12 Backpacking Hygiene Best Tips – Important Things to Know

Backpacking hygiene best tips is something every backpacker should be aware of. It seems as if you’re out in nature, away from civilization, and therefore cannot possibly have to worry about hygiene matters. However, that idea is no longer applicable for many backpackers who are spending more time outdoors than ever before. Some people even chose a life on the road as their permanent home and go on extended backpacking trips whenever they get the chance.

Bacteria can cause different types of infections in humans, some serious and others are less severe. Regardless of that, you should do everything in your power to prevent infections while backpacking. Unfortunately, even if you follow all of our backpacking hygiene best tips it’s not necessarily a guarantee that you won’t catch an infection. If you do, however, take the necessary precautions it should be less severe and easier to treat.

The Need for a Backpack when Traveling

One of the first things that people tend to forget is that they need to take their backpack with them. This means that it should be fully packed even when you go for a quick visit or are running errands. Also, rather than trying to avoid carrying your backpack at all costs, find ways how to have it on you at all times. For example, storing some snacks or even an energy bar in your backpack’s side pocket is the perfect backup plan when your blood sugar is dropping.

Keeping your backpack on you at all times might feel awkward for most people, but it will help you tremendously in case you need to pack up quickly and leave in a hurry. Make sure to carry all important documents with you as well so that you will be able to leave without any problems.

How to Stay Comfortable – 12 Best Hiking Hygiene Tips

1. Pack Floss

Keeping your teeth clean is the best way of maintaining good backpack hygiene. However, it can prove to be rather difficult while backpacking if you don’t have access to a toothbrush. Luckily, different types of floss can prove pretty effective in maintaining oral hygiene while backpacking.

Oral-B Glide

This is an amazing flosser for hikers as it comes in a form of dental tape that’s not only easy to carry but also shred-resistant and smooth.

Features

• Removes tough plaque
• Improves gum health
• Recommended by dentists
• Easy sliding

Available on – Amazon

2. Regular Bathing or Cleaning

Hikers need to keep themselves clean while backpacking. That means taking a bath every day if possible. Of course, showers are usually not an option when you’re in the wilderness however you can opt to use wet wipes for smaller jobs.

Dude Wet Wipes

These are a fresh option when you need a quick wipe down after hiking in the heat. They are lightly scented to help you feel clean and refreshed in any condition.

Features

• Refreshing finish
• Unscented wipes
• Soothing
• Includes aloe vera and vitamin e
• plant based

Available on – Amazon

3. Air Out to Prevent Fungal Attacks

If laundry seems impossible or challenging when backpacking, it’s even more important to ensure that you keep your backpack clean. That means airing it out or allowing it to dry when you’re unable to air it out properly. The best backpack hygiene tip is preventing the growth of fungi within the backpack itself. Carry an extra pair of hiking socks to sleep in.

Yuedge Hiking Socks

These are perfect for hikers as they are durable, lightweight, and breathable. The fabric of the socks is also quick-drying so your feet will remain protected.

Features

• 80% combed cotton
• Comfortable support
• Durable
• Breathable
• Cusioned heel

Available on – Amazon

4. Pack Ultralight Alternatives

If you are planning to take camping backpacking tents with you, make sure that they are ultralight. This means that they will be easier to carry, leaving more space for the necessary items.

Wandelen Appalachian Tent

This is an extremely ultralight tent that’s perfect for hikers who enjoy nature and want to be close to it. This tent is also easy to assemble and can provide plenty of space.

Features

• Easy Set-up
• Extreme Durability
• Unique Design
• Freestanding
• Under 3.2 lbs

Available on – Amazon

5. Wear the Right Clothing

When you are in the wild, wearing the right clothing is crucial. Hikers should always wear high-quality hiking is not only good hygiene practice but also a habit. Wearing the right clothing will help you avoid injuring your feet and other body parts so always take the time to put on the ideal shoes and clothing.

Danish Endurance Merion Cushioned Socks

These socks are designed specifically to keep your feet warm and comfortable. They also reduce the chances of blisters and other injuries while hiking in the wilderness.

Features

• Longer length
• Reduces friction
• Unisex

Available on – Amazon

6. Take the Time to Clean Your Feet Every Day

Backpacking hygiene best tips are to protect you in the wilderness. Keeping your feet clean is a good rule to go by no matter whether you are hiking or not. However, when you’re out in the wilderness, it becomes even more important. Make sure that you take the time to clean your feet daily. Take an extra pair of socks if necessary, just be sure to let them dry properly before putting them on again.

MQSS Electric Heated Winter Insoles

If the weather gets particularly cold, take longer hiking trips or if you are trekking through tough terrain like mountains, these insoles will keep your feet warm and ensure that they stay in the best condition possible.

Features

• Lightweight
• High-quality fabric
• Fits most shoes
• Waterproof

Available on – Amazon

7. Prepare a First Aid Kit If Necessary

Hiking may require you to prepare yourself with a first aid kit. You must take the time to prepare this before heading out into the wilderness as it can help keep you safe and in the best condition possible.

General Medi 2 in 1 First Aid Kit

This first aid kit is small and compact, but it still manages to pack a lot of useful supplies into the pack. This kit has everything that you need to keep yourself healthy, including the essentials.

Features

• Can be attached to a belt or backpack strap
• Ideal for hiking and camping trips
• Durable and lightweight
• High quality
• Security and reliability

Available on – Amazon

8. Outdoor Pooping

There is often a need to go outside when you’re in the wild and this means that you must learn how to use outdoor toilets. If possible dig a whole of 6-8 inches and 200 m away from water sources and camps. Try using a backpacking trowel for your ease.

Duece Ultralight Backpacking Potty Trowel

This is an ideal piece of equipment for those who enjoy hiking and camping as it’s lightweight, yet extremely durable. The handle has a comfortable ergonomic design which makes this trowel easy and comfortable to use.

Features

• Lightweight aluminum alloy
• Ergonomic design
• Saves time
• Smooth with round edges
• Angular shape

Available on – Amazon

9. Learn How to Use a Water Purifier

Water purifiers are an essential hiking and camping tool. However, if you are concerned about backpacking hygiene best tips you should only rely on them as part of your backup. It’s always best to bring some form of purification along with you as well so that if the water source is contaminated or if your water purifier fails, you will be safe.

Lifestraw Water Filter

This is easy to use and it’s also very compact. It can purify up to 1000 liters of water before you need to replace the cartridge, making it ideal for a long camping or hiking trip.

Features

• Compact and lightweight
• Filters 1500 liters of water before replacement needed
• Great tasting water
• Easy to use

Available on – Amazon

10. Using a Koala Cloth for Feminine Care

This is an essential piece of backpacking equipment for all women to maintain backpacking hygiene best tips. You should also get a Kuala cloth in case you are hiking with guys, especially if they are squeamish about your monthly cycle.

These Kuala cloths are designed for this purpose and they are also very durable so that you can use them for an extended period. It’s important to use them as opposed to using plain tissues as they can help keep your clothes stain-free and safe.

Mama Koala Cloth

This is a great option for women who are looking for an alternative to tampons and other feminine hygiene products. These cloths are easy to use, absorbent, and very comfortable, they are also very durable and long lasting.

Features

• Absorbent fabric that can hold up to 90 ml of liquid
• Lightweight
• No leaks

Available on – Amazon

11. Shave Your Back

When you’re in the wild, this is one of the great backpacking hygiene best tips. Body hairs can quickly grow long and this is when it’s important to shave them regularly. It’s important not to bring a cartridge razor with you as it has the potential to cause harm.

Doroco Motion Shaver

This is a great investment for those who walk and hike a lot. It has three rotary heads which help provide a close shave that doesn’t irritate the skin or cause ingrown hairs.

Features

• Closest shave possible
• Waterproof and washable
• Lightweight and compact design
• Smooth skin
• Raise bar
• Ergonomically designed handle

Price – $ 20.99

Available on – Amazon

12. Bringing the Right Foot Wear

One of the most important things that you can take on a hike or camping trip is your footwear. They can affect your comfort levels and also increase or decrease your chances of getting injuries.

DREAM Pairs

This hiking sandal is an ideal piece of equipment for hikers and campers. It has a long-lasting construction which makes it perfect for rugged terrain, yet they are also comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Features

• Lightweight
• Durable construction
• Comfortable and easy to clean
• Ideal for rugged terrain
• Rubber sole
• Waved patterns on the insole

Price – $ 28.99

Available on – Amazon

Best Backpack for Backpackers

With a multi-day hiking and camping trip, you will need a high-quality backpack. However, if you buy one that is not suited to your needs or size, it can mean the difference between an enjoyable trip and a miserable one.

Teton Sports Ultralight 90 Liters Lightweight Hiking Backpack

This is one of the best available backpacks for hiking and camping as it’s comfortable, durable, and long-lasting. It has a lot of extra features which make this the ideal backpack to take on an extended backpacking trip.

Features

• Waistband with hip and torso adjustments
• Internal frame in backpack
• Customizable fit
• Lumbar adjustments
• Padded lumbar regions
• Perfect even for beginers
• Multiple compression straps
• Strong shell

Price – 90 Liters $ 149.99

Available on – Amazon

FAQs Related to Backpacking Hygiene Best Tips

What is the Best Way to Use a Kuala Cloth During My Period?

A Kuala is usually placed in the underwear and not directly on your skin. This will help prevent the sudden leakage of blood from staining your clothes.

What is a Koala cloth? How Can it be Used?

A koala cloth is a backpacking hygiene product that is designed to be used during your menstrual cycle. It can be placed inside your underwear and helps prevent menstrual fluids from staining your clothes.

How to Dig with a Trowel?

Dig a hole that is 6 to 8 inches deep, ensure it’s large enough for your solid waste. After you have done this cover it with the dirt you have dug up.

Why is Hygiene During Hiking Important?

During hiking, you are exposed to pollution from the air and drinking water. If all this is not controlled it can have serious consequences on your health.

When Should I be Alert About Hiking Hygiene?

You should always drink purified water and eat clean foods during hiking. You also need to wash your hands regularly with anti-bacterial soap.

Where Should I Keep my Toothbrush?

Keep your toothbrush in an enclosed container, this will help prevent it from being exposed to anything while you are on the trail.

How Can I Maintain My Backpack Hygiene?

To ensure that your backpack remains clean you should wear protective clothing, wash your hands regularly with anti-bacterial soap. You should also avoid getting any food or drinks on your backpack as much as possible.

Conclusion

To sum up, with, backpacking hygiene best tips are very important. If you are not keen on your hygiene it can lead to infections, which makes the quality of your trip terrible. You also have to make sure you take all the necessary precautions from the beginning to ensure a pleasant trip.