Updated 12/22/2025

You don’t have to be dirty and smelly on a backpacking trip. Say goodbye to at least some of the funk by carrying a few toiletry items and learn tips for staying clean in the backcountry.

Instead of bringing everything that I use at home, I only take a few essential toiletry items on backpacking trips. To save pack weight and bulk, repackage toiletry items into small containers such as tubs and dropper bottles and only bring the amount that you need for each trip.

My personal hygiene kit

• lip balm, toothbrush, travel-size toothpaste, mini containers with sunscreen, lotion and insect repellent, hair ties, nail clippers
• containers for various lotions and ointments – humangear GoTubb 0.9 cu. in.
• laundry kit: cordage, gallon-size plastic bag, soap in mini dropper bottle, mini binder clips for hanging clothes
• towels for sponge baths: REI Multi Towel Mini (0.6 oz)
• stuff sack for toiletries: Space Bear Bags Poop-Moji Pouch (0.3 oz)
• bug spray: Sawyer Picaridin (not shown)

Personal Hygiene Tips

• Establish a daily ritual of washing your body after hiking each day to wipe away sweat, dirt, sunscreen, and/or insect repellant. A simple sponge bath in your tent can be done with wipes, or with water and a small pack towel. This not only keeps skin in good condition and reduces chafing and rashes, it also helps to keep sleeping bags clean, especially since accumulated build up of skin oils and dirt can impact the warmth of insulated gear.
• Bring separate base layers just for sleeping in.
• If using soap, use unscented biodegradable soap and distribute dirty water on dirt or rocks, never in or near a water source.
• Bring powdered soap or hand sanitizer and clean your hands every time after using the bathroom and before preparing meals.
• Brush and/or floss your teeth, making sure to spit the toothpaste away from camp and water sources. Consider using baking soda instead of toothpaste since it’s very lightweight and there’s no scent.
• Keep your feet clean and dry to avoid problems with bacteria. Wash your socks each day and change to a clean pair before going to bed.
• Take a dip in a stream, pond, lake or river. Make sure to wipe off sunscreen and insect repellent before getting in — the chemicals used in these products (even those containing natural ingredients) can harm the ecosystems in water sources.

• On longer trips, do camp laundry using a re-sealable plastic bag filled with water. Wring out as much moisture as you can and lay wet items in a sunny spot to dry.

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