Staying Clean & Comfortable, While Doing “Your Business” in the Woods

by | May 6, 2025 | Overland

Let’s be honest—one of the biggest camping dilemmas? Bathroom business. Squatting in the woods can be messy, uncomfortable, and let’s face it—a serious leg workout! 😂

When we started our Overland Vehicle Rental Business, I knew we couldn’t send clients into the Idaho backcountry without a solid plan for answering nature’s call, literally and comfortably. After trying a variety of camping toilets, here’s a breakdown of the best (and worst) options out there:

Thetford Porta Potti Campa Potti XG   💰 ~ approx. $135-$200

A self-contained unit with a flush system that keeps odors down.

Find Similar Products and Online Dealers here 🔗 Thetford 

Pros:

✔ Portable & easy to use
✔ Self-contained—great for off-grid camping
✔ Durable, weather-resistant

Cons:

❌ Bulky & requires storage space
❌ Needs additional solution/tablets (sold separately)
❌ Dumping at a station is required

GO Anywhere Portable Toilet + WAG Bags   💰 ~ approx. $50-$80

Eco-friendly, lightweight, and uses waste bags with a gel solution to solidify liquid waste.

Find Info on Products here 🔗 CleanWaste, or buy on 🔗 AMAZON

Pros:

✔ Lightweight & folds to briefcase size
 ✔ Odor-neutralizing & hygienic
 ✔ Stable three-leg design

Cons:

❌ WAG bags are required & can be pricey
 ❌ Small waste space—removing netting helps
 ❌ Legs can be tricky to fold back up

InstaPrivy   💰~ approx. $149 + shipping

Portable, no-water toilet with super-absorbent gel waste bags. Comes with a wearable privacy shelter. 

Find Info and Buy Product here 🔗 More Info

Pros:

✔ No water required
 ✔ Odor-free & eco-friendly
 ✔ Packs complete kit into a backpack & holds up to 230 lbs
 ✔ Shelter included

Cons:

❌ Pricier than other options
 ❌ Shelter can be tricky to fold up — practice beforehand!

Portable Camping Commode   💰 ~ approx. $30-$60

Basic, lightweight, and can be used over a hole or with waste bags.

Similar products found on Amazon

Pros:

✔ Inexpensive & widely available
 ✔ Easy to clean
 ✔ Sturdy frame

Cons:

❌ Limited waste capacity
 ❌ Can be unsteady on uneven ground

The Good Ol’ Cat Hole Method   💰 ~ approx. $5-$20

The classic dig-a-hole-and-go approach.

🔗 GSI Outdoors Cat Hole Trowel

Pros:

✔ 100% biodegradable
 ✔ No gear required (except a shovel)
 ✔ Environmentally responsible

Cons:

❌ Requires digging
 ❌ Not always possible (rocky terrain)
 ❌ Must be at least 200 ft from trails & water sources

BONUS: The Tinkle Belle Female Urination Device   💰 ~ approx. $30

A funnel-like device that allows women to pee standing up.

🔗 More Info

Pros:

✔ No need to squat
 ✔ Reduces UTI risk
 ✔ Small & discreet

Cons:

❌ Learning curve—practice at home first!
 ❌ Potential for spills if not positioned correctly

When it comes to overlanding and camping in the wild, staying comfortable while taking care of business is key. Whether you’re in the Idaho backcountry or a remote campsite, having the right gear can make all the difference. From the sturdy Thetford Porta Potti to the minimalist cat hole method, there are plenty of options to suit every style and budget.

The key is balancing convenience, comfort, and environmental responsibility. Portable toilets offer great hygiene and odor control, while eco-friendly solutions like WAG bags and gel waste bags reduce your impact on nature. If you’re willing to rough it, the classic cat hole method is still a go-to for many—just be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Whatever your choice, planning ahead will keep you clean, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the wilderness without worrying about where to go when nature calls. Happy overlanding! 🌲🚙💧