The Art of Peeing in the Woods—Women Only!

The Best Locations, Positioning Choices, and Devices to Help

I’ve often been asked how I pee so well in the woods! Well… I grew up in Texas, and I found that most places to pee outside were dry and cracked! When you have to pee on dry, flat, dusty, or sandy ground, you learn how to do it without spackling yourself with pee AND grit! I was called “pressure pisser” because I could pee quickly and be done in seconds! 

Now when I’m on a beautiful hike with more forgiving and absorbent ground, I still use the same techniques. I’m a squatter! It’s absolutely a luxury for me to have a tree to assist with leverage or bracing!

 Pull your pants/shorts and undies all up and out to where you can see your pee stream! Think about Kegel exercises and contract your groin area while tilting your pelvis in front of you! 

Practice this on your toilet at home, watching the stream you make and how it changes with minimal movement, and force your stream out. Practice makes perfect! Get addicted to making your experience peeing better and better!

The Best Locations to Choose

Choosing the right location is crucial for privacy, safety, and hygiene. Here are some tips for finding the best spots:

Privacy

- Look for natural barriers: Trees, bushes, and rocks can provide excellent cover. Sometimes it’s simply a car door!

- Consider distance: Move away from trails, campsites, and water sources to ensure privacy and environmental protection.

Safety

- Check for wildlife and don’t disturb them. Remember, you are peeing in their home area!

- Stay visible: Ensure someone knows your location or stay within earshot of your group for safety.

Hygiene/Clothing

- Pee on soft ground, leaves, or pine needles to help prevent spattering! 

- Avoid sensitive vegetation where signs are posted

- Microfiber cloth, bandanna (takes longer to dry), or my favorites, Circe Cloths and Kula Cloths! (These are reusable! Once you use one, attach it to your backpack and allow the sunshine to disinfect and dry it! They are awesome! And it keeps people out of your personal space! 

- Invest in a pair of wool underwear! I use Smartwool on all hikes. What a difference it makes to have a natural, absorbent, and odor-resistant pair of underwear!! Whether it’s sweat or residual urine, it will wick away and keep you dry!!

- Leave no trace: Always pack out used toilet paper or use natural alternatives like leaves or smooth stones. 

Positioning Choices

Finding the right position can make a significant difference in comfort and cleanliness. Here are some common techniques:

The Squat

- Classic Squat: Squat down with feet hip-width apart and heels on the ground. This position provides good balance and control.

- Assisted Squat: Hold onto a tree or rock for support, which can help with balance and reduce leg strain.

The Lean

- Against a Tree or Rock: Lean your back against one of these for support while keeping your legs bent. This position offers stability and is easier on the knees.

The Sit

- Log or Rock Sit: Sit on the edge of a log or rock with your butt hanging off the side. This position mimics a toilet seat and can be more comfortable for some.

*I do not usually do this as the thought of a snake or other critter being below somehow keeps me from relaxing enough to allow myself to let go!

Devices to Help

When we are in the wilderness day hiking or on a long backpacking trek, we all wish we had a “spout” like the guys. They have it so easy! Tip: Get men’s smartwool underwear! Why? Because you can use some urination devices easier with that open fly in the front! Here are just a few good devices out there… 

Female Urination Devices (FUDs)

FUDs are designed to allow women to pee standing up. They are typically made of silicone or plastic and are easy to clean and reusable.

- GoGirl: A popular silicone device that is compact and simple to use.

- Shewee: A lightweight, portable option made from durable plastic.

- Pibella: A discreet device that fits comfortably against the body.

*You still may need to use that vital pelvic thrust to help out with the delivery!

Utilizing helpful devices and clothes can make the outdoors much more enjoyable because staying dry is essential! With practice and preparation, women can confidently and comfortably answer nature’s call wherever they are.