The Bodacious Bandanna

This week we’re highlighting a very special piece of gear no NOLSie should ever be without. It is an unassuming, often unappreciated, addition to NOLS packs at every location all over the world. From Alaska to Australia, from the Yukon to the Winds, the bandanna always has a place and a purpose no matter what the weather, terrain or activity. And now, for your referencing pleasure, here are the top five uses of this ultra-versatile little handkerchief.

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5. The Washcloth–Bathing is a foregone conclusion when it comes to extended backcountry excursions. NOLS students quickly learn that hairbrushes and soap are best left in the frontcountry, but that doesn’t mean we can’t indulge in a little cleanliness after a long day of hiking. Use a wet bandanna to wipe your face and forearms at the end of the day and feel like a whole new person!

4. The Loincloth–In case you forget to pack your pants. (See #5 of NOLS’s Finest Field Snafus)

3. The Cooking Show Host’s Best Friend–When you’re cooking up a storm, use your bandanna like a pro-chef would and keep it by your side to wipe your hands, clean your pot and wave around.

2. The Hair Retention Device–Before you decide to shave your head in the middle of the wilderness, take a deep breath and consider the bandanna as a more convenient alternative. It will keep all those lovely unwashed locks out of your face during gnarly ascents or windy days. Fold it in a triangle to go babushka style or keep folding it for a patterned head-band.

1. The Pee Rag–Yes, that’s right. Our number one favorite use of the bodacious bandanna is as the infamous Pee Rag, and we don’t mean pee as in the letter. The bandanna is a reusable, environmentally friendly substitute for toilet paper, perfect for dabbing up what rocks and snow might have missed. Just be kind to yourself and your cook group–leave it outside the tent at night and don’t stuff it in your pack. Let that baby air out and it will be good to go any time!

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