For many Aussies, the thought of a camping adventure sounds like the ultimate escape. Sitting by the fire, sleeping under the stars, camp cook-ups, fishing on the river and a refreshing coldie at the end of the day – it doesn’t get more BCFing fun than that! But there’s one important piece of the camping puzzle that isn’t quite so glamorous… where do you go to the loo? It’s part of life and whether you’re at home or in the great outdoors, when nature calls, you don’t really have a choice! Speaking of choices, when it comes to camping toilets, there’s a great range at BCF!
So, what are your options when it comes to taking care of business in the backcountry? While some of you may be happy with a shovel and some bog roll, others are looking for something a little more comfortable – not to mention hygienic! In this guide, we’ll be running you through the main types of camping toilets, so you can choose which one is best for you.
1. Poo emergency pack – great for dealing with nature poos!
When you’re off grid and need to do the do, a small pack of goodies including trowel, hand sanitiser and toilet paper can be extremely useful for dealing with the aptly named nature poo. These items won’t take up much space in your kit but will ensure you’re able to continue on your way feeling fresh as a daisy. When you do need to take care of business in the bush, it’s super important that you not only choose a suitable spot that’s away from trails, campsites and water sources, but ensure you leave the area as you found it once you’re done. Sometimes a toilet just isn’t an option and that’s where this little beauty steps in.
- As compact as they come
- The backpacker’s best friend
- If you can, choose a toilet paper that’s biodegradable
- Leave no trace
2. Bucket Toilets – The classic DIY choice!
This is a ripper option for those budget conscious campers or people going away for shorter stays. As the name suggests, these beauties consist of a 20L bucket and snap-on hinged seat lid. They use heavy-duty toilet bags (sold separately) and make going to the toilet in the bush simple and stress free. For off grid camping adventures, the bucket toilet can be a handy addition to the kit. With designated dumping stations across the country, you’ll have no dramas disposing of your unwanted waste.
- Low cost and lightweight
- Perfect for short term outdoor activities and minimalist camping
- Basic design that’s extremely easy to use
- Tough as nails construction
Expert tip: For peace of mind, double bagging is the way to go!
3. Foldable camp toilet – When you’re short on space and nature calls
Folding camp toilets offer the perfect balance between portability, comfort and ease of use, making them the ideal option for weekend warriors and car campers alike. For those short on space, they don’t come much better than this, with a collapsible design that fits in a car, RV or even a backpack. When it comes to the setup process. this one’s a piece of cake, with no complicated assembly required and clean up that’s just as easy. How good!
- Cost effective
- Easy setup and storage
- Comes with a weight capacity of 100kg
- Ideal for camping, caravanning and outdoor adventures
4. Chemical toilets – Royal throne on the go
When it comes to outdoor adventures, there’s nothing quite as important as having a reliable and hygienic toilet with you on the road. Although a chemical toilet isn’t quite the same as your throne at home, it would have to be the next best thing. Its compact and portable nature is what makes these beauties such a ripper option, as you can take one with you just about anywhere, whether it’s a quick overnighter or the annual camping escape with the fam. As the name suggests, these toilets use chemicals (sold separately) to both treat and deoderise human waste – very handy! Forget about the plumbing connections and running water, these self-contained systems are easy to clean and maintain, as well as being relatively odour-free. If you’re looking for big brands, these boys have you covered with the likes of Thetford and Joolca bringing something new to the party. You beauty!
- Easy to transport and set up just about anywhere
- Requires very little maintenance, and only needs to be emptied occasionally depending on usage!
- Keeps hygiene and safety at the highest level, with chemicals helping to control bacteria and odour issues
- Suitable for all manner of outdoor adventures including caravanning, boating, festivals and a great addition to the emergency kit
So, there you have it! Whether you’re backpacking in the bush or living the caravan lifestyle, you all need some form of camping toilet. Lucky that BCF has a few up their sleeve, with something sure to fit your needs!