I'm new to kayaking and need some help in a critical area. When nature calls and there is no opportunity to land what does one do? We'll keep it simple and limit this request to fluids only please.

Stephanie

Since urine is very close to seawater in composition, many saltwater paddlers just pee in their boats and rinse out later. Probably OK for fresh water paddlers, too. Some males pee into bottles they carry for the purpose. Some just grin and bear it. Difficulties can arise during the cold-water season, and often there is again nothing to do but grin and bear it (hold it in) until you can land.

There is a device that works for both girls and boys and it's pretty simple, but I would think it might be pretty challenging for the girls. In any case, a thoughtful float plan might be the best solution.

Kayaking should be a pleasant activity; I can't think of anything that would ruin my day as much as turning my cockpit into a crapper. I am blessed to be able to do almost all of my paddling on the mighty Columbia River where we have endless sandy beaches to land on and lots of trees and bushes. There is even one particular little island that I have dubbed, Dump Island. I warn people to watch where they step if they decide to visit it.

Maybe we can buy some of those NASA diapers or perhaps depends brand would hold up ? :-)

Actually I think a lot of this is prep, try not to go too crazy with the water before the trip, eat things that will aid in digestion, etc..

Stephanie,
For starters do you paddle in a cold water area where you are wearing either a wet or dry suit. Having to dress for immersion limits the options you might have.

Michael

Males
- water bottle
- bull kelp (cut, use, than throw back over)

Females
- Pot (small cooking pot... lift up a bit, place underneath, sit, pee, remove)
- a good friend to brace boat while one hangs over the edge.
- paddle float outrigger, and lean over
- a funnel thing... made for women... I forget what they are called

Best plan is to find a beach.
But having paddled for 6-8hrs at a stretch many times, with no options for landing, some times you gotta do what you gotta do.

At least one brand is called a "lady j"... female troops in the field used to be very proud of the ones they had. I know they work well and reliably but it's outside my general area.

I've paddled for some very long extended periods and have found that I just don't have to go... until I get about ten minutes from my destination. I think that over time, you just condition yourself to "hold it" until you're able to go. The remarkable thing about this is that I continue to drink fluids the whole time to stay hydrated -- but you do tend to sweat out a lot of liquid, even if perspiration is not visible.

My wife is an operating nurse and she says that it is very rare that anyone leaves the OR to use the washroom during an operation -- and sometimes they last for hours. She also finds that you get conditioned to hold it until you have a break -- if you do feel the need, after a short while the urge dissipates and you don't think about it.

I have however, on a couple of occasions, assisted (or been assisted by) another paddler to "do the business" by rafting up and "hanging it over the side". This method can work for men or women -- but you best not be shy.

My daughter uses a funnel device called a "Freshette" (generically referred to as a FUD -- Female Urinary Device) -- she uses this mostly because she has a drysuit without a drop seat (it has a front relief zipper). She's not had to use it yet on the water but finds it quite convenient when off the water as she doesn't have to remove her drysuit.

If you're in Canada a device is available at Mountain Equipment Coop called the P-Mate.

Has anyone used the bag with a dry powder in it? Its supposed to turn to a gel when wetted. It can then be stored without concern for spillage.

Used to buy them for our utility workers when I was a government buyer.

Just wondered if they worked or would be considered an option to use in conjuction with the funnel.

Wow... remind me to not become a utility worker.

I know the military has been looked at a host of ideas to deal with 'waste' during long distance flights/trips. The bags mentioned above are of several different brands, and are pretty effective. It's the same principle as clumping kitty litter. The only downside I can think of is keeping the pack dry prior to use, and the difficulties dealing with the pack during use.
It might be a pretty good option for some people.

Here's a link to the Pee Mate at Mountain Equip. Co-Op in Canada

Pee Mate
http://www.mec.ca/Products/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442622049&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302861413&bmUID=1275418448359

Noun, 1. bodily function - an organic process that takes place in the body; "respiratory activity". bodily process, body process, activity.

drinks tons before you go, pee before you go, splash yourself so you don't overheat, go ahead and drink in the boat. Use the funnel. You are now an extremely attractive female because you've got what it takes, its fun, you "own" your boat like no bodies business. Shoot the funnel into a designated bottle. You're large incharge and at home in your boat. Whattayoo looking at?