How to pee on a hike – simple ways to do it

Hiking through the UK’s stunning trails – whether it’s the Coast to Coast, Hadrian’s Wall, the South Downs Way, or any of our other trails – offers breathtaking views and a refreshing escape into nature. However, a common challenge hikers face can be the limited number of toilets along these routes. If you’re venturing into remote areas or simply don’t spot a convenient bush, managing the need to pee can become a bit tricky. If you’re feeling self-conscious about peeing outdoors, remember that many hikers face similar situations. With a few practical tips, you can handle this situation like a pro and ensure your hike remains enjoyable.

Planning ahead

Using our hiking app can be a great way to plan. The app features a toilet icon that marks any toilets we’re aware of along the trail. Be sure to check it before and during your hike to help plan your breaks. Even if toilets aren’t marked on the map, cafes, pubs, and visitor centres along the route often have facilities. It’s worth stopping to ask if you can use their toilets.

Regular breaks can also help manage your pee needs and allow you to search for a suitable spot if required. This can make your hike more enjoyable and less stressful.

Checking a trail map before setting out can be really helpful. Look for areas that might offer natural cover, like thick bushes or large rocks. Knowing where these spots are can make it easier when you need to find privacy. For example, on trails like the South Downs Way, you might find wooded sections or areas near water sources that could provide some cover.

When it comes to peeing near water sources, such as streams or rivers, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid peeing directly into the water to prevent contamination. Instead, aim to pee a reasonable distance away from the water’s edge – ideally, at least 30 metres away. This distance helps ensure that any urine is absorbed by the ground and doesn’t enter the water source. Choose a spot with good drainage to help minimise environmental impact. Additionally, avoid areas where waste could wash back into the water due to heavy rain or high water levels.

Discreet peeing techniques

If natural cover is limited, turning your back to a wall or large rock can provide some privacy. Using nearby bushes or trees as partial screens can also help. If you’re wearing a dress or skirt, lifting it and positioning yourself with your back to the wind may offer additional privacy. Wearing a dress can be a practical solution for privacy on the trail. From our own experience, we find that dresses allow you to pee quickly and discreetly – often before anyone even notices. Simply lift the dress and position yourself discreetly to maintain privacy. Opting for a loose, flowing dress made from quick-drying material can provide comfort and make handling your needs easier. For those in pants, finding a spot where you can shield yourself with natural features can work well.

Pee cloths are a reusable fabric option designed for clean-up after peeing. They’re an eco-friendly alternative to disposable wipes. After peeing, use the cloth to wipe yourself. If you can’t rinse it immediately, store it in a sealable bag until you can clean it at the end of the day. This helps keep any mess contained. Keeping used pee cloths in a separate sealable bag can also help manage hygiene and avoid unpleasant smells in your pack.

Panty liners can help catch drips and keep your clothing dry. Place a liner in your underwear before heading out. After peeing, remove the liner and pack it out with other waste to stay clean and fresh.

Carrying a small towel or sarong can offer additional privacy. Use it as a makeshift screen by holding it up around yourself or by asking a friend to drape it for you. Choose a lightweight, quick-drying towel or sarong that’s easy to pack for added privacy when natural cover is scarce.

Leave no trace

Avoid leaving tissues or toilet paper behind on the trail. Packing out used tissues helps keep the trail clean. Use a small, sealable bag for packing out tissues and panty liners. It’s a simple way to manage waste and maintain cleanliness. Opt for biodegradable wipes or toilet paper if needed and pack them out. Rinse and clean pee cloths at the end of the day, and store them in a sealable bag until you can wash them. Choose spots that minimise damage to vegetation and avoid areas where waste might flow into water sources.

Addressing common concerns

If you’re feeling self-conscious about peeing in the bush, you’re not alone. Many hikers experience similar feelings. To ease your nerves, remember that most people are focused on their own hike and won’t pay much attention to you. Choosing well-covered spots and using privacy-enhancing techniques like wearing a dress or carrying a towel can help you feel more at ease. If you’re hiking with others, letting them know you’ll be using a towel or sarong for privacy can help them respect your need for discretion.

Handling bowel movements on the trail

While this guide mainly focuses on peeing, it’s worth considering how to handle bowel movements if necessary. If you need to move your bowels and no facilities are available, a small, sealable plastic jar or container might be useful. Pack a small, clean plastic jar or container in your day pack and make sure it’s sealable to keep waste secure. Line the jar with a disposable bag or liner, if possible. After use, seal the jar tightly to avoid leaks or odours. Carry the jar with you and dispose of its contents properly at the end of your hike. This helps follow Leave No Trace principles and keeps the environment clean.

Additional tips

Practising these techniques in a non-hiking setting can make them easier to manage and less stressful on the trail.

Managing your pee needs discreetly on UK trails can seem daunting to some, but with a bit of preparation and these practical tips, it’s very doable. By using our app to find any nearby facilities and following these guidelines, you can keep your hike comfortable and enjoyable while respecting the environment. And if you’re really in a tight spot, sometimes a bit of creativity – like a discreet pause behind a pile of sheep droppings – can save the day.

Happy hiking!

Main photo used with permission: © Kula Cloth / Garage Grown Gear