Waste Disposal
When setting up camp, designate a waste collection area with separate zones for kitchen wastewater, biodegradable waste, and non-biodegradable waste.
Kitchen Wastewater.
Dirty water attracts flies and insects. Pour it into a specially prepared pit. Dig a hole, then place a grid made of long, straight sticks over it. Weave long grass or broad leaves into this grid to create a filter. Pour wastewater through this filter—the debris will be caught on the leaves (which can later be burned or disposed of), and the water will seep into the soil.
Biodegradable Waste (peelings, food scraps).
This waste is easy to dispose of and enriches the soil. Dig a deep pit far from the camp to prevent animals from digging it up. When breaking camp, remember to fill it in. The scraps will decompose into excellent fertilizer. (If you're in a public area where digging is not allowed, collect all waste in bags and take it with you.)
Non-Biodegradable Waste (manufactured items).
You must take all such waste with you. Crush tin cans with your foot, then burn them in the fire to eliminate any food residue that could attract pests. Never burn flashlight batteries. Take them with you and dispose of them in designated battery recycling containers in the city.
Remember, you are only a temporary guest in nature. Leave your campsite spotless for those who come after you.
Washing Dishes and Personal Hygiene
If a stream or river is nearby, you have a natural sink. Use only biodegradable soap. If you don't have any, you'll need to make some yourself.
A Stationary Camp Washstand
For a long-term camp, it's best to build a washstand. You'll need six sticks (about 1 meter long, three with forked ends), a bowl, a piece of canvas, and rope. Construct a frame. Fold the canvas in half and attach it to the frame to create a water chute leading to a dug-out pit. This prevents mud from forming. You can secure the bowl by creating a rope cradle attached to the frame.
A Camp Shower
There are two simple methods:
* Tie a rope to the handle of a watering can and throw it over a tree branch so it can be raised and lowered. Tie the other end to the spout so the person showering can tip it.
* Drill a small hole in the bottom of a bucket, insert a hose with a shower head, fill the bucket with water, and hang it from a branch. "Turn" the shower on and off by inserting or removing the hose from the bucket.
Field Sanitation
The five principles of field sanitation are: fingers, flies, food, fluids, and feces—the primary channels for infection. We've covered the first four. That leaves feces. Everyone has to go, so proper disposal is crucial.
On a hike, you can simply dig a small "cat hole," do your business, and bury it. The same applies to a small temporary camp. However, a large, long-term camp requires a properly organized latrine to handle the volume of waste and prevent disease transmission.
Choosing a Location for the Latrine
Place it downwind and downhill from the camp, as far away from water sources as possible. Choose a shaded, secluded spot if available.
Latrine Construction
It's best to have two separate pits:
* A "Wet" Pit (for urine): 50cm x 50cm x 50cm. Line the bottom with stones for drainage.
* A "Dry" Pit (for feces): 90cm x 30cm x 60cm. Keep the excavated soil piled beside it. After each use, cover the waste with a shovelful of soil to suppress odor and speed up decomposition.
Erect a simple privacy screen using a tarp stretched between poles. You don't necessarily need a seat; squatting over the pit is effective. Use only biodegradable toilet paper and store it in a dry place, not in the latrine.
Important: Do not use chemical disinfectants in the pit, as they kill the beneficial microorganisms that break down waste. When the pit is 3/4 full (about 15 cm from the top), fill it in completely and dig a new one. Always wash or sanitize your hands with alcohol-based gel after using the latrine.
Staying Clean on the Trail
When hiking all day and making temporary camps, hygiene routines are simpler but no less important.
* Washing Up: Cut the bottom off a plastic bottle to create a lightweight washbasin. A small sponge and a minimal amount of water are enough for a quick clean.
* Disinfection: Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is essential. It can also be used on a cotton pad to wipe down areas where bacteria accumulate (armpits, feet, groin) when water is scarce.
* Sanitation: Always carry a small trowel. Dig a "cat hole" at least 60 meters away from water sources and trails, use it, and bury everything thoroughly. Burn or pack out used toilet paper.
Useful Tip: Don't throw away used cotton pads soaked in alcohol gel—they make excellent fire starters for your campfire.
Next guide: Teamwork: How to Make a Hike Successful Previous guide: Personal Hygiene in Camping Conditions You can view the full list here: Survival Guides for the Mountains
