Where to “Go” on the Go: Why a Portable, Composting Toilet is Optimal for your Camper Van

Composting Toilets, the Solution to your Not-So-Talked-About Problem

Traditional camping bathroom options can be more of a problem than a relief. You’re constantly having to pull off the highway in hopes of finding a somewhat clean gas station toilet. Then when you have managed to find the perfect camp spot, you’re planning the next time you’ll have to leave and empty the black tank. 

If you’re wanting a more flexible and convenient solution for your camper van, then a portable, composting toilet can be for you! With easy, flexible disposal options you won’t need to plan your trip around a bathroom. You can just set up camp and enjoy your well deserved adventure. 

This is where a Trelino® toilet comes in. Noted by their customers, these portable toilets feature a simplicity which makes them a low maintenance, convenient, and aesthetic restroom option. 

Composting Toilets: The Basics and How they Work

Composting toilets have just three main components. A separator, a urine canister, and a solids container. 

The separating insert ensures that the solids and liquids are collected in two different containers. Solid waste will fall into its designated container, while urine is funneled into the canister. This prevents the two wastes from being mixed together, which can lead to unpleasant odors and a messy clean up. 

Cleaning the toilet is just as straight forward as its design. After each use, you only need to wipe down the bowl. Then every other day, empty the urine canister and wash it out with a vinegar or citric acid solution. Cleaning the solids container depends on the composting toilet that you have. No water or chemicals are needed in cleaning your composting toilet.

Without water or chemicals, you avoid any waste of your limited water supply, the need for dumping stations, and (most importantly) the porta potty smell that can be created when chemicals or water mix with your waste. 

Embracing Simplicity: Trelino® Composting Toilets 

One of the most convenient composting toilets for your camper van is the Trelino®. To set them apart, there is no agitator, no need for electricity, and no hookups to a drainage system. Here are just a few of the benefits that come from a Trelino®: 

Easy to Clean

By not having an agitator, the Trelino® makes cleaning the toilet a breeze. You only need to line the back container with a bag and lift it out when you need to empty it. For disposal, local regulations should be followed. For the urine canister, you only empty every 2-3 days. Then swish it out with a vinegar or citric acid solution and it is ready for use again! 

Versatility

With a toilet in your camper van, you don’t have to worry about leaving the comfort of your van when it's dark or cold out. A Trelino® has 6 different sizes to choose from, so one is sure to fit your needs. Whether you would stow it away in a drawer or would want to install it into your shower. A Trelino® has a sturdy build that can be drilled into for installation. 

Odor Neutrality 

As noted above, separation is most important in preventing smell. The second most important part is one which Trelino® has integrated. A one-way sealing membrane in the urine canister keeps smells and urine from getting out into the toilet and your van. In the back area, a good litter material will keep your solids from smelling. 

No Chemicals

One of the main benefits of a Trelino® composting toilet is letting go of the need for chemicals. Without them, you will no longer have that chemical smell that is associated with porta potties. You are also free to dispose of your waste in more places, so you won’t need to spend time looking for specific dumping stations.

Local Production 

The production process of these toilets takes place in Dusseldorf and the surrounding areas in Germany. By partnering with local production companies, Trelino® has committed to supporting local businesses, aligning with Germany’s high standard of fair pay, working conditions, and high quality products. 

Not only is Trelino® dedicating their process to local production, but also to a love for camping and appreciation for the natural places that we camp in. Through their own testing and by consistently using customer feedback, Trelino® is focused on continuing to design and innovate when it comes to fitting the needs and wants of campers. 

Van Compatibility: Prepping your Camper Van Bathroom

Your van bathroom is an important part of your camping experience. Drifter Vans’ attention to design, variety of builds, and commitment to quality, will be sure to make that part of your experience a comfortable one that fits to your specifications. 

The interiors of Drifter Vans create a clean, modern look for your camper van. Why not have a toilet to match? By not looking like a toilet, a Trelino® can complement these aesthetic interiors. 

If you’re wanting a camper van equipped with a shower, Drifter Vans provides that option along with the option to install a toilet there. For this, Trelino® has compatible, larger options. If you are wanting a more discreet option that can be tucked away in one of Drifter Van’s hidden compartments, a small or medium sized toilet would be more ideal. 

Both companies are committed to providing customers with the most expertise in their corresponding topics. This gives campers the reassurance that their van is equipped with their needs in mind. 

Get the Most from your Camper Van Toilet 

When you’re wanting your trip to be comfortable, stress free, and independent, a camper van designed and built with those aspects in mind is the best choice. The toilet you get for it should match those expectations as well. Don’t get tied down by relying on public toilets or disposal stations. Get more freedom with your camper van with a Trelino® composting toilet. 

You can check out your Trelino® options at mytrelino.com or follow them on Instagram or Facebook. 

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🖼️ Check Out The Clients Gallery 

Browse layout inspiration, interior finishes, and the creative details that make each Drifter Van unique.

Let’s Get You Moving in the Right Direction

Kick tires. Ask questions. Drift awhile.

🎥 Explore Our  YouTube Channel

Watch van tours, build reveals, and behind-the-scenes footage straight from our shop.

👥 Join Our The Drift Facebook Group

The Drift Facebook group is a community where you can ask questions directly to the builders and designers at Drifter Vans, gaining insights and advice about campervan builds and design.

📜 Checkout The Drift — Vanlife Blog

Created by builders. Filled with vanlife tips, design inspiration, product reviews, and real client stories from the road.

🖼️ Check Out The Clients Gallery 

Browse layout inspiration, interior finishes, and the creative details that make each Drifter Van unique.

Contact Drifter Vans Today

If you’re ready to start exploring, click below. There’s no pressure—just a starting point. This isn’t a commitment. It’s a door opening.

Contact Drifter Vans Today

If you’re ready to start exploring, click below. There’s no pressure—just a starting point.This isn’t a commitment. It’s a door opening.

👉 Contact Us

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