(picture from the pStyle website)
See that little black pouch on the backpack? It’s about to change your life.
A few years ago, I was on the WWHS beginner backpacking trip when I saw Angelique, one of the co-founders, on the side of the trail staring off into the woods. I’m not sure if I was curious as to what she was looking at or if I just wanted any excuse to rest, but I walked over and asked what she was looking at.
“Oh, I’m just peeing!” She said, as she dipped her head downward.
I was so embarrassed . . . and then really confused! She was standing and her pants were up! She laughed and proudly showed me the pStyle, exclaiming how it was so easy and amazing. I didn’t know if it would work for me, but what I did know was that I hated peeing with my butt in the wind for anyone to see.
When I peed outside, I was always stressed from trying to hurry, worried about peeing on my shoes, or concerned with keeping my balance and staying hidden.
Needless to say, when I got home, I immediately bought one and tried it. Since then, it has been on every backpacking, hiking, and day trip I take.
Finding a discreet and comfortable spot to pee can be complicated for women. So let me tell you what I’ve told just about every woman who hikes with me — even if you have tried and failed with other peeing devices, PLEASE try the pStyle! (Use code WINE10 for 10% off.)
You’ll never have to squat or hide behind bushes to pee again!
What is the pStyle?
The pStyle is a simple funnel designed to allow women to urinate while standing up. It is typically made of medical-grade silicone or plastic, making it easy to clean and reuse.
The Benefits of Using the pStyle for Hiking
- Convenience: One of the most significant advantages of thepPStyle is its convenience. No more searching for a secluded spot or struggling to squat in uncomfortable positions. With the pStyle, women can discreetly and efficiently relieve themselves while standing up, saving time and hassle on the trail.
- Hygiene: Hygiene is crucial, especially when spending extended periods in the wilderness. The pStyle helps maintain hygiene by minimizing contact with potentially unsanitary surfaces. This ensures a more comfortable hiking experience.
- Privacy & Safety: Privacy can be hard to come by on busy hiking trails. The pStyle let’s you pee discreetly while standing, without exposing yourself to others.
- Accessibility: For women with physical limitations, squatting or crouching may not be feasible. The pStyle allows women to urinate comfortably and independently, regardless of their mobility level.
Tips for Using the PStyle
While the pStyle is straightforward to use, it may take some practice to master. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of this innovative device:
- Practice at home: Before hitting the trail, take some time to practice using the pStyle in your own home. This will help you build confidence in using it. Some women practice in the shower, and some practice in the toilet or backyard.
- Buy the carrying pouch: The pStyle pouches are made from organic cotton fabric. The fabric is very breathable, which allows the pStyle to air out and never get stinky. The pouch comes with a carabiner, so you can conveniently hang it off of your pack.
- Clean thoroughly: After each use, wash the pStyle with water and mild soap. Allow it to air dry before storing it in a clean, dry place.
- Take it everywhere with you! The pStye isn’t just for hiking and backpacking. It’s perfect for anytime you won’t be near a bathroom. I can’t tell you how many times it’s come in handy on road trips when there’s long stretches between rest stops.
Looking for other bathroom product favorites? Check out ambassador Amanda’s blog post, “When Nature Calls in Nature.”
