Best Camping Toilet 2023

Best Camping Toilet 2023

Camping is a great way to enjoy nature and have some fun with your friends and family. But when nature calls, you need a reliable and comfortable solution to take care of your business. That’s why we have compiled a list of the best camping toilets of 2023, based on their features, performance, and customer reviews. Whether you need a simple bucket toilet, a folding commode, or a portable flushing toilet, we have you covered. Here is a comparison table of the five products we reviewed:

Product	Type	Weight	Capacity	Features	Price
Drive Medical Folding Bedside Commode	Folding commode	7.5 lbs	N/A	Foldable, steel frame, plastic seat and lid, splash guard, bucket with handle and cover	$29.99
Portable Privacy Tent with Collapsible Toilet	Bucket toilet with tent	8.75 lbs	5 gallons	Pop-up tent, zippered door, mesh windows, carry bag, bucket with seat and lid, biodegradable bags	$69.95
SereneLife Portable Toilet	Flushing toilet	11.25 lbs	5.3 gallons (waste tank)	Piston pump flusher, waste level indicator, splash-free rotating spout, double-sealed drain valve, extra-large seat	$99.99
Camco Toilet Bucket with Seat	Bucket toilet	3 lbs	5 gallons	Durable bucket, snap-on seat and lid, biodegradable bags included	$24.99
Carex Folding Commode	Folding commode	8.5 lbs	N/A	Foldable, steel frame, plastic seat and lid, splash guard, bucket with handle and cover, adjustable height	$39.99

Drive Medical 11148-1 Folding Steel Bedside Commode Chair

The Drive Medical 11148-1 Folding Steel Bedside Commode Chair is a portable toilet designed to support bariatric individuals weighing up to 350 lbs. It’s versatile and can be used as a bedside commode, raised toilet seat, or placed over a regular toilet. The chair is foldable for easy storage and comes with a 7.5-quart bucket for waste management.

Pros:

1. Versatile Usage: Can be used as a standalone commode, placed over a regular toilet, or as a raised toilet seat.
2. Foldable and Portable: Compact and lightweight design ensures easy transport and storage.
3. Sturdy Construction: Made of steel, this commode can support up to 350 lbs, making it suitable for bariatric individuals.
4. Easy Assembly: Straightforward snap-together assembly and height adjustment features.
5. Convenient Waste Management: The attached 7.5-quart bucket eliminates concerns about waste disposal, especially in places without easy access to restroom facilities.

Cons:

1. Seat Thickness: Some users found the toilet seat to be on the thinner side, which might be uncomfortable for prolonged use.
2. Width Concerns: The commode might be slightly too wide to fit in a standard bathtub, limiting its usage as a bath chair.
3. Temporary Solution: Some users believe it’s best for temporary use and might not be comfortable for long-term needs due to the plastic seat.

What People Say:

1. Many users found it to be a lifesaver in times of need, especially after surgeries, injuries, or during times of reduced mobility.
2. Users appreciated its dual functionality – as a bedside commode and an elevated toilet seat.
3. The ease of assembly and foldability were highlighted as convenient features.
4. Concerns were raised about the thinness of the seat, which might not be comfortable for all users.
5. It’s recommended for both short-term and unexpected situations, with one user even recounting a humorous camping mishap where the commode saved the day.

Portable Privacy Tent with Collapsible Toilet

The Portable Changing Tent by Wakeman Outdoors is a spacious and durable privacy tent, designed primarily for outdoor activities like camping and beach outings. It offers a convenient solution for changing, showering, or even using it as a temporary toilet space. The tent is easily foldable and comes with a carry bag for on-the-go situations.

Pros:

1. Spacious Design: This tent offers enough room, making it suitable for people of all sizes.
2. Durable and Sturdy: When set up, the tent is robust and stays in place.
3. Versatile Usage: Can be used for changing, as an outdoor shower, a temporary toilet space, or even just to get some privacy during outdoor events.
4. Excellent Customer Service: The company stands behind its product and is willing to address issues promptly, as highlighted by Lori Wilkerson.
5. Additional Features: It has sand pockets, ensuring stability during windy conditions.

Cons:

1. Folding Difficulty: Many users found it challenging to fold the tent back into its carrying bag.
2. Lack of Interior Features: Users noticed the absence of hooks or storage options inside the tent.
3. Ventilation: The tent lacks proper ventilation, like a window or mesh, which can make it feel hot inside.
4. Carrying Strap Length: Some users wish the strap to carry the tent was longer or adjustable to be carried like a backpack.

What People Say:

1. The tent is appreciated for its spacious and sturdy design, making it a go-to choice for outdoor activities.
2. Folding the tent seems to be the most significant challenge faced by users. However, with practice, some found it more manageable.
3. The lack of interior hooks or storage is a drawback for those wanting to hang clothes or other items.
4. Users admire the tent’s versatility – from acting as a changing room during a photoshoot in a park to serving as a temporary shelter during beach outings.
5. The company’s customer service has been praised, especially for its prompt response to concerns and willingness to provide solutions.

SereneLife Portable Toilet

The SereneLife Portable Toilet is a convenient, lightweight, and user-friendly toilet solution designed for outdoor activities like camping, road-tripping, or any situation where a standard toilet might not be accessible. It comes equipped with a waste level indicator and flush mechanism, ensuring cleanliness and ease of use. This product includes a carrying bag, making it easy to transport.

Pros:

1. Portable and Lightweight: Many users find it easy to transport and carry.
2. Effective Waste Level Indicator: Changes from green to red to show the waste level.
3. Reliable Flush Mechanism: Helps in keeping the toilet clean.
4. Safe and Sturdy Design: It can accommodate users of varying weights without any issue.
5. Customer Service: The company provides prompt and efficient customer service in case of issues.
6. Easy Assembly and Disassembly: Makes the cleaning and maintenance processes straightforward.
7. Deodorizing Capability: Many users reported minimal smell, even while emptying the toilet.
8. Carrying Bag Included: For more convenient transportation.

Cons:

1. Difficulty in Complete Emptying: Some users reported challenges in completely emptying the toilet due to its design.
2. Potential for Unpleasant Splashback: During operation of the flapper valve, some users experienced waste splashing.
3. Initial Manufacturing Defects: Few users received a unit with a defect but got replacements quickly.
4. Cleaning Challenges: Solids might be tricky to clean completely.
5. Smell after Extended Use: Needs to be emptied every 2-3 days to prevent odor build-up.
6. Height Concerns: Might be low for taller users.
7. Made in China: A concern for one user.

What People Say:

1. Convenient for Camping: Many found it to be an essential addition to their camping gear, especially during times when using communal areas isn’t desirable.
2. User-Friendly: The toilet is easy to use, even for beginners, with a simple flushing system.
3. Customer Support: Most users who faced issues with the product praised the company’s efficient and swift customer service.
4. Cleaning and Maintenance: While many appreciated its easy-to-clean nature, some users highlighted the difficulty in completely emptying the toilet.
5. Safety and Sturdiness: Despite concerns from a few users about stability, the majority found the toilet to be sturdy and safe to use.
6. Odor Management: Users appreciated the minimal odor even after using it for a few days.
7. Recommendation: Most reviewers would recommend the product to others, especially for outdoor activities.

In conclusion, the SereneLife Portable Toilet appears to be a popular choice among campers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its portability and functionality receiving widespread praise. While there are some design improvements desired by users, the product’s benefits seem to outweigh its drawbacks.

Camco Toilet Bucket with Seat

The Camco Portable Toilet Bucket with Seat offers a convenient and practical solution for places without restroom facilities. This product provides the comfort of a toilet seat combined with the versatility of a standard 5-gallon bucket, making it an essential item for primitive camping or situations where conventional restrooms are not accessible.

Pros:

1. Versatile: Suitable for various users; both light and heavier individuals have found it to be reliable.
2. Comfortable: Designed to offer the experience of a real toilet even when one is in a primitive setting.
3. Sturdy: Durable build with an efficient lid.
4. Convenience: Can be paired with specific bags for easy disposal, and even household items like cat litter to reduce odor.
5. Removable Seat: The seat can be detached and reattached to another standard 5-gallon bucket, enhancing its longevity.

Cons:

1. Cleaning Challenges: The size of the bucket may make it challenging to clean in certain sinks.
2. Disposal Bags Issue: Some users did not receive the accompanying disposal bags. There also seem to be issues contacting support for the product.
3. Powder Issue with Bags: The powder inside the disposal bags can be problematic, with reports of it getting airborne, causing respiratory distress for some users.

What People Are Saying:

1. Highly Functional for Extended Camping: One user noted how it’s especially useful for extended periods of camping where pooping in a hole becomes less ideal. The seat is the main attraction since technically any bucket can serve as a toilet.
2. Lifesaver for Medical Issues: Individuals with particular health issues found it to be invaluable.
3. Ease of Cleaning: Users appreciate the accompanying bags and the option to use cat litter to make cleaning easier and reduce odor.
4. Reliability Issues with Accessories: Some buyers experienced issues with the disposal bags, either not receiving them or having problems with the powder inside.
5. Strong Build: Many reviews highlighted the product’s sturdiness and the convenience of the seat and lid.

 

Carex Folding Commode

The Carex Folding Commode is a versatile, foldable, and portable toilet solution designed for people with mobility issues or for situations where a standard restroom isn’t accessible. It provides a combination of functionality and convenience, making it a go-to option for those who need such facilities either temporarily or for an extended period.

Pros:

1. Easy Assembly: Numerous users pointed out that the product is easy to put together, with no tools required.
2. Portability: The folding feature makes it convenient to store and transport.
3. Sturdy Construction: Made from durable material to ensure it lasts for an extended period.
4. Versatility: Suitable for various users, from the elderly to individuals recovering from medical procedures.

Cons:

1. Lid Design: The lid is designed to fit the pot underneath rather than the seat, which some users find inconvenient, especially during nighttime use.
2. Comfort Issues for Some: The design might pinch some users when they sit, depending on their body structure.

What People Are Saying:

1. Design Improvement Needed: A notable concern raised by users is regarding the lid placement. This seems to be an old problem, and users wish the manufacturers would address it.
2. Simplicity is Key: Many users appreciate the hassle-free assembly process, emphasizing the fact that no tools are needed.
3. User Specific: While the product may work excellently for one person, there might be comfort issues for another, as evident from the review of the couple where the husband found it perfect, but the wife experienced discomfort.
4. General Satisfaction: Several reviews, while short, point towards a general satisfaction with the product. Whether it’s for personal use or for a loved one, many users seem content with their purchase.
5. Reliability for Short-Term Use: Some users highlighted its usefulness in short-term scenarios, like recovery from a medical procedure, appreciating its robustness and easy assembly.

How to choose a camping toilet

When it comes to selecting a camping toilet, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:

• Type of camping toilet: There are three main types of camping toilets: bucket, collapsible, and flushable. Bucket toilets are the simplest and cheapest option, but they offer the least comfort and convenience. They consist of a bucket with a seat and lid, and sometimes a bag to line the bucket. Collapsible toilets are more portable and usually include a seat and a waste bag. They can be folded up for easy transport and storage. Flushable toilets are the most advanced and hygienic option, but they are also the most expensive and bulky. They have a fresh water tank and a waste holding tank that can be flushed with a pump or an electric mechanism. They also have features like waste level indicator, rotating spout, double-sealed valve, and extra-large seat.
• Size and weight: The size and weight of the camping toilet affect its portability and storage. You want a toilet that is easy to carry and fit in your car or tent, but also sturdy and stable enough to support your weight. Generally, bucket toilets are the lightest and smallest, while flushable toilets are the heaviest and largest. Collapsible toilets are somewhere in between. You should also consider the size of the seat and the height of the toilet for your comfort.
• Capacity: The capacity of the camping toilet refers to how much waste it can hold before it needs to be emptied. This depends on the size of the waste holding tank (for flushable toilets) or the volume of the bucket or bag (for bucket or collapsible toilets). The larger the capacity, the less frequently you need to empty the toilet, but also the heavier and harder it will be to carry it to the disposal point. You should consider how many people will use the toilet and for how long, as well as the availability of disposal facilities nearby.
• Ease of use and maintenance: You want a camping toilet that is easy to use and maintain. Look for a toilet with clear instructions and a simple design. Additionally, consider the ease of cleaning and disposing of waste. Some toilets come with chemicals that help reduce odors, disinfect, and decompose waste, making it easier to empty and clean them. Others require you to use biodegradable bags that can be thrown away in any conventional toilet or trash bin. You should also check if the toilet has any parts that need to be replaced or repaired over time.
• Durability: You want a camping toilet that can withstand harsh conditions and frequent use. Look for a toilet that is made of durable materials like plastic or steel, that has a strong frame and a secure latch, and that has no leaks or cracks. You should also check the warranty period and customer service of the manufacturer in case you encounter any problems with your toilet.
• Privacy and comfort: You want a camping toilet that offers you privacy and comfort when you use it. Look for a toilet that has a lid or cover that can block any unpleasant sights or smells, as well as a seat that is comfortable and ergonomic. You should also consider getting a privacy tent or using an extra room in your tent to set up your toilet area. This way, you can avoid any awkward encounters with other campers or wildlife.
• Price: The price of the camping toilet depends on its type, features, quality, and brand. Generally, bucket toilets are the cheapest option, while flushable toilets are the most expensive option. Collapsible toilets are somewhere in between. You should consider your budget and your needs when choosing a camping toilet.

FAQ about camping toilet

Here are some common questions that people have about camping toilets:

• What are camping toilets called? Camping toilets have different names depending on their type and design. Some of the most common names are: portable toilets, chemical toilets, cassette toilets, bucket toilets, collapsible toilets, flushable toilets, Porta Pottis (a brand name), etc.
• Where do you empty camping toilets? Camping toilets should be emptied at designated disposal points that are available at most campsites or RV parks. These are usually marked with signs like “chemical disposal point” or “sanitary station”. You should never dump your waste outdoors or in household toilets, as this could harm the environment and incur fines. You should also follow the instructions of the toilet manufacturer and the campsite owner on how to empty and clean your toilet properly.
• Which camping toilet is best? The best camping toilet depends on your personal preference, needs, and situation. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, as different toilets have different pros and cons. You should consider the factors we mentioned above, such as type, size, weight, capacity, ease of use, durability, privacy, comfort, and price, and compare different products to find the one that suits you best.
• Are portable camping toilets worth it? Portable camping toilets can be worth it if you value convenience, comfort, and hygiene when camping. They can save you from having to use shared facilities that may be dirty, crowded, or far away. They can also give you more privacy and flexibility when choosing your campsite location. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as taking up space, requiring maintenance, and needing disposal. You should weigh the benefits and costs of having a portable camping toilet before buying one.

 

Conclusion: The Best Camping Toilets

Camping toilets are essential for any outdoor adventure that requires you to stay away from civilization for a while. They provide you with convenience, comfort, and hygiene when you need to answer nature’s call. Depending on your budget, preference, and situation, you can choose from different types of camping toilets that offer different features and benefits.

We hope this article has helped you find the best camping toilet for your needs. Whether you need a simple bucket toilet, a folding commode, or a portable flushing toilet, we have reviewed some of the best products on the market for you. Happy camping!