The Great Debate: Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking?
When it comes to backpacking and spending time in the great outdoors, one of the most pressing questions that often arises is about the disposal of toilet paper. Should you bury it or pack it out? This question sparks a great debate among hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will explore the best practices for handling toilet paper while adhering to Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that we maintain our wilderness hygiene and minimize our environmental impact.
Understanding Leave No Trace Principles
Before we dive into the specifics of toilet paper disposal, it’s essential to understand the Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines were developed to promote outdoor ethics and encourage responsible recreation in the wilderness. Here are the seven principles:
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impact.
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
When it comes to the third principle, disposing of waste properly, toilet paper disposal plays a significant role in maintaining the integrity of the wilderness.
Why Toilet Paper Disposal Matters
Improper disposal of toilet paper can lead to several detrimental effects on the environment, including:
- Pollution: Toilet paper does not decompose as quickly as you might think, especially in wet or cold conditions. This can lead to unsightly and unsanitary conditions on the trail.
- Wildlife Attraction: Leaving toilet paper behind can attract animals, which may dig through waste in search of food, leading to further mess and potential safety hazards.
- Trail Etiquette: Leaving toilet paper in the wilderness is considered bad form among hikers and can ruin the experience for others.
Now that we understand the implications of toilet paper disposal, let’s explore the appropriate methods for managing it while backpacking.
Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking?
The short answer is: it depends. While some hikers advocate for burying toilet paper, many experts recommend against this practice. Let’s break down the reasons and explore the best alternatives.
The Case Against Burying Toilet Paper
- Decomposition Issues: Burying toilet paper does not guarantee that it will break down quickly. In many environments, especially those that are cold or arid, toilet paper can remain intact for years.
- Soil Contamination: If buried too shallowly, toilet paper can resurface, leading to pollution of the area and creating an eyesore.
- Wildlife Interference: Animals may dig up buried toilet paper, leading to further contamination and disruption of the ecosystem.
Given these factors, it’s crucial to prioritize proper hygiene and environmental protection over convenience.
Best Practices for Toilet Paper Disposal While Backpacking
Instead of burying toilet paper, here are recommended practices for handling it while enjoying the outdoors:
1. Use Biodegradable Toilet Paper
If you must use toilet paper, choose a biodegradable option designed for camping. These products break down more quickly than regular toilet paper and are generally more environmentally friendly.
2. Pack It Out
The best practice is to pack out used toilet paper. Here’s how:
- Bring a Sealable Bag: Use a resealable plastic bag or a dedicated waste bag to store used toilet paper. Make sure it’s durable to prevent leaks and odors.
- Label the Bag: Clearly label the bag as waste to avoid any confusion with food or other gear.
- Dispose Properly: At the end of your trip, dispose of the sealed bag in a trash bin.
3. Use a Trowel for Human Waste
If you are in an area where toilets are unavailable, consider digging a small hole (at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources or trails) to dispose of your human waste. Always pack out your toilet paper, even if you are burying your waste.
4. Consider Alternatives
For those who prefer a more minimalist approach to wilderness hygiene, consider alternatives to toilet paper:
- Natural Wipes: Use biodegradable wipes that can be packed out.
- Reusable Cloths: Small cloths that can be used and washed after your trip can be an eco-friendly option.
Step-by-Step Process for Toilet Paper Disposal
Here’s a step-by-step process to ensure that you handle toilet paper responsibly while backpacking:
- Prepare: Before your trip, pack a resealable bag for waste and biodegradable toilet paper if needed.
- Find a Suitable Spot: When nature calls, choose a location away from trails and water sources.
- Dig a Hole: If necessary, dig a hole for human waste.
- Use Toilet Paper: Use your biodegradable toilet paper as needed.
- Pack It Out: Place used toilet paper in your waste bag and seal it tightly.
- Dispose at Home: At the end of your trip, throw the bag in the trash.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong while backpacking. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Odor Control: If odors become an issue, consider double-bagging your waste bag or using odor-neutralizing products.
- Leaks: If your waste bag leaks, transfer everything into a sturdier, sealable bag immediately.
- Emergency Situations: In case you run out of toilet paper, consider natural alternatives such as smooth stones or leaves (make sure they are safe and non-toxic).
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the question of whether you can bury toilet paper while backpacking is a common one, the answer leans towards “no.” The implications of burying toilet paper can have negative effects on the environment, wildlife, and trail etiquette. Instead, it is best to pack out your used toilet paper and adhere to the Leave No Trace principles to ensure that our wilderness areas remain pristine for future generations. Remember that practicing good outdoor ethics not only enhances your experience but also respects the natural world around us. For more information on outdoor ethics and best practices, visit Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.
This article is in the category Tips and created by CampingRecipes Team