Preparation is key while camping. Just by reading this article you’re on a good track to succeeding with your wild shaving adventures. After all, shaving and grooming while camping is part of the experience.
The beauty of the activities is usually leaving behind the civilised world and moving into a tranquil but exciting space. Besides the natural feeling in the woods, you also get to unwind from a busy day and recharge. Many of us still like to ensure we look good, even out in the wild. After all, the way we look affects our self confidence and general good feeling which is key to enjoying your camping trip.
I’m personally a camping enthusiast. In the past, I’ve had trouble with grooming when I went camping, and for a long time, I have been practising various self-care techniques that have been quite helpful.
However, I like to step out of my comfort zone and find more convenient grooming solutions. My mission has always been to make shaving and grooming a simple and convenient experience for all men, regardless of where they are.
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- Tips for shaving and grooming
- How to choose between electric shaving Vs DE shaving
- Grooming items to carry when camping
- How to shave while camping
- Tips and tricks to use when camping
Tips for Shaving While at Your Campsite
Let’s face it; grooming while camping is difficult. It is even harder when you are alone and lack the correct equipment and tools to do so. I love camping, and it has opened my eyes to so many activities. I knew I had to keep up with my grooming routines, such as shaving while camping. Not only did I feel better after shaving, but I also built a manageable and consistent routine that you can use today while camping.
Electric Shaving Vs DE Shaving while Camping
Whatever shaving method you choose is a matter of personal choice. You should consider the pros and cons of each piece of equipment before making your selection. Your choice will be based on aspects such as the time and sharpness of the shave. In this section, I will explore the pros and cons of electric shaving and DE (Double-Edged razor).
Benefits of Using an Electric Shaver
Speed
An electric shaver is usually faster and gives you a cleaner shave than manual razors. This is because they usually roll up on the skin, forcing hair upwards before cutting them. Following this technique, you do not need to shave one area multiple times, making this method much faster and allowing you to enjoy nature more.
Portability
Electric shavers are portable. Once you charge them, they will store the power for a few hours or days. This would be a major advantage while you are camping, especially when you are packing light.
It Doesn’t Require any Grooming Items
What do you need when using the electric shaver? Nothing! You require no shaving cream, soap, or gel when shaving. It only glides across your skin, pulls up the hair, and cuts from the lowest base. You can even start shaving without water while camping. From experience, I know how scarce water can be in the wild.
Cons
- Not suitable for men with heavy facial hair
- It’s pretty noisy (especially noticeable in the woods)
- Cleaning and maintenance needs attention
- The initial purchase can be expensive.
Benefits of Using a DE Manual Shaver
Cheapest Method
DE razors have to be the cheapest method that you can use to groom yourself. By cheap, I mean the initial purchasing price, as well as the cleaning and maintenance. This also applies to disposable razors, however, due to environmental considerations I do not recommend using these, even when shaving and grooming while camping.
Perfect for Men with Ingrown Hairs
I have been a victim of ingrown hair, and it is not a beautiful sight. They form painful pimples on your skin, and this, in turn, affects your self-esteem and confidence. DE razors don’t require you to go over one area twice as they cut hair as close to the skin as possible. It offers a clean shave. Small ingrown hair can ruin your whole camping trip!
Guaranteed Sharpness
DE razors are sharp and often stay sharp for long. As long as you clean them well, you can use one for up to six camping days.
Cons
- Getting used to the razor takes time and practice.
- Razor burns and bumps are a real worry while out and about. Luckily I have found the solution.
- Requires additional items (creams, brushes, pots).
What to Bring when Camping
Camping requires that you pack light. You do not want to have a heavier load than you can carry as you trek and camp. Here is what I recommend you take for shaving when camping.
Razor (Double-Edge Razor or an Electric Shaver)
Your choice of razor depends on your hair type and your personal preference. You can always check out my review of the best travel shavers which will be perfect for this camping scenario. Most importantly, choose what you like and what you are familiar with. If you are undecided, you can try each one out before embarking on the camping trip.
My Recommendations:
Braun M60b
The M60b is Braun’s smallest shaver, which still packs a punch. Powered by 2 simple AA batteries, this is the shaver I personally use when out and about exploring the wild.
Parker A1R
This Classic DE Parker razor comes in 4 parts inside a dedicated travel pouch. Just assemble it on the go using your favourite DE razor. Couldn’t be much simpler than that!
Toiletry bag
Fitdom Tactical Toiletry Bag
A good toiletry bag will enable you to store all your wet shaving and toiletry items. You can store your shaving brushes, shaving creams, razors, and most importantly a small portable mirror. It will help you stay organised which is strongly recommended while camping.
Soap
Henri et Victoria Shaving Soap
Since you will be in the woods, go for unscented soaps and shaving creams. It keeps away small bugs and scent-interested flies. High quality shaving soap will also prevent razor burn, which can be particularly annoying when you are out adventuring.
Other items you should bring along with you:
- Brushes – For lathering up and applying the soap
- Pots – To create lather and store water for shaving
- A mirror – It’s almost as important as the razor itself! It ensures you never miss a spot but you can also use it to start a fire or signal a plane if you get lost.
How to Shave while Camping
Tips and Tricks
In this section, you will get a few tips and tricks to help you groom in the woods while you enjoy the wild nature.
- When camping, resources such as water can be tight. Preparation and planning will allow you to enjoy the trip while looking your best.
- Before you shave your facial hair, you need to trim it. This is even more important when you have heavy facial hair. And remember to shave right before leaving for your adventure.
- Shaving before you shower leaves lots of hair scattered on your face. To avoid this, you should only shower (or wash in the river) after you shave.
- While camping, you need to ensure that you use as little product as possible. This is because you will only pack a few items, and you must use them well in order to last long. Be minimalist with the resources that you have and remember to pack light.
- Soothe your skin after shaving it to reduce the past-shave effects
- Always use unscented soaps and shaving creams
Wrapping up
Camping is fun and exciting. Grooming is also an essential thing for every man. As you have seen in this article, shaving while camping in the woods doesn’t have to be difficult.
Preparation is the most important aspect of shaving and grooming while camping. That’s why you need to ensure you pack light and for that I recommend sticking to electric shavers wherever possible!
