As a person who loves the great outdoors, I can’t help but reflect on my adventurous spirit and the little mishaps that have colored my childhood. Picture this: I was at a summer picnic, surrounded by laughter and the mouthwatering smell of burgers and hot dogs sizzling on the grill. Kool-Aid in hand, I was lost in play, but suddenly, nature called, and I was left in a bit of a predicament.
You see, back then, peeing outside wasn’t something I felt comfortable doing. I was raised in a small town where privacy was scarce, and the thought of squatting in the woods made my heart race for all the wrong reasons. So, with all the excitement bubbling inside me, I needed some solo exploration time in the woods, hoping to quell the pressing urge that was building up.
As I meandered down the trail, a wave of urgency washed over me, and I instinctively clamped my hand over my zipper area, trying to hold on. The need to relieve myself grew more insistent, yet I maintained my brave façade. I even bravely attempted to unzip, only to hesitate at the last moment, convinced someone might be passing by.
With a deep breath, I tried again, finally pulling down my panties upto my knees and exposing my fair bum to the world. In that moment, I felt utterly vulnerable, my heart racing at the thought of my exposed backside. Just as I began to tinkle, an overwhelming sense of being watched sent a jolt of panic through me, and I quickly held my own and yanked my panties back up.
In a rather humorous twist, I ended up having a little accident, which forever tarnished my favorite trail pants with the nickname “peed pants.”. How I wished I had worn a dress that day. Now, I see why we love dresses—they offer a sense of protection for our vulnerabilities. I need not expose my delicate parts to the entire world.” . There’s something about the flow of a dress that feels empowering, as if it wraps around us like a comforting embrace. It allows us to move freely while still keeping our dignity intact, even in those unpredictable moments. Dresses can be forgiving, giving us the confidence to enjoy our adventures without the worry of awkwardness. I think back to that day and realize how a simple, well-fitted dress along with a pair of atletic shorts, could have turned an embarrassing mishap into a carefree experience.
I spent the rest of the day in solitude, hoping to dry off unnoticed. To this day, that memory brings a warm smile to my face, a sweet reminder of those carefree days of youth—and a valuable lesson about being prepared. Because when nature calls, it really is best to answer!
Fast forward to today, and I find myself still embracing adventure, but now with the right gear that makes those little trips into nature so much easier. The truth is, for us women, peeing outdoors has often felt like an insurmountable challenge. Traditional hiking pants and athletic wear can leave us feeling exposed and vulnerable, making what should be a simple act into a daunting task.
While embracing the freedom of peeing outdoors, there are a few essential reminders to keep in mind. First and foremost, please don’t pee off a cliff! Not only is it a safety hazard for yourself and others below, but it also leads to unwanted splatter and can disrupt the natural environment. Always choose a spot that’s safe, discreet, and away from trails or water sources to protect both your dignity and the beauty of nature.
The Problem: Why Peeing Outdoors Isn’t Easy for Women
Further, we need to keep hydrated, and just because our bladders are bursting doesn’t mean we should let it stop us from keeping our bodies hydrated. Finding a secluded spot, lowering our pants, exposing our bums and feeling the cool wind as though the whole world is watching—it’s enough to make even the most seasoned adventurer hesitate. This little inconvenience can put a damper on our outdoor adventures and may cause us to rethink our plans before hitting the trails. Instead of letting the fear of peeing in the wild hold us back, we can explore innovative solutions, embrace our surroundings, and make the most of our time outdoors. After all, a little preparation can turn a potential hassle into a liberating experience!
As someone who cherishes both nature and my comfort, I can’t help but feel a flutter of vulnerability in those moments. It’s as if the wilderness has its own gaze, reminding us of our intimacy with the earth.
Is this how you feel about finding the perfect place to take a break? It can be a delicate balance between embracing freedom and finding that hidden haven where we can feel at ease.
Conquering Privacy Fears in the Great Outdoors
Everyone else is doing it, that’s a universal truth, but not everyone feels comfortable doing it with an audience. If the thought of someone catching a glimpse of your underwear in the wild sends a chill down your spine, know that you’re not alone. Whether you’re a shy pee-oner or just yearn for a bit of privacy in nature, there are gentle ways to maintain your dignity.
With a few thoughtful strategies, you can create a sense of seclusion and comfort, allowing you to embrace the beauty of the outdoors without that lingering sense of exposure. After all, it’s possible to connect with nature while still feeling secure in your own space.
Woodland Hideaways – The charm of the forest is in its countless natural screens. A little detour from the main path can lead you to a majestic oak or a thicket of bushes, providing instant privacy, thanks to Mother Nature. If worries about prying eyes linger, bring along a trusted friend to stand guard—think of them as your loyal wilderness protector, ready to shield your moment of peace with a leafy banner.
Car-side Concealment – The open road can feel a bit too exposed when nature calls. But don’t worry, fellow adventurer! A clever two-door trick provides surprisingly good cover. Just open both the front and back doors, and voilà—your very own pee sanctuary! For extra comfort and to avoid any splashes, try sitting on the front doorframe. It lowers your profile and creates a natural shield, turning your outdoor moment into a breeze (literally!).
Bonus Pee-formance Tips
Embrace the Inevitable: Remember, everyone has to go, even the fiercest adventurers! So take a deep breath, channel your inner wilderness warrior, and own it!
Cleanliness is Key: Bring along a soft washcloth or baby wipes for that post-pee freshness. No one wants to deal with any sticky situations!
Let Gravity Be Your Ally: When squatting, aim for a downhill slope. Gravity will help whisk everything away, keeping your space tidy and free of unwanted puddles.
Splash-Proof Your Pee Experience: Opt for absorbent surfaces like sand or loose dirt instead of splash-prone rocks or hard-packed earth. A little foresight can make your outdoor moments so much smoother!
With a sprinkle of creativity and a touch of bravery, you can overcome your privacy worries and fully enjoy the freedom of peeing outdoors. So venture forth, intrepid adventurer, and own your space in nature! Remember, Mother Nature embraces everyone, even those navigating bladder challenges with a sense of modesty.
“How on earth do you pee in the wild?”
This one’s pretty straightforward: find a spot where you feel at ease pulling down your underwear. Here are some pro tips to keep in mind:
In open areas with little cover, consider facing away from others. This way, when you squat, your bare backside remains out of sight while you maintain a bit of dignity.
You don’t need to trek far; just be strategic. Position yourself behind trees and bushes to create a natural barrier. This will obscure the view and provide you with the privacy you desire.
Lastly, there’s nothing quite like the unpleasant surprise of being poked in your most delicate and vulnerable spot while squatting. Make sure to scan your surroundings and choose a position where leaves, branches, or bushes won’t intrude on your personal space. We’ve all had that experience, and it’s definitely not fun!
Definitely not the ideal hiding spot!
Perfectly Positioned for Optimal Coverage
Facing the group can actually provide the most privacy.
Facing the group after finding a private spot can provide a sense of security and distraction. It lets you keep an eye on your surroundings, reducing the chances of an unexpected interruption. This position also helps you feel less exposed, as your focus shifts from the act itself to the camaraderie around you. Plus, it makes it easier to gauge when the coast is clear. And the best part? Your legs in a full squat offer some protection, keeping your view discreet while you handle your business!
The Slope of the Ground
You might wonder why this is important. It all comes down to basic physics! When the ground slopes away from you, your pee won’t end up in your shoes. The angle helps direct any spatter away from your ankles. Avoiding that rookie mistake of having it run back into your shoes is key—we’ve all experienced that discomfort!
Finding the Right Angle
Finding the right angle is crucial when mastering the classic full squat for outdoor peeing. Practicing in rubber boots can be a game-changer, helping you get comfortable with your stance and positioning. By doing so, you minimize the risk of an awkward mishap—like peeing all over your boots! This practice not only builds confidence but also allows you to focus on your surroundings instead of worrying about potential messes. With the right technique, you can embrace the freedom of nature without the stress, ensuring that your outdoor adventures remain enjoyable and hassle-free.
Support Matters
We all need a little support sometimes. Here are four main positions you can use when it’s time to answer nature’s call.
The Classic Squat
Begin by positioning your feet in a comfortable, wide stance—this provides a solid foundation. Slowly lower your hips down toward the ground, finding your balance in this deep squat. The deeper you go, the more stable you’ll feel as your center of gravity naturally lowers. To keep everything neat and prevent any mishaps, gently gather your pants in front of you, ensuring they stay out of harm’s way. This classic stance maximizes your comfort and gives you the confidence to embrace nature’s call. It might stress your knees a bit, but that’s just because you haven’t practiced this over the years! And for an added dose of fun, consider making it a group practice! It’s all the more enjoyable when the guys join in too—nature’s calls can truly be a shared adventure!
The Tree Hug Position
Not everyone can manage a deep squat—my knees certainly don’t appreciate it anymore! Instead, try this supportive hug position: face a sturdy tree and wrap your arms around the trunk. Position your feet close to the base and bend your knees to about 90 degrees. Lean back gently, using the tree for support. This creates a “chair” position, allowing your arms to hold you up while you find comfort in nature.
Rock, wall or stump— I’ve Got Your Back
No trees in sight to lend you support? No worries! Look for a sturdy rock or any solid surface you can lean against. By reaching back, your arm can help stabilize you while you adopt a “chair” position. If your arms are feeling fatigued, you can lean your back against a tree while maintaining a wall squat. Just be cautious with this option, as it might increase the chance of splatter!
Take a Seat
This classic method takes me back to my childhood when I hesitated to pee in the woods. Just find a fallen tree, pull down your pants, and sit with your bum hanging over the edge. It’s not only a great option for peeing but also for pooping! This position helps minimize the risk of splattering on your shoes or pants and doesn’t demand much leg or arm strength. Just make sure to check for any pesky bits of bark that might cling to you when you stand back up!
Alright, you’ve chosen your favorite position and maybe even practiced a bit in the shower—now you’re a peeing pro! But what about the inevitable “dripping”? Let’s be honest: dealing with that extra moisture isn’t fun, and relying on your panties to soak it up is far from pleasant. Here are some tips I’ve found helpful. If you have your own tricks, please share—we’d love to hear them!
Carry Toilet Paper or Pee Wipes
Always a smart move! Having toilet paper or pee wipes on hand can make your outdoor experience so much more comfortable. They’re perfect for quick clean-ups and ensure you stay fresh after your adventure. Just remember to pack out any used materials to keep the wilderness pristine!
No wipes—Shake it Off
It’s not the most glamorous option, but it can help! I’ve always felt a bit silly trying to wiggle those last drops away. While in the “chair” position, gently bounce your bum up and down in quick succession to encourage those final drops to shake off.
Lip dribble
Remember that thing we did with our lips as kids we moved a finger up and down making a noise that delights us? well we need to do the same so that we need not shake our bums around. Typically, I save this advice for our Women’s Intro to Backpacking course. While in the “chair” position, simply place a hand over your pubic area (yes, you know what I mean!) and move it quickly side to side. This technique helps shake off those last droplets without the awkward bum-waving! It’s discreet and effective—definitely worth trying!
Snow
Fresh and surprisingly refreshing, snow can be a great way to soak up any extra moisture. Simply make a small snowball and use it like you would toilet paper. It’s a classic tip for winter adventures!
Pack it Out
Toilet paper is convenient but can take up space. To make it more manageable, tear the paper off the roll and store it in a large Ziploc bag, placing a smaller one inside for used paper. Seal the smaller bag tightly, and when you return home, toss it in the trash. To minimize your plastic waste, consider using a plastic peanut butter jar—these work wonderfully for storing used toilet paper and other waste until you find a proper disposal option. After your hike, just wash the jar and pack it away for your next adventure. And please, I can’t emphasize this enough: never leave toilet paper behind in the woods. Let’s take care of our parks and keep nature beautiful!
Bring bear spray with you
The 2024 Solution: Zip Hers Hiking Pants & Athletic Wear
Now that I’ve highlighted the challenges of peeing in the wild, we can truly appreciate the innovative solutions that make this task a little easier.
Let me share this fabulous new find called Zip Hers! Picture hiking pants, shorts, and leggings crafted just for us ladies. They feature a clever zipper that stretches from one hip to the other, right across the pubic and bum areas. It’s designed to give you that ease and freedom, letting you take care of business without the hassle of pulling everything down. Can you believe it? When you unzip, it practically divides your pants in two! The zipper runs from the front waistband to the back, so you can do your thing without feeling exposed.
Now, they say it’s a game-changer, but I haven’t tried it yet. I’m curious about how to manage my panties—do I just go commando like Demi Moore?
Either way, it’s definitely an option that makes outdoor adventures a bit more comfortable and stylish. We’re all about that empowerment, right?
Another great option is the Gnara Go There Shorts. These beauties come with the ingenious GoFly Technology—a hidden zipper that lets you squat and go while keeping your dignity intact. Say goodbye to the frantic search for a secluded spot, the struggle with layers, and that dreaded pee anxiety. It’s truly a game-changer!
FUD’s
But my go-to tech option has to be a female urination device (FUD). Initially, I was skeptical—it seemed silly and not very hygienic. And let’s be honest, I don’t think men are particularly hygienic either! But the idea of peeing like a man, while keeping my lady parts away from those pesky outdoor critters, was tempting. The allure of quicker pee breaks without the knee aches and the convenience of not having to step out of the tent at night really won me over. I’ve never looked back since; the FUD is nothing short of glorious!
One little misnomer? The name “FUD”! I know a few men who could use it, especially those who’ve had a penectomy, like that poor guy whose fishing adventure left him without a penis. I reiterate an important point,
Protect your genitals while hiking!
Just as a large fish can pose a danger to unsuspecting swimmers, we should be cautious of scorpions lurking in rocky areas. Avoid exposing delicate parts to these types of surfaces or water fronts where potential hazards may hide. Stay aware and keep your adventures safe!
In any case, we can all experience the joy of peeing standing up and bending our hose pipes away when not required. In my pre-hiking briefs, I help men feel comfortable with the idea by calling them UUDs, or Universal Urination Devices, as they offer the convenience of avoiding a midnight trek out of the tent and are one of the safest outdoor options. It’s all about embracing the fun and freedom of the outdoors—because whether you’re a UUD user or a FUD fan, we can all celebrate the great outdoors without the hassle!
And then there’s the pee rag. A pee rag is just what it sounds like: a reusable cloth for drying yourself after peeing, helping to save on toilet paper. Some women carry pee rags, while others swear by FUDs. Personally, I say bring both! I still find squatting much more natural than standing to pee. If I’m already taking a pack-off break and need to relieve myself, I’d prefer to grab my pee rag and pop a squat somewhere rather than being limited to just the funnel. It’s all about what feels right for you!
Here are a few options you might consider:
The PStyle
MSRP: $11.99
Weight: 0.8 oz
My personal favorite! The PStyle is sleek, lightweight, and super straightforward. Plus, it’s easy to clean—unlike some funnels that are just modified kitchen versions with complicated shapes. The PStyle is open and made of rigid plastic, so rinsing it is a breeze. Aiming is a cinch, too. Just a tip: you might want to test it out in the shower first!
Pros: Easy to clean; lightweight; inexpensive; easy to use.
Cons: Rigid lip can be rough on sensitive skin.
The Tinkle Bell
MSRP: $27.50
Weight: 1.8 oz
This one combines flexible and rigid materials. The flexible spout folds down small, and it has a soft squeegee ridge that can replace toilet paper. However, I’m not sure how I feel about “squeegee” and “my crotch” in the same sentence! Plus, it claims to have antimicrobial properties, which is a nice touch.
Pros: Softer material; eliminates need for TP; easy to clean.
Cons: Expensive; on the heavier side.
The Shewee
MSRP: $16.50
Weight: 2.5 oz
Initially, I was drawn to this FUD because of the name, but using it was a bit stressful. Aiming was tricky, and the small cup meant I had to meter my flow, which felt terrible. Cleaning is also a hassle due to its enclosed design.
Pros: Optional extension tube; easy to clean in a pinch.
Cons: Small cup; prone to leaks; heavy.
The Freshette
MSRP: $23
Weight: 1.2 oz
Similar to the Shewee, but with a deeper cup and flexible, interchangeable tube. While it offers multiple lengths, only one is realistic for thru-hiking.
Pros: Flexible tube; wide lip for comfort.
Cons: Hard to clean; expensive.
The GoGirl
MSRP: $15
Weight: 2 oz
Easily found at stores like Walmart, the GoGirl is made from flexible silicone that molds to your body. However, being fully enclosed makes cleaning a bit tricky.
Pros: Compact; soft on the skin; widely available.
Cons: Hard to aim; overflows quickly; difficult to clean.
The Pibella
MSRP: $19
Weight: 0.5 oz
I’ll admit, this one intimidates me. It’s tiny and slender, which makes me envision a lot of mess while trying to aim. Still, if you want something ultra-minimalist, this is the one for you.
Pros: Discreet; ultralight.
Cons: Difficult to aim; rigid plastic can be harsh.
So, if you’re considering adding a FUD to your hiking gear, these options could really enhance your outdoor experience!
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, navigating the great outdoors doesn’t have to come with the anxiety of finding a private place to pee. With the right tools—be it innovative apparel like Zip Hers or a trusty female urination device (FUD)—you can embrace your wild side with confidence. FUDs not only offer convenience but also allow for a more discreet and comfortable experience when nature calls. Remember to pack a pee rag for those moments when squatting feels more natural, and don’t forget the importance of keeping our beautiful parks clean. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just dipping your toes into the world of outdoor escapades, these little hacks can make all the difference. So gear up, get out there, and enjoy the freedom of nature without the stress of those pesky bathroom breaks! Happy adventuring!
…and remember to keep it respectful!