This is an obvious one, but it does merit some discussion. Visit any drug store or supermarket these days and you’ll see a growing number of options for travel toiletries. However, your toiletry kit can take up a lot of precious space in your backpack if you pack a separate bottle for every conceivable soap. Instead, consider a highly concentrated multipurpose soap like Dr. Bronner’s, which can be used to wash your hands, face, body, hair, clothes, and dishes! It’s organic and biodegradable, so it’s good for you and the earth.
Don’t forget other personal care items such as glasses or contacts, sunscreen, lip balm, a travel-sized comb or brush, a small stick of deodorant, a collapsible travel toothbrush and small tube of toothpaste, a small quick-drying camp towel, a small travel pack of toilet paper, and some wet wipes.
Think less is more. You won’t be entering any beauty pageants while backpacking, you just need to be clean enough to stay healthy and comfortable. If you don’t have a water source, wet wipe “baths” are surprisingly refreshing and can keep you smelling relatively fresh.