When you’re out on the trail, nature calls at the most unexpected moments. While embracing the wilderness is part of the adventure, leaving behind a trace is not. That’s where biodegradable toilet paper for hiking comes in. Unlike regular toilet paper, these specialized options are designed to break down quickly and safely in the environment, minimizing your impact. We’ve tested and reviewed some of the best options to help you make an informed choice for your next outdoor excursion.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Biodegradable Toilet Paper For Hiking Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
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1. Packable Camp Toilet Tissue
The Packable Camp Toilet Tissue is designed for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and eco-friendly solution. This product comes in a convenient 12-pack of individually wrapped, travel-sized rolls, making it easy to pack and store. Its portable, coreless design is a smart feature that eliminates waste and makes the entire roll usable.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and portable coreless design
- ✓ 12 individually wrapped travel-sized rolls
- ✓ Soft, 4-layer construction for comfort
- ✓ Biodegradable and safe for outdoor use
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Packable Camp Toilet Tissue for its excellent portability and thoughtful design. The individual wrapping ensures cleanliness and freshness, while the coreless feature maximizes usability. It’s a practical choice for any hiker looking to pack light without compromising on essential comfort.
Best For
This toilet paper is best for backpackers, campers, and anyone who needs a compact and hygienic solution for their outdoor hygiene needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely portable and space-saving.
- Hygienically wrapped for trail use.
- Soft and comfortable to use.
- Environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
Cons:
- May be more expensive per sheet than bulk options.
- Not as thick as some home toilet papers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I ordered this in preparation for an upcoming two week cruise. On previous stops in foreign ports I have experienced ending up in a ladies’ room stall with no toilet paper….very frustrating! This emergency toilet tissue fits perfectly in my purse (nice and small and takes up little space) and I”
– Verified Customer
Customer Review: “I lead groups of kids and adults to pretty remote areas where facilities are not always supplied. My usual source for purchase no longer was available, so finding a place I could purchase 48 rolls was great. I always distribute small travel bags with little “necessities” so these work well because o”
– Verified Customer
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Compare Hotel Prices2. Septic Safe Toilet Paper
The Septic Safe Toilet Paper is a fantastic option for RVs, campers, and marine use, but it also excels for hiking. Its quick-dissolving nature means it breaks down rapidly, making it ideal for Leave No Trace principles. The 4-ply thickness provides surprising softness and durability for an outdoor product.
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Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Quick-dissolving and septic-safe
- ✓ 4-ply thickness for comfort and strength
- ✓ Suitable for RVs, campers, and marine environments
- ✓ Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
Why We Recommend It
We chose this as an Editor’s Choice because it offers a balance of performance and environmental consciousness. Its ability to dissolve quickly is crucial for sensitive outdoor environments, and the quality of the paper itself is a pleasant surprise, offering a more comfortable experience than many other travel options.
Best For
Ideal for campers, RVers, boaters, and hikers who prioritize rapid breakdown and minimal environmental impact.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Dissolves very quickly, reducing plumbing issues.
- Surprisingly soft and durable for its purpose.
- Generous quantity in each pack.
- Eco-friendly and septic-safe.
Cons:
- Rolls can be a bit bulky for ultralight backpacking.
- Can be pricier than standard toilet paper.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I had my granddaughter this summer and she was using a roll of toilet paper within 2 days, after my toiled clogged I decided to try this product. I told her how many to use. This is great for controlling the amount of toilet paper kids use.”
– Verified Customer
Customer Review: “I love that this is precut for my toddler to train while in the potty.It is soft but durable at the same time. I would say it’s a bit expensive for its purpose. I would probably just get this set once and look else where once all used up. It was worth the try.”
– Verified Customer
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Check Available Rooms3. Nature’s Calling Toilet Paper
Nature’s Calling Toilet Paper is designed with the eco-conscious hiker in mind. This 3-pack comes with compact, travel-sized rolls and a convenient dispenser case. Its biodegradable nature makes it suitable for use in the backcountry, and the dispenser helps keep it clean and dry, which is a huge plus for packing your hiking backpack.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact and coreless continuous rolls
- ✓ Includes a recyclable dispenser case
- ✓ Biodegradable and septic-safe
- ✓ Fits easily into purses and bags
Why We Recommend It
We recommend Nature’s Calling for its convenience and eco-friendly design. The inclusion of a dispenser is a thoughtful touch that enhances its practicality for outdoor use, ensuring you have clean toilet paper readily available without it getting crushed or dirty in your pack.
Best For
Perfect for day hikers, car campers, and travelers who appreciate a portable and protected toilet paper solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Dispenser keeps paper clean and protected.
- Compact size for easy packing.
- Biodegradable and good for the environment.
- Affordable option.
Cons:
- The paper itself is quite thin.
- Dispenser can be a bit flimsy.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I have found these handy for travel as you don’t know what condition you might encounter.”
– Verified Customer
Customer Review: “I have found these handy for travel as you don’t know what condition you might encounter.Read more”
– Verified Customer
4. Coin Tissues
Coin Tissues offer a unique, compressed solution that expands with water. This 50-pack comes with carrying cases, making them incredibly portable for any adventure, from a short hike to a multi-day trek. They are soft, odor-free, and designed to be flushable and septic-safe, ensuring a responsible disposal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compressed and expandable with water
- ✓ Includes multiple waterproof carrying cases
- ✓ Soft, odor-free, and durable fabric
- ✓ Flushable and biodegradable
Why We Recommend It
These coin tissues are a standout for their innovative design and versatility. The ability to pack them small and expand them as needed is perfect for hikers who need to conserve space. Plus, the included carrying cases make them easy to distribute among your gear, much like you might do with packing a hiking backpack for women.
Best For
Excellent for hikers, campers, travelers, and emergency preparedness kits due to their compact nature and expandability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- Expand to a usable size with water.
- Comes with convenient carrying cases.
- Soft and effective.
Cons:
- Requires a small amount of water to expand.
- Can be slightly more expensive per use compared to traditional rolls.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These are amazing! I wet one down to try it and they’re exactly what I was hoping they’d be. They’re compact for travel and everyday carry, there’s no smell whatsoever, they are gentle but effective for moderate scrubbing, I price is right, and they’re so easy to use. Flushable, septic safe, biod”
– Verified Customer
Customer Review: “I keep a few of these in the car and a few at work. Great for camping, office and emergency. Durable, easy to use just a few drops of water or any liquid will cause it to decompress and expand back to full size. It is large enough to clean yourself, a child or small accidental spills. It came with “
– Verified Customer
5. Coghlan’s Toilet Tissue
Coghlan’s Toilet Tissue is a straightforward, no-frills option for hikers. This 4-pack provides compact rolls that are easy to stash in a backpack or glove compartment. It’s designed to be biodegradable, making it a responsible choice for outdoor use. While simple, it gets the job done without adding unnecessary bulk.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact 4-pack of rolls
- ✓ Biodegradable for outdoor environments
- ✓ Easy to pack and store
- ✓ Affordable and functional
Why We Recommend It
Coghlan’s is a practical choice for hikers who prioritize simplicity and basic functionality. It’s an affordable way to ensure you have a biodegradable option available when nature calls on the trail, and its compact size makes it easy to carry, similar to how one might pack hiking poles for reducing fatigue.
Best For
Best for casual hikers, campers, and travelers looking for a basic, biodegradable toilet paper solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very compact and lightweight.
- Biodegradable and environmentally sound.
- Budget-friendly.
- Reliable for basic needs.
Cons:
- The paper is quite thin.
- No special features like dispensers or special wrapping.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I got this pack of 4 for an overseas trip and was very thankful that I brought them as there were several times when there was no tp, or it was stingily rationed out by a bathroom attendant. No longer a problem as these rolls are compact so it’s easy to stash one in a purse. The paper is thin (hence”
– Verified Customer
Customer Review: “i bought this to take on a long hike in a national park. I didn’t need it there but I stashed some in my purse and I used it when traveling & there was no toilet paper in the bathroom. This tissue comes in 4 small rolls, is biodegradable & can easily keep a small amount in my purse. While the rolls “
– Verified Customer
Complete Buying Guide for Best Biodegradable Toilet Paper For Hiking
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best biodegradable toilet paper for hiking, we look for several key factors. First and foremost is its biodegradability – how quickly and completely does it break down in the environment? We also consider portability and weight, as hikers need to minimize their pack load. Durability and softness are important for comfort, even in the backcountry. Finally, we assess packaging – is it hygienic, compact, and easy to use on the go? Brands that use recycled materials or have eco-friendly manufacturing processes also score points.
Budget Planning
The cost of biodegradable toilet paper for hiking can vary. While some specialized options might seem pricier per roll than standard household toilet paper, their compact nature and environmental benefits often justify the cost. Consider the quantity you need for your trip and the overall value. For budget-conscious hikers, simpler options like Coghlan’s can be a great choice, while those looking for enhanced features like dispensers or extra softness might opt for slightly more premium products.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right biodegradable toilet paper for hiking is a small detail that makes a big difference for both your comfort and the environment. By choosing products that break down easily and are packaged for portability, you contribute to preserving the natural beauty of the places you explore. Remember to always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out what you pack in, especially if local regulations require it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes toilet paper “biodegradable” for hiking?
A: Biodegradable toilet paper is designed to break down naturally and quickly into basic organic compounds when exposed to the elements, leaving minimal trace. This is crucial for outdoor use to avoid polluting natural environments.
Q: Can I use regular toilet paper on a hike?
A: It is generally discouraged to use regular toilet paper on hikes, especially in sensitive ecosystems. It breaks down much slower and can remain visible for extended periods, impacting the environment and wildlife.
Q: How much toilet paper should I pack for a hiking trip?
A: The amount depends on the length of your trip, the number of people, and the availability of facilities. A good rule of thumb is to pack a few rolls or a compact packet per person for every 2-3 days of hiking, adjusting based on your personal needs.
Q: How should I dispose of used biodegradable toilet paper when hiking?
A: While biodegradable, it’s best practice to pack out used toilet paper in a sealed bag to minimize impact, especially in areas with high foot traffic or fragile ecosystems. Burying it is an option in some areas, but always check local regulations and Leave No Trace guidelines.
Q: Are there alternatives to toilet paper for hiking?
A: Yes, some hikers opt for reusable camping toilet cloths or use a trowel to dig catholes for waste disposal in accordance with Leave No Trace principles. However, for personal hygiene, biodegradable toilet paper remains a popular and convenient choice.
Choosing the right biodegradable toilet paper for hiking is an important step for any outdoor enthusiast aiming to minimize their environmental footprint. From compact, individually wrapped options to those with convenient dispensers, there’s a solution for every hiker’s needs. Ensure you’re always prepared by packing these essential, eco-friendly supplies on your next adventure. Happy trails!