Strategies for Defecating in Forested Environments (During Camping, Hiking, or Backpacking)
Alright, buckle up, mate! Here's the lowdown on how to poop in the great outdoors without causing a stink.
10 Ways to Properly Poop in the Woods
1. Embrace the Great Outdoors
Let's face it, it's natural! Your body don't care where it is, and holding it in? That ain't no fun! Find a nice, secluded spot and start digging that cathole. Give yourself some time - it'll be cleaner, easier, and less stressful.
2. Know the Rules
Know what you're getting into, and follow the guidelines from Leave No Trace. That means keeping your cat hole at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites. And let's not forget about toilet paper - rules may vary from place to place, so pack it out if you need to!
3. Prep Your Poop Kit
There's no shortage of supplies when you're in the wilderness, but there are some essentials for a smooth experience. We're talking toilet paper (or natural alternatives), a sealable plastic bag, a trowel, hand sanitizer, and anything else you might need!
4. Choose Your Spot Wisely
Location is key! Find a spot that's at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and campsites, and choose rich, loose soil and sunlight. Cover is also a plus for some privacy!
5. Dig that Cathole
Dig a hole about 4-6 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep. If the ground's too rocky, find a flat rock to lift. In some places, digging not allowed? No worries! Pack everything out - using a WAG bag or similar system.
6. Do the Deed
Find your comfy position - it's all about stability. The squat, the throne, the tripod... give 'em a try! Test your stance before committing - remember, comfort is key!
7. Clean Up
Clean up like a pro! Use toilet paper, natural materials, wet wipes, or a backcountry bidet. No matter what, have your cleanup items ready before you start.
8. Cover Up
Alright, you're cleaned up now. Fill the cat hole with dirt, press it down, and cover it up. Voila! That spot looks like you were never there. Tidy up, mate!
9. Good Backcountry Hygiene
Keep yourself clean and healthy! Always sanitize after bathroom breaks, wash your hands at least once a day, dispose of grey water properly, and pack a towel for drying.
10. Be Prepared for Special Circumstances
Planning ahead is key! In case of packing out waste, special circumstances like middle-of-the-night bathroom runs, or period products, be prepared and follow local rules!
Why Should We Follow These Steps?
Proper disposal of human waste helps keep wild places clean and healthy. Not only does it help protect water sources and prevent the spread of disease, but it also spares others from unpleasant experiences. And hey, in sensitive environments, your impact matters even more - let's help protect our beloved wild areas for future generations!
- Packing a gear essentials kit for outdoor-living, including items like toilet paper, a trowel, and hand sanitizer, ensures a pleasant camping and backpacking experience in nature.
- Pursuing an adventure outdoors, whether it's hiking on trails or exploring the great outdoors, requires following the guidelines of outdoor-living, such as digging catholes and properly disposing of waste, to maintain the health and cleanliness of the environment.
- Adopting a lifestyle of outdoor-living and camping means respecting and preserving nature, even when it comes to basic needs like using the restroom, by following Leave No Trace principles and being mindful of water sources, trails, and campsites.
- When living the outdoor-living lifestyle, it's essential to choose the right spot for a restroom break, selecting a location away from water sources, trails, campsites, in rich, loose soil and sunlight, for both personal comfort and the health of the environment.
- In some cases, the rules for disposing of human waste may vary due to local regulations or special circumstances, such as middle-of-the-night bathroom runs or using period products, making it important to be prepared and informed when embracing the outdoor-living lifestyle.
){kind=link}