Author: Logan Marie of @itsloganmarie
I remember when I went on my first backpacking trip in 2015. I was shocked by the amount of waste that I produced overnight. It felt a little counterproductive to spend time out in nature while producing a lot of trash that was going straight to the landfill. Hike 15 miles to a beautiful setting in the wilderness, use plastic bags that damage the ozone, no thank you!
It has taken me years to dial in how I can sustainably backpack. Luckily once you have the tools, it is easier to feel better about your contribution to the landfill after a trip into the wilderness.
In this blog post, you will find products that you can use to simplify your trip, reduce waste, and lessen your impact on the environment you recreate on.
Leave No Trace Principles
One of the first things you will want to familiarize yourself with when getting into hiking and backpacking is the Leave No Trace Principles. Created by a non-profit organization, the 7 principles will be your guide on how to be the best outdoor steward you can be.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare-brings clarity, safety, and confidence before a trip.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces-stay on the trail and reduce impact when camping in the backcountry by sleeping on distinguished campsites.
- Dispose of Waste Properly – burying or pack out human waste per rules of the wilderness area. “Pack-in Pack-out” mantra for all trash.
- Leave What You Find – leave it better than you found it. Do not alter trees by engraving your name. Leave natural objects and cultural artifacts.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts – abide by most up-to-date fire regulations. Make sure your fire is extinguished before leaving, and use existing fire rings.
- Respect Wildlife – do not feed them and keep a safe distance. Remember you are in their home!
- Be Considerate of Others – remember that people come outside to find peace and solitude, so be respectful. Abide by trail etiquette for the wilderness areas you are in.
It is important to brush up on your Leave No Trace Principles before any destination you visit as they will change from wilderness to wilderness.
Reduce Trash Impact
When I first went backpacking, I used numerous plastic bags to put my food, trash, and toiletries in. Since then I have invested in sustainable, reusable bags that make me feel a lot better about my impact! Here are some of my favorite sustainable travel products I use from the trail to the airplane:
Stasher Bags: I have the variety pack of Stasher Bags so I have something in every size to use for various items. You can use them for food, toiletries, and trash. They are easy to wash!
Cadence Capsules: made from ocean-bed plastics, the capsules make it simple and easy to pack your fash wash, body cleanser, and pills for the weekend.
Human Waste
One of the biggest waste items in the backcountry is going to be your own! There are a few products I have in my bag to reduce the amount of waste overall when going to the bathroom outside.
Kula Cloth: Using this cloth eliminates the amount of toilet paper I am using as a female backpacker when I go #1. Plus, it is antimicrobial and washable for next time.
Travel Bidet: You heard that right! Reduce the amount of toilet paper you use when going #2 in the backcountry!
Biodegradable Toilet Paper: be sure to stock up on this ahead of time, and pack extra!
Make Your Own Backpacking Food
Not only are backpacking meals in bulky containers that take up a lot of room in your pack, but sometimes they don’t always taste great! I have had more pleasure backpacking if I take the time to create my own backcountry meals in advance. You will want to use a dehydrator to get results similar to a backpacking meal.
Depending on the length of your trip, you might want to pack fresh fruit and vegetables. Pro tip: add lettuce to a tuna wrap-game changer! Wrap the lettuce in a wet paper towel to keep it fresh. Makes the world a difference!
Fresh Off The Grid is one of my favorite websites to use for recipes on DIY backpacking meals. I promise it is worth the effort and your stomach will thank you later!
Have any sustainable backpacking suggestions for us? Please comment below and let us know what tips you have for us to take from our home to the trail.
Learn how Gregory Mountain Products does its part for the environment here. Follow us on social @gregorypacks for more fun!