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Whether you are camping, hiking, climbing or fishing, boating or just enjoying the outdoors, there are some common pieces of gear that everyone should carry. Water, food, waterproof matches and a small flashlight are all important, but there is one piece of vital equipment that most people take for granted. Trash bags can prevent disasters and make life much easier.
Let’s be clear, though. For outdoor use, the trash bags to take along are the extra-large lawn and leaf bags. These heavy bags have the durability that is needed to survive the abuse they’ll be subjected to. Just in case you’ve never considered the multiple use potential of trash bags, read on:
Make an emergency poncho with a trash bag. Although it may get a little steamy under the plastic, in an emergency it beats the alternative of hypothermia. If you are in a light rain and want to keep the water off your body, simply tear a hole for your head and stick it on through. If you need to maneuver around you can tear out holes for your arms. In a heavy rain you can tear out a smaller hole just for your face (don’t ever put a sealed plastic bag over your head).
Make a moisture barrier for your shelter. If you are worried about rain or moisture coming through the roof of your tent or other lodging, you can use the bag to fortify your roof. Simply cut the bag so it forms a large sheet and position it accordingly. If the ground is wet you can use the bag as a drop cloth to keep moisture out of your bedding. If the bag isn't long enough, cut the seams so it makes a long sheet.
Use a trash bag to make an emergency coat. The main secret to staying warm when it’s chilly outside is wearing layers. If you are down to your last layer and still shivering, you can use your trash bag to create another layer. Make a hole for your head and two for your arms. Keep in mind it will work better if you keep your arms close to your body so if you can't get by with your arms in the bag, even better. Tuck the open end of the bag into your pants.
Use one as a make shift food bag. If you tie the bag with a cord, you can suspend your makeshift food bag out of the reach of both small and large critters. The plastic will mask most odors, but because the bag lacks a seal, it won't be perfect. Also make sure that smaller critters can't drop down onto the bag and chew through the plastic.
And here you thought trash bags were only good for trash!
Published 04/04/07
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