CAMPING TOILETS

While most campgrounds provide toilet facilities of some kind, they’re not always convenient. In a big campground, you may feel you’re setting out on a day hike just to get there. Other places, due to budget or water restrictions, may only offer outhouses. And no one really likes making a midnight run in either case. Children in particular can be very sensitive about this issue, and make your life miserable over it. Fortunately, there are alternatives. They’re also good to know about if you’re camping away from an established campground.

Basic Portable Toilets

The most basic portable toilets are inexpensive yet highly functional. These are seats with lids that come in a kit with their own bucket, or that come separately to snap onto any five-gallon bucket. Just line the bucket first with a plastic bag. Another type of basic toilet is a foldable stool with a toilet seat and a way to attach a plastic bag. Toilet deodorizers and solid-waste digesters may be added, if needed, until you can properly dispose of the waste.

Comfortable Portable Toilets

A step up from the most basic, toilets in this group include hassock styles and inflatable toilets. Hassock toilets are similar to buckets but are a bit larger and more stable. Most have a space for paper storage in the lid, and a removable inner bucket. Inflatable toilets come in two sizes: children and adult. They can use ordinary, household garbage bags for waste collection and disposal, or also accommodate bags designed specifically for this purpose. Again, deodorizers and chemical waste-digesters can be used.

PETT Luxury Portable Toilet System

The PETT is a top-of-the-line portable toilet system. It begins with a three-legged, stable toilet fitted with double, puncture-resistant bags. The inner bag is preloaded with odor and organic waste neutralizers, and the outer bag zips shut for extra security. For privacy, the system includes a 4x4-foot tent tall enough to accommodate most adults. The tent has three zippered windows, a zipper flap, and even a mesh storage pocket for magazines. Finally, the whole system fits in its own briefcase-sized storage case.