A portable toilet is one option available when buying a caravan, although there are also caravans with fixed or dry flush toilets.

This post focuses on the caravan toilet. We will try to address the questions you may have in relation to this type of bathroom equipment, the parts it includes, how it works, how to maintain it, and – most importantly – how to empty it. The secret world of caravan toilets starts here!

What do you need to know about caravan toilets?

One of the most renowned motorhomes is the Camper van. It’s full of essentials to help you kick-start your camping life but the only problem is it often doesn’t have a toilet as it seeks to maximise space.

Imagine you – or one of your kids – need to use the bathroom in the middle of the night and you have to look for the nearest toilet. What a nightmare! In this case, you should think about installing a portable toilet or chemical caravan toilet. For this reason, we’re going to detail everything you need to know about caravan toilets to make sure you enjoy the perfect, stress-free trip away. Are you ready? Let’s begin!

What parts does a caravan toilet have and how does it work?

Advocates of portable toilets say this is the cheapest option given that it doesn’t require electrical installation and, most importantly, it is the option that best adapts to almost all caravan models and sizes.

Portable toilets are comprised of two tanks:

• The first tank is connected to the seat and it functions like a regular toilet. If you push the lever, the tank empties, transporting the waste to the second tank, which must be filled with a specific chemical liquid mixed with water. This stops the bowl from getting dirty.
• The second tank is underneath and is where the waste is stored. Waste is decomposed quickly thanks to another chemical liquid, which is a little stronger and which dissolves it, all while preventing bad odours.

Now, from the campsite Villamar, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know when it comes to correctly emptying the tank of a caravan toilet and leaving everything ready for its next use.

Is the waste storage tank indicator red? It’s time to empty it!

Step 1: Put on some rubber gloves as a precaution. Even though you won’t be coming into contact with the waste at any time it’s better to protect yourself given how toxic the liquids used are. Remember: safety first!

Step 2: Close the toilet lid and locate the lever to disassemble it. Remove the waste tank from the part below, using its handles if it has any. If your portable toilet’s tank has wheels that’s great! You won’t have to carry more than 15 litres of waste. If it doesn’t have wheels you can buy a small transportation trolley to help make your task of emptying the tank easier. Don’t worry, they’re quite cheap and will definitely come in handy if you’re in a rush!

Step 3: Head to the official cleaning facilities. If you’re staying at a campsite, staff at reception will usually inform you regarding these facilities’ location. They are almost always close to the communal bathrooms. If staff don’t tell you, ask! In general, there are certain times during which these facilities can be used.

Step 4: Unscrew the tank’s cap, directing the opening towards the drain and empty it. Place the tank under the tap and add a little water. Replace the cap and shake a little to loosen liquid remains. Pour into the drain again.

Step 5: Now you need to prepare your tank so you can use it again. It is important that you follow the chemical product’s specifications. Normally you need to add two litres of water and the recommended volume of the chemical liquid. At this point it might be useful if you have a bottle you can use to measure out a litre. Why? Because it’s extremely important that you use the recommended doses in order to guarantee the chemicals are effective.

Step 6: You’re almost done! Re-install the portable toilet in its place and you’re ready to continue using it. That wasn’t so difficult, was it?

Now you know some essential information about a caravan toilet, doesn’t it seem easy?

It’s easier to do than to explain, we can assure you! We hope this post was helpful and you can make full use of your caravan. You don’t need to clean your caravan toilet every day, for which reason we recommend you use it in emergencies and for quick bathroom trips. You’ll find plenty of service stations along the way where you’ll be able to stretch your legs before continuing on your journey. Safe travelling!