To spend time out in nature camping, you need to follow some rules. So you don’t ruin the experience of other outdoor lovers. One of these rules is the use of camping toilets. When you choose a camping toilet, you need to look for many things. In case you don’t, there will be many problems that will ruin the camping experience.
A camping toilet is a great piece of equipment for campers that spend many days out in nature. With this simple thing, you won’t have to worry about finding a suitable place to go to the toilet that is often pretty far from the camp. Also, you won’t need to dig holes into worrying about waste disposal and odor control.
In addition to toilets, we have also tested and reviewed biodegradable soap, camping towels, biodegradable wipes, camping showers, and camping trowels for all hygiene needs during camping and outdoor adventures.
We have crafted a list of the best portable camping toilets that are available in the market. This list might help you select one for yourself. So mind your daily morning business without the hassle and worry with the RV camper toilet range we have brought for you.
Best Overall Camping Toilet
1. Porta Potti Thetford Corp
Weight: 13.45 pounds
Dimensions: 18.39x 15.75 x 17.83
Features we like: Spill-proof and has ab in-built toilet paper holder
Features we don’t like: Can be smaller.
Porta Potti Thetford Corp is a portable toilet that is medium-sized and made of Polypropylene. If you’re seeking the one all-around portable and compact toilet, the Porta Potti Thetford Corp remains our top-performing model for all seasons. This model has an award-winning sleek, modern, and home-like look.
It also has a very comfortable seat height and is sturdy, so excellent choice even if you are overweight. Even if you are tall or short, don’t worry; this portable RV and camping toilet is suitable for everyone. The best feature is that it has an inbuilt toilet paper disposer on the side. It is very easy to use and clean. This Porta Potty toilet also has an ergonomic carrying handle, so you can carry it easily with you.
The technology used in the Porta Potti portable toilet makes it odorless and leak-proof when it comes to sanitation. It has a tight valve setting that prevents odors from escaping and prevents water backsplashes when you empty the tank. You will be reminded when to empty the tank using the tank indicator.
The company also manufactures Thetford Corp’s Porta Potti carrying bag. You need to buy this separately as this is not included in the main unit. All in all, the set makes for a perfect portable potty toilet for camping.
Additionally, It looks much better when we compared with the other top portable toilets model with its beautiful design and curve, which is nice for people to feel more comfortable while using it outdoors. Some of the designs we reviewed below look awkward but have other advantages, such as cost, weight, and portability.
Best Budget Friendly Option
2. Camco Portable Toilet Bucket
Weight: 4 pounds
Dimensions: 13.4 x 16.1 x 13.8 inches
Features we like: Lightweight
Features we don’t like: Odor control is absent
Camco portable toilet is entirely different from Porta Potti portable toilet. This portable RV toilet is a very basic one that comes with a budget-friendly option but still provides comfortable toilet functions. It has a bucket with a capacity of 5 gallons, a toilet seat attachment, and, finally, three garbage seal bags.
To assemble, you need to open the garbage seal bag and line it in the bucket. Then, you take the toilet seat attachment and fix it to the bucket, and your Camco portable toilet is ready to use. The garbage seal bags you get with the toilet unit have a special seal to avoid leakages. It is an affordable, lightweight, and easy option for a quick hiking expedition.
There is a handle on the bucket that makes it easy to carry. This basic model is best for a short trip of one or a maximum of two days, but you can extend it by carrying additional waste bags. Also, remember to carry the toilet paper separately.
It does not smell due to the anti-odor powder inside them. Also, the cleaning is easier than it looks. We did not observe any leakage; the zip lock closure worked every time after use and cleaning.
It looks like a dustbin, so some people may feel awkward using it, but it’s way better than going out in nature for the poop. This is unsuitable for heavier people because the bucket is not very comfortable, and it might break and create a mess.
Best For Heavy Duty Use
3. SereneLife Portable Toilet With Bag
Weight: 11.25 pounds
Dimensions: 16.5 x 14.9 x 16.5 inches
Features we like: It has a 3-way pistol flush
Features we don’t like: Tad bit expensive
SereneLife Portable Toilet is one of the most advanced RV camper toilets available in the market. It has two tanks, one for clean water and another one that collects sewage. So, to operate, all you need to do is fill the clean water tank, and voila, it is all set for use.
This camping toilet has the highest sewage water collecting capacity of 5.3 gallons, so you need not worry about emptying it regularly. Also, the tank has a rotating spout that prevents water from back splashing, so you can drain it easily. There is a 3-way pistol flush attachment fitted in it.
The chemical toilet comes with a tote bag that is included in the unit so that you can carry it around on your hikes. This portable toilet also has odor control technology that traps all the smells inside.
We love the SereneLife toilet, but it’s not the lightest model. With a weight above 11 pounds, this stands among the heaviest outdoor toilets, but it’s worth it for group camping. The water tank is big enough to last 2 to 3 days if only a few people are using it. Unlike other bucket toilets, this holds well, and we didn’t feel unsafe using it. All things considered, this toilet is exceptional for performance, comfort, and durability— a good investment for regular campers.
4. Camco Portable Travel Toilet
Weight: 9.4 pounds
Dimensions: 11.5 x 14 x 16 inches
Features we like: Has a sturdy construction
Features we don’t like: Size might be smaller for use
Camco Portable Travel Toilet has a unique construction that is sturdy and lightweight. It has a small size but more than enough features that stand out from the crowd due to its square-shaped design. So, once you fill the flush tank, you are free to use it. With the slide valve locks, the Camco 2.6-gallon camping toilet ensures no odor and prevents leakages.
To empty this toilet, all you need to do is pull the side lever. The top will separate from the tank, and then you can empty it. It has a very user-friendly construction and is very hygienic and safe to use. Another plus point is that it does not leak at all, which is a must in outdoor toilets to avoid ruining your stuff.
Like SereneLife, this toilet weighs a little higher at 11 pounds but provides safety and comfort like home. Despite the weight, its compact design fits nicely inside the car or RV.
The only considerable knock against its comfort for us is that it has a tight hole to pour out waste that gets clogged up with toilet paper. Overweight people will feel uncomfortable sitting on the seat, which is ideal for small to medium-sized persons. Having said that, this toilet has so many other advantages for a wide range of campings due to its portable design.
5. Thetford Porta Potti 345
Weight: 9.95 pounds
Dimensions: 17.13 x 15.36 x 13.27 inches
Features we like: Sturdy and durable design.
Features we don’t like: Size might be a bit too smaller
Extremely compact and lightweight, this camping toilet is another model of Thetford Porta Potti. Thetford Porta Potti 345 is a portable toilet for camping that has a very uber and sleek look. It is perfect for any outdoor activity due to its compact body.
This chemical toilet has two tanks- the water tank and the septic tank that are square-shaped and compact. It is highly durable as it is made from Polystyrene. This camping toilet also has a handle that makes it easy to carry around. Also, the septic tank is larger, and thus, you don’t need to empty it often.
This toilet, too, comes with a valve that prevents odor and leaks. The valve also helps separate the whole body and the septic collection tank. Using the valve, you can remove the tank and empty it. The tank is also fitted with a rotor that prevents backsplashes of water. The carrier tote bag for this camping toilet is not included in the unit. You can buy it separately.
The downside of this compact toilet is that if you are taller, you will have a challenge sitting on it due to its low height. Also, you need to be a little more attentive when you dump the waste as the vent valve can open easily you might be screwed with potty all over your legs.
Best Portable Option
6. STANSPORT Camp Toilet
Weight: 9.2 pounds
Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 14 inches
Features we like: Lightweight
Features we don’t like: Odor control is absent
The STANSPORT camp toilet is similar to the Camco Portable toilet bucket but is the lightest outdoor toilet we tested and reviewed. It is an advanced version of the earlier mentioned Camco Portable toilet.
You will receive three plastic garbage bags that you need to fit in the bucket with this unit. Then you need to fix the seat properly on top, and you can use it. Once you are done, you can dispose of the plastic bag and change it for your next use. The plastic bags are made in such a way that they do not leak. There are no flush systems in these two portable toilets.
Also, if you use this portable toilet for camping, do not forget to carry your toilet paper separately. It has a carry bag that holds every attachment. With its small size, it fits in any place. The seat is comfortable and soft due to the extra durable cushion.
Furthermore, it’s sturdy with a heavy base but small for taller and heavier people. It holds plenty of water, so we did not have to change the bags frequently when using it mainly for urine.
Its light weight makes the STANSPORT camp toilet a serious top competitor among other models; we found it to be the most comfortable and portable toilet with a budget-friendly option.
Best For Privacy
7. GigaTent Pop-up Pod Privacy tent
Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 2 inches
Features we like: Comes with a tent system
GigaTent Pop-up Pod Privacy tent is not a toilet, but we still included it in our list because of the importance of privacy tents for toilets. You can fit any toilet inside the pod and will have complete privacy. Also, if you don’t bring a separate toilet, you can still use a camping trowel to dig the hole and poo comfortably instead of going into the bushes.
This pod tent simply opens up to create a private space for you when you want to use your portable toilet for camping. You can place your portable toilet in this one and use it there. This builds an enclosure, and you get to have a little say in changing space or bathroom or rain shelter on the go.
It can accommodate one person comfortably. It has a height of nearly 6 ft. Thus, even the tallest of people can fit into it. It is a must-buy accessory with a portable toilet. You can set this up next to your tent on your camping trip and have an extra private space ready in no time.
Also, it is made from heavy-duty material and is wear and tear-proof. Buy this pod tent with your camping toilet today!
How To Choose a Camping Toilet
As mentioned before, there are many different camping toilets you can choose from. So we will try to make your buying decision easier by explaining what you should look for based on our experience. Camping and hiking tools are now experiencing new revolutions with each passing year. The most interesting innovation is that of a portable toilet for camping. The camping industry is currently looking to modernize your hiking experience, and such chemical toilets are game-changing indeed.
Key Points to note while buying and use portable toilets for camping!
Sometimes we tend to avoid long camping trips and hiking expeditions only because the basic morning routines can get completely disturbed. Sometimes finding public restrooms and WCs can be a tricky task. They might not even be clean. The last thing you need to do during your hiking trip would be restroom hunting.
Well, you don’t need to do that anymore! There are new portable toilets available in the market that can be your go-to quick fixes. Let us understand how you can choose the ideal RV camper toilet for your need.
Portable Camping Toilets Types
There are broadly four types of portable toilets found in the market-
First are the basic portable toilet buckets, and second is the advanced portable toilets that are mini movable versions of the toilets available at our homes.
Toilet Buckets
These are large buckets attached to a toilet seat. You can use them by placing a garbage bag inside the bucket and then empty it. You can also make it DIY. All you need is a huge bucket available in the hardware stores and simply attach a foam seat or any other toilet seat. This is because you don’t want to sit on the sharp edges, and your quick fix portable toilet is ready.
Bucket toilets are one of the easiest camping toilets you can get or even make. As their name suggests, they are made from a bucket with a toilet seat. This type of camping toilet is easy to maintain, lightweight, and portable. It can also be paired with waste bags for easy disposal.
Chemical Toilets
Best waste disposal comes with chemical toilets. These toilets use chemicals to break down waste which makes them almost odor free. This option is popular with RVs and people that camp for many days. Chemical toilets are the same as porta-potties.
These are specially designed for long hiking and camping expeditions. They have proper flush tanks and septic tanks attached to them. Your only task is to add water to the freshwater tank, and you are ready to use it on the go.
Portable Flush Toilets
These camping toilets have the closest experience to a home toilet. The downside is that they are bulkier and require water to work. Also, this type of camping toilet is hard to maintain.
Composting Toilets
These types of camping toilets are meant for long-term campers that won’t change their location in the near future. Composting toilets, through natural processes, convert waste into compost, which you can use in many ways. However, this option is not meant for weekend camping trips. It is hard to maintain and clean.
Portability
Hiking and Backpacking
If you are considering hiking or backpacking far from your car, you should look for lightweight options that are easily carried. This type of camping toilet should be collapsible. One of the best options you can choose from is a bucket toilet.
Car Camping or RVing
When car camping or RVing, you get the freedom of carrying a larger and more comfortable camping toilet. Since you don’t worry that much about size, like hikers or backpackers, we would recommend chemical toilets.
Capacity
A very important thing to consider when choosing a camping toilet is toilet capacity. To measure what capacity you need, you need to know how many people will be out camping with you and how many days you will camp. The bigger the number of these two factors, the bigger the camping toilet you need.
Flushing Mechanism
If you want an in-home experience, you should look for a camping toilet with a flushing mechanism. These mechanisms come in many varieties, such as pump action or battery-powered. Whichever you choose, ensure that the mechanism works and is easy to use so you don’t get into problems when camping.
Waste Disposal
There are three types of waste disposal in camping toilets:
Waste bags
Waste bags are used with more portable camping toilets, such as bucket toilets. With waste bags, you can securely seal and manage the waste after you finish camping.
Chemical Disposal
This type of disposal is one of the best options regarding your camping experience. However, you need to know that this waste requires appropriate chemical disposal after camping.
Composting
This type of waste disposal requires more research and understanding. But for some people, this is a very good option because it can be used in many ways.
Odor Control
You never want to experience a bad smell while camping; this will for sure ruin your camping experience. Therefore, odor control is one of the most important factors when it comes to choosing a camping toilet. It is our body waste, and in the end, it stinks. You don’t want to carry a toilet around that smells. Many portable toilets have an in-built odor control system that makes them easy to carry around and stink-proof. Always the first thing that you must look for in portable toilets is that is it odor-proof. Generally speaking, there are two types of odor control:
Waste sealing
This type of odor control means sealing waste into specially made waste bags which will prevent odor from coming out.
Chemically treating waste
Another option is to use chemicals for waste treatment. In this case, special chemicals are used to neutralize unpleasant smells. When it comes to this type of odor control, you should research what chemical is the best option for you.
The dimensions
Make sure that the portable toilet is of a good height and width. Usually, the camping toilets are tiny, so ensure that the size suits you. Mostly thes toilets are made from fiber and are extremely lightweight. Also, do not forget to buy a portable toilet that comes with a bag. If the bag is not included in the main unit, buy it separately but do not miss this one.
User-friendliness
The toilet you buy must be easy to install and have a solid grip on the ground. If it has separate water tanks, then they must be easy to separate and empty. Ensure that the water tank that needs to be emptied should have a rotor so that the water does not back splash on you. The flush must be powerful as well.
With this checklist, you will make the right choice of portable toilet for camping. Relieve yourself without troubles on your hike with your super-savvy camping toilet.
FAQs
Which type of camping toilets are best?
See if you are a frequent hiker and looking for a permanent solution, you must buy the high-end quality advanced portable toilets from some of the most reputed companies, including Porta Potti portable toilets and Camco portable toilets. These are reliable and durable. And will act as a permanent solution for every hiking expedition. If you are not a very frequent traveler, you can go for the Portable buckets as they are cheaper when compared to these advanced toilets. So, choose according to your need.
Conclusion
With camping toilets, you get to enjoy a convenient restroom outdoors without worrying about waste disposal. However, you need to consider some factors when choosing a best camping toilet, such as the type of camping toilet, portability, capacity, flushing mechanism, waste disposal, odor control, ease of cleaning, and budget.
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