6 easy hygiene hacks for staying fresh & clean in the backcountry

#4  BIODEGRADABLE SOAP

Choose liquid or bar soap that gets you clean, but doesn’t poison the environment. Soap labelled “biodegradable” does not mean you can use it in waterbodies. That’s never acceptable. Soapy water should generally be disposed of 200 feet from the shoreline, but check the package for specific guidelines. Also use soap that’s fragrance free so you don’t attract every insect in range.

#5  DRY SHAMPOO

If you’re grossed out by greasy hair, dry shampoo is the answer. Combing a light sprinkle of this powdery compound though your hair absorbs the oils, making your tresses feel fresh and fluffy. Don’t bother with expensive, aromatic salon products, and instead just use plain corn- or rice starch (which is what the fancy stuff is made of, anyway). Several applications can add a touch of grey, but your companions will just think you’re getting wiser.

#6  CAMP SHOWER

For a full freshening, nothing beats a camp shower. There are many options, including complex contraptions that allow you to pump up the pressure. Easiest are the simple versions, just a spout and bag of water left in the sun to warm up. They’re light, compact and reliable. Don’t expect a torrent of water, but you’ll get clean enough to comfortably stay at camp even longer.