How Do You Pack Out Human Waste While Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is an incredible way to explore nature and take in its beauty. Unfortunately, it also means that you need to be prepared for dealing with human waste when nature calls. Knowing how to properly pack out human waste while backpacking is an important skill for any outdoor enthusiast, and there are a few easy steps to follow in order to do it safely and responsibly.

1. Choose a Proper Container – The first step is choosing the right container for packing out your waste.

A sealable plastic bag or container with a lid should be used so that there are no odors or spills while carrying your waste. Make sure that the container can be securely closed and won’t leak if tipped over.

2. Pack Out Waste Separately – It is important to pack out solid and liquid wastes separately. For solid waste, use a biodegradable bag such as a “poop tube”, which can easily fit into a backpack pocket or side pouch and will break down over time when disposed of properly.

3. Dispose of Waste Responsibly – Once you have packed out your human waste, it needs to be disposed of properly in order to protect the environment.

Solid waste should be buried at least six inches deep away from water sources, trails, campsites, or any other areas where people may come into contact with it. Liquid wastes should not be buried, but rather disposed of in toilets or other designated disposal sites.

4. Clean Up Properly – Lastly, after disposing of your human waste responsibly you must clean up any residual mess that was left behind.

This includes wiping down surfaces such as toilet seats with biodegradable wipes before packing them up into your container and sealing it shut.

Conclusion:

Packing out human waste while backpacking requires some preparation and responsibility on the part of the backpacker in order to ensure that no harm comes to wildlife or other visitors in the area. By following these simple steps – choosing the right container, packing out solid and liquid wastes separately, disposing of it responsibly and cleaning up properly – you can help protect the environment while still enjoying all that nature has to offer!