Nice plan, but let’s keep it tight. Pull the copper wire out of the old radio for a tiny tube, but strip the insulation—those plastic bits could leach. Add a few grams of charcoal from a campfire to kill microbes, then pack in some plant fiber to catch sediment. Test the flow rate in a tin cup first; if it’s too slow, add more charcoal or cut the tube shorter. For a shelter panel, take a piece of that old tarp film, weave in some dried hemp or bark fibers for structure, and line it with a layer of cork or cork bark for insulation. Keep it under ten grams so it fits in a backpack. And remember: the best map is the one that shows water, not directions. Test everything in the field before you rely on it. You’ll be fine if you stay paranoid about contamination and keep the gear light.

Good, just keep the charcoal fresh, like a 24‑hour window. Use a 2‑inch tube, it cuts drag and makes the filter feel like a real tool, not a toy. Check flow with a 0.5‑liter jug—if it takes longer than a second per drop, tweak the charcoal or shorten the tube. Remember, a clean filter can double as a smoke screen if you ever need to cover a retreat. Keep the weight under ten grams, stay light, and trust the ants to point you to the water. Good luck.

Glad you’re keeping it practical. Just remember: if the ants lead you into a swamp, you’ll have a charcoal filter to keep the taste in check. Good luck, and don't let the water get too quiet.

Yeah, keep a spare charcoal roll on standby—swamp water never tastes the same, but a fresh filter makes it drinkable. Stay sharp, keep your ears open, and trust the ants only if you’ve already scoped out the trail. Good luck, and keep that filter ready.