How to Go to the Toilet While Camping

Finding a place to relieve yourself while camping can be a challenge. If you're not used to roughing it in the wilderness, a few pointers can help you be prepared for bathroom needs while camping. You don't need to be embarrassed or uncomfortable if you prepare in advance, in fact, it hasn't been very long since indoor plumbing has become a part of our daily lives.

Things You'll Need

• Portable camping toilet
• Shovel
• Toilet paper
• Plastic bags

Instructions

1. Camp near the restroom or outhouse. If you are really squeamish about going to the bathroom in the woods, be sure you camp near a facility within walking distance. Most campgrounds offer restrooms and showers.

2. Bring a portable camping toilet. If you are camping in the wilderness where there will be no facilities and you really can't stand the thought of going to the bathroom in the woods, you can bring a portable camping toilet which uses either chemicals or disposable waste bags for dealing with the waste. You will have to find a suitable place to clean and empty your camp toilet when necessary. If all else fails, a hole dug in the ground will serve as a suitable place to empty your waste as long as there are no non-degradable products such as plastic or chemicals in your toilet.

3. Go in the woods. If you are really roughing it or hiking and there are no portable toilets or restrooms in sight, you can take care of your bathroom needs in the woods. Carry a small shovel with you, some toilet paper and some plastic bags. If you need to urinate, you can simply hide behind a shrub or tree and either squat or lean against a tree or rock for support and relieve yourself. If you need to defecate, be sure to dig a hole and bury your waste afterwards so that it won't be tracked through by other campers. Make sure you do not eliminate near water or a trail where people will be walking. Always carry out your toilet paper out with you. You can also use leaves instead of toilet paper if you are adept at identifying plants. A poison ivy or oak rash in your nether regions is never a pleasant thing.

4. Sanitize. Be sure to clean your hands thoroughly when you are finished. Bring a hand sanitizer or some bottled water and soap with you for clean-up. Dispose of your waste paper in an appropriate receptacle as soon as possible and never litter.