Hi, II plan to travel to Asia. Is this filter suitable for such extreme conditions+ everyday use ? I mean, is this filter all bacteria resistant?
Don't want to try trial +error style.
Thank you !

There are many pros and cons to the AutoFlow system. Hollow Fiber, the media used in the filter element, is relatively new and is best suited for clean water that doesn't have a lot of sediment or other types of clogging agents (ie. Humic Acid, Blue/Green Algae, Glacial Silt, sewage, etc.). As you use this filter, it is also imperative that you consistently and with regularity back flush which requires regular maintenance. You need to make sure this filter isn't thrown around or abused. It is susceptible to damage if handled roughly. The best part about this filter though is there is no work. You simply fill up the bag and watch the water filter at almost 2 liters per minute (incredibly fast). Of course this is when the filter's brand new and will inevitably slow down over time. If you are thinking about purchasing the AutoFlow, I would also recommend getting an additional Filter Element just in case. The filter element will take out any bacteria, protozoa, or pathogenic particle that you will run into (anything larger than 0.2 microns will be filtered out which includes dirt, bacteria, protozoa). Viruses are not mechanically removed, but must be treated with a chemical. Because your are going to a 3rd world country, I would recommend taking a bottle of the Sweetwater Purification Solution as this will eliminate all viruses. Remember to only add the solution AFTER you've filtered the water... If you want a reliable, proven filter who's reputation has been built upon it's reliability, I would go with the MSR MiniWorks EX Filter. It's also 0.2 micron capable, lasts much longer than the AutoFlow, is cleanable (you actually take the element out and scrub it with a Scotchbrite pad that's included with the filter), can be field-maintained, and any chemicals (not heavy metals however) will be removed due to the carbon component located at the core of the filter element. It does require you to pump which equates to work, but if you want to be 100% absolutely sure, with no worries, of clean water, this is the pump to get. Either filter will get the water clean. The main issue is how sure do you want to be that in any situation in whatever circumstance you find yourself in you will have clean water. The AutoFlow is a great filter, but the MiniWorks EX is ultra-reliable in extreme conditions and everyday use. You may also want to consider the MSR MIOX Purifier. This is a tool used to create a chemical solution that will purify the water in about 30 minutes. It won't take anything out of the water, but will make it suitable to drink. It even takes most of the bad tastes from the water. All you need is salt and CR123 (lithium camera batteries) and will work flawlessly. It will purify large quantities of water and can also be used to sterilize fruits and vegetables, as well as clean minor cuts and scratches. It's only 3.5 ounces (w/ batteries) and is something you can totally rely on. One of it's best features is the fact that it will do large quantities of water much better than most filters. Because you are adding a purifying solution to the water, you aren't require to filter every drop which takes time and adds maintenance to the filter. If you think you'll need many gallons throughout the day, this is the best choice in my opinion. Bottom line: For mechanical water filters there are many options. The MSR AutoFlow is the most convenient and easy to use, but may not be the most reliable. The MSR Miniworks EX is ultra-reliable, but takes more work to get the water. The MSR MIOX is easy to use, very reliable, purifies the water but doesn't actually filter anything out. Perhaps the best thing to do is to get a combination of the MIOX and Filter. It's always good to have a backup...