1. Plan ahead & prepare well
Good preparation is more than just practical – it's the first step to protecting nature. Knowing which paths are open, where you can camp, and what the weather will be like allows you to set off more safely and relaxed – and makes it easier for the environment to recover.
So, check the rules of the area you want to visit beforehand. Inform yourself about special protective measures, dangers, or restrictions – e.g., fire bans or sensitive animal species.
Prepare for weather changes and emergencies. Plan your route so you don't get stressed, and consider whether you really want to travel during peak season. Maybe it's less crowded if you set off a little earlier or later.
If you are traveling in a group: the smaller, the better. Large groups cause more disturbance, leave more traces, and find it harder to be considerate. Pack smart: less is more. Repack food to avoid waste. And very important: consider how you will manage without a toilet – for example, with a "Läppie"
In short: those who are prepared experience more – and leave less behind.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
Not every beautiful spot is a suitable place for camping or resting. When we walk cross-country or pitch our tent in the middle of a meadow, we often unconsciously harm nature. Therefore, the rule is: stay on existing paths and only use designated places for your camp.
On well-maintained paths, we avoid erosion, protect plants, and prevent new trails from forming. When camping, the rule is: only camp where it is permitted. Look for a spot on hard, resilient ground – such as gravel, sand, or rock. In popular areas, it's best to use existing campsites. In more remote regions, you should spread out your group to minimize visible traces. Avoid getting too close to water sources – at least 60 meters distance is ideal. And when you rest or cook: it's best to leave the area as if no one had been there.
With a little mindfulness, you not only protect the landscape – you also preserve the magic of the place for all who come after you.
3. Dispose of waste correctly
What you bring with you, you also take with you – that's one of the most important principles when hiking and camping. And yes, that also applies to organic waste! A banana peel or an apple core may seem harmless, but they often take months to decompose – and simply don't belong in nature. Or do you like to take a break next to other people's food scraps?
It's best to always pack a small garbage bag and take everything you had with you on your adventure back home. Even better: avoid packaging altogether by repacking your food at home.
And then there's the annoying issue of toilet paper. Many people leave it behind because they think it will decompose – but that takes time! A product like Läppie can make a real difference here: hygienic, reusable, and completely waste-free.
This way, your outing will not only be more relaxing – but also significantly more environmentally friendly.
4. Leave nature as you found it
Nature is not a souvenir shop – no matter how tempting a particularly beautiful stone or a wild flower may seem. If everyone takes something, eventually there will be nothing left.
Therefore: leave everything where you found it. This applies to plants, stones, wood – but also to cultural or historical objects. Many places have a meaning that we may not recognize at first glance.
Leaving traces such as carved names or stacked cairns also changes the landscape – and not always for the better. It’s better to take a nice photo and enjoy the moment. Nature doesn't need additional "decorations" – it is already perfect as it is.
5. Minimize campfire damage
There's no question, a campfire has its charm. But it also carries risks. Fire can scorch the ground, destroy plants, and in the worst-case scenario, spread uncontrollably.
If you don't want to miss out on a warm meal or cozy light, it's better to take a small gas stove with you. It's safer, more practical – and leaves no traces.
Should you be in a place where fires are permitted, please only use designated fire pits. Never use fresh or living wood. And always extinguish the fire completely before moving on.
This way, you can enjoy evenings outdoors – without harming nature.
6. Respect Wildlife
Encounters with wild animals are often magical – and should remain so. For this to happen, a little distance, patience, and respect are needed.
Never feed animals, no matter how cute they look. This harms their health and alters their behavior. Observe from a distance instead – preferably with binoculars or a zoom lens. Loud shouting, selfies, or approaching animals unnecessarily stresses them.
If you're out with a dog, remember: it too is a guest in the habitat of other animals. Keep it on a leash and ensure it doesn't scare off wildlife or leave traces.
Wild animals are not an attraction – they are part of a delicate ecosystem that we are privileged to protect.
7. Be considerate of others
Nature is for everyone – and the more people there are out and about, the more important mutual consideration becomes. A friendly “hello,” making space on narrow paths, or simply turning off your music – all of this contributes to a better coexistence.
Many people go outside to find peace. Loud conversations, Bluetooth speakers, or hectic behavior can quickly be disturbing. Therefore, try to behave as you would wish others to behave.
If you are out in a group, remain attentive and open to others. Share the space, pay attention to right-of-way rules – and be ready to compromise.
Being outdoors together is more enjoyable when everyone feels seen and respected.
How Läppie Helps Implement Leave No Trace
Läppie is more than just a practical cloth – it's a small symbol of a mindful approach to nature. It shows that you care about how you move outdoors – and that you take responsibility without sacrificing comfort.
Thanks to the antimicrobial Silvadur process, Läppie remains odor-free. The PUL membrane in the middle of the fabric reliably protects your hands. And after use? Simply fold it up and attach it to your backpack or bag – discreetly and hygienically.
Whether hiking, climbing, cycling, paddling, or at a festival – Läppie fits into every outdoor routine. It replaces toilet paper, saves waste, and prevents paper scraps or tissues from ending up in nature. In short: with every Läppie, the world becomes a little bit cleaner.