There’s a truth that every experienced hiker knows: the joy of the trail often comes with a bit of dirt, dust, sweat, and stinkiness. This is just part of the deal. We get a little messy, to reconnect with the earth and push our own physical capabilities.
A successful trip isn’t just about the miles we cover or the views we take in; it’s also about how we manage the details, both on the trail and after we get home. It’s about being a good steward of our body and our gear.
By our middle and later years, we’ve learned that a little bit of care goes a long way. The same principle applies in the outdoors. A clean body on the trail is a healthier, more comfortable body. A well-maintained piece of gear is one that lasts for many more adventures. This isn't about being a neat-freak; it's about enjoying the trail a little more, being prepared, resourceful, and wise.
Here are a few lessons I’ve learned over the years about keeping myself and my gear fresh and ready for the next adventure.
On the Trail: Staying Fresh and Healthy
Being out in nature doesn’t mean you have to abandon all forms of hygiene. Although some thru hikers wear this as a badge of honor, I can tell you that a little effort goes a long way toward preventing chafing, rashes, and discomfort.
- The Power of Wipes: Unscented, biodegradable wipes are your best friend on the trail. A quick "wipe-down shower" at the end of the day, especially on your face, neck, and underarms, can make you feel human again. Remember to pack out all used wipes, as even biodegradable ones don't break down quickly in the wild. A less trash producing alternative, and the one I prefer, is to carry a small liquid soap container and a small cloth. With a little water at the end of the day in my tent along with a couple drops of soap helps me relax and sleep much better.
- The Unscented Advantage: Bears and other wildlife are curious about scents, so avoid scented soaps, lotions, and deodorants. Using an unscented products can help with chafing and a bit of odor control without attracting unwanted animal attention.
- The Rule of 200 Feet: When you need to wash yourself or your dishes, always do it at least 200 feet away from any water source (lakes, streams, or rivers). Use a small amount of biodegradable soap, and let the soil naturally filter the water as you pour it out. Never use soap directly in a water source.
- Let Your Feet Breathe: A very important part of your body to keep clean on a hike is your feet. At every break, take off your shoes and socks. Let them air out. This prevents blisters and keeps your feet from getting "pruney," which is a direct path to foot pain. At the end of the day, a quick wipe down of your feet and a change into clean, dry socks for camp is a game-changer.
After the Trip: A Little TLC for Your Gear
The moment you get home, before you even unpack your bag, take a few minutes to show your gear some love. The small effort you put in now will extend the life of your equipment and save money in the long run.
- Air Everything Out: Your tent, sleeping bag, and even your backpack are likely damp from sweat, condensation, or a surprise rain shower. As soon as you can, take everything out and hang it up to air dry. Never store gear that's even slightly damp, as it will quickly grow mold and mildew.
- Clean Your Boots: Your boots or trail runners have worked hard for you, so give them a good cleaning. Use a soft brush to remove dried mud and dirt. For tougher stains, use a little water and a mild soap designed for outdoor gear. Let them air dry completely—avoid using a heat source, which can damage the materials.
- Wipe Down and Empty Your Pack: Empty every single pocket of your backpack. You’d be surprised what you find—half-eaten snacks, crumpled maps, or a hand full of gravel. Shake out all the dirt and crumbs, then give it a wipe down with a damp cloth. A gentle, hand wash in the tub is best for a more thorough cleaning.
- Wash Your Clothing Correctly: Technical fabrics need a different kind of care. Avoid using regular detergents and fabric softeners, which can damage the fibers and reduce their wicking and water-repellent properties. Use a specialized sports-wash or a mild, unscented detergent and hang to dry.
Just as a lifetime of physical activity requires a little maintenance and self-care, so too does a lifetime of outdoor adventure. By paying a little attention to these details, you're not just taking care of your gear and your body—you're preparing for all the miles still to come.