Let’s face it: when nature calls, even the most adventurous of us need a practical solution. In the compact space of a camper van, toilets can be a tricky topic. At Roost Vans, we’ve spent plenty of time evaluating different options, weighing the pros and cons, and considering the needs of families on the road. Here’s our philosophy on handling “bathroom business” in a van, our toilet solution, and why simplicity always wins.
The Smell Factor: Keeping Your Van Fresh
The first hurdle with any toilet system is managing odors, especially in a confined space. Let’s be real: no matter how healthy your diet is, it’s not going to smell great. That’s why our approach focuses on minimizing smells while keeping the process simple and effective.
As parents, we understand the challenges of potty training, late-night bathroom runs, and the occasional emergency. Most of the time, van toilets are used for quick middle-of-the-night pee breaks or for helping kiddos who can’t make it to the nearest restroom. It’s rare that they’re needed for “the other business”—and when they are, we’ve got a plan for that too.
The Roost Solution: The Loo Bench
At Roost Vans, we’ve opted for a straightforward yet functional solution: the Stansport EasyGo Loo, paired with our custom-designed Loo Bench.
Why the EasyGo Loo?
- Simplicity: No chemicals, no power requirements, and no complex ventilation systems.
- Flexibility: Use it inside the van or easily remove it for outdoor use in a picturesque forest or secluded spot.
- Ease of Cleaning: Empty it into a flushing toilet or bury the waste responsibly in the woods.
The Loo Bench: Discreet and Practical
The Loo Bench is more than just a storage solution—it’s a thoughtfully designed cabinet that keeps odors contained and the toilet out of sight when not in use.
- Tight-Seal Design: The EasyGo Loo’s lid and the Loo Bench’s snug-fit spring-loaded top work together to lock in odors.
- Extra Storage: Space for toilet paper, toiletries, and cleaning supplies ensures everything is in one place.
- Invisible Convenience: When not in use, the Loo Bench blends seamlessly into your van’s interior.
Other Toilet Options: Why We Say “No Thanks”
We’ve evaluated a variety of toilet systems, including cassette toilets, composting toilets, and the Laveo (our nickname: the Diaper Genie). Here’s why they didn’t make the cut:
- Cassette Toilets: Require chemicals and careful disposal. Not ideal for van lifers who prefer a simpler, less messy option.
- Composting Toilets: Bulky, complex, and require constant power for ventilation. Plus, the fan system adds a continuous draw on your battery.
- Laveo Toilets: While convenient, they involve sealing waste in disposable bags, contributing to landfills instead of returning waste to the earth.
By sticking to the chamber pot solution, we’ve kept things affordable, straightforward, and eco-friendly.
At Roost Vans, our design philosophy prioritizes usability and practicality. Complicated toilet systems with chemicals, power requirements, and extensive maintenance don’t align with our vision of van life. We believe your energy should go toward adventure, not troubleshooting bathroom systems.
A Quick Recap of Our Approach
- The EasyGo Loo: Simple, chemical-free, and portable.
- The Loo Bench: A discreet, odor-controlling cabinet with extra storage.
- Minimal Waste: Avoid landfills and unnecessary chemicals by flushing waste in a toilet or burying it responsibly.
- Keep It Simple: Avoid bulky, expensive systems that add complexity without delivering significant benefits.
When it comes to van life, less is often more. The Roost Vans approach to toilets is designed to provide what you need, when you need it, without overcomplicating things. Whether you’re potty training kids, handling a late-night emergency, or simply appreciating the freedom of life on the road, our system ensures you can focus on the journey—not the logistics.
Next time nature calls, you’ll be ready. Happy travels from all of us at Roost Vans!