Those filtration systems are a smart idea. Whoever invented them is a genious.

I'm glad to see a hydration system, with a filter. I really didn't care for the plastic taste. Also welcome back we've missed your blog.

I am from northern Arizona and i agree the plastic taste is not nice but if you use those hydration packs enough they don't taste bad any more. Especially if you clean them regularly and when you are hiking in the desert there isn't a lot of places to fill up those ones with filters. I hike every weekend at least 1 and up to 3 days a week to try and stay in shape it isn't easy but staying hydrated is really the key to being safe and happy in the deserts where i hike regularly.