Let’s be honest – nothing kills the camping buzz faster than a 3am trek to a freezing, muddy toilet block. I’ve done the soggy sock shuffle in the dark too many times, and after one particularly grim night in Snowdonia, I made a vow: never again without a proper camping loo.
A reliable portable toilet isn’t posh; it’s basic comfort and sanity, especially with kids, remote spots, or wet weather.
In this guide, I’ll share the best options out there, real-world pros and cons, and what features are actually worth it, so you can stay dry, clean, and comfortable out in the wild. Let’s dive in (not literally).
Top Portable Camping Toilets: A Quick Comparison

Thetford 565E
Best For: Luxury & comfort
Capacity: 21L waste
Flush Type: Electric
Weight: 6kg
Key Feature: Electric flush, toilet roll hatch

CampingGaz Portable Toilet
Best For: Large groups / long trips
Capacity: 20L waste, 16L flush
Flush Type: Manual
Weight: 5.3kg
Key Feature: Antibacterial coating, easy carry handles

Thetford Qube 335
Best For: Compact spaces
Capacity: 10L waste, 10L flush
Flush Type: Manual
Weight: Lightweight
Key Feature: Fits in VW-size campervans

Carplife Bivvy Loo
Best For: Simplicity & eco-friendliness
Capacity: Bag-based
Flush Type: None
Weight: Very light
Key Feature: Biodegradable liner bags with gel powder

Nature Calls Composting Toilet
Best For: Eco-conscious campers
Capacity: 7.5L solids, 8L liquids
Flush Type: None
Weight: 7.8kg
Key Feature: Composting design, no chemicals needed

Hi-Gear Portable Toilet
Best For: Tight budgets
Capacity: Bucket-style
Flush Type: None
Weight: 4.84kg
Key Feature: Looks like a stool, great value

Triptips Portable Loo
Best For: Ultracompact packing
Capacity: Bag-based
Flush Type: None
Weight: Very light
Key Feature: Folds down to 8.4cm

Sfeomi Camping Toilet
Best For: Budget flush option
Capacity: 10L waste, 10L flush
Flush Type: Manual
Weight: —
Key Feature: Affordable Thetford alternative
Top Portable Camping Toilets for Outdoor Adventures
Having tested (and got let down by) my fair share, here are proven winners. Some are luxury, some cheap as chips, but all are road-and-rain tested by seasoned campers.
1. Thetford 565E – Best Luxury Camping Toilet

One of my mates owns this beast of a loo, and honestly, every time I see it, a small part of me wishes I’d brought one too. The Thetford 565E is what happens when a toilet gets the VIP treatment. Electric flush, level indicators, a generous 21-litre waste tank, and even a hidden toilet roll compartment – this thing has it all. It runs on 4 AAA batteries and weighs about 6kg when empty, which makes it one of the heaviest portable models out there, but you definitely get what you pay for.
The best part? It actually feels like a proper toilet. High seat, sturdy build – you could almost convince yourself you're back at home, or in a very posh caravan. I’ve sat on it (not while it was in use, don’t worry) and genuinely started humming Elvis tunes… before quickly remembering how he went out. You get the point though – it’s that comfortable.
Of course, not everyone has the boot space for this throne. If your car’s already packed tighter than a tin of beans, you might want to consider something smaller. But if comfort, cleanliness, and convenience matter, and you don’t mind a bit of luxury at the campsite, this is a cracking choice.
Pros
- Electric flush and level indicators
- Feels like a real toilet
- Hidden loo roll compartment
- High seat and solid build
Cons
- Bulky and takes up space
- Heavier than most
- A bit pricey for casual campers
2. Campingaz Portable Toilet – Best for Large Groups or Long Trips

If you're camping with the family, going off-grid for a while, or just don’t fancy late-night runs to the shared toilets, the Campingaz Portable Toilet is a brilliant pick. It’s chunkier than most, sure – but what you lose in compactness, you gain in comfort and sheer practicality.
It’s split into two parts: a clean water tank and seat section (with manual flush), and a 20-litre waste tank underneath. Both parts have carry handles, which is a godsend when hauling it to and from the car – or the dreaded waste disposal point. Bonus points for the redesign, too – older versions had a dodgy seal issue, but the new model is rock solid, easy to clean, and way more pleasant to use.
We loved the sitting height – about 41cm – so no awkward crouching like a toddler. Plus, the antibacterial coating on contact surfaces adds a nice hygienic touch, especially when it’s being shared by a group. The 16-litre flush tank gets you over 20 uses, and you won’t be emptying it every day either. It’s practical, sturdy, and great value.
Pros
- Great for families and long trips
- Generous waste and flush tank capacity
- Comfortable sitting height
- Easy to transport and empty
Cons
- Bulky and takes up room
- Manual flush only
3. Thetford Qube 335 – Best Small Camping Toilet

If you’re short on space but still want a proper loo setup, the Thetford Qube 335 is a real winner. It’s compact, cleverly designed, and fits neatly into small campervan cupboards (I’ve tried it in a VW Transporter and it tucks away nicely).
Despite its small size, it still offers a 10L flush tank and a 10L waste tank – enough to last a family of three a couple of days. The manual flush works with a simple squeeze, and everything stays sealed and secure thanks to a reliable mechanical seal.
We’ve used this little toilet in rain, mud, and chill, and it never let us down. Plus, the build quality is solid, and it doesn’t leak. Emptying it isn’t glamorous (is it ever?), but the angled spout helps avoid splash disasters. If you're looking for something discreet, functional, and easy to use, this is a cracking mini-loo.
Pros
- Very compact and easy to store
- Simple manual flush system
- Leak-proof and well-built
- Ideal for small campervans
Cons
- Small capacity means more frequent emptying
- Emptying can be a bit awkward
- Harder to find in stock sometimes
4. Carplife Bivvy Loo – Best Simple ‘Bucket’ Toilet

Sometimes, simplicity is everything. The Carplife Bivvy Loo doesn’t mess about. It’s a bucket-style toilet that folds flat, pops up when needed, and gets the job done without any fancy bits.
Originally made for anglers, this no-fuss loo works just as well for campers. It comes with a set of biodegradable liner bags that neutralise waste using a gel powder. That means no chemicals, no flushing, and no Elsan point required – just tie it up and bin it.
It supports up to 23 stone and packs into a bag that’s just 8cm thick – perfect for stuffing into tight car boots or tents. There’s nothing electric or mechanical to go wrong here, and cleaning is a breeze. If you want a hassle-free, packable option for emergencies or short trips, this one’s a gem.
Pros
- Extremely compact and easy to store
- Fast and simple to set up
- Comes with biodegradable liners
- No flushing, no leaks, no faff
Cons
- Not ideal for long trips
- No privacy or splash protection
- You’ll need to keep buying liner bags
5. Nature Calls Composting Toilet – Best Eco Option

For those who want to camp with a greener conscience, the Nature Calls Composting Toilet is a seriously impressive bit of kit. It separates liquids and solids, doesn’t use any chemicals, and helps you start the composting process with just sawdust or peat.
It’s chunky, yes – but it’s built to last and surprisingly comfy to sit on (up to 200kg load). This is a great choice for short-term eco-camping or festivals where you can take your waste home and compost it properly. Just be aware, it’s not designed for long campsite stays where disposal might be tricky.
It’s not the cheapest either, but you’re paying for the eco factor, build quality, and the peace of mind that comes with zero pollution.
Pros
- Completely chemical-free
- Strong, stable and durable build
- Eco-friendly disposal of waste
- Decent size and capacity
Cons
- Not suitable for long campsite stays
- Higher price tag
6. Hi-Gear Portable Camping Toilet – Budget Pick

If you just need a simple solution without spending loads, the Hi-Gear Portable Toilet ticks all the boxes. It looks like a stool, costs around £20, and gives you a decent toilet experience without the bells and whistles.
Inside the lid is a proper toilet seat and a removable bucket that you can line or clean as needed. There are carry handles on the sides, and it’s surprisingly sturdy for the price.
It doesn’t fold down, and it’s not the easiest to clean with all its little bits and lids, but for the cost, it’s hard to complain. It’s a brilliant budget pick for casual campers, kids in the garden, or emergency backup on road trips.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Easy to use
- Discreet design
- Can be used with or without liners
Cons
- Bulky and not collapsible
- Fiddly to clean
The Best Compact & Collapsible Toilets
7. Triptips Portable Loo – Best for Ultra-Compact Storage

If saving space is your top priority, the Triptips Portable Loo deserves a serious look. It’s one of those clever seat-plus-cylinder designs that pop up when needed and collapse into a neat 8.4cm disc when not. Ideal for car campers, van-lifers, or even festivals where you don’t want to lug bulky kit around.
The seat itself is surprisingly comfortable, with a waterproof wipe-clean surface that feels far less flimsy than you’d expect for something so lightweight. It’s rated to handle up to 100kg (around 15st 10lbs), so keep that in mind if you're on the heavier side – it’s best not to push your luck on this one.
The downside? It doesn’t come with any liner bags, so you’ll need to grab your own. Still, paired with the right liners (biodegradable if you’re feeling green), the Triptips loo is a nifty solution for those who want something compact, convenient, and ready to go at a moment’s notice.
Pros
- Collapses down to just 8.4cm for easy storage
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Wipe-clean waterproof seat
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Lower weight limit (not suitable for everyone)
- No liner bags included
- Not suitable for extended use or bigger groups
8. Sfeomi Camping Toilet – Best Budget Alternative to Thetford

Looking for a budget-friendly portable toilet that still delivers the full flush-and-sit experience? The Sfeomi Camping Toilet might just surprise you. With a 20L capacity (10L flush + 10L waste), a manual flush pump, and sturdy design, it holds its own against pricier options like Thetford.
We’ve tested one borrowed from friends who swear by it – it’s reliable, leak-proof, and surprisingly solid for the price. You don’t get the premium branding, but functionally, it does everything most campers will ever need. Whether you’re on a long weekend trip or have kids who aren’t keen on dashing to campsite toilets in the dark, this is a solid backup.
It may not come with the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but you’re paying nearly half the price. If you want a loo that works without draining your gear budget, the Sfeomi is well worth a punt.
Pros
- Excellent value for a flush-style toilet
- Manual flush and 20L total capacity
- Easy to carry and use
- Good for short and mid-length trips
Cons
- Bulkier than collapsible toilets
- Lacks premium finishes or design
- Still needs careful cleaning and maintenance
What to Check Before Buying a Portable Camping Toilet?
1. Size and Capacity
If you’re just one or two people, you can get away with a smaller unit. Families or anyone staying more than a night? You’ll want a bigger waste tank – less emptying, less hassle, and less risk of an awkward overflow.
2. Portability
There’s nothing worse than wrestling a clunky loo up muddy steps or in a storm. Check the weight before you buy, especially empty. Collapsible or lightweight models make sense if boot space is tight.
3. Ease of Use
Fiddly catches and tricky flushes are a nightmare in the dark or cold. Look for simple levers, clear indicators, and a seat height that feels similar to home.
4. Cleaning
You’ll be emptying and rinsing these, probably with numb fingers at a grim Elsan point. Smooth plastics, spouts, and easy-carry tanks make life much easier.
5. Odour Control
Good rubber seals and compatible chemicals or liners save you from nasty whiffs, even after a weekend heatwave.
6. Durability
Cheap taps, weak handles, and thin seats are a false economy. Go for solid plastics or strong hinges. This is gear you’ll want to last more than one soggy festival.
Easy Cleaning and Smell Control: Pro Tips
Nothing sours a trip like the stink of old waste. Use non-abrasive cleaners (I use a cheap washing up liquid and hot water after each trip). Deodorising treatments like Camco TST Drop-Ins work well and are chemical-free, but check what your local disposal point allows.
If using bag or bucket systems, get gel-filled, biodegradable liners. They soak up moisture and kill smells instantly. Always take a few spares – midges and heat make a big difference.
When emptying, wear gloves – it’s never fun, but decent gear means you’re done fast, not fighting foul leaks in a rainstorm.
Final Note: Comfort is Worth It
Don’t be fooled into thinking a portable toilet is overkill for camping. It’s one of those bits of gear – like a good sleeping bag or stormproof tent – that makes or breaks your trip.
Pick the right size for your group, vehicle, and trip length. If you’ve got kids or are wild camping for days, go bigger. Car campers or festival goers? You’ll be fine with the simple options.
I wouldn’t camp in the UK, especially in grim weather or far-flung places, without one. Trust a fellow camper with cold, muddy, midnight stories – sort your toilet, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without.
For more practical kit lists and no-BS camping tips, check out my other guides or leave a comment with your own muddy tale.