Whether you need a lightweight backpacking toilet under 5 lbs or a family-sized 5-gallon flush toilet, this guide covers the top options for car camping, RVs, and backcountry trips.
Quick Comparison: Best Camping Toilets
| Model | Capacity | Weight | Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camco Standard | 5.3 gallons | 11 lbs | Flush | $$ |
| Reliance Hassock | 5 gallons | 9 lbs | Bucket | $ |
| Reliance Fold-to-Go | Uses bags | 4.5 lbs | Collapsible | $ |
| Reliance Hunter’s Loo | 5 gallons | 9.5 lbs | Bucket | $ |
| Serene Life | 5.3 gallons | 12 lbs | Flush | $$ |
How to Choose a Camping Toilet
Selecting the right camping toilet depends on your specific needs and camping style. Here are the key factors to consider:
Capacity
Toilet capacity determines how often you’ll need to empty the waste tank. For solo campers or weekend trips, a 2-3 gallon capacity is sufficient. Families or longer trips require 5+ gallon capacity. Consider that a 5-gallon toilet typically handles 50-60 flushes before needing to be emptied.
Weight and Portability
Backpackers need lightweight, collapsible options under 5 lbs. Car campers can opt for heavier, more comfortable models (9-12 lbs) with larger capacities. Consider how far you’ll carry the toilet and available storage space in your vehicle or pack.
Flush vs Bucket Style
Flush toilets use water to rinse waste into a sealed holding tank, providing better odor control and a more familiar experience. Bucket-style toilets are simpler, lighter, and don’t require water, but offer less odor protection. Flush models are ideal for base camps, while bucket styles work well for minimalist camping.
Odor Control
Look for sealed valve systems that prevent odors from escaping between uses. Flush toilets generally provide superior odor control. Chemical treatments and deodorizers can help with bucket-style models. If using the toilet inside a tent or RV, prioritize models with excellent sealing mechanisms.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Consider how easy the toilet is to empty and clean. Removable waste tanks simplify disposal. Smooth interior surfaces clean more easily than textured ones. Some models feature level indicators to show when emptying is needed. Bag-based systems offer the easiest cleanup but require purchasing compatible bags.
Best Camping Toilets
1. Camco Standard Portable Travel Toilet
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Best for: Car campers and RV owners who want a home-like toilet experience.
Capacity: 5.3 gallons (holds waste for 3-4 days for 2 people). Weight: 11 lbs. Flush: Hand-pump piston. Price: ~$85.
The Camco is a large-capacity camping toilet that doesn’t need to be emptied after every use.
The 5.3-gallon tank holds waste for 3-4 days (2 people), reducing emptying frequency. The wide base prevents tipping, and the seat supports up to 330 lbs.
The sealed valve prevents odor leaks between uses – even if there’s some leftover waste. As such, this toilet can be used either within your tent or outside in the wilderness. The hand-pump piston flush uses 16 oz of water per flush.
2. Reliance Hassock Portable Camping Toilet
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Best for: Budget-conscious campers who don’t need a flush system.
Capacity: 5 gallons. Weight: 9 lbs. Type: Bucket-style with seat.
The Hassock is a bucket-style toilet with a contoured seat and built-in toilet paper holder.
To remove waste, users must simply remove the toilet seat. This mechanism means you can dispose of waste while keeping yourself clean. The built-in toilet paper holder keeps paper dry and accessible. Finally, the Hassock has a lightweight build that means it’s easy to carry or place in your car.
3. Reliance Fold-to-Go Portable Toilet Seat
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Best for: Backpackers and minimalist campers prioritizing weight and pack size.
Folded dimensions: 5″ tall × 13″ wide. Weight: 4.5 lbs. Type: Collapsible seat (bags required).
The Fold-to-Go is the lightest option at 4.5 lbs, ideal for backpackers and hikers. It’s perfect for those who want to travel light, like backpackers. The Portable camping toilet seat measures just 5 inches in its folded state and weighs just 4.5 lbs.
The 13″ seat height is lower than standard toilets (16-17″). Waste bags snap out without spills, and the plastic frame wipes clean.
4. Reliance “Hunter’s Loo” Camouflage Portable Toilet
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Best for: Hunters and families who want affordable capacity without a flush system.
Capacity: 5 gallons. Weight: 9.5 lbs. Type: Bucket-style with camo exterior.
The camouflage exterior blends into outdoor settings. At ~$50, it’s the most affordable 5-gallon option.
The 5-gallon capacity handles 3-4 days of use for a family of four. The wide base provides stability on uneven terrain.
5. Serene Life Outdoor Portable Toilet
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Capacity: 5.3 gallons. Weight: 12 lbs. Flush: 3-position spray nozzle. Features: Level indicator, sealed valve.
The Serene Life resembles a household toilet with a full-size seat and porcelain-style finish. The 3-position flush nozzle and sealed valve contain odors between uses. The built-in level indicator shows when the tank is 75% full.
Camping Toilet FAQs
How often do I need to empty a camping toilet?
This depends on capacity and usage. A 5-gallon toilet typically needs emptying every 3-5 days for a family of four, or after 50-60 uses. Flush toilets with level indicators will alert you when the tank is full. Empty the toilet before it reaches maximum capacity to prevent overflow and make disposal easier.
How do I dispose of waste from a camping toilet?
Dispose of waste at designated RV dump stations, vault toilets at campgrounds, or approved waste disposal facilities. Never dump waste in nature, storm drains, or regular trash bins. Many campgrounds provide dump stations for a small fee. For bag-based systems, seal bags tightly and dispose of them in designated trash receptacles where permitted, or pack them out to proper facilities.
Do I need special bags for camping toilets?
Bucket-style and collapsible toilets work best with specially designed waste bags that are thicker and more durable than regular trash bags. These bags often include absorbent materials and odor-neutralizing chemicals. While you can use heavy-duty trash bags in a pinch, purpose-made camping toilet bags provide better leak protection and odor control. Flush toilets don’t require bags.
Can I use regular toilet paper in a camping toilet?
Yes, but RV or marine toilet paper is recommended for flush-style camping toilets as it breaks down faster and reduces clogs. Regular toilet paper works fine in bucket-style toilets with bags. Avoid using excessive amounts of paper, and never flush wet wipes, paper towels, or feminine hygiene products, as these don’t break down and can clog the system.
Final Recommendations: Which Camping Toilet Is Right for You?
After testing all five models, here are our recommendations based on different camping scenarios:
Best for Backpacking: The Reliance Fold-to-Go wins for ultralight camping. At just 4.5 lbs and collapsing to 5 inches, it’s the most packable option for hikers who need to minimize weight and bulk.
Best for Families: The Camco Standard Portable Travel Toilet offers the best combination of capacity (5.3 gallons), comfort, and odor control for family camping trips. The flush system and sealed tank make it suitable for use inside tents or RVs.
Best Budget Option: The Reliance Hassock provides excellent value with its 5-gallon capacity, built-in toilet paper holder, and simple bucket design. It’s reliable, affordable, and easy to maintain.
Best Overall Comfort: The Serene Life Outdoor Portable Toilet most closely resembles a home toilet with its full-size seat, 3-way flush, and level indicator. It’s ideal for car campers who prioritize comfort over portability.
Ready to upgrade your camping experience? Check current prices and availability on these top-rated camping toilets and enjoy a more comfortable outdoor adventure. Your camping trips will never be the same!
