Embarking on an international journey brings excitement, cultural enrichment, and the opportunity to experience different ways of life. One aspect that travelers encounter, often with a mix of curiosity and apprehension, is the realm of public bathrooms and hygiene practices. From continent to continent, regions vary significantly in their bathroom facilities and sanitation standards. Toilet flushing guidelines can vary widely based on local infrastructure, plumbing systems, and environmental regulations. In this blog post, we'll take you on a tour of what are public bathrooms like while traveling internationally, across different regions.
North America:
Public bathrooms are generally well-maintained and equipped with modern amenities. You'll find toilet paper, soap, and running water in most places. Many public bathrooms are free to use, especially in shopping centers and restaurants. However, carrying hand sanitizer for extra hygiene is still a good idea. Most toilets are equipped to handle human waste, toilet paper, and wastewater. It's generally advised not to flush items like feminine hygiene products, paper towels, or wipes, even if they are labeled as "flushable."
Latin America:
Larger cities in Mexico and Central America offer decent public bathrooms, though some may require a small fee. Smaller towns might have basic facilities with varying levels of cleanliness. In South America, public bathrooms might require a fee in shopping centers or tourist spots. Carry small change, as attendants often maintain these facilities. South American countries have varying levels of infrastructure. In urban areas with modern plumbing, human waste, and toilet paper are typically safe to flush. In more rural or less developed areas, it's recommended to dispose of items properly in waste bins. Bidets can be found in certain upscale hotels and establishments in countries like Argentina and Brazil.
Europe:
Countries like France, Germany, and the UK offer well-designed public restrooms with clean facilities. You might encounter paid bathrooms in some tourist areas. Carry some change, as attendants often maintain these facilities. Water and soap are usually available. In France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain you may see bidets in both private and public restrooms. In Eastern European countries, public bathrooms might be less modern and occasionally require a small fee. Some facilities may not provide soap or paper towels, so carrying hand sanitizer is wise. Similar to North America, European toilets are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. However, some countries might have stricter guidelines, and it's best to dispose of items like wipes and feminine hygiene products in designated bins.
Africa:
In North Africa, countries have a mix of facilities. Some tourist sites have modern restrooms, while local places might have squat toilets. Carry tissues and sanitizer. In Sub-Saharan Africa, facilities range from modern in urban areas to basic in rural regions. Always be prepared for a variety of conditions and carry your own supplies. Toilets in Africa vary widely based on the level of development in different regions. In urban areas with modern plumbing, human waste, and toilet paper are generally safe to flush. In less developed areas, it's advised to follow local guidelines.
Middle East:
The Gulf Cooperation Council countries like the UAE provide high-end, ultra-clean public bathrooms. Shopping malls and public spaces offer world-class facilities with pristine hygiene. In other countries in the Middle East, facilities can vary significantly. Urban areas usually have modern restrooms, but rural areas might have squat toilets. Always carry tissues and hand sanitizer. Most toilets are designed to handle human waste through the flushing system. Some Middle Eastern countries might have older or more delicate plumbing systems, particularly in older buildings or rural areas. To avoid clogs and plumbing issues, it's advisable to use waste bins provided in restrooms for items like wipes, sanitary products, and even toilet paper if instructed. Bidets are commonly found in the Middle East, including countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey.
Africa & Middle East travel planners
Asia:
Japan and South Korea excel in hygiene, offering spotlessly clean public restrooms with heated seats and advanced features. Many bathrooms even play soothing music. Taiwan and Hong Kong also maintain clean facilities, though you may need to carry your own toilet paper. You'll find a mix of bathroom standards in Southeast Asia. While upscale places provide good facilities, rural areas might offer squat toilets and a bucket of water for washing. Always carry tissues and hand sanitizer. In many Asian countries, toilets are designed for human waste and toilet paper. However, in some places, like Japan and South Korea, advanced toilets with bidet functions are common. Other items, such as wipes and sanitary products, are often not meant to be flushed. Australia follows similar guidelines to North America and Europe. It's best to avoid flushing items that might cause clogs or harm the plumbing system.
Recommended restroom hygiene products to bring on your international travels:
L to R: Fomin soap sheets, Tushy portable bidet, Wipe That Tush wet wipes, Noshinku pocket hand sanitizer, French Don't Smell toilet spray, Porta Hygiene toilet seat covers
Recommended app for locating toilets worldwide:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/flush-toilet-finder-map/id955254528
As you embark on your international adventure, understanding the regional norms for public bathrooms and hygiene will help you easily navigate this aspect of your journey. While standards vary across regions, proper preparation – like carrying hand sanitizer, tissues, and spare change – ensures that you're ready for whatever bathroom experience comes your way. Embrace these cultural differences, and remember that embracing local practices adds to the authenticity of your travel experience.
Remember that even if an item is labeled as "flushable," it doesn't necessarily mean it's safe for your plumbing system or local sewage infrastructure. In many cases, items like wipes and sanitary products can lead to clogs and damage to wastewater treatment systems. Always follow local guidelines, signs, and instructions provided in the restroom. When in doubt, it's better to use waste bins provided for non-flushable items.
Related:
How to keep clothes fresh while traveling
