What to Do with Toilet Paper in the Backcountry: A Comprehensive Guide to Leave No Trace

Picture this: you’ve just finished a glorious hike, the kind where the views stretch for miles and the air is crisp with the scent of pine. You’re feeling rejuvenated, at peace. Then, nature calls. Suddenly, the idyllic scene is interrupted by a very practical, and frankly, somewhat daunting, question: what do I do with my used toilet paper out here in the vast wilderness? It’s a question that has probably crossed the minds of every backpacker, camper, and outdoor enthusiast at some point, and one that’s crucial for preserving the very beauty we seek.

The answer to "what to do with toilet paper in the backcountry" is, at its core, about responsible stewardship of the natural world. The most widely accepted and environmentally sound practice is to **pack it out**. This means treating your used toilet paper as you would any other trash – bagging it up and carrying it with you until you can dispose of it properly in a designated waste receptacle.

I’ve been there myself, fumbling through my pack on a multi-day trek, trying to find a suitable place for that small, rolled-up bundle. It’s not the most glamorous part of backcountry adventuring, but it’s a fundamental tenet of Leave No Trace principles, and for good reason. Letting toilet paper linger in the environment can have a surprisingly significant impact on wildlife, water sources, and the overall aesthetic appeal of our cherished wild places. This article will delve deep into why this practice is so vital, explore various methods and tools for managing your backcountry waste, and provide you with the knowledge and confidence to handle this common backcountry dilemma with environmental grace.

The Why Behind Packing It Out: Protecting Our Wild Places

Before we get into the ‘how,’ it’s essential to understand the ‘why.’ Why is packing out toilet paper so important? It boils down to minimizing our impact and ensuring that others can enjoy the same pristine environments we do. Here’s a breakdown of the key reasons:

Environmental Contamination: While toilet paper might seem benign, it’s not designed to break down rapidly in all natural conditions. In cold, dry, or compacted soils, it can persist for a long time, looking out of place and detracting from the natural beauty. More importantly, even biodegradable toilet paper can still contain dyes and perfumes that may not be ideal for delicate ecosystems. Human waste itself, while natural, can introduce pathogens to water sources, and toilet paper acts as a vehicle for this contamination.
Wildlife Attraction and Disruption: Animals are naturally drawn to scents and potential food sources. Exposed toilet paper, even if buried, can still emit odors that attract wildlife. This can lead to animals becoming habituated to human presence and waste, which can disrupt their natural behaviors, lead them to become nuismore bold around campsites, and even cause them to ingest non-food items, with potentially harmful consequences.
Aesthetic Degradation: Nothing spoils a breathtaking view quite like spotting a wadded-up piece of toilet paper clinging to a bush or peeking out from under a rock. It’s a visual reminder of human presence that detracts from the natural serenity we seek in the backcountry. Maintaining the wild character of an area is a cornerstone of responsible outdoor ethics.
Impact on Water Quality: Toilet paper, especially when used near water sources, can easily be washed into streams, rivers, and lakes. Even small amounts can contribute to pollution, potentially affecting aquatic life and the quality of drinking water for downstream users. While specific guidelines often advise on proper human waste disposal (catholes), the toilet paper issue is distinct and requires a more direct approach to prevent any contamination.
Sanitation Concerns: Burying toilet paper, while seemingly a solution, isn’t always effective, especially in rocky or shallow soil. It can be unearthed by animals or weather, reappearing where it shouldn’t. Furthermore, the act of burying requires a cathole, and if toilet paper is included, it increases the volume of waste that needs to be properly managed.

My own experiences have reinforced these points. I once hiked through a popular backcountry trail where, despite posted signage, instances of improperly disposed-of toilet paper were distressingly common. It marred the experience for me and many others. It's a stark reminder that our collective actions, even seemingly minor ones, have a ripple effect.

The Core Principle: Pack It Out, Every Single Time

This is the golden rule for toilet paper in the backcountry: pack it out. This approach aligns perfectly with the Leave No Trace principle of “Dispose of Waste Properly,” which in its entirety, emphasizes carrying out all that you carry in. This includes food scraps, wrappers, and yes, your used toilet paper.

The simplicity of the message is its strength. It leaves little room for ambiguity. You use it, you bag it, you carry it. It might sound a bit… unappealing at first thought, but with the right tools and mindset, it becomes a routine, no different than packing out your granola bar wrappers.

Methods for Packing Out Toilet Paper

So, how do you actually execute the "pack it out" strategy? It requires a bit of preparation and the right gear. Here are the most effective methods:

The Dedicated Waste Bag: This is the most common and recommended method. You’ll need a dedicated, sealable bag to store your used toilet paper. Many hikers opt for a brightly colored, waterproof, and odor-proof bag. Some popular choices include:
- Ziploc Bags: Sturdy, readily available, and inexpensive. For added odor control, you can double-bag.
- Nalgene Containers: While bulky, a wide-mouth Nalgene can be an excellent, durable, and completely odor-proof container for a day or two’s worth of waste.
- Specialized Waste Bags: Companies now produce bags specifically designed for carrying out human waste and toilet paper. These often feature advanced odor-blocking technology and are typically more robust than standard Ziploc bags. Look for products marketed for backcountry waste management.
The Double Bagging Technique: For enhanced odor control and to prevent any potential leaks, many seasoned hikers swear by double bagging. Place your used toilet paper in a small Ziploc bag, seal it, and then place that bag into a larger, second Ziploc bag, again sealing it securely.
Pre-Bagging for Ease: Some people find it helpful to pre-pack a few small Ziploc bags (or even small kitchen garbage bags) into their daypack or hip belt pockets. This makes it quick and easy to transfer your used toilet paper into a designated waste bag without having to dig through your main pack.

My Personal Experience with the Waste Bag: I remember my first backpacking trip where packing out toilet paper was a non-negotiable rule. I was a bit apprehensive about the smell and the general ‘ick’ factor. I started with a simple Ziploc bag and a bit of mental preparation. To my surprise, it wasn’t nearly as bad as I’d imagined. The key was using a good quality bag, sealing it immediately, and keeping it in an outer pocket of my pack, not directly inside with my food. Over time, it became a simple, ingrained part of my backcountry routine. Now, I prefer using a dedicated odor-proof bag specifically designed for this purpose – it offers that extra peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Toilet Paper (and Alternatives)

While the goal is to pack out all toilet paper, the type of paper you choose can still make a difference in terms of bulk and how it feels to handle.

Biodegradable Toilet Paper: If you must use toilet paper, opt for specialized biodegradable, unbleached, and unscented varieties designed for camping and backpacking. These are engineered to break down more readily than conventional toilet paper. However, it’s crucial to remember that "biodegradable" does not mean "leave it behind." It still needs to be packed out.
Leave It Behind (The Unmarked Exception): Some very light-weight, specially designed backpacking toilet papers are marketed as being able to be buried (along with human waste) in catholes IF and ONLY IF the conditions are right (deep soil, ample moisture, and away from water sources). However, this is a more controversial and nuanced aspect of Leave No Trace, and many organizations, including the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, strongly advocate for packing out all toilet paper regardless of type, as the conditions for proper decomposition are rarely guaranteed in a backcountry setting. To err on the side of caution and to ensure you always adhere to the strictest interpretation of Leave No Trace, packing it out is always the safest bet.
Alternatives to Toilet Paper: Many experienced backpackers have adopted alternatives to toilet paper, which can significantly reduce the volume of waste you need to carry out.
- The Bandana Method: A piece of absorbent cloth, like a bandana or a designated “poo rag,” can be used for wiping. After use, it’s typically rinsed (if water is available and it’s permissible to do so away from water sources) or wiped clean with a small amount of natural material (like a broad leaf), then sealed in a separate waste bag. This method requires a strong stomach and a commitment to hygiene.
- Leaves and Natural Materials: In a true survival situation, or if absolutely no other option is available, large, soft leaves (like mullein, which is sometimes called “cowboy toilet paper”) or smooth stones can be used. However, this is generally not recommended for regular backcountry use due to potential for irritation, and it’s still best practice to pack out any artificial materials used, such as plastic bags if you must use them to carry these materials.
- Trowel and Cathole (for Human Waste Only): For human waste itself, the widely accepted Leave No Trace method is to dig a cathole at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) away from water sources, trails, and campsites. The cathole should be 6-8 inches deep. After depositing waste, thoroughly cover the cathole with the original soil. This method is primarily for the waste itself, and the toilet paper is still packed out.

I personally tried the bandana method for a while, and while it's incredibly effective at reducing waste, the cleaning and storage aspect can be a bit… challenging, especially on longer trips where repeated use and washing become a factor. For most recreational backpackers, a good quality, sealable waste bag for toilet paper is the most practical and widely accepted solution.

Essential Gear for Managing Backcountry Toilet Paper Waste

Being prepared is key. Having the right gear will make managing your toilet paper waste a seamless and even discreet process. Here’s what you should consider:

The Waste Bag System:

Odor-Proof Bags: Invest in bags specifically designed to contain odors. These are often made of heavy-duty plastic with a specialized seal. Brands like EarthPacks or CleanWaste are good examples.
Heavy-Duty Ziploc Bags: If specialized bags aren't available, opt for the thickest freezer Ziploc bags you can find. Double-bagging is highly recommended.
Small Sealable Container: A small, waterproof container with a secure lid, like a small Nalgene bottle or a sturdy plastic food container, can be an excellent, durable option for shorter trips.
WAG Bags (Waste Alleviation and Gelling): These are specialized bags that contain a gelling agent and often a deodorant. They are designed to solidify liquid waste and contain odors, making them a convenient option for both human waste and toilet paper. They are particularly useful in areas where packing out solid waste is mandated.

Toilet Paper Itself:

Small Roll of Biodegradable Toilet Paper: If you choose to use toilet paper, buy a small, travel-sized roll of 100% biodegradable, unbleached, and unscented paper. You can often find these at outdoor gear stores.
Pre-Cut Squares: Some people prefer to pre-cut squares of toilet paper and store them in a separate waterproof bag. This can help manage the amount you bring and keep it dry.

Hygiene Supplies:

Hand Sanitizer: Absolutely essential for cleaning your hands after any bathroom activity in the backcountry.
Small Trowel: While not directly for toilet paper, it’s crucial for digging catholes for human waste, which is often done in conjunction with using toilet paper.
Biodegradable Soap (Use Sparingly and Away from Water): If you use soap to wash your hands, ensure it’s biodegradable and use it at least 200 feet away from any water source.

Packing Strategies:

Outer Pack Pocket: Many hikers designate an outer pocket on their backpack or a hip belt pocket for their used waste bag. This keeps any potential odors contained and easily accessible.
Designated Bag within the Pack: If an outer pocket isn't feasible, keep your sealed waste bag in a larger, sturdy bag within your pack, perhaps in a less critical compartment.

Step-by-Step Guide: The Backcountry Bathroom Routine

Let’s break down the process for using the bathroom and managing your toilet paper in the backcountry, ensuring you adhere to Leave No Trace principles.

Step 1: Preparation is Key

Before you even head out, ensure you have the necessary gear:

A designated, sealable waste bag (odor-proof is best).
A small roll of toilet paper (if you choose to use it).
Hand sanitizer.
A small trowel (for digging catholes).
Consider a small, sealable bag for your used toilet paper, even if it’s a Ziploc, to keep it separate within your main waste bag.

Step 2: Finding a Suitable Location

When nature calls, prioritize:

Distance from Water: Find a spot at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) away from any streams, rivers, lakes, or other water sources. This is paramount to prevent water contamination.
Distance from Trails and Campsites: Choose a location that is not visible or easily accessible from trails or established campsites. Aim for a secluded spot.
Durable Surfaces: Whenever possible, choose areas with durable surfaces like packed dirt or rocks, rather than sensitive vegetation.

Step 3: Digging Your Cathole (for Human Waste)

If you are depositing human waste:

Use your trowel to dig a cathole that is 6-8 inches deep and about 4-6 inches wide.
Place the excavated soil to the side.

Step 4: Using the Bathroom and Toilet Paper

This is where the "pack it out" principle comes into play for your toilet paper:

Use toilet paper sparingly.
After wiping, place the used toilet paper directly into your pre-prepared waste bag or your designated Ziploc bag. Do NOT leave it on the ground.
If you’ve used a trowel for human waste, deposit your waste into the cathole.
Do NOT use toilet paper to cover your cathole. The original soil is best for this.

Step 5: Cleaning Up and Sealing Waste

Once you’re finished:

Wipe your hands thoroughly with hand sanitizer.
If you used human waste in a cathole, carefully backfill the hole with the original soil, making it appear as undisturbed as possible.
Securely seal your waste bag containing the used toilet paper. If you’re using Ziploc bags, double-check the seal.

Step 6: Carrying Out Your Waste

This is the crucial final step:

Place your sealed waste bag in an accessible outer pocket of your backpack or in a designated area within your pack.
Carry this waste out with you until you reach a proper trash receptacle. This means a garbage can at a trailhead, campsite, or your home. Do NOT bury or burn your used toilet paper.

It sounds like a lot, but with practice, this entire routine becomes second nature, taking only a few minutes. The commitment to Leave No Trace makes the effort entirely worthwhile.

Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

I’ve heard a lot of questions and seen some confusion around the topic of backcountry toilet paper management. Let’s tackle some of the most common ones:

"Isn't biodegradable toilet paper okay to bury?"

This is a common misconception. While biodegradable toilet paper is designed to break down, it doesn't do so instantly, especially in the varied conditions of the backcountry (cold temperatures, dry soil, compacted soil, etc.). Burying it doesn't guarantee it will decompose quickly or completely, and it can still be unearthed by animals or weather. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and most reputable outdoor organizations strongly advise packing out ALL toilet paper, regardless of its type. The risk of negative impact from improperly decomposed toilet paper is too high to assume it will just disappear.

"What about the smell? Isn't that going to be awful?"

This is often the biggest mental hurdle for people. However, with the right tools, the smell can be surprisingly well-managed. Here's how:

Use quality odor-proof bags. These are specifically designed to trap odors.
Seal your waste immediately. The longer it sits exposed, the more likely odors are to develop.
Double-bagging provides an extra layer of containment.
Keep the waste bag in an outer pocket of your pack. This prevents any potential odors from permeating your main pack.
Consider using a dedicated WAG bag. These often have gelling agents and deodorizers.

Honestly, after a day or two, the odor becomes much less noticeable, especially when sealed properly. It’s far less offensive than the visual impact of discarded toilet paper, and infinitely better than the health and environmental risks of leaving it behind.

"What if I don't have a bag with me?"

This is a situation where preparedness truly matters. If you’re venturing into the backcountry, you should always have a way to carry out your trash, which includes toilet paper. If, by some rare oversight, you find yourself without a bag, here are your options, ranked from best to worst:

Improvise a bag: Look for any sturdy, sealable plastic item in your pack that can be repurposed. A spare dry bag, a sturdy food bag, or even carefully sealed wrappers from non-food items can sometimes be used to create a temporary containment.
Use a reusable bandana (and commit to cleaning it thoroughly later): If you have a bandana or cloth, you can use it for wiping, then store it in a separate, sealed plastic bag you might have for other purposes. You’ll then need to wash this bandana thoroughly and discreetly when you get home.
If absolutely no other option exists and you are in a true emergency, use natural materials: In a dire situation, you might have to resort to using leaves or other natural materials. However, this should be an absolute last resort, and you should still aim to pack out any artificial materials you might have used.

The best solution is to always carry a few extra Ziploc bags or a dedicated waste bag. It’s a small item that makes a huge difference.

"Is it really that bad to bury toilet paper with human waste?"

While the human waste itself can be managed with catholes (when done correctly), adding toilet paper complicates the decomposition process and increases the likelihood of it being exposed. The volume it adds to the cathole can also hinder proper decomposition. Furthermore, even biodegradable toilet paper isn't always universally suitable for all soil types and climates found in the backcountry. The safest and most environmentally responsible approach is to pack out the toilet paper separately.

Responsible Disposal of Your Packed-Out Waste

So, you’ve successfully packed out your used toilet paper. Congratulations! But your responsibility isn't over yet. Proper disposal at the end of your trip is just as important.

Trash Receptacles: The best place to dispose of your packed-out waste is in a designated trash receptacle. This is typically found at trailheads, established campgrounds, visitor centers, or at your home.
Do NOT Leave it on the Trailhead: It’s tempting to leave your waste bag by a trash can if it’s overflowing, but this can attract animals and create a mess. If the bin is full, take your waste with you until you find another option.
Burning is Not Recommended: While some might suggest burning toilet paper, it’s generally not a good idea. It doesn't always burn completely, can produce unpleasant odors, and it’s difficult to ensure it’s fully extinguished, posing a fire risk.
Burying is NOT an Option: As we’ve discussed, burying toilet paper is not an effective or responsible disposal method in the backcountry.

I’ve made it a habit to bring my packed-out waste all the way home if I can’t find a suitable trash receptacle at the trailhead. It’s a small inconvenience for the peace of mind that I’ve done my part to keep the wilderness clean.

The Broader Context: Leave No Trace Principles and Backcountry Etiquette

Understanding what to do with toilet paper in the backcountry is a fundamental part of a larger ethical framework: Leave No Trace (LNT). These seven principles are designed to help outdoor enthusiasts minimize their impact on the natural world. They are:

Plan Ahead and Prepare: This includes knowing regulations, weather forecasts, and being prepared with the right gear, such as waste bags.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on trails, camp in designated areas, and avoid trampling vegetation.
Dispose of Waste Properly: This is where packing out toilet paper falls. It also includes packing out all trash and managing human waste responsibly.
Leave What You Find: Do not take natural objects or disturb historical artifacts.
Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use established fire rings, or better yet, forgo fires altogether where possible.
Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance, never feed them, and store food securely.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down, yield to others on the trail, and be respectful of their experience.

When we consistently apply these principles, we contribute to the preservation of our natural landscapes for future generations. The seemingly small act of packing out toilet paper is a powerful demonstration of respect for the environment and fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I make sure my used toilet paper doesn't leak or smell in my backpack?

This is a common concern, and thankfully, there are several effective strategies to manage it. First and foremost, invest in a quality waste bag. Specialized odor-proof bags are designed with materials and seals that are highly effective at containing smells. If you’re using standard Ziploc bags, opt for the heaviest-duty freezer bags available. Always double-bag your used toilet paper for an extra layer of protection against leaks and odors. After using the toilet paper, place it directly into a small Ziploc bag, seal it tightly, and then place that sealed bag into your larger, primary waste bag. Ensure this main waste bag is also sealed securely. Many hikers find it best to store this waste bag in an easily accessible outer pocket of their backpack, rather than deep inside. This keeps any potential odors away from your food and sleeping gear, and allows for quick access if you need to add more waste. For shorter trips, a small, sealable hard-sided container like a Nalgene bottle can also be a very effective, leak-proof option.

Why is it important to pack out toilet paper even if it’s biodegradable?

The term "biodegradable" can be misleading in the context of the backcountry. While biodegradable toilet paper is formulated to break down more readily than conventional paper, its decomposition rate is heavily dependent on environmental conditions, such as temperature, moisture, and soil composition. In the backcountry, these conditions are often not optimal for rapid decomposition. Cold temperatures, dry soil, or compacted earth can significantly slow down or even halt the breakdown process. This means that "biodegradable" toilet paper can persist for a long time, similar to regular toilet paper, becoming unsightly litter and potentially still impacting the environment. Furthermore, even biodegradable paper may contain dyes or perfumes that aren't ideal for sensitive ecosystems. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, the leading authority on responsible outdoor recreation, strongly advocates for packing out all toilet paper, regardless of its biodegradability, to ensure the minimization of human impact. It’s the most reliable way to guarantee that no trace is left behind.

What are the best alternatives to using toilet paper in the backcountry?

For those looking to minimize waste and the associated hassle, several alternatives to traditional toilet paper are popular among experienced backpackers. The "Poo Rag" or reusable bandana method is one of the most effective. This involves using a soft, absorbent cloth (like a bandana, or a specifically designated cloth) for wiping. After use, the cloth can be rinsed (if water is available and it’s permissible to do so away from water sources), wiped clean with a small amount of natural material like a broad leaf, and then stored in a separate, sealed waste bag. While this method significantly reduces the amount of waste to carry, it does require a certain level of comfort with hygiene and cleaning the cloth thoroughly. Another option, especially for those who are very minimalist, is to use natural materials like large, soft leaves (e.g., mullein, sometimes called "cowboy toilet paper") or smooth stones. However, this is generally recommended only as a last resort, as it can be less effective and potentially irritating. For the vast majority of recreational backpackers, the most practical and widely accepted approach is to use a small amount of biodegradable toilet paper and pack it out diligently in a dedicated waste bag.

How can I manage my backcountry bathroom waste if I'm in an area that requires packing out all solid waste, including human waste?

In some sensitive or high-use areas, regulations may extend beyond just packing out toilet paper to include packing out human solid waste as well. This is where specialized products called WAG bags (Waste Alleviation and Gelling) become incredibly useful. WAG bags are typically heavy-duty, sealable bags that contain a gelling agent and often a deodorant or antimicrobial powder. When used, you deposit your solid waste directly into the bag. The gelling agent solidifies any liquid waste, and the powder helps to neutralize odors and begin the decomposition process within the bag. You then seal the WAG bag and pack it out with you. These bags are designed to be leak-proof and odor-resistant, making them a safe and hygienic way to transport human waste. Always check local regulations for the specific area you'll be visiting, as some areas have specific guidelines or even provide WAG bags. If you're not using WAG bags, you'll need to have robust, leak-proof bags capable of containing both solid human waste and toilet paper. This usually means heavy-duty trash bags or specialized waste bags, often with double-bagging for maximum security.

What is the Leave No Trace principle regarding human waste and toilet paper?

The Leave No Trace principle that directly addresses this is "Dispose of Waste Properly." For human waste, the primary recommendation is to dig a cathole at least 200 feet (approximately 70 adult steps) away from water sources, trails, and campsites. The cathole should be 6-8 inches deep. After use, the cathole should be completely refilled with the original soil to make it look as undisturbed as possible. However, and this is the critical distinction for toilet paper, the principle also states to "Pack it in, pack it out." This applies to all trash, including food scraps, wrappers, and critically, all toilet paper used. So, while the human waste itself can be managed in a cathole under appropriate conditions, the toilet paper used for wiping should always be packed out. This is the most widely accepted and environmentally sound practice to ensure no trace is left behind and to prevent contamination or visual pollution.

By diligently following these guidelines and embracing the ethos of Leave No Trace, we can all contribute to the preservation of our beautiful wild spaces. The next time you find yourself in the backcountry, remember that what you do with your toilet paper is a small act with a significant impact. Pack it out, and leave it better than you found it.

What to Do with Toilet Paper in the Backcountry: A Comprehensive Guide to Leave No Trace