As vanlife continues to rise in popularity across the UK and Europe, one essential piece of kit has become increasingly important: a reliable, compact, and easy-to-use portable toilet. Whether you’re a weekend explorer or living full-time on the road, having a dependable toilet can significantly improve your comfort and hygiene.
This guide presents the 6 best portable toilets for vanlife in 2025. All products listed are highly rated and have been thoroughly researched with up-to-date specs, performance comparisons, real-world user reviews, and honest analysis.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be fully equipped to select the perfect portable toilet that matches your van size, budget, and personal needs.
🚽 Product Reviews
Thetford Porta Potti 165
- Price: £62.50
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- Type: Cassette
- Flush Mechanism: Manual Bellows Pump
- Capacity: 15L Fresh Water / 10L Waste Tank
- Weight: 3.8 kg
- Height: 41.3 cm
Pros:
- High seat height for better comfort.
- Easy to operate manual flush.
- Detachable tanks for simple emptying.
- Durable construction.
Cons:
- No electric flush option.
- Bellows pump can be less powerful than piston models.
Real-World Feedback:
This model is ideal for vanlifers seeking a reliable, no-frills toilet with decent comfort and easy operation. Many users highlight its durability and ease of cleaning.
Thetford Porta Potti Qube 365
- Price: £79.95
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- Type: Cassette
- Flush Mechanism: Piston Pump
- Capacity: 15L Fresh Water / 15L Waste Tank
- Weight: 4 kg
- Height: 41.4 cm
Pros:
- Strong piston pump for effective flushing.
- Large waste and fresh water tanks.
- Comfortable seat height.
- Waste level indicator included.
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier and heavier.
Real-World Feedback:
Highly rated for its sturdy construction and smooth flush operation. A top choice for full-time vanlifers needing more capacity.
Blue Diamond Nature Calls Standard Portable Toilet
- Price: £20.84
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- Type: Bucket
- Flush Mechanism: None
- Capacity: 7L
- Weight: 3 kg
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight.
- Very affordable.
- Simple design with no moving parts.
Cons:
- Basic comfort level.
- No flushing capability.
Real-World Feedback:
Popular among budget-conscious campers for its portability and simplicity, although it lacks the comfort and odor control of cassette models.
Blue Diamond Outdoor Revolution Big Loo
- Price: £25.95
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- Type: Bucket
- Flush Mechanism: None
- Capacity: 13L
- Weight: 5 kg
Pros:
- High capacity.
- Robust design with sturdy seat.
- Easy to clean.
Cons:
- Heavier and larger footprint.
Real-World Feedback:
Ideal for extended stays where capacity matters. Users praise its stability and easy maintenance.
Thetford Porta Potti Excellence
- Price: £129.93
- Click Here To See Product On Amazon
- Type: Cassette
- Flush Mechanism: Electric 12V pump
- Capacity: 21L Fresh Water / 21L Waste Tank
- Weight: 5.6 kg
- Height: 44 cm
Pros:
- Electric push-button flush.
- Large fresh and waste tanks.
- Swivel seat for flexible positioning.
- High-quality materials.
Cons:
- Heavier and requires a power source.
- Higher price point.
Real-World Feedback:
Perfect for luxury-focused vanlifers wanting maximum convenience. Known for its excellent flushing and comfort.
Camco Portable Travel Toilet
- Price: £39.72
- Click Here To See Product On Amazon
- Type: Cassette
- Flush Mechanism: Piston Pump
- Capacity: 15L Fresh Water / 9L Waste Tank
- Weight: 3.6 kg
- Height: 41 cm
Pros:
- Affordable yet effective flushing.
- Compact design.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons:
- Smaller waste tank.
- Occasional valve maintenance needed.
Real-World Feedback:
Popular among budget-conscious vanlifers seeking quality flushing and compactness.
🗾 Buying Guide
Key Considerations:
- Toilet Type: Cassette for comfort and flushing, Bucket for budget simplicity.
- Flush Mechanism: Electric > Piston > Bellows > None.
- Tank Capacity: Choose based on usage frequency.
- Weight & Size: Ensure it suits your van’s layout.
- Power Supply: Only needed for electric models.
🔄 Alternatives to Consider
- Dometic 976 Series: Premium cassette with 21L tanks.
- Thetford TC Series: Light hybrid cassette.
- Composting Toilets: Eco-friendly, but large and costly.
❓ FAQs
How often should I empty the toilet? 2-4 days for cassette models.
Do I need chemicals? Yes, for cassette toilets.
Are these van-compatible? Yes, all listed models suit vans.
What about legal use in campsites? All models are legal in the UK if emptied at appropriate waste points.
✅ Conclusion
Use Case | Top Pick | Runner-up |
Full-time vanlifers | Thetford Porta Potti Excellence | Thetford Porta Potti Qube 365 |
Weekend/mid-range | Novaloo Portable Toilet POD | Camco Portable Travel Toilet |
Budget/back-up | Vango Gvoya Portable Toilet | Blue Diamond Nature Calls |
- For maximum comfort: Thetford Porta Potti Excellence.
- For versatile value: Thetford Porta Potti Qube 365.
- For compact setups: Vango Gvoya or Novaloo POD.
- For budget solutions: Blue Diamond models.
Choose wisely based on your space, budget, and vanlife style!