Who it is for
Good fit
- Harsh conditions where a more durable, fold-resistant flask is wanted
- Hiking, fishing, paddling, trail running and mountain biking
- City trips and overseas travel with a collapsible flask for refills
Key specifications
| Article no. | 8021403 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1.0 L |
| Weight | 85 g |
| Flask construction | Double-layer Hydrapak SoftFlask for harsh conditions |
| Dimensions | 273 x 107 x 78 mm |
| Stage 1 filter | 0.1 micron EZ-Clean hollow fiber membrane |
| Stage 1 effective against | Protozoa, bacteria, microplastics |
| Stage 1 capacity | Up to 1,000, depending on water quality L |
| Stage 2 filter | Replaceable activated carbon |
| Stage 2 effect | Improves taste, reduces odor and chlorine |
| Carbon capacity | Up to 200, or 3 months after first use, whichever comes first L |
| Maximum flow rate | 2; the activated carbon limits the flow L/min |
| Flask | HydraPak TPU SoftFlask, PVC and BPA free |
| Thread | 42 mm |
FAQ
What does the activated carbon in the BeFree AC do?
The product description says the activated carbon improves taste and reduces odors and chlorine; it is combined with a 0.1 micron hollow fiber membrane that removes bacteria, protozoa and microplastics, at 2 L per minute.
Do I have to use the activated carbon in the BeFree AC?
The manufacturer's page says you can leave out the activated carbon when the source water already tastes good, such as clean mountain stream water. To improve the chlorine taste of tap water, add the activated carbon pad.
How long does each of the two BeFree AC cartridges last?
The hollow fiber membrane cartridge lasts about 1,000 liters; the activated carbon lasts about 200 liters or 3 months after first use. Both depend on source water quality.
Can the BeFree AC filter viruses?
The product description does not list viruses. The listed targets are bacteria, protozoa, cysts, sediment and microplastics, and it also improves taste and reduces odors and chlorine. It should not be relied on for virus protection.
How do I clean the BeFree AC cartridge?
When the flow slows, fill the pouch with water, reattach the cartridge and shake it vigorously, or hold the cartridge and swish it in water to clean it; untreated source water can be used, and no backflushing or tools are needed. However, the outlet (mouthpiece) must not touch untreated water; keep it clean after cleaning. Hold the pouch end lightly while swishing — do not squeeze the filter itself. Do not rinse it horizontally under tap water, or touch the hollow fiber membrane with fingers or tools.
How does the BeFree AC reinforced model differ from the AC Bottle 0.9L?
Both have a dual-layer cartridge. The reinforced model is a 1.0-liter double-layer soft pouch at about 85 g; the Bottle 0.9L is a PP bottle at about 104 g that stands on its own and can be squeezed to dispense water.
How heavy and how large is the BeFree AC 1.0L?
Capacity is 1.0 liter, weight is 85 g, and size is 107 x 78 x 273 mm. It uses a double-layer Hydrapak SoftFlask TPU pouch with a flip cap and an integrated handle.
Can the mouthpiece, cap and cartridge of the BeFree AC be replaced individually?
The product description lists a modular design with a universal 42 mm threaded connector, so the mouthpiece, cap and cartridge are all replaceable. The manufacturer's spare-parts page lists a replacement cartridge, activated carbon (3-pack) and silicone mouthpieces.























