Spending time in nature is a wonderful way to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. But when nature calls, being prepared is important, especially if you’re far from a restroom. Managing human waste in the wild may seem daunting, but with a few simple tips, you’ll be pooping like a pro without leaving a trace. Here’s your complete guide on handling your business responsibly in the wilderness.
The Importance of Pooping Responsibly
When you’re out in the wilderness, everything you do affects the environment, including how you dispose of waste. Human waste can spread harmful bacteria, impact wildlife, and spoil the natural beauty of an area. That’s why knowing how to manage your poop properly is crucial. While animals like bears and squirrels might poop freely in the woods, humans have a greater responsibility to protect nature. We eat foods filled with bacteria and waste that don’t belong out there.
Bury It or Pack It Out?
There are two main methods for handling human waste in the wild: burying it or packing it out. Traditionally, Leave No Trace principles recommended burying your poop, but more recently, they’ve updated their guidelines. The new advice is to pack out your waste whenever possible. If you’re in an area where burying is still acceptable, you’ll need to know the right way to do it. But if burying isn’t an option, don’t worry – packing it out is a lot simpler than it sounds.
The Essential Poop Kit
Every experienced camper or hiker should carry a well-prepared poop kit. At the very least, this kit should include a trowel, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. A bidet is a great addition for staying clean while reducing toilet paper usage. You’ll also need a small bag for packing out used toilet paper or a wag bag for carrying out everything. Keeping your kit lightweight and compact will make it easy to stash in your backpack, so you’ll always be prepared.
Digging the Perfect Cat Hole
If burying your poop is allowed in your location, you’ll need to dig a cat hole. A cat hole should be at least 6-8 inches deep and 4 inches wide. This ensures the poop is buried deep enough to decompose naturally without attracting animals or contaminating the water supply. Use a trowel to dig your hole in soft, moist soil, far away from water sources and trails. Pro tip: Don’t wait until the last second to dig! Find your spot and get everything ready before it’s an emergency.
Squatting for Success
Mastering the squat is key to pooping in the woods like a pro. The goal is to position yourself over the hole you’ve dug, ensuring that your poop lands right where it’s supposed to. Squat low to minimize the distance between your butt and the ground, which reduces the risk of splatter. With practice, you’ll develop good “butt awareness,” helping you aim more accurately each time. And if you miss? No big deal. Just use a stick to push the poop into the hole.
The Magic of a Bidet
A portable bidet can make all the difference when it comes to cleanliness in the wild. Using water to clean yourself is not only more effective than toilet paper, but it also eliminates the risk of getting poop on your hands. Fill your bidet with clean water, aim, and give yourself a good rinse. It’s hygienic, eco-friendly, and you’ll never have to worry about running out of toilet paper. Plus, with a bidet, you’re less likely to leave any trace behind.
Managing Used Toilet Paper
If you’re using toilet paper instead of a bidet, it’s important to pack it out, even if you’re burying your poop. Carry a couple of Ziploc bags – one for clean toilet paper and one for used. To avoid seeing the contents, you can cover your dirty bag with duct tape or use opaque bags. Double bagging ensures there’s no smell or leakage. Trust me, packing out your toilet paper is much better than leaving it to litter the forest floor.
When Burying Isn’t an Option
Sometimes the terrain makes digging impossible. Whether you’re in a rocky area, on frozen ground, or in an environment where burying is prohibited, you’ll need to pack out your poop. One simple method is to lift a heavy rock, poop underneath it, and replace the rock. But if that doesn’t seem feasible, consider using a wag bag or poop tube. These are specialized bags that contain deodorizing powder, making it easy to carry out your waste without the smell.
The Poop Tube Solution
For extended trips or areas that require packing out waste, a poop tube is a handy tool. It’s a PVC pipe that allows you to store sealed bags of poop until you can dispose of them properly. Just drop your bagged waste into the tube, seal it up, and you’re good to go. While carrying your poop might sound gross at first, a poop tube makes the process clean and easy.
The Environmental Impact of Poop
Leaving human waste in the backcountry isn’t just unsightly – it can have serious consequences for the environment. Our waste contains bacteria and other pathogens that can harm animals and contaminate water sources. Additionally, with more people venturing into nature, unmanaged poop can quickly turn a beautiful wilderness into a health hazard. By following proper disposal practices, we protect the environment and ensure that future generations can enjoy the same pristine landscapes.
Be a Steward of the Outdoors
Pooping in the woods isn’t glamorous, but it’s part of being a responsible outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re backpacking, camping, or hiking, managing your waste properly is crucial. Follow the guidelines for the area you’re in, whether that’s burying your poop or packing it out. And remember, the goal is always to leave no trace – so that the next person who enjoys the wilderness doesn’t stumble upon any evidence of your last adventure.
With these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to poop like a pro, ensuring both your comfort and the protection of the environment.
Personal Connection to Nature
How do you think our approach to waste management in the backcountry impacts not only the environment but also our personal connection to nature? What challenges do you think arise when more people use wilderness spaces without understanding proper waste disposal techniques? How could we improve education on this topic?
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.