9 Best Portable Camping Toilets (October 2026)
The best portable camping toilets include the Thetford Porta Potti 365 for compact car camping, the Camco 5.3 Gallon Portable Toilet for detachable-tank trips, and the Thetford Porta Potti 345 for low-clearance storage.
On this page (7 sections)
- How we chose portable camping toilets
- Portable camping toilet comparison
- The best portable camping toilets
- How do you choose a portable camping toilet?
- How do you set up and care for a portable camping toilet?
- What mistakes should you avoid with a camping toilet?
- Which portable camping toilet should you choose?
The Thetford Porta Potti 365 is a practical portable camping toilet for car campers who want a manual piston flush and a self-contained setup. Camco suits campers who prioritize a detachable waste tank, Kohree offers a larger stated waste capacity, and the foldable kit combines a toilet with privacy gear.
Before choosing, decide where the toilet will sit, how often you can empty it and whether you want a reusable tank system or a bag-based option. Those decisions matter more than a long feature list because they shape daily use at camp.
For other first-trip essentials, see our camping essentials list for beginners. If you need to fit a toilet and the rest of your gear in a vehicle, our guide to packing a car for camping can help.
Our picks at a glance
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Check itKohree 5.8 Gallon Portable Toilet
Best for longer stays - 5
Check itThetford Porta Potti 565E Curve
Best for powered campsites - 6
Best for occasional outingsCheck it - 7
Best for roomy seatingCheck it - 8
Check itSEAFLO 5.8 Gallon Camping Toilet
Best for short storage bays - 9
Check itCamping Toilet Kit with Pop-Up Privacy Tent
Best for private campsites
How we chose portable camping toilets
We compared tank capacity, flushing method, emptying features, dimensions and included privacy gear. Each product fits a different setup, from a low storage bay to a campsite where a detachable tank is easier to carry to a disposal point.
The scores reflect how closely each toilet’s features match common camping needs. A compact manual model ranks well for straightforward car camping, while a folding kit makes more sense when privacy gear and a light pack matter most.
Portable camping toilet comparison
The biggest differences are how each toilet stores and releases waste, how it flushes, and how much room it takes. Use the table to narrow your choices, then check the measurements against the actual place where you plan to store and use it.
| Product | Best for | Flush | Dimensions | Net weight | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thetford Porta Potti 365 | compact car camping | Piston pump | 16.81 x 15.08 x 16.3 in | 4 kg | 9.0 |
| Camco 5.3 Gallon Portable Toilet | detachable-tank trips | 16.25 x 14 x 17 in | 8.8 | ||
| Thetford Porta Potti 345 | low-clearance storage | 16.81 x 15.08 x 12.99 in | 8.5 | ||
| Kohree 5.8 Gallon Portable Toilet | longer stays | 14.4 x 16.3 x 16.3 in | 8.3 | ||
| Thetford Porta Potti 565E Curve | powered campsites | 17.72 x 15.28 x 17.64 in | 8.1 | ||
| Thetford Porta Potti 135 | occasional outings | 13.54 x 15.12 x 12.13 in | 7.9 | ||
| Camco Premium Travel Toilet | roomy seating | 18.5 x 16.3 x 17.1 in | 7.4 | ||
| SEAFLO 5.8 Gallon Camping Toilet | short storage bays | 13.9 x 15.9 x 11.9 in | 7.2 | ||
| Camping Toilet Kit with Pop-Up Privacy Tent | private campsites | 7.0 |
The best portable camping toilets
The right choice depends on your group, storage space and waste plan. These picks are ordered by score, but the best fit for your trip may be the one with the tank style or footprint you can manage.
Thetford Porta Potti 365: Best for compact car camping
- Piston pump
- 4 kg net weight
- 16.81 x 15.08 x 16.3 in
The piston pump and compact dimensions suit campers who want a self-contained toilet with a manual flush.
Pros
- Piston pump
- Compact dimensions
- 4 kg net weight
Cons
- Tank capacities aren't specified
- No level indicator details are available
The Porta Potti 365 pairs a manual piston pump with a footprint that can work for vehicle-based camping. It measures 16.81 in deep, 15.08 in wide and 16.3 in high, so compare all three measurements with your storage space.
Its net weight is 4 kg. That makes it easier to plan around than a model whose weight is unclear, but remember that the occupied space and carrying route matter too.
Tank capacities and a level indicator are not specified for this model. If you need a known capacity or a visible fill cue, the 345 and Kohree give more information to plan around.
Choose it for car camping when you want a manual piston flush. Read our Thetford Porta Potti 365 review for a closer look at its features.
Camco 5.3 Gallon Portable Toilet: Best for detachable-tank trips
- 5.3-gallon detachable holding tank
- 2.5-gallon top tank
- Bellows pump flush
The detachable 5.3-gallon holding tank and bellows pump suit campers who want separate fresh-water and waste tanks with a manual flush.
Pros
- Detachable holding tank
- Bellows-type flush
- Sealing slide valve
Cons
- Larger than the smallest options here
- The tank adds weight when full
Camco separates its 5.3-gallon waste tank from a 2.5-gallon top tank. A bellows pump supplies the flush, and the sealing slide valve closes the holding tank.
It measures 16.25 in deep, 14 in wide and 17 in high. Camco gives it a 330 lb support limit and includes a carry handle, which helps when moving it empty.
This is a sensible pick for RV camping, car camping and road trips when you can carry the detached tank to an approved disposal point. Skip it if your storage space is very tight or you don't have a suitable place to empty a holding tank.
Choose it for the straightforward detachable-tank setup. Our guide to using a portable camping toilet explains the basic routine before your first trip.
Thetford Porta Potti 345: Best for low-clearance storage
- Piston pump
- 12 L waste tank
- 15 L flush-water tank
The lower height and stated tank capacities suit spaces where vertical room matters and you want a manual piston pump.
Pros
- Lower profile than the 365
- Waste-tank level indicator
- Piston pump
Cons
- No flush-water level indicator
- The lower height may feel less like a home toilet
The Porta Potti 345 suits campers who need a shorter toilet but still want separate flush water and waste storage. It stands 12.99 in high and has a 12 L waste tank, a 15 L flush-water tank and a piston pump.
The waste tank has a level indicator, while the flush-water tank does not. Its depth and width are the same as the 365, so it saves vertical space without becoming a narrow model.
Pick it for a low shelf or storage bay, especially if a visible waste-level cue matters. Skip it if you need a slim footprint or want both tank levels displayed; the indicator covers waste only.
Choose it when height is the main storage limit. See our 365 vs 345 comparison for the differences between these two models.
Kohree 5.8 Gallon Portable Toilet: Best for longer stays
- 5.8-gallon waste capacity
- 3.2-gallon fresh-water capacity
- Waste level indicator
The 5.8-gallon waste capacity and level indicator suit campers who want a larger holding tank and a visible cue for when to empty.
Pros
- Waste-tank level indicator
- Detachable waste tank
- Carrying handle
Cons
- Heavier than several picks here at 14 lb
- Requires space for its 16.3 in height
Kohree is a strong match for campers who want a larger waste tank and a level indicator. Its 5.8-gallon waste capacity pairs with a 3.2-gallon fresh-water tank.
Two side latches detach the waste tank, and a rotating pour spout is designed for emptying. The toilet measures 14.4 x 16.3 x 16.3 in, weighs 14 lb and has a stated 440 lb capacity.
The extra capacity can reduce how often you need to empty compared with a smaller tank, but it also means planning for more weight when full. Choose it for longer stays or a group that needs more holding capacity; skip it if you want a particularly light toilet to carry.
Choose it when tank capacity and a visible fill cue matter. Our guide to emptying a portable camping toilet covers the disposal step to plan before departure.
Thetford Porta Potti 565E Curve: Best for powered campsites
- Electric flush
- 21 L waste tank
- 15 L flush-water tank
The electric flush and 21 L waste tank may suit campers who prioritize these features and can accommodate this model's dimensions.
Pros
- Electric flushing system
- Waste-tank level indicator
- Flush-water level indicator
Cons
- Needs a power source for electric flushing
- Larger than the smaller Thetford models
The Porta Potti 565E Curve is for campers who want an electric flush and indicators for both tanks. It has a 21 L waste tank and a 15 L flush-water tank, with a level indicator for each.
Its dimensions are 17.72 in deep, 15.28 in wide and 17.64 in high. This is a larger option than the smaller Thetford models, and its electric flushing makes the power arrangement part of your decision.
The power source and runtime are not specified, so confirm that the toilet will work with your campsite or vehicle before buying. Skip it for remote trips where you can't confirm a compatible power setup.
Choose it for a powered base camp with room for the larger body.
Thetford Porta Potti 135: Best for occasional outings
- 2.6-gallon fresh-water tank
- 2.6-gallon waste tank
- Bellows pump
The 2.6-gallon tanks and compact dimensions suit occasional use where storage space is tight and you want a manual bellows flush.
Pros
- Compact dimensions
- Bellows pump
- Removable seat and cover
Cons
- Smaller tanks than several picks
- No waste-level indicator details
The Porta Potti 135 is a compact option for occasional outings and tight storage spaces. It has 2.6-gallon fresh-water and waste tanks, a bellows pump and a rotating pour-out spout.
At 13.54 in deep, 15.12 in wide and 12.13 in high, it is among the smaller models here. Its removable seat and cover can make bowl cleaning easier, and the full fresh-water tank averages 27 flushes.
Small tanks are easier to fit into a compact toilet, but they are less suited to frequent use by a larger group. Choose this model for a backup or occasional trips; skip it when you want to wait longer between emptying stops.
Choose it for compact storage and light-duty use. Compare its capacity with the larger portable toilet options above if several people will use it.
Camco Premium Travel Toilet: Best for roomy seating
- 5.3-gallon detachable holding tank
- Pump flush
- ABS resin body
This Camco model has a detachable 5.3-gallon tank and pump flush, and its seat and bowl are larger than those of other brands.
Pros
- Detachable holding tank
- Pump flush
- Seat dimensions are stated
Cons
- Largest dimensions among these picks
- Heavier than the compact options
Camco’s Premium Travel Toilet suits buyers who want a larger seat and bowl with a detachable holding tank. The seat measures 12 5/8 in across the outside and 8 13/32 in across the inside.
It has a 5.3-gallon detachable waste tank and a pump flush. The toilet measures 18.5 in deep, 16.3 in wide and 17.1 in high, and weighs about 11.7 lb empty or 56 lb full.
That full weight makes the emptying route important: consider where you'll separate and carry the tank. Choose it when its seating dimensions and capacity suit the user; skip it if your vehicle or storage bay cannot fit its deeper body.
Choose it when seating room is a priority and you have enough storage space.
SEAFLO 5.8 Gallon Camping Toilet: Best for short storage bays
- Manual operation
- 2.64-gallon waste tank
- 3.43-gallon fresh-water tank
Despite its name, the SEAFLO's stated waste tank is 2.64 gallons. Its low height and manual operation may suit campers looking for a compact self-contained option.
Pros
- Compact dimensions
- Rotating pour-out spout
- 4-year warranty
Cons
- Smaller waste capacity than the name suggests
- Manual operation
The SEAFLO is a short, manual toilet with a 3.43-gallon fresh-water tank and 2.64-gallon waste tank. The “5.8 gallon” wording in its name does not match the stated waste capacity, so make your decision using the 2.64-gallon figure.
It measures 13.9 in deep, 15.9 in wide and 11.9 in high. A carrying handle and rotating pour-out spout support transport and emptying, and SEAFLO backs it with a 4-year warranty.
The low height can help in a shallow storage bay, but the relatively small waste tank calls for more frequent attention than a larger-capacity option. Choose it for a compact manual setup when that capacity fits your group; skip it if fewer emptying stops are your main goal.
Choose it for a low profile and manual operation.
Camping Toilet Kit with Pop-Up Privacy Tent: Best for private campsites
- Foldable toilet
- Pop-up privacy tent
- 12 bags and 12 gel packs
This kit combines a foldable toilet with a pop-up privacy tent, bags and liquid waste gel packs for campsites without a private restroom.
Pros
- Privacy tent included
- Foldable toilet
- Bags and gel packs included
Cons
- Uses bags rather than a detachable holding tank
- Dimensions don't clarify the assembled toilet size
This kit is the best fit for campsites where privacy is missing. It combines a foldable toilet, pop-up tent, 8 stakes, 12 bags and 12 liquid waste gel packs in a 22 in storage bag.
Unlike the other picks, it uses bags and gel packs instead of a detachable holding tank. The tent has a zippered roof and side windows, and the full kit weighs 3.5 lb.
The assembled toilet dimensions are unclear, so check that the shape and height suit the intended users before relying on it. Choose it when having a screened toilet area and a compact packed kit matter most; skip it if you prefer a reusable tank that you can empty.
Choose the kit for privacy gear in one package. Our guide to whether you need a privacy tent for a camping toilet can help you decide if the tent is useful for your campsite.
How do you choose a portable camping toilet?
Choose by where you'll use it, who will use it, and where waste will go. Once those are clear, compare capacity, dimensions and flushing style rather than treating one feature as the whole decision.
Should you choose a tank toilet or a bag-based toilet?
A tank toilet is a better fit when you want a reusable, self-contained unit with separate fresh water and waste storage. Models such as the Camco, Kohree and Thetford options keep waste in a holding tank that you carry to an approved disposal point.
A bag-based foldable toilet can make sense when you want a light, compact kit with privacy gear. It needs a supply of bags and gel packs, plus a disposal plan that follows local rules.
How much tank capacity do you need?
A larger waste tank can mean fewer emptying trips, but it takes more room and weighs more when full. The Kohree offers the largest stated capacity in this group, while the Thetford 135 has a smaller 2.6-gallon waste tank for occasional use.
Estimate use by the people on the trip and the number of days between disposal options. If you cannot empty often, avoid choosing a small tank simply because it fits easily in a cupboard.
What should you measure before buying?
Measure the storage area, the route to carry the toilet and the spot where you will use it. Leave space to raise the lid, operate the pump and detach the waste tank without hitting a wall or nearby gear.
Compare height, width and depth, not just the shortest dimension. A low toilet can still be too wide for a narrow storage bay, and a large tank needs room to sit securely during transport.
Do you need a manual or electric flush?
Manual pumps avoid relying on an electric flush system. The 365 and 345 use piston pumps, while the Camco models and Thetford 135 use other manual pump designs.
The 565E Curve has an electric flush, so confirm the required power arrangement before buying. If your trips take you away from dependable power, a manual model is the simpler choice.
How do you set up and care for a portable camping toilet?
Set up the toilet on a stable, level spot with room to use it and manage its tank or bags. Follow the instructions supplied with your chosen model for filling, flushing, sealing and cleaning.
For a tank model, identify the fresh-water fill and waste-tank release before your first use. Keep the toilet upright, close the waste valve as directed, and avoid moving a full tank farther than necessary.
For a bag-based toilet, fit the bag and use the included gel pack according to its directions. Keep spare bags available and secure used bags for transport until you reach a disposal point permitted by local rules.
Clean the toilet with products and tools suited to its materials and seals. Avoid improvised cleaners or harsh tools on valves and seals, since damage can make leaks or odors harder to control.
What mistakes should you avoid with a camping toilet?
The most common buying mistake is choosing by the name alone instead of checking the actual tank capacity and dimensions. The SEAFLO name includes “5.8 gallon,” but its stated waste tank is 2.64 gallons.
Don't assume the toilet will fit because its height looks manageable. Measure the width and depth too, and consider space needed to remove a tank or open the lid.
Another mistake is waiting until camp to decide where waste will go. Check campsite rules and locate an appropriate disposal option before relying on a holding tank or bag-based system.
Finally, don't choose an electric flush without confirming a power arrangement. A manual model is a safer fit when your campsite setup cannot support the electric system.
Which portable camping toilet should you choose?
Choose the Thetford Porta Potti 365 for a straightforward manual piston flush, the Camco 5.3 Gallon for a detachable tank, or the Kohree when a larger waste capacity and level indicator matter. For occasional use in a small space, consider the Thetford 135; for a private screened area, choose the foldable kit.
Your best portable camping toilet is the one that fits the storage space, user group and disposal plan you can support. Read our guide to using a portable camping toilet before your trip, then plan where you'll empty or dispose of waste.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Frequently asked questions
What type of portable camping toilet is easiest to empty?
A model with a detachable waste tank separates from the toilet for carrying to a disposal point. Camco and Kohree have detachable waste tanks, while the SEAFLO has a rotating pour-out spout.
Check how the tank comes apart and where you can dispose of waste before your trip.
How big should a camping toilet's waste tank be?
Choose a waste tank based on how many people will use it and how often you can empty it. The Kohree holds 5.8 gallons, while the Thetford Porta Potti 135 holds 2.6 gallons.
A larger tank can mean fewer emptying stops, but it takes up more space and weighs more when full.
Do portable camping toilets need water or power?
Many self-contained models carry their own flush water. Manual pumps work without an electric flush system, while the Thetford 565E Curve uses an electric system.
A bag-based folding toilet can suit trips where carrying flush water is inconvenient, though you still need a responsible waste-disposal plan.
Can you use a portable camping toilet in a tent?
Yes, if you have enough room, ventilation and privacy, and can manage waste responsibly. A privacy tent can provide a separate screened space outside your sleeping tent.
For setup and disposal steps, see our guides to using a portable camping toilet and emptying a portable camping toilet.
