We are all humans and we all have the same basic needs and functions, so despite it being a slightly indelicate subject, let’s talk toilets. If you are taking a camping trip into the great outdoors in your campervan or caravan, it may already have a toilet installed – if not, a portable camping toilet can be a godsend. Even if your vehicle does have one installed, not everyone likes going to the loo in close proximity to others, especially if it’s not family, so a separate facility outside can be far more comfortable for everyone.
Even if you are staying at a campsite with facilities, it can be a lot easier to have something next to you, rather than having to trek a distance, especially in the dark of night, your pathway only illuminated by your camping lantern. A camping toilet can also be invaluable as a backup if your main system fails.
Even if you are going back to nature and going camping in a tent, there is absolutely nothing wrong with introducing a few home comforts to your trip to add that little bit of luxury, plus maintaining some degree of dignity and keeping up those ingrained social standards. Let’s face it – it’s got to be better than swiping a swarm of midges away as you try to keep your balance while squatting behind a nearby tree.
At Parkers, we have sifted through the lot, and like Renton from Trainspotting, we’ve delved deep into porta-potty land. After exploring, we’ve come up with some of the best portable camping toilets to help you enjoy your outdoor activities to the fullest.
The best portable camping toilets at a glance:
Best camping loo: Thetford Porta Potti 565E – Buy now from Amazon UK
Editor’s choice: Campingaz Easygo Portable Toilet – Buy now from Amazon UK
Best collapsible loo: Bivvy Loo – Buy now from Amazon UK
The best portable camping toilets
The best camping loo
The flush is electric, and the power is supplied by batteries, which also operate the waste and flush tank water levels to help prevent overflow or spillages. There's also an integrated toilet roll holder to keep packing down to a minimum, and the waste tank comes with a carry holder to make trips to empty the tank a lot easier.
Pros
- All in one toilet
- Toilet roll holder
- Easy to clean and empty
Cons
- Can be heavy when full
Editor's choice
Aimed at the market for sturdiness and not to be hidden away, the Campingaz is on the larger side of portable toilets. The detachable waste tank has a carry handle and a waste disposal point on the tank, useful for avoiding any splashback when emptying.
As a nice finishing touch, Campingaz has applied a special antibacterial coating to all surfaces which you may come into contact with, this kills off any unwanted bacteria and, apparently, keeps the smell to a minimum.
Pros
- Large weight capacity
- Sturdy
- Detachable waste tank
Cons
- Be wary of splashback when emptying
Best collapsable loo
Once assembled, the corrugated cylinder section can support up to 146kg, which is impressive for something that packs down to only eight centimetres thick. The liner bags contain a special powder that, when combined with waste, produces a neutral gel that makes tidying up a doddle. These bags can then be disposed of safely.
Pros
- Collapsable
- Impressive weight bearing
Cons
- Make sure you have enough bags, as you don't want to be caught short
- If it goes wrong, it goes wrong…
Best eco-friendly loo
Once you have finished on the Eco-Friendly Composting toilet, you use sawdust or peat to start the composting process. Each compartment has a capacity of around 8 litres, and it’s made from very rugged and durable plastics that can withstand a weight of 200kg.
Pros
- Large weight bearing
- Separate compartments
Cons
- Quite heavy to carry
Camping accessories
There are some options that you may want to consider using when camping to make things just that little bit more comfortable.
Best Bivvy Loo refill set
Each sachet of powder can turn up to two litres of liquid waste into a gel, which does not harm the environment. The amount of liquid waste that can be converted depends on salt content - this can vary between 750ml and 2 litres.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly
- Extra-long wipes
Cons
- Only suitable for the Bivvy Loo
Best privacy tent
Rrp: $59.99
Rrp: $59.99
There is a mesh cover at the top, which allows odours to ventilate, it comes with a rain cover and is super easy to erect.
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Easy to erect
Cons
- Can be difficult to fold away
Best flush and waste additive
The pink toilet rinse is used in the flush water. Flush water is often the cause of odours in camping and motorhomes. This solution will keep it smelling clean, help protect the lining of the toilet bowl, and keep the flush system working effectively.
Pros
- Effective for flush and wastewater
- Fights unpleasant odours
Cons
- Bottles have to be kept upright after opening
FAQ’s
What is the best toilet for camping?
that will depend on what your requirements are and what kind of trip you’re going on. If you are backpacking, something small, foldable and compact would be best. If you are in a camper or caravan, you can choose between all sorts of different loos, providing different ranges of comfort and convenience.
Where do you empty a portable toilet when camping?
Care should be taken when emptying a portable toilet. In most cases, you should empty them at the campsite waste disposal point. You should avoid emptying them into a domestic toilet as the chemicals could damage the plumbing system.
What is the difference between a cassette toilet and a porta potty?
A cassette toilet has a section which can be removed for easy emptying. A porta potty is self-contained and portable, with no external waste tank.
Do you put toilet paper in a camping toilet?
You can use toilet paper, but it is best to use paper which has been specifically designed to be used with camping toilets as it breaks down more quickly and can prevent blockages.
How do you dispose of human waste from portable toilets in the UK?
Many caravan parks, campsites, and service areas in the UK have designated dump stations where you can empty the waste from your portable toilet. These dump stations typically have facilities for both black water (waste) and grey water (sink and shower water) disposal. They also usually have facilities where you can refill any water containers.
Alex Boyd is a Commercial Content Writer for Parkers, specialising in power tools and pressure washers. In his spare time, he enjoys DIY, travel, gardening and music.
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