How To Poop While You Travel

I get it. This isn’t the most fun topic. But if you’ve ever struggled with going poop while you travel, you know this is absolutely a necessary topic. If you know, you know! Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Europe or lounging on a Mediterranean beach, your body doesn’t take a vacation when it comes to having to use the bathroom.

Woman sitting on a toilet reading a book.
Photo Credit: Letícia Rodrigues /Pexels.

Please note: This is not medical advice. I am not a medical professional. These tips and suggestions are based on my personal experience. Please speak with a doctor before trying anything in this blog post. These are suggestions found at the sources linked at the end of this article.

Let’s dive into the art of pooping while traveling, covering everything from battling constipation and diarrhea to finding those elusive private bathrooms across Europe. I’ll keep it somewhat tactful (we’re talking about pooping, after all) lighthearted, factual, and, most importantly, helpful.

The Traveler’s Tummy: Constipation and Diarrhea

Travel Constipation

Travel constipation is a common issue, often caused by changes in routine, diet, and decreased physical activity. To keep things moving:

  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water throughout your trip. Dehydration can harden poop, making it hard for your body to pass.
  • Fiber Up: Incorporate fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet. Packing snacks such as prunes or dried kiwis can be beneficial, as they are natural laxatives.
  • Move It: Regular physical activity stimulates digestion. Even a brisk walk can help get things “moving”.

Travel Diarrhea

On the flip side, new cuisines and travel stress can lead to the dreaded traveler’s diarrhea. To manage this:

  • Stay Hydrated: Replenish lost fluids with water.
  • Eat Wisely: Opt for bland, binding foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) until you feel better.
  • Medicate if Needed: Over-the-counter anti-diarrheals can provide relief, but use them sparingly and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

The Quest For The Perfect Loo: Finding Private Bathrooms In Europe

Europe offers a variety of restroom experiences, from the charming to the challenging. To find your throne away from home:

  • Cafés and Restaurants: Patronizing a café not only gets you a delightful espresso but also access to their facilities. It’s a win-win! Just be aware, that no matter how bad you have to go, you will have to buy something first. They do not let you use their restrooms just because you really “gotta go.”
  • Public Restrooms: Cities like Paris and London have public toilets, though they may require a small fee. (Typically 1 euro)
  • Shopping Centers and Department Stores: These often have clean, accessible restrooms. Plus, you can indulge in some retail therapy.
  • Hotels: Larger hotels usually have lobby restrooms. A confident stride and a polite nod can often grant you access without question.
  • Museums and Galleries: Even if you’re not in the mood for art, these cultural havens offer restroom facilities. The downside? You have to buy a ticket which is often done online, and that means you’ll have a window of time to enter, which is sometimes a ways off. So this is not your fastest option.
Woman in white shirt sitting on a toilet while she reads on her phone.
Photo Credit: Miriam Alonso/Pexels.

The Art of Discretion: Pooping Without Offending

When you have to share a bathroom with others, having to poop can get a bit embarrassing. But there are things you can do.

  • Courtesy Flush: A mid-poop flush (or immediately after, before you wipe) can minimize odors and maintain harmony with fellow bathroom users.
  • Air Fresheners: Travel-sized sprays or even a quick spritz of perfume can work wonders.
  • Noise Control: A well-timed cough or flush can help mask any unintended sounds.
  • Toilet Drops: There are drops you can put into the toilet before you sit down that will help eliminate odors considerably.

Embracing The Squat: Toileting Positions

In some parts of Europe, you might encounter squat toilets. While they can be intimidating, they offer a natural position for elimination. To use them:

  • Positioning: Place your feet on either side of the toilet, squat down, and maintain your balance.
  • Relax: Take deep breaths and let gravity assist.

Hygiene On The Go: Staying Fresh

  • Hand Sanitizer: Not all restrooms are equipped with soap. A trusty hand sanitizer is your best friend.
  • Toilet Paper: Some restrooms, especially in remote areas, might be BYOTP (Bring Your Own Toilet Paper). Pack accordingly.
  • Wet Wipes: For that extra clean feeling, travel-sized wet wipes can be a game-changer.
  • Travel Tissue: These are those little travel-size packets that you mom or grandma always carried around. They are great to have on hand for any number of emergencies.

Mind Over Matter: Relaxation Techniques

Travel can be stressful, and stress affects digestion. To keep calm and carry on:

  • Deep Breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to relax your body and mind.
  • Routine: Try to maintain regular eating and sleeping schedules to keep your digestive system on schedule.

When In Rome… Adapting To Local Customs

Different countries have different bathroom etiquette. For instance:

  • Payment: In some places, using public restrooms requires a small fee. Keep some change handy.
  • Toilet Types: Familiarize yourself with bidets, pull-chain flushes, or the absence of toilet seats. It’s all part of the adventure!

Emergency Preparedness: When Nature Calls Unexpectedly

Sometimes, despite all precautions, emergencies happen:

  • Know the Lingo: Learn how to ask for the bathroom in the local language.
  • Plan Your Route: When exploring, take note of potential restroom stops.
  • Stay Calm: Panicking can make things worse. Take deep breaths and focus on finding a solution.

Traveling is about embracing new experiences, but you don’t want to get stuck in a bad potty situation in the process. With a bit or research and planning, a sense of humor, and a relaxed attitude, you’ll navigate your travels with ease and comfort.

Sources:

Tiffany McCauley

Author: Tiffany McCauley

Title: Food and Travel Journalist

Expertise: Food, cooking, travel

Bio:

Tiffany McCauley is a nationally syndicated journalist and an award-winning cookbook author and food blogger. She has been featured on MSN, Huffington Post, Country Living Magazine, HealthLine, Redbook, and many more. She writes about food and travel.

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