There is a perception that unsanitary conditions are inevitable on a hike. However, dirt underfoot and natural cleanliness are different things. In nature, you can and should maintain hygiene, its rules are just slightly different from those at home. The key to health while traveling is proper care of your body, feet, and teeth.
Body Cleanliness
The main risk factor for the skin is excess moisture. Areas where it accumulates (armpits, feet, scalp) create a favorable environment for bacteria. These areas should be washed daily if access to water is available.
Practical Tips:
* When water is scarce, opt for lightweight, breathable clothing. Sunlight is an excellent natural antiseptic for drying the skin.
* As an alternative to soap, you can use fine sand, clay, or wood ash. If needed, you can even make a soap-like substance from ash and animal fat.
* Clothing soaked in sweat is just as risky as damp skin. Dry it in the sun at the first opportunity. The same rule applies to sleeping bags and other gear: regular airing prevents unpleasant odors and mold.
Foot Care
A hike ruined by foot problems is an unfortunate reality. The main goal is to keep your feet dry and clean.
How to Avoid Problems:
* Wash and thoroughly dry your feet every evening to prevent cracks and fungal infections.
* To prevent blisters, use a two-sock system: a thin synthetic liner (to wick moisture) and a thick woolen sock (for cushioning).
* At the first sign of chafing (burning, redness), stop immediately, dry your foot, and apply a patch to the affected area.
* Never pop a blister that has formed — the fluid inside protects the skin. If it bursts on its own, treat it like any other abrasion.
* Give your feet a break: change into lightweight, ventilated shoes at the campsite.
Oral Hygiene
A toothbrush is a must-have in your backpack. If you do forget it, a folk method can help: chew the end of a clean twig from a walnut or alder tree until it frays into a brush-like tip. It's best to brush your teeth with boiled or filtered water.
Don't neglect dental floss either. Its spool is almost weightless, but the benefits are significant: cleaning between teeth is often more important than brushing alone. My personal experience is the best proof: fellow mountaineers used to joke about my floss in the mountains, but now their teeth are filled with fillings, while mine are not.
Following these simple rules will allow you to maintain strength, health, and good spirits throughout your journey.
Next guide: Maintaining General Hygiene on a Camping Trip Previous guide: "Iron" Rations: What to Take on a Hike for an Emergency You can view the full list here: Survival Guides for the Mountains
