OVER Easter a small group of us headed north to Moreton National Park, inland from Ulladulla to hike over five days. The route we took is graded as "hard" and because of the rough terrain and bush bashing, the boulder scrambling and the rope climbing, it was important to ensure my pack was light enough so I wouldn't conk out after a couple of days.
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Extended hikes like these are synonymous with efficiency and minimalisation. It usually means ultra-light weight gear (tent/sleeping bag); a small light-weight stove and dehydrated meals - all designed to keep pack weight to an absolute minimum. The same applies to personal hygiene for such treks and "clean" becomes a relative term in the bigger picture.
The most unpleasant part of each day was in the pre-dawn light when I unzipped my sleeping bag and began to dress. It meant reaching for a rather skanky, smelly hike shirt that was pulled on with much reluctance. (At the end of each day I did change into a clean, dry tee shirt, dry socks and long thermals).
... carry a disposable dishcloth like a Chux and a small container of essential oil in a zip lock bag.
- Ian Trevaskis
As we relaxed by the river on our last day I asked the others what hygiene essentials they reckoned should be carried on these extended hikes when there's no access to a shower at the end of the day. We came up with the following list, (many of these items would also suit a day hike):
- alcohol-based gel hand sanitiser
- toothbrush and toothpaste
- cotton bandana or washcloth
- small pack of baby wipes
- quick-dry microfibre towel
- roll of toilet paper in its own zip-lock bag, plus another zip-lock bag to carry out used paper
- feminine hygiene products, with a zip-lock bag to carry out any waste
- spare pair of jocks/briefs
We all agreed luxuries such as soap, deodorant, shampoo, razors, combs, mirrors and any non-biodegradable products are best left at home.
To freshen up at the end of a long day on the track you can boil up a pot of water to have a refreshing body wash. Another option is to carry a disposable dishcloth like a Chux and a small container of essential oil in a zip lock bag. In camp, pour some water into the bag, add a few drops of essential oil and clean yourself down. If, like us, you happen to camp by a creek or river just strip down to the bare essentials (or nothing) and hit the water for a cold bath.
