How to Poop while Backpacking

If you’re new to backpacking, the thought of pooping in the backcountry can cause a weird amount of anxiety. Planning a trip that will put you in the wilderness for a few days means you need to learn how to poop while backpacking. And that’s ok! I remember being so nervous about this, but it’s actually pretty awesome. No need for magazines or your phone while you poop in the woods… just enjoy the scenery 🙂

In essence, you dig a deep hole, squat, and poop. But if you’re like me and need to read extensively about something prior to it happening, I’ll go in depth here and step-by-step here. You’ll have no reason to worry about this part of your backpacking trip after this post.

Something that seems so obvious, but I’ll say it anyways… if there is a latrine or any spot near you that is designated for poop/pee, go there. It’s there for a reason, and it’s way more sanitary for you to go there than anywhere else. Still pack out your toilet paper, though!

For more backpacking tips, check out my other post.

1. Gather your supplies

Luckily, you don’t need many! You will need a small shovel/trowel to dig a hole. You can get a lightweight one from REI. Toilet paper. A small ziploc to pack out your toilet paper (this is best practice for the environment). And hand sanitizer – or soap and water! That’s it.

Quick List:

• Small shovel/trowel
• Toilet paper and/or wipes
• A ziploc to put the toilet paper or wipes in
• Hand sanitizer or soap and water
• Bag to put your poop if required

If you are backpacking somewhere that requires you to pack out your poop, be prepared for this. Bring special bags for this. Double bag.

Figure out if the area you’re visiting has any specific regulations. Some places require you to pack out your waste (yuck, I know, but it’s ok!). Usually when you research your backpacking trek you’ll find this info out.

2. Find an appropriate spot to go

• You need to be 200 feet / 70 steps from any trails, campsites, or water sources.
• Keep track of where you’re walking – don’t get lost! – but find a spot that is secluded and private. You want to feel comfortable doing this.
• Find a spot with loose, rocky soil if possible.

3. Dig a hole

Your hole should be 4 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep. This is a deeper hole than you think! Bring a trowel so that you’re able to accomplish this. If you truly can’t dig because of the ground conditions, move a big rock, go under it, then move the rock back. Or pack out your poop.

4. Squat and poop

I don’t know about you, but I can’t last long in a deep squat. I recommend squatting on all fours. Use your hands for balance. Also, weird pro tip: just remove your bottoms completely. It makes squatting easier and you can get in a more comfortable position. Squat and go!

5. Wipe and pack out your wipes

Make sure you bring your wipes/toilet paper with you and the ziploc they will go in. Wipe and put the wipes and/or toilet paper in your little baggie. Double bag to make it more sanitary. I usually use a baby wipe/wet wipe to keep a little cleaner in the wilderness, but never ever put this in the hole.

You can also wipe with large (nonpoisonous!) leaves or a snowball. Up to you!

6. Fill the hole back up with dirt

Basically, try to make it look like you didn’t even go.

7. Sanitize and/or wash your hands

Prevent the spread of germs.

Why do we have to care so much about how to poop while backpacking?

If you’re a backpacker, I’m guessing you love spending time in nature. Burying your poop appropriately, not leaving toilet paper, etc. is best for the environment. These are the best practices to prevent the spread of germs and for your poop to decompose. Also, who wants to go hiking around a bunch of human feces? Not me.

The Leave No Trace Principles should always be followed in the wilderness.

Hopefully you now feel comfortable knowing how to poop while backpacking!

Please share with a friend who’s nervous about this too 🙂 If I missed anything or you have questions, comment below!

Happy Backpacking!

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