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How To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping? Most Easiest Ways

January 29, 2021 by Canberk Koksal Leave a Comment

As necessary it is to take loo while camping, as mandatory it is to clean your waste. Firstly, because it is a moral duty to clean the toilet and keep the campsite tidy and a place that does not stink like a public toilet.

Accumulated human waste is a concern as it might cause some serious problems and also some serious diseases like giardiasis, leptospirosis. Well, diseases don’t happen that easily but it might be the initial causes. Precaution better than cure!

You don’t have many options to store the human waste, as you will be using portable toilets, as long as you don’t find an actual public toilet on the campsite of a nearby gas station.

Additionally, human waste might attract wildlife like rodents, deer, and even bears to your campsite. To avoid any of these desirable situations, you need to properly dispose of human waste.

We have a solution on how to DIY portable toilets while camping here. In this article, we will see how to dispose of human waste properly.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents
  • Guide To Know Various Camping Toilets And How They Work?
    • Bucket Toilet
    • The Compost Toilet
  • How To Empty The Toilet?
    • Steps To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping
  • FAQs
  • Conclusion

Guide To Know Various Camping Toilets And How They Work?

How To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping

The disposal method is based on the type of toilet you use for camping. Camping toilets range from intricate flushable systems to basic bags. Some come with a double-bag system that you can use to tote away your business.

There are 3 types of camping toilets: Buckets toilet, collapsible and flushable. You can find how to make your bucket toilet for amping in the DIY portable article linked above.

A collapsible toilet looks like a stand holding a toilet seat and bag, it is foldable and is easy for transport. A flushable toilet is the most elaborate type includes a small plumbing system and comes with a waste holding tank that helps to minimize odors.

Bucket Toilet

This toilet uses a bag and this means that the bag collects all of the waste and you don’t have to deep clean it wearing a hazard suit every time you go to empty it.

You can add separate toilet seats to it to increase the comfort and ease to use this toilet. This also comes with one more disadvantage of its inability to separate solid and liquid waste.

Until and unless, you use two portable ones for separate use, you will be left with a bag filled with liquid and solid waste, which might burst anytime while you carry it to the disposal place.

Disposing of this waste is easy, just tie the bag in a knot on the top and find a sewage disposal spot to discard this. Till you find a disposal place, store it in a large bucket/bin with a lid.

The Compost Toilet

These toilets come with a flush. The toilet seat is at a higher position than a bucket toilet that means you have you do not have to squat and strain your thighs. They also come with a toilet seat that means it’s comfortable. Find a model that also has a toilet paper holder so that you do not have to carry it yourself separately.

These model of toilets usually comes with a detachable tank banate the toilet seat and the flesh does the word to push to waste into the tank. That means when the lower tank is filled with the waste you can simply detach the lower tank can empty it into the sewage water for a place appropriate for human waste disposal.

Most of the time these lower tanks are equipped with substances that can compose your waist easily just like sawdust.

Here is an easy guide on how to use compost toilets while camping.

How To Empty The Toilet?

how to empty the toilet tank

You will have to make sure you get rid of it and with as minimum interaction with the waste as possible.

We all are required to be a responsible camper and find an appropriate place to dispose of that should not cause harm to the natural spots and should also respect the fellow campus in the neighborhood.

Although human waste will decompose over time, it might also contain toxins that can be harmful to nature and humans.

You cannot simply empty it onto the ground it will be hazardous for an amount of time leaving a great stench and a poor fellow camper may have the misfortune of stepping on it. How gross that would be!

Steps To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping

1.Find the disposing sight

  • Most of the campsites have a waste disposal spot or pit to clean your toilet.
  • Once you reach the campsite and set your tenting area and campfire area, take a walk around and search for the disposal spot.
  • If you save the spot searching hunt for the last minute then you will end up wandering around on the campsite carrying a heavy bag of excrement in your hand.
  • Once you found the disposal spot, Figure out a short and plane path to go to the spot from your area.
  • The last thing you want to do on a camping trip is to trip on a stone with a handful of human excretion.
  • Consider getting your portable toilet either early in the morning or just before the sunset when there is less crowd.
  • This will save you the time of standing in a queue to empty or toilet while holding a heavy tub of human waste.

2. Preparing Your Portable Toilet For Unloading

  • As we discussed earlier, the majority of portable toilets come with two tanks or they come in a bag system.
  • If you are using a portable bag system toilet then you don’t have to worry about emptying it or carrying it.
  • If you have a tank system toilet, Light the compost toilet for the toilet in RVs. There are usually two tanks one is the freshwater tank and another is a wastewater tank. The wastewater tank contains the waste that is to be disposed of.
  • If you do not want your tank to be too heavy consider emptying them from time to time.

3. Take Your Tank To The Disposal Area

  • Carefully take your tank or bag filled with human waste to the disposal spot.
  • The path to the spot is too rocky or full of stone take your time and walk slowly.
  • Get your rubber gloves or safety gloves to avoid any bacterial infection to your skin.
  • Are different kinds of disposal areas like some of them have open grids that you pour your waist onto and others come in a format that is like a trash dispenser with the lid on.
  • Remove the cap from the top of the spout of your waste holding tank and hold it carefully preparing it for emptying.
  • Some tanks come with a rotating spout. The rotating spout forces the waste further away from your hands and standing position, minimizing the risk of getting splashed.
  • If your tank does not have a spout then make sure to take a further step back as to not risk getting splashed. simply pour out the waste onto the grid or disposal tank under which the waste has subsided.

4. Washing Your Waste Tank

  • Make sure to close the waste disposal area.
  • Should be a tab or host to clean out your tank.
  • Fill the tank with clean water, put the lid back on, and shake it a little to remove any bits that have stuck to the side.
  • Mote back into the disposal area and keep repeating the process until the water starts to run clear.

5. Return The Tank

  • If you were still in the middle of a camping trip leave a little bit of freshwater inside and mixed in the disinfectant toilet chemical to it is ready to be used again.
  • If it is a cleanup at the end of a trip then don’t follow this step.
  • Carry the waste holding tank back to your portable toilet and replace it as it was before.
  • If your water tank needs to be refilled then now is the ideal time to take it over to the tank or host to do so.
  • Dispose of your gloves and wash your hands thoroughly to ensure you haven’t picked up any harmful bacteria.

If you are confused about How to set up your camping toilet or how to maintain the cleanliness of your toilet then click on this link.

FAQs

Can you put human waste in the garbage?

Human waste should not be disposed of with regular trash; however, a heavy-duty trash bag can be used to line a trash can and all waste bags placed inside the larger bag, or one bin can be designated for human waste can be if multiple bins are available (e.g., green waste bin).

Where can I empty my portable toilet?

Separate the flushing tank from the waste tank. The tank should be emptied at a proper dump point or in a toilet on a sewerage system. Never empty into a toilet on a septic system as the chemicals can kill the bacteria that make the septic system work.

Is it illegal to throw away pee?

Yes, throwing urine on someone would constitute an assault. You could also sue him in a civil court for damages to the coat. If there is a fear of him hurting you, you should consider filing a Family Violence 12-Month Protection Order.

Is it illegal to throw away poop?

It is illegal to dispose of hazardous waste in the garbage, down storm drains, or onto the ground. And by throwing hazardous waste in the garbage, you can cause additional hazards to your garbage handler. Regulations to protect public health and the environment have been changing.

What will dissolve human feces?

Use bleach just in case when your toilet is clogged severely. You will need to pour two to three cups of household bleach into the bowl. Wait until it dissolves the poop, and then flush the toilet a few times.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped you with your problems about how to dispose of human waste while camping. we also looked into how to get through this process without hurting your dignity.

There is nothing to be ashamed of in your area or Campsite. some campsites even have stick guidelines that are required to be followed or otherwise they take strict actions.

You have any different creative ways to dispose of human waste then please let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear those.

Check out our other camping guides on a website.

Until then happy camping!

Filed Under: Guides, Camping Toilets

Can You Take Camping Stove On Planes? Must-Know Offical Rules First

January 29, 2021 by Canberk Koksal Leave a Comment

This question in the title seems a bit crazy, but it sure does happen to people a lot. You will see security pulling people out of the check-in list to explain a burner or a stove in their luggage. Trust me they are not crazy, they are doing the right thing but they need to play a little smarter.

You are allowed to carry camping stoves on the plane. This seems like a risky idea, but what would you do if you are traveling to a new state or a whole different country to trek or explore the breathtaking beauty of the world.

You would not want to invest in a new camping stove in a different country, you might get yourself into fraud or they may ask you for extra money since you are a foreigner. What is the point of going through the hassle of finding a hardware store in a new place, when you have already invested once in the stove?

When you dealing with something as risky as stoves on a plane, you have got to follow the right regulations and rules for it. We are here to brief you all about camping stoves on a plane.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents
  • Guide To Know Various Camping Toilets And How They Work?
    • Bucket Toilet
    • The Compost Toilet
  • How To Empty The Toilet?
    • Steps To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping
  • FAQs
  • Conclusion

Rules For Carrying A Stove On The Plane

Can You Take Camping Stove On Planes

Since backpacking gear can run afoul of multiple safety rules, it is recommended that hikers be cautious and follow these strategies for hassle-free travel.

The rules for carrying a stove on a plane are laid by Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Here is what they have said about stoves on their official website- “Camp stoves are allowed in carry-on or checked bags only if they are empty of all fuel and cleaned so that no fuel vapors or residue remain. Please wrap cords and layer items in bags so officers can get a clear view of the items.” (view source)

  • Only new stoves in their original packaging are allowed.
  • Used stoves must be cleaned of all burn deposits and odors to pass inspection.
  • Liquid- fuel stoves are refused more often than canisters burners because they retain more residues. Consider cleaning the stoves by scrubbing them thoroughly with soapy water and pack them in checked luggage.
  • Consider carrying canisters, as they look normal under X-rays so have never been bothered.
  • Carrying an MSR Whisperlite but make sure to empty the fuel water before traveling. If you let it out for a couple of days before flying it should be fine.

TSA Rules

  • You are allowed to bring a stove in carrying on our checked baggage, but only if you take the time and care to empty it of all fuel and clean it so there are no vapors or residue left.
  • Uncleaned stoves are not entertained, they will contain flammable vapors, and can be confiscated.
  • It is recommended to store your clean, dry store in its stuff sack in your checked bag.
  • TSA Not allow you to carry IsoPro canister fuel on an airplane for obvious reasons.
  • Fuel bottle for a liquid fuel stove if you take the proper precautions.
  • It is better to clean the portal thoroughly with soap, a brush, and plenty of hot water to remove the smell of fuel.
  • Make sure your border is dry inside and out with no scent of fuel.
  • Remove the cap or valve so that the bottle is open and TSA can see that it empty.
  • There is a chance that less experienced PSA employees can contest skate your fuel bottle because it has the red paint or warning signs on the outside. We would not recommend you to remove those important warnings but you can surely do something to protect your bottles.
  • Each bottle in a piece of paper and cover it with a rubber band.
  • We recommend printing the TSA travel documents and using them as a bottle wrap.
  • Always carry another copy of the document in your luggage just in case.
TSA rules for carrying camping gears on plane
  • The summary of the story of the bottle and parts so the agents have a good idea of what they are looking at.
  • If you got bored reading this article, then check out how to cook cookies while camping.
  • There might be a slight chance that even after following all the guidelines your stove or fuel bottles cannot make it up to the plane, so always have a plan B for your stove.
  • Research about where to buy replacements when you land or whom can you borrow or rent gear from.
  • If you are a rich coma we recommend that you ship the empty fuel container directly to the destination in advance just so you don’t have to worry about it.
  • Shipping fuel bottle at the destination might charge you extra dollars and it can be a hassle, it is almost always better to find it at a local retailer.
  • All the flammable items are banned from the checked luggage as well as the carry-on bag, including gasoline, compressed gas cylinders, aerosol insecticides, carrying, and many types of animal repellents.
  • And other Sharp tools can only be packed in checked luggage and must be wrapped to prevent Airport security from being injured while randomly checking the luggage.
  • For more information, you can visit the TSA official website.
  • These are the TSA travel documents that you might require.

Guidelines For Some Other Camping Gears

Lighters

  • You can pack butane lighters in carrying on luggage, along with one book of safety matches.
  • This rule was brought into practice after August 2007.

Batteries

  • Passengers are not allowed to pack spare Lithium metal batteries that are used in many cameras and GPS units with checked luggage.
  • Can carry these batteries in your carry on bag to escape security.
  • Alkaline, NiMH, and NiCad types are allowed in any luggage.

Liquids

  • Bear spray exceeds the 4-fluid-ounce limit established by the TSA for self-defense place in checked luggage.
  • You can either ship it ahead of time, or buy it at your destination.

Passing Through Airport Security

  • Even though TSA had laid out proper guidelines for camping years but some airlines have their policies of their own. Therefore it is safe to confirm from the airlines about bringing camping gear which you for the flight.
  • Many camping organizations recommend printing out a copy of TS a regulation on camp stores and traveling with camping equipment and keep it when passing through airport security.

FAQs

What can I put my camping stove on?

Many camping stoves are okay to put on a plastic table. However, depending on the design of the camping stove, they could melt the plastic. That said, the circumstances for every stove can be different. It’s always better to stay on the safe side and pair the stove up with a heat-resistant mat or table.

Can you take canisters on a plane?

Except for personal medical oxygen cylinders, you can only carry an EMPTY compressed gas cylinder on board a plane. To be permitted (in either carry-on or checked baggage), it must be visible to the TSA officer that the cylinder is empty.

Can I bring a camping tent in my carry on bag?

You may transport this item in carry-on or checked bags. For items you wish to carry on, you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Tent stakes and poles must be packed in checked bags.

Is it safe to carry camping stoves?

Popular on camping trips, aboard boats, in cooking demos and buffet restaurants, portable burner butane stoves are useful but can also be dangerous. Flaws in design can cause fires and even explosions of these devices. Additional dangers include sudden pressure releases, overheating, and gas leakage.

What’s not allowed in check-in baggage?

Compressed gases – deeply refrigerated, flammable, non-flammable, and poisonous such as butane oxygen, liquid nitrogen, aqualung cylinders, and compressed gas cylinders. Corrosives such as acids, alkalis, mercury, and wet cell batteries and apparatus containing mercury.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped with all your question about whether or not we should carry the camping stove on a plane, and if yes, then what are the guidelines. It is important to know these vital guidelines while risking a flight.

If you have any questions about these guidelines, let us know in the comment section below. We would try to answer it.

Check out our website for more camping guidelines.

Until then happy camping!

Filed Under: Guides, Camping Cookwear

How To Get Over The Initial Fear Of Camping? 8 Most Common Reasons

January 29, 2021 by Canberk Koksal Leave a Comment

Fun fact- there is no such thing as “fear of camping”. Well, I am not surprised, something so fun, surreal, relaxing, adventurous, full of experiences and surprises, natural like camping cannot be hated or scared by anyone.

If you don’t believe me, just google “what is fear of camping called” and check. To save your time, you will be lead to a result of what is fear of bears called. You can keep bears away from your campsite with these tips.

If there is nothing like the fear of camping, then what is this initial fear we are talking about. This is nothing but a little anxiousness and nervous excitement that everyone gets before starting something new for the first time.

But what we are missing is, even it seems a little too much initially, but there is always a first time!

Trust me, once you experience camping, you cannot turn back. Those initial fears would be worth fighting against. The kids are never anxious to go camping, cause they are curious to discover anything to everything in the world.

It can also be debated as- “they don’t have to plan so much stuff before camping”, which is also true, but as we told you it will be worth taking the risk. Here is a long list of activities for kids to do while camping, if you planning with kids.

We have the answers to what are some fears we have before we start the first camping trip, and how to tackle those fears.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents
  • Guide To Know Various Camping Toilets And How They Work?
    • Bucket Toilet
    • The Compost Toilet
  • How To Empty The Toilet?
    • Steps To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping
  • FAQs
  • Conclusion

What Are Some Fears You Might Face Initially?

How To Get Over The Initial Fear Of Camping

If it helps, it is entirely normal to be afraid to start something new. It, not your fault if your family was not a fan of outdoorsy events, or you never went on a spontaneous trip with friends. You were just not exposed to these fun activities to face your fear of venturing out.

Whatever the fear is, take baby steps towards solving it. For example: if you cannot spend a whole night outdoor, then try going on a night out with friends for a night.

That would help you see all the perks and cons of spending the night out.

Or the much better idea is you can go camping just in your backyard for a day and see what all supplies would you require for a night camp.

These are some obvious fears one have in the initial times of camping.

1. No Access To Technology Or The Internet

This is the biggest fear of ‘millennials’, that they will have to cut themselves off from the internet and technology, no phones, no laptops, no wifi. This is like getting cut off from the world. Well, to get it straight, this is the whole point of camping!

This seems like a mammoth task for once, but you will have to appreciate the gift of nature including the beautiful seamless sky, the scent of a flower, the sunsets, and sunrises. This beauty is required to be seen and cherished, without phones in our hands and a lot of work stress in our minds.

You cannot exceed the technology on the campground, as you have limited electricity, that will be used for necessary appliances like refrigerator, that will keep your food fresh. I mean, if you value your phone more than food, then may unplug the fridge and charge your phone.

What should be done?

Try getting off social media, for a while, and only contact other people for work, delete all the other fun social media apps on your phone. I know this is too much to ask, but you will not regret the social media detox. This will be counted as large baby steps, towards your fear. Trust me, I have tried it.

Another thing that can be done, is you can carry charged power banks, with you. If you are one of the people, who just cannot resist updating stories on social media, then you will have to carry a lot of power banks, if the trip is a long one.

Camping sites do not provide you with electricity, and also there is less network coverage in the peaceful areas. You can carry your generator if it helps, and here is what type of generator you should get for camping.

2. What If I Get Lost?

This fear is the most found in beginners. You keep thinking that you will get lost in the forest and will never be able to find your way back or way out of the woods.

If you are bad with directions and do get lost in the woods, you won’t die, your survival instincts will keep you alive. How bad it could be living in a forest? Just kidding! You will not have to live in the woods.

What to do?

Do not wander around in the forest too much, if you are new to the area. Always go to a nearby known area, if you are a beginner. If you still have to leave the tent area for some reason, avoid going alone, always take someone, who knows a bit about the place.

The best thing to do would be to carry a compass with you and learn how to use it.

3. Feeling Of Vulnerability

Due, to the city lifestyle where everyone takes care of their own business, we have accustomed ourselves to living behind closed doors. We are just too comfortable in our comfort zone, that the slightest situation that seems out of the comfort zone, scares you. Even a walk in the park is too dangerous.

Well, this is not wrong, there are various things to be worried about and to be scared about. What matters is facing those thoughts and thinking why would that happen to you?

Like what are the chances, that the people camping next to your campsite are thieves or even worst kidnappers. The chances are very low. The thieves and kidnappers would find much more resources in a crowded area.

Being vulnerable (even in the slightest way) is the key to all the new and amazing changes in your life. You might start considering camping as your new comfort zone. Who knows? Almost all the crime stories we hear are mostly fictional. So just go and take the risk to be vulnerable and happy and satisfied in nature.

For a beginner, you can take some sort of protection for yourself. Learn self-defense techniques. Consider carrying a small can of mace with you and a camping knife, if you are allowed.

4. Encounter With Wildlife

How to overcome the fear of wildlife encounter while camping

I think humans can be faced and fought but what about the mighty wildlife. So many people beginners are afraid of encountering the animals present in their natural habitat.

You should keep this in mind, until and unless an animal does not eat humans, they will keep a distance from you. They will tend to ignore you as much as you want to ignore them.

I am not saying, you will never encounter one, they can visit you as we are the ones entering their habitat. There are so many factors, that will attract animals to your campsite.

What should we do?

The first thing to do is, research the campsite you are going to, and if it has any dangerous animals. Being prepared for any situation is crucial as it tells you what to do if you are ever in such circumstances.

There are various guidelines to follow to avoid each animal. Here is the list of guidelines for your help.

  • Bears
  • Snakes
  • Spider and bugs

5. Lack Of Basic Facilities

This fear also comes from being too comfortable in the comfort zone. The questions around your mind go like, what will I pee? Is there a bathroom at the campsite? Where should I go to take care of my business? What if someone saw me while bathing? Where do I sleep? How to sleep in the tent?

We understand all this but there are so many portable facilities that will take care of your privacy, and are pretty comfortable. Here is how to DIY portable toilets, and how to shower while camping.

Here is how to sleep comfortably in sleeping bags

6. Are Tents Made Of Thin Fabric Even Safe? And If I Can Set My Tent?

This fear is common in people who have never been to a boys/girls scout, where you were tasked to build your tent. Another thing is are the tents even safe?

Well, there is a reason when we think of camping we picture tent and campfire in a beautiful location. The tents are safe if set up in right place and set up properly.

Prepare everything before the trip and practice setting up a tent at home or in your backyard. Practice pitching your tent a couple of times to master your tent.

Here is how you can DIY your tent and maybe watch some YouTube videos on how to do it.

7. I Am Afraid Of The Dark

This fear is also very common and it comes naturally because of all those horror movies. We can’t help but get those creepy thoughts once it’s all dark.

The best way to tackle fear is to face it. Practice camping in dark in the backyard, always keep a torch or flashlight near you. You will have a campfire near you to keep you warm and to light up your area. Having a companion makes it easier.

8. What If The Weather Changes

It might be nice, sunny and warm on the day you are planning, although it has been that way for a month now, we all know how uncertain the weather is nowadays. Thanks to all the climate change we created.

The only thumb rule to this is watching the weather forecast data, ensure you prepare for any weather such that your gear withstands such that your gear can withstand sun, rain, mud, snow, etc.

For more such thumb rules for camping, click here.

FAQs

How do I get over my fear of camping quickly?

If you want, take baby steps.
1. Camp in your own backyard. Make dinner out there, hang out in the tent, but spend the night indoors. Do this a few times.
2. Now camp out in your backyard again. This time sleep there at night. Bring a flashlight. You still have use of the bathroom in the house which is really close by.

Is camping alone dangerous?

Solo camping can be safe, fulfilling, and a darn good time. Camping alone gives you time to recharge, gather your thoughts, and learn how to be by yourself. In fact, I suggest everyone give it a try at least once in their lives if only to experience that utter solitude that comes with quintessential “me time”.

Is camping alone safe for women?

The short answer is yes, it’s safe to camp alone as a single woman. I’ve camped alone in both developed campgrounds and the wilderness. If you love camping and you just need to get out and away, you probably know what I mean when I say that I love camping alone.

Is it safe to car camping alone?

Overall, my car camping experiences have been very safe, but as a female solo traveler, you can’t be too careful. Here are some tips for safety on the road: Let a friend or family member know where you are going. Never ever tag your current location on social media when you are alone.

Is it worth camping for a night?

Car camping, even for one day, can reduce your stress and improve your well-being. Any chance to get in touch with nature and go outside can be healing, and your chances of having an enjoyable time improve dramatically if you are adequately prepared.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped you to try camping or even think about it once. This is a lifetime experience for all. It is easier to take this initiative at a young age when it’s easy to be vulnerable. Once you grow old, it is difficult to let go of some things.

If you have any other fears related to camping, then do let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear those.

Check out our website for more helpful guides.

Until then happy camping!

Filed Under: Guides

How Much Wood Do I Need For Camping? Self Experienced Data

January 28, 2021 by Canberk Koksal Leave a Comment

Why do you need woods for camping? Well, for the campfire. Duh! You will have to agree with me when I say that campfires are the most fun and exciting part of a camping trip. And we cannot have a campfire unless we have woods, right? But the question is- how much?

If you have a campfire, you have a solution to so many problems, like food. You can prepare so many favorites food items on the campfire like Cakes! Potatoes! Cookies! Popcorns!

One of the pinnacles of a camping trip is the campfire. But what amount of wood will keep your fire on all night, or what kind will get the charcoal ready for cooking and stuff.

Well, we have answers to How Much Wood Do I Need For Camping or what kind of wood is required, and other camping necessities.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents
  • Guide To Know Various Camping Toilets And How They Work?
    • Bucket Toilet
    • The Compost Toilet
  • How To Empty The Toilet?
    • Steps To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping
  • FAQs
  • Conclusion

How Much Wood Would We Require?

To answer your question quickly, we would require 4 to five average-size logs per hour and for cooking on a campfire you will need 6-10 logs per hour.

In most places, you would find the woods being sold in bundles. A bundle generally contains 4-5 logs, each stick is about 4-5 inches in circumference and about 12-14 inches long. You might also consider buying a face cord. A face cord is a wood that has been cut, split, and stacked. The stack is about 4 feet high and 8 feet long.

Besides various factors that affect the burn time of the woods, one bundle can give you an hour to an hour and a half of burn time. This is for a typical campground fire ring.

The data below will show you how many bundles of firewood you need to keep your fire burning for how long. You can use this data to estimate how long will your wood stock will last based on a normal campfire ring, i.e. 3-4 feet in diameter.

Campfire duration-Firewood required

  • 2 hours: 1-2 bundles (4-10 sticks)
  • 4 hours: 3-5 bundles (12-25 sticks)
  • 6 hours: 5-7 bundles (25-35 sticks)

These are general calculation which will give you a rough picture of how many woods do you need? You can always add or decrease the calculation as per your requirements.

Don’t forget to calculate woods for cooking, you might want to add a bundle to the number above like if you want to keep your fire up to 2 hours but you also need to cook in those 2 hours, you can add 1-2 extra bundle for cooking.

Sometimes, maybe, you do need active fire for cooking, it does not make it up to the temperature we need for cooking. That is when you burn down the wood and cook over the coals. Coals are more efficient in cooking your food.

You will have to plan your time for starting a fire so that you have the coal ready by the time you cook. Do not especially burn the wood for coals, it is a waste of resources.

Since wood and fire are affected by so many different factors in nature, this is not an exact calculation. You still have to carry a little extra wood for the buffer.

It is better to have extra than less, you can either leave it for the next camper or maybe use it on the next upcoming camping trip. You do not want to keep the fire burning all the time, it would require an immense amount of wood.

You require wood for making a fire and you would want a fire when it is chilly outside or you want to cook.

To sum it up all, on average along with wood for cooking and relaxation and general use, you would require five bundles a day.

This is also an approximate calculation, you will also have to keep in kind the number of people you are cooking for, which would increase the amount of coal you require and hence increasing your wood necessity.

What Kind Of Wood Is Best For The Campfire?

What kind of wood would I need

1. Seasoned Woods

Seasoned wood means the woods that are cut, stacked, and left to dry. These woods are easier to burn than any greenwood. Greenwoods as in not completely green, but they are not dried and prepared, is very difficult to burn and produce a lot of smoke than fire. Unseasoned woods are called greenwood.

Seasoning woods took 6 months, so whatever wood you would pick yourself or find lying around in the forest might not be seasoned. Sticks that fell off the tree have a chance of being ready to burn, based on climate, they might be warm, dry, and lightweight.

Hardwood Is The Best

Hardwood is better wood than any kind of softwood. It keeps the fire for a long time, they are cleaner and sometimes hotter. Everything you need in firewood is what you will find in hardwood.

These are some of the good hardwood for camping:

Oak

  • These are found very easily all over North America.
  • Oak burns slowly and heavily, and have high heat capacity.
  • Its coal can remain hot for hours.
  • The embers of it are perfect for cooking any foil dishes.

Birch

  • It has a long burning period and produces a bright flame with few sparks.
  • It also produces high heat, makes it perfect for chilly nights.
  • It a dense hardwood.
  • It does not take long to the season and gets ready to be burned in a few months only after cutting.

Ash

  • It produces a steady flame.
  • Brings adequate heat to keep campers warm.
  • It is easy to split, in case you want to shorten to shape the campfire pit.
  • It has been devasted by ash dieback diseases.
  • If you are in an area of ash trees, then you would have plenty of firewood to burn.

Hickory

  • It burns slowly producing plenty of heat and light.
  • Ti ignites with a bright flame and minimal smoke.
  • It is also famous to produce an enchanting scent that seems to add a flavor to the food you cook.
  • It rarely produces a spark, which means if you roast your food, it will not get burnt.

Cedar

  • This is the only softwood that is appropriate for a campfire.
  • It burns low and slow, can even last up to a day long.
  • It flames are not that vigorous, but it produces a lot of heat.
  • It also a pleasing smell, when burnt.

What Factors Affect The Woods For Firewood?

How Much Wood Do I Need For Camping

Climate And Weather

  • It is difficult to find firewood if you are out camping in cold weather.
  • Some campsite, do not allow a campfire as it might produce forest fires.
  • The climate and the area of the campsite affect the woods needs to a great extend.
  • Invest in more woods, if it going to be cold.
  • Even if the weather forecast informs for warm weather, it won’t hurt for a couple of more woods.

Firewood type

  • We saw hardwood is preferred more over softwood. You saw what are the specific wood names, good for firewood.
  • Softwood other than cedar is not preferred for the fire.
  • It burns out very quickly, and you might end up spending more money on more woods.
  • The best way is to start the fire with softwoods and then continue with hardwood, to keep it burning for a long time.

Moisture content

  • You cannot get the woods ready just in a week before the trip, as it will not be dry enough to be burnt.
  • If the wood looks dry, it does not mean it is ready to be burned, it still has some moisture content in it.
  • Fresh wood is more difficult to burn, as it has a high amount of moisture content.
  • Fresh wood also produces a lot of smoke on burning.
  • Water in the fire will make it potential to crackle and pop a bit.
  • The maximum water content should be 20%, less than that would be great.

How To Build A Campfire?

This can be a bit tricky. It was a task for primitive men, as they practiced ancient methods, but with technology and new methods, it has been a bit easier than before.

These are the steps to follow to start a campfire successfully.

  • Find and build a fire ring– some campfires, provide you with pits, but if not you will just have to dig a pit in the ground and then start the fire.
  • Gather firewood– We just briefed you about what kind of wood you would require and how much wood you would require.
  • Build the campfire– you need to set the woods in a specific arrangement to speed up the firing process. There are 3 types of arrangements to follow- cone, log cabin, pyramid.
  • Light the campfire– you can do so by adding the instant fire starter packets inside the woods. You can also burn up some crumpled newspaper between the woods. Here is an amazon link for an instant fire starter.
  • Extinguish the campfire– always put out the fire if not in use. Do not leave any fire unattended. It is important to follow fire instructions.

Here is the guideline to start the fire in detail.

FAQs

Why softwood is not recommended?

Softwood burns out very quickly, it will produce a lot of smoke and you will end up spending more wood than expected.

Should we build a fire in open?

The open area is fine, but you should keep your fire far away from the wind. Wind will redirect the flames and also makes the flames more vigorous. The wind can also start a fire from the coal.

How many bundles of wood do I need for a bonfire?

Many people recommend somewhere between 3 and 5 bundles a day. Some even suggest as many as 7 bundles. Just keep in mind that the exact temperatures ultimately determine how much you’ll use. There’s a special magic about being around a campfire in the cold.

How do you stack wood for a campfire?

Begin by stacking wood as if you were building a cabin place two pieces of wood parallel on the bottom, then stack two on top, perpendicular. Repeat the process until your fire reaches the desired height, then place tinder and kindling in the center square and ignite.

How long will firewood last?

Wood that isn’t stored correctly can start to rot due to regular and prolonged contact with moisture. The CSIA states that you can keep firewood stored for up to 3 to 4 years without any issues of the wood going bad if you follow these recommended procedures for storing the wood.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped you out with all the wood-related questions and doubts. You should never leave a fire unattended. It is mandatory to have a campfire experience.

If you have any new suggestion for woods requirements on camp, feel free to share with us in the comment section, or share your campfire stories. We would love to hear those.

Check out our article on other camping guides on our website.

Until then happy camping!

Filed Under: Guides

How To Cook Popcorns While Camping? 5 Easiest Ways

January 26, 2021 by Canberk Koksal Leave a Comment

17.3 billion popcorns!
This is the number of popcorn Americans consume annually. (view source)

This is such an easy snack to have while on a camp. Imagine having popcorns and sitting around the campfire and telling stories or singing your favorite songs or you can even play some games. Talking of snacks we check out our article on how to bake cookies while camping.

The most valid reason to have popcorns on the campsite would be it is so easy to make and you can’t deny the fact that they are delicious. It is famous as a favorite movie time snack.

If you still need some more reasons to have popcorns while camping, here some more reasons to have:

  • It is healthy! It is a low calory snack to have, and you can have as many as you want. It only has 31 calories in it.
  • It is 100% whole grain and also contains fibers and antioxidants.
  • It’s easy to cook and does not give you greasy fingers while eating them.

We have the solution to how to cook popcorns while camping, of course on the campfire, and the right step-by-step way to do it.

Let’s get started, shall we?

Table of Contents
  • Guide To Know Various Camping Toilets And How They Work?
    • Bucket Toilet
    • The Compost Toilet
  • How To Empty The Toilet?
    • Steps To Dispose Of Toilet Waste While Camping
  • FAQs
  • Conclusion

5 Ways To Cook Popcorns While Camping

How To Cook Popcorns While Camping

Well, it’s just popcorns, it shouldn’t be that difficult. Yes, it is effortless, but you need a proper technique to ensure that every kernel pops and you do not waste the kernels. The kernels left unpopped are called old maids. Too many old maids are not good.

1. Foil Pouches

This is just like preparing food packets for camping, but instead of food, you will be preparing popcorns. Here is the way how to do it correctly.

  • You will require heavy-duty aluminum foil. Other than this type, all other foil will burn in the fire.
  • You will require vegetable oil or butter will also do.
  • Do not cut out oil in nake of health, because it will take a lot of time for it to pop.
  • Other requirements- popcorn kernels, salt, a campfire stick (the one that is forked shapes are preferred), a campfire.
  • Cut out a square of the foil and put two tablespoons of kernels into the middle of one of the half of the foil.
  • Drizzle 2 tablespoons of oil.
  • Add salt to taste.
  • Fold the foil over the popcorn and oil.
  • Crimp the ends to secure the packet. Fold it a couple of times.
  • Don’t pack it too tight, because the kernels need space to pop, otherwise, they will tear the foil and they might become the part of ashes in the campfire.
  • Make sure there are several layers of foil around the top so that when you poke the campfire stick, the packet does fall off.
  • You want the edge to be sturdy and thick.
  • You can, of course, make them beforehand, to save time on the campsite.
  • Poke the campfire fork through that thick band of foil you created in the previous steps.
  • Hold this packet over the campfire. Don’t put it in the flames. Just like you roast your marshmallows.
  • Shake it from time to time, but not too much that it falls off the stick and falls in the campfire.
  • When you hear enough pops, and think they are all done. Open the packet carefully. It will be steamy hot inside.
  • Enjoy your popcorns.

2. Using Pie Tins

This is also very easy to do and it hardly takes you 10 mins, or even less if you are brisk at working with a campfire.

You will require:

  • Popcorns kernels
  • Vegetable oil
  • Garlic powder (optional). Or any kind of seasoning you like.
  • Kosher salt

How to pop popcorns over a pie tin? Here is how:

  • Put the popcorns kernels and oil in the tin.
  • Do not overload the tin, overcrowding will lead you to many old maids.
  • Cover it with foil, but doming the top to leave enough room for the kernel to pop.
  • Keep it over the campfire
  • Shake the tin from time to time with tongs.
  • Season with salt and garlic powder.
  • And toss a little to mix the seasoning uniformly.
  • And voila! You are ready.

3. Old Fashioned Pan Style

This is like cooking popcorns just like you do at home. You will need the basic requirements of popcorns and a deep pan with a long handle. A dutch oven works but it difficult to shake it as it is heavy.

Here is how to cook popcorns in a pan.

  • Add oil and spread it around the base and sides.
  • Add the kernels. Only add enough to layer the base.
  • Add salt to taste.
  • Put the lid on and put it over the fire.
  • If your pan does not come with a lid you can cover it with an inverted pie tin or heavy-duty foil.
  • Let the pot heat up until you hear the first pop.
  • Put up the pot and shake it to ensure all the kernels pop.
  • Don’t let the pan sit on the fire for more than a couple of hours.
  • When you hear the popping is slowed down a bit.
  • You can remove the lid now, but keep your face away, as some kernels might be popping.
  • You are ready to have your popcorns.

4. DIY Mini Popcorn Vending Machine

As fun it sounds, it pretty fun to build it, and using it also very easy. You will be more surprised when you hear the requirements.

  • 2 empty soft drink tin cans. (coke cans will do)
  • A candle.
  • Popcorn essentials
  • Matchstick
  • Swish knife, or all in one pocket tool kit.

Popcorn vending machine out of cans? Yes, here is how:

  • Clean the cans and get your safety gloves ready.
  • Cut one from the top leaving the 3/4th from the end, using the swish knife.
  • This will act as a burner, and hold the candle. So it is important to secure the cut ends of the can by folding them inside. Folding will provide a grip for the other can as well.
  • Cut a square from both sides of the burner, so that candle gets its oxygen to burn.
  • Hammer the end of the burner can so that it becom3es flat to hold the candle.
  • Now preparing the other can. You just require to cut out a little window that opens from downwards.
  • This can will pop the kernels and the popcorns will come out from the window.
  • Keep this can over the burner. After you put in the burning candle.
  • Insert the kernel mixed with oil inside the top can from the top opening of the can. The opening used to drink the beverages from.
  • Keep a container in front of the downwards window and collect popcorns.
  • Season as per your wish.

Here is a youtube video for the same method. Use this as a visual guide for yourself.

5. Campfire Popcorn Popper

We saved the best for last. It is cookware especially designed to cook popcorns. It is mostly made of mesh, or sometimes it is opaque.

It is shaped like a shell with a long handle to hold it over the fire.

It is effortless to use. Just put the kernels, with oil of course. If your popcorn popper is made out of mesh then skip the oil. The campfire does the flavoring part.

Hold this popper over the campfire and shake it continuously. Wait for all the kernels to pop. here is a youtube video to help you with how exactly it works.

Empty this in a large bowl, season it and enjoy!

Some Seasoning Ideas For Popcorns

popcorn seasoning for camp popcorns

These all seasoning ideas are not too fancy but appropriate for camping. Popcorns are more fun with seasonings.

1. Spicy Paprika

  • 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoon of smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic
  • Salt
  • Mix all of these. And done!

2. Piri-Piri Popcorns

  • I am not sure you can create Piri- Piri seasoning at home from scratch.
  • Get the ready-made seasoning and toss the popcorns with this seasoning and you are good to go.

3. S’more

  • Toss in a handful of mini chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed up graham cracker bits to create a s’more-style popcorn trail mix.
  • The marshmallows and chocolate melt into the popcorn for a sticky and satisfying treat.

4. Kettle Corn

  • Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of sugar along with the salt and oil while you pop the popcorn.
  • It tastes like the kettle corn you’ll find at a carnival and it’s just as addicting.

FAQs

Can you make popcorn on a grill?

Yes. Simply throw your kernels in an aluminum foil pan, cover with foil and cook on the grill at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Top with your favorite seasoning or opt for barbecue flavored seasoning for true BBQ Popcorn. Place on grill until the kernels begin to pop. Using tongs, shake once popping begins.

How do you make popcorn on a stove with foil?

Cover with heavy-duty aluminum foil and poke 10 slits in the top with a knife. Place the bowl over medium heat and shake constantly using a pair of tongs to hold the bowl. Continue shaking until the popcorn finishes popping, approximately 3 minutes. Remove the bowl from the heat and carefully remove the foil.

Can you pop popcorns on a cob?

Put whole corn cob, or extracted kernels, into a medium-size paper bag. Fold the end of the bag over twice, and microwave on high heat until popping slows to between 2–3 seconds. Be careful of steam when you open the bag. Enjoy your popcorn on the cob!

What is some healthy seasoning for popcorns?

Spice up your popcorn in a healthy way by adding hot sauce or melt a couple of ounces of cheese on your popcorn. You also can try a sprinkle of balsamic vinegar or eat your popcorn with pickles or jalapeño peppers. Make sure to add spices and seasonings and not powders, flavorings, or a lot of salt.

Can you pop popcorns without oil?

Take the heaviest, lidded pot you have (cast-iron is ideal) and cover the bottom with a single layer of kernels. Pour water over the top of the kernels until they’re covered, but not floating. Put the covered pot on the burner, and turn the heat on medium-high. Periodically shake the pan.

Conclusion

I hope this article helped you with how to properly cook popcorns over a campfire. If you have a portable projector and electricity source, then you might also have a movie night with different flavors of popcorns for each of the members. That would be whole another experience.

If you have any new ideas on how to cook popcorns, do share them with us through the comment section. We would love to hear those.

Check out our guides on camping on our website.

Until then happy camping!

Filed Under: Guides, Camping Cookwear

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