Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking: The Definitive Guide

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Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking?

When you’re backpacking in the backcountry, it’s important to pack out all of your trash, including toilet paper. But what if you’re in a remote area and there’s no trash can in sight? Can you bury your toilet paper?

The answer is: it depends.

In some cases, it is possible to bury toilet paper in the backcountry. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind in order to do so safely and responsibly.

In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of burying toilet paper in the backcountry, as well as the steps you need to take to do so safely. We’ll also provide some alternative options for disposing of toilet paper when you’re backpacking.

So whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or you’re just getting started, read on to learn more about burying toilet paper in the backcountry.

Question Answer Source
Can you bury toilet paper while backpacking? Yes, you can bury toilet paper while backpacking. The National Park Service
How deep should you bury toilet paper? At least 6 inches deep The National Park Service
What can I use to bury toilet paper? Dirt, rocks, leaves, or snow The National Park Service

When you’re backpacking, it’s important to be aware of how to dispose of your waste in a way that is both environmentally friendly and sanitary. One of the most important things to remember is to bury your toilet paper. This will help to keep it out of sight and smell, and it will also help to prevent the spread of disease.

In this article, we will discuss why you should bury toilet paper while backpacking, and we will provide instructions on how to do it properly. We will also discuss some alternative methods of disposing of toilet paper, in case you are unable to bury it.

Why You Should Bury Toilet Paper

There are a number of reasons why you should bury toilet paper while backpacking. First, toilet paper can pollute the environment if it is not disposed of properly. When toilet paper is flushed down a toilet, it can end up in a sewage treatment plant. However, if you are backpacking in a remote area, there may not be a sewage treatment plant nearby. This means that the toilet paper could end up in a natural water source, such as a river or lake. This can pollute the water and harm the environment.

Second, burying toilet paper helps to keep it out of sight and smell. When toilet paper is left out in the open, it can attract insects and other pests. This can be a nuisance, and it can also be a health hazard. Burying the toilet paper will help to keep it out of sight and smell, and it will also help to prevent the spread of disease.

Third, burying toilet paper helps to prevent the spread of disease. When toilet paper is not disposed of properly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This bacteria can then be spread to people who come into contact with the toilet paper. Burying the toilet paper will help to kill the bacteria and prevent it from spreading.

How to Bury Toilet Paper

Burying toilet paper is a simple process. Here are the steps involved:

1. Dig a hole about 6 inches deep.
2. Place the toilet paper in the hole and cover it with dirt.
3. Tamp down the dirt to ensure that the toilet paper is buried.

It is important to make sure that the hole is deep enough so that animals cannot dig up the toilet paper. It is also important to tamp down the dirt so that the toilet paper is not visible.

Alternative Methods of Disposing of Toilet Paper

If you are unable to bury toilet paper, there are a few alternative methods of disposal that you can use. Here are a few options:

  • Burn the toilet paper.
  • Pack the toilet paper out with you and dispose of it at a later time.
  • Use a portable toilet.

Burning the toilet paper is a quick and easy way to dispose of it. However, it is important to make sure that the toilet paper is completely burned, so that it does not create a fire hazard.

Packing the toilet paper out with you is a good option if you are going to be backpacking in an area where there are no trash cans. However, it is important to remember that you will need to carry the toilet paper with you for the entire duration of your trip.

Using a portable toilet is a good option if you are backpacking in an area where there are no trees or other natural materials that you can use to bury the toilet paper. Portable toilets are available at most outdoor stores.

Burying toilet paper is the best way to dispose of it while backpacking. It is a simple process that helps to keep the environment clean and healthy. If you are unable to bury toilet paper, there are a few alternative methods of disposal that you can use. However, it is important to remember that these methods are not as environmentally friendly as burying toilet paper.

Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking?

Yes, you can bury toilet paper while backpacking. However, it is important to do so properly in order to avoid polluting the environment.

How to Bury Toilet Paper

To bury toilet paper, follow these steps:

1. Dig a hole that is at least 6 inches deep.
2. Place the toilet paper in the hole.
3. Cover the hole with dirt.
4. Tamp down the dirt so that it is level with the surrounding ground.

Why You Should Bury Toilet Paper

There are several reasons why you should bury toilet paper while backpacking.

  • To protect the environment. Toilet paper is a biodegradable material, but it can still take a long time to decompose. If you leave toilet paper on the ground, it can attract pests and pollute the environment.
  • To avoid attracting animals. Animals are attracted to the smell of human waste. If you leave toilet paper on the ground, it can attract animals such as bears, raccoons, and rodents.
  • To keep your campsite clean. A clean campsite is more enjoyable for everyone. Burying toilet paper helps to keep your campsite clean and free of pests.

What to Do If You Can’t Bury Toilet Paper

If you cannot bury toilet paper, you can burn it or pack it out with you.

Burning Toilet Paper

Burning toilet paper is not recommended in areas with high fire danger. If you are in an area with high fire danger, you should pack out your toilet paper instead of burning it.

Packing Out Toilet Paper

Packing out toilet paper can be inconvenient, but it is the best way to ensure that it does not pollute the environment. If you are packing out your toilet paper, be sure to place it in a sealed bag so that it does not leak.

FAQs

Can I bury toilet paper in a plastic bag?

No, you should not bury toilet paper in a plastic bag. Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to decompose, and they can pollute the environment. If you are going to bury toilet paper, you should bury it in a biodegradable bag.

Can I bury toilet paper in a cathole?

Yes, you can bury toilet paper in a cathole. However, you should be sure to dig the cathole deep enough so that the toilet paper is not visible from the surface.

How long does it take for toilet paper to decompose?

Toilet paper is a biodegradable material, but it can still take a long time to decompose. Under ideal conditions, toilet paper can decompose in about six months. However, in colder climates or in areas with high humidity, it can take much longer for toilet paper to decompose.

What are other ways to dispose of toilet paper while backpacking?

In addition to burying toilet paper, there are a few other ways to dispose of it while backpacking.

  • Use a portable toilet. A portable toilet is a great way to dispose of toilet paper while backpacking. Portable toilets are available for purchase at most outdoor stores.
  • Use a trowel to dig a hole. If you do not have a portable toilet, you can dig a hole to dispose of your toilet paper. Be sure to dig the hole deep enough so that the toilet paper is not visible from the surface.
  • Pack out your toilet paper. If you are unable to bury or burn your toilet paper, you can pack it out with you. Be sure to place your toilet paper in a sealed bag so that it does not leak.

    Can You Bury Toilet Paper While Backpacking?

Yes, you can bury toilet paper while backpacking. However, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to do so safely and effectively.

  • Choose a secluded spot away from water sources. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and other harmful organisms.
  • Dig a hole at least 6 inches deep. This will help to keep the toilet paper from being dug up by animals or washed away by rain.
  • Cover the hole with dirt and rocks. This will help to camouflage the hole and prevent animals from digging it up.
  • Dispose of used toilet paper in the same way. This will help to keep the area clean and prevent the spread of bacteria.

Here are some additional tips for safely burying toilet paper while backpacking:

  • Use biodegradable toilet paper. This will help to reduce the environmental impact of your waste.
  • Pack out any non-biodegradable waste, such as plastic bags or wrappers.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet. This will help to prevent the spread of bacteria.

By following these tips, you can safely and effectively bury toilet paper while backpacking.

What are the risks of not burying toilet paper while backpacking?

If you do not bury toilet paper while backpacking, there are a few risks that you may face.

  • Spread of bacteria and other harmful organisms. When toilet paper is not properly disposed of, it can attract insects and other animals. This can lead to the spread of bacteria and other harmful organisms, which can pose a health risk to both humans and animals.
  • Pollution of water sources. If toilet paper is not buried properly, it can wash into water sources. This can contaminate the water and make it unsafe for drinking or swimming.
  • Harm to wildlife. Animals may eat toilet paper that is not properly disposed of. This can cause health problems for the animals and can also lead to the spread of diseases.

By burying toilet paper properly, you can help to reduce these risks and keep yourself, other people, and animals safe.

What are some alternatives to burying toilet paper while backpacking?

There are a few alternatives to burying toilet paper while backpacking.

  • Pack out your toilet paper. This is the most environmentally friendly option, but it can also be the most challenging. If you choose to pack out your toilet paper, be sure to pack it out in a sealed bag so that it does not contaminate other items in your backpack.
  • Use a portable toilet. Portable toilets are a convenient and sanitary option for backpacking. They are typically made of lightweight materials and can be easily transported.
  • Use a trowel or other digging tool to bury your toilet paper. This is a more sustainable option than using your hands, but it can be more difficult to find a suitable spot to bury your toilet paper.
  • Use biodegradable toilet paper. Biodegradable toilet paper is made from materials that will break down quickly in the environment. This is a more environmentally friendly option than using traditional toilet paper.

By choosing an alternative to burying toilet paper, you can help to reduce your impact on the environment and keep yourself and others safe.

there are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether or not to bury toilet paper while backpacking. First, consider the local regulations. Some areas have strict rules about disposing of waste, and burying toilet paper may not be allowed. Second, think about the environmental impact. Burying toilet paper can contribute to water pollution, so it’s important to do so in a way that minimizes this risk. Third, be aware of the potential health risks associated with burying toilet paper. If you’re not careful, you could contaminate the soil and water with harmful bacteria. By following these tips, you can safely and responsibly dispose of toilet paper while backpacking.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.