This is something I never thought I'd discuss with the general public, but here goes. My girlfriend and I stay in remote locations for long periods, and being healthy...active...adults, it's nice to keep those nether regions clean, so, we use lab type irrigation bottles to rinse those areas. They're cheap and especially nice for female type female hygiene, as well as being useful for cleaning up after having a poo. Also, using a bit of triple antibiotic ointment applied umm...locally and BEFOREhand makes the post poo cleanup quick and very clean and it helps with camp food induced constipation. If you're camping with a romantic partner, giving each other sponge baths is both a good way to keep clean, and pretty darn fun if you're fun type human people. Well, there you go, I'm totally embarrassed, so I hope this helps lots of good human folks.
@@btrswt35 thank you, although I thought that maybe alluding to how to stay "active" with one's babe-in-the-woods ( 😁 ) might be...uncomfortable for some folks... But I guess you're right, you either learn by trial and error or by the experience of others. Have a great week, nice to meet you.
Please STOP using triple antibiotic ointment. Your skin is intact and you are destroying the microbiome, Neomycin is the #1 antibiotic allergy and an allergy is very likely to occur with extended use. Use instead Aquaphor, Vaseline or Hydrogel.
Dudes! Don't skip the period talk. We should all understand how bodies work, especially outdoors-plus Dixie's a great teacher. Thanks for a great video on one of the most important parts of having a good time in the wilderness.
I keep my toothbrush in my cookpot along with spoon etc. After water has reached a boil, I dip spoon and toothbrush to sanitize. Eat, then brush right after. I do quickly rinse the toothbrush & let dry a bit before storing in pot. Scented toothpaste does stay in bear bag / canister. For "squatting" in the woods, I try to find support like a slanted rock or downed tree rather than just squatting. MUCH easier, less tiring for the legs & knees.
Trained Alaska (remote) field geologists for years and always made everyone read "How to Shit in the Woods: An Environmentally Sound Approach to a Lost Art" Book by Kathleen Meyer.
I’m going to “thumbs up” just for making a notation of when the period talk ends! I’m a 48 year old father of 5 (four girls), married to the same woman for 22 years. I personally don’t care about the “period talk,” but I’m aware it’s an issue for some men. My wife and I, along with our 2 youngest teenaged girls, started day hiking in May. It’s been a blast! Keep putting out useful information!
A research study was done in Rocky Mountain NP to evaluate the effects of hikers/visitors pooping/peeing in the Park. The study consisted of measuring caffeine in the creeks and lakes. The only source for that caffeine is from people's waste from their consumption of caffeinated drinks and foods. Apparently, the results indicated that a substantial amount was found in the lakes and creeks inside the Park, which is not good, since that indicates that human waste is contaminating the lakes and creeks.
Dixie, you are an absolute pleasure to watch, always. Doesn’t matter the subject, you are a great teacher and present in a way that imparts the material, yet do it in a pleasant matter of fact way. So good! Thanks!!
My hygiene routine is simple, every morning I call my friend, Gene. I say "Hi Gene" and boom .. sorted. Done for the day. Not only the time saving but I find it easy to get seats on public transportation but I have difficulty making friends (except for Gene ) and getting into restaurants.
Excellent and an often avoided topic of discussion. As a microbiologist I'll add one or two notes... not all baby wipes are created equal. Regular wipes just have water with or without a moisturizer and they are great for general wash-up, but after a poo or pee antibacterial wipes should be used. These typically have 0.13% - 0.4% benzalkonium chloride or benzathonium chloride added as an antimicrobial agent and are excellent. For budget-minded hikers note that some food outlets provide wipes for finger foods and most have just water but some have this antimicrobial... ask for a few extra. .
Feminine hygiene pads can also double up as a large bandage in case of emergency. I managed to patch up my friend with a pad and duct tape after he got a huge gash on his leg from a slip and fall. It was enough to stop the bleeding and keep it clean and protected until he got stitches at hospital the next day.
The Australian Army used to hand them out to recruits to put down the backs of their socks if they had developed bad blisters on the backs of their heels/ankles from not wearing-in their boots.
Dixie My Dear, I noticed you didn't mention anything about sunscreen. I know your in the woods a lot but not always, & even in the woods filtered light breaks through & skin is still exposed to uva & uvb light. Young people may not think about this, but it is a extremely important part of maintaining your health & hygiene long term, that and wearing some sort of hat for extra protection. Just thought I'd mention that.
Yes as a menstrual cup user in my regular life, definitely practice at least 3 cycles before hand. Not only does it take a cycle or two to get the hang of inserting it and taking it out but it can take a few different cups to find one that works best with your anatomy. Not to say you can’t make a cup work for you but it’s more comfortable and less messy to find one that does:) There’s a channel called Precious Stars Vlogs (and I’m sure others exist too!) that’s reviewed like every cup on the market to help you make a decision. After ~5 years of using menstrual cups I can say it’s the best decision I ever made! I can just pop one in and not think about my period for a least 12 hours. At home I use a disc style the first couple days of my cycle and then switch to a more “traditional” (ruby cup) cup for the remainder, or anytime I do activity. I find the disc style doesn’t put as much suction pressure on my cervix so it doesn’t cause extra cramping like I can get when using my ruby cup the first 2 days but consequently I feel that it’s not as secure in my body anatomy so when I am active I put the ruby cup in regardless of cycle day. So on trail I’m only going to take that one with me.
I just bought the pstyle this week! Still haven't practiced with it yet... I had a funnel style once and I was pee shy and it didn't work well for me at all. Plus I tend to release my bladder and bowels at the same time, and can't quite figure out how to release one and not the other. LOL SERIOUSLY!
@@montyollie I had to practice in the shower before I could get used to it. The funnels never quite worked for me either, just ended up making a mess, so I hope the pstyle works for you too!
A "minimalist" girl on the PCT tried to convince me about the value of using leaves instead of TP. She had some other refreshing views so I didn't just dismiss her extreme choice regarding the leaves. Some days later it dawned on me that a compromise has some serious potential. If and when useful leaves are available when you have to 'go', you can use those leaves to Bulk Up your TP for a better #2 experience. Just wrap a thin layer(s) of TP around a handful of leaves. Your TP will last more days that way, less waste in the ground, less likely to accidently get your hand dirty while trying to conserve TP, et cetera. It's just an option.
@@montyollie A compliment bigger than I deserve really, but thx. I believe we all can attain improved clarity of thought by getting out and getting seriously unplugged for extended periods of time, as was the case when the idea occurred to me. However I will admit that I'm not a tourist hiker (i.e. paying for an experience, a schedule to follow, apps instead of maps, etc.) One of my principles is to strongly avoid solving problems in the bush by throwing money at it. A well developed mind/skill combination requires the application of mental effort, like going to the gym to build muscles. Also, like muscles, it gets weak without occasional practice. I lost count how many times in my life ppl have asked me, "who taught you that?" I don't recall my responses, but I always think - you know there is this amazing thing called the human brain which can figure out a lot of things on its own without a teacher if some effort is applied.
All great information Dixie. I cannot stress foot care. I hike and can tell you my feet have taken a beating. Toe fungus, losing toe nails and sweaty feet. I use powder in my shoes and use smart wool socks. I get regular check ups with my foot doctor and make sure nails are trimmed. As of today, my feet are happy. A small emery board to sand off the callous and rough skin is great.
It’s much more likely for a disease to spread from human to human than animal to human. But you are correct which is why you should always treat your water
The animals also mostly keep things local where humans with our globalist ways can either aggravate infectious spreading or we can be conscientious stewards. I do believe that humans belong in the forest along with the other animals, it's just that our ability to transport ourselves and our germs at such unnaturally rapid speeds can be kinda shocking to the areas we go to.
They distribute pure urine and animal/plant material. We pee and poop caffeine, painkiller medication, antibiotics, and whatever preservative residue left over from the food we eat. Plus, have you ever walked into a camp where someone was peeing nearby the camp? Imagine hundreds of people peeing 5 feet from the trail and the lovely smell you would get as you enjoyed the sunshine...until the next rain washes it away...protect the water, protect other hikers nose lol.
@@topherjoe1 Excellent relevent facts. One thing that gets me is how lots of hikers estimate distances. Daytime: 200 feet somehow becomes 80 feet or 40 feet in thicker vegetation. Nighttime: 200 feet become 22 feet or 11 feet in thicker vegetation. I like to think that this is a fairly small minority btw, idk. The worst culprits imo are still the quazi-car campers who hike in a couple hours from their vehicles to the vicinity of a crossing with the main long trail.
A little tip regarding deodorant... I do bring a plain old Speed Stick with me, partly to help contain the stink, but more importantly because I use it to quell bug bite itch. If you rub a fresh bite with deodorant or antiperspirant, the aluminum chloride in it will help your body to reduce the histamine reaction, and reabsorb/reduce the fluid buildup that causes bites to itch. I find this trick makes my bites stop itching and pretty much go away after about 24 hours. Since I'm terribly bothered by bug bites (normally, they take a couple weeks to go away on me), the deodorant trick is a total sanity-saver for me.
Your first hygiene on the trail video helped get my daughter on they trail where this father came up a bit short. My long time hiking partner used her late mothers tea towels for towels. Then relished stashing them in the dark corners of my trailhead truck at days end. Practice the bidet thing in the shower before hitting the trail.
That got a little cringy but the details make the difference. One of the better hygiene vids I’ve seen. One thing regarding cat holes though… Why suggest a trekking pole stick or a rock to dig your cat hole? Get a trowel people, it’s a tool you use every day and they weigh a half an ounce. Take pride and leave no trace. It’s the number one bad rap thru hikers get.
Hello Dixie, I never comment but I wanted to thank you for doing this serie ! You could have made 100 videos with stupid clickbait tittles (unfortunately this disease has spread even in the hiking community...) but you decided instead to make a few videos going straight to the point, well structured and pleasing to watch (no artificial cuts, zoom in/out, loud music). Thank you from France !
Real good advice. I have followed 4 through hikers and no one wants to talk about this and don’t. I haveIBS. If it goes in my mouth it comes out fast. Just my life. This limits what I do. I was hiking some years ago, had recently had a hamburger and f f. While on the trail it hit. The terrain was steep on one side and a creek on the other. I climbed the bank and hid behind a tree. It was a runny mess and would not end. I used baby wipes but still had it all over my shoes and pant legs. What a mess. Other people had come up the trail and just knew I was going to be seen. I can laugh now but then a horrible nightmare. Just thought I would share my experience in the woods in the NC mountain. Byeeeeee.
Bidets are awesome! I do use a little tp to dry off. Effective, and really cuts down (eliminates) monkey butt. The need for a dedicated bottle is mostly mental and accuracy. 😉
The idea of menstrual cups are great but they didn’t work for me, your hands have to be totally clean whenever you use them!! I learned this from experience!!
I need to look into that portable bidet. When I lived in Malaysia, water (and your left hand - right hand only is for eating) were used to clean up after #1&2 and not TP. I personally use a female urinary device when camping (and road trips during the pandemic when public restrooms were closed), and a pee rag. For my monthly flow, I use reusable silver infused menstrual pads. Used ones go into a bag until I can wash them. But I’m 50 and my flow is very light (and irregular again). For my hair, I wear a snood to keep it mostly clean and keep the sweat out of my eyes.
No button to turn that function 'off' but there are some foods that can put that function on hold. Watch out for things that put that function on 'continuous play' Don't forget the little pink Pepto tabs for the first aid kit, sometimes worth their weight in gold.
A couple of years ago I had surgery that precluded me from showering and I was given a large package of towelettes ( much like the baby wipes you mention only much larger and thicker) I have found that one of these towels used in the correct way and order, saving the arm pits, groin and backside areas for last, do a great job of cleansing. Once done I fold it up and put it in my trash bag. Probably not as readily available as the baby wipes unless there is a medical supply store or Pharmacy locally, but they are unscented and anti-microbial. If I recall right, one package is good for 10 bathing's. Nothing wrong with the baby wipes though and thought I'd just share this option for consideration for some. :-)
By the time I reached Virginia on the AT I realized I could just pull the shorts to the side, point the toes out and pee while slightly bent over. Saved me so much time verses taking the pack off and putting it back on.
Thanks Dixie, lots of good information. I find that in some instances it's very useful to have the female urinary device, but a person needs to try different ones and figure out which one works the best. Just rinse them, shake them off, put away for later. Regarding wipes: I don't understand why so many people carry wet wipes because of the weight and you have to pack them out. A small camp cloth can be wet with water and used for a daily sponge bath, very refreshing. Then they dry quickly for use again the next day. Good tip about the trail logs -- I never thought of that. Really, sometimes it's just better not to think of all the cooties that a person is exposed to! Happy hiking!
Forget the AP, this information goes for even a half day trip anywhere in the world where facilities are not readily available. Even in a small country like the Netherlands.
I love my travel bidet. I use it to rinse off. It doesn’t rinse out all my poop but it rinses off a lot. Then I use my baby wipes to wipe off the rest. But it really is good when you aren’t bathing daily the bidet helps us ladies feel cleaner down there after I pee. Then dry off with a pee rag that I air out then put in my bidet ziplock. You can practice using it at home on the toilet. I use a small water bottle that doesn’t last long in a pack so replace it at each town if you can. You don’t need a big bottle. Just something that easily squeezes. At times I will rinse then use a baby wipe with soap then rinse off if I’m feeling icky down there. But the water and a baby wipe is usually enough. Toilet paper is not my fav thing to carry. If you don’t have water(doesn’t need to filtered water) then baby wipes are my favs. In an area where there is a lot of water I sometimes bring wipes that have been dried out as well as wet ones.
Another option for the period issue is wait till your about 52 to 54 years of age and are no longer having periods!!! Now that I am at that age (I am 54 years old now) I am interested in doing a through hike of the Appalachian trail!!!
I also have a Elapee which makes going pee much easier in the great outdoors! I have a HappyBottom travel Bidet and absolutely love it. I even got an extra to keep at home and one I keep in my poop kit. I also use the travel bidet to clean up my parts when needed. You feel much cleaner and don't use as much toilet paper.
Hand sanitizer is good but there will probably still be a good amount of strange poop on your hands even after, so best to wash your hands as well before touching your bag or anything. And sadly sanitizer does not kill the virus. Those books are as dirty as the inside of toilets, so it’s just like dipping your hand in a public toilet 🤢
Since we’re going there ( and thanks for addressing this stuff Dixie), Grammy and I have lived off grid ( no plumbing) for seven years, AND I find reducing hair surrounding the “ toothless one” facilitates post poo clean up. Hope this is not too gross🥹
I was curious about that. Use a small trimmer I guess, and how long does it stay off? Curious how fast hair in that part of the body grows. Thanks for the comment.
With regard to the bidet - it really doesn't require that much water per use. Spraying from the front toward the back, works best, I've found. A pee rag works great to pat dry - and yay! We get to save some trees!
A bidet is a godsend for anyone who has had, currently has, or is susceptible to hemorrhoids. You can also use it a little beforehand which helps get you cleaner afterward, and with less water. Also, I use a single cottonball each night with a drop or two of witch hazel from a tiny squeeze bottle and wipe out armpits to help keep odor down. Near zero weight for a odor management.
For anyone considering trying out a urinary director (Shewee, Freshette, etc.), get one! I have two: one with my backpacking stuff, one in my go-bag. Total game changer!
I made my own toilet out of a collapsible stool from Amazon (the kind that has shock cord, and you pull it apart and twist to collapse it). I cut a 5x5 hole in the stool seat, reinforced it with webbing, and attach a compostable bag in the hole...no more squatting. Dig a cathole and bury it. And I have a camp stool at the end of the day, so I don't have to sit on the ground. The compost bag breaks down in 180 days, which is faster than the TP. The stool is 1.5 lbs, but well worth the weight for the comfort it provides.
Lush makes toothie tabs. They are awesome if you are hiking. Just pop the tablet in your mouth and it starts foaming up when you chew it and then just brush. Love them.
Thanks for the info. Shake, shake me all done. Words of my 3 year old many years ago. My kids were pooping and peeing with the bears from the time they got out of dippers. The only problem was when we were at home, they would go outside to pee. Practice with the squirt bottle at home, in your back yard, after dark. To dry your junk or have leaks and squirts cut a square off your micro towel or cut up a small swim towel. Micro fiber holds 8 times it went of liquid. You don't need to brush your teeth, only the one you want to keep. Go old school with your teeth, brush with salt. No smells for the critters. Inn 20 years as a wilderness leader alone or with my wife. I can't really remember a woman having a problem with their period.
I don't think i could ever do this #1 i wear contacts #2 i shave every morning 365 days a year. The stubble that grows overnight esp on my pits would drive me insane. I would lose my mind. I tried growing my body hair out many yrs ago.. that works. But it takes several weeks to stop feeling prickly.
Man and Women it is very helpful to carry a super large pad. It can be used for first aide for cuts You can use a clean bandanna or even a sock to hold it in place
Your video of the armadillo surprised me since this is an Appalachian trail video but sure enough they live in the southern range of the Appalachian trail well how bout that you learn something new every day
Hey, remember when you lost a couple toe nails? This vid reminded me of that … what can you do to prevent that ?? I am having issues with one of my big toes but they don’t cram into the front of my shoes
You are a very beautiful lady and I love what you do because I have a lady and she is new to the woods and she is a little worried about it and you helped her a lot. Thank you for your knowledge and help me keep her out in the woods longer I love your Channel keep it up girl 💯👍👍❤
Not sure why it’s necessary still in 2022 to objectify someone by referring to their physical appearance and addressing a stranger as “girl” makes me outright cringe. I think instead she deserves to be complimented for the professional way she deals with these delicate subjects so in that respect I agree with you. I hope your companion is encouraged to overcome her uncertainties and give backpacking a try. Hold on….I just read your other comment on another video from the same creator and now I’m convinced you’re a creepy incel and if you have a “lady” she’s probably locked up in your basement. Expressing love for strangers you’ve seen on the internet is NOT NORMAL or appropriate.
Unfortunately, even if you have good hand hygiene, alcohol based sanitizers do not kill the norovirus. A bleach or more environmentally based hydrogen peroxide solution is recommended, or old fashioned soap and hot water. Norovirus can live on a surface for up to 42 days, so you might want to skip a privy.
That toenail thing - Did you just make that up or were you speaking from experience? Ecccch!! I only clip mine out in the back yard - fully enclosed by a stockade fence so as not to gross out the neighbors.
1. There's absolutely no way squirting even a half bottle of water water through a bidet can get everything off. If you poo big like I do, that normally takes at least 2-3 wipes with TP, some squirts of water only could only get off some of the big bits. 2. It would take A LOT of water to completely clean that area. That's a lot of weight to carry just for your bum as a standard large Smartwater bottle weighs 2 pounds full. Not exactly lightweight. 3. Nobody wants your poo water all over the surface of the ground to step in. Just bury a lil toilet paper and wipe the area with a baby wipe at night before sleep. That's as clean as you can get.
I think about doin that every time I'm trucking on mass pike on the ladder you go under over pass that's the trail . Aint science to shit out side should have,wipes for but .
so I've been looking at lots of hiking/camping vids and have never found the answer to a question I have... what do you do with the tooth paste after you're done brushing your teeth? is it ok to just spit it out anywhere??
I know, this is so rarely discussed in these videos! I brought it up on the FB group, and people who would otherwise leave no trace didn't seem to think there was anything wrong with spraying the minty water around camp. Me, no way. I do it out in the woods like poo, and bury it. It's VERY scented.
The Ridge Runner in the Smokies asked us to swallow it or spit out in our garbage bag and pack it out because toothpaste is highly scented as you mention. 👍
With the bidet are people using dirty water straight from the stream or purified water? Seems like you could probably just use water straight from the stream so then you might be able to save weight by using your dirty water bottle and then putting your filter back on after since it should filter out any nasties if anything gets in the bottle and rinsing the bottle off is easy enough using some soap and your clean water if you’re worried about the exterior.
gotta b clean as best as pos . gotta brush teeth. wash face n down below. feet ! . i like bidet's .... ps.. learn to use least amount of water 4 the job !!!!!!!! i like tp on trail cuz it does more than 1 thing ... its a paper towel. blow nose. bandaid... etc . i wipe THEN wash w bidet cuz that helps keep rash or itching away. and just the feeling of being clean !!!!!!!!!!! wow !! a dedicated enima bulb is great 2 cuz 1x in am is good all day !!!!!!!!! its clean down there 2 !!!!! I can't say enuf about clean face,bottom n feet !!!! it makes me feel ready to loadup n go !! OR !!!! after a day out there pushing along, camp 4 the eve is setup, dinner is doing it's thing, a nice cleaning is a totatl mind reset !!! helps sleep. kepp bedding cleaner !!! if w some1 it's just real courteous !!! 8) lol.
We have gotten conflicting information…..when you do a raft trip down either the San Juan River or the Colorado River, you are told by the guides to pee in the river and do other business in the containers they carry on the trip and provide. Seems to be in contrast to what you are saying…..can you explain? You have also stated that you need to pee a certain distance from the trail and dig a cat hole for bowel movements. When we did the Tour Mont Blanc in Europe(France, Italy, and Switzerland), our hiking guide told us to pee right on the trail(not bowel movements), that it was better for the plant life in the Alps to do it right it right on the trail. Seems like so much conflicting info we are given. Thanks for your thoughts….
Seems like the examples you gave were such that those "guides" were giving tips that best cater to their profit margin, i e. leaning heavy in the direction that makes for happy, not inconvenienced customers.
Urine will naturally evaporate In the water and become "safely" diluted. Obviously, it works better in moving water. However, this is pretty old-school info and the evidence showing up in water tests indicates drugs that people take are finding their way into bodies of water.
Leave No Trace states that although urinating on vegetation has no direct effect, animals are attracted to the salts and can defoliate plants. Therefore they state "Urinating on rocks, pine needles, and gravel is less likely to attract wildlife. Diluting urine with water from a water bottle can help minimize negative effects." This seems to match the purpose behind what your guides said.
Nature trails are not all alike in natural climate, human foot traffic, political and economic interests, et cetera. Different places have different kinds of risks to flora and fauna; some of it might even be only little better than guesswork when you consider the track record of the so-called "experts"
I recently went to Philmont Scout Reserve in New Mexico and they said not to use deodorant because it could attract wildlife. I wore a wool t-shirt for almost nine days and I didn’t smell as bad as I thought I would. ( maybe my nose just went dead)
For the period thing, what if it’s a few days before you get into town to throw the bag away? And your just walking with a bag of bloody pads for days and fear attracting predators... also if it starts to smell where people can smell it while in camp, do they have cheap smell proof bags? Or does a zip lock do ok?
This is something I never thought I'd discuss with the general public, but here goes. My girlfriend and I stay in remote locations for long periods, and being healthy...active...adults, it's nice to keep those nether regions clean, so, we use lab type irrigation bottles to rinse those areas. They're cheap and especially nice for female type female hygiene, as well as being useful for cleaning up after having a poo. Also, using a bit of triple antibiotic ointment applied umm...locally and BEFOREhand makes the post poo cleanup quick and very clean and it helps with camp food induced constipation. If you're camping with a romantic partner, giving each other sponge baths is both a good way to keep clean, and pretty darn fun if you're fun type human people. Well, there you go, I'm totally embarrassed, so I hope this helps lots of good human folks.
Don't be embarrassed for passing on usable information that you have personal experience with. That's how people learn.
@@btrswt35 thank you, although I thought that maybe alluding to how to stay "active" with one's babe-in-the-woods ( 😁 ) might be...uncomfortable for some folks... But I guess you're right, you either learn by trial and error or by the experience of others.
Have a great week, nice to meet you.
The tripple anti B tip is great. Real talk dog, thanks
Please STOP using triple antibiotic ointment. Your skin is intact and you are destroying the microbiome, Neomycin is the #1 antibiotic allergy and an allergy is very likely to occur with extended use. Use instead Aquaphor, Vaseline or Hydrogel.
@@elioraimmanuel yes, for anything other than wounds, don't use triple antibiotic.
Dudes! Don't skip the period talk. We should all understand how bodies work, especially outdoors-plus Dixie's a great teacher. Thanks for a great video on one of the most important parts of having a good time in the wilderness.
Ironically, as a guy, I scored higher on female anatomy than I did on male anatomy in health class lmfao
@@3nertia:)
I keep my toothbrush in my cookpot along with spoon etc. After water has reached a boil, I dip spoon and toothbrush to sanitize. Eat, then brush right after. I do quickly rinse the toothbrush & let dry a bit before storing in pot. Scented toothpaste does stay in bear bag / canister.
For "squatting" in the woods, I try to find support like a slanted rock or downed tree rather than just squatting. MUCH easier, less tiring for the legs & knees.
Trained Alaska (remote) field geologists for years and always made everyone read "How to Shit in the Woods: An Environmentally Sound Approach to a Lost Art" Book by Kathleen Meyer.
Yup, excellent book, highly recommended.
Yup, excellent book, highly recommended.
I’m going to “thumbs up” just for making a notation of when the period talk ends! I’m a 48 year old father of 5 (four girls), married to the same woman for 22 years. I personally don’t care about the “period talk,” but I’m aware it’s an issue for some men. My wife and I, along with our 2 youngest teenaged girls, started day hiking in May. It’s been a blast! Keep putting out useful information!
A research study was done in Rocky Mountain NP to evaluate the effects of hikers/visitors pooping/peeing in the Park. The study consisted of measuring caffeine in the creeks and lakes. The only source for that caffeine is from people's waste from their consumption of caffeinated drinks and foods. Apparently, the results indicated that a substantial amount was found in the lakes and creeks inside the Park, which is not good, since that indicates that human waste is contaminating the lakes and creeks.
Dixie, you are an absolute pleasure to watch, always. Doesn’t matter the subject, you are a great teacher and present in a way that imparts the material, yet do it in a pleasant matter of fact way. So good! Thanks!!
She is great source of information and so she’s sweet to watch
My hygiene routine is simple, every morning I call my friend, Gene. I say "Hi Gene" and boom .. sorted. Done for the day. Not only the time saving but I find it easy to get seats on public transportation but I have difficulty making friends (except for Gene ) and getting into restaurants.
Dixie, I've watched many of your videos. Greatly appreciate your informative content. Thank for sharing your expierences.
Excellent and an often avoided topic of discussion. As a microbiologist I'll add one or two notes... not all baby wipes are created equal. Regular wipes just have water with or without a moisturizer and they are great for general wash-up, but after a poo or pee antibacterial wipes should be used. These typically have 0.13% - 0.4% benzalkonium chloride or benzathonium chloride added as an antimicrobial agent and are excellent. For budget-minded hikers note that some food outlets provide wipes for finger foods and most have just water but some have this antimicrobial... ask for a few extra. .
Feminine hygiene pads can also double up as a large bandage in case of emergency. I managed to patch up my friend with a pad and duct tape after he got a huge gash on his leg from a slip and fall. It was enough to stop the bleeding and keep it clean and protected until he got stitches at hospital the next day.
The Australian Army used to hand them out to recruits to put down the backs of their socks if they had developed bad blisters on the backs of their heels/ankles from not wearing-in their boots.
Dixie My Dear, I noticed you didn't mention anything about sunscreen. I know your in the woods a lot but not always, & even in the woods filtered light breaks through & skin is still exposed to uva & uvb light. Young people may not think about this, but it is a extremely important part of maintaining your health & hygiene long term, that and wearing some sort of hat for extra protection.
Just thought I'd mention that.
Yes as a menstrual cup user in my regular life, definitely practice at least 3 cycles before hand. Not only does it take a cycle or two to get the hang of inserting it and taking it out but it can take a few different cups to find one that works best with your anatomy. Not to say you can’t make a cup work for you but it’s more comfortable and less messy to find one that does:) There’s a channel called Precious Stars Vlogs (and I’m sure others exist too!) that’s reviewed like every cup on the market to help you make a decision. After ~5 years of using menstrual cups I can say it’s the best decision I ever made! I can just pop one in and not think about my period for a least 12 hours. At home I use a disc style the first couple days of my cycle and then switch to a more “traditional” (ruby cup) cup for the remainder, or anytime I do activity. I find the disc style doesn’t put as much suction pressure on my cervix so it doesn’t cause extra cramping like I can get when using my ruby cup the first 2 days but consequently I feel that it’s not as secure in my body anatomy so when I am active I put the ruby cup in regardless of cycle day. So on trail I’m only going to take that one with me.
Super kudos to you for not holding back, really getting some great info out there. We're all adults here, right? Great video.
15:15 "Doo-doo snacks"! 🤣
I LOVE the pstyle, it goes with me everywhere. I even use it at the theaters and other public places.
I just bought the pstyle this week! Still haven't practiced with it yet... I had a funnel style once and I was pee shy and it didn't work well for me at all. Plus I tend to release my bladder and bowels at the same time, and can't quite figure out how to release one and not the other. LOL SERIOUSLY!
@@montyollie I had to practice in the shower before I could get used to it. The funnels never quite worked for me either, just ended up making a mess, so I hope the pstyle works for you too!
A "minimalist" girl on the PCT tried to convince me about the value of using leaves instead of TP. She had some other refreshing views so I didn't just dismiss her extreme choice regarding the leaves.
Some days later it dawned on me that a compromise has some serious potential. If and when useful leaves are available when you have to 'go', you can use those leaves to Bulk Up your TP for a better #2 experience. Just wrap a thin layer(s) of TP around a handful of leaves. Your TP will last more days that way, less waste in the ground, less likely to accidently get your hand dirty while trying to conserve TP, et cetera. It's just an option.
Genius!
@@montyollie A compliment bigger than I deserve really, but thx.
I believe we all can attain improved clarity of thought by getting out and getting seriously unplugged for extended periods of time, as was the case when the idea occurred to me.
However I will admit that I'm not a tourist hiker (i.e. paying for an experience, a schedule to follow, apps instead of maps, etc.) One of my principles is to strongly avoid solving problems in the bush by throwing money at it. A well developed mind/skill combination requires the application of mental effort, like going to the gym to build muscles. Also, like muscles, it gets weak without occasional practice.
I lost count how many times in my life ppl have asked me, "who taught you that?" I don't recall my responses, but I always think - you know there is this amazing thing called the human brain which can figure out a lot of things on its own without a teacher if some effort is applied.
What wonderful imagination and creativity! And thanks for the idea!
Just make sure to know how poison ivy, or other not-so-nice plants look like before doing that. 😬🤣
@@Northanteus So right. Really good to know when coming across the biggest patch of poison oak ever...right next to a very popular hot springs.
A sensible discussion of delicate topics. Well done, Dixie.
All great information Dixie. I cannot stress foot care. I hike and can tell you my feet have taken a beating. Toe fungus, losing toe nails and sweaty feet. I use powder in my shoes and use smart wool socks. I get regular check ups with my foot doctor and make sure nails are trimmed. As of today, my feet are happy. A small emery board to sand off the callous and rough skin is great.
I get it the distance from water source, but its funny as there are 1000s of animals in the wild and they go where ever...
It’s much more likely for a disease to spread from human to human than animal to human. But you are correct which is why you should always treat your water
The animals also mostly keep things local where humans with our globalist ways can either aggravate infectious spreading or we can be conscientious stewards.
I do believe that humans belong in the forest along with the other animals, it's just that our ability to transport ourselves and our germs at such unnaturally rapid speeds can be kinda shocking to the areas we go to.
They distribute pure urine and animal/plant material. We pee and poop caffeine, painkiller medication, antibiotics, and whatever preservative residue left over from the food we eat. Plus, have you ever walked into a camp where someone was peeing nearby the camp? Imagine hundreds of people peeing 5 feet from the trail and the lovely smell you would get as you enjoyed the sunshine...until the next rain washes it away...protect the water, protect other hikers nose lol.
@@topherjoe1 Excellent relevent facts.
One thing that gets me is how lots of hikers estimate distances.
Daytime: 200 feet somehow becomes 80 feet or 40 feet in thicker vegetation.
Nighttime: 200 feet become 22 feet or 11 feet in thicker vegetation.
I like to think that this is a fairly small minority btw, idk.
The worst culprits imo are still the quazi-car campers who hike in a couple hours from their vehicles to the vicinity of a crossing with the main long trail.
“Doo doo snacks!!!” That made me laugh way too hard!
Great info. Hygiene on the trail is tricky but important.
A little tip regarding deodorant... I do bring a plain old Speed Stick with me, partly to help contain the stink, but more importantly because I use it to quell bug bite itch. If you rub a fresh bite with deodorant or antiperspirant, the aluminum chloride in it will help your body to reduce the histamine reaction, and reabsorb/reduce the fluid buildup that causes bites to itch. I find this trick makes my bites stop itching and pretty much go away after about 24 hours. Since I'm terribly bothered by bug bites (normally, they take a couple weeks to go away on me), the deodorant trick is a total sanity-saver for me.
Your first hygiene on the trail video helped get my daughter on they trail where this father came up a bit short. My long time hiking partner used her late mothers tea towels for towels. Then relished stashing them in the dark corners of my trailhead truck at days end. Practice the bidet thing in the shower before hitting the trail.
That got a little cringy but the details make the difference. One of the better hygiene vids I’ve seen.
One thing regarding cat holes though… Why suggest a trekking pole stick or a rock to dig your cat hole? Get a trowel people, it’s a tool you use every day and they weigh a half an ounce. Take pride and leave no trace. It’s the number one bad rap thru hikers get.
Deuce of Spades really missed a chance calling it the Little Deuce Scoop
The trail bidet changed my hiking life. A little bit of a learning curve, but then there's no looking back(or toilet paper). 🙂
I’m glad someone finally talks about feet shaving.
Hello Dixie, I never comment but I wanted to thank you for doing this serie ! You could have made 100 videos with stupid clickbait tittles (unfortunately this disease has spread even in the hiking community...) but you decided instead to make a few videos going straight to the point, well structured and pleasing to watch (no artificial cuts, zoom in/out, loud music). Thank you from France !
Real good advice. I have followed 4 through hikers and no one wants to talk about this and don’t. I haveIBS. If it goes in my mouth it comes out fast. Just my life. This limits what I do. I was hiking some years ago, had recently had a hamburger and f f. While on the trail it hit. The terrain was steep on one side and a creek on the other. I climbed the bank and hid behind a tree. It was a runny mess and would not end. I used baby wipes but still had it all over my shoes and pant legs. What a mess. Other people had come up the trail and just knew I was going to be seen. I can laugh now but then a horrible nightmare. Just thought I would share my experience in the woods in the NC mountain. Byeeeeee.
Bidets are awesome! I do use a little tp to dry off. Effective, and really cuts down (eliminates) monkey butt. The need for a dedicated bottle is mostly mental and accuracy. 😉
Dixie, you are so very helpful and giving.
I don't even reach into bags in my own house. The sanitary and polite thing to do is to pour some into a container, on a napkin or in your hand.
The idea of menstrual cups are great but they didn’t work for me, your hands have to be totally clean whenever you use them!! I learned this from experience!!
I need to look into that portable bidet. When I lived in Malaysia, water (and your left hand - right hand only is for eating) were used to clean up after #1&2 and not TP. I personally use a female urinary device when camping (and road trips during the pandemic when public restrooms were closed), and a pee rag. For my monthly flow, I use reusable silver infused menstrual pads. Used ones go into a bag until I can wash them. But I’m 50 and my flow is very light (and irregular again). For my hair, I wear a snood to keep it mostly clean and keep the sweat out of my eyes.
No button to turn that function 'off' but there are some foods that can put that function on hold. Watch out for things that put that function on 'continuous play'
Don't forget the little pink Pepto tabs for the first aid kit, sometimes worth their weight in gold.
A couple of years ago I had surgery that precluded me from showering and I was given a large package of towelettes ( much like the baby wipes you mention only much larger and thicker) I have found that one of these towels used in the correct way and order, saving the arm pits, groin and backside areas for last, do a great job of cleansing. Once done I fold it up and put it in my trash bag. Probably not as readily available as the baby wipes unless there is a medical supply store or Pharmacy locally, but they are unscented and anti-microbial. If I recall right, one package is good for 10 bathing's. Nothing wrong with the baby wipes though and thought I'd just share this option for consideration for some. :-)
Well-engineered and guided Dixie, in your very pleasant style/by nature's intended.......
Isn't it the best when you drop a nice deuce in the hole, wipe and see nothing on the paper. 🤗
By the time I reached Virginia on the AT I realized I could just pull the shorts to the side, point the toes out and pee while slightly bent over. Saved me so much time verses taking the pack off and putting it back on.
Thanks Dixie, lots of good information. I find that in some instances it's very useful to have the female urinary device, but a person needs to try different ones and figure out which one works the best. Just rinse them, shake them off, put away for later.
Regarding wipes: I don't understand why so many people carry wet wipes because of the weight and you have to pack them out. A small camp cloth can be wet with water and used for a daily sponge bath, very refreshing. Then they dry quickly for use again the next day.
Good tip about the trail logs -- I never thought of that. Really, sometimes it's just better not to think of all the cooties that a person is exposed to!
Happy hiking!
A very well done video. Dixie you did a great job with straight forward facts plainly stated.
So good that you cover these subjects, so many don't as it's "not done" or "awkward", but we all do it and we all wonder why. Thanks!
To save the extra weight, I always borrow my hiking buddy’s water bottle to use as my bidet water canon!
Forget the AP, this information goes for even a half day trip anywhere in the world where facilities are not readily available. Even in a small country like the Netherlands.
I love my travel bidet. I use it to rinse off. It doesn’t rinse out all my poop but it rinses off a lot. Then I use my baby wipes to wipe off the rest. But it really is good when you aren’t bathing daily the bidet helps us ladies feel cleaner down there after I pee. Then dry off with a pee rag that I air out then put in my bidet ziplock. You can practice using it at home on the toilet. I use a small water bottle that doesn’t last long in a pack so replace it at each town if you can. You don’t need a big bottle. Just something that easily squeezes. At times I will rinse then use a baby wipe with soap then rinse off if I’m feeling icky down there. But the water and a baby wipe is usually enough. Toilet paper is not my fav thing to carry. If you don’t have water(doesn’t need to filtered water) then baby wipes are my favs. In an area where there is a lot of water I sometimes bring wipes that have been dried out as well as wet ones.
Another option for the period issue is wait till your about 52 to 54 years of age and are no longer having periods!!! Now that I am at that age (I am 54 years old now) I am interested in doing a through hike of the Appalachian trail!!!
I also have a Elapee which makes going pee much easier in the great outdoors! I have a HappyBottom travel Bidet and absolutely love it. I even got an extra to keep at home and one I keep in my poop kit. I also use the travel bidet to clean up my parts when needed. You feel much cleaner and don't use as much toilet paper.
The log book point.
Bruh. I'm never touching one without hand sanitizer ever again.
Hand sanitizer is good but there will probably still be a good amount of strange poop on your hands even after, so best to wash your hands as well before touching your bag or anything. And sadly sanitizer does not kill the virus. Those books are as dirty as the inside of toilets, so it’s just like dipping your hand in a public toilet 🤢
For saving space and wait and water those little sinus squeeze bottles work better then what she recomends
Since we’re going there ( and thanks for addressing this stuff Dixie), Grammy and I have lived off grid ( no plumbing) for seven years, AND I find reducing hair surrounding the “ toothless one” facilitates post poo clean up. Hope this is not too gross🥹
💀🤣💀LOVE this comment!
I was curious about that. Use a small trimmer I guess, and how long does it stay off? Curious how fast hair in that part of the body grows. Thanks for the comment.
With regard to the bidet - it really doesn't require that much water per use. Spraying from the front toward the back, works best, I've found. A pee rag works great to pat dry - and yay! We get to save some trees!
A bidet is a godsend for anyone who has had, currently has, or is susceptible to hemorrhoids. You can also use it a little beforehand which helps get you cleaner afterward, and with less water. Also, I use a single cottonball each night with a drop or two of witch hazel from a tiny squeeze bottle and wipe out armpits to help keep odor down. Near zero weight for a odor management.
OMG, doo doo snacks 🤣
Dixie, your videos and advice are always useful and welcome for those who travel or backpack. Thank you.
PS: Please give a hug to Fancy Mae💞
For anyone considering trying out a urinary director (Shewee, Freshette, etc.), get one! I have two: one with my backpacking stuff, one in my go-bag. Total game changer!
Great advice on personal topics! TY!
I made my own toilet out of a collapsible stool from Amazon (the kind that has shock cord, and you pull it apart and twist to collapse it). I cut a 5x5 hole in the stool seat, reinforced it with webbing, and attach a compostable bag in the hole...no more squatting. Dig a cathole and bury it. And I have a camp stool at the end of the day, so I don't have to sit on the ground. The compost bag breaks down in 180 days, which is faster than the TP. The stool is 1.5 lbs, but well worth the weight for the comfort it provides.
Lush makes toothie tabs. They are awesome if you are hiking. Just pop the tablet in your mouth and it starts foaming up when you chew it and then just brush. Love them.
Women should never shame other women! Period. Uff da. Nice summary of options.
Thanks for the info. Shake, shake me all done. Words of my 3 year old many years ago. My kids were pooping and peeing with the bears from the time they got out of dippers. The only problem was when we were at home, they would go outside to pee. Practice with the squirt bottle at home, in your back yard, after dark. To dry your junk or have leaks and squirts cut a square off your micro towel or cut up a small swim towel. Micro fiber holds 8 times it went of liquid. You don't need to brush your teeth, only the one you want to keep. Go old school with your teeth, brush with salt. No smells for the critters. Inn 20 years as a wilderness leader alone or with my wife. I can't really remember a woman having a problem with their period.
I don't think i could ever do this #1 i wear contacts #2 i shave every morning 365 days a year. The stubble that grows overnight esp on my pits would drive me insane. I would lose my mind. I tried growing my body hair out many yrs ago.. that works. But it takes several weeks to stop feeling prickly.
LOL on the ... "bootie wiggle"
Man and Women it is very helpful to carry a super large pad. It can be used for first aide for cuts You can use a clean bandanna or even a sock to hold it in place
For toenail fungus, get a small bottle of concentrated Undecylenic Acid. Comes with a dropper. I have had good success with it.
Such an important topic....handled so well!! Thank you!
Your video of the armadillo surprised me since this is an Appalachian trail video but sure enough they live in the southern range of the Appalachian trail well how bout that you learn something new every day
I’ve always wondered. Thanks for sharing.
All for the menstrual cups! Definitely practice beforehand. With practice- they are even easier than tampons
Doodoo snacks! 😂
Lol I thought your gonna say it needs to be 200 ft deep.
Great info.. thanks for the video
Hey, remember when you lost a couple toe nails? This vid reminded me of that … what can you do to prevent that ?? I am having issues with one of my big toes but they don’t cram into the front of my shoes
You are a very beautiful lady and I love what you do because I have a lady and she is new to the woods and she is a little worried about it and you helped her a lot. Thank you for your knowledge and help me keep her out in the woods longer I love your Channel keep it up girl 💯👍👍❤
Not sure why it’s necessary still in 2022 to objectify someone by referring to their physical appearance and addressing a stranger as “girl” makes me outright cringe. I think instead she deserves to be complimented for the professional way she deals with these delicate subjects so in that respect I agree with you. I hope your companion is encouraged to overcome her uncertainties and give backpacking a try.
Hold on….I just read your other comment on another video from the same creator and now I’m convinced you’re a creepy incel and if you have a “lady” she’s probably locked up in your basement. Expressing love for strangers you’ve seen on the internet is NOT NORMAL or appropriate.
Ha. 5:34 I'm guessing that was not a Roll Tide moment.
Unfortunately, even if you have good hand hygiene, alcohol based sanitizers do not kill the norovirus. A bleach or more environmentally based hydrogen peroxide solution is recommended, or old fashioned soap and hot water. Norovirus can live on a surface for up to 42 days, so you might want to skip a privy.
I liked the toe tips ... Thx Dixie 😊
Doo Doo snacks! Lol!
That toenail thing - Did you just make that up or were you speaking from experience? Ecccch!! I only clip mine out in the back yard - fully enclosed by a stockade fence so as not to gross out the neighbors.
Love this video
1. There's absolutely no way squirting even a half bottle of water water through a bidet can get everything off. If you poo big like I do, that normally takes at least 2-3 wipes with TP, some squirts of water only could only get off some of the big bits.
2. It would take A LOT of water to completely clean that area. That's a lot of weight to carry just for your bum as a standard large Smartwater bottle weighs 2 pounds full. Not exactly lightweight.
3. Nobody wants your poo water all over the surface of the ground to step in. Just bury a lil toilet paper and wipe the area with a baby wipe at night before sleep. That's as clean as you can get.
I think about doin that every time I'm trucking on mass pike on the ladder you go under over pass that's the trail . Aint science to shit out side should have,wipes for but .
so I've been looking at lots of hiking/camping vids and have never found the answer to a question I have... what do you do with the tooth paste after you're done brushing your teeth? is it ok to just spit it out anywhere??
I know, this is so rarely discussed in these videos! I brought it up on the FB group, and people who would otherwise leave no trace didn't seem to think there was anything wrong with spraying the minty water around camp. Me, no way. I do it out in the woods like poo, and bury it. It's VERY scented.
The Ridge Runner in the Smokies asked us to swallow it or spit out in our garbage bag and pack it out because toothpaste is highly scented as you mention. 👍
you can use teeth powder made from herbs without chemicals so that you wont have to worry about it
You prob eat doodoo snacks
Go Girl Cool Day ...
Then you be eatin doo doo snacks ha ha lol
With the bidet are people using dirty water straight from the stream or purified water? Seems like you could probably just use water straight from the stream so then you might be able to save weight by using your dirty water bottle and then putting your filter back on after since it should filter out any nasties if anything gets in the bottle and rinsing the bottle off is easy enough using some soap and your clean water if you’re worried about the exterior.
What about when aunt flo is in town?
These major trails don't require that the hikers use biodegradable toilet paper?
gotta b clean as best as pos . gotta brush teeth. wash face n down below. feet ! .
i like bidet's .... ps.. learn to use least amount of water 4 the job !!!!!!!! i like tp on trail cuz it does more than 1 thing ... its a paper towel. blow nose. bandaid... etc .
i wipe THEN wash w bidet cuz that helps keep rash or itching away. and just the feeling of being clean !!!!!!!!!!! wow !! a dedicated enima bulb is great 2 cuz 1x in am is good all day !!!!!!!!! its clean down there 2 !!!!! I can't say enuf about clean face,bottom n feet !!!!
it makes me feel ready to loadup n go !! OR !!!! after a day out there pushing along, camp 4 the eve is setup, dinner is doing it's thing, a nice cleaning is a totatl mind reset !!! helps sleep. kepp bedding cleaner !!! if w some1 it's just real courteous !!! 8) lol.
We have gotten conflicting information…..when you do a raft trip down either the San Juan River or the Colorado River, you are told by the guides to pee in the river and do other business in the containers they carry on the trip and provide. Seems to be in contrast to what you are saying…..can you explain? You have also stated that you need to pee a certain distance from the trail and dig a cat hole for bowel movements. When we did the Tour Mont Blanc in Europe(France, Italy, and Switzerland), our hiking guide told us to pee right on the trail(not bowel movements), that it was better for the plant life in the Alps to do it right it right on the trail. Seems like so much conflicting info we are given. Thanks for your thoughts….
Seems like the examples you gave were such that those "guides" were giving tips that best cater to their profit margin, i e. leaning heavy in the direction that makes for happy, not inconvenienced customers.
Urine will naturally evaporate In the water and become "safely" diluted. Obviously, it works better in moving water. However, this is pretty old-school info and the evidence showing up in water tests indicates drugs that people take are finding their way into bodies of water.
Those guides are wrong and that is terrible they’re instructing people to urinate in Rivers! Shame on them.
Leave No Trace states that although urinating on vegetation has no direct effect, animals are attracted to the salts and can defoliate plants. Therefore they state "Urinating on rocks, pine needles, and gravel is less likely to attract wildlife. Diluting urine with water from a water bottle can help minimize negative effects." This seems to match the purpose behind what your guides said.
Nature trails are not all alike in natural climate, human foot traffic, political and economic interests, et cetera. Different places have different kinds of risks to flora and fauna; some of it might even be only little better than guesswork when you consider the track record of the so-called "experts"
Dry shaving is hard core! I've tried it on my face and oh my, not pleasant.
With practice you can actually keep a beard trimmed very short with just a pair of scissors and a small mirror.
I recently went to Philmont Scout Reserve in New Mexico and they said not to use deodorant because it could attract wildlife. I wore a wool t-shirt for almost nine days and I didn’t smell as bad as I thought I would. ( maybe my nose just went dead)
♥️
Doodoo snacks lol delish.
Knights do all this without the backpack. Ninjas as well.
I feel funny hearing the restroom procedures lol.
Is there any reason why you couldn't use untreated water 'twixt your nethers? Probably more of a concern for the ladies than the lads.
So here’s something I’ve been wondering…why don’t you let your ‘wet wipes’ dry out and just sprinkle each one with water just before using?
For the period thing, what if it’s a few days before you get into town to throw the bag away? And your just walking with a bag of bloody pads for days and fear attracting predators... also if it starts to smell where people can smell it while in camp, do they have cheap smell proof bags? Or does a zip lock do ok?
Got a good laugh at the start of the feminine hygiene portion of the video for us guys to jump to 22:02 to pass over it!