by Sage Doak

Created on: May 19, 2008

Some of the most rewarding hikes are far from toilet resources. When in nature, nature is sure to call, thus you must be ready. Urinating in general is easier for males but considerations should be made for both sexes. Defecating requires special measures not only for you, but for nature. A small hand shovel is a must have for hiking, it is your own portable toilet hole device. Toilet roll is also essential, but requires care as not to damage the environment.

Privacy is usually one of the first concerns, but it is also the easiest. In dense forest you will not need to travel far to get privacy, when leaving the group make sure you are always within voice reach. If the forest is not very dense your fellow hikers will most likely respect your wishes if you ask them to look away or give you some distance.

Urinating is pretty simple for males. Make sure you don't pee within ten yards of a water source where possible, as it will enter the water source and contaminate it. Try not to pee on plants as well as urine contains many chemicals that may be harmful to the plant and may lead to its death.

Urinating is more difficult for females, but with a good squat and a good stance you should be able to avoid any problems. If you need to wipe, either carry out the paper in a sealable bag or if you must leave it, dig a good sized hole and cover well, animals can dig this up pretty easily and this may lead to many health problems for them. The deeper you go the less likely animals will be attracted to any smells. There are also a few good urinary items available online and in outdoor shops which can make urinating much easier, while I don't recommend or advise any of these, if they work for you, make good use of them.

Defecating is a much bigger task. This is where you shovel will come in handy. Never defecate straight onto the ground. Animals will be attracted to this, and will eat the defecation. This leads to a multitude of health problems. It also won't be good for the next person to come along. Again make sure you are a good ten yards from any water. Dig deep, the deeper the better, make sure you cover it up well, and replace the leaf litter to make it less attractive to animals.

Never try and keep fluids or solids in for an extended period of time. This will lead to health issues. It's important to keep fluid intake up in any physical activity, and this will result in peeing more often. Take these natural occurrences as a way for your body to say that it is healthy and performing well on your trip.

Respect nature and it will respect you.

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