I just recently returned from experiencing the amazing Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory.

It blows my mind that fellow hikers, who I suspect have come to experience the colour, the landscape, and the beauty of this desert environment, can leave these 3 ‘T’s behind. Nothing spoils a campsite, a trail or a lofty sunset spot than coming across one of these invasive ‘T’ things. Please don’t allow them to spread.

If you pick up and remove the following ‘T’s from the environment, you will be blessed by fellow hikers. Thank you.

Toothpaste

Campsites abound with weird albino lichen spots that detract from the natural experience.  Some suggestions to prevent the scurge spreading…

• Wash and rinse your mouth after each meal and snack with plain water
• Brush your teeth once a day. Not brushing two or three times for the short duration of your hike won’t set back the longevity of your teeth. Technique. Moisten your mouth with a very light smear of toothpaste. Focus on mechanical cleaning up and down movements for 2 mins and swallow. Less toothpaste, less to cary, less to swallow.
• Use a sugar-free chewing gum for dental protection. These benefit dental health by increasing saliva production, which washes away food particles and neutralises acids. Look for gum with key ingredients like xylitol, which can further inhibit bacteria. Some functional gums also contain remineralising agents to strengthen your enamel.

Tissues/Toilet paper

Each shelter and designated campsite on the Larapinta Trail features water tanks and a long-drop toilet. Ideally, regulate your bowel movements when visiting, passing through or staying at these campsites. If you do get caught between shelters, head off-trail with your toilet paper/wipe AND a plastic bag. Do your deed away from any water source, in a hole, and cover it over with sizable rocks. Then, put your TP/wipe into a plastic bag to carry out. The same applies to tissues when you blow your nose. Seems basic, but this is rubbish. Pack it out, please.

Talking with ladies on the trail illuminated my understanding that the tissue paper just visible off the trail was usually left after urination. The solution is to use a homemade or commercial bush cloth. Waterproof on one side (to keep your hands clean) and absorbent on the other to wipe with after weeing. Often infused with silver to inhibit bacterial growth, they are washable, reusable, odourless and durable.

Teabags

For many, a cup of something marks the end of the day’s adventures or the start of a new day’s challenges.  For others, a Lipton’s or similar left on the ground represents the highest level of littering in nature. Please refrain from degrading our environment or the experience of others by not disposing of all the waste you’ve brought in, including tea bags and coffee grounds.