If you know me in real life you will know that I have not been a fan of camping, but that recently I realised that if done properly, it isn’t as bad as I thought but the personal hygiene aspect of camping is a bugbear of mine so I thought I would share some basic hygiene tips for camping that have made me feel more comfortable when I have to call a tent my temporary home and share toilet facilities with other people at a campsite or with mother nature.
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Camping can be great fun, a cheaper way to enjoy a family break or time with friends, or to spend time in nature or when travelling.
One of my bugbears about camping is the personal hygiene issue. I don’t enjoy sharing a toilet facility with lots of other people and I don’t particularly like not being able to wash properly. Some of these things can be managed and some of them you have to adapt to. But the last thing you want is to get sick whilst camping and there is that risk, so here’s some things that I have found that help to manage and minimise that.
Washing your hands
Keeping your hands clean is crucial to prevent the spread of germs. Always pack plenty of hand sanitiser *, especially one with alcohol content. Use it frequently, particularly before eating and after using the toilet. If water is available, wash your hands with soap and water. Carry soap*, for when you want to use soap and water, or can, that’s gentle on the environment.
Oral Care
Maintaining oral hygiene is easy with a few simple steps. Bring a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, just as you would at home. If water is scarce, use a small amount of drinking water for brushing and rinsing. Spit the toothpaste into a waste bag to avoid contaminating the environment.
Body Cleansing
Staying clean while camping is vital, especially during long trips. Pack biodegradable wet wipes* for quick body cleanses or you can use washable ones and store them in a wet bag to wash when you finish camping. These are handy when water is not readily available. If you have access to a water source, consider taking a portable solar shower or simply using a water bottle to rinse off. A lightweight, quick-drying microfiber towel is perfect for drying off after a wash.
Hair Care
Keeping your hair clean can be a bit more challenging in the wilderness. Dry shampoo is a great option to freshen up without water. Alternatively, you can use a bandana or hat to keep your hair under control and reduce the need for frequent washing. If you’re near a stream or lake, a quick rinse can help, but always use biodegradable soap to protect the environment.
Toilet Practices
Handling toilet needs hygienically is crucial. If the campsite has facilities, use them properly and keep them clean for others. For wild camping, bring a small trowel to dig a cat hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources. After use, cover the hole with soil. Pack out all used toilet paper and hygiene products in a sealable plastic bag to dispose of properly later.
Menstrual Hygiene
For those who menstruate, managing periods while camping requires some planning. Menstrual cups, reusable pads, or period underwear are environmentally friendly options. If using tampons or disposable pads, bring enough to last the entire trip and carry a resealable bag for used products. Practice the same disposal methods as with other waste to keep the campsite clean.
Cooking and Eating
Good hygiene around food is essential to avoid illness. Always wash your hands or use hand sanitiser before handling food. Bring biodegradable soap and a small sponge for cleaning utensils and dishes. Use boiling water to sanitise cooking tools if necessary. Store food in airtight containers to protect it from animals and insects.
Foot Care
Proper foot hygiene prevents blisters and infections. Change into clean, dry socks daily and let your feet air out when possible. If your feet get wet, dry them thoroughly to prevent fungal infections. Bring a small tub of foot powder or antifungal cream as a precaution.
Waste Management
Keeping your campsite clean is part of good hygiene. Always pack out all your rubbish, including food scraps and hygiene products. Bring several sealable plastic bags for waste and dispose of them properly once you return to civilisation. Following the principle of “leave no trace” ensures that the environment remains pristine for future campers.
Camping should be fun and a great time to make memories, exploring new places, relaxing or spending time with friends and family. If you plan carefully and stick to a few basic hygiene rules to keep yourself and everyone else safe, it will definately make camping life smoother and not leave your memories tainted with illness or make you not want to go camping again.