ProOne Traveler+ Review: Lab Analysis & Hands-On Testing

Full Analysis of the ProOne Traveler+ with G2.0 5″ Filter

Filtration: 1.38/5.00

The ProOne Traveler+ with the G2.0 5” filter scored 1.38/5.00 for filtration. How? Most importantly, it achieved very poor results in our 2024 lab testing though the filtered water tasted and smelled perfectly clean. Plus, the system has no NSF/ANSI certifications for contaminant reduction. While it has extensive third-party testing for 240+ contaminants, at least some was not over the full filter life, and the filter size used in that testing (5” vs 7”) was not specified.

1. Lab Results: 1.75/5.00

In our lab test comparing an unfiltered and a filtered tap water sample, the ProOne Traveler+ could remove 5 undesirable impurities and contaminants to below the minimum detection level (so essentially to 100%): chlorine, bromoform, chloroform, copper, and uranium.

The following substances remained in our water (note: in our view, most concentration increases are generally due to leaching, although natural fluctuations cannot be ruled out):

• Bromodichloromethane was reduced by 76%. ProOne’s third-party test data claims 98.60% bromodichloromethane reduction.
• Dibromochloromethane decreased by 81%. ProOne’s third-party test data claims >99.90% dibromochloromethane (chlorodibromomethane) reduction.
• Barium increased by 125%. At 0.09 ppm it was 7.78x lower than the strictest barium health guideline we could find (0.7 ppm, EWG). Associated effects above that guideline are harm to the kidneys and cardiovascular system. ProOne’s third-party test data claims 99.00% barium reduction.
• Boron decreased by 33%.
• Lithium wasn’t reduced at all. That said, it was already at the lowest detectable level (0.01 ppm) in the unfiltered water sample, and because the lab reported lithium only in 0.01 ppm increments, reduction could only be calculated as either 0% or 100%.
• Strontium decreased by 30%.
• Nitrate decreased by 24%. ProOne’s test data claims 98.20% reduction of nitrates.
• Fluoride was reduced by a minimum of 67% and up to 99%. ProOne’s test data claims 97.50% sodium fluoride reduction.

Aside from contaminant reduction, we found the following substances in our filtered water that were not present in the unfiltered water:

• Benzene – At 0.72 ppb, it was 4.80x higher than the strictest benzene health guideline we could find (0.15 ppb, California OEHHA). Associated effects above that guideline include an increased risk of cancer, especially leukemia. ProOne’s test data reports >99.90% benzene reduction.

Side note: We also tested another ProOne filter element, the G2.0 M, in the ProOne pitcher, which we discuss in more detail in our best water filter pitchers guide. Interestingly, we had potential leaching of benzene in this model as well.

Lab Results Chart

Non-Potable Water

We have not yet tested the ProOne Traveler+ with a non-potable water source. This evaluation is not planned, as the G2.0 filter element is no longer being sold.

2. NSF/ANSI Certifications and Other Test Data

The ProOne Traveler+ has no NSF/ANSI certifications for contaminant reduction.

While this system has extensive third-party testing against NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401, NSF protocol P231, and other non-NSF/ANSI standards for 240+ contaminants, at least some was not performed over the full filter life. In addition, the filter size used in that testing (5” vs 7”) was not specified, so it is unclear whether the test data applies to the G2.0 5” filter used in our analysis.

Reported reduction rates include:

• Dozens of VOCs (95.70-99.90%+)
• Dozens of semi-volatiles (97.40-99.60%)
• Free chlorine (>99.90%)
• Chloramines (>99.90%)
• Cyanide (>99.90%)
• Lead (>99.90%)
• Arsenic 3 and 5 combined (99.70%)
• Aluminum (98.00%)
• Antimony (>99.90%)
• Beryllium (>99.90%)
• Chromium 3 and 6 combined (98.70%)
• Mercury (>99.90%)
• Selenium (>99.90%)
• Vanadium (>99.90%)
• Pesticides (85.00-100.00%)
• Herbicides (92.20-99.90%)
• Nitrates (98.20%)
• Sodium fluoride (97.50%)
• Emerging contaminants plus other pharmaceuticals (86.30-99.90%+)
• Radiologicals (81.60-84.10%)
• Microplastics (>99.999%)

Reduction rates are per the official performance data sheet.

Non-Potable Water

The ProOne Traveler+ does not carry NSF/ANSI certifications for microbiological reduction, but it does have third-party testing for germ removal, some of which conforms to the rigorous NSF protocol P231.

The ProOne website claims, “You can filter city and well tap, lake, stream, rain, and river water.” Plus, the official test data sheet states, “The ProOne-G2.0 filter qualifies as a microbiological water purifier set forth by the NSF protocol P231 for 50 gallons.”

Microbial reduction rates (calculated averages, in accordance with NSF P231) include:

• Bacteria (Klebsiella, >99.9999%)
• Viruses (Rotavirus & Poliovirus, >99.99%)
• Parasites (Giardia, >99.90%)

Note: the NSF protocol P231 uses representative organisms from each category – e.g., Klebsiella for bacteria – to act as a surrogate for the removal of similar microbes. Based on these test results, the ProOne should be effective at widespread reduction of other enteric bacteria, for example. The same is true for waterborne viral or parasitic pathogens.

In addition, >99.999% reduction was observed for several other bacteria and parasites, though these assays were not performed according to any cited NSF/ANSI standard or NSF protocol. It is also unclear to what volume the G2.0 filters were tested for these additional pathogens.

3. Filtration Process

The ProOne Traveler+ G2.0 filter has two main components:

1. The outer silver-infused ceramic shell performs mechanical filtration, acting like a sieve to remove solid, undissolved particulates such as dirt or rust. Silver is often added to inhibit microbial growth and support the hygiene of the filter.
2. The coconut shell granular activated carbon core removes things like bad tastes and odors, chlorine/chloramine, disinfection byproducts and other organics, as well as certain metals like mercury and lead.

4. Taste and Odor Test

In our test, the filtered water was odorless and had a perfectly clean taste.

Usability: 4.06/5.00

Note: We conducted usability testing of this system using a single filter element, then normalized the results to two elements for better comparability with other tested gravity filter systems.

The ProOne Traveler+ achieved a usability score of 4.06/5.00, based on its performance in the following categories:

1. Initial system assembly including filter priming (1.00/1.00)
2. Everyday use (2.86/3.50)
3. Filter replacements (0.20/0.50)

1. Initial Setup & Filter Priming: 1.00/1.00

Assembling the ProOne Traveler+ system is easy. The instruction booklet provides clear directions for each step, though it contains fewer illustrations than some of the other systems we tested.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the setup procedure:

1. Wash your hands, then wash and scrub the stainless steel components with either dish soap or 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water using a sponge or soft cloth. Rinse and air dry.
2. Using dish soap, wash and scrub the plastic components and allow to air dry.
3. Hold filter by blue base and rinse the ceramic portion under cool water for 2 minutes while scrubbing with the abrasive side of the provided sponge. Do not permit water to enter the stem. Rinse well.
4. Attach knob to lid by inserting the screw with washer from the underside; tighten using a screwdriver.
5. Remove plastic from stainless steel washers and place a SS washer and white nylon washer onto the threaded spigot stem.
6. Insert stem through hole of lower reservoir, then add another white nylon washer and SS washer onto the stem. Screw on nut and tighten using the included spigot wrench.
7. Place rubber washer on filter stem, then insert stem through hole of upper chamber. Secure with a wing nut.
8. Repeat for the other filter (if using); otherwise, plug the remaining open hole with a rubber stopper.
9. Assemble system on non-slip mat: place upper chamber on lower chamber. Set on tank stand if using.
10. Ensure the spigot is in the off position, then add cool water into upper reservoir.
11. Process 2-3 upper chambers of water through the system, discarding each batch.
12. Now your system is ready to use.

2. Day-to-Day Use: 2.86/3.50

2.1 Speed & Water Capacity: 0.96/1.20

The ProOne Traveler+ with two G2.0 5” filters is generally suited for daily use, though on-demand filtering, which we define as 1 cup in <1 minute, takes a little patience. In our filtration speed tests, it filtered and dispensed 1 cup in ~3:16 min and 4 cups in ~18:50 min. As the system can only accommodate two parallel flow paths, there is no option to add additional filter elements to boost filtration speed, either.

Notably, the spigot sits above the bottom of the lower chamber, so the system must first process and collect ~39 oz of water over ~26:10 min before any water can be dispensed. Consequently, starting from an empty system, the total time to filter and dispense 1 cup was ~29:26 min, while dispensing 4 cups took ~45:00 min.

Requiring ~1:41 hours to fully filter and dispense the entire feed tank, the ProOne Traveler+ is certainly fast enough to handle 8-10 cup/hour thirst bursts for average US households, which we assume consist of 2.55-3.15 people.

Plus, dispensing filtered water from a full lower reservoir is extremely fast – we measured about 2.5 seconds for 1 cup.

The generous 1.82-gal (~29.1-cup) feed tank* and 2.15-gal (~34.4-cup) clean tank allow you to easily fill a 40-oz bottle or 2-quart pitcher from a single refill. Assuming 25.5–31.5 cups of daily water consumption for the average US households, we estimate 1–2 daily refills when filling the upper chamber to the top* – consistent with the other gravity water filters we tested.

However, actual refilling frequency will likely vary considerably depending on each household’s needs and preferences. Given the relatively slow filtration speed inherent to gravity systems, most users likely would not want to wait until the feed tank is empty and the clean water fully depleted before refilling. Realistically, it is more practical to top off the feed tank at strategic times, such as before heading out to work or before bed, so the longer wait time is less disruptive. However, this requires some ongoing judgment from the user to ensure that the added feed water volume does not cause the clean tank to overflow.

2.2 Dispensing: 1.00/1.00

Using a full clean tank, dispensing water is extremely fast and without splashing, unless the spout is fully opened very quickly. The handle twists smoothly, and there is no dripping after the pour.

Due to the spout height, the system must be placed at the counter edge to dispense, unless you use the included tank stand – this gives you another ~5.75″ of clearance to fit a glass underneath. That said, you still won’t be able to fit a standard 40-oz bottle or 2-quart pitcher under the spout, even with the added height from the stand.

Another caveat: dispensing the last 39 oz of water requires additional steps. The spigot sits slightly above the base of the clean tank, which means the last ~4.9 cups of water cannot be poured unless you are tilting the tank forward or manually ladle out the remaining water. However, this is a common limitation and applies to almost all gravity filters we tested.

2.3 Refilling & Size: 0.60/1.00

Refilling the ProOne Traveler+ is straightforward. Simply use a pitcher or other container to fill the upper chamber with water. There are no max fill lines, however, and instructions do not specify a fill amount.

The included lid fits loosely but still keeps your feed water well covered.

As the ProOne Traveler+ lacks a sight window or water level spigot (ProOne used to offer one) to gauge the amount of water in the clean tank, you are required to lift the upper chamber to monitor the clean water level. This can be a challenge depending on how much water it contains.

Measuring 8.8″x20″x10.2″ (WxHxD) including the lid’s knob and spigot, the ProOne Traveler+ doesn’t fit under most kitchen cabinets (18” clearance). Additionally, using the tank stand further increases the height.

At 7.6 lbs with two wet filters installed (excluding the stand), its weight is about average for the gravity systems we tested. Its footprint is also about average, occupying ~60.82 in² (~0.42 ft²).

2.4 Other: 0.30/0.30

The system comes with a protective, non-slip mat to prevent scratching or sliding on your counter tops (it can also be used with the tank stand).

2.5 Outdoor Use

The system seems sturdy enough for outdoor use thanks to its 304 stainless steel build.

Its stowed size of 8.8″x10.5″x8.8″ (WxHxD; knob and spigot removed) and 7.6-lb weight (with two wet filters installed, excluding the stand) are comparable to competing systems, making it a reasonably portable option as well.

3. Filter Replacements: 0.20/0.50

Filter replacements are simple as the cartridges are easily accessible in the upper chamber. However, there is no filter change indicator to alert you when it is time to change them.

Rated filter life is 900 gal or 6 months per filter element; 2 cartridges therefore have a combined water filtering capacity of 1,800 gal.

Assuming 500 gallons of yearly water consumption for the average household, we predict the frequency of your filter changes will be dictated by filter age rather than water consumption. Consequently, we predict you will have to replace the filters twice annually.

Costs: 4.00/5.00

Based on value for money, the ProOne Traveler+ including two G2.0 5” filters achieved a cost score of 4.00 out of 5.00, indicating it is priced about average for what it offers compared to competing systems (a score of 4.00 represents average value). Notably, its upfront price is slightly below average but its annual filter replacement costs are slightly above average compared to the other gravity filter systems we tested.

1. Upfront Price

As of March 6, 2026, the ProOne Traveler+ including two G2.0 filters is no longer available for purchase. When it was still in stock, it was priced at $292.90, which is slightly below the $384.81 average across all the tested gravity filter systems.

2. Long-Term Expenses for Filter Replacements

Based on 500 gallons consumption and an 1,800-gal or 6-month filter life for two filter cartridges, we estimate $272 in annual filter replacement costs, which is slightly above the $234.50 average across all the tested gravity filter systems.

3. Product Warranty

The ProOne Traveler+ comes with a long 5-year warranty on the stainless steel components. The filters are covered for 1 year.

4. Other Cost Factors

• No optional water level spigot or sight glass to enable easy monitoring of clean water level.
• Protective, non-slip mat keeps the system from sliding and scratching your countertops.

Additional

1. Construction

The 304 stainless steel tanks and spigot feel sturdy and well-built. The polished finish has a moderate shine that easily smudges. However, the ProOne Traveler+ also comes in a brushed finish that may be less susceptible to showing imperfections.

2. Cleanable filters

The ceramic filters may be cleaned by scrubbing with the provided abrasive sponge under cool running water. This removes mineral buildup which may slow filtration over time.

3. Size Options

ProOne gravity systems come in 2 different sizes: 2.25-gal (Traveler+) and 3.00-gal (Big+).

4. Frequent Customer Complaints

We read about customer service issues, bad taste/odor of the filtered water, extremely slow filtration, and leaking.

We did not experience these issues firsthand.

Bottom Line: Very Poor Filtration + No Longer Available (2.44/5.00)

Filtration weighted at 60%, and usability and cost at 20% each, the ProOne Traveler+ scored a final rating of 2.44 out of 5.00.

Filtration performance was very poor overall: the system completely removed no more than 5 contaminants in our lab tests. And while it produced filtered water that tasted and smelled perfectly clean, it has no NSF/ANSI-certified contaminants. It does have extensive third-party testing for contaminant reduction, including various microbes under the strict NSF P231 protocol, but at least some was not performed to full filter life. Plus, it showed evidence of potential benzene leaching at a level that was 4.80x above the strictest health guideline.

On the flip side, the system’s usability is solid: it’s very easy to setup and the cleanable ceramic filters only need a quick scrub and rinse before installation. While the ProOne Traveler+ filters plenty of water, it’s not quite on-demand capable. Also, it’s maxed out with 2 filters, so you cannot add more elements to increase filtration speed.

Nevertheless, dispensing is extremely fast with a full clean tank – and there’s no splashing as long as the spigot is opened slowly. The included tank stand makes short work of pouring into a cup, and the provided non-slip rubber mat ensures the system won’t slide around on your counter.

Maintenance is simple with easy filter changes. However, refilling is less practical as there’s no optional water level spigot or sight glass to help monitor clean tank reserves – you’ll have to lift the upper chamber to see how much clean water remains.

Build quality is robust thanks to its durable 304 stainless steel tanks (stowable) and spigot, which should easily weather tougher outdoor settings. Plus, the 5-year system warranty is reassuring.

While it was available, upfront price was slightly below average, while ongoing filter replacement costs were slightly above average. Despite average overall costs and solid usability, the ProOne’s disappointing filtration performance means we wouldn’t recommend this system even if it still was on the market.