As a backpacker, packing out everything you pack in is essential to leave the wilderness as you found it. But what about toilet paper? Can you bury it? While it may seem like a simple question, the answer is not as straightforward as you may think.
Many backpackers assume that burying toilet paper is a safe and environmentally friendly option. However, burying toilet paper can actually harm the environment and wildlife. In this article, we will explore the potential risks and alternatives to burying toilet paper while backpacking, so you can make an informed decision on your next trip.
Yes, you can bury toilet paper while backpacking. However, it is important to follow Leave No Trace principles and bury the toilet paper at least 6-8 inches deep in a cathole. Make sure to choose a spot at least 200 feet away from water sources and camp areas. Alternatively, you can pack out your used toilet paper in a plastic bag.
Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking?
Why Burying Toilet Paper While Backpacking is Important
When it comes to backpacking, it is essential to practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize the impact on the environment. One of the most important aspects of Leave No Trace is proper disposal of human waste, which includes toilet paper. Burying toilet paper is a common method used by backpackers, but is it actually effective?
Burying toilet paper is important to prevent the spread of disease, protect wildlife, and maintain the natural beauty of the area. Toilet paper takes a long time to decompose and can attract animals, which can lead to further environmental damage. By burying toilet paper, you are helping to prevent the spread of disease and minimizing your impact on the environment.
To properly bury toilet paper, you should dig a small hole at least six to eight inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water sources. Place the used toilet paper in the hole and cover it with dirt. Make sure to pack out any other trash, such as wet wipes or sanitary products.
The Benefits of Burying Toilet Paper While Backpacking
Burying toilet paper while backpacking has several benefits, including reducing the spread of disease, protecting wildlife, and preserving the natural beauty of the area. By burying toilet paper, you are contributing to the overall health of the environment and minimizing your impact on the wilderness.
One of the main benefits of burying toilet paper is that it reduces the spread of disease. Human waste contains harmful bacteria that can cause illness and contaminate water sources. By burying toilet paper, you are helping to prevent the spread of disease and keeping yourself and others healthy.
Burying toilet paper also helps to protect wildlife. Animals can be attracted to the scent of human waste and may become habituated to humans, which can lead to dangerous encounters. By burying toilet paper and disposing of waste properly, you are helping to protect wildlife and maintain a healthy ecosystem.
Burying Toilet Paper vs. Pack It Out
While burying toilet paper is a common method used by backpackers, some people prefer to pack it out instead. Packing out toilet paper involves carrying it with you in a plastic bag or container and disposing of it in a trash can or designated waste disposal area.
Packing out toilet paper can be more effective in areas with high use or sensitive environments, such as alpine or desert regions. In these areas, human waste can take longer to decompose, and burying toilet paper may not be sufficient. Packing out toilet paper ensures that you are leaving no trace and minimizing your impact on the environment.
However, packing out toilet paper can be more cumbersome and require more planning and preparation. It also requires carrying additional weight, which can be a challenge for some backpackers. Ultimately, the decision of whether to bury or pack out toilet paper depends on the individual and the specific conditions of the trip.
Conclusion
Burying toilet paper while backpacking is an essential part of Leave No Trace principles. It helps to prevent the spread of disease, protect wildlife, and maintain the natural beauty of the area. By following proper disposal techniques and burying toilet paper at least 200 feet away from water sources, you are contributing to the overall health of the environment and minimizing your impact on the wilderness. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles when backpacking to minimize your impact on the environment and preserve the wilderness for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Backpacking is a popular outdoor activity that involves carrying all necessary supplies on one’s back while hiking and camping in remote areas. One of the most frequently asked questions by backpackers is whether it is safe to bury toilet paper while backpacking. Here are five questions and answers to help you understand the issue.
Question 1: Is it safe to bury toilet paper while backpacking?
Burying toilet paper is a common practice among backpackers, but it may not always be safe for the environment. If you are camping in a high-use area or in a place with poor soil drainage, burying toilet paper can cause contamination of water sources and damage to the ecosystem. In such cases, it is advisable to pack out used toilet paper and dispose of it properly. However, if you are camping in a remote area with good soil drainage and few hikers, burying toilet paper may be a safe option.
If you do decide to bury toilet paper, make sure to dig a hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from any water sources. After using the toilet, bury the toilet paper and any other waste in the hole and cover it with soil.
Question 2: What are the alternatives to burying toilet paper while backpacking?
If you are concerned about the environmental impact of burying toilet paper, there are several alternatives you can consider. One option is to use a portable toilet or wag bag, which is a plastic bag with a gel that turns liquid waste into a solid. Another option is to use natural materials such as leaves, moss, or rocks to clean yourself after using the toilet. You can also use a small towel or bandana that you can wash and reuse.
Whatever option you choose, make sure to pack out all used materials and dispose of them properly.
Question 3: What are the risks of not burying toilet paper while backpacking?
Not burying toilet paper can have several risks, such as contaminating water sources, attracting animals, and leaving unsightly waste in the environment. Toilet paper can take a long time to decompose, and if it is left on the ground, it can create an eyesore and attract animals that may spread the waste around. In addition, if you do not bury your toilet paper properly, it can contaminate water sources and spread diseases.
To minimize these risks, always bury your toilet paper properly or pack it out with you.
Question 4: How can I pack out used toilet paper while backpacking?
Packing out used toilet paper while backpacking may seem challenging, but it is a necessary step to protect the environment. One way to do this is to use a sealable plastic bag or a specially designed waste bag that can be attached to your backpack. After using the toilet, wrap the toilet paper in another piece of paper or a plastic bag and put it in the waste bag. Make sure to seal the bag securely to prevent any leaks or odors.
When you reach a proper waste disposal site, dispose of the waste bag in a trash receptacle or bury it in a pit toilet.
Question 5: What are the Leave No Trace principles for backpacking?
Leave No Trace is a set of principles that promote responsible outdoor ethics for all types of outdoor activities, including backpacking. The principles are:
1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impact
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors
By following these principles, you can minimize your impact on the environment and help preserve it for future generations.
DON’T MAKE THIS MISTAKE! How to poop like a pro
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to bury your used toilet paper while backpacking, it is not the best practice. Not only can it harm the environment by taking a long time to decompose, but it can also attract animals and spread disease.
Instead, it is recommended to pack out your used toilet paper and dispose of it properly in a waste bag. This may seem like a hassle, but it is a small sacrifice to make to protect the beautiful natural environments we enjoy while backpacking.
Ultimately, being a responsible backpacker means leaving no trace and minimizing our impact on the environment. By following proper waste disposal procedures, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy the same pristine wilderness that we love.
