Adding a toilet is one of the biggest upgrades you can make to a vintage trailer that didn’t come with a bathroom. Whether you’re looking for convenience, privacy, or simply avoiding late-night trips to the campground restroom, installing a toilet can make camping much more comfortable. The addition of a toilet is an investment you will likely re-coup if you decide to sell your trailer. The good news is that you don’t need a built-in blackwater system to add a toilet—there are plenty of easy-to-install options to fit your needs.
Choosing the Right Toilet
Depending on your trailer’s space and plumbing setup (or lack thereof), here are the top toilet options to consider:
Porta Potty – A self-contained, portable option that uses a chemical tank to break down waste. These are affordable, easy to use, and can be stored in a cabinet or closet when not in use. Simply empty the waste tank at a dump station when needed. Shop on Amazon
Ceramic RV Toilet – If you’re willing to install a blackwater tank or connect to an external tote tank, a traditional RV toilet provides the closest experience to a residential setup. These require a water supply and waste disposal plan. A 3” gate valve can be installed to drop waste directly through the floor, allowing connection to a septic system at an RV park. Shop on Amazon
Dry Flush Toilet – This waterless option uses special liners to wrap and seal waste after each use, eliminating odors. Since there’s no need for plumbing or a holding tank, installation is as simple as setting it in place. Shop on Amazon
Composting Toilet – A great eco-friendly choice that separates liquid and solid waste. These reduce odors naturally and require minimal maintenance, but they do take up a bit more space than some other options. Shop on Amazon
Urine-Separating Toilet – Similar to a composting toilet but specifically designed to separate liquids from solids to minimize odor and make waste disposal easier. Shop on Amazon
Where to Put It?
If your vintage trailer doesn’t have a designated bathroom space, you may need to get creative with placement:
Closet or Cabinet Conversion – Many trailer owners install a toilet inside an existing closet or cabinet for a hidden and space-saving solution. Just be sure to add ventilation if needed.
Under-Bed or Bench Storage – Some portable options can be stored under a bed or seating area and pulled out when needed.
Small Partition or Curtain – If you have some extra space, adding a simple partition or curtain can create privacy without major modifications to your trailer’s layout.
Managing Waste Without a Blackwater Tank
If your trailer doesn’t have a built-in blackwater system, you still have options:
Portable Waste Tanks (Tote Tanks) – These are rolling waste containers that can be used with RV-style toilets and emptied at a dump station.
Gate Valve Connection – Installing a gate valve that drops directly through the floor allows for connection to a septic system at an RV park, eliminating the need for a blackwater tank.
Composting or Dry Flush Toilets – Since these don’t require a blackwater system, they can be installed almost anywhere and are easy to maintain.
Campground or Public Restroom Backup—If you only need an emergency option for nighttime or bad weather, a simple port-a-potty can be a great solution.
Final Thoughts
Adding a toilet to your vintage trailer doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With so many easy-to-install options, you can find a solution that fits your space, budget, and camping style. Whether you go with a simple porta potty or a more advanced composting system, having an onboard toilet can make your vintage trailer experience even more enjoyable.
Questions or comments? Let us know.
