Let's Talk Toilets for Vans: Best Campervan Toilet Options for Vanlife
To build a conversion van with a bathroom toilet or to skip it altogether… that’s the question we’re going to be answering! Whether you want to know the most popular toilets for vans or the least smelly options, we’re diving into all your campervan toilet options to make life on the road a more enjoyable experience.
Top Campervan Toilet Options
When it comes to handling “bathroom business” on the road, there are plenty of simple and creative camper van toilet ideas to suit your adventurous lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options for a conversion van with a bathroom toilet to help you decide what works best for your van build!
Cassette Toilets for Vans
A cassette toilet is a built-in unit with a small, removable waste tank. It functions much like a home toilet, using a flush system (manual or electric) to keep things clean. You can easily remove the tank for emptying at a dedicated facility, which is convenient when traveling in urban areas or RV parks.
Pros:
Compact and easy to install.
Convenient for regular use.
Simple to empty at designated dump sites.
Cons:
Limited waste capacity, so frequent emptying is required.
Needs special chemicals to control odors.
Portable Toilets for Vans
Camper van portable toilets, like chemical camping toilets, are a freestanding option. These toilets have a two-part system with a top section for clean water and a bottom section to hold waste. They’re lightweight, affordable, and perfect for smaller campervans.
In particular, the SEAFLO Premium Portable Travel Toilet is an affordable option that’s easy to use. We install these the most for our custom van build customers!
Pros:
Budget-friendly and portable.
Easy to use and clean.
No need for permanent installation.
Cons:
Smaller capacity means frequent emptying.
May require chemicals to manage odors.
Composting Toilets for Vans
A van conversion composting toilet is an eco-friendly option that uses natural processes to break down waste into compost. These toilets separate liquids and solids to reduce smells and are self-contained, so you don’t need access to sewage facilities.
Our current favorite is the TRELINO Composting Toilet because it’s easy to clean and can be considered portable. For full-time vanlifers, we recommend Nature's Head Self-Contained Composting Toilet. It needs power and a permanent space, which makes it an excellent choice for people who live in their vans.
Pros:
Environmentally friendly.
Longer intervals between emptying solids.
No chemicals required.
Cons:
Larger and heavier than other options.
Higher upfront cost.
Requires regular maintenance of the composting materials.
Bucket Toilets for Vans
Bucket toilets are as simple as they get. They’re just a sturdy bucket lined with a disposable bag. After use, you seal the bag and toss it in the trash, making this option popular for vanlifers who want low-tech solutions.
For a great option that doesn’t look like a Home Depot bucket, check out the Ann Katy Portable Toilet.
Pros:
Extremely affordable and lightweight.
No installation required.
Minimal maintenance.
Cons:
Not the most comfortable or hygienic.
Needs frequent disposal of waste bags.
Built-In RV Toilets for Vans
For those opting for a luxury build, a built-in RV toilet can provide full comfort. These are permanently plumbed into your van and connected to a large black water tank, much like in a traditional RV.
Another option that we install often is the Laveo Dry Flush Toilet. You can get multiple uses out of it, and it’s easy to clean and dispose of. We do recommend a permanent installation location due to its power requirements.
Pros:
High comfort and convenience.
Can hold more waste than smaller portable options.
Mimics a home bathroom experience.
Cons:
Most expensive and complex to install.
Requires access to dump stations.
Takes up a significant amount of space in your van.
There are quite a few van conversion toilet ideas, and choosing the right option depends on your budget, available space, and travel style.
Is It Worth Having a Toilet in a Campervan?
A conversion van with bathroom toilet options can be a game-changer. If you love camping off-grid or traveling long stretches without guaranteed access to rest stops, a built-in toilet offers convenience and peace of mind. It’s great for families or anyone who values privacy during those moments, and it helps you stay closer to nature without compromising on basic needs. Plus, in bad weather or at night, you won’t have to venture outside, making it especially useful in remote or unpredictable conditions.
On the other hand, having a custom van with a toilet isn’t always worth the expense or the space it takes up. Toilets require regular maintenance, like emptying waste tanks or managing compost, which can be a hassle. They also take up valuable room that could be used for extra storage or sleeping arrangements. If you tend to stay in areas with plenty of public facilities or prioritize a more minimalist setup, you might find a van toilet to be more trouble than it’s worth. It really depends on your travel style and how much you’re willing to manage on the road.
What Kind of Toilet Is Best for a Campervan?
While the “best” really depends on your situation, the most popular choice is a van conversion composting toilet, for good reason. They are self-contained, eco-friendly, and don’t require a large freshwater system or black water tank. They’re ideal for off-grid adventures because you don’t need hookups or frequent dumping stations. While the upfront cost might be higher than other options, the convenience and efficiency of a composting toilet make it a favorite among vanlifers.
Do Toilets in Campervans Smell?
Generally, campervan toilets don’t have to smell if you use them correctly and maintain them well. Many systems, like composting or cassette toilets, are designed to minimize odors with proper ventilation, sealing, and waste separation. However, poor upkeep or using the wrong cleaning supplies can sometimes cause unpleasant smells. With a little care, you can keep things fresh!
What Is the Least Smelly Toilet for Campervans?
Composting toilets are often considered the least smelly option for campervans. Their ventilation system works to pull odors away, while the separation of liquids and solids greatly reduces the chance of foul smells developing. Plus, the use of composting material, like sawdust or coconut coir, helps absorb odors naturally. Investing in a good composting toilet is well worth it if you're worried about smell.
Our Top Tips for Building a Custom Van with a Toilet
At Vanlife Customs, we know adding space for a toilet to your van can feel like a big challenge, but it can be totally worth it when you get it right. Here are our top tips to help you get started.
Plan Your Space Wisely: Toilets and bathroom setups take up valuable room in your van, so plan carefully. Start by deciding what kind of toilet works for you among the top campervan toilet options. Consider camper van bathroom kits, as they often come with pre-measured components to make installation easier. Keep in mind that compact designs save precious room for other essentials.
Prioritize Ventilation and Plumbing: A well-ventilated bathroom station is a must to avoid moisture buildup or unpleasant smells. If you’re going for a composting toilet, proper ventilation is key to keeping things fresh. For plumbed setups, design your water tank and drainage system in a way that prevents leaks or blockages during your adventures.
Think About Ease of Use: Whether you prefer a portable toilet or a more permanent bathroom, think about how easy it’ll be to clean and maintain. Camper van bathroom kits can simplify installation, but you’ll still want to ensure emptying, refilling, or repairing your systems won’t become a hassle on the road. Simplicity and functionality go a long way!
Let Us Bring Your Camper Van Toilet Ideas To Life
At Vanlife Customs, we’re here to help you figure out if adding a toilet is the right move for your camper van design. Our custom build process includes talking through your specific needs to decide if a toilet makes sense, where it should go, and which type fits your lifestyle best. With years of experience and a knack for asking the right questions, we’ll make sure your setup is functional, efficient, and tailored just for you. Ready to hit the road in the perfect custom conversion van? Learn more about building your dream van today!
.