Camping means leaving the comforts of home behind. It involves getting up close and personal with nature. However, hygiene doesn’t have to take a backseat. I stick to some easy, affordable DIY camping toiletries that keep my backpack light and my routines simple. If you’re looking to cut costs, DIY toiletries are the way to go. They help reduce waste. You can also enjoy the satisfaction of making your own gear. Here I’ll share my favorite methods for making practical, packable cleanliness kits for the outdoors.
Why Go DIY With Camping Toiletries?
DIY toiletries aren’t just about saving money. Making your own kits lets you avoid carrying around a bunch of plastic travel-size bottles. I know what goes into every product I use. This means I don’t have to worry about weird chemicals. There are no things I might be allergic to. Most importantly, DIY camping toiletries can be tailored to just the stuff I actually need. No more weighing down my pack with extra lotions or mystery sprays.
What I like most is how DIY toiletry kits reduce single-use plastics. There’s something satisfying about using a reusable tin or a solid bar. Keeping things compact, eco-friendly, and fuss-free makes camping routines so much easier.
What You Really Need for Camping Hygiene
It’s not about packing your whole bathroom. When I go camping, I focus on a few must-haves that keep me clean but don’t fill up my pack. Here are the basics I don’t skip:
- Soap: For hands, body, and even dishes
- Tooth care: Toothbrush and toothpaste (or powder)
- Deodorant: Something simple that actually works
- Wipes or washcloth: For refreshing on the go
- Hand sanitizer: When water isn’t around
- Toilet kit: TP or reusable cloth, small shovel, sealable bags
Beyond that, things like facial cleansers, moisturizers, or extra hygiene items largely depend on personal needs. They also depend on the type of trip planned. Some people also like to bring a tiny comb. Others prefer a nail clipper or a mini sunscreen stick. Just make sure to choose what really matters for you and your adventure style.
Easy DIY Camping Toiletries to Try
DIY toiletries don’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Most take just a few minutes and require only a few basic supplies you probably have at home. Here’s what I usually throw together before hitting the trail.
All-Purpose Soap Bars
Bringing a bar of soap beats carrying around liquid bottles. I love castile or homemade coconut oil soap bars—they’re gentle, easy to pack, and can handle just about everything. Plus, they don’t spill.
A basic camping soap is pretty easy to make. I melt together equal parts grated castile soap and coconut oil, add a splash of water, and heat until smooth. A few drops of essential oil, like tea tree or lavender, can boost the cleaning power and smell nice. Pour the mix into a silicone mold or empty food container, let it set overnight, and that’s it. Wrap in wax paper or stash in a tin for easy packing.
If you want to mix in some variety, you can add a pinch of dried herbs. Choose herbs like rosemary or mint for texture or exfoliation. Just keep it simple so nothing irritates your skin.
DIY Toothpowder or Toothpaste
Travelsize toothpaste is fine, but DIY toothpowder is lighter and lasts longer. I mix two tablespoons of baking soda and one tablespoon of fine sea salt in a jar. I add a pinch of bentonite clay, which is optional but helps clean and polish. Add a few drops of peppermint oil for flavor—just don’t go overboard. Dip your damp toothbrush straight in or tap some powder into your palm before brushing.
For something closer to store-bought paste, I mix the tooth powder recipe above with a dab of coconut oil. Blend until it forms a thick paste, then store in a reusable silicone tube or a small jar. This paste is easy to portion and works well for both quick overnight trips or longer adventures.
Simple DIY Deodorant
Deodorant bars or powders work great on the trail and travel well. My easy go-to: blend one-quarter cup baking soda, one-quarter cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch, and six tablespoons coconut oil. Melt the coconut oil. Mix everything together until smooth. Add a few drops of an essential oil, such as cedar or lemon. Pour into a reusable tin and let it firm up in the fridge. Swipe under arms as needed, or just tap powder with your fingers.
If you want to avoid baking soda, try substituting extra arrowroot. You can also use a mix of shea butter with the coconut oil for a different texture. Customize scents and textures to suit your preferences and keep things feeling fresh.
Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer comes in handy when water is scarce. I combine two-thirds cup of isopropyl alcohol (at least 60%) with one-third cup of aloe vera gel. I also add a few drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil for scent. Pour into a tiny squeeze bottle, shake well, and use as needed. If you prefer, substitute witch hazel for a gentler effect, but be aware it’s not as harsh against germs.
Reusable Wipes and Washcloths
Wet wipes are convenient, but I try to avoid the waste on camping trips. Instead, I pack a few soft, cutup old tshirts or baby washcloths in a ziplock bag. Dampen them with clean water and use as needed, rinsing them out at camp. For bigger messes or to clean your feet after a long day, use a homemade wipe solution. Mix one cup of water, one tablespoon of gentle soap, and a couple of drops of tea tree oil. This solution soaks right into the cloth and keeps things fresh.
If you want, bring two small bags: one for clean wipes and another for used ones. Wash everything once you get home, and they’ll be ready for the next trip.
Toilet Kit: TP, Shovel, and Secure Bag
Bathroom needs are just part of camping. My kit always includes a roll of biodegradable toilet paper (rolled small). I also carry a tiny trowel for digging catholes. Additionally, I pack a strong, resealable bag for packing out used paper in spots where that’s required. Some folks prefer reusable wipes (washed back at camp in a dedicated container). I stash everything together in a small waterproof pouch, so it’s easy to grab quickly.
Don’t forget to follow Leave No Trace principles. Dig your cathole at least six to eight inches deep. Make sure it is at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, or camp. Always pack out any used paper or wipes as required by local rules.
What To Know Before Making Your Own Gear
A little research goes a long way when it comes to DIY projects. Here’s what I keep in mind. My homemade toiletries should be safe for me. They should also keep the outdoors in good shape.
- Biodegradable matters: Always use outdoorsafe, biodegradable soap far from water sources.
- Ingredient sensitivities: Not everyone’s skin likes baking soda or essential oils. Test on a small patch before trying it all over.
- Packaging: Small tins, bottles, and resealable bags are perfect for travel—choose items that are neither too bulky nor too breakable.
- Water sources: Pack enough water for washing up away from creeks and lakes, if you can.
- Check local regulations: Some places only allow certain soaps or expect you to pack out toilet paper and wipes.
Resources like Leave No Trace break down how to keep outdoor spaces clean and healthy. I always try to keep their principles in mind when choosing and using any hygiene product in the wild.
Pro Tips to Make Your Kit Last
DIY toiletries can be super simple to use as long as you prep well. Here are some practical tricks that work for me every time:
Keep it compact: Repurpose small jars and tins, or buy reusable travel-size containers. Even old film canisters are handy.
Preparation before packing: Take only what you’ll need for your trip. This way, you won’t end up with leftovers to haul home.
Double up on uses: That soap bar can wash everything. Hands, face, dishes, even clothing (in a pinch).
On the trail, my washcloth sometimes becomes a sweat rag. My deodorant bar also helps tame bug bites when I add tea tree oil. Keeping things flexible means I need fewer items and can adjust as I go. Your kit should fit your unique routines. It should also adapt as you learn what you do and don’t use on each adventure.
What To Bring: A Beginner’s DIY Toiletry Packing List
For anyone just getting started with making their own camping toiletries, here’s a checklist I return to trip after trip. Everything fits in a quart-size zip bag or small stuff sack:
- Homemade soap bar or small liquid
- DIY toothpowder or paste in a mini jar
- Travel toothbrush
- Deodorant tin
- Reusable washcloth or small wipes kit
- Hand sanitizer squeeze bottle
- Toilet kit (TP, trowel, bag)
- Tiny moisturizer balm for lips/hands
Add anything extra based on the season, trip length, or your skin’s needs. In cold or dry weather, you want a slightly heavier balm. For summer camping, consider carrying extra sunscreen or a small insect-repellent stick that fits in your kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Can I use these DIY toiletries for backpacking or longer camping trips?
Answer: Absolutely. Most homemade soaps and toothpowders last a week or two easily and don’t need much upkeep. Just portion out enough in advance and keep products in watertight containers. For longer trips, rehearse at home to ensure your kit lasts the entire time you’ll be out.
Question: Are DIY toiletries actually safe and effective?
Answer: I’ve found basic recipes to work really well for regular camping use. Always check for skin sensitivities, especially before using new soaps or deodorants. When in doubt, test at home first—better safe than sorry.
Question: What if I run out of something while I’m camping?
Answer: Most of these recipes are about flexibility. Plain water and a washcloth can handle most real emergencies until you get home. For toothpaste, baking soda alone is better than nothing. A plain bar of soap covers more uses than any specialty product. Being a little creative with what you’ve got goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
Making your own camping toiletries is practical, affordable, and can actually be a fun part of planning your outdoor adventures. I love how these DIY solutions lighten my load and help me tread more lightly on wild spaces. Even just replacing a couple of your usual products with homemade options can simplify your trip. These changes can also enhance your enjoyment on the next trip.
Test recipes at home. Dial in a kit that suits your routine. This makes staying fresh on the trail a whole lot easier. Wrapping up, happy camping, and stay fresh out there!
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
