Camping is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. But for many, there’s one aspect of camping that can be a bit of a hassle – the bathroom situation. When nature calls, where do you go? This is where the concept of “potty camping” comes in. potty camping refers to the art of handling your bathroom needs while camping in a way that is convenient, hygienic, and environmentally friendly.
Whether you’re camping in a tent, RV, or camper van, having a plan for managing your bathroom needs can make your camping trip much more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and tricks for potty camping so you can have a hassle-free experience in the great outdoors.
One of the first things to consider when potty camping is the type of camping you’ll be doing. If you’ll be staying at a campground with facilities like toilets and showers, your bathroom needs will be relatively easy to manage. However, if you’re going off the grid and camping in a remote location, you’ll need to come up with a plan for handling your bathroom needs.
For those camping in a remote location, investing in a portable toilet can be a game-changer. Portable toilets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from basic bucket-style options to more sophisticated models with flushable tanks. Having a portable toilet on hand can make managing your bathroom needs much easier and more convenient.
When it comes to choosing a portable toilet, consider factors like size, weight, ease of use, and waste disposal options. Look for a portable toilet that is compact and lightweight, so it’s easy to transport and set up at your campsite. Make sure the toilet is easy to clean and empty, and consider whether you’ll need to dispose of waste in a designated dump station or if you can bury it safely in the ground.
If you prefer a more environmentally friendly option, consider using a composting toilet while potty camping. Composting toilets work by breaking down waste with the help of natural microorganisms, turning it into compost that can be safely disposed of in the environment. Composting toilets are a great eco-friendly option for campers who want to minimize their impact on the environment.
Another important consideration when potty camping is hygiene. Make sure to pack plenty of hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and biodegradable toilet paper to keep your hands and your camping area clean. It’s also a good idea to bring a small shovel or trowel for burying waste and a trash bag for carrying out any non-biodegradable waste.
When setting up your portable toilet at your campsite, choose a discreet location that is at least 200 feet away from water sources like rivers and lakes. Make sure to set up your toilet on level ground and secure it properly to prevent any spills or accidents. Once you’ve used the toilet, be sure to empty and clean it regularly to prevent odors and bacterial growth.
If you prefer a more rustic option, you can also consider using a cathole for your bathroom needs while potty camping. A cathole is simply a hole that you dig in the ground to use as a temporary toilet. When digging a cathole, make sure it’s at least 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources. After using the cathole, cover it up with soil and organic matter to help it decompose naturally.
Overall, potty camping can be a convenient and hassle-free way to manage your bathroom needs while camping in the great outdoors. By choosing the right portable toilet, practicing good hygiene, and following Leave No Trace principles, you can enjoy a comfortable and environmentally friendly camping experience. So next time you head out for a camping trip, be sure to pack your potty camping essentials and get ready to enjoy the great outdoors in comfort and style.