Originally Posted by
X-LinkedRider
Get a katadyn water filter. That and the Jetboil, were the 2 best things I bought for tour. I do have experience in the woods off the bike so, it helps but Clean water and Hot water are the two most important things you need with the possibility of no civilization for a day or two.
The following is just one guys opinion, but I think it is worth considering.
The filter's value on tour varies widely depending on where you tour. I don't think it makes sense to take one on a Pacific Coast tour. I did really appreciate having a filter last year in the Sierras though. The best thing about it was that we had long hot stretches, but nice ice cold snow melt streams. It sure was nice to have cold water once in a while. That said on the coast it isn't likely to be terribly hot and tap or bottled water is pretty frequently available.
The Jet Boil's forte is boiling water quickly and with minimal fuel usage. That may be what some people want/need, but on most tours fuel is readily available frequently. If carrying fuel for longer periods the Jet Boil might save weight. I'd rather just buy fuel in smaller quantities more frequently. The OP's choice of an alcohol stove supports that style nicely. Personally I'd rather use a pop can stove rather than a Trangia, but that is another story.