The Ultimate Guide to Dropping a Dime in the Wild
Strategies for Defecation in Woods (During Camping, Hiking, or Backpacking)
You've got to go, and there's no restroom in sight. Here's how to handle your business out in the wild like a pro - and keep the environment clean!
#1 Own It
Nature calls, and there's no shame in answering, even if it's not in the privacy of your own home. Remember, humans have been doing this for aeons - even before fancy flushable toilets were around. Embrace the great outdoors and make it work!
#2 Know the Rules
Before you hit the trails, take a peek at the Leave No Trace principles! Here are a few key rules to follow:
- Catholes should be at least 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide (dig smart!)
- Keep your cathole at least 200 feet away from water, trails, and campsites
- In some places, you'll need to pack out your toilet paper - so make sure you've got a sealable plastic bag handy!
#3 Prepare Your Kit
Get yourself set up for success with this handy kit:
- Toilet paper (or natural alternatives)
- Sealable plastic bag or WAG bag
- Trowel (make digging a breeze with a convenient tool like The Deuce)
- Hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap
- For women: a reusable Kula Cloth (keep peeing outdoors comfortable!)
#4 Choose the Right Spot
Pick the ideal location for your wild bathroom break. Follow these tips:
- Stay at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites
- Look out for rich, loose soil and a sunny spot
- Pick an area with some cover for privacy
- Choose higher ground, away from areas that collect water during rain
- Avoid obvious spots that could turn into a shared toilet zone in busy areas
- Consider digging a shared latrine in groups or for longer stays (if local rules allow)
#5 Dig the Perfect Cat Hole
Once you've found the perfect spot, it's time to dig out your cat hole. Use a trowel or digging tool to create a 6-inch deep hole with a 4-6 inch wide opening. In areas where digging isn't possible, use a waste bag and pack it all out!
#6 Assume the Position
Get comfy and get to it by choosing one of these tested-and-tried positions:
- The Squat: Feet shoulder-width apart, pants down, and squat low. Use one hand to pull your waistband forward.
- The Throne: Lean against a tree on a slight slope, feet planted, and squat with your thighs parallel to the ground.
- The Tripod: Grip a tree trunk, squat back, and use your arms for balance. Feet near the base of the tree for stability
- The Assist: Sit on the edge of a log or stump, rear hanging off, and use it as a seat. Make sure it's stable!
#7 Clean Up
With the deed done, don't rush the cleanup. Follow these steps:
- Use only what toilet paper you need - in some areas, you can bury unused paper, but in others, you'll need to pack it out
- Use leaves, smooth stones, or snow as natural alternatives to toilet paper (just remember, it takes a little getting used to!)
- Always pack out wet wipes, as they don't break down naturally
- Use a small water bottle as a bidet for a more hygienic rinse and no trace left behind!
#8 Cover It Up
Once you're all clean, it's time to cover up and disguise your cathole. Fill the hole with the original dirt, press it down firmly, cover the spot with leaves or natural materials, and sanitize your hands well.
#9 Practice Good Backcountry Hygiene
- Always sanitize after bathroom visits
- Use toilet paper, leaves, or natural materials for wiping
- If possible, rinse with water (avoid plants and lichen-covered rocks)
- Dry off with a small towel that dries fast
- Maintain good hygiene to stay healthy and protect the environment!
#10 Be Prepared for Special Circumstances
- Pack out all waste in special circumstances like high-traffic or sensitive areas
- In some places, women will need to pack out menstrual products
- For middle-of-the-night bathroom runs, use a pee bottle with a funnel to avoid any unnecessary spills!
By following these simple tips, you can ensure a clean, eco-friendly outdoor adventure. Get out there and explore!
- During a backpacking trip, proper outdoor living includes carrying essential gear such as a trowel, toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a reusable Kula Cloth for camping and hiking adventures, embracing the lifestyle of nature.
- In the wild, practicing outdoor-living principles like digging cat holes at least 6 inches deep, keeping them 200 feet away from water, trails, and campsites, and packing out toilet paper when necessary, is vital for home-and-garden care.
- While hiking on trails, don't forget to prepare your adventure kit filled with crucial items to maintain hygiene and minimize your environmental impact, ensuring a delightful and eco-friendly outdoor experience.
- Camping in the outdoors means selecting the right spot for your business, which includes staying away from water sources, choosing an area with loose soil, adequate sunlight, and privacy, and choosing higher ground to protect both your health and the environment.
- In the event that you require the use of the restroom while hiking, always assume the proper position (The Squat, The Throne, The Tripod, or The Assist) to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal impact on nature's trails.
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