Hygiene Handbook: Getting Down and Dirty (But Still Clean) While Overlanding

Maintaining personal hygiene on-the-go and off-the-grid.

The word “overlanding” has come to mean different things to different people over the years. But whether your interpretation looks like a weekend in the sticks or a month-long journey into the Great Unknown, a major consideration before you hit the road should be where you’re going to go – to the bathroom, that is.

When overlanding (or car camping, or boondocking, or taking the Subaru to that one big empty field), it’s easy to get caught up in the vehicle prep, or what equipment you need on hand. Of equal importance, though, is hygiene.

Look, the human body can be a pretty disgusting thing – especially after hours spent inside a vehicle and days, possibly weeks, on the road. Staying clean is crucial to your well-being, ensuring you can stave off illness and infection. It’s also key to your comfort. “Feeling good” is tough when you’re covered in dirt and sweat, or worrying what the protocol is for very necessary biological functions.

The solution? Like any resourceful traveler, you need a plan. Nothing crazy, but definitely some practical tips to follow and convenient products to turn to, so you can stay clean on-the-go. Lucky for you, we’ve got both bases covered right here.

Waste Management

Let’s start by addressing the big, awkward elephant in the room. Or, well, in the vehicle. Where do you go to the bathroom?

First, it’s important to remember that, aside from your own health, hygiene, and personal comfort, you have Mother Nature to think about. The world may be your oyster, but it’s not your porcelain throne. When left untreated or disposed of incorrectly, human waste can do some seriously destructive things to the planet – like contaminating water sources, polluting soil, and introducing harmful bacteria and pathogens into the ecosystem.

Pit Stops

Remember when your mom would insist you use the bathroom before leaving the house, even if you “didn’t have to go”? Follow Mom’s advice and try anyway.

Seriously – take advantage of every flushing toilet you meet along your journey. You don’t know the next time you’ll see indoor plumbing. Gas stations, grocery stores, libraries, and community centers are all usually pretty relaxed about letting folks use the facilities. Just remember to pack some TP and sanitizing wipes, as not every place will meet your standards for cleanliness.

Portable Potties

Designed for outdoor use, these little camping toilets come in various sizes and styles. They are self-contained, easy to set up and clean, and provide a convenient and sanitary solution for going on-the-go. While some are little more than a bucket with a toilet seat, others offer a flushing mechanism and waste tank. Both styles are surprisingly affordable.

For less than $200, you can pick up a residential-looking Thetford portable toilet that is not only odorless and leak proof (obviously important features to have), but also has an integrated toilet paper holder, battery-powered flush, and comfortable seat height that won’t kill your knees. In our opinion, this would be money well spent. Other names that have good reputations in this arena are Dometic, SeaFlo, and Reliance Outdoors.

Waste Alleviation and Gelling Bags or WAG Bags

If you’re on a tighter budget – or significantly tighter space – then check out a WAG bag. Odor-proof, leak-proof, and easy to use, these biodegradable human waste bags make the going a little awkward but the clean-up a breeze.

Some bags work with waterless portable commodes to catch waste, while others unfold so you can do your business and then seal it up. Regardless, the point is to collect human waste and stifle the smell so you can properly dispose of it when available. This obviously makes them very convenient hygiene solution for long-distance overlanding, since they allow you to turn just about any location into a safe bathroom (even protected environments).

We urge any camper or overlander to keep a pack of WAG bags in the glove box just in case. As these are a popular option for campers, kayakers, mountain climbers, and other outdoor enthusiasts who really need to embody the ‘pack in, pack out’ mentality, you can find them at just about any camping or sporting goods store. RESTOP, Biffy Bag, and Nice Climbs are all top-rated brands in this department.

Catholes

If you’re really roughing it, then grab your shovel – it’s time to dig a cathole!

Per the experts at X Overland, a cathole should be at least 200 ft (or roughly 70 adult paces) away from any water sources to prevent contamination. The hole should be about 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide. (However, if you’re in the desert, where waste doesn’t break down as easily, the hole should only be about 4-6 inches deep so the hot sun can work its magic.)

When you’re all done, make like a kitty and cover the cathole. Fill it in with dirt and then disguise it with organic materials. Leave no trace, friends.

Staying Fresh & Clean

Now that you have a protocol in place for where to go while on-the-go, you can breathe a little easier. Oof, or can you?

Let’s be honest, body odor is probably going to the be the least of your hygiene worries when overlanding. There’s a good chance you just pooped in a bag, for Pete’s sake. Regardless, no one wants to travel the world smelling like a 14th century peasant. There’s a reason those folks barely lived past 30, and it wasn’t from all the wild fun they were having.

Staying clean means staying healthy. Thankfully, this side of the market has really come a long way, with a variety of options that are a little more accommodating than the aforementioned poop baggies.

Pit Stops

Obvious, but worth reiterating – seize those indoor plumbing opportunities. If you’re passing through a busy area, you may come across a truck stop or travel center with shower facilities. Similarly, there may be campgrounds nearby with available facilities that you can access for a small fee.

Just remember, while the bathroom sink may be tempting at the rest area, public bathing is a no-go. (And for good reason. There are some images permanently seared in my mind, and watching a grown adult bathe in an interstate rest area is absolutely one of them.) Instead, use the chance to wash your face and hands, and give your teeth a good and thorough brushing.

Waterless Hygiene Solutions

Water is precious when traveling, so it’s wise to have alternative options available such as dry shampoos and body wipes on hand. Even if you have easy access to shower facilities, these products are great for supplementing your regular bathing routine.

Dry shampoos contain a collection of ingredients designed to absorb oil and add a little volume to your hair, but they can sometimes leave a lot of dry, cakey residue behind. For that reason, we suggest sticking to brands with natural ingredients. Not only will it be a little gentler on your scalp, but also the environment.

As for wipes, there are many, many brands to choose from. Stick to something biodegradable if you can, and consider an option that is lower on alcohol, as it will dry out your skin. Wipes with witch hazel and aloe are nice to have around, as they can also be used to reduce irritating bug bites or sunburn.

To maximize effectiveness and prevent a pile of useless, dried-out wipes, keep them in a resealable bag or container. And, of course, if you’re in a remote area without proper waste disposal facilities, pack used wipes in a sealable bag and carry them with you until you can dispose of them properly.

Portable Showers

This corner of the market has really exploded in recent years, which means you have a lot of high-quality and versatile hygiene options for staying fresh and clean.

• Solar-Powered Showers. Simple and effective, these showers utilize the sun’s energy to heat water stored in a bag for a warm and refreshing shower. Many are gravity-fed, but some use a manual or electric pump to create better pressure. These are generally the most affordable options. As such, the water usually skews more warm than hot and pressure is on the low side.

• Portable Propane Showers. Providing a little more comfort, these showers connect to a propane tank and use a heating element to warm up water for more powerful heat. Keep in mind an external water source is necessary, whether that’s a bucket or a nearby river/lake. Additionally, pressure is provided from the pump at the water source, so if that’s underpowered, the water pressure in your shower will be too.

• Portable Pressurized Showers. Typically more expensive, these options utilize a pump to push out water with pressure. The most modern types use battery power to create a consistent and powerful flow, and while they don’t usually have built-in heaters, you can purchase an immersion rod to provide the best of both worlds.

Portable showers can get expensive quickly, so be sure to read reviews and compare models to find one that meets your requirements. Some brands, like RinseKit, have generous try-before-you-buy programs.

Whichever option you choose, remember that water conservation is important. Consider turning the water off when you’re lathering, and only use it to rinse. And if you have long hair, invest in some of that aforementioned dry shampoo and a good baseball cap to buy some time in between showers.

Lakes, Rivers, Oceans

About 71% of earth’s surface is water, so there’s a good chance you can find a lake, river, or beach along your travels. Take a deep breath and jump on in — but leave the soap behind. There’s no treatment facility to filter your waste water, and that soap could have some negative environmental effects. Try a good coarse sponge instead to scrub off any gunk you’ve accumulated during your trip, and let Mother Nature take care of the rest.

Other Overlanding Hygiene Considerations

In addition to bathing and using the bathroom, there are other personal hygiene considerations that overlanders should keep in mind when prepping for an off-grid adventure.

• Laundry. Limited access to laundry facilities means clean clothing will be at a premium. To stay fresh, opt for quick-dry, moisture-wicking clothing that requires less frequent washing, and be sure to pack extra socks and undies to extend time between laundry days. Portable wash bags are a great option since they roll up for easy storage when not in use. Just remember to pack biodegradable detergent to minimize environmental impact.

• Dental Care. The last thing you want while out exploring the world is a tooth infection. Keep on top of oral heath with regular brushing and flossing. As for mouthwash, many formulas can be tough on the environment so look for one that does not contain alcohol, fluoride, artificial colors, or sweeteners.

• Foot Care. Keeping feet clean and dry is essential to preventing discomfort and potential issues like blisters or fungal infections. Regularly change those socks and consider using baby powder to help keep feet fresh. Air out your shoes when you’re not wearing them.

• Skincare. Beyond keeping your skin clean, you want to keep it safe. Sunscreen is your friend – yes, even if you aren’t headed to a particularly hot environment and even if you’re spending a lot of time in the vehicle. Lip balm and moisturizer are good to have on hand as well.

• Hand Hygiene. Last but certainly not least, proper handwashing with soap and water is crucial to maintaining overall health by preventing the spread of germs.