Treks immerse you body and soul in a wild region, far from any infrastructure, accessible only on foot. Each evening, the bivvy — pitched in the heart of nature or with a local host — marks the perfect end to a day's walking, with no break in the sensations you've gathered along the way. You dream of a hot shower or clean clothes: here are some tips to help you respect our natural environment.
1- Plan your route and stick to existing trails
When planning your trek, choose official routes and stick to established trails. Avoid creating new paths that could damage vegetation and disturb local wildlife. Respecting local rules and regulations is essential to preserving natural ecosystems.
2- Responsible camping
Choose designated camping areas. Follow local rules regarding campfires and make sure fires are completely extinguished after use. Avoid damaging trees and plants by cutting branches or digging unnecessary holes.
3- Manage your waste
Bring a rubbish bag to carry all your waste with you. Leave no litter on trails or in walking areas. If you come across waste left by other hikers, consider picking it up and taking it with you. Also minimise packaging by opting for reusable food and products.
4- Use water responsibly
Water is a precious resource in the outdoors, so use it with care. Avoid wasting it and be mindful of how much you actually need. Use filters or purification tablets to treat water from natural sources rather than buying bottled water, which generates plastic waste.
5- Respect wildlife and flora
Observe animals from a distance and do not disturb them. Do not feed wild animals, as this disrupts their natural behaviour and can lead to dependency on humans. Do not pick flowers or plants, and do not disturb their natural habitat.
Tips:
Marseille-style soap is ideal, as it's versatile (for washing yourself and your clothes). It's less polluting and easier to rinse off than shower gel, and reduces the risk of leaking inside your bag.
A small foldable basin made from waterproof fabric. It will let you wash yourself and rinse a few items of clothing (t-shirt, underwear, socks…) in any situation.
A small bottle of shampoo will complete your wash kit, as washing your hair with soap and cold water is no easy task.
Synthetic fabric towels that dry very quickly, or small non-woven paper towels that can be burnt after use — this avoids the classic flannel that dries poorly and picks up odours over the days. Alternatively, pack some wet wipes that can be burnt after use.
CimAlp recommends its Active Dry clothing range, made with chitin — a natural biological molecule that repels mosquitoes and wicks away perspiration. Also worth considering is its merino wool range: a material that prevents unpleasant odours, provides insulation, doesn't itch against the skin, and wicks away moisture.
Preserving nature is a collective responsibility. By following these simple but important tips, you can minimise your impact on the environment and help protect the natural landscapes you explore. Together, we can preserve these natural wonders for future generations.
