One of the cardinal rules of backpacking is to leave no trace of your visit. Leaving behind your garbage may alter the ecosystem of the area, could harm plants and animals and creates an unattractive trail for future backpackers. Keep this in mind when preparing for a backpacking trip by disposing of as much trash as possible before you leave. For example, discard food wrappers and pack the food in zip-top bags, which you can later use for other types of trash. Always scout your area before moving on to ensure that you've removed any bits of trash.
Items you will need
- Gallon-size plastic zip-top bags
Scrape all food scraps into a zip-top bag. Never bury food garbage, which might attract animals and make them sick. If food is dropped on the ground, scrape it up right away so it isn't forgotten. If you prefer paper plates and plastic utensils, roll leftover food in the plate, top with the fork or spoon and stuff the entire bundle into the bag.
Take a zip-top bag when you hike out to urinate or empty your bowels. Toilet paper does eventually biodegrade, but the smell of urine or feces might attract animals and if dug up, it will litter the trail. Roll your toilet paper and stow it in a designated bag.
Place all food wrappers in a zip-top bag each time you prepare a snack or meal. Any time you open a granola bar, can of vegetables or empty a water bottle, put it in a bag immediately. This ensures that garbage doesn't blow around or get left behind by mistake.
Place cigarette butts into a zip-top back. Many people simply toss them on the ground when finished, but animals might eat them, making them sick. Used cigarettes also pose a risk of forest fires.
Burn paper and cardboard. These are the only items to put in your campfire. Plastic, foil and food scraps may not burn completely. If the area where you are backpacking is under fire restrictions, pack paper and cardboard into zip-top bags and carry them out with you.
Discard your garbage in marked cans along your route. Trash cans aren't always available, but if you pass one, get rid of your garbage, which lightens your load and allows maintenance to dispose of trash bags regularly.