• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

CampingEssentialsAndMore.com

The Best Of Camping... Made Easy!

How to Make a Toilet for Camping

How to Make a Toilet for Camping

April 16, 2025 by Mike Leave a Comment

This page may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something through my affiliate links, then I may earn a commission (which helps support this blog).

Creating a toilet for camping is essential for comfort, hygiene, and environmental responsibility when you’re far from traditional facilities. Whether you’re car camping, backpacking, or setting up a remote base camp, a DIY camping toilet is easy to assemble using affordable materials.

This guide explores the most effective methods, expert tips, and best practices for making your own camping toilet—so you can stay comfortable and leave no trace.

Key Takeaways

  • Build a camping toilet using a 5-gallon bucket, trash bags, and a pool noodle for comfort.
  • Add absorbent material like sawdust or cat litter to control odor and moisture in your camping toilet.
  • Always pack out waste using biodegradable bags or follow local disposal rules to protect the environment.
  • Enhance your setup with privacy shelters and portable handwashing stations for maximum hygiene.
  • Responsible waste disposal is crucial—never bury plastic bags or leave waste behind.

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • DIY Camping Toilet Methods
    • The Bucket Toilet (Step-by-Step)
    • The Compact Stool Method
    • Upgraded Bucket Toilet with Real Seat
  • Comfort and Hygiene Enhancements
    • Absorbent Materials and Odor Control
    • Privacy Solutions (Tents, Tarps)
    • Hand Hygiene in the Wild
  • Responsible Waste Disposal
    • Pack-Out Best Practices
    • Eco-Friendly Bags and Composting Options
    • Leave No Trace Guidelines
  • DIY vs. Commercial Camping Toilets
  • Conclusion

DIY Camping Toilet Methods

The Bucket Toilet (Step-by-Step)

Materials Needed:

  • 5-gallon bucket with lid
  • Heavy-duty trash bags (10–13 gallon)
  • Pool noodle or pipe insulation
  • Absorbent material (sawdust, wood chips, peat moss, or cat litter)
  • Toilet paper

Instructions:

  1. Line the bucket with a trash bag.
  2. Place a generous layer of absorbent material at the bottom.
  3. Cut a slit along the pool noodle and fit it over the rim for a comfortable seat.
  4. After each use, sprinkle more absorbent material to cover waste and control odor.
  5. Secure the lid when not in use.
  6. When full, tie off the bag and pack it out for proper disposal.

Expert Tip:
Add a few drops of essential oil to the absorbent material for extra odor control.

Related: Best National Parks For Camping In the USA

The Compact Stool Method

Compostable toilet liners
Get them on Amazon,
or check them out on eBay.

Materials Needed:

  • Folding camping stool
  • Scissors or utility knife
  • Duct tape
  • Waste collection bag (wag bag or similar)

Instructions:

  1. Remove any mesh or fabric from the stool’s seat.
  2. Cut a hole in the seat fabric, leaving enough edge for support.
  3. Reinforce the edges with duct tape.
  4. Place a waste bag over the seat and secure it.

Best For:
Backpackers and hikers who need a lightweight, collapsible option.

Related: Backpacking 101: Essential Backpacking Tips for Beginners

Upgraded Bucket Toilet with Real Seat

Toilet seat for bucket
Get it at Amazon,
or check it out on eBay.

Materials Needed:

  • 5-gallon bucket
  • Standard toilet seat (wooden preferred)
  • Plywood (for mounting)
  • Fasteners and glue

Instructions:

  1. Trace the bucket’s rim onto plywood and cut a matching hole.
  2. Attach the toilet seat to the plywood, then secure the plywood to the bucket.
  3. Line the bucket with a trash bag and add absorbent material.

Best For:
Extended camping trips where comfort is a priority.

Comfort and Hygiene Enhancements

Absorbent Materials and Odor Control

Deodorizing Powder
Get some at Amazon,
or check it out on eBay.
  • Use sawdust, peat moss, or non-clumping cat litter to absorb moisture and reduce smell.
  • Sprinkle absorbent material after each use.

Privacy Solutions (Tents, Tarps)

  • Set up a pop-up privacy tent or hang a tarp for a makeshift outhouse.
  • Choose a spot at least 200 feet from water sources and campsites.

Hand Hygiene in the Wild

  • Bring hand sanitizer, biodegradable soap, and a portable handwashing station.
  • Use disposable wipes for extra cleanliness, but always pack them out.
Bestseller No. 1 Hapoon XL Portable Folding Camping Toilet - Travel Potty for Adults, 12 Toilet Bags, 12 Pack Liquid Waste Gel, Black Hapoon XL Portable Folding Camping Toilet – Travel… $34.99
Bestseller No. 2 Camping Toilet with Pop-Up Privacy Tent and Liquid Waste Gel, Portable Toilet for Camping with Large Tent, Ergonomic Potty Provides Enhanced Comfort, Suitable for All Ages Camping Toilet with Pop-Up Privacy Tent and Liquid… $64.99
Bestseller No. 3 Ann Katy Upgrade XL Portable Toilet for Adults, Extra Large Portable Travel Floding Camping Toilet, Camping Tall Toilets with Lid for Kids Compact Potty for Car,Hiking,Beach,Toilet Storage Stool Ann Katy Upgrade XL Portable Toilet for Adults,… $39.99
Bestseller No. 4 Portable Toilet, Upgraded 15'' toilet With Removable Paper Holder, Camping Toilet With A Load Capacity Of 450 Lbs, Portable Potty for Camping, Hiking, Road Trip, Car, RV, Tent, Beach, Truck Drivers Portable Toilet, Upgraded 15” toilet With… $39.97
Bestseller No. 5 Kohree 5.8 Gal Portable Toilet for Adults: Large Camping Toilet with Detachable Waste Tank, Leak-Proof Cassette with Level Indicator, Flushable Boat Porta Potty for Home Use, Camper, RV Travel Kohree 5.8 Gal Portable Toilet for Adults: Large… $129.99
Bestseller No. 6 TRIPTIPS Upgrade Retractable Portable Toilet Travel Toilet Adjustable Height Camping Toilet Portable Potty for Adults Kids, Foldable Portable Toilet for Camping/Car TRIPTIPS Upgrade Retractable Portable Toilet… $38.99
SaleBestseller No. 7 Sckee Camping Toilet, Portable Toilet for Adults, Portable Travel Floding Toilet with Lid and Paper Holder, Compact Potty for Car, Camp Toilet Portable Toilet for Camping, Hiking,Truck, RV, Beach Sckee Camping Toilet, Portable Toilet for Adults,… $33.99

Responsible Waste Disposal

Pack-Out Best Practices

  • Use double-bagging for extra security.
  • Only use biodegradable bags if local regulations allow.
  • Never bury plastic bags or leave waste behind.

Eco-Friendly Bags and Composting Options

  • Look for compostable waste bags designed for human waste.
  • Consider a portable composting toilet for semi-permanent camps.

Leave No Trace Guidelines

  • Always follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • In sensitive or high-traffic areas, packing out all waste is mandatory.

DIY vs. Commercial Camping Toilets

MethodComfort LevelPortabilityCostBest For
Bucket + Pool NoodleHighModerateLowCar/base camping
Folding Stool + Wag BagModerateHighLowBackpacking, hiking
Bucket + Toilet SeatVery HighModerateMediumExtended stays
Commercial Portable ToiletVery HighLowHighRV, glamping, families

When to Consider a Commercial Solution:
If you camp frequently, with a large group, or want the highest comfort and sanitation, a commercial portable toilet may be worth the investment.

Conclusion

Making a toilet for camping is simple, cost-effective, and essential for a comfortable outdoor experience. Choose the DIY method that fits your trip, add comfort and hygiene upgrades, and always dispose of waste responsibly. With these tips, you’ll camp cleaner, greener, and more comfortably—leaving only footprints behind.

Related: Summer Camping Essentials

Filed Under: Camping Tagged With: bucket toilet setup, composting toilet basics, diy camping toilet, eco-friendly waste disposal, leave no trace camping, odor control tips, portable camp hygiene, privacy shelter ideas

Related Articles

Exploring the Many Types of Camping: A Beginner’s Guide

Camping is an excellent way to connect with nature and escape the hustle of … [Read More...] about Exploring the Many Types of Camping: A Beginner’s Guide

Cowboy Camping (Everything You Need To Know)

Cowboy camping is the simplest form of camping, where you sleep under the … [Read More...] about Cowboy Camping (Everything You Need To Know)

Find Free Legal Car Camping

How to Find Free and Legal Car Camping Locations

Car camping can be an excellent way to explore the outdoors without … [Read More...] about How to Find Free and Legal Car Camping Locations

Camping Essentials

Bestseller No. 1 Retractable Portable Clothesline for Travel,Clothing line with 12 Clothes Clips, for Indoor Laundry Drying line,Outdoor Camping Accessories Retractable Portable Clothesline for... $9.99
SaleBestseller No. 2 MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit, Campfires, Outdoor Fireplaces, Bonfire - Magic Colorful Changing Fire - Perfect Fire Camping Accessories for Kids & Adults (12 Pack) MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit,... $8.97
SaleBestseller No. 3 Benadryl Anti Itch Gel, Relief of Outdoor Itches Associated with Poison Ivy, Topical Analgesic, Cooling Relief, Diphenhydramine, 3.5 oz Benadryl Anti Itch Gel, Relief of Outdoor Itches... $5.28
SaleBestseller No. 4 MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long - Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit - Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S'mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32' 5 Pack MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long -... $9.99
SaleBestseller No. 5 Collapsible Wagon with Wheels, 220 lbs Wagons Carts Foldable Wagon Cart with Flexible Handle, Lightweight Portable Folding Utility Grocery Shopping Cart for Grocery Sports Garden Camping Collapsible Wagon with Wheels, 220 lbs Wagons... $49.99

About Mike

I spent my Summer's growing up in Michigan RV camping with my Grandparents and tent camping with my family. My Dad loved to race Hobie Cat sailboats, so I've pretty much seen every major inland lake and camping ground in Michigan.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Camping Gear

SaleBestseller No. 1 MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit, Campfires, Outdoor Fireplaces, Bonfire - Magic Colorful Changing Fire - Perfect Fire Camping Accessories for Kids & Adults (12 Pack) MEKER Fire Color Changing Packets - Fire Pit,... $8.97
SaleBestseller No. 2 MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long - Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit - Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S'mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32' 5 Pack MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long -... $9.99
Bestseller No. 3 TOPJUM Camp Kitchen Organizer, Cooking Tools Storage Caddy Bag, Multi-Pockets, Paper Towel Holder, Portable Hanging Kitchen Caddy for Camping Utensils, Cookware & BBQ Essentials, Bag Only TOPJUM Camp Kitchen Organizer, Cooking Tools... $49.98

Search

Recent Posts

  • Do I Need Biodegradable Soap for Camping?
  • Camping Essentials For Women (Don’t Forget The Wine)
  • What Is A Camping Vault Toilet?
  • How To Use CPAP While Camping
  • What Clothes To Pack For Camping
  • Backpacking 101: Essential Backpacking Tips for Beginners
  • Choosing The Best Suv Air Mattress
  • How To Choose The Best Back Seat Air Mattress
  • Quick and Easy Hot Dog Sauce: Classic Coney Island Chili Recipe
  • How to Shower While Camping
  • How to Wash Dishes Camping
  • How to Pack Eggs for Camping

Categories

  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Camping Gear
  • Camping Meals
  • Camping Tips
  • Camping With Cats
  • Camping With Dogs
  • Car Camping
  • Dispersed Camping
  • Glamping
  • National Parks
  • Sleeping Bags
  • Summer Camping
  • Tent Camping
  • Winter Camping
  • Yurts

Camping Equipment

Bestseller No. 1 Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO Lightweight Waterproof Solar USB Rechargeable LED Flashlight Survival Kits for Indoor Outdoor Home Emergency Light Power Outages Hiking Hurricane 4-Pack Collapsible Portable LED Camping Lantern XTAUTO... $29.99
SaleBestseller No. 2 Survival Kit and First Aid Kit, 142Pcs Professional Survival Gear and Equipment with Molle Pouch, for Men Dad Husband Who Likes Camping Outdoor Adventure (Black) Survival Kit and First Aid Kit, 142Pcs... $40.99
SaleBestseller No. 3 MACKENZIE-CHILDS Ceramic Tray, Unique Tray for Decor, White Rabbit Trinket MACKENZIE-CHILDS Ceramic Tray, Unique Tray for... $45.99
SaleBestseller No. 4 LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight, 1200 Lumen Ultra-Light Bright LED Rechargeable Headlight with White Red Light,2-Pack Waterproof Motion Sensor Head Lamp,8 Modes for Outdoor Camping Running Hiking Fishing LHKNL Headlamp Flashlight, 1200 Lumen Ultra-Light... $19.99
SaleBestseller No. 5 MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long - Marshmallow Roasting Sticks Smores Kit - Smore Skewers Hot Dog Fork Campfire Cooking Equipment, Camping Essentials S'mores Gear Outdoor Accessories 32' 5 Pack MalloMe Smores Sticks for Fire Pit Long -... $9.99

Disclaimer:

The content provided on this blog, including articles, visuals, and other materials, is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as professional advice of any kind, including medical, legal, or safety-related advice. We encourage you to consult with qualified professionals before making decisions based on the information provided here. The authors and administrators of this blog are not responsible for inaccuracies, errors, or omissions in the content nor for any actions taken based on the information provided in this blog.

Footer

  • Contact Us
  • Opt-out Preferences
  • Terms of Use and Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Notice of Security
  • Comments Disclaimer
  • General Disclaimer
  • Copyright DMCA Violations Procedure
  • Disclaimer & Legal Rights
  • Business Address
  • Sitemap
  • As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

© 2025 Profitable Results Marketing, LLC All Rights Reserved.

Manage Cookie Consent
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Manage options Manage services Manage {vendor_count} vendors Read more about these purposes
View preferences
{title} {title} {title}