It's Time to Go, Nature Calls
Mastering Nature's Call in the Wild: Guidelines for Camping, Hiking, or Backpacking
Caught in the wilderness, feeling the rumble? Don't panic. We've got the lowdown on how to handle the call of nature without spoiling the fauna and flora for fellow adventurers.
Let's dive into the art ofody. Yes, you read that right—it's time to get cozy with the basics of dumping in the wild. We promise, it'll be a smoother process than you think.
10 Tips for Pottying in the Wild
1. Embrace the Dirt
Nature's calling, and you gotta answer—c'mon, you're an outdoorsy type, after all. So grab your tools and a positive attitude. Resist the urge to hesitate; remember, humans have been doing this since, well, forever.
2. Know the Laws
Before you hit the trails, bone up on Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines will keep you out of hot water (literally and figuratively) and ensure your outdoor pee-paces don't become someone else's problem. Key points include:
- Dig smart: At least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites
- Catholes: Pack it out in some places, bury it in others
- Waste and tampons: Never leave in the wild, always pack it out
- Rivers and deserts: Special rules apply; research ahead of time
- Rules vary for high-use areas: Bring WAG bags or a portable toilet if necessary
3. Pack the Essentials
No one likes an unprepared pooper. Stock up on these must-haves:
- TP or natural options
- Sealable plastic bags or WAG bags
- Trowel
- Hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap
- Kula Cloth (optional, but handy for ladies)
4. Spot Selection
Your bum deserves some privacy and a clean destination. Keep these factors in mind when choosing your spot:
- Stay at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites
- Find rich, loose soil and a sunny spot for faster decomposition
- Some cover is ideal for privacy and ease of finding the spot
- Select higher ground to avoid areas prone to water accumulation
- In busy areas, avoid obvious spots to deter shared use
5. Dig a Ditch
A proper cathole is a happy cathole. Use a trowel or digging tool to make a 4-6 inch wide and 6-8 inch deep hole. Animals, rain, and humans won't be able to dig it up or spot it easily.
6. Take Position
Everyone's got their preferred squat stance—find what works best for you to remain stable and comfortable. Remember, it's all about balance and poise.
7. Clean Up
Tidiness is key when going big in the wild. Choose from among these methods to wipe and clean up:
- Toilet paper: Bury it or pack it out if required
- Natural materials: Leaves, stones, or snow can work if they don't harm the environment
- Wet wipes: These are handy, but since they don't break down, you'll need to pack them out along with any menstrual products or hygiene items
- Backcountry bidet: A small water bottle doubles as a handy squirt bottle for a clean rinse
Always have your cleanup items at the ready to make the process smoother and cleaner.
8. Cover It Up
Bury your mess deep so animals, rain, and humans can't discover it. Refill the hole with the original dirt and press it down firmly with your boot. Camouflage the area with leaves, pine needles, or whatever natural material is nearest, then wash your hands thoroughly.
9. Maintain Backcountry Hygiene
Good hygiene is a must for a happy, healthy lifetime of adventures. Keep these practices in mind:
- Sanitize after every bathroom break
- Wash your hands daily when backpacking, especially before eating
- Dump dirty water on bare soil, not on plants or lichen-covered rocks
- Pack a fast-drying towel to wipe down after a long day
10. Be Prepared for Special Circumstances
Sometimes, things don't go according to plan. Keep these tips top of mind:
- Packing Out Waste: In some areas, you may be required to pack out your waste using WAG bags or portable toilet systems. Always follow local rules and policies
- Period Products: Always pack out all menstrual supplies, regardless of where you are
- Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs: For those times when nature calls in the dead of night, consider using a pee bottle or pee funnel
Why Should You Care?
Follow these steps, and you'll not only keep wild places pristine and untouched for future adventurers but also do your part in respecting the environment and ensuring a clean, healthy outdoor space for everyone.
Remember, just because you're in nature doesn't mean the rules of decency go out the window. Be a responsible camper, and enjoy the great outdoors with peace of mind.
So grab your gear, hit the trails, and remember—dirt is your friend. Embrace the call of the wild and show Mother Earth some love.
Sharing is Caring
Share this guide with your fellow wilderness enthusiasts to help them navigate the art of pottying in the great outdoors. Spread the knowledge, spread the love, and let's all do our part to keep our beautiful planet clean and wild.
Stride confidently into the wild, armed with this essential guide to nature's call. Happy trails, my dear fellow adventurers!
- Embarking on the trail for a camping or backpacking adventure isn't complete without packing essential gear for maintaining outdoor hygiene, adding items like a trowel, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer to your list.
- For those seeking excitement in the wilderness, enjoying the beauty of nature while embracing the outdoors-lifestyle often includes hiking along picturesque trails, unwinding by a campfire, and even partaking in a bit of adventure-induced 'outdoor-living'.
- Whether you're an experienced backpacker or just someone eager to immerse yourself in nature, deciding to take up backpacking or camping is a testament to your love for the outdoors and your willingness to lead a lifestyle that aligns with home-and-garden values, even as you stray away from home.
- As you traverse through the wilderness on your wilderness adventure, don't forget to appreciate the small but mighty details that make nature remarkably beautiful, such as the delicate patterns found on the underside of leaves or the intricate designs adorning the walls of a glacial valley.
- Equipped with your camping gear, you venture forth into the wilderness, where the serenity of nature beckons, inviting you to join in the struggle for survival, participate in the cycle of life, and witness the raw beauty that can only be found on certain trails deep within the heart of the outdoors.
