Van Life 101: Living and Pooping in a Car, Van or RV

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If you're going to live as a nomad in a car, van, or RV, you must find a solution to the need to go to the bathroom--we all poop! In this video, we show you two easy solutions. The first is going in a 5-gallon bucket, and the second is using a Porta Potti. We then review the Thetford Porta Potti.
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Thanks for watching!

[@stansigstadable]

Living in a semi with no toilet I bought a five gallon bucket at Home Depot. I put a toilet seat from Walmart designed for the bucket. In this bucket are two trash bags because the one you deposit human bi-product into sometimes might leak or the bag might be too weak. I use only BLACK bags to hide the contents because you can see what's in a white bag

[@morris4069]

Trucker also, I have the same setup. You get plenty of bags from the truck stop store or grocery that one hardly ever needs a trash bag. I do have the small regular garbage bags n have one ready for emergency, if time allows I’ll pull the seat n double the grocery bags n pop the seat back on. Always inspect for holes n double bag, bags with small holes get used as trash bags in can made for using grocery bags. Pro tip is keep a grocery bag with supplies in it so you can rip that out in a hurry and like shown with the dogs biscuits, keep your extra supplies, tp, roll of bags n wipes, under the first liner. You will stick to the seat one time or another or be clumsy and having some ballast keeping you bucket upright is a good thing.

[@yolanda9730]

@@morris4069 where do you discard the wastes? thanks

[@jasonpotts6490]

@@yolanda9730 All the truck drivers at the distrbution center near me just throw it in the field next to the parking area. The distribution company has to send one of their guys out every morning to pick up all the bags.

[@gettingintrospective]

​@@jasonpotts6490 Don't do this, people. Awful.

[@marywatkins9438]

Try commode liners. They are much better for managing smell and leaks.

[@mikem7489]

As a truck driver I use the 6 gallon bucket. Some customers don’t let you use their restroom, sometimes you pull over and sleep on a pull off in the middle of nowhere. And the biggest reason I use it is truck stop bathrooms aren’t always clean and I like privacy

[@master6676]

Same here.

[@lynnjudd6421]

Oh yeah! Good idea. My late husband was a trucker for a few years. Especially in very cold weather it's nice to not have to get out in the cold.

[@mirriamvalentin8634]

Relief is welcoming. Nobody wants to be holding it in with no solution or plan. This is a very important topic!

[@Bronxbomber4ever]

I used to have a coleman Porta potty when I drove truck. Very handy and safe when out in the middle of nowhere. It fit right under my bunk.

[@dross24MA]

In a pinch, for the ladies, large coffee cups from truck and quick stops work well as pee collectors. Also, car part stores sell oblong and angled funnels that cost less. (e.g. FloTool Yellow Spill Saver Radiator Funnel $1.99 versus $14 for Sheewee)

[@marsflee3815]

It's an important topic. Many become homeless and we all need a lesson on how to stay disease free. Thank you for making this video. You're more civil than most rich politicians that won't even think about giving us any helpful tips.

[@allencolvin4320]

Living out of a van is not something I would ever want to do, but I have become more and more conservative over the years. When government takes care of you, they usurp all of your freedoms and assets and leave you nothing in return. Government makes no distinction between the working poor and those who are homeless because they want to do drugs at tax payers expense

[@williedaniels3882]

@@allencolvin4320 You are so full of Horse-puckey. And you have the brains of a walnut! Can you spell GOP?!!!

[@allencolvin4320]

@@williedaniels3882 actually, I was giving cudos to people wanting to do this and not be slave to anyone. In the 2nd half of my paragraph, my intent was to point out that people who are homeless because they are doing drugs are getting all of the free stuff while the working poor get next to nothing 🙃. I commute 2 hours each morning to my construction jobs in Seattle, or Bellevue areas. Seattle is a giant homeless camp, whereas Bellevue has lower taxes than Seattle but higher income levels, and far less homeless camps bc they don't put up with that over on their side of lake Washington. I am also only an hour and change from Portland. Same problem as Seattle, but on a larger scale. When you give people "free shit" at tax payers expense, people will come in from all over the states to get it! If you want to live in a van on purpose as a minimalist, good for you! But, I will never go for a communist government!

[@beblissnow5947]

@@allencolvin4320 I LEFT Seattle. I am an educated, retirement age woman. I Was a working poor w medical challenges. The Commute from my 1 business went from 20 min trip to 2.5 hours,1 way. I never made enough to even pay taxes, or have real savings. I have no substance abuses or uses of any kind. Regardless of my past. Gentrification took both my small businesses (rentals), replaced them w "Lego Land" Cubbies 200sf - $400sf. "Senior Low Income," is $1300 a mo. Lol 😳 I was able to purchase a nice car to do Uber/Lyft. w my saving. Lol Well, That didn't work. 😕 Traffic. Then.... I was given 60 days to move out of my apt of 20 yrs., so they could remodel & triple rent.🤯😳 I had to liquidate everything. 🥺😫😢 For the longest time I refused to accept the help from government. When I did, housing lists were Closed. Then I got on one for 5-7 yr wait ! 😒 A run down building in an unsafe neighborhood, awaits me. My mega church of 20 yrs did not help. And, I refused to "find a Rich guy to take care of me", as it was suggested because I'm "pretty & sociable". The offers were for "Sexual Services Rendered" as a "girlfriend".Yes, the scum prey on the weak & vulnerable. Men & women "friends & aquaintences", some with 3k sf homes & every conceivable means & "thing", living alone & lonely in their mansions would not even temporarily rent me a room. & I AM a Very respectable, appreciative, clean, polite & helpful person. SO Much space un-used. Such a waste & so much greed, breaks my heart. Some even have residential investments & Buildings, even shopping malls sitting Vacant !!! They wouldn't even consider my offered to house sit. 🤔😒 That said, in their defense... their fear of vagrants & squaters seem to have more laws supporting them, than the Owner of the property. Especially w covid. It's all a big red tape, government mess, isn't it. I was able to finally find a decent room, w shared bath for almost as much $ as my entire 2b2b apt Was. Landlady turned out to be an Angry woman wanting to fight. 😐 Covid hit about the same time. Driving jobs went to minimal & non-existent riders & mass competition w drivers🙄 So, I went "On the Road" to find a new place I could afford. That's been a challenge to find even across 4 States in smaller towns & over a yr now. AND Surprise ! The bathrooms were Closed...even at the gas stations. And, yes Absolutely Disgustingly Filthy. 😖😕😶 I am Not a slave, but, am accepting temporary help w medical & food. I make the Choice to BE FREE, volunteer where I can at food banks. I pray & Ask GOD to BLESS those that have SO Much more, but are Unwilling to SHARE. To soften their hearts & to be courageous. I've seen a lot. I sleep in Upper Middle Class neighborhoods in my nice car, because I am "camaflouged". I "fit in" un-suspected. After 3 mo. of actively seeking, I finally found a "Decent Clean" room, shared bath, in a house w 2 other women for the winter. One housemate turned out to be a Drug & Alcohol Abuser. Not safe. 🥺😫😢 Now, the landlady is selling the house. 🤯 AND my "reliable" 2016 Kia apparently has a recall on engines...the dealer says its an 8 wk wait to just check it ! 2 mo. to replace it, if need be. Seriously !?!? 🤯😱 I thought it was just "bad gas". Well, poop.(#@!&%$#) This fits right in w this video, doesn't it ! 😏😐😕 All this said to say THANK YOU for the educational video's & my internet. It's an experience of a life time in my own country, the USA !!! 🇺🇲 🙏⚘😏 ALL might not be well, according to my expectations, right now, and winter is coming again.... Social services says I can't receive them w/o a physical address or leave the state. 🤔🤪 However, I AM VICTORIOUSLY BLESSED !!! GOD Always provides according to HIS Ultimate Highest GOOD & purposes for His Glory. May PEACE BE w you all experiencing something similar or worse. Keep the Faith or borrow some of mine. You CAN Receive your own. Just ASK GOD to forgive you for everything & those that have hurt you. Then, Receive His FREE Gift of Salvation & GIVE GRATITUDE ! He Chose to Sacrifice Himself for YOU. By GRACE I AM SAVED & Baptised in the Holy Spirit. I SHARE my Truth. I AM an Eternal BEING Temporarily in the flesh having a human experience to tell YOU... "YOU Are Accepted & LOVED". Everyone Financially, Emotionally, Mentally, Spiritually, Intellectionally, Educationally, Physically RICH or POOR. In Jesus Holy Name & Shed Blood. AMEN = So it IS & it IS so Namaste = the Spirit within me bows to the Spirit w/in YOU. I LOVE YOU. Yes, YOU Are Worthy. NOW 🙏💜😊💚⚘ COME as you ARE.

[@MikeBrown-dk7or]

I would include the wet wipes for possible use after wiping with toilet paper. However before these two things, I would wash off the poop with a hand held bidet bottle which are very cheap and do the trick as long as your aim is good.

[@jmartmac]

So many people love to talk about eating and cooking but get all bound up when discussing where the food goes after we use it. You took control over the situation and did so in a really great way. Very good work. Thanks.

[@master6676]

All bound up,,,, HEHEHEEHE

[@ToriLynnH]

😄😂 true

[@Brett235]

I'm a truck driver and I use the bucket method simply because I don't trust public restrooms. We used this method at deer camp years ago and it works really well. Thanks for the video.

[@clubmike2910]

I did not expect dog biscuits under the plastic in the buckets. The dog must think you crap biscuits. No wonder he likes you so much.

[@jaxd7206]

what a freaking awesome comment :)

[@lauramoore5903]

OMG! That is one of the funniest things I have ever heard!!!!!

[@melindalancaster9648]

Charlie The Tuna lmao

[@dominicracca6955]

OK that's funny!! Epic!

[@michellenine9486]

Charlie The Tuna 😂

[@alisonb9963]

Buy a bedside commode (used for the sick/elderly) it has a small/folding frame, toilet seat with a lid for the pail/pot.. You can still use the bags/wipes etc. but you have a comfortable seat with arm support to get your poop on. :) Good luck and thank you for making this.

[@lisaanderson6920]

I had to use a Bedside Comode , when I had my Heart Surgery. I was Sleeping up ! Stairs . So I had to use one. It was a Good thing for me to use . Especially at night.And it’s a Good idea too.

[@anns1921]

I was thinking the same thing. I wonder why you never see anyone doing that?

[@lynnsheffield8506]

I was considering one for my potty closet. But I'm hoping to make it into a shower, so not sure it will fit.

[@mirriamvalentin8634]

Excellent... I always thought of a remade elderly toilet... Looks like a regular chair but surprise.... Toilet inside

[@mbrasseau]

It's a great idea if you happen upon one. But since it's considered a "medical device" it can be pricey.

[@scottconger1266]

People have to realize, humans have used out houses and have gone #1 and #2 outside far, far, far longer than there has been indoor plumbing, thanks for this important video bob.👍

[@Scottybeammeup2]

Some places in this world, like in Afghanistan still just squat in the street and poop, right in front of everyone. Give them an outhouse and they still prefer to squat outside. The dust from the poop by the wind gets in people's eyes and they go blind. 3rd world is not what we are, Thank God.

[@judeduffell6620]

Thank you so much for doing a very informative video on one of the most important functions of the human body! In our so-called civilized society, so many people are reluctant to talk about pooping. People, if we don't poop, we die! Once you have the experience of sitting at the bedside of an elderly person who has a bowel impaction, you will look forward to pooping anytime, anywhere! We should value that process as one of the things that keeps us alive! Being repulsed by our own solid waste is not a mark of being civilized! One of my favorite parts of Bob's videos is when he asks the person how they go to the bathroom. That just might be the most valuable tip the van-lifer gives us, since not getting that right can greatly impact our van-life.

[@sethbrown8912]

The one thing I learned is that if you need to deliver sensitive news, an attractive assistant may make the message a little easier to accept.

[@Da103Man]

What deliver sensitive news?

[@beblissnow5947]

Why ?

[@musicisbrilliant]

Does anyone know who his assistant is? Is that his lady?

[@rpruneau68]

Well Bob, you are certainly #1 when it comes to #2!

[@gig777]

Thank you for the pooptorial. I thought it went very smoothly.

[@ctcv-to8kq]

I see what you did there.

[@dam1041960]

LOL!

[@dalewpit]

Like it went through a goose :D

[@jasminegray2081]

Hate your. Video 👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾👎🏾

[@T-RM]

LOL

[@craigschuman5851]

A delicate subject handled with good humor and care. Thanks!

[@terrietackett8964]

Since RV'ing since the 1990's, I have seen that poop is the great equalizer. Homemade camper to $500,000 motor home, we all meet at the same place, dealing with the most unpleasant task!!

[@gerardcollins1767]

if you have spent good money putting food in,only right to be comfortable getting it out.

[@fbnick9987]

I am so envious that you two guys both share a lifestyle. And you, girl are not petite, you are STRONG.

[@ilovelalakers]

The most interesting part of this video to me was the water filtration part. I am glad that you mentioneed Sawyer Water Filters. I will investigate further.

[@motorcyclehair]

Trust me, I thought I would NEVER use a bucket, but how wrong I WAS. Once you realize that you can, it'll change your life-for something so basic, it's quite liberating! Out in the country, we made one using the elderly toilet seat stand above the bucket, add dirt & dump when full adding ash & other components to break it down back to dirt. C'est SIMPLE!!!

[@Pandy-do8je]

Where do you dump it?

[@flowersafeheart]

Isn't dirt pretty heavy? Potting soil or maybe woodchips or hay is lighter but a cost...not all kitty/pet litter biodegradable. Not sure how heavy sand is. And guess would need different option when urban stealth. Saw one person separates pee from poo and has fans on the poo to dry it out so it gets lighter and less smelly and i think shrinks it, easier to throw out.

[@marywatkins9438]

A bucket isn’t too far removed from a commode. Especially if you add an elevated toilet seat.

[@OneKindWord]

‘… we had to pull all the carpet out of the van.’ That cracked me up!

[@jem5252]

I would combine both of their preferences. I would use the port-o-potty for ease of comfort, but I would place bags inside it under the toilet seat like his bucket method. That way the port-o-potty remains clean and sanitary at all times. And if using a bedside commode with the smaller bucket, I'd still do the exact same thing. It makes an unpleasant topic very workable and reduces any unnecessary stress in dealing with bathroom matters. Thank you for great ideas.

[@glendachilders]

I think bucket and bags would be easier.some portable toilet,s are good to

[@angelacarter6593]

She totally sold me on the porta potty. I've never been a fan but she makes it seem ideal....LOL

[@moniquejeffery4516]

Outstanding! I don't even own a RV but I love watching your videos!

[@renestrobl464]

That was very informative! No campgrounds are open where I’m at right now, and I’m a full-time RVer, so your pooptorial eased my anxiety about being without a bathhouse. I feel like living more remote makes us more badass. 🤟

[@meangreen7389]

Very few people can be practical, informative and humorous on a topic that all of us part take in daily no matter what country you are living in or visiting. Thank you.

[@trainer333]

This isn’t just for vans. I only have one bathroom so I have had a poop bucket on my porch for years. It’s a must when you have company and cheaper then another bathroom. Works for me and my family.

[@amberlyda43]

LOL! When she said we had to tear all the carpet out of the van, I laughed so hard I spit my coffee.

[@kimberlypreston4641]

That was funny and I can relate!

[@jackriley5974]

From my experiences with out-houses I know the best thing to dump behind your dump is lime. It takes some careful handling but does a great job on odors.

[@qweeknee4208]

I was wondering about lime!

[@JesusIsRealToMe]

Having to deal with bumper to bumper traffic during rush hour in NYC, I learned to keep a bucket in my car for those times that I get stuck in traffic. I now upgraded from using trash bags to 100% compostable bags and urine/poo gel. I prefer this over public restrooms.

[@k.quilter2735]

This is quite an informative video. I learned alot and truely had a smile on my face while watching. Bob and Vanna did a great tutorial. Just a note; Pool Noodles work great for edging your buckets and hard edge items. Happy trails. 🚽🚻🏁

[@free2bwild913]

Kathy Caudill great idea with the noodles!

[@judeduffell6620]

Just a note. My experience with porta potties is that they have lots of nooks and crannies in the holding tank, and are very difficult to clean. I would definitely want to use a bag in those too. The bucket idea is still my favorite. For one thing it's higher than the Porta potty, so easier for us seasoned folks.

[@hollin220]

I have been getting into watching van life videos recently. Many KZbinrs dont go over the call over nature. And I am always curious how and where they go. This was a funny and informative video. Thanks folks

[@Tina-qp7py]

I just started watching them just in case we have to go into survival mode because of the pandemic. Being outdoors really appeals to me. I think I could learn to like van living!

[@gman21266]

1) Walmart sells plastic toilet seats with a lid which are made to fit on a 5 gallon bucket. I paid about 15 bucks for mine. 2) Cut the bottom out of a 5 gallon bucket. 3) Dig a hole in the ground and place the bucket over the hole. 4) Place the bucket over the hole. 5) Do your thing while reading classic literature such as "Gone With The Wind". LOL ;) 6) When finished, remove bucket and back-fill the hole. 7) Give the inside of the bucket a quick rinse. 8) Do NOT attempt to ask a hungry bear what he does in the woods! :)

[@kuladeeluxe]

For Fecal matter, you can use coated paper liners made for Incinolet brand electric toilets. Put these in a small bag and dispose in the dumpster. Could make a much more compact unit to use. Better for Men than women.

[@donwyates]

I have to say, this was the best (overall) video I've seen on van dwelling. Highly informative, and very entertaining - no small feat, that. You two should do more shit together. ;-)

[@jycfrnkl]

This was really helpful. I don't want to deal with dumping tanks on a camper all the time, a portapotty sounds like a useful addition to my camper to extend dumping times.

[@toptobottom247]

The kids were watchin this video and were absolutely wide-eyed and silent and some giggling. Priceless Thank you for the info.

[@mikefussell8991]

Kitty litter works in a bucket with trash bags and a seat.just toss it in a dumpster when done.

[@denverwoodard.8506]

Thetford makes a variety of Toilets for the camping and RV enthusiast, they also produced one of the first toilets for NASA. It was on board the SkyLab space station.

[@donnabacon4681]

The Big Bang Theory has an episode where Howard designed the toilet for the Space Station - it was Hysterical! I am sure though, his was ~not~ the one!!! 😆

[@Bazdavies1]

I like you're style Bob-- The biscuits in the bucket cracked me up---Well it seems ok to me to dump a dump in a dumpster. Nice one mate. Cheers.

[@jonessenoj6753]

That bucket insulation toilet with 2 bags....is nothing short of genius 👌...and dog biscuits below....this is what youtube was made for ! Many thanks 👍

[@emmamc6552]

I used a porta potti at home when I had a lodger in my 'one bathroom' home. Very cheap en suite. I 'gifted' it to my bros for their 80's festival camper and got a real en suite built. I've since had a child and missed my porta potti so bought a new one as a downstairs toilet and it's been the best investment for toilet training and saves me bringing my 3 year old upstairs when we need to use the bathroom. I love it and maybe when my child is a bit older, we'll live on the road. We've the toilet thing mastered. Much admiration from Ireland 😉 💚

[@emmamc6552]

@Harry Clams I used the porta potti so I was in control. No probs there tg 😊 however, not sure I could say the same for the lads after a weekend festival in an old camper van 😂

[@davidrobbins4078]

A much needed help video for a vital need. I've used bucket's, old toilet seats on buckets, snap on toilet seats with lids, & ashes & sand in buckets with small garbage bags. Dumpsters are used to dump later or big holes are dug to burn with fuel of some kind if you don't mind separate the plastic from the poop. In that case I use sand & ashes & burn in hole.

[@havefunbesafe]

You approached a sensitive subject with integrity and class! Thanks!

[@bellavita3097]

You could use vinegar and water for cleaning, less harsh. Funny video, every Marine could relate;)

[@alwaysseekadventure3235]

Bella Vita you smell like poop

[@aardvark1956]

Thank you for dealing with an ESSENTIAL topic sensibly & maturely (and with a bit of humor). 👍🏼

[@derickderidder7785]

Now how in the world did you find a pretty lady out in the middle of nowhere. And you somehow got her to do a video with you talking about poop. Your a skilled man. I will learn someday.

[@teddybear4020]

as a trucker . i use 5 gallon bucket and 2 bags and then put in trash . ya at some customers it was way tooo far at some locations , and or in bad neighborhoods . or in very back row at truckstops . or in location where there is no restrooms . and some restrooms are filthy and not so private . evan rest areas your body just will not allow u to wait. u must go now !!!! . it is also SAFER too not having to get out of truck at the truckstps or bad areas. !!

[@jenniferbruns2432]

Great video! Thank you for sharing. I am just now getting into the life! I bought an older RV go$1800.00 and I started staying in it last Saturday! It needs some work. I am excited to fix it up and remodel it!

[@gwenkilby]

At exactly 17:00 Bob says: "Have you ever had any accidents while spilling it?" CLASSIC, I love it!

[@annjones3186]

We use a LUGGABLE LOO and KITTY LITTER that is for multiple cats. We use Tidy Cat 24/7 version. Works GREAT! No smell, or mess. The Luggable Loo has a comfortable toilet seat that comes with it, and is lightweight. Line the bucket with kitchen garbage bag and put about 4 cups kitty litter in the bottom of the LOO. After use add a bit more litter - especially if you had to poop. Lift the garbage bag out of the LOO and throw in garbage. EASY!

[@lorilange8654]

Great idea..Kitty litter

[@lhughes6656]

I don't understand why more nomads/campers don't do this! They all just go straight into a bag. It works but personally I want as little smell as possible. The kitty litter is a great idea, so is sawdust or hamster chips. Wrap it up and toss. Those other more modern units just seem like extra work to me 😄

[@teresanoel4035]

Great video. I got very lucky, I found my Porta potty at a second hand store identical to yours for a whopping $5.00. Brand new. Box had a little water damage and it was an older model, but all seals and water pump worked perfectly. I just love being in the right place at the right time to find great deals.

[@jodicaraccio6529]

When I get on the road in a van someday, it will be the porta potty. It just makes so much sense. Loved the demo!

[@tianiemitchell5692]

you seem like a very nice person, who enjoys helping . I like the way you try to make people feel comfortable by making light of the basic facts of life. I like the way you talk and the way you laugh. The little things you know.

[@jerryhamm2454]

I discovered y'all on 9/2/2019 while looking for something interesting to watch on my computer. Y'all are cool and honest. Love the way everything is explained in detail. Thank you for the videos. Love y'all, God bless.

[@ninarose7506]

As usual, lots of great info here. I would add that keeping urine and feces separate goes a long way toward reducing smell. The SheWee tool and a Folger's coffee bucket works for me, and then I use another bucket for #2. (Sometimes it's not possible to do each function separately, but I've made strides in training myself to be able to do so.) Also, I have a spray bottle filled with water for making wet wipes with TP instead of using the packaged wipes, which are not often biodegradable. I fill another spray bottle with 91% isopropyl rubbing alcohol to sanitize hands as well. (Don't get them mixed up! Owie!) Amazon sells biodegradable "plastic" bags, too. Reduce packaging and waste.

[@TheChimpoko1]

Biodegradable plastic bags are are not better. They just break down into microplastics faster than normal plastic. That's the only difference

[@theuktoday4233]

I'm just starting this life in the UK at age 64, I was wondering about this topic and you covered it excellently ha ha

[@bardothodol4472]

So... how the things going?

[@janicemckinnie6965]

Bob you’re so informative and entertaining to boot. I love your solutions and appreciate all that I’ve learned from you. I’ll be practicing in my car with the bucket, pipe insulation and plastic bags. I never would have known this had not discovered you. Thank you for all you do for man and womankind.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thank you Janice. I wish you the best on your journey. Glad to be of help!

[@kriskeilman2087]

"We had to tear out the carpet in our van". That can be interpreted in many different ways lol

[@WildWestGal]

Just ordered it at Walmart. Here it is: Thetford Campa-Potti MT 3.2 gallon $69.96 If you don't live near Walmart, the shipping is free. Otherwise, you can pick it up the same day, or within a few days. Pay online and they notify you when it's ready for pickup.

[@jt414]

Yeah amazon always costs more! -- don't understand why people use it 🤨-- I have yet to find a single item that amazon sells that can't be found for less, elsewhere -- maybe it's just cool to say "I got this on amazon" and you pay for that privilege -- Not me

[@williamcharnow9038]

Thanks for the Tips. It's hard to do nowadays but years ago when homeless up in the mountains in Santa Barbara CA for 400 days there was something incredible about pooping outside in all kinds of weather and nobody around.

[@iprofox3758]

Hahaha truth.

[@janiealexander9450]

I concur. There is something very satisfying about it.

[@brianmi40]

Great low cost PEE POTS are simply dollar store laundry soap and therefore essentially free since you can use the soap. They don't have the fancy spout that store brands have, and are just a wide enough opening and have a solidly closing lid (as evidenced by not spilling the soap)... Amazon has biodegrable bags similar to those shown, about $12 for 100 of them. Using these means that you can store them in a sealed box until you can get into boondocks, and environmentally safe to simply just bury them. Rule of thumb is get 200' off the hiking trail and away from any stream or river before you dig. Also know that many areas require that you carry out all used toilet paper, so you should have something like a plastic Walmart bag inside a zip lock style bag, that way you can double bag it for easy and clean scent free removal and disposal. Iodine Tablets are pretty cheap these days for water purification also. They'd be an excellent choice to use to capture river water and purify it plenty good enough to shower with since they actually make it potable. Just use some filter for sediment like a coffee filter and you've got great shower water. $6 for enough to purify 50 gallons of water on Amazon, if you can shower in a gallon of water by getting wet and using easy rinse soap like Dr. Donner's (expensive) or a Catile Soap (cheaper), that's 12 CENTS A SHOWER to purify the water. Does look like a solidly good design for the porta potty shown. I see that Thetford even makes a 2.6 Gallon, which would be lighter still for those concerned with the weight since full it would be less than 25 lbs, and down to $89 now even at Home Depot. A key favored option by many wasn't covered, and that is composting toilets, where liquids and solids get stored separately, and the solids have some saw dust, or other material added to promote natural composting of the material. Most reviewers say they love theirs and never face any smell, though they do need to be vented to have airflow through the composting area, which allows the natural breakdown to occur.

[@vickiechristianson5459]

We bought the Thetford for our small sailboat. Works like a charm. Ours doesn't have the full indicator, but that's the only difference. It's easy enough to see how full it is when we flush it though. Great video guys.

[@lynnsheffield8506]

your videos are always so common sense informative... thank you

[@gugamentor]

Bob's bucket + plastic bags is the most simple and effective

[@michaeldemarillac9992]

In Australia we use a sauce sqeeze bottle to rinse the bowl, it is very effective. To prep the base container mix/stir a large capful of napi san, or other oxi booster powder together into one litre/1 quart (US) of water in the base helps breaks the waste content down and it is safe to empty into septic tanks without affecting the anerobic bacteria content, active ingredients in the powder have usually bubbled away by then. Finally to also manage the smell you can squirt some Eucalyptus oil that sits on the water in the base. One container of Napi San can last one month full time. Also on a daily basis if you like you can add a teaspoon of the powder as a top up.

[@elq5317]

Which method are you refering to here, the bowl of what? A portapotti?

[@michaeldemarillac9992]

@@elq5317 I was referring to the bowl part of the porta potty. The sauce bottle with a twist nossal when rotated correctly can emit a strong jet of water to remove debris in lieu of a toilet brush. I use it on my yacht and don't want to have to use too much water or wash toilet brushes. The nappi San powder and oil (to keep it fresh), goes into the water reservoir at the bottom and also suggest top up with a spoonful of powder each day to keep it smelling nice. That avoids using polluting chemicals. Please note industrial porta potty chemicals and nappi San are not compatible and you need to thoroughly rinse the bottom container with water and ensure you do not use the harmful chemicals as well. The benifits is you can empty the porta potty without releasing non biodegradable chemicals that traditionally come with the porta potty in the shops

[@elq5317]

@@michaeldemarillac9992 Thanks, can you put down your brand of sauce bottle, so I can google it. We don't call things exactly the same here in the US haha so would like to see what you mean. (If you want to have a lot of eyes on you here just say "pass the sauce please"😂😂😂😂) But Sounds like it works great thanks for the pointers.

[@michaeldemarillac9992]

@@elq5317 Masterfoods Barbeque Sauce, made in Australia. Sqeezy. If you cannot get this type of bottle you can purchase a spray bottle from your local hardware store.b it is just as useful. Goodluck

[@elq5317]

Ah thanks. Kinda like a ketchup bottle.

[@clapoutloudclapoutloud]

Good video with some sound tips for those who travel and might want to set up a bucket for the toilet needs. When you are out there is not always a toilet available this solves the problem.

[@lauraroberts8879]

We used the same Thetford Porta Potti in a 13 ft Burro travel trailer for 18 years. Seals were never a problem. I've recently bought another to use when traveling in my "motor home" (alias VW Golf!). Due to a vision problem when not wearing my contacts, afraid to try to leave my tent to find a bathroom in the middle of the night even when I have facilities. It was easiest to choose a design I was already familiar with and had great luck with.

[@fullercrowley]

Haha, that gal just sold me on a Thetford portapotty! Thanks to you both. :)

[@Beanmachine9198]

Great pooptorial,brought back memories of an old Apache pop up camper,anweekends with paw paw and gram, He built a wooden box with a toilet set on it for gram at night,with a a 2.5 gallon galvanized bucket in it, My job in the mornings was go dump it hose it out add a little water and pine sol and it doubled as an xtra seat In the camper gram did not like any public toilets 🤣😂🤣I am reaching back 40+ years or so🤣😂🤣

[@tomasr64]

I invented the Dood-R which is a mobile composting toilet which goes back into the garden not the dumpster. Been using it for 3 years. You should see my garden.

[@armancha23]

Best grade A compost there is! our city recycles waste water and gives the compost out, its like hulk steroids for green haha.

[@John-bb4wk]

I dont think carnivore compost is safe for veggies. Please research that topic before consuming food from this form of compost.

[@matteos69]

thank you. I got rid of my toilet in my trailer and start a composting pile. But now I'm going on the road and I was freaking out about what I was going to do with my poo. This helps greatly and I just got a good shovel. I know it's important to be away from any bodies of water. I think 200 feet away but I will look it up. Plus I might have to do the trash bag and wood chip thing but I am I uncomfortable putting it into the dumpster. Guess I'll get it over that quick

[@mik1700]

Great information for those trying to figure this out. Just a couple things to add… Pooping in nature goals: Minimize water contamination, social aesthetic impacts and spread of disease while maximizing decomposition. Decomposition occurs in the top soil or upper layer of soil which can be 5-10 inches in depth. Recognize in high elevations, far northern latitudes, slow growth environments etc, that layer will be much thinner and decomposition will take longer. PLEASE DO NOT leave toilet paper (or whatever you wipe with) in the hole when in nature. Bring a zipper bag and pack it out! To keep the natural areas clean and pristine that many of us love to visit follow leave no trace ethics. “According to Leave No Trace principles, you should pack out any non-human waste with you, including biodegradable toilet paper.” This also includes food scrapes and pet poop. It takes t.p. 1-3 years to decompose and wet wipes 100 years, orange and banana peels 6 months, tampons and pads 25 years, cigarette butts up 10 years, diapers 500 years. Choices: 1. Use a toilet. 2. Pack it out (check rules, some areas require it). There are products for this. Choose this also for certain environments: alpine, winter, water (river, lakes, ocean…) canyons, popular areas, etc. 3. Dig a cat hole, where allowed. 200’ (70 adult paces) from water sources, trails and campsites. Depth 6-8” most places, 4-6” arid desert and large enough to keep the poop at that depth. Pack out t.p. Fill hole back in. Foster a Stewardship Culture

[@donnabacon4681]

​@@vickykey792Very informative, I say!

[@tianiemitchell5692]

In all seriousness thank you I'm sure hundreds of people truly appreciate it as well as myself thank you also for the smile and the laughs

[@deeterry580]

Yep, polite conversation is not about pooping. However, all of us have those questions. Thank you for the information. It's appreciated!

[@tomfreeman8977]

Kendal is such a cute Assistant!

[@valeriepetty5853]

Who did very little when the wind blew.

[@mamaboocee]

I find that a home depot bucket lined with 2 heavy duty plastic bags - filled with clumping cat litter works well with a camping toilet seat (with legs) placed above it. I then have a little shower tent from Walmart set up which gives me privacy once camp is set up. When done pooping, just scoop out the clumps and seal them in a ziplock freezer bag until you can dispose of properly. Keeping it in the ziplock will prevent it from decomposing, so emptying it into a toilet would be environmentally safe as long as you have flushable litter. The litter is great because you can scoop out the poop and urine both. No spill no mess. Be sure to get the home depot bucket lid. Also mixing with baking soda is good for odor elimination, but most cat litters a great as long as you scoop it after every use. Cleaning with vinegar and/or hydrogen peroxide is effective to kill germs. Happy travels!

[@judeduffell6620]

Your method makes more sense to me than all the others I have heard and read! Cat litter is not cheap, but it's very effective, and if one could not afford it all the time, it would sure be a good backup plan. Thanks!

[@MichaelWilliams-ro9bm]

Bucket= cheap

[@mamaboocee]

@@MichaelWilliams-ro9bm bucket and a bag!

[@MichaelWilliams-ro9bm]

@@mamaboocee -when you gotta go in the middle of the night, you’ll change your tune. What do you do with the bag then?? Line them up for morning??

[@e.danielkingsley3694]

Excellent candid discussion of life-critical problems. Thank you!

[@ruthmarini8453]

That was really good info delivered with gentle humor. Good job, Bob.

[@astrocalm812]

My current toilet for my van saves space. It's the "Turbo Toilet". It is very strong & well made. It pops up and uses bags. Love it's zippered case and small sized when collapsed.

[@ambergood6266]

"My waste is as good as anybody's waste." You're funny. Great video.

[@Bedragld69]

That was a standout line. My first time watching the old man's videos. Yep, I'm subscribed.

[@robertallen5686]

..he ain't that old..

[@rogerpacific8824]

Very nice job done. Great hummer. That Thetford model is a really good unit. I have had one for 17 years and it still works great. Now a downfall when last year I got the Thetford curve. Got it in the fall and put it in storage until the next summer. Got it out and it has a push button and batteries I installed and it pulses. I thought it was neat. Well went camping with our trailer and it worked great. The next time we took it out 3 weeks later I reinstalled the batteries because I do remove them when not in use. Then I pushed the button and smelled something burning. Duh..... The electronic unit fried itself.. I called Thetford and yes they would send me; a new one for $125 dollars. Because it went all winter and spring not used I was now out of warranty. The Curve was only $225 and they want $125 just for that stupid switch unit. Never in my life. It went to the dump and I took m;y old one and put it back in the trailer. The old one with the hand pump on the side still works fine. I will never get the CURVE again. Bad experience and good luck if anyone has one. The old hand pump does a lot better job of washing the waste down than the pulsing one did. It was a very poor wash. It just needs a push you can pulse it. The electronics is so small it can't hold up. Really bad idea.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for sharing your experience Roger. I prefer simple systems myself for that reason.

[@logmeindangit]

Great "humor," I think you meant. We don't need to hear about your private intimate activities...

[@tomhicks4097]

Thanks. This is the most helpful site on the web. And you and your collaborators are pleasant to listen to.

[@missyholtmansspecialchanne762]

Bob, thank you. I am drinking wine while watching your videos. I appreciate the lady talking about the Thetford. She is giving me information I needed.

[@johninwi3994]

Just wear a dog costume and go in people's yards.

[@rocknroll6332]

What the!!!!

[@aheadsup6492]

lol what could possibly go wrong?

[@chevyvantravel9735]

LOL

[@masterone3882]

lmao. Going to have lot a dead dogs by the blues...

[@jimh.5286]

Works until the people's own dog comes out in a territorial, angry mood, or worse, in an amorous mood...

[@bryan17293]

Baking soda is the best cleaner and absorbs odor. Cheap!

[@robertallen6710]

..genius..

[@bobfalkon9304]

Also Napisan. Kills the smell and disinfects.

[@artistaloca4]

Feline Pine

[@harryballs5080]

I’ll bet it wouldn’t work on my turds. Sometimes I can’t believe how foul my stench is!

[@jittaun248]

@@harryballs5080seems time to change your diet

[@GatorLife57]

I miss her being around. She has a cute personality. Thumbs up... ENJOY... THE SIMPLE LIFE

[@dianeabraham4868]

Wolf Travels2 ,

[@ericjohnson1472]

As a lone bloke full time grey nomad, I use a tall 5 litre plastic gerry-can to wee into and a plastic bucket with toilet seat and bag to poo into, I use Glad no leak bags, and always put used tissues and used paper towels into the next to be used poo bag. I will try the pool noodle seat though, as I find the supplied plastic seat uncomfortable and too small. Thanks for another great video Bob

[@koningbolo4700]

Porta potty are great. We use ia slightly modified one in our long weekend camper van but only for number one messaging. (in a REAL REAL REAL pinch we do the larger emails as well though) If you use the Porta Potty just for the peeing you can do something like I did to it: I added a little bubbler stone and a small aquarium bubble pump to the waste (bottom) water tank to aerate the water. The reason being is to fight odors. You may or may not know odors from pee are coming from it aging (aka stale urine) and the associated build up of ammonia (figure the surprise I had when you said you use ammonia to clean/freshen the Porta Potty, but oke) You can combat ammonia naturally but you need 2 things in the water: 1. nitrifying bacteria and 2. dissolved oxygen. The first you can add to the waste tank upon first time use from a little bottle which can be had from any aquarium supply store (sold as filter starter fluid, which I keep in my box fridge btw) the second can be introduced from the air via a aquarium air pump and bubbler stone setup. I drilled a discrete hole in the top of the waste tank, put a very small rubber bulkhead thingy in the plastic, introduced a small length of tubing and a bubbler stone inside the waste tank and routed the tube to a very small aquarium bubbler air pump velcro-ed to the side of the porta potty. I have it setup in such a way the pump runs only while I drive around. I can obviously switch it on manually, which I do when it he waste tank is getting near capacity for several hours during the day. Obviously I added a very small vent to prevent air pressure creating a problem/mess to the top of the waste water tank. We use the porta potty with two people and the amounts of ammonia are small enough that 2 hours of aerating after each use (our messaging schedules luckily coincide rather well) the bacteria (who need and use the added oxygen) can convert the ammonia into odorless nitrates and nitrites (which are actually plant fertilizers, so dumping the waste tanks contents is actually helping nature in a natural way) The air pump uses ridiculously little power (about 1,5 W at 240V) and as such can be run off my household batteries (which are being charged by 200W solar and the van's alternator) for a very long time... There are zero odors coming from the waste tank and it is safe to dump the waste water in nature.

[@beerichman5019]

Nice assistant

[@lorismith3072]

So glad you clarified that what was in your bucket was your toilet paper cuz as you wrapped it up I thought, "Damn, Bob...what you been eatin', man?" Lol. JK Good video. Urine your element. 😂😂

[@CheapRVliving]

Ha! :)

[@NeneSchnabel]

CheapRVliving k

[@Hydrana1]

Bob, you and Carolyn are the perfect couple!

[@waswestkan]

The portable loo I bought came with a 7 G. bucket, so it's a bit higher making it easier for old cripples to use.

[@GilligGirl]

I bought a 5.3 gallon Camco (Amazon $86) that I am very happy with. Looks very much like the Thetford and has the same features. The tank is heavy but if you don't let it go too long, it's not bad to carry (I am 65 and pretty strong). My granddaughter and I use this every summer when we go camping and we LOVE it. I got a pop-up tent for it, too, so it's not in the tent. My only regret is that I didn't get this sooner!

[@icemangresham]

I use a 7 gallon bucket it’s 17inch tall perfect height for handicap bathrooms. I use two layers rubber pipe insulation around top. And 13 gallon trash bag double up. Works perfectly toilet paper, and clean wipes. Works better than any working toilet. It is the cleanest way possible

[@themanilafolder2284]

That port a potty looks less crude than the former but is 10 times nastier to empty out.

[@kimberlywentworth9160]

@Drakilicious Love the graphic words. Funny.

[@cheesetoast99]

@Drakilicious From what I understand, you poop in the bag, then tie it up right away and use a new bag the next time. Correct me if i'm wrong, but I don't see why it would smell if the bags are tied up.

[@dickhay953]

I totally agree

[@sl2608]

Manila Folder: I agree. Was thinking exactly the same. Looks like it would be hard to empty and hard to clean. I'd rather do the bucket/plastic bags. So much easier to empty and no cleaning!

[@tracyrupp1936]

This was the first Bob-video I ever watched. Funny, but appropriate. I appreciated the dedication to not leaving a footprint.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for watching Tracy!

[@astrocalm812]

Next, I made my own version of "double doodie" or "Wag" bags. On Amazon I bought "soil moist granules by "roots naturally". If using a plastic bag (13 gal fits great) in any of my toilets for poo & pee together, I add 1-2 Tablespoons of these gelling crystals and it completely gels shortly into an easy to manage bag. Tied up and sealed into a gamma lidded bucket til disposal.

[@cathietonkin5577]

Astro Calm now this is a good idea! No worry of ‘splashing’... Thank you!!!!

[@lauriestlyon8773]

I am in the UK living on a canal boat. Thetford is a UK company and they are pretty standard fare unless they have a pump out or, slowly gathering fans, a composter. The larger bottom tanks are heavy even for a guy. I had engine trouble and had to lug it a full mile! I put my back out lugging water back to the boat! I have found bottom tanks in skips so I have two spares! Note that there are differences in model and generation so not all tanks fit all models. The maker says to use chemicals but I stopped as I ran out and just never bought any more. I think there is less smell without. I use water in the flush but have a spray of diluted disinfectant. I cruise a defined area due to work and child contact but am planning to get a Van to convert to go further afield. Although conditions, laws and brands are different here I enjoy the videos. Thanks.

[@lloyddorsey3744]

one of the most important videos for travelers. Many thanks.

[@bryciadelano3742]

This was great and I laughed so hard about the hidden treasure in your bucket! Thank you for the awesome tips!

[@eladionunez2032]

Shovel is my favorite. Out in nature breeze feels good.

[@lareneandpipsqueeksully]

I use a rubber glove and wash well afterwards! This is excellent! Thank you!

[@rockholiday7344]

I cut a hole outta the seat of a plastic lawn chair,glued a toilet seat on top 5 gal metal paint bucket hot embers and ash from campfire to sanitize.I called it the " Crapper 5000".The hot coals just turned waste into dried clumps like clumping cat litter but NO smell.I miss the old 5000.I had a special,"pooping poncho"you could put on it covered you and the whole unit so you could use it discreetly and nobody could see but everybody knew,ridiculously funny! Moving river=Aqua Dump also dollar store baby wipes,priceless.Unfortunately I have to go in a nice bathroom with sea shells,and potpourri,candles,flowers I HATE IT!!

[@williamcochrane8469]

Just watched your interesting video and would like to add.....If you line the porta loo with a plastic bag for a poo and use a cable tie after you finsh it can be of easily disposed of in a trash bin (dumpster)....saving the tank capacity for pees only which is alot more pleasant to empty, also the chemical mixed with the flush helps it to stay clean and fresh. Tried and tested many times on the road.