You’re on the right track, but don’t get caught up in fancy gear. Just stack it right: start with a layer of gravel to catch big stuff, then sand for the fine grit, then charcoal for the taste and toxins, then another sand layer to pull out the charcoal’s last bite, finish with another gravel to hold everything together. Put a piece of cloth or a coffee filter on the bottom so nothing slides out. Keep the filter tight and check it often—water will find a way around a weak point. If you’re hunting charcoal, burn some dried leaves or wood, crush it, and let it cool. That’s all you need. Keep the filter clean, and you’ll have clean water without any fancy tech.