Cleaning Yourself When Camping: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Camping trips can be one of the most enjoyable activities for families, groups, and individuals alike. That being said, one of the biggest challenges of camping is keeping yourself clean. Although the environment may not afford the luxury of showering with running water, there are still many ways that you can maintain a certain level of hygiene while camping. As a father of three kids and an experienced camper, today we are going to explore the topic of how to properly clean yourself when camping.
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Getting Ready
Before you even leave on your camping trip, it is important to make sure that you have all the necessary supplies to keep yourself clean and hygienic. Make sure to pack wipes, baby wipes, face washes, antimicrobial soaps, and body washes that are eco-friendly and biodegradable. It is also important to bring plenty of clean towels, washcloths, and a light blanket to use. Some other items you may need are:
- Disinfecting hand-sanitizer
- A wash basin, bucket, or anything that can store and warm water
- A collapsible shower tent
- Biodegradable shampoo and soap
- Bug repellent and DEET-free sunscreen
- Clothes that can be washed and dried easily
You should also bring a basic first aid kit with you in case of any injuries or illnesses that could cause complications during your trip.
Take Regular Baths
If possible, try to take a full bath or shower at least once a day to ensure that your body and hair are clean and free of sweat and dirt. If you do not have access to a lake or river, you can use a basin to fill with water and use. Make sure to only use biodegradable soaps and lotions to avoid damaging the environment. Additionally, use natural body scrubs or loofahs to scrub your body clean. This will help remove any excess dirt or grime. To keep your skin hydrated and to help combat the effects of sun exposure, consider using a moisturizer after your bath or shower.
Give Yourself Spot Treatments
If taking a full bath is not possible, you can use wipes or baby wipes to give yourself mini spot treatments throughout the day. This will help keep your skin clean and free of dirt, sweat, and oils. Additionally, washing your face with your preferred cleanser and cold water a few times a day can remove any caked on dirt. Don’t forget to use a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
Don’t Forget Your Hair
Your hair also needs properly taking care of while camping and it’s important to keep it clean to avoid any infections. To keep your hair clean, you can use a natural, non-toxic shampoo and conditioner. If you don’t have a bath or shower nearby, consider using a dry shampoo to freshen up your hair in between washes. Additionally, make sure to cover your head while sleeping to avoid any bugs making residence in your hair overnight.
Change Clothes Regularly
It’s important to bring lightweight, breathable clothing that can be washed and dried quickly. To reduce any unpleasant odors, make sure you wash your clothes regularly. If you don’t have access to a washing machine, bring a few sets of clothing so you can rotate them over the duration of your camping trip. Additionally, make sure to bring a light jacket or a sweatshirt for cooler evenings.
Conclusion
Cleaning yourself while camping is possible if you plan properly and make sure you have all the necessary supplies. Make sure to take regular baths or spot treatments throughout the day, wash your hair with natural shampoo and conditioner, and change clothes regularly. As with anything, proper hygiene and cleanliness will ensure a more enjoyable and safe camping trip for everyone.