When Nature Calls but There’s No Toilet in Sight Here’s How to Poop Without Toilet
Nature is calling, but there’s not a toilet in sight. We’ve all been in that panicky situation before – frantically searching for somewhere, anywhere to relieve yourself outdoors. Suddenly, doing your business isn’t so simple. But don’t worry, you can answer the call of nature without a proper porcelain throne.
First, stay calm and scout out an optimal poop spot. Look for a secluded area at least 200 feet from water, trails, or campsites. Burying your waste afterward is key, so having a small shovel on hand is essential.
If it’s a true emergency, a makeshift toilet like a lined bucket or bag can do the trick. Portable camping potties are also handy for keeping your car or RV waste-free. And in a pinch, a simple hole in the ground works wonders.
Wherever you go, follow Leave No Trace principles and bury waste at least 6 inches underground. Leaves or snow make great natural TP if needed. With some creativity and preparation, you can answer nature’s call anywhere comfortably. Don’t let a lack of toilet stop your outdoor adventure!
Choosing the Right Location
The first step is scouting the optimal location to go au naturale. You want privacy, so look for a spot at least 200 feet from any trails, campsites, or water sources.
Ideally find some cover like bushes or trees for added seclusion. And be sure to go downhill from trails or camps so waste doesn’t run back towards any recreation areas when it rains.
Consider the terrain for accessibility and post-poop cleanup. Avoid digging near roots and rocks that make holes tricky. Soft dirt that is easy to scoop makes burial of waste simpler.
Digging the Perfect Cathole
Catholes are quick and easy holes for pooping in the woods. Save your trowel some work by looking for soft spots clear of debris and roots.
Dig down 6-8 inches, leaving a small mound of dirt beside the hole for an easy cover-up afterward. Make your cathole 4-6 inches across – large enough for solid waste but small enough to be easily filled.
Once finished, cover your waste thoroughly with the displaced dirt, double bag any used TP, and pack out your trash. Be sure to disguise the site by scattering leaves and sticks over it.
Setting Up a Portable Potty
For car camping or RVing, portable potties offer a toilet experience anywhere. Compact folding models with removable waste bins make disposal easy.
Look for units with a high weight limit and seals to contain odors. Bring along portable potty chemicals to help break down waste and toilet paper.
For privacy, set up your portable toilet behind your vehicle or in a tent. Never place it uphill from camping areas. Dispose of collected waste properly at RV dumps.
Improvising a Camp Toilet
If you’re caught without a portable potty, you can improvise one with supplies you already have.
Line a 5-gallon bucket with a heavy duty trash bag. Place kitty litter, sawdust, or moss in the bag to absorb liquids. Use it, then tie up the bag and pack out the waste.
A similar option is the “groover”, used by rafters. Fill an ammo can with waste bags and sealing gel. The watertight design prevents spills in boats.
Going Bucket in an Emergency
When you’re desperate, even a simple bucket or bag can serve as an emergency toilet. Use two trash bags – one inside the other – for extra leak protection.
Line the container with puppy pads, paper towels, or absorbent wood chips before use. Seal and dispose of the used bag properly as soon as possible.
Disinfect and deodorize the bucket afterward. With proper trash disposal, improvised toilets can save you when nature calls urgently.
How to Wipe Without TP
Toilet paper is a luxury in the wilderness. When nature calls, you may need to get creative with your wiping methods.
Using leaves as TP is a classic backcountry technique. Stick to soft, non-toxic plants like thistle, lamb’s ear and mullein.
Snow also works in a pinch by allowing you to “clean up” with just your hand. Don’t forget to wash up properly afterward!
Bringing your own TP and packing it out is safest, but when supplies run low, use what the land provides hygienically.
Burying Waste Correctly
The final step is burying your waste adequately. Find a site at least 200 feet from water and dig a 6-8 inch cathole.
Do your business, wipe, then carefully fill the hole with the excavated dirt. Cover the spot with leaves and twigs as camouflage. Pack out any used TP.
By digging deep and burying thoroughly, you’ll decompose waste safely and leave no trace of your outdoor bathroom break!
With the right location, tools, and techniques, it’s entirely possible to poop comfortably without a toilet nearby. Just remember to plan ahead, watch your distance from recreation sites, and always pack out your trash. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to answer nature’s call confidently wherever you roam!