Adventure Plans
Going to the bathroom
1. Introduction
Going to the bathroom on trail can be a cause for concern for people new to overnight hiking and even for longer day hikes. This guide should help you with some of the basics. The most important point is to leave no trace
2. Number 1s (Peeing)
This one is pretty easy for men, just find a spot that is hidden from trail and you know the rest. For everyone else enjoyment make sure to go a short distance from the trail so that the trail doesn't smell like a public toilet. May sure you are hidden so that no one gets a nasty surprise!
For women things are a little harder, privacy is more of a concern and we need to think about wiping. When hiking on higher ground there is often less or no vegetation to hide behind so make sure that you think ahead. Some women opt for a Shewee to help with this but in our experience these can be a little tricky to use and aren't for everyone. If you do want to try one have a practice in the shower at home first! When it comes to wiping we have found Kula cloths to be an excellent solution. For those that are new though pack in a little toilet paper and have a spare bag for the litter. Please make sure to pack out any used toilet paper as it can be very unpleasant for other hikers.
3. Number 2s
These can be a little more challenging and are important to do right to avoid others coming across your poo.
First, on a short overnight try to hold on until you get back to civilization, the less poo in the hills and mountains the better. Next, know where the public toilets are on you trip. There aren't always some but it's much better for the environment that if you can find one and a much nicer experience.
If you do need to go in the hills try to use a wag bag. These help you pack out your poop in a hygienic way and often provide some extras to help you clean your hands and wipe up. We like to use PACT kits, they are light and not too bulky when carrying and are easy to use when nature calls.
The final option is to get digging. be sure to only do this when you are below the tree line so that the waste can be broken down in nature. Whee choosing where to go, check that you are at lest 35 m (100ft) from trails, camp spots and water courses. Dg a hole that is at least 20 cm (8 in) deep, and make sure that it is relatively large as there will be more than you expect. Pack out any toilet paper. Cover over your poop with and mark your hole in a way that will make other think that someone else has been there.