Waste Management on a Sea Kayaking Expedition

It might not be the most glamorous topic, but when you're out on a multi-day sea kayaking expedition, knowing how to go to the toilet responsibly is essential. Not only for hygiene and comfort but also to protect the beautiful coastal environments we're travelling through.

In this post, we'll go over the key points from a lesson in our Expedition Skills Course on how to manage human waste properly while paddling in the wild.

Why It Matters

Going to the toilet in the outdoors without proper care can lead to serious environmental harm. Human waste can spread bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, and if left exposed, it can pollute water sources and ruin the experience for others. No one wants to pitch their tent next to someone else's mess.

Toilet paper and sanitary products left behind are not only unsightly, but they also take a long time to break down, if they do at all.

Our goal is to minimise our impact and leave no trace.

Three Options for Dealing with Number Twos

1. Use Toilets Along Your Route

The best-case scenario? Plan your trip so that you can use public toilets along the way. It's not always possible, but if you can build stops into your route where facilities are available, it's the easiest and most eco-friendly option.

2. Dig a Hole (Cat Hole Method)

If you do need to go in the wild, burying your waste properly is crucial. Here's how:

• Move inland – away from the beach and well above the high tide mark.
• Find soil, not rock or sand. Digging into the soil allows natural bacteria and insects to break waste down.
• Use a trowel – Dig a hole about 15–20cm (6–8 inches) deep.
• Do your business, then cover it back over completely.

This method works best in remote, undeveloped areas where burying waste is permitted.

3. Carry It Out

In some areas, especially national parks or popular wild camping spots—burying isn't allowed. You'll need to bag and carry it out in these cases. Yes, it might sound off-putting, but there are great products designed to make this clean, hygienic and discreet.

Check regulations before you go and pack the right supplies if you're heading somewhere sensitive.

Dealing with Toilet Paper & Sanitary Products

Toilet paper shouldn't be left behind. You have two options:

• Burn it – If conditions are safe and dry, burn your used toilet paper. Always be cautious of fire risk.
• Pack it out – If burning isn't possible, pack it away in a sealable bag.

🚫 Never bury wet wipes, sanitary products, or anything plastic-based. These must be carried out in a sealed bag, just like you would with other rubbish.

What to Pack in Your Toilet Kit

Here's a quick checklist for your toilet bag:

• Small dry bag or zip-lock bag
• Toilet paper or biodegradable tissues
• Lighter (for burning paper)
• Hand sanitiser
• Trowel (with depth markings)
• Waste bags (if carrying out)

Leave No Trace

By following these simple steps, we can keep the wild places we explore clean, beautiful, and safe for us and the next paddlers who come along.

🛶 Want more expedition tips? Check out our Expedition Skills Course to learn everything you need to travel smart, stay safe, and make the most of your adventures on the water.