How To Make Camping Toilet: Cost-Effective & Eco-Friendly

What is a camping toilet? A camping toilet is a portable sanitation solution designed for use in the outdoors. Can I make my own? Yes, building a DIY camping toilet is a straightforward and cost-effective solution for managing waste responsibly while enjoying the great outdoors. This guide offers several camping toilet plans and ideas, focusing on both budget-friendliness and environmental consciousness.

Image Source: i.ytimg.com

The Call of Nature: Why a Camping Toilet Matters

When venturing into nature, proper waste disposal is crucial for both personal hygiene and environmental protection. Leaving human waste untreated can contaminate water sources, spread disease, and negatively impact the natural ecosystem. A portable toilet for camping ensures responsible waste management, minimizing your impact on the environment and keeping your campsite clean and sanitary. Whether you are looking for a DIY camping toilet, or researching the best camping toilet DIY approach, this guide provides helpful information.

Benefits of Using a Camping Toilet

• Environmental Protection: Prevents contamination of soil and water sources.
• Hygiene: Promotes personal cleanliness and reduces the risk of illness.
• Convenience: Provides a comfortable and private restroom solution.
• Regulations: Many campsites require the use of portable toilets or proper waste disposal methods.
• Leave No Trace: Adheres to the principles of responsible outdoor recreation.

Choosing Your DIY Camping Toilet: Factors to Consider

Before diving into building a camping toilet, consider these factors to determine the simple camping toilet design that best suits your needs:

• Trip Length: For longer trips, you’ll need a larger capacity or a system for waste disposal.
• Group Size: A larger group will require a toilet with greater capacity and durability.
• Portability: Consider the weight and size of the toilet, especially if you’ll be backpacking or moving campsites frequently.
• Waste Disposal: Determine how you will dispose of waste properly and legally. Options include bagging and carrying out, burying (where permitted), or using a composting system.
• Budget: DIY options can range from very affordable to more elaborate and costly designs.
• Eco-Friendliness: Choose materials and designs that minimize environmental impact. Composting camping toilet options are an excellent choice for the eco-conscious camper.

DIY Camping Toilet Options: From Simple to Sophisticated

Here are several camping toilet plans, ranging from basic to more advanced, with step-by-step instructions to get you started with your homemade camping toilet:

1. The Bucket Toilet: A Classic and Simple Solution

This is the most basic and affordable bucket toilet camping option. It’s easy to assemble and requires minimal materials.

Materials:

• 5-gallon bucket with lid
• Toilet seat (optional, for added comfort)
• Heavy-duty trash bags or biodegradable toilet liners
• Absorbent material: sawdust, wood shavings, peat moss, or kitty litter.
• Disinfectant spray (optional)

Instructions:

1. Line the Bucket: Place a trash bag or toilet liner inside the bucket. Ensure the liner is securely fitted to prevent leaks.
2. Add Absorbent Material: Sprinkle a generous amount of absorbent material into the bag. This helps to absorb liquids, control odor, and facilitate decomposition.
3. Use and Dispose: After each use, add more absorbent material. When the bag is full, tie it off securely and dispose of it according to local regulations. Some areas allow burying human waste (check local guidelines), while others require you to pack it out.
4. Cleaning (Optional): Spray the inside of the bucket with disinfectant spray after emptying to maintain hygiene.

Tips for Bucket Toilets:

• Use a sturdy bucket that can withstand weight and prevent tipping.
• Double-bag the waste for extra security.
• Store the bucket in a discreet location away from your campsite.
• Consider a toilet seat for added comfort, especially for longer trips.
• Mark the bucket clearly as a toilet to avoid accidental use for other purposes.

2. The Portable Toilet Box: A Comfortable Upgrade

This option provides more stability and comfort than a simple bucket toilet. It involves building a simple box structure to support the bucket and toilet seat.

Materials:

• 5-gallon bucket with lid
• Toilet seat
• Plywood or sturdy wood boards
• Screws or nails
• Saw
• Drill (optional)
• Heavy-duty trash bags or biodegradable toilet liners
• Absorbent material (as above)

Instructions:

1. Measure and Cut: Measure the diameter of the bucket and the toilet seat. Cut the plywood or wood boards to create a box frame that will snugly hold the bucket and support the toilet seat. The height of the box should be comfortable for sitting.
2. Assemble the Box: Assemble the box frame using screws or nails. Ensure the frame is sturdy and stable.
3. Create the Seat Opening: Cut a hole in the top of the box that matches the inner diameter of the toilet seat. This will allow the toilet seat to sit securely on top of the bucket.
4. Install the Toilet Seat: Attach the toilet seat to the top of the box using hinges or screws.
5. Insert the Bucket: Place the bucket inside the box frame.
6. Line the Bucket: Place a trash bag or toilet liner inside the bucket and add absorbent material as described above.
7. Use and Dispose: Follow the same waste disposal procedures as for the bucket toilet.

Tips for Portable Toilet Boxes:

• Reinforce the box corners for added durability.
• Sand the edges of the wood to prevent splinters.
• Consider adding a handle for easier carrying.
• Paint or stain the wood to protect it from the elements and improve its appearance.
• Ensure the toilet seat is securely attached to the box.

3. The Composting Camping Toilet: An Eco-Friendly Choice

A composting camping toilet is an environmentally responsible option that breaks down waste naturally. This design requires more planning and maintenance but significantly reduces environmental impact.

Materials:

• Two 5-gallon buckets with lids
• Toilet seat
• Plywood or sturdy wood boards (for the box)
• Screws or nails
• Saw
• Drill (optional)
• Ventilation pipe (PVC or similar)
• Hardware cloth or screen (for ventilation)
• Absorbent material: sawdust, peat moss, wood shavings (carbon-rich materials)
• Urine diverter (optional, but highly recommended for efficiency)

Instructions:

1. Build the Box: Construct a box frame similar to the portable toilet box, but with a larger opening to accommodate both buckets.
2. Ventilation: Install a ventilation pipe to provide airflow for the composting process. The pipe should extend from the bottom of the box to above the toilet seat. Cover the opening with hardware cloth or screen to prevent insects from entering.
3. Install Urine Diverter (Optional): A urine diverter separates urine from solid waste, which speeds up the composting process and reduces odors. Install the urine diverter according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It typically directs urine into a separate container.
4. Prepare the Buckets: Place one bucket inside the other for added strength and leak prevention.
5. Line the Bucket: Line the inner bucket with a thin layer of absorbent material.
6. Use and Compost: After each use, add a generous amount of absorbent material to cover the solid waste. This helps to control odor, absorb moisture, and provide carbon for composting.
7. Composting Process: When the bucket is about two-thirds full, remove it and place it in a designated composting area. Cover the bucket with a lid and allow the waste to decompose for several months. Add carbon-rich materials periodically to maintain the compost pile.
8. Emptying the Urine Container (If Using): Empty the urine container regularly and dispose of the urine responsibly. Urine can be diluted with water and used as a fertilizer in some cases. Consult local regulations for proper disposal methods.

Tips for Composting Camping Toilets:

• Maintain a proper carbon-to-nitrogen ratio by adding enough carbon-rich materials (sawdust, wood shavings) after each use.
• Ensure adequate ventilation to promote aerobic decomposition and reduce odors.
• Use a urine diverter to separate liquids from solids, which speeds up the composting process and reduces odors.
• Turn the compost pile regularly to aerate the material and promote even decomposition.
• Allow the compost to decompose for a sufficient amount of time (at least six months) before using it. The compost should be dark, crumbly, and have an earthy smell.
• Do not use humanure compost on edible plants unless it has been properly composted and tested for pathogens.

4. The Emergency Camping Toilet: Quick and Improvised

For emergency camping toilet situations or short trips where space is limited, this improvised solution can be a lifesaver.

Materials:

• Durable trash bag
• Small shovel or trowel
• Thick leaves, pine needles, or soil

Instructions:

1. Dig a Hole: Dig a hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide in a location at least 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites.
2. Line the Hole: Line the hole with a durable trash bag, ensuring it extends beyond the edges of the hole.
3. Use and Cover: After each use, cover the waste with leaves, pine needles, or soil to help reduce odor and promote decomposition.
4. Bury the Bag: When the hole is nearly full, carefully remove the bag and tie it off securely. Bury the bag in the same hole, covering it with at least 12 inches of soil.
5. Mark the Spot: Mark the spot with a stick or stone to prevent accidental digging in the area.

Tips for Emergency Camping Toilets:

• Choose a location with soft, easily diggable soil.
• Carry extra trash bags in case of tears or leaks.
• Use biodegradable bags whenever possible.
• Dispose of toilet paper responsibly by packing it out or burning it (where permitted and safe to do so).
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer after using the toilet.

Choosing the Right Absorbent Material

The absorbent material you choose plays a crucial role in odor control, sanitation, and the composting process (if applicable). Here are some popular options:

Material	Pros	Cons
Sawdust	Excellent absorption, good odor control, readily available	Can be dusty, may attract insects
Wood Shavings	Good absorption, readily available, affordable	May not be as effective as sawdust for odor control
Peat Moss	Excellent absorption, good odor control, natural	Can be expensive, may not be readily available in some areas
Kitty Litter	Excellent absorption, good odor control, readily available	Not environmentally friendly, may contain chemicals
Coconut Coir	Excellent absorption, good odor control, sustainable	Can be expensive, may require pre-soaking before use
Dried Leaves	Readily available in natural settings, sustainable	Less effective than other options for absorption and odor control

Legal Considerations and Ethical Disposal

Before embarking on your camping trip, familiarize yourself with local regulations regarding human waste disposal. Some areas have specific requirements for toilet types, burial depths, or packing out waste.

• Check Local Regulations: Research campsite rules and regulations regarding human waste disposal.
• Burying Waste: If burying waste is permitted, dig a hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources, trails, and campsites. Cover the waste with at least 12 inches of soil.
• Packing Out Waste: Some areas require you to pack out all human waste. Use a sealed bag or container designed for this purpose.
• Proper Disposal of Bags: Dispose of waste bags in designated receptacles or pack them out for disposal at home.
• Leave No Trace: Always practice Leave No Trace principles by minimizing your impact on the environment.

Maintaining Hygiene and Sanitation

Proper hygiene is essential when using a DIY camping toilet. Here are some tips to maintain cleanliness and prevent the spread of germs:

• Wash Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer after using the toilet.
• Hand Sanitizer: Carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol for quick and easy cleaning.
• Toilet Paper Disposal: Dispose of toilet paper responsibly by packing it out, burning it (where permitted and safe to do so), or burying it in the toilet hole.
• Cleaning Supplies: Keep a supply of cleaning wipes or disinfectant spray for cleaning the toilet seat and surrounding area.
• Personal Hygiene Products: Bring personal hygiene products, such as feminine hygiene items, and dispose of them properly in sealed bags.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best material for absorbing odors in a camping toilet?

  • Sawdust, peat moss, and coconut coir are all excellent choices for absorbing odors.

• Can I use regular toilet paper in a composting camping toilet?

  • It’s best to use biodegradable toilet paper or a minimal amount of regular toilet paper. Excessive toilet paper can slow down the composting process.

• How do I deal with flies and insects around my camping toilet?

  • Ensure adequate ventilation, use a tight-fitting lid, and add absorbent material after each use to reduce odors and attract fewer insects. Insect repellent can also be used around the toilet area.

• Is it safe to use humanure compost on my garden?

  • Humanure compost should only be used on non-edible plants unless it has been properly composted and tested for pathogens.

• How often should I empty my camping toilet?

  • The frequency of emptying depends on the size of the toilet, the number of users, and the type of waste disposal system. Empty the toilet before it becomes too full or starts to emit strong odors.

• What are the signs of a properly functioning composting camping toilet?

  • A properly functioning composting toilet should have minimal odor, a balanced moisture level (not too wet or too dry), and active decomposition of waste.

• Can I use a camping toilet in bear country?

  • Yes, but you must take extra precautions. Store the toilet away from your tent and food storage areas. Empty and clean the toilet frequently to minimize odors that could attract bears. Follow all local regulations regarding bear safety.

By following these tips and guidelines, you can build a cost-effective and eco-friendly DIY camping toilet that will enhance your outdoor experience while minimizing your environmental impact. Remember to always prioritize responsible waste disposal and respect the natural environment. Happy camping!