As the crisp air of fall sets in and the leaves begin to turn, many campers are drawn to the great outdoors to take advantage of the cooler weather and stunning scenery. Whether you’re car camping with a trunk full of gear or heading deep into the backcountry with just a pack, it’s important to minimize your environmental impact. Going zero-waste while camping this fall not only helps preserve the wilderness for future generations but also enhances the overall outdoor experience. With a bit of planning and the right equipment, you can reduce—and even eliminate—waste on your trip.
Plan Ahead: Pack Light, But Smart
Fall camping often requires more gear than summer trips—think extra layers, sleeping bags rated for lower temperatures, and heartier food. While this means you might be carrying more, it doesn’t have to translate into more waste. A good zero-waste strategy begins before you even hit the trail.
Start by rethinking your packing list. Do an inventory of what you already own to avoid unnecessary purchases. Borrow or rent items you’ll only use seasonally, like snow stakes or cold-weather sleeping pads. Quality, reusable gear is key. Opt for products that are built to last, so you can avoid having to replace them often. For fall camping, this might include reusable hand warmers, wool clothing (which is both insulating and odor-resistant), and durable camp cookware.
Food: Homemade and Package-Free
When the temperatures drop, hearty meals are a must. Unfortunately, prepackaged camping meals often come in single-use plastic. Instead, prep your own meals at home using ingredients purchased in bulk. Fall is a great time to make use of seasonal produce like squash, root vegetables, and dried fruits. You can dehydrate your own meals, saving both money and plastic waste. Store them in reusable containers like silicone bags or beeswax wraps.
Pack snacks like trail mix, granola, or homemade energy bars in reusable bags. For warm drinks, bring a thermos or insulated bottle for hot tea or coffee—this eliminates the need for single-use coffee pods or instant coffee packets. And if you plan to have a campfire, aluminum foil-wrapped potatoes or veggies make for an easy, waste-free dinner.
Water: Stay Hydrated Without Plastic
Carrying enough water can be challenging in fall, especially if you’re headed to remote areas where water sources may freeze. Rather than relying on plastic bottles, pack a reusable water filter or purifier. Stainless steel or collapsible bottles work well for shorter trips, while soft-sided reservoirs are great for backpacking since they take up minimal space when empty.
For colder weather, consider insulated water bottles to keep water from freezing overnight. In car camping situations, bring larger reusable containers for both drinking water and cooking to avoid the need for disposable plastic jugs.
Bathroom & Hygiene: Nature-Friendly Solutions
While practising zero-waste camping, you can reduce waste even in your hygiene routine. For bathroom needs, a small trowel and a well-dug cathole are your best bet for responsible waste disposal. If you use toilet paper, choose non-perfumed, biodegradable options and pack it out in a sealable bag, or bury it in the cathole if regulations permit. Better yet, use natural alternatives like smooth stones or moss—just be sure they are plentiful in the area.
Menstrual products like a reusable menstrual cup or period underwear are essential zero-waste items. For other hygiene needs, bamboo toothbrushes and small amounts of biodegradable soap (used sparingly and at least 200 feet from water sources) can cut down on plastic waste. Consider carrying a small microfiber towel or bandana for multi-purpose use, from drying off after a quick dip in a stream to wiping down gear.
Camping Gear: Go Reusable
Fall camping often means extra gear, but that doesn’t mean you need to rely on disposable products. Stainless steel cookware, reusable utensils, and refillable propane tanks are all great investments. Instead of plastic plates or cups, bring lightweight metal alternatives or sturdy dishware from home. A spork can replace single-use cutlery, and collapsible silicone bowls take up minimal space in your pack.
When shopping for new gear, look for items made from recycled materials or those that prioritize sustainability in their production. And don’t forget to take care of your existing gear—dry out your tent thoroughly after every trip and repair any small holes or tears to extend its life.
Managing Pet Waste: Leave No Trace with Your Dog
Fall is a perfect time to bring your furry friend along, but don’t forget to manage their waste responsibly. Bring biodegradable dog waste bags and pack them out. In areas where it’s allowed, you can bury your dog’s waste just like human waste, ensuring you leave no trace on the trail.
Transportation: Get There Sustainably
Your carbon footprint starts before you even reach the campsite. If possible, choose a nearby destination to reduce fuel consumption. Carpooling with friends or taking public transport, if available, can also help lower emissions. For the ultimate eco-friendly adventure, consider biking to the trailhead, using a bike trailer to haul your gear.
Fall-Specific Tips
With shorter daylight hours in fall, bring solar-powered or rechargeable headlamps and lanterns to avoid relying on disposable batteries. Dress in layers to manage the fluctuating temperatures without needing disposable hand warmers or other temporary solutions. Also, as leaves fall, be mindful of fire risks—use only designated fire rings and pack a collapsible camp stove to minimize your impact.
Leave No Trace, No Matter the Season
Zero-waste camping is a commitment to protecting the wilderness we love. By making small changes in how we pack, eat, and manage our waste, we can enjoy fall camping while leaving no trace behind. The extra effort you put into reducing waste not only helps the environment but also deepens your connection to nature, reminding you of the importance of preserving it for future generations. So as you gear up for your next fall adventure, remember—nature has everything you need, as long as you leave it as you found it.
Leave a Reply