Toilets on a road trip:
Which option to choose between comfort and respect for nature?
Ah, the joys of vanlife! Driving with the wind in your hair, falling asleep under a starry sky... and finding yourself in the middle of nature with... an urgent need.
Toilets are often the biggest concern for travelers , especially those who are hesitant to embark on Vanlife (if this is you, you are not alone...).
So, don't panic , there are several solutions for doing your business in peace (and even with a little comfort!) and as it's a super important subject for a successful road trip , we have grouped together, in this blog article, all the options and accessories available to you for a successful pee break!
The 4 options for portable toilets |
We present 4 restroom options to manage your road trip needs!
Here's an overview of the portable toilets that will revolutionize your technical breaks: between practicality, discretion and respect for the environment, there's bound to be a solution that suits you.
1. Separation dry toilets
Separation dry toilets are a model of ecological toilets which use a system of separation of urine and solid matter .
When used, sawdust or wood shavings are added to cover the excrement, which helps neutralize odors . This type of toilet is often used in contexts where the use of drinking water is limited or where one wishes to reduce one's environmental impact . They do not consume water to flush waste, which is a big advantage for regions suffering from water shortages.
- Advantages: Space-saving, easy to use, environmentally friendly.
- Disadvantages: Requires dedicated storage and space as well as regular maintenance.
Find all our dry toilets on our e-shop!
2. Chemical toilets
Chemical toilets work through a system where a tank contains chemicals designed to break down human waste .
Chemicals, often in liquid or powder form , neutralize odors and accelerate the breakdown of solids .
- Advantages: Practical, easy to transport.
- Disadvantages: Regular emptying in dedicated areas. Use of chemicals to break down waste.
3. Foldable toilets
Folding toilets are a portable and compact solution ideal for small spaces (converted vans, camper vans).
These foldable toilets are designed with a lightweight, foldable structure , allowing for easy storage and great mobility . They work with biodegradable bags that collect waste, eliminating the need for tanks or composting. Sawdust or chemical powder can be used to absorb liquids . Once the bag is full, it can be sealed and disposed of in a suitable bin .
- Advantages: Lightweight and economical. Easy to transport, install and store.
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Disadvantages: Requires frequent replacement of bags.
Find our entire range of folding toilets on our e-shop!
4. The traditional method: Shovel and bag
To do this, here are some practical tips:
- Stay away from water points (60 meters minimum) to prevent any risk of contamination.
- Dig a hole to bury your waste.
To avoid leaving any traces, use a small shovel to dig a hole 15 to 20 cm deep (reaching the organic layer) so that your waste can decompose properly. Once finished, carefully cover the hole.
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Bring toilet paper home in a resealable bag . Even if it is biodegradable, it takes time to decompose in nature.
Did you know? Buried toilet paper can take more than 2 months to completely degrade underground.
In fragile environments, such as mountain peaks or deserts, where decomposition is slower, choose solutions that allow you to take your waste back with you.
Find our compact mini shovels and biodegradable bags on our e-shop!
Additional equipment |
Here are some additional equipment and accessories to guarantee your comfort, practicality and respect for the environment.
1. A foldable shower/toilet cubicle for more privacy
They are easy to set up , space-saving when folded and can be used for a variety of activities , such as changing, showering or using a portable toilet.
Find our folding shower cabins on our e-shop!
2. Biodegradable bags for quick and clean cleaning
These bags are often made from natural materials that decompose quickly, ensuring they do not affect nature when disposed of properly.
Find all our biodegradable bags for dry toilets on our e-shop!
3. Biodegradable toilet paper
Biodegradable toilet paper is designed to decompose easily in the environment without harming flora and fauna . It is an essential product for those looking to combine comfort and respect for nature.
Our latest advice |
1. Think about your storage space
Before choosing, assess the space available in your vehicle or camping gear. Some showers and toilets are foldable or compact, ideal for small spaces.
2. Download apps to find public restrooms nearby
During your adventures, you may need to find a public restroom. Good news: there are mobile apps to help you locate nearby public restrooms , whether in cities or out in the wilderness.
Popular apps include Toilet Finder , Flush , and Park4Night , which are popular with vanlife and camping enthusiasts.
> Discover on our blog the list of useful applications for vanlife and camping trips:
3. Practical tips to avoid odors
Place a small cotton ball soaked in a few drops of your favorite essential oil into the separator tray. The pleasant scent of the essential oil will mask other odors until the next cleaning or emptying.
Essential oils like lavender, tea tree, or lemon work great!
Last but not least:
4. Keep your equipment clean
Clean your shower and toilet facilities regularly to prevent unpleasant odors and/or bacteria build-up.
Also take care to properly ventilate the storage areas for your equipment to avoid humidity, which can cause long-term problems.
With all these practical tips and tricks, we hope you now feel ready to face the inevitable... and manage your needs with peace of mind during your vanlife or camping adventures!
Whether you opt for a dry separation toilet , a chemical toilet , a clever folding toilet or even the traditional method (scoop + plastic bag) , the main thing is to respect nature while taking care of your comfort (and your nose!).
Don't forget to consider storage space, explore apps to locate public restrooms, and incorporate a few small tips to avoid unpleasant odors.
Every road trip is an adventure, and every bathroom break is part of the journey ! So, we wish you many wonderful adventures on the road (with emergency breaks in complete peace and quiet!).
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