPress Purifier
Price: $100
Capacity: 24 oz
Empty weight: 15.9 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.4" H x 3.4" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: Yes; cartridge
The Grayl UltraPress and Grayl GeoPress use the same purifier technology, so both protect against viruses, bacteria, protozoa, microplastics, and many chemicals. The biggest differences between the two are size and capacity.
The UltraPress holds 16.9 ounces and is lighter and more compact, while the GeoPress holds 24 ounces, making it better for longer outings or if you want to purify more water at once. The UltraPress also fits more easily into backpack side pockets and standard cup holders, whereas the GeoPress is bulkier but requires fewer refill stops.
If you prioritize portability for travel, day hikes, and everyday carry, choose the UltraPress. Opt for the GeoPress if you're heading on longer hikes, international trips, or other adventures where you'll need larger volumes of purified water between refills.
Grayl GeoPress Purifier
Grayl UltraPress Purifier Vs. Grayl GeoPress Ti Purifier
Price: $220
Capacity: 24 oz
Empty weight: 20.1 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.12" H x 3.3" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: Yes; cartridge
Compared with the Grayl GeoPress Ti, the Grayl UltraPress is the more compact and travel-friendly option, while the GeoPress Ti is designed for more demanding backcountry adventures.
Both use Grayl’s purifier technology to remove viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and other contaminants. The UltraPress holds 16.9 ounces as compared to 24 ounces of the GeoPress Ti. The UltraPress is lighter and easier to pack for flights, city travel, day hikes, and everyday carry, while the GeoPress Ti’s larger titanium body adds durability and lets it function as a cook vessel in the backcountry.
Choose the UltraPress if you want a lightweight purifier that fits seamlessly into your travel routine, and choose the GeoPress Ti if you need a rugged, multi-use system for backpacking, camping, and remote adventures where you want to carry fewer pieces of gear.
Grayl GeoPress Ti Purifier
Grayl UltraPress Purifier Vs. Ocean Bottle Peak GO
Price: $42
Capacity: 24 oz
Empty weight: 16.1 oz
Dimensions (full): 10.8" H x 3.0" diameter
Collapsible: No
Filter: No
The Ocean Bottle Peak GO serves a very different purpose as compared to the Grayl UltraPress. It is an insulated everyday hydration bottle rather than a water purifier.
The Peak GO holds 24 ounces, has triple-wall insulation, and a flip-lid straw designed for easy sipping on commutes, hikes, workouts, and city exploring. On the other hand, the UltraPress is built for purifying questionable water sources on the go.
Choose the Ocean Bottle Peak GO if you primarily need a durable, sustainable bottle for carrying clean water throughout the day, and choose the Grayl UltraPress if you travel to places where you are unsure of the water quality or need extra purification.
Ocean Bottle Peak GO
Why you should trust us / About the author
The author, Karthika Gupta, is an adventure travel writer with over 25 years of adventure travel experience. She has hiked on all seven continents and loved every minute of it. She has even completed Highlander UAE and Fjallraven Chile, along with hundreds of miles in the Indian Himalayas. She covers outdoor gear, small-group adventure travel, and hiking/camping trends for national and international publications, blending real experience with practical advice.
Her work is grounded in miles hiked, boots tested, and a belief that everyone belongs in the outdoors regardless of gear and experience—you don’t need to overpack or overcomplicate to have a meaningful adventure. She tested this Grayl UltraPress while traveling to Oregon on a fishing trip where she filled up water in airport water fountains, hotel room sinks, water spouts on a reservation, and a stream. She also borrowed an older version of Grayl GeoPress during a backpacking trip in Patagonia a couple of years ago.
Her previous piece focused on an Adventure Travel Checklist.
You can find more of her adventures on her Instagram @karthikagupta or her website.
