Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Keeping clean
Frankly, this is overrated. If you can't get a little
grubby when you go camping, when can you? But if
you're determined to stay clean, then here some tips:
• Many campsites have hot showers, but if not, there
are solar-heated portable showers on the market
• Never bathe in a wild water source. Instead, use a
collapsible sink or other water container and take
cleanup water at least 200 feet from the source
before washing off. Use no soap or at least a
biodegradeable brand. Never introduce any soap
into a lake or stream; it promotes algae growth.
• Dirty clothes don't matter much, but underwear
does. Wild laundry is possible on a warm day and
trips to the laundromat are definitely allowed.
• Keeping hands clean is essential. Hand sanitizers
are useful, especially with children around.
• If you're backcountry camping, you could dig a
deep latrine, or use a chemical toilet. If you're unable
to squat, there are foldout cardboard toilet seats that
can be recycled. If you're backpacking, dig a hole six
to eight inches deep in soil for depositing stool.
Inquire about local regulations for human waste
disposal in advance and abide by them. Pack out
used toilet paper in a zip-closure plastic bag. Burning
toilet paper is usually discouraged.
Missing the odd bath doesn't
matter, but a wash in pure
water can be so refreshing.
