Cat holes and WAG bags are two Leave No Trace ways to deal with human waste. A cat hole buries solid waste in soil 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water; a WAG bag is a sealed kit you use and pack out. Cat holes work where soil allows; WAG bags are required where burying is banned.
| Aspect | Cat Hole | WAG Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Bury in a dug hole | Pack it out in a sealed bag |
| Where it works | Forest/soil, 200 ft from water | Deserts, alpine, rivers, high-use |
| Leaves waste | Buried on site | Carried out |
| Effort | Dig and bury | Use and seal |
| Required where | Default in most backcountry | Burying is banned or impractical |
Use a cat hole when…
- There's adequate soil to dig
- You're 200 ft from water, trail, and camp
- Burying is permitted
Use a WAG bag when…
- You're in desert, alpine, or river corridors
- Burying is banned in the area
- You're in a high-use zone
Verdict
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a cat hole and a WAG bag?
A cat hole buries solid human waste in the soil; a WAG bag is a chemical-treated kit you use and carry out. Cat holes suit areas with adequate soil and distance from water; WAG bags are for places where burying is banned or won't work.
How deep should a cat hole be?
Six to eight inches deep and four to six inches wide, dug at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) from water, trails, and camp. Fill and disguise it afterward, and pack out toilet paper or bury it where local rules allow.
Where are WAG bags required?
Typically in deserts, alpine zones above treeline, narrow river corridors, popular high-use areas, and on some climbing routes — anywhere the soil, fragility, or crowding makes burying waste inappropriate. Check the area's regulations before you go.
Related: Cat Hole · WAG Bag · Leave No Trace · Backpacking