RVs can be a great time. When you’re on the open road, everything seems to fall into place…unless you don’t have a bathroom. Then the anxiety creeps back in. RV toilets give you peace of mind by providing you with a comfortable nook of privacy.
But what’s the best RV and how does one tell?
The experts at Toiletable are here to help you find the RV toilet of your dreams. Just because it’s portable, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality!
Check out our Top 7 picks down below as well as our FAQ and how-to section!
Page Contents
Our Top Picks
| Editor's RV Choice: | Dometic 310 RV Toilet | |
| Budget Friendly: | SereneLife Portable Toilet | |
| Major Retailer's Choice | Camco Portable Travel Toilet | |
| Most Customer Reviewed: | Thetford Aqua-Magic RV Toilet | |
| Best Flush Ability: | Dometic 320 RV Toilet | |
| Tallest Height: | Dometic 300 RV Toilet | |
| Runner Up: | Camco Travel Toilet |
RV Toilet Functions Explained
RV toilets work by supplying water through either a freshwater or campsite hook-up. They also need to have at least half a bowl worth of water before being used.
These toilets require the special dissolvable paper to ensure your toilet works well and doesn’t clog. You should never flush paper towels, tissues, food, or feminine products.
It’s also important to note that compost ones work a bit differently. Instead of pushing the waste into a tank, it will go in a compost bowl.
As a result, you’ll be able to both empty the tank in a designated area, or use the waste as a fertilizer. Compost toilets allow you to go a few weeks before emptying out the tank.
Comparison of the Most Popular RV Toilets on the Market
The Best 7 RV Toilets Reviewed & Ranked
Below our team of toilet experts reviewed and gathered facts of the top ranking RV toilets on the market.
1. Dometic 310 RV Toilet – Editor’s Top Choice
- Pressure-Enhanced PowerFlush
- Low water consumption (1 pint of water)
- Flush Method: Pedal flush
- Flush System: PowerFlush action
- Water Operation: Pedal down to add water
- Seating Height: 18″
- Toilet Dimensions: 19″ x 15″ x 20″
“When you’re on the go, the Dometic 310 has got you covered. This reliable unit is easy to use and delightfully reliable.”
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It comes as no surprise that the Dometic is our Editor’s Choice as it’s often named one of the best RV toilets on the market.
Flushing Power
As opposed to lesser models, this unit is ceramic so it withstands the test of time.
The Dometic also has an ultra-powerful flushing system which is hard to find in portable units.
The toilet has a pressure-enhanced PowerFlush rim wash that removes waste in a matter of seconds. You’ll feel as if you were going to the bathroom at home!
This eco-friendly model only uses about one pint of water is used per flush, without sacrificing flushing strength. The flush pedal can be pressed partially to add water and pressed fully to flush.
Smart Design
Another thing we love about this model is its clever bowl design. The bowl is both visually appealing and effortless to clean. Its curved bowl is both space-saving and aesthetically pleasing.
The toilet weighs a bit over 20 pounds and has an excellent chair-like height of 18 inches – that’s about three inches than conventional toilets! The taller the toilet, the easier it is to sit and stand up from. Needless to say, the Dometic is a true pleasure to sit on.
A Slow-Close seat is included. The toilet comes in white and bone.
Product Documentation
Pros and Cons
- Durable, ceramic build
- PowerFlush Rim
- Pedal allows you to add more water before you even flush
- On the pricier side for portable toilets
Our Final Take
Users rave about the toilet’s sleek build and cool exterior. Positive reviews talk about how the toilet seamlessly blends into different RV settings. There aren’t many complaints about this unit, though some users report an occasional leak from the flapper seal.
2. SereneLife Portable RV Toilet – Budget Friendly
- 120 Flush capacity
- Leak proof and odorless design
- Cassette style toilet
- Flush System: Piston pump flush
- Fresh Water Capacity: 3.2 gallons
- Seating Height: 16.9″
- Waste Holding Capacity: 5.3 gallons
- Toilet Dimensions: 16.5″ x 14.6″ x 16.9″
“If budget is your number one priority, the SereneLife is the perfect choice for you.”
Natural, safe, and eco-friendly, the SereneLife is a fantastic choice for your RV or cabin.
Flushing Power
The SereneLife holds 3.2 gallons of water which can flush 120 times before you need to empty the 5.3-gallon tank.
Plus, you can clearly see the level of waste so you can plan when to dump the tank’s contents.
Smart Design
Overall, this toilet is sturdy and easy to wipe clean with a disinfectant or liquid soap.
The agitator helps in quick composting while the self-contained tank is designed to divert liquid wastes.
The SereneLife is made of high-density, premium-quality polyethylene that is corrosion-resistant, weighing in at 11.2 pounds.
The compost container is easy to disassemble for cleaning or other purposes. The packaging contains all the necessary parts for assembly, but the external vent will need to be purchased separately.
The SereneLife is designed to eliminate unnecessary spillage. The toilet features a rotating emptying spout, allowing you to quickly and discreetly empty it when full. The double-sealed drain valve also reduces the chance of any nasty smells getting out.
Pros and Cons
- Tank holds 120 flushes
- Affordable
- Simple Installation
- Light weight
- Bulkier build compared to other toilets on this list
- External vent must be purchased separately
Product Documentation
Our Final Take
Users love the toilet because of its unbeatable price. But even with its affordable price tag, the toilet’s quality is not sacrificed. With over 4,000 reviews and an average of 4.6 stars, the toilet has few negative reviews. The most common complaint is about the toilet’s bulky design, though the toilet itself weighs a bit over 10 pounds.
3. Dometic 320 RV Toilet – Best Flush Ability
- Pressurized full-rim flush
- Easy to clean ceramic bowl
- Flush Method: Pedal flush
- Flush System: Gravity flush system
- Water Operation: Pedal down to add water
- Toilet Dimensions: 19″ x 15″ x 20″
- Seating Height: 18″
“The 320 is an investment piece that’s meant to last – trust us.”
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This Dometic unit is the crown jewel of RV toilets.
Flushing Power
As opposed to the 310, the 320 has a pressurized full-rim flush. Every flush rinses the bowl thoroughly, never leaving behind annoying streaks or odors.
The toilet uses about one pint per flush and can be flushed by pressing the foot pedal. Press the pedal fully to flush or press partially for some extra water.
Smart Design
The 320 is a best-in-class unit thanks to its top-notch design and comfortable build. The ceramic toilet has a comfortable seat at a height of 19”.
The toilet can be purchased with a low profile or a low profile and a hand-wand for extra luxury.
The toilet’s rim design prevents spills. The toilet itself is easy to clean thanks to its curved, one-piece bowl.
Product Documentation
Pros and Cons
- Full rim flush
- One pint per flush
- Easy to install
- On the pricier side
Our Final Take
Users love the 320 because it’s comfortable and feels like a regular toilet. This upside also comes with the most common complaint – the price. Like we said, this toilet is an investment piece. You can easily buy a cheaper, plastic model, but if you want something that feels sturdy and real, the 320 is the way to go.
4. Camco Travel RV Toilet – Retailer’s Choice
- Detachable holding tank
- Pull slide valve flushing
- Flush System: Bellow-type flush
- Waste Holding Capacity: 5.3 gallons
- Fresh Water Capacity: 2.5 gallons
- Seating Height: 15″
- Toilet Dimensions : 14″ x 16″ x 15.5″
“Lightweight but powerful, the Camco is a true gem.”
Since 1966, Camco has been one of the leading brands in the RV toilet game.
Flushing Power
The Camco’s easy-to-use bellow-type flush and pull slide valve gives the toilet a reliable flushing mechanism.
The flush tank holds 2.5 gallons of fresh water; just open the cap to pour water in.
Smart Design
The toilet has a 5.3 gallon detachable holding tank for easy cleaning. It has a 330-pound weight capacity and only weighs 13 pounds itself.
The Camco has a comfortable height of 16.38” and a comfortable width of 13.75”. A seat and lid are included. While the toilet might look a bit clunky, its wide size makes it easier to sit on.
The toilet is also extremely easy to clean because it’s essentially a box – no grooves or ridges to take care of!
The Camco is made of plastic and is a dark gray color.
Pros and Cons
- 330-pound weight capacity
- Lightweight
- Easy to install
- Lower tank capacity than other units on the list
Product Documentation
Our Final Take
Users love the toilet because it’s straightforward and no fuss. Users cite the toilet’s simple tank setup and praise the toilet for its easy clean-up. The most common complaint is that the toilet’s tank capacity is lower than other tanks, though the toilet itself gets the job done.
5. Thetford Aqua-Magic RV Toilet – Most Reviewed
- Toilet Dimensions: 19.5″ x 15″ x 20″
- Flushing System: 2-in-1 Flush System
- Seating Height: 17.5″
“Sleek, beautiful, and compact. That’s the Aqua-Magic Style II in a nutshell.”
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The Aqua-Magic Style II brings magic to the RV bathroom experience.
Flushing Power
This toilet has a powerful flush that removes waste in the blink of an eye. With its single-pedal, flushing has never been easier.
Smart Design
The tank is easy to clean, and the non-stick finish stops hard waste from sticking, saving you time. The lid is a bit rugged for scuff resistance.
The toilet stands at 17.5,” a very comfortable height for users of all sizes. The Style II weighs about 27 pounds, making it a mid-size unit.
For an added bonus, an extra hand sprayer is available for purchase.
Product Documentation
Pros and Cons
- Strong flush
- Hand-sprayer compatible
- Mid-size weight
- Hardware not included
Our Final Take
Users like the Style II because it’s affordable and easy to use. Positive reviews talk about the toilet’s longevity, praising it for its resistance after years of wear and tear. The most common complaint is about hardware not being included. However, with almost 80% of its reviews being five stars, we think this is a minor setback in the grand scheme of things.
6. Camco Travel Toilet – Runner Up
- Toilet Dimensions: 18″ x 16.25″ x 17.5″
- Flushing System: Pumping flush
- Seating Height: 15″
- Weight Capacity: up to 330 lbs
“The Camco Travel Toilet is a modern-looking vessel that is effortless in installation and clean up.”
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This model is another Camco great.
Flushing Power
The Camco’s freshwater 5.3-gallon holding tank utilizes a pump flush action to effectively rinse the bowl of the toilet.
The toilet’s flush nozzles help remove any remaining waste in the toilet bowl.
The flush capacity is four gallons.
Smart Design
The Camco has a good height of 17” which is suitable for most users. The seat comes with a lid that helps avoid spillage when the toilet is being moved.
The toilet has an easy dumping elbow for simple waste removal. The Condor comes with a three-pack of TST drop-ins for a more thorough clean.
Pros and Cons
- Effective pump flush action flush
- Solid height of 17 inches
- TST drop-ins included
- Waste removal may require more than one person
Product Documentation
Our Final Take
Users love this affordable unit because simply put, it gets the job done. Positive reviews go crazy for the toilet’s simple structure and delightful flush. The most common complaint is about the toilet’s waste removal, which has an easy exit point but might need two people to finish the job.
7. Dometic 300 Series RV Toilet – Tallest Height
- Toilet Dimensions: 19.75″ x 16″ x 19.5″
- Flushing System: Gravity Flush
- Seating Height: 18.25″
“What can we say? The Dometic 300 is another Dometic great that gets the job done hassle-free.”
This unit looks good and feels better.
Flushing Power
The 300 is equipped with a gravity-style flush that uses about one pint per flush. If you need more water – have no fear! You can press the handy-dandy foot pedal for an extra splash.
Smart Design
The 300 has a residential-style design that makes it feel like a regular toilet. The toilet itself only weighs eight pounds but can hold over 200 pounds.
This toilet has a one-piece exterior that can be wiped down in a manner of seconds.
You’ll notice the 300 is taller than most units on this list, as it stands at 20”. This is extremely tall, compared to conventional toilets, but even when compared to ADA-toilets. The tall height makes it easier to sit and stand up but it may not be suitable for all users.
The toilet’s rim design prevents spills, which is especially great when the RV is in motion.
The 300 is available in white and bone. You can buy the optional hand sprayer for an additional cost.
Product Documentation
Pros and Cons
- Easy-to-clean exterior
- Simple waste removal
- Strong gravity flush
- Occasional leakage
Our Final Take
As with any Dometic model, this unit has tons of praise. Users love the toilet’s cool and clean exterior and easy-to-unload waste mechanism. Positive reviewers mention the toilet’s simple yet effective design and how comfortable it is to sit on. The most common negative complaints – despite there not being many – are about leakage. Some users report tiny leaks that can be fixed with professional help.
Buying Guide – Choosing a RV Toilet
Assess the amount of space you have in your bathroom and whether it can fit a full-sized toilet. RV bathrooms tend to be very small so every inch counts!
Think about the people who are going to be using the RV toilet. If you’re traveling with children or the elderly, there will be some restrictions. For example, you won’t be able to install a low-profile model, as it will be difficult for them to use it. People within these two groups also may find foot-pedal toilets difficult. Consider using a wall switch, traditional, or side handle set-up instead.
Consider how long and often you’re going to travel. Are you going to be emptying out the tank every other day or once a season? Are you willing to do the dirty work when it comes to waste removal? Also, take into account how often you’ll be able to stop to dump out the waste tank.
Also, take into account how much you want to invest. If you know your RV trips are only going to occur once in a blue moon, maybe you don’t need to opt-in for the most luxurious model. But if you’re a frequent traveler, a high-quality model may be the way to go.
Usage Tips
✓ Tip #1 – To keep your unit smelling fresh, use a tube clean or urine hole. You can also pour a cleaner down the urine hole after using it to get rid of the bad smells. Also, empty the waste and water tanks every few days or less, depending on how many people are in the RV.
✓ Tip #2 – Most of the time, the amount of water you use depends on how long you press the flush button or pedal. More often than not, you will need only a few seconds to get rid of the waste.
✓ Tip #3 – If you have a composting toilet, make sure to change the tank frequently to prevent dirt build-up. Also, turn on the agitator when you want to create compost. To make the process easier and quicker, you can use coconut coir or sphagnum peat moss.
Essential Features of RV Toilets
Here we cover six essential features to help guide your decision.
1. Ease of Installation
Since you will likely be doing the job yourself, choose one that’s easy to install. Portable toilets are usually the easiest to install but if you need something more sophisticated, a flush toilet is only slightly more difficult to set up. Keep in mind that your toilet should be quick and easy to clean while you’re on the road.
2. Waste Capacity
An RV toilet with a high waste capacity will make your life much easier since you won’t have to empty them as often. But, if you let the waste sit for too long, the entire RV will start to smell. Choose a toilet with a higher waste capacity that also locks in odors.
3. Usage Type
The best RV toilet for you is the one that most accurately suits your needs. If you’re disabled or elderly, you may want to steer clear of low-profile toilets. Instead, you should opt for a high-profile model, which most people prefer anyway. These toilets tend to be more comfortable and are similar to household toilets. If you’re set on a low-profile toilet, consider installing a raised platform to make it easier to use.
4. Durability
Porcelain ones are the most durable by far. However, they come with a higher price tag. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, a plastic model may be just the right fit. But keep in mind that there are different types of plastic. Polypropylene plastic toilets can last you for years compared to other plastics.
5. Shape and Size
You should consider the shape and size of the toilet seat before making a final decision. Standard oblong seats tend to be the most comfortable. However, wider people tend to prefer a square model. Also, consider if the elderly or children will be using the toilet, and try to accommodate them.
6. Ergonomics
Ergonomics makes a toilet stand out. A toilet should be comfortable enough for you to spend some time on it, and sit at a comfortable height. We recommend a toilet with an extended bowl, which tends to be more comfortable overall and easier to maintain.
Benefits of RV Toilets
- They make your day-to-day life much easier. You won’t need to use communal bathrooms; instead, you can do your business in a private, clean, and hygienic space.
- They can be lifesavers for people who tend to go to the bathroom often. You’ll need to take fewer breaks, and not go off your planned route.
- Some are eco-friendlier than others. Some even come with composting features that can turn your waste into fertilizer.
- They can actually be comfortable. Keep in mind that in many ways, they aren’t that different from standard home toilets.
Installation Tips
Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing an old one.
Step #1 – Remove everything that could get in the way, and clean the area around the toilet.
Step #2 – Turn the water pump off and flush your toilet to remove any remaining liquid. Then, dry out the bowl with some old rags or towels.
Step #3 – Search for a plastic cover, typically on the bottom or either side of the toilet, and start pulling it up. Now, you should be able to see the bolts and nuts that hold the unit down. Start unscrewing them.
Step #4 – Look for a hose connected to the back of your toilet and unscrew all nuts and bolts from there. Then, disconnect the hose as well. Finally, make sure you have old newspapers or towels ready for you to put the toilet on.
Step #5 – Lift the toilet straight up and place it on the rags/towels/newspapers on the floor. If it’s stuck, you can try to wiggle it out of its place.
Step #6 – Replace the old rubber gasket with the new one from your installation kit. If you’re having a hard time removing it, use a screwdriver to pry it off.
Step #7 – Line up the bolts to the holes on the bottom of your toilet. Then, gently place the toilet on top of the newly installed gasket.
Step #8 – Tighten the nuts over the bolts using a wrench. Then, make sure the toilet fits snuggly and isn’t too tight or too wobbly.
Step #9 – Tighten up the bolts and nuts of the hose behind the toilet. Make sure not to over tighten them.
Step #10 – Finally, test the toilet by turning on the water pump and flushing it. If everything seems to be in working order, and there aren’t leaks — you’ve done a good job. If not, go back and recheck your work step by step.
This how-to guide may come in handy if your RV toilet does not hold water.
Regular Toilets in an RV (Is it Possible?)
The short answer is yes, but there are some things you need to consider first. While it is possible to use a regular toilet, it’s rarely a good long-term solution.
First, regular toilets are much heavier and aren’t made to endure driving conditions. They’re likely to crack or cause damage to the RV.
Second, home toilets consume much more water per flush than RV models. You’ll need to fill up the water tank and empty the waste tank more frequently. Not to mention, you may cause damage to the toilet, hose, or tank on accident.
With all of that in mind, it’s a much better option to go with an RV toilet in the first place. You won’t have to worry about anything bad happening. Moreover, you’ll get all of the comforts you would from a regular home toilet.
Frequently Asked Questions
We took the time to answer some of our readers most asked questions about RV toilets.
Mobile homes, like RVs, aren’t connected to the sewer system like your toilet at home. This means the waste has to be held in some alternative way. RVs use compact, portable toilets, like the ones on this list.
You’ll notice these toilets tend to be smaller, cheaper, and less high-tech. Nevertheless, these toilets are very convenient, especially when you’re in the middle of nowhere and need to go.
An RV toilet is an RV-compatible portable toilet that is used in place of a traditional toilet when you’re on the go. RV toilets have two tanks – one to fill up with water for flushing and one to hold waste.
To activate an RV toilet, press the pedal located on the bottom of the toilet. The pedal will open up the water valve from your tank.
With the help of gravity, the water will rush in and take away your waste into the holding tank that is either attached to the toilet or mounted under your RV.
Yes, RVs use fresh water which must be filled in the tank before going. Standard RV toilets are not connected to the water or sewer system.
You can use a sponge or rag (for the exterior), as well as a toilet brush for the interior of the toilet. Y ou could also go for either a store-bought solution or make one out of vinegar.
Make sure to be thorough and get rid of all bacteria, and clean your toilet regularly.
The most common RV toilets tend to be flush toilets. These toilets have foot pedals that activate the flushing mechanism. Water is taken from the holding tank and cleans the bowl, eventually emptying itself into the waste tank.
Yes, some tankless toilets are compatible with RVs. Tankless toilets help you save space by putting their tanks in the wall. Tankless toilets tend to be more expensive than regular RV flush toilets as they require professional installation.
It depends. Portable units that require no real set-up can cost below $100. More complex units with a pedal, gravity flush system tend to cost around $300 to $500.
However, for even more advanced models, the pricing can exceed $500, well into the thousands.
Yes, though this will cost you. Ceramic toilets are more expensive than their plastic counterparts. Though if you’re in the market for longevity and comfort, ceramic units are the way to go.
Just remember that besides the price tag, these units also tend to be heavier than plastic models.
Bottom Line
The best RV toilet is one that fits your needs (and bathroom) perfectly. However, whichever model you decide on, make sure to maintain and clean it regularly. You’ll ensure that your toilet serves you well for many years to come.