Camper Toilets
The bathroom question is one of the biggest concerns when converting a van. Having your own toilet provides complete independence and avoids relying on gas stations or RV dump stations. The three main technologies are composting (dry) toilets, cassette toilets, and portable chemical toilets. Each has its ideal audience depending on available space, trip duration, and personal preferences.
Comparison
| Option | Type | Price | Weight | Performance | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Composting Toilet (Nature's Head / Trelino style) | Composting | $450 - $1,100 | 8 kg | Long-term travelers who prioritize sustainability and self-sufficiency | |
| DIY Composting Toilet (separator + bucket) | Composting DIY | $30 - $130 | 3 kg | Very tight budgets or as a temporary solution to test the system | |
| Cassette Toilet (Thetford C200/C400 style) | Cassette | $270 - $650 | 5 kg | Those coming from the RV world who prefer a home-toilet-like experience | |
| Portable Chemical Toilet (Thetford Porta Potti 365 style) | Portable Chemical | $65 - $160 | 4 kg | Beginners, low budgets, or as a temporary solution before installing a composting toilet |
Composting Toilet (Nature's Head / Trelino style)
Composting
- Eco-friendly: no chemicals, waste composts naturally
- Odor-free when used correctly with 12V fan and urine diverter
- Easy disposal: dry solids can be thrown away as organic waste every 3-6 weeks
- No need to find special chemical dump stations
- High price: brand-name models cost $450-$1,100
- Requires substrate (coconut coir) that needs periodic replenishing
- Needs an exhaust fan (12V, low power) to prevent odors
- Learning curve: you need to get used to separating liquids from solids
DIY Composting Toilet (separator + bucket)
Composting DIY
- Minimal cost: can be built with a bucket, separator, and lid for under $50
- Customizable to the space available in your van
- Same eco-friendly principle as commercial models
- Lightweight and easy to disassemble for cleaning
- Less professional appearance and basic finish
- Less comfortable than commercial models with ergonomic seats
- DIY urine diverter may be less efficient
- Requires time and skill to build properly
Cassette Toilet (Thetford C200/C400 style)
Cassette
- Proven system widely used in factory-built RVs
- Familiar use: works like a home toilet with water flush
- Removable cassette accessible from outside for discreet emptying
- Models with fill-level indicator available
- Requires chemical liquid to break down waste (recurring cost ~$5/month)
- Needs specific dump points at RV parks and campgrounds
- Uses water from your tank for each flush
- Full cassette weighs 33-44 lbs and must be carried to the dump point
Portable Chemical Toilet (Thetford Porta Potti 365 style)
Portable Chemical
- Most affordable flush-type option: starting from $65
- Portable and compact: can be stored under the bed or in a cabinet
- No installation required: ready to use from day one
- Fill-level indicator on most models
- Limited capacity: needs emptying every 2-4 days for one person
- Requires chemical liquid (ongoing cost and environmental impact)
- Less convenient emptying: must carry the entire unit to the dump point
- May shift during driving if not properly secured
Best for...
Best value
DIY Composting Toilet (separator + bucket)
Best overall
Composting Toilet (Nature's Head / Trelino style)
Best for small vans
Portable Chemical Toilet (Thetford Porta Potti 365 style)
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