Personal Poop Kit Inventory – Build a LNT Bathroom Bag

A poop kit (or bathroom bag) is a small, portable kit containing everything you need to go to the bathroom responsibly in the outdoors. It's a core part of Leave No Trace ethics. Without one, you risk contaminating water sources, spreading disease, or leaving unsightly waste behind. A well-stocked kit ensures you can dig a proper cathole, clean up hygienically, and pack out all used materials — leaving the wilderness pristine for the next visitor.

According to Leave No Trace guidelines, a cathole should be 6–8 inches deep (15–20 cm) and 4–6 inches wide. This depth places waste in the organic soil layer where microbes can break it down most efficiently. Always dig your cathole at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) away from water sources, campsites, and trails. In arid desert environments, dig shallower (4–6 inches) as decomposition happens faster near the surface with sun exposure.

No — always pack out your toilet paper. While some sources historically said burying TP was acceptable, modern LNT best practices strongly recommend packing it out. Toilet paper can take months or even years to decompose, especially in dry or cold climates. Animals often dig it up, creating an unsightly mess. Use a sealable plastic bag (opaque ones work best) to store used TP, and dispose of it properly when you return to civilization. Some hikers also use a small squeeze bottle as a backcountry bidet to reduce or eliminate TP usage entirely.

A pee rag (popularized by brands like Kula Cloth) is a reusable, antimicrobial cloth used for wiping after urination. Instead of using toilet paper every time you pee, you use the cloth and then clip it to the outside of your backpack to dry in the sun. UV rays naturally sanitize it. This dramatically reduces toilet paper usage and waste. Wash it between trips. It's lightweight (about 0.5 oz), eco-friendly, and widely used by backpackers, especially women.

A good trowel should be lightweight, durable, and sharp enough to dig through compacted soil and small roots. Popular options include the Deuce of Spades (ultralight aluminum, ~1.5 oz), Vargo Dig Dig (titanium), and Gsi Outdoors Cathole Trowel. Avoid cheap plastic trowels — they snap easily in hard ground. Look for one with a serrated edge for cutting through roots. Never use a stick or trekking pole to dig a cathole; they're ineffective and damage fragile soil ecosystems.

All menstrual products — including tampons, pads, and liners — must be packed out. They do not decompose readily and can attract wildlife. Carry a dedicated opaque sealable bag for these items. Many backpackers prefer menstrual cups (like DivaCup or Lunette) because they're reusable and produce zero waste on trail. If using a cup, follow the same cathole guidelines for disposing of the contents. Always carry hand sanitizer and clean your hands thoroughly before and after handling these products.

A lightweight dry bag or stuff sack (2–5 liters) is ideal. It keeps everything organized, contains odors, and prevents leaks. Some hikers use a dedicated color-coded stuff sack (e.g., bright orange or red) so they can quickly identify it. In bear country, remember that scented items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and soap should be stored with your bear bag or bear canister at night. A small carabiner attached to the bag makes it easy to clip to your pack or hang line.

Yes. Human waste can introduce pathogens like E. coli, Giardia, and Cryptosporidium into water sources, potentially sickening wildlife and other hikers. It also introduces non-native bacteria into fragile ecosystems. Beyond health risks, improperly disposed waste is visually unpleasant and degrades the wilderness experience for everyone. In high-traffic areas like popular national parks, rangers spend significant time cleaning up after irresponsible visitors. Following proper waste disposal is a fundamental responsibility of every outdoor enthusiast.

WAG bags (Waste Alleviation and Gelling bags) are specialized bags designed to contain, gel, and neutralize human waste so it can be safely packed out. They contain a powder that solidifies liquid waste and an outer zip-seal bag that prevents leaks. WAG bags are required in some sensitive environments like river canyons, alpine zones, and certain national parks where catholes aren't practical or permitted. They're also essential for winter camping when the ground is frozen solid. Always check local regulations before your trip.

Sanitation is critical. Use these practices: (1) Double-bag used items — place used TP/wipes in a small sealable bag, then store that inside a larger opaque bag. (2) Keep clean items and used items strictly separated within your kit. (3) Always use hand sanitizer after handling waste, even before touching your water bottle or pack straps. (4) Consider carrying a tiny squeeze bottle of biodegradable soap for a proper hand wash when water is available. (5) Air out your kit during breaks — UV light helps sanitize. (6) Wash your hands thoroughly at the first opportunity with soap and clean water.