Expert Tips for How to Stay Clean While Backpacking

Backpacking is a fantastic way to explore the outdoors and venture to places that are hard to reach. But staying clean in the backcountry can be a real challenge. Hiking for hours, getting sweaty, dirty, and muddy is part of the fun in backpacking but it can leave you feeling uncomfortable and can make sleeping difficult. But don’t worry staying clean while backpacking can actually be fairly simple. And in this article, we’ll share easy tips and tricks for how to stay clean while backpacking.

How to Stay Clean While Backpacking

Staying clean starts with choosing the right hygiene gear. Lightweight and compact items like hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a microfiber towel are non-negotiable. These backpacking hygiene essentials keep you clean without adding unnecessary weight to your pack. Many backpackers find that maintaining hygiene on the trail not only helps avoid health issues but also enhances overall comfort and enjoyment.

A daily hygiene routine greatly impacts how you feel during your trip. Consider factors such as pack weight and necessity when selecting your gear. Aim for a balance between cleanliness and a manageable load. Each item, from hand sanitizer to pack towels, helps you stay fresh and healthy.

Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is essential for any backpacking trip. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer is particularly effective for killing germs, making it crucial after using the restroom and before meals. It provides a quick and easy hygiene solution when soap and water aren’t available. Frequent use, especially before meals and after restroom use, helps prevent illness on the trail.

Keep in mind that hand sanitizer works best without visible dirt and grime on your hands. If your hands are dirty, run them under some water (either from a water bottle or from a stream) before using the sanitizer to get the best result. Make sure to get under your fingernails too since this is often where most germs like to hide.

Biodegradable Soap

Biodegradable soap is another key item for backpacking hygiene. It’s suitable for both body and gear cleaning, making it a versatile addition to your kit. If using soap, follow Leave No Trace recommendations. Always wash yourself at least 200 feet away from lakes or streams to protect water quality and wildlife. Do not bathe in lakes, creeks, or streams with soap.

Biodegradable soap can work well for washing your hands and even be used for a sponge bath with a cloth or towelette can maintain cleanliness. However, in the majority of my trips I actually prefer using wet wipes for bathing due to ease.

Wet Wipes

Wet wipes provide convenient quick clean-ups on the trail. Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes, for instance, are recommended due to their effectiveness. You can moisten dry wipes with water to enhance their cleaning power.

Wet wipes are my go-to for quick sponge baths and wipe downs. I do the classic wipe down prior to going to bed as a nightly routine. Wipes are generally fairly light weight, though do require packing out more trash with you. Always pack out used wet wipes, as they take a long time to decompose, especially in arid environments.

Travel Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Maintaining oral hygiene is critical during backpacking to prevent bad breath and dental issues. A lightweight travel toothbrush is essential for keeping your mouth clean without adding excessive weight to your pack.

For backpacking, I prefer not to pack out tubes of toothpaste anymore and usually pack toothpaste tablets. Tablets are so easy to use as you basically just chew them and start brushing as you normally would. I typically bring two tablets per day to brush my teeth twice and bring a packable toothbrush

Pack Towel

A quick-drying microfiber pack towel is a game-changer for backpacking hygiene. It’s efficient and dries off quickly, making it ideal for drying yourself after washing. Including a lightweight, quick-drying microfiber pack towel is a versatile piece of equipment that will work well for drying off and drying dishes as needed.

I really like to bring a small towel to dry off especially if I find a reliable source of water to rinse off in or decide to make a soapy sponge bath in my tent on the very rare occasion.

Tips for Maintaining Personal Hygiene

Personal cleanliness on the trail requires adapting to conditions and having the right products. A daily hygiene routine significantly improves your comfort and health. Even with limited water access, simple practices can help you stay clean and feel fresh. Staying clean on the trail combines creativity with the right gear.

Washing Hands

Washing hands with soap and water is the number one way to prevent illness, especially in the backcountry. Proper handwashing after bathroom use maintains cleanliness and prevents germ spread. Be mindful of soap usage in the backcountry and follow Leave No Trace guidelines.

I often will rinse my hands with water to rid of dirt, sweat, and bacteria. Then follow up with sanitizer. If my hands are visibly soiled, then I will use a very small amount of biodegradable soap and water.

Sponge Bath

A sponge bath offers a practical way to stay clean when a shower isn’t possible. Wet a bandana or buff with water to rinse off salt and grime before sleeping. Using biodegradable soap and a cloth or towelette can help you perform a thorough sponge bath.

Majority of cases I will use wet wipes for sponge baths wiping of sweat, dirt, and any grime off. Wet Wipes work well because they are compact, lightweight, and quick-drying, ideal for backpacking.

Brushing Teeth

Brushing your teeth while backpacking is essential to prevent bad breath and tooth decay. Aim to brush at least twice a day to maintain oral hygiene.

A folding or sawed-off toothbrush is ideal for maintaining oral hygiene due to its compact size. Pairing it with travel-size toothpaste or tablets and floss ensures comprehensive oral care. These days I mostly use toothpaste tablets now due to the weight, minimal amount of water needed, and overall convenience.

Keeping Clothes Clean

Managing dirty clothes effectively is essential for staying fresh on long backpacking trips. Managing laundry care while in the backpacking is nothing fancy and I will review how you can keep your clothes cleaner.

However, I will add that on most of my trip’s clothing care is usually something I don’t worry about but, I know for some this can sound a bit barbaric. If you are wanting to have an option for doing laundry in the backcountry here is how I would go about it.

Rinsing Clothes

Using the gallon zip block bag, collect some water. The soap really isn’t necessary as just rinsing does a great job at removing sweat and dirt. However, if you want to, add a very small amount of biodegradable soap in the bag.

Agitate and shake your clothes inside the bag be sure to make sure it is zipped up tight. Always rinse clothes at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams to protect water sources and wildlife and dispose grey water.

Drying Techniques

Locking safety pins can attach damp clothes to your backpack, allowing them to dry as you hike. This method is useful for items like socks, which dry efficiently with airflow while you walk. However, if you plan on doing laundry while at camp you could bring paracord and hand your clothes to dry.

Another pro tip for drying clothes, is actually to just put your clothes back on. If the day is fairly warm the combination of your own body heat and the sun will dry your clothes fairly quickly especially if wearing quick drying fabric.

Extra Pair of Clothes

Packing a separate set of clothing specifically for sleeping can help maintain cleanliness in your sleeping bag. Designating a specific set of clothes for sleeping, such as a long sleeve top and bottom, ensures that your sleeping bag stays clean and comfortable.

This strategy is particularly useful for multi-day backpacking trips where maintaining hygiene is crucial. I’ll often actually bring designated sleeping clothes and hiking clothes for comfort.

Feminine Hygiene on the Trail

Feminine hygiene on the trail requires careful planning and the right supplies. Here are some options to consider:

1. Menstrual Cup: For its convenience and environmental benefits.
2. Tampons or Pads: Make sure to pack them out in plastic bags and dispose of them properly after your trip.
3. Urination Funnel: This can make it easier to stand and urinate, providing privacy and convenience.
4. Pee Rag: Makes it easier to dry off, reduces need for toilet paper.

Whether you’re tackling the Appalachian Trail or a shorter hike, managing feminine hygiene effectively ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Menstrual Cup

Menstrual cups, like the Diva Cup, are recommended for managing menstruation on the trail. They offer convenience and are more environmentally friendly compared to disposable products.

After use, empty the contents into a 6-8 inch hole and dispose of it daily to maintain hygiene and minimize environmental impact.

Disposable Products

If you prefer disposable products like tampons or pads, pack them out in plastic bags for sanitary disposal after your trip. Never bury used tampons, as this can lead to environmental hazards and is against Leave No Trace principles.

Proper disposal of used feminine hygiene products minimizes environmental impact and keeps the trail clean.

Birth Control

Birth control pills, patches, or other hormonal methods can help you skip periods during backpacking. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are also an option for long-term birth control and can help manage menstrual cycles.

Consult a healthcare professional before changing your birth control routine, especially for skipping periods, to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Managing Waste and Sanitation

Proper waste management and sanitation are crucial for a clean environment and a pleasant backpacking experience. Used tampons and pads must be packed out in resealable plastic bags to prevent environmental contamination.

Burying solid human waste in a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources prevents contamination and adheres to Leave No Trace principles.

Keep biodegradable soap usage minimal, as it requires soil to degrade and should be used far from water sources. Avoid using soap in natural water sources to prevent contamination.

A pee funnel provides privacy and convenience for women, allowing them to urinate while standing. Following Leave No Trace principles preserves natural environments while enjoying outdoor activities.

Toilet Paper and Plastic Bags

Pack out used toilet paper in a plastic bag; do not bury or burn it. Consider using pee rags or dedicating a bandana for wiping instead of toilet paper to reduce waste. If you must use toilet paper, pack it out in Ziploc bags.

Cat Hole Method

When it comes to pooping in the woods. Dig a cat hole at least 6 inches deep and 200 feet from any water sources to minimize environmental impact. This method ensures proper disposal of human waste in the backcountry. Natural alternatives to toilet paper, like vegetation or snow, should also be buried in a cat hole.

Cleaning Cooking Utensils

Plan meals in advance and use fewer cooking pots to reduce waste and minimize cleanup. After meals, scrape food residue from dishes into a trash bag to be packed out. Wash dishes at least 200 feet away from water sources to protect the environment.

Use hot water and a scrub pad for cleaning, then dispose of gray water by digging a sump hole. Avoid using soap unless necessary, as even biodegradable soaps can harm waterways.

Hair Care and Grooming

Hair care and grooming on the trail can be challenging, but a few simple practices can make a big difference. Here are some tips:

1. Braiding hair can prevent tangling and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
2. Two low braids work well for most hair types and can be easily brushed out and redone at camp.
3. Use a collapsible water cache bucket to rinse your hair when water is plentiful.

By following these practices, you can keep your hair manageable while enjoying your outdoor adventures.

Dry shampoo keeps your hair looking clean between washes. It effectively lifts debris off the scalp, and choosing a lightweight option minimizes pack weight.

These simple hair care practices help you stay clean and feel good, even when you’re miles away from the nearest shower.

Leave No Trace Principles

Leave No Trace principles emphasize responsible outdoor practices to minimize environmental impact. These principles encourage outdoor enthusiasts to understand their environmental impact and to minimize it while enjoying nature. Following these guidelines ensures the preservation of beautiful landscapes for future generations.

Use unscented items to avoid attracting wildlife while hiking. Dig a cat hole for human waste 200 feet away from trails and water sources to minimize environmental impact. Regular soap near water sources can harm aquatic life; biodegradable options are designed to break down naturally.

Proper Disposal

Pack out used toilet paper and hygiene items instead of burying them to minimize environmental impact. Never leave hygiene products behind; pack them out to prevent environmental pollution.

Proper waste disposal is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy environment while backpacking.

Respect Water Sources

Use natural materials like sand or river pebbles instead of soap to clean cooking utensils and avoid contaminating water sources. It is essential to maintain a safe distance from water sources to protect wildlife and the quality of water.

Always use water and biodegradable soap far from water sources to minimize impact.

Backcountry Hygiene Gear Supplies List

In general, it does not take a whole lot of items to keep you clean in the backcountry. These items are essential for staying clean while backpacking. Here’s a short list of the items I recommend you bring:

• Trowel
• Toilet paper
• Pee Rag (optional)
• Backcountry Bidet (optional)
• Biodegradable Wet Wipes (optional)
• Buff, bandana, or small camp towel
• Biodegradable soap
• Small sealable plastic bag for packing out used items
• Toothbrush
• Travel size toothpaste or toothpaste tablets
• Hand sanitizer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important hygiene item to bring on a backpacking trip?

You definitely want to pack hand sanitizer as it’s a game changer for keeping germs at bay, especially after bathroom breaks and before you eat. Just a little goes a long way in keeping you healthy on your trip!

How can I keep my clothes clean on the trail?

To keep your clothes, clean on the trail, rinse them in clean water using a bag and away from water sources and hang them up to dry on a makeshift clothesline or your backpacking pack. It’s a simple way to stay fresh while enjoying the outdoors

What are the benefits of using a menstrual cup while backpacking?

Using a menstrual cup while backpacking is super convenient and eco-friendly since it cuts down on packing out disposables.

How should I dispose of used toilet paper on the trail?

It’s best to pack out used toilet paper in a plastic bag instead of burying or burning it. This keeps the trail clean and helps the environment.

Why is it important to follow Leave No Trace principles?

It’s super important to follow Leave No Trace principles because it helps keep our beautiful natural areas intact for everyone to enjoy later. By minimizing our impact, we’re doing our part to protect the environment.

Final Thoughts

Staying clean while backpacking is essential for your health, comfort, and overall enjoyment of the experience. By packing the right hygiene gear, maintaining personal cleanliness, managing waste properly, and adhering to Leave No Trace principles, you can ensure a pleasant and eco-friendly adventure. Remember, a clean hiker is a happy hiker. So, follow these tips and tricks to stay fresh and enjoy every moment of your backpacking trips.

Editor’s note: This post was originally published on (January 10, 2023) and updated on (August 25, 2024)