I recently embarked on a month-long backpacking trip through the Rockies, and knowing restroom access would be limited, I invested in a portable toilet. My research led me to several options, but ultimately, I chose the GoNature 2.0. I was initially hesitant about the convenience and hygiene, but I found it surprisingly easy to use and maintain. The lightweight design made it easy to pack, and the overall experience exceeded my expectations. It made my camping and hiking trips so much more enjoyable!
Choosing the Right Toilet⁚ My Research and Decision
Choosing the right portable toilet felt like a daunting task initially. I spent weeks researching various options, reading countless reviews, and comparing features. My primary concerns were weight, ease of use, waste capacity, and, of course, hygiene. I considered several brands⁚ the popular “Camper’s Choice,” the seemingly more durable “TrekMate 5000,” and the eco-friendly “Nature’s Call.” Each had its pros and cons. The Camper’s Choice was lightweight but had a smaller capacity than I desired for longer trips. The TrekMate 5000 was robust but significantly heavier, impacting my pack weight considerably. Nature’s Call, while environmentally conscious, seemed a little too complex for my needs, requiring more setup and maintenance. Ultimately, I settled on the GoNature 2.0. Its weight was manageable, the reviews praised its ease of use and cleaning, and the waste capacity was perfect for my planned three-week trip. The price point was also competitive, considering the features offered. I meticulously compared specifications, focusing on user-friendliness and long-term reliability. I even watched numerous YouTube videos demonstrating setup and usage. The decision wasn’t easy, but after careful consideration, I felt confident that the GoNature 2.0 would meet my needs, offering a balance between portability, convenience, and hygiene. It was a significant investment, but I believed it would prove invaluable during my upcoming adventure.
Setting Up and Using the GoNature 2.0
Setting up the GoNature 2.0 was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions were clear and concise, and the entire process took less than five minutes. First, I unfolded the toilet seat and secured it to the base. Then, I inserted the waste bag – a simple, yet effective design. The bag itself is surprisingly sturdy and leak-proof. The entire unit is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry even when fully assembled. Using the toilet was just as simple. It felt surprisingly stable and comfortable, even on uneven terrain. The height was perfect for my needs, avoiding any awkward crouching or bending. I appreciated the thoughtful design elements, like the built-in handles for easy carrying and the secure closure system for the waste bag. The overall experience was far more pleasant than I anticipated. I was pleasantly surprised by how much more comfortable and private it was compared to improvising in the wilderness. There was no fumbling or awkward positioning. The GoNature 2.0 provided a sense of normalcy and dignity, even in the most remote locations. I even used it in my tent during a particularly rainy night, and it remained stable and leak-free. The ease of use and the comfort it provided significantly enhanced my camping experience, allowing me to focus on enjoying nature without worrying about finding a suitable restroom. Cleaning was a breeze, simply replacing the waste bag after each use. I was very impressed with the overall design and functionality of the GoNature 2.0.
Waste Disposal⁚ A Surprisingly Simple Process
I was initially apprehensive about the waste disposal aspect, picturing a messy and complicated process. However, my concerns proved unfounded. The GoNature 2.0 made waste disposal remarkably simple. After each use, I simply tied the filled waste bag using the provided ties. The bags are designed to be incredibly strong and leak-proof, preventing any spills or unpleasant odors. This was a key feature for me, as I was concerned about potential leaks during transport. The bags held up perfectly, even when fully loaded. I found that the process was quick, clean, and efficient. The sealed bag was easy to carry and transport. I typically carried several extra bags with me, allowing for multiple uses without needing to dispose of the waste immediately. Disposal itself varied depending on my location. In some areas, I was able to bury the waste according to Leave No Trace principles, digging a hole at least six inches deep and burying the bag well away from water sources. In other areas, I had to pack the waste out with me until I reached a designated disposal site. This was never a problem, as the sealed bags kept everything contained and odor-free. Even in warmer temperatures, there were no unpleasant smells. The entire waste disposal system is well-designed and user-friendly. It’s a testament to the thoughtful engineering of the GoNature 2.0, making what could have been a daunting task surprisingly easy and manageable. The simplicity and effectiveness of the system significantly contributed to a positive overall experience.
Comfort and Hygiene⁚ My Personal Observations
Comfort and hygiene were my primary concerns when choosing a portable toilet. The GoNature 2.0 pleasantly surprised me on both fronts. The seat itself is surprisingly comfortable, far more so than I anticipated. It’s not like a regular toilet, of course, but it’s adequately padded and provides a stable and secure base. I found I could easily use it for extended periods without discomfort. The design also incorporates a privacy shield, which added a welcome level of discretion, especially in more exposed locations. The hygiene aspect was equally impressive. The disposable bags create a clean and sanitary environment for each use. There were no issues with leaks or spills, ensuring everything remained contained. After each use, I simply wiped down the seat with the provided wipes and everything was ready for the next use. The wipes themselves are biodegradable, aligning with my commitment to Leave No Trace principles. I appreciated the ease of cleaning and the overall sense of hygiene the GoNature 2.0 provided. It allowed me to maintain a level of comfort and cleanliness that I wouldn’t have expected in a wilderness setting. The combination of comfort and hygiene made the entire experience far more pleasant than I initially imagined. It was a crucial factor in my overall positive experience with the product. It transformed what could have been a stressful and uncomfortable experience into something manageable and even somewhat enjoyable.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
My experience with the GoNature 2.0 portable toilet was overwhelmingly positive. It significantly enhanced my camping and hiking trips, eliminating the anxiety associated with finding suitable restroom facilities in remote areas. The ease of setup, use, and disposal was a game-changer. I no longer felt the limitations of relying solely on public restrooms or resorting to less-than-ideal alternatives. The comfort level surprised me; it wasn’t luxurious, but it was far more comfortable than I anticipated. The hygiene aspects were equally impressive, ensuring a sanitary experience throughout my journey. I wholeheartedly recommend the GoNature 2.0 to anyone who spends time outdoors and values convenience and hygiene. For those planning longer trips or venturing into areas with limited restroom access, this portable toilet is an invaluable investment. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and surprisingly robust. While the initial cost might seem high, I believe the peace of mind and increased comfort it provided far outweigh the price. I found it to be a worthwhile investment that significantly improved my overall outdoor experience. I would certainly use it again on future adventures, and I’ve already recommended it to several friends who are planning their own camping and hiking expeditions. The GoNature 2.0 successfully transformed a potentially unpleasant aspect of outdoor adventures into something manageable and even convenient. I can’t recommend it highly enough!