Rustic camping can be a rewarding experience that leaves one filled with awe and wonder. There is nothing like tent camping in the wilderness with friends; however, one consideration deters many women from enjoying this commune with nature: the bathroom.
Women have good reason to be concerned with "going to the bathroom" in the woods. They are more likely to get urine on their legs and clothes than men. Having the right supplies on hand and developing a strategy will minimize this problem and make wilderness camping a more enjoyable experience.
Camping Supplies for Waste Disposal
Having the right supplies can make a world of difference in a woman's camping experience. The following are strongly recommended for inclusion among the camping accessories:
- Trowel: a trowel is a small, digging tool, often used for gardening.
- Biodegradable toilet paper: while natural alternatives exist – leaves such as those on thimbleberry bushes make good toilet paper alternatives – the absorbency of toilet paper is often preferred by many women.
- Opaque waste disposal bags: plastic bags work well for any waste that must be packed out. Choose bags specifically made for human waste disposal, or other plastic bags that are a unique color signifying human waste.
- Feminine hygiene products: tampons are more compact with less waste than pads, but can be messier to use. Women may wish to bring nitrile gloves for handling tampons when running water is not available for clean-up. Nitrile is an alternative to latex. Gloves, sanitary napkins, and tampons must be placed in the waste disposal bag and removed from the campsite. They cannot be buried in catholes.
- Biodegradable soap: choose eco-friendly products that are specially-made for camping use. Some companies make camping soaps that are safe for the environment. Traditional soaps can be harmful when used in streams and lakes.
- Anti-diarrhea medication: while it may seem like a humorous topic, diarrhea often strikes when it is least convenient and with no warning. Some foods naturally cause loose stools. The wilderness is not the place to have diarrhea. It is important to speak with a doctor about a safe anti-diarrhea medication to use in case of emergency.
- Flashlight or camping lantern: light is necessary when tramping through the woods at night.
Camping Toilet
Several varieties of camping toilets are available for use during wilderness camping. These toilets often come with opaque, disposable bags that are designed to be packed out with the rest of the camp waste. According to the Leave No Trace article, "Dispose of Waste Properly", by the Center for Outdoor Ethics, "Solid human waste must be packed out from some places, such as narrow river canyons. Land management agencies can advise you of specific rules for the area you plan to visit."
Wilderness Camping Cathole
Catholes are commonly used for human waste disposal and are easily dug with a trowel. According to the USDA Forest Service's December 22, 2008 article, "Wilderness Areas", "Human waste must be buried at least two hundred (200) feet from surface water." Some camping advocates further advise burying waste at least 200 feet from the campsite and trails, and packing out waste when using more popular camping areas.
Women who have a difficult time with urine that sprays – on the leg, for example – may prefer to dig their catholes next to logs. A log can be used as a seat that will protect the legs and clothing from urine.
Biodegradable Toilet Paper
Unless otherwise noted by the land management agency, toilet paper can be placed in catholes. If this method is used, toilet paper must be biodegradable and free of perfumes and dyes.
Packing the supplies in a bag can make it much easier to run out into the woods when it is time. This will prevent forgetting key accessories or fumbling through the camping gear. With some careful planning, wilderness camping can be anxiety-free when it comes to waste disposal.
CAM101
Diane Ursu - Diane Ursu joined Suite101 as a contributing writer in August 2009 and became a Feature Writer in January 2010. She is a freelance writer ...
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