by Judy Whitson
Private Pilot - August 2000

In the past, when the coffee consumed before departure proved too much to hold, we would spiral down from cruise altitude and find the closest airport with facilities. This usually meant a loss of time, waste of fuel and, on occasion, the use of unsanitary public restrooms or outhouses. But there was no
way either of us would consider trying to use a coffee can.

I was asked to test this product some weeks ago and tucked it into our plane's seat pocket. It wasn't a test that I was looking forward to. Well, the need arose and we were a long way from any
airports except unfamiliar dirt strips. The TravelJohn is a small plastic bag, measuring about 8x5x5 inches, with an oval opening about 3 1/2x1 1/2 inches at the top. The directions on the pouch state that the bag can hold up to 20 ounces and can be used more than once, since the liquid turns into a non-spilling gel.

I was pleased to find that with little effort, and no discomfort, the deed was done. In addition to the liquid being absorbed by the pouch's contents, there was no
detectable odor. Of course, I wasn't flying at the time, and I wouldn't recommend trying it
without an auto-pilot if you're alone. The bag can be used by both men and women with equal ease, and may double as an airsick sack.

The manufacturer states in their brochure that the unisex #1 TravelJohn is a biodegradable non-woven fabric pouch, containing a biodegradable polymer substance, which immobilizes bacterial growth and quickly absorbs the liquid waste and turns it into an odorless, spill-proof gel. It is declared to be non-toxic and waste-disposal safe. This amazing little pouch is small enough to fit in a pocket, purse or flight bag and can be used up to three times in a day before it is thrown away. They are sold in packs of three, so why not keep one in the plane and car? That way the next time you are stuck on the freeway with your kid bouncing around in the back seat, screaming about the need to use the bathroom, hand him a pouch. This product gives maximum relief for minimum dollars.

The only problem I had was getting my pants back up. I remember my private pilot instructor telling me, "...never fly in shoes that you can't walk off a mountain in." But no one warned me
about the hazards of tight jeans.

The #1 TravelJohn is sold in three-packs for $5.99 and are available at many retail pharmacies, sporting-goods stores and major pilot supply shops, such as Sporty's (800/543-8633).