">
Five Ways to Poop in the Woods: An Illustration
It’s one of the most common questions for first-time backpackers and campers. The uncertainty can be enough to stop those wanting to get into the outdoors from partaking. Of course we refer to: how to shit in the woods.
Whether you’re a first-timer or someone who’s a backcountry loaf-pinching ninja, knowing the various positions in which someone does their business is very important entertaining. That’s why when we came across the below illustration by Kitaro Waga (@Wagabond.tales on Instagram), we couldn’t not share.
Regardless of which position you choose, it’s imperative to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Ensure your catholes are six to eight inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails, and that toilet paper and hygiene products are packed out. Here’s our go-to cathole digging trowel.
Five Ways to Poop in the Woods
The Squat: This position is as old as time. Be sure to practice your wall sits at home to ensure you can hold this position for the duration of your defecation.
The Pole-Dancer: For when your legs are tired and you’ve found the ideal branch for an assisted squat. Be careful that the branch can support your weight or else you run the very real risk of falling backward into your business.
The Asian-Squat: A modified version of the Squat. This one requires greater flexibility, but less leg strength and increases the odds of you hitting your target.
The Break-Dancer: This one doubles as a decent upper body workout—important for hikers who want to avoid the dreaded T-Rex syndrome.
The Lazy: For those who just can’t. This is a great strategy for getting #2 on your shoes.
Here’s a wonderful illustration by the talented Kerstin A. La Cross about how to properly dispose of your waste in the woods. Check out their site and Instagram to get more backcountry illustrations.
How to Poop in the Woods: An Illustrated Guide
Is your go-to #2 position not covered in the illustration above? Let us know your preferred pose in the comments below.
This website contains affiliate links, which means The Trek may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the articles or advertisements. The buyer pays the same price as they would otherwise, and your purchase helps to support The Trek's ongoing goal to serve you quality backpacking advice and information. Thanks for your support!
To learn more, please visit the About This Site page.
Comments 24
Thank you for the practical & humorous pooping guide
I’d like to add the buddy- facing each other and holding hands for support. And the best buddy, back to back.
Experienced back-to-back poopers can use only one cathole!
I’m married and my wife would never consider this an option, she be my best buddy and all
Love it all except the man-bun.
This!!
Seven years in Japan and one in China taught me that the Asian Squat illustration is incorrect. The legs need to be wider apart, requiring that the shorts drop no lower than the knees.
Keep your bottom garments at your knees, or you will end up recycling some of your byproducts in a less than ideal way. Or just wear a kilt/skirt–very handy.
You missed the “downed tree”. Best when tree is slightly elevated from the ground. Hang off he back side.
How about just doing the basic squat with a tree for a back rest?
I prefer the geometry of a hillside deposit. With my feet on the downslope side there is less pressure on my knees and ankles. Accuracy is enhanced because the uphill cathole is closer to the source of the deposit.
Best way is sit 0n a I0g, but in fr0nt 0f it
Being in my 70s, I need a tree in front to get up after the squat, also called a ‘straining post’
YEET!
Just poop on the ground, then put it in an inconspicuous place on a trail, such as behind a tree root or something, especially on a trail you and your traveling companions will hike. Stay away from the spot and watch as your companion squelches into the gruesome mess! This will ensure hilarity all around.
2 more ways not shown….one is the one I used for 4 months ….not shown
That’s some horrible constipation!
ha! 🙂
I’m feeling that this article is very Badger inspired, written, or coerced. But loved the visual assistance!
It’s useful, but I’m afraid to ask why they made this ?
This is hilarious! great cartooning! for poop!
I find it is best to take your pants and undies completely off so you don’t fall down. If you ever tried to walk with your pants at your ankles, you know what I mean.