For the most part, women have been part of life in the wild for a long while now. The difference today is not capability, it’s convenience. Modern products and smart practices have softened the blow of exposure to the elements, making off-grid living and extended camping far more manageable without sacrificing health, dignity, or sanity. This is not about “roughing it.” It’s about staying clean enough to stay healthy, comfortable, and functional while respecting the land.
General Hygiene in the Wild
Hand hygiene is non-negotiable. Use hand sanitizer before and after bathroom breaks, eating, and food prep. When water is available, wash hands with biodegradable soap at least 200 feet from any water source. Think of streams and lakes as neighbors, not sinks.
For daily body care, unscented, hypoallergenic wipes are gold. A quick pass over the face, armpits, and groin does more than you’d think. Spot cleaning works wonders. A small water bottle and a pack towel can rinse sweat-prone areas without turning your campsite into a bathhouse.
Hair care can stay simple. Dry shampoo or baby powder absorbs oil, and a quick face wash with water or unscented soap keeps you feeling human. A quick-dry towel earns its place fast.
Clothing choices matter more than people admit. Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, wool, and silk breathe well. If you go synthetic, make sure it’s moisture-wicking. Change underwear and socks daily. This alone prevents half the problems people blame on “camping life.”
Avoid scented products whenever possible. Deodorant, perfume, and heavy fragrances attract insects and disrupt wildlife. Yes, this is tragic for scent lovers. Truly devastating. But!... There is a compromise. . .
Essential Oils as Natural Deodorant
Essential oils can be used in natural deodorants for their antibacterial, antifungal, and pleasant scents, as long as they are properly diluted and patch-tested. Applying them straight to skin is a fast track to regret.
Popular essential oils for deodorant include tea tree oil for its strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, lavender for its soothing and clean scent, lemongrass for its citrusy antibacterial kick, bergamot as a natural deodorizer with antifungal benefits, peppermint for cooling antimicrobial action, and geranium for a floral scent with solid antimicrobial properties. Be cautious with photosensitive oils like bergamot or lemon, especially in sun-exposed areas. Underarms are usually safe, but awareness beats learning the hard way.
Safe use matters. Dilution is key. Mix essential oils with a carrier such as coconut, jojoba, almond oil, or witch hazel at a 1 to 2 percent dilution, roughly 10 to 20 drops per ounce of base. Always patch test on your inner arm and wait 24 hours before regular use.
Simple formulas work well. A spray deodorant can be made by mixing essential oils with witch hazel and distilled water in a spray bottle. A solid version can be made by whisking essential oils into melted shea butter, coconut oil, and arrowroot powder, then letting it solidify.
A few realities to accept. Essential oils are not antiperspirants. You will still sweat. Quality oils matter. Cheap synthetics defeat the purpose. And yes, there may be a detox period when switching from conventional deodorants. Your body will complain briefly. Then it calms down. Mostly.
Feminine Hygiene and Menstruation
Good habits matter even more off-grid. Always wipe front to back to reduce the risk of UTIs and yeast infections. Stay hydrated and urinate regularly. Menstrual cups and reusable pads are excellent low-waste options. If you use disposables, pack out every single one in a sealed waste bag. No exceptions. Menstrual cups can be cleaned with a boiled water soak or wipes on the trail. Manufacturers (and Boujee Burke) advise against using hand sanitizer on cups, so check your brand. Better yet, keep sanitizer away from the crotch area altogether.
Toileting and Waste Management
Choose urination spots away from camp and at least 200 feet from water sources. Your future self will thank you. Dig catholes 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, trails, and camp. Bury solid waste and toilet paper when appropriate, but pack out wipes and all feminine hygiene products. Trash is still trash, even if it’s biodegradable in theory.
Leave No Trace, Always; LNT.org can better clarify the importance of these principles, here.
Carry water away from streams and lakes for washing dishes or yourself. Use biodegradable soap sparingly and scatter strained water widely. The goal is to leave the area looking like you were never there, not like you hosted a spa retreat.
Bottom line: staying clean off-grid isn’t about luxury. It’s about smart routines, a little preparation, and respecting both your body and the land. You can live wild, stay hygienic, and still smell reasonably pleasant. Civilization optional. Common sense required.
