What Does "Leave No Trace" Mean?

Rule number one for hikers, campers, and back packers is "leave no trace." You may have heard it and are wondering, "what is the meaning of leave no trace?"

As someone who is passionate about outdoor adventures and environmentalism, I'm here to answer that question.

Leave no trace meaning

The phrase simply means to leave no trace that anyone has been there. This includes picking up your trash, properly disposing of waste, and not harming the environment, disturbing wild animals, or taking anything you find.

As the saying goes, "Leave only footprints, take only pictures."

Affiliate disclosure: I've included a few useful products in this article. If you purchase them I may get a small commission.

7 principles of "leave no trace"

Plan ahead and prepare 

• Bring a bag for trash

• Have a plan for waste disposal

• Learn the area so you know where to go and don't stray from the trail

• Go when there are fewer people to minimize crowding and impact

  
  

Travel and camp on durable surfaces 

• Stay on established campgrounds and trails

• Don't camp on the beach

  
  

Dispose of waste properly 

• For going #2, you should have a "poop kit." This includes a trough, hand sanitizer, and a plastic bag for toilet paper disposal

• Make sure to dig a hole at least 6 inches deep. Be at least 200 feet from a water source, campsite, or hiking trail

• Squat over the cat hole and do your business

• Bury the waste by filling the hole with the dirt you dug up, then cover the hole with leaves and sticks

• Pack out your TP into a ziploc bag

• You can use a pee cloth for #1

Find this pee cloth on Amazon for $12.99.

Trough with a carabiner for $11.99.

Leave what you find 

• Don't take or stack rocks

• Don't pick plants

• Do not disturb historical artifacts

Minimize campfire impact 

• Learn the local rules about campfires

• Use a stove for cooking instead of a campfire when possible.

• If you build a fire, be sure to thoroughly douse it in water when you're done

• Use a fire ring

• Keep the fire small

• No fires during a drought

Use a mini camping stove like this one to minimize fire use and help prevent wildfires.

Respect wildlife.

• Do not touch animals

• Do not feed animals

• Do not harass animals

• Keep your distance from animals

  
  

Be considerate of other visitors 

• Don't play loud music

• Don't camp too close to others

• Don't leave messes

• Avoid smoking

• Do not shout

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Now that you know one of the most important backpacking rules, you’re ready to hit the trail, explore, and enjoy your adventures responsibly!

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Have a magical day!

About the author

Shello! My name is Mermaid Liv, a professional mermaid and content creator. I share my love of mermaiding through this blog, along with my Youtube channel.

If you've never heard of it before, mermaiding is a hobby, profession, and sport that involves wearing mermaid tails made for swimming.

I began making tails in 2013 and have continued my mermaid journey, starting my Youtube channel, working at a mermaid festival, performing at gigs, and being featured in the Netflix Docu Series MerPeople.

Follow me on Instagram for mermaid photos and videos: @the_real_mermaid_liv and be *shore* to check out my Youtube channel.