1. Skipping Handwashing Before Meals
One of the most common hygiene mistakes beginner campers make is forgetting to wash their hands before eating. Out in nature, it’s easy to get caught up in outdoor fun and overlook this important step. However, germs and bacteria are everywhere—on picnic tables, camping gear, and even on the things we touch while exploring trails or fishing by the lake. When you don’t wash your hands before meals, you risk bringing unwanted germs straight into your body, which can lead to upset stomachs or even more serious illnesses.
Why Handwashing Matters at Camp
- Nature is full of hidden germs: Even if your hands look clean, they can carry dirt, bacteria, and viruses from soil, plants, or animal droppings.
- No running water? No problem! You can use hand sanitizer or biodegradable wipes if soap and water aren’t available.
- Kids are especially vulnerable: Little ones love exploring with their hands and are more likely to put fingers in their mouths, making regular handwashing extra important for families.
When Should You Wash Your Hands While Camping?
| Activity | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Before eating | Keeps food safe from germs picked up during activities |
| After using the restroom (even outdoors) | Prevents the spread of harmful bacteria like E. coli |
| After handling garbage or cleaning up camp | Avoids transferring bacteria onto your skin or food |
| After playing with pets or wildlife spotting | Reduces risk of zoonotic diseases (illnesses that can spread from animals to humans) |
Easy Handwashing Tips for Campers
- Pack a small bottle of biodegradable soap and a collapsible water container for quick handwashing stations.
- If you’re using hand sanitizer, choose one with at least 60% alcohol for best results.
- Teach kids to sing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing hands to make sure they scrub long enough!
By making handwashing a habit at camp, you’ll help keep your whole crew healthy and happy—and ready for all the adventures ahead!
2. Ignoring Proper Dish Cleaning Methods
One of the most common hygiene mistakes beginner campers make is not cleaning their dishes the right way. It’s tempting to just rinse plates and utensils in a nearby lake or stream, but this can actually harm the environment and lead to health issues for everyone at camp. Let’s look at some common dish cleaning mistakes and how you can do it better!
Common Mistakes When Cleaning Dishes Outdoors
| Mistake | Why Its a Problem |
|---|---|
| Rinsing dishes in lakes, rivers, or streams | This pollutes water sources and can harm fish and plants. |
| Using regular (non-biodegradable) soap | Chemicals from standard soap can damage the ecosystem. |
| Leaving food scraps around camp | This attracts wildlife and creates safety risks. |
| Not sanitizing dishes properly | Bacteria can stay on your dishes and make you sick. |
Recommended Practices for Cleaning Dishes at Camp
- Always carry biodegradable soap: Look for brands labeled as “camp safe” or “biodegradable.” These break down naturally and are gentle on nature.
- Use a wash basin or collapsible sink: Fill a small tub with water away from natural water sources (at least 200 feet). Wash your dishes there instead of directly in lakes or streams.
- Strain food particles: Use a small strainer or mesh bag to catch food scraps before disposing of dirty water. Pack out all scraps or put them in trash bags.
- Sterilize when possible: After washing, rinse your dishes with hot water if you have it. You can also let them dry completely in the sun, which helps kill bacteria.
- Dispose of wastewater responsibly: Scatter strained dishwater on soil far from water sources so it can be filtered naturally by the ground.
Sample Dishwashing Routine for Families
- Scrape off all leftover food into a trash bag.
- Add warm water and a few drops of biodegradable soap to your wash basin.
- Wash dishes with a sponge or cloth.
- Rinse in a second basin of clean water.
- Let dishes air dry on a clean towel or drying rack.
- Strain out any food bits from the wash water, then scatter it away from camp and water sources.
Fun Tip for Kids:
If you have little campers, turn dishwashing into a game! Set up a “dish line” where everyone has a job—scraping, washing, rinsing, drying—and see if you can finish before your favorite campfire song ends. This helps teach responsibility while keeping things fun!
3. Improper Bathroom Habits Outdoors
When it comes to camping, one of the biggest challenges for beginners is figuring out how to properly handle bathroom needs in the great outdoors. Many new campers make mistakes that can harm the environment, wildlife, and even other people’s camping experiences. Let’s look at some of the most common errors and how you can avoid them by following Leave No Trace principles.
Common Mistakes When Using the Bathroom Outdoors
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | Better Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Not using designated toilet areas | Can pollute water sources and damage natural areas | Always use campground restrooms or vault toilets if available |
| Burying waste too close to campsites or water | Increases risk of contamination and unpleasant smells | Bury human waste at least 200 feet from water, trails, and campsites |
| Leaving hygiene waste behind (toilet paper, wipes) | Litter harms wildlife and spoils nature for others | Pack out all used toilet paper and hygiene products in sealable bags |
| Improper hand washing after bathroom use | Can lead to illness for you and your family | Use biodegradable soap and wash hands away from streams or lakes |
How to Go to the Bathroom Responsibly in Nature
- If there are toilets: Always use them! Campgrounds usually have pit toilets or portable bathrooms—these are the best option for everyone.
- If there are no facilities: Dig a “cathole” about 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet (about 70 big steps) from water, trails, or campsites. Cover it well when done.
- Packing out waste: In many popular parks, you may be required to pack out all solid waste using special bags called “wag bags” or similar products. Always check local rules before your trip.
- Toilet paper and wipes: Don’t bury them! Animals will dig them up. Put all used toilet paper and wipes into a zip-top bag and pack them out with your trash.
- Hand hygiene: Bring hand sanitizer or biodegradable soap. Clean your hands thoroughly after every bathroom visit.
Why Leave No Trace Matters for Families
The Leave No Trace principles help keep our wild places clean, safe, and beautiful for everyone—including your own family. By teaching kids good bathroom habits outdoors, you’re helping protect nature and showing respect for other campers. Plus, it makes every future adventure more enjoyable!
4. Not Storing Toothbrushes and Personal Items Correctly
Many beginner campers dont realize that where you store your toothbrush, soap, and other personal hygiene items can make a big difference in both your health and your campsite safety. Its tempting to just leave your toothbrush on a picnic table or hang your washcloth on a tree branch, but doing so can actually attract unwanted wildlife and lead to the growth of bacteria.
Why Proper Storage Matters
When you leave things like toothpaste, deodorant, or even your toothbrush out in the open, the scents can draw animals—especially raccoons, squirrels, and even bears—to your campsite. Animals have a strong sense of smell and are curious about anything that might be food. On top of that, damp or uncovered items quickly become breeding grounds for germs and bacteria.
Common Mistakes When Storing Personal Items
| Mistake | Potential Issue |
|---|---|
| Leaving toothbrushes out overnight | Attracts insects/animals; collects dirt and germs from the air |
| Storing soap or washcloths on the ground | Picks up bacteria from soil; gets wet and grows mold faster |
| Not sealing toiletry bags tightly | Scents escape, drawing wildlife; moisture builds up inside bag |
| Hanging items near sleeping area | Brings animals closer to where you rest; increases risk of contamination |
How to Store Your Hygiene Items Safely
- Use airtight containers: Keep toothbrushes and soaps in resealable plastic bags or hard cases when not in use.
- Hang away from camp: Hang toiletry bags on a tree limb away from your tent or sleeping area—about 200 feet is recommended in bear country.
- Dry before storing: Let washcloths and brushes dry completely before sealing them up to prevent mildew.
- Avoid scented products: Choose unscented hygiene products whenever possible to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Pack out what you pack in: Always take home all personal care items and trash to keep campsites clean for everyone.
A Quick Tip for Families Camping with Kids
If you’re camping with little ones, give each child their own small zippered pouch for their toothbrush and soap. This makes it easy for them to remember where their stuff goes and helps teach good camping habits early!
5. Forgetting to Manage Trash and Food Waste
Why Proper Trash Management Matters
One of the most common mistakes beginner campers make is not taking care of their trash and food waste properly. When you leave garbage or leftover food around your campsite, you’re not just making a mess—you’re inviting trouble.
Dangers of Leaving Trash Out
| Risk | What Could Happen? |
|---|---|
| Attracting Animals | Raccoons, bears, squirrels, and even insects can smell food from far away. They may come into your camp looking for snacks, which can be dangerous for both you and the animals. |
| Spreading Germs | Old food and trash are breeding grounds for bacteria. This can make your family sick if germs get onto your hands, cooking tools, or water supply. |
| Littering Nature | Leaving trash behind hurts the environment and ruins the beauty of the outdoors for everyone else. |
Easy Tips for Handling Trash and Food Waste
- Always pack trash bags and use them every time you throw something away.
- Store all food waste in sealed containers or coolers when not in use.
- If you’re in bear country, use bear-proof lockers or hang your food in a tree away from camp.
- Take all your trash with you when you leave—never leave it behind in the woods or at your campsite.
A Simple Clean-Up Checklist
- Check for any dropped food scraps around your eating area.
- Empty trash bags regularly—don’t let them overflow.
- Teach kids to always put their snack wrappers and leftovers straight into the trash bag.
Remember, keeping your campsite clean isn’t just about neatness—it’s about keeping everyone safe and protecting the outdoors for others to enjoy too!
6. Using Scented Products That Attract Wildlife
If you’re new to camping, it’s easy to forget that the woods aren’t just home to trees and birds—they’re also full of curious critters! One of the most common mistakes beginner campers make is using scented products like lotions, deodorants, shampoos, and even fruity lip balms. These pleasant smells might make us feel fresh, but they can attract animals right into your campsite.
Why Do Scents Attract Animals?
Many animals have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. Bears, raccoons, squirrels, and even skunks are always on the lookout for their next meal—and to them, your sweet-smelling soap or lotion might seem like a tasty treat or something worth investigating.
Common Scented Products That Can Attract Wildlife
| Product Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Lotion | Coconut-scented body lotion, floral hand cream |
| Deodorant | Fruity or flowery roll-ons and sprays |
| Soap & Shampoo | Berry-scented body wash, minty shampoo |
| Lip Balm | Strawberry or vanilla flavored chapstick |
| Sunscreen | Tropical or citrus-scented sunscreen lotion |
Tips for Staying Safe and Scent-Free
- Choose unscented or fragrance-free hygiene products when packing for your trip.
- Avoid applying perfumes or colognes before heading out to camp.
- Store all toiletries in airtight containers inside your car or bear-proof box—never keep them in your tent!
By skipping the scents and staying mindful about your hygiene choices, you’ll help keep both your family and local wildlife safe during your camping adventure.
7. Neglecting to Maintain Personal Cleanliness Between Activities
When you’re out camping, it’s easy to get caught up in the fun—hiking, swimming, playing games, and exploring nature. However, beginner campers often overlook the importance of keeping themselves clean between these activities. Staying fresh isn’t just about comfort—it helps you stay healthy and prevents common problems like rashes, bug bites, and even illness.
Why Personal Cleanliness Matters at Camp
After a long hike or a swim in the lake, sweat, dirt, and germs can build up on your skin. If you don’t take a moment to freshen up, it can lead to uncomfortable situations or health issues later on. Plus, maintaining good hygiene makes everyone in your group feel more comfortable!
Easy Ways to Stay Fresh at Camp
| Activity | What to Do After | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Wipe down with a wet cloth or biodegradable wipe; change into dry clothes | Removes sweat and dirt, keeps skin healthy |
| Swimming | Rinse off if possible; dry thoroughly; put on clean clothes | Prevents skin irritation and keeps you warm |
| Cooking/Eating | Wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer before and after meals | Avoids spreading germs and foodborne illnesses |
| Playing Outdoors | Check for ticks or bug bites; clean hands and exposed skin | Catches bites early, reduces risk of infection |
Quick Tips for Parents and Kids
- Packing extra sets of clothes makes it easier to change when needed.
- Keep travel-sized soap, wipes, and hand sanitizer in your day pack.
- Make “freshening up” part of your routine—like before meals or after coming back to camp.
- Remind kids that staying clean is part of having fun outdoors!
Encouraging regular cleaning routines between activities not only keeps everyone feeling good but also teaches kids important habits they’ll use on every adventure. With just a little effort, your family can enjoy a happy, healthy camping trip!
