Have you ever reached for toilet paper while camping, only to find a damp, unusable mess? It’s a common and unpleasant experience for outdoor adventurers. But fear not! There’s a simple, foolproof method to ensure you always have dry toilet paper on your travels, especially when camping, canoeing, or kayaking. This guide will show you the ultimate solution using something you likely already have: a ziplock bag, transforming how you handle Travel Toilet Paper forever.
The Universal Problem: Wet Toilet Paper on the Trail
Imagine this: you’re deep in the wilderness, miles from civilization, and nature calls. You reach into your backpack, confident in your preparedness, only to pull out a sodden clump of toilet paper. Rain, splashes from the river, or even just humidity can quickly turn your essential travel toilet paper into a useless, heavy blob. This isn’t just inconvenient; it’s unhygienic and can be a real damper on your outdoor experience. Nobody wants to deal with the discomfort and frustration of wet toilet paper when they are trying to enjoy nature.
The Ziplock Solution: Simplicity at its Best for Travel Toilet Paper
The solution to this soggy dilemma is incredibly simple and effective: the humble ziplock bag. Yes, that’s it! By simply placing your roll of toilet paper in a ziplock bag, you create an instant, waterproof barrier that will protect it from moisture, no matter the conditions.
Here’s why this method is so brilliant for keeping your travel toilet paper dry:
- Waterproof Protection: Ziplock bags are designed to be airtight and waterproof, keeping out rain, splashes, and humidity.
- Lightweight and Compact: Ziplock bags add negligible weight and take up minimal space in your pack.
- Durable and Reusable: A good quality ziplock bag can withstand being jostled around in your backpack and can be reused for multiple trips.
- Accessible: You can easily access your toilet paper when you need it, and reseal the bag to keep it protected.
- Cost-Effective: Ziplock bags are inexpensive and readily available.
This photo from a 1995 canoe trip perfectly illustrates how effective a ziplock bag is for keeping travel toilet paper dry, even in challenging conditions.
How to Implement the Ziplock Travel Toilet Paper Method:
- Choose the Right Bag: Select a ziplock bag that is appropriately sized for your roll of toilet paper. A quart-sized bag usually works well for a standard roll. For longer trips or multiple people, consider a gallon-sized bag or multiple bags.
- Insert the Toilet Paper: Place your roll of toilet paper inside the ziplock bag.
- Seal Tightly: Ensure the ziplock bag is completely sealed to prevent any water from entering.
- Pack Smart: Store the ziplock bag containing your travel toilet paper in an easily accessible pocket of your backpack so you can grab it quickly when needed.
A Story from the River: Real-World Proof of Travel Toilet Paper Protection
Back in 1995, on a memorable canoe trip down the Yellowknife River in the Yukon Territory, I experienced firsthand just how crucial dry toilet paper could be. Our canoe capsized in a rapid, sending gear scattering and us scrambling to recover everything. Amidst the chaos of rescuing our canoe and belongings, one of my biggest reliefs was discovering that my ziplock bag of toilet paper had survived completely dry. While we faced the setback of a damaged canoe and lost gear, at least we had dry travel toilet paper! This seemingly small victory was a significant comfort in a challenging situation, highlighting the importance of even simple preparations for outdoor adventures.
Beyond Ziplocks: Considering Other Travel Toilet Paper Options
While the ziplock bag method is incredibly effective and highly recommended for most situations, you might also consider other travel toilet paper options depending on your specific needs:
- Waterproof Toilet Paper: Some brands offer specifically designed waterproof toilet paper. These are often individually wrapped or come in waterproof packaging. While convenient, they can be more expensive and may not be as environmentally friendly as using regular toilet paper and a reusable ziplock bag.
- Compact Toilet Paper Rolls: Travel-sized toilet paper rolls are smaller and lighter than standard rolls, making them ideal for backpacking and situations where space is limited. These can also be easily stored in ziplock bags for added protection.
- Toilet Paper Alternatives: For ultra-light backpackers or those seeking more sustainable options, alternatives like leaves (when appropriate and safe), snow (in winter conditions), or specialized “backcountry bidets” might be considered, though these require more knowledge and practice.
Conclusion: Dry and Prepared with Travel Toilet Paper
Don’t let soggy toilet paper ruin your next outdoor adventure. By embracing the simple yet effective ziplock bag method, you can ensure you always have dry and usable travel toilet paper, no matter where your explorations take you. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in comfort and hygiene on the trail. So, before you pack for your next camping, hiking, or paddling trip, remember the ziplock bag and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your travel toilet paper is protected and ready when you need it.
