How to Stay Clean While Backpacking and Camping Without a Shower

Let’s be honest—backpacking and camping are amazing, but staying clean without a shower? That’s a challenge. After a few days on the trail, things can get... ripe. And while embracing a little dirt is part of the outdoor experience, that doesn’t mean you have to give up on basic hygiene. Whether you’re thru-hiking a long trail or just out for a weekend in the backcountry, here are my go-to ways to stay clean and comfortable when showers aren’t an option.

These tips are all about keeping things simple, lightweight, and practical—because none of us want to lug around a bunch of extra stuff when every ounce counts.

1. Use Body Wipes (Like These Awesome PACT Wipes)

If we could only take one hygiene item on a backpacking trip, it would be a good body wipe. They’re quick, easy, and surprisingly effective at cutting through trail grime, sweat, and even that sticky sunscreen layer.

Our personal favorite right now? PACT Outdoors Body Wipes.

These things are tiny when packed—about the size of a quarter—and expand into a large, (12"x12") thick wipe (that's actually more like a towel) when you add water. We love that they’re made from compostable and biodegradable material and free of harsh chemicals, so they’re gentle on your skin and the environment. They’re perfect for a quick “backcountry bath” before crawling into your sleeping bag or hitting the trail in the morning.

Pro tip: Warm up a little water on your stove before expanding the wipe—it feels luxurious out in the wild.

2. Give Yourself a “Bucket Bath”

If you’re staying at a base camp for a few days or just feeling extra grimy, a bucket bath (or water bottle bath) can do wonders. All you need is:

• A small camp towel or washcloth
• A bottle of water (bonus if it’s warm)
• A tiny bit of biodegradable soap (Dr. Bronner’s or Campsuds work great)

Pour a little water on the towel, add a drop of soap, and scrub yourself down—starting with your face and working your way south. Then rinse with clean water, if you can. Always do this at least 200 feet away from any water source to protect rivers and lakes.

This method takes a little more effort, but it feels amazing when you’ve been sweating and hiking all day.

3. Freshen Up the Funky Zones

Let’s be real: some parts of your body need more attention than others when you're on the trail. Focus on:

• Armpits
• Groin area
• Feet

Keeping these areas clean helps prevent odor, chafing, and infections like athlete’s foot or jock itch. A quick wipe-down with a body wipe or damp bandana can go a long way. For feet, we also like to use a little foot powder at night to keep things dry.

4. Bring a Pack Towel (and Use It Often)

A quick-drying microfiber towel is a must-have. Whether you’re drying off after a dip in a lake, wiping sweat off your face, or using it to wash up, it’s super versatile and doesn’t take up much space in your pack.

We hang ours on the outside of our backpack to dry during the day, and it’s always ready when we need it.

5. Change Your Clothes (At Least Your Underwear and Socks)

You don’t need a full wardrobe out there, but rotating your base layers—especially underwear and socks—makes a big difference. We usually bring two of each and rotate them daily. At night, hang the worn ones up to air out or rinse them if water is available.

Clean(ish) clothes = happier skin and fewer funky smells.

Bonus tip: Pack your sleeping clothes separately and only wear them inside your tent. Nothing beats slipping into dry, clean clothes at the end of a long day.

6. Jump in a Lake or River (When You Can)

Nothing beats a natural bath in a cold alpine lake or stream. Even just rinsing off your arms, legs, and face can feel like heaven. Just remember:

• Don’t use soap in or near the water (even biodegradable stuff can harm aquatic life)
• Be cautious of strong currents
• Let yourself air-dry in the sun—it feels so good!

This is one of our favorite parts of backpacking—there’s something so refreshing and grounding about getting clean in the wild.

7. Keep Your Hands and Face Clean

You touch your face constantly, and your hands are basically your eating utensils in the backcountry. Keeping both clean is key to avoiding breakouts and staying healthy.

• Use a small dab of soap and water
• Or just clean with a PACT Wipe
• Always wash hands before eating or after using the bathroom

Keep hand sanitizer easily accessible in your hip belt pouch too—it's super handy when water’s not available.

8. Plan For Pee And Possibly Your Period 

This one’s for the ladies: backcountry hygiene during your period is absolutely manageable with a little prep. Some tips:

• Bring extra wipes or use a small water bottle to rinse
• Pack out used items in a double-sealed zip bag
• Consider a menstrual cup to reduce waste (just make sure you’re comfortable using it before the trip)

Also—if you’ve never tried a pee funnel (like a Shewee or Freshette), they can make life easier on longer treks or in tricky terrain. Practice at home first!

9. Keep Your Gear Clean Too

Staying clean isn’t just about your body. Your gear—especially sleeping bags, clothes, and pads—can hold onto odors and grime. A few ways to keep things fresh:

• Air out your sleeping bag daily
• Let boots and socks dry out in the sun
• Store dirty clothes in a separate bag
• Use a sleeping bag liner (easy to wash later)

Keeping your gear fresh helps your whole camp feel less like a locker room.

10. Accept That You’ll Get a Little Dirty (And That’s Okay)

At the end of the day, getting dirty is part of the adventure. You’re not going to smell like roses. You probably won’t feel squeaky clean. And that’s all part of the magic of spending time outside.

Instead of fighting it, do what you can to stay comfortable and healthy—then let the rest go. You’ll appreciate your next shower even more.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a full bathroom setup to stay clean while camping or backpacking. With a few smart habits and the right tools—like Pact Outdoor Body Wipes—you can keep the stink at bay, avoid skin issues, and feel way more refreshed in the backcountry.

Whether you're out for one night or ten, staying on top of hygiene makes the whole trip more enjoyable—not just for you, but for everyone else sharing you