Overlanding Toiletries & Hygiene Accessories Checklist

Proper trash storage and disposal are crucial for overlanders to minimize their impact on the environment and maintain the cleanliness of the areas they visit. Here are some tips on how to store and manage trash while overlanding:

1. Separate trash and recyclables: Use separate bags or containers for trash and recyclables. This makes it easier to dispose of waste properly when you reach a disposal facility or recycling center.
2. Heavy-duty trash bags: Use heavy-duty trash bags to contain waste and prevent leaks. Choose bags with drawstrings or other secure closures to minimize odors and keep pests away.
3. Trasharoo or similar products: A popular option among overlanders is the Trasharoo, a heavy-duty, weather-resistant bag designed to attach to the outside of a spare tire or the rear of a vehicle. This keeps trash separated from living and food storage areas, reducing smells and the risk of attracting pests.
4. Sealable containers: Use sealable plastic containers or ziplock bags to store waste that may produce strong odors, such as food scraps or used hygiene products. This helps to keep smells contained and discourages pests from being attracted to your trash.
5. Minimize waste production: To reduce the amount of trash generated, try to minimize packaging and single-use items. Opt for reusable or eco-friendly alternatives, such as reusable water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags.
6. Regularly dispose of trash: Whenever possible, dispose of your trash in designated waste receptacles or at disposal facilities. This helps to prevent trash from accumulating in your vehicle and reduces the risk of attracting pests.
7. Secure your trash: When storing trash outside your vehicle or at a campsite, make sure it’s secured to prevent it from being scattered by wind or animals. Hang trash bags from a tree or use a bear-resistant container when camping in areas with wildlife.
8. Practice Leave No Trace principles: Adhere to Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and waste, leaving the areas you visit clean and undisturbed.

By properly storing and disposing of trash, overlanders can minimize their impact on the environment and maintain the cleanliness and beauty of the areas they explore.

Overlanders use various methods to manage their bathroom needs while on the road, depending on their personal preferences, the type of vehicle they have, and the availability of facilities in the areas they are traveling. Here are some common ways overlanders handle bathroom situations:

1. Public restrooms: When available, overlanders may use restrooms at gas stations, restaurants, campgrounds, or other public facilities. This is often the most convenient and comfortable option.
2. Portable toilets: Some overlanders carry portable toilets, such as chemical toilets or camping toilets, in their vehicles. These toilets consist of a seat, a holding tank for waste, and sometimes a flushing mechanism. After use, the waste can be disposed of at designated dump stations or taken to a proper waste disposal facility.
3. Bucket-style toilets: A simple and budget-friendly option is a bucket-style toilet, which consists of a 5-gallon bucket fitted with a toilet seat lid. Waste is collected in a plastic bag, which can be sealed and disposed of properly. To reduce odor and make cleanup easier, some overlanders use absorbent materials like kitty litter or sawdust in the bag.
4. Folding or collapsible toilets: Lightweight and compact, folding or collapsible toilets are designed for easy transport and storage. They typically consist of a foldable frame with a seat and a removable waste bag.
5. Cathole: In remote areas without facilities, overlanders may need to dig a cathole in the ground to bury their waste. A cathole should be at least 6-8 inches deep and located at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. After use, the hole should be filled in and covered to minimize environmental impact.
6. Urine bottles: For those who do not want to leave their vehicle during the night or in unfavorable weather, using a wide-mouthed bottle with a tight-sealing lid can be a convenient solution for urination. The bottle should be emptied and cleaned regularly.
7. Biodegradable bags: In some situations, overlanders may choose to use biodegradable bags designed for human waste disposal. These bags often contain chemicals that break down waste and neutralize odors. Once used, the bags can be buried in a cathole or packed out for proper disposal, depending on local regulations.

Regardless of the method chosen, it’s essential to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer, and to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact. Proper waste disposal is crucial to protect the environment and maintain the cleanliness of the areas visited during an overlanding trip.

To find out more about overlanding & bathroom options / hygiene, read our in-depth post which covers various types of portable toilets and installable solutions plus various nature-friendly “hacks” to ensure that your bathroom breaks are not a deal breaker for your next adventure.

Overlanders have several options for doing laundry while on the road, depending on their location, resources, and preferences. Here are some common methods for managing laundry during an overlanding trip:

1. Laundromats: When available, laundromats provide a convenient and efficient way to do laundry. Overlanders can often find laundromats in larger towns or cities, near campgrounds, or at some truck stops.
2. Campground facilities: Some campgrounds and RV parks offer laundry facilities for their guests. These facilities can be coin-operated or require tokens, so it’s a good idea to have some change on hand.
3. Handwashing: In situations where laundry facilities are not available or not convenient, overlanders can handwash their clothes using a bucket or a sink. A small amount of biodegradable soap and water is used to wash the clothes, which are then rinsed and wrung out before hanging them up to dry.
4. Portable washing machines: Some overlanders carry portable washing machines, which are compact, lightweight, and manually operated. These devices typically require minimal water and can be an effective way to clean clothes when facilities are not available.
5. Scrubba Wash Bag: The Scrubba Wash Bag is a popular product among overlanders for its compact size and effectiveness. The bag has an internal washboard-like surface that helps to scrub clothes clean when filled with water and a small amount of soap. After washing, the bag can be rolled up and stored easily.
6. Washing clothes in natural water sources: Some overlanders may choose to wash their clothes in rivers, lakes, or streams. If using this method, it’s essential to use biodegradable soap and keep a safe distance (at least 200 feet) from the water source to minimize environmental impact.
7. Planning and packing: Many overlanders plan their clothing choices and packing strategies to minimize the need for laundry. Quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant materials can help extend the time between washes. Packing enough clothing for an extended period can also help reduce the frequency of laundry days.

Regardless of the method chosen, it’s essential for overlanders to practice good hygiene and be mindful of their impact on the environment. Using biodegradable soaps, conserving water, and adhering to Leave No Trace principles can help ensure that overlanders minimize their footprint while staying clean and comfortable on the road.

Showering while overlanding can be a bit of a challenge, but there are several options available depending on your preferences, location, and available facilities. Here are some ways to shower when overlanding:

1. Public facilities: When accessible, overlanders can make use of showers at campgrounds, RV parks, truck stops, or recreational centers. These facilities often provide hot water and a comfortable place to clean up.
2. Portable camping showers: Many overlanders carry portable camping showers, which consist of a water container, a hose, and a showerhead. These showers can be heated by solar energy or connected to a propane stove or vehicle’s heating system. They can be hung from a tree or mounted on a vehicle, providing a convenient and private shower option.
3. Solar showers: A solar shower is a bag made of heat-absorbing material that is filled with water and left in the sun to warm up. After a few hours, the water can reach a comfortable temperature for showering. Solar showers typically come with a hose and a nozzle, making them an easy and eco-friendly option.
4. Battery-powered showers: These portable showers use a small, battery-powered pump to draw water from a container and push it through a showerhead. The water can be heated beforehand or left at ambient temperature, depending on your preference.
5. DIY vehicle shower systems: Some overlanders create custom shower systems integrated into their vehicles. These can include built-in water tanks, water heaters, and showerheads mounted on the exterior of the vehicle. These setups can provide hot showers and privacy with the use of a shower tent or a privacy screen.
6. Wet wipes or sponge baths: In situations where shower facilities or water is scarce, overlanders can use wet wipes or a damp cloth for sponge baths to clean themselves. Biodegradable, unscented wet wipes designed for camping are a practical option for a quick and water-efficient cleanup.
7. Natural water sources: When in remote locations, overlanders may use rivers, lakes, or streams to bathe. It’s essential to use biodegradable soap and keep a safe distance (at least 200 feet) from the water source to minimize the impact on the environment.

Regardless of the shower method chosen, it’s crucial to be mindful of water conservation and the environment. Overlanders should use biodegradable soaps, practice good hygiene, and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to ensure they minimize their impact on the areas they visit.