Long car trips can feel endless, and sometimes the urge to use the restroom comes at the most inconvenient moment. Depending on your preparation, there are several effective ways to relieve yourself while driving.
How to Relieve Yourself in a Car
Step 1. Prepare a special urination device.
Before embarking on your trip, be sure to purchase and bring along a urination device. Disposable options are the most convenient to use. If you're trying these devices for the first time, it's best to get a few different types just in case. In a pinch, a bottle can also work.
- Stores offer a wide variety of devices suitable for both men and women.
- If you prefer not to spend money, you can create a simple device at home using materials you have on hand. For example, men often use empty milk cartons, but these can be bulky and take up space in the car.
- Wide-mouthed water or juice bottles can also be convenient for women.
Step 2. Stock up on hygiene supplies.
Don’t forget to bring hygiene supplies to clean your hands after relieving yourself. This is important since you’ll be handling the steering wheel again. Hand sanitizers, baby wipes, or paper towels moistened with soapy water will work well.
- Hand sanitizers and wipes are easily found at any supermarket or pharmacy. To save money, consider bringing travel-sized packages.
- To make moist soapy towels, wet a dry paper towel under running water, add a drop of soap, and rub until it lathers. Then wring out the excess water and fold the towel.
Step 3. Ensure your supplies are within reach.
Before your trip, check that your supplies are easily accessible. They should be in a location where you can quickly find them if needed.
- Store all necessary items in the glove compartment, door pocket, or on the passenger seat.
Step 4. Make a stop.
When you feel the urge, pull over in a safe location. This could be the shoulder of the road, a parking lot, or another area away from active traffic. For safety, do not park right next to a busy highway. Do not use your urination device while driving.
Step 5. Use the special device.
Once stopped, retrieve your device, remove the cap (if it has one), and tilt it at a 45-degree angle. Aim for the center and downwards.
- If your device has a cap, make sure to close it after use.
Step 6. Clean your hands with hygiene supplies.
After using the device, be sure to wash your hands with the hygiene supplies you brought. If there’s a trash can nearby, dispose of the used device. If there’s no trash can, set it aside, but not too far away so it doesn’t obstruct you.
- Do not throw the device out of the car window, as this could lead to fines for littering on the roadside.
Step 7. Continue your journey.
Now you can comfortably continue your trip, feeling much better. Remember to drink enough water, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and reduce your concentration on the road.
How to Relieve Yourself Outside the Car
Step 1. Prepare hygiene supplies.
Always bring hygiene supplies with you. This will help you stay clean after using the restroom, no matter where you are. Hand sanitizers, wipes, or paper towels are great options.
- You can purchase small packs of sanitizers and wipes at pharmacies or supermarkets.
Step 2. Find a safe place to stop.
As soon as you feel the need, pull over in a secluded area. Make sure you are away from busy traffic, and that no one can see you.
Step 3. Park the car.
Get out of the car and look around to ensure no one is nearby. If someone is close, it’s better to find another spot to relieve yourself.
Step 4. Find a private spot.
If you’re in a remote area, walk a little away from the car to find a private spot. This could be behind a tree, a bush, or in tall grass.
- Women should pull their panties down to their ankles and relieve themselves near a tree.
- If there’s no suitable spot, you can stand behind the passenger door and relieve yourself, facing away from the road.
Step 5. Put your underwear back on and return to the car.
After finishing, don’t forget to wipe and return to the car. Leave used wipes in place, as they will decompose over time. Use hand sanitizer before getting back behind the wheel.
Step 6. Keep moving.
Continue on your way, making sure to drink enough water to avoid dehydration, which can lead to fatigue while driving.
Stop at a Rest Area
Step 1. Prepare hygiene supplies.
Always carry hygiene supplies in case the rest area lacks clean water and soap. Hand sanitizers and baby wipes can be your lifesavers.
Step 2. Find the nearest rest area.
When needed, look for the nearest rest area by following the blue road signs. They usually indicate how many kilometers remain until the location.
- Install an app on your phone that helps you find nearby rest areas to avoid unexpected situations.
Step 3. Stop at the rest area.
When you reach the rest area, park and exit the car. Take a walk to stretch your legs, snap some photos if the views are beautiful, or head straight to the restroom.
Step 4. Use the restroom at the rest area.
Every rest area has restroom facilities with toilets and sinks. If the facility is clean, you can take a moment to rest before continuing your journey.
- If the restroom looks unbearably dirty, you can still use it, but stand on the toilet to avoid contact with the seat.
Step 5. Wash your hands.
If the restroom has water and soap, be sure to wash your hands. If not, use the hygiene supplies you brought with you.
Step 6. Back on the road!
Get back on the road, remembering to keep an eye on your hydration levels. Dehydration can cause fatigue, which is extremely dangerous while driving.
