How Do You Not Smell When Backpacking?

By Robert Palmer

When you’re on the road, you want to make sure that you look and smell your best. As a backpacker, this can be a difficult task since you don’t have access to the same amenities as when at home. However, there are some simple steps that can be taken to ensure that you don’t smell when backpacking.

Shower Regularly: The most important step you can take in order to ensure that you don’t smell while backpacking is showering regularly. This means taking a cold shower or bath every few days if possible, or even more often depending on your activity level and the climate of your destination. Additionally, it is recommended to use body wipes between showers to keep yourself feeling fresh and clean throughout your travels.

Change Clothes Often: Another key component of not smelling while backpacking is changing clothes regularly. This means wearing fresh clothes each day and not re-wearing them for multiple days in a row.

If possible, try to keep two sets of clothes with you so that one can be washed while the other is being worn. Additionally, bring along extra socks and underwear so that these items can be switched out daily as well.

Carry Deodorant: Along with showering regularly and changing clothes often, it is also important to carry deodorant with you during your travels. This will help to mask any odors that may linger due to sweat or other activities such as hiking or swimming in natural bodies of water. There are many types of deodorants available such as roll-on sticks, sprays, gels and solid blocks which all have different levels of effectiveness depending on the individual’s needs and preferences.

Maintain Hygiene: Finally, it is important to maintain good hygiene while backpacking in order to reduce body odor from occurring in the first place. This means brushing teeth twice daily with toothpaste containing fluoride, flossing regularly and using mouthwash whenever possible in order to eliminate any bacteria which may cause bad breath or odors from coming through your pores during physical activity or sleeping at night. Additionally, trimming fingernails and keeping them clean will help prevent any dirt or bacteria from getting under them which could cause bad odors as well as general discomfort for both yourself and those around you.

Conclusion: With these simple steps in mind anyone can reduce their chance of smelling while backpacking; shower regularly, change clothes often, carry deodorant and maintain good hygiene habits throughout the duration of their trip.