How Do I Carry My Trash Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When backpacking, it’s essential to always be mindful of your environmental impact. This means not only taking care to leave no trace of your presence but also carrying out all of the trash you create while on the trail. While this may seem like a daunting task at first, it can actually be quite simple with a few helpful tips and techniques.

Choose Your Containers Wisely: When selecting a container for carrying out your trash, consider both the size and weight that you are willing to carry. While larger containers may have more capacity for trash, they can weigh more than smaller containers and add up quickly. Additionally, look for containers that are waterproof and bear-resistant if possible.

Pack Smart: When packing your gear, try to keep all of your trash items together in one container. This will help minimize the amount of waste being carried as well as making it easier to locate within your pack if necessary.

Separate Your Waste: It’s important to separate out any recyclable or compostable material from regular garbage where possible. By doing this, you are helping reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills while ensuring that any recyclable or compostable material is properly disposed of.

Clean As You Go: When preparing meals on the trail, take time before and after each meal to clean up any leftovers or packaging material. This will help prevent animals from being attracted to your campsite and reduce the amount of waste you have to carry with you.

Conclusion:
Carrying our own trash backpacking requires some planning ahead and knowledge about proper disposal methods. With careful selection of containers for carrying out our waste, packing smartly, separating our waste into recyclables/compostables and regular garbage, as well as cleaning up after each meal on the trail–we can do our part in taking care of the environment while enjoying nature!