How to Safely Carry Used Dog Poop Bags on Long Hikes with No Trash Cans
Nothing spoils the serene beauty of a deep-woods hike quite like the sight of a brightly colored plastic bag sitting on the side of a trail. We’ve all seen them, and as dog owners, we understand the initial impulse: "I’ll just leave this here and pick it up on my way back." But plans change, bags get forgotten, and wildlife can scatter the contents.
Because plastic dog bags do not biodegrade quickly—and dog waste introduces non-native bacteria and nitrogen into wild ecosystems—the golden rule of the trail is Leave No Trace. If your dog packs it in, you have to pack it out.
However, trekking for miles with a squishy, smelly bag dangling from your hand or swinging from your wrist can quickly drain the joy out of an outdoor adventure. Fortunately, experienced hikers have developed several highly effective, odor-free, and hands-free strategies to manage used dog poop bags on long trail days.
The Dedicated Poop Tube
One of the most popular DIY solutions among long-distance backpackers is a hard-sided "poop tube." You can construct one cheaply using a length of lightweight PVC pipe capped at both ends, or simply repurpose a wide-mouth, airtight container. An old Nalgene water bottle, a large plastic peanut butter jar, or a screw-top supplement container all work perfectly.
The secret to this method is the rigid, airtight seal. You drop the tied poop bag inside, screw the lid down tight, and the odor is completely trapped. Because the container is hard-sided, you don’t have to worry about the bag getting crushed or punctured inside your backpack. You can confidently stash the container in a side pocket or clip it to the exterior of your gear using a carabiner.
Commercial Odor-Proof Pouches
If you prefer a ready-made solution, the pet industry has stepped up with specialized gear. Brands manufacture odor-locking pouches specifically designed for this dilemma. These pouches typically use a combination of heavy-duty, puncture-resistant materials, thick zippers, and charcoal-activated liners that chemically neutralize bad smells.
Many of these commercial bags feature built-in straps or clips that attach directly to your dog’s harness or your backpack’s hip belt. They look just like standard hiking accessory pouches, meaning your pack stays organized and completely odor-free, even on hot summer afternoons.
Modifying Your Dog’s Harness
If your dog is large enough and healthy enough to wear a small canine backpack, they can carry their own waste. Dogs generally love having a "job" on the trail, and carrying their wrapped deposits is a fair contribution to the team effort.
When using a dog pack, always double-bag the waste to prevent accidental leaks onto their gear. It is also wise to dedicate one specific side pocket exclusively to the used bags, keeping it separate from their water bowl or extra treats. Ensure the weight is evenly balanced on both sides of the harness so your dog can walk comfortably.
Double-Bagging with Mylar or Ziplocs
If you want to keep things minimalist and lightweight, a heavy-duty freezer bag or a resealable Mylar pouch is an excellent fallback. Mylar is particularly effective because it acts as a highly efficient vapor barrier, blocking smells much better than standard polythene bags.
To use this method safely, wrap the waste in a standard dog bag, tie it securely, and then place it inside the heavy-duty zip bag. To prevent a catastrophic rupture inside your backpack, wrap the zip bag in an old newspaper or slide it into an exterior mesh pocket away from sharp items like keys or trekking poles.
Final Trail Etiquette
Whichever method you choose, a few universal tips will make the process easier. Always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer easily accessible on your pack. Consider using biodegradable dog bags, but remember that they still need to go into a proper trash receptacle at the trailhead—never bury plastic bags, even if they claim to be compostable.
By preparing for the reality of trail waste before you lace up your boots, you can protect the wilderness, keep your hands free, and enjoy a completely stink-free adventure with your four-legged companion.