How to Pee Outside- A Woman's Guide to Urinating When Camping, Hiking, or Even When You're Stuck in Traffic

Brooke Amidei
Aug 21
4 min read

Updated: Sep 2

There are a lot of places in life that is it just harder to be a woman than a man and it is abundantly clear when you find yourself needing to urinate outside. Living in the West I find myself in this particular predicament more than I want to. After many a camp trip or hike with different adventurous ladies, we've discussed the best methods, and products, that make this annoying task, less annoying. We're sharing those ideas with you here.

The Pee Cloth

Don't run off scared just yet...here us out.

This is the only thing my most outdoorsy friend would 100% recommend. It's a washcloth looking thing that you take with you hiking or backpacking or anywhere that you don't have access to regular toilet paper or wipes. She literally called it amazing! She takes it backcountry skiing, hiking, backpacking and camping. It dries super fast and doesn't leave a smell. Of course she washes hers every chance she gets.

I found this description of how to use it on Amazon helpful: Use the black absorbent side to wipe after peeing. Waterproof colored side and the elastic hand grip keeps your hands dry & clean. Fold and snap for more privacy and hygiene. Tag to your hiking bag/ backpack for on the go drying. Elastic hand grip aid useful for better grasp and cleanliness especially for people with arthritis and hand grip weakness.

The Pee Funnel

Pee Funnels are an option but I'm told they are tricky. Sometimes you still get pee on you, but that is better than having to whip your pants down.

They mention on their product page that their products are designed for women with limited mobility, providing a convenient solution for urination and improving the quality of life. The portable design is also suitable for hospitalization, non-toilet environments and public places, to protect hygiene in emergency situations. I love that they say they are a guardian of women's health and dignity, so that life is more secure and comfortable.

It says that you hold the silicone device up to your pubic area, lean forward slightly and then let her roll!

Disposable Urinal

Another friend of mine uses these when they are sleeping in their rooftop tent because who wants to get out of a warm sleeping back, out of the tent and climb down a ladder in the middle of the night. Plus, bears.

I found these images and descriptions helpful as I was trying to figure out just how these work.

Disposable Pee Funnel

Here is a product that kind of combines the last two. It is disposable and also a funnel. Pop this puppy in your hiking backpack and be ready for pee-free shoes or legs when you gotta go outside.

This product mentions that they are also great for festivals in addition to all the outdoor or sports activities and even great to avoid dirty public bathrooms where you are trying to put down the paper cover and the gross toilet. Now just stand and go!

Au Naturel

"We did get this bit of advice from and experienced hiker/outside urinator:

Keep it simple. Get low, pull the pants to your knees (not for modesty but to avoid the splash zone). If you try to be too modest and only go part way, you’ll get pee on something for sure. Ideally, find a branch or tree to hold onto so you can lean back.

Also, face the direction people could surprise you. People will definitely get a better shot of your naked bum if you face away."

Crap Strap

One more option you might not have seen coming. My sister actually got my camping and outdoorsey loving husband a "crap strap" as a gag gift for Christmas one year, but guess what...he loved it! (This is not my husband on the photo, this is a picture from Amazon FYI.). The thought is it's great for when anyone, any size or age needs to go #2 outside.

This was on their Amazon page: Prioritizing user comfort, the Backcountry Bathroom promotes a natural and relaxed squatting position. Its ergonomic design minimizes muscle and joint strain, offering a comfortable experience even during extended outdoor adventures. By encouraging a healthier posture, it enhances overall comfort, making outdoor bathroom breaks more convenient and enjoyable.

It is lightweight, portable and might be just what you need when you need to have a solid experience when a solid calls outside.

What have you used and what did you think or what do you plan to try? Let's get out there ladies and leave our mark on this world...not in our pants or on our shoes!

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