Roughing it shouldn’t mean holding it.
When you’re camping far from the nearest drop dunny, nature always calls, usually at 3 am when it’s freezing, dark, or raining sideways. A DIY camping toilet saves you the stress of wandering into the bush with a torch and a roll of paper. Done right, it keeps you comfy and clean, and keeps your campsite tidy too.
Ready to sort it? Here’s how.
Why Bother With a DIY Camping Toilet?
A good bush toilet setup keeps your camp cleaner and your crew happier. It means:
- Better hygiene, especially if you’re staying longer than a day or two.
- Kid-friendly trips, no scrambling for hidden bushes.
- Less environmental impact, pack it out properly and leave no trace.
What to Think About First
Before you build your DIY camping toilet, sort the basics:
- Location: Pick a spot that’s flat, private and at least 50 metres from camp, water or trails.
- Privacy: Pair your setup with a quick ensuite shelter for wind and modesty.
- Disposal: Plan how you’ll handle waste. Bags, bury, or carry out. Know the rules for your park or bush block.
1. The Bucket Loo
The most popular DIY camping toilet idea? A trusty bucket. Here’s the simple version:
- Grab a sturdy 20-litre bucket with a lid.
- Add a snap-on toilet seat lid (sold at most camping shops).
- Line the bucket with a heavy-duty compostable bag.
- Cover each “visit” with sawdust, wood shavings, or even cat litter to control smell. Some campers even sprinkle a handful of coffee grounds to help absorb liquid and odours.
- Seal the bag, tie it off and pack it out when full.
If you prioritise privacy, the Fast Frame Ensuite Single is ideal. It pops up fast, stands strong in the wind, and gives you your own toilet corner away from camp.
2. The DIY Flush-Free Throne
Want something sturdier? Build a simple seat box or frame for your bucket:
- Use scrap timber or a plastic drum cut to size.
- Cut a hole in the top for the bucket to fit snugly.
- Add a seat — an old toilet seat or sturdy plywood works.
- Line it the same way with bags and sawdust.
This version sits higher, so it’s comfier for longer stays. Keep a roll of duct tape in your kit, handy for quick fixes or sealing liners if needed.
3. The Foldaway Toilet
This one’s all about easy pack down. Get a folding camp toilet frame or make your own from PVC or aluminium tubing.
- Build a lightweight frame with four legs and a seat ring.
- Add a clip-on bag holder underneath.
- Fold it flat when you break camp.
Remember to cut the seat hole neatly with a utility knife, and stash a roll of paper towel for quick clean-ups.
Quick to pack in the car, perfect for short trips. Team it with the Pop-Up Privacy Ensuite Dome — it springs open in seconds, no fiddly poles.
4. Add a Bush Bidet or Wash Station
It’s not technically the toilet, but cleaning up is just as important.
- Grab a small pump sprayer or squeeze bottle.
- Use it for a quick bush bidet or to rinse hands after.
- Keep soap, wipes and sanitiser handy — all stashed in a waterproof tub.
Simple and effective for multi-day trips.
5. A Basic Composting Setup
Staying put for a while? Go next level with a mini composting toilet.
- Separate liquids and solids — two buckets or one bucket with a divider.
- Add cover material like sawdust or dry leaves.
- Store solids in a sealed tub until you can dispose of them properly (check local rules).
- Liquids can be diluted and poured well away from camp if allowed.
It’s more work, but saves hassle for long off-grid camps.
6. The Pool Noodle Seat
This is one of the easiest upgrades for a basic bucket or drum. Cut a cheap pool noodle open lengthways, fit it around the rim of your bucket, and you’ve got a cushioned seat. It’s light, comfy and costs next to nothing. Great for kids or short trips.
7. The Folding Chair Hack
Turn an old folding camp chair into a toilet frame:
- Cut out the seat fabric in a neat circle.
- Place a lined bucket or sturdy bag underneath.
- Add a snap-on seat if you like.
Folds away like any camp chair and saves you from carrying an extra frame.
8. The Milk Crate Toilet
Sturdy milk crates make good bush thrones if you’re stuck. Flip it upside down, cut a hole in the base, line it with a bag or place it over a dug hole. It’s rough but works in a pinch, especially for overnight hikes or basic car camping.
9. The Off-Ground Tarp Cubicle
Not technically a toilet itself, but stringing up a simple tarp or old shower curtain between trees can make an instant private cubicle for your DIY loo. Handy if you don’t have a pop-up ensuite and want quick privacy. Anchor with guy ropes or pegs.
10. The Long-Stay Barrel Toilet
For longer off-grid stays:
- Get a big plastic drum with a tight lid.
- Fit a toilet seat to the top.
- Add sawdust or dry peat after each use.
- Seal it when full and transport it for proper disposal later.
Works like a mini long-drop toilet, but portable.
Tips to Keep Your DIY Toilet Clean
- Pack biodegradable liners and spare bags.
- Keep a small spray bottle of disinfectant handy.
- Store loo paper in a sealed dry bag, no soggy squares!
- Always bring a small trowel or spade, just in case you need to bury anything responsibly.
- Always follow local regulations about burying human waste and carrying it out where required.
Pair It With a Shelter
Privacy makes your DIY camping toilet so much better. OZtrail has a few smart shelters to keep your business out of sight:
- Fast Frame Ensuite Double: Room for a toilet and a shower in one, perfect for families.
- Pop-Up Double Ensuite Tent: Two separate stalls so you can keep your loo and wash space apart.
- Ensuite Duo Tent: Quick up, quick down, plenty of space for longer trips.
Practical Applications
Family Camps
Buckets and folding frames are great for kids. Add an ensuite tent for privacy — everyone’s happier, cleaner, and the bush stays pristine.
Solo Adventures
If it’s just me, a simple bucket toilet does the job fine. Light, cheap and easy to stash in the car.
Remote Stays
If you’re camping longer than a week, try the composting style. Less mess, less impact, and you won’t run out of bags on day three.
No Time for DIY? Go Ready-Made Instead
Having your own camping toilet means you’re not stuck hoping there’s spare toilet paper at a long-drop or drop dunny when nature calls. If building your own bush loo sounds like too much faff, skip the hammer and grab one that’s good to go. OZtrail’s ready-made portable toilets make staying clean and comfy a breeze, with zero DIY drama.
A portable camping toilet like these means no stress: just set up, do your business and pack it out.
Check these out:
- The Thunder Down Under Toilet is compact, sturdy, and easy to empty when the trip’s done.
- The Bush Dunny Camping Toilet is simple, reliable and tough enough for rough campsites.
- The Portable Toilet is a no-fuss classic that does the job, perfect for weekenders or longer stays.
Sometimes, the best DIY camping toilet idea is letting OZtrail handle the hard work for you.
Camp-Ready and Good to Go
A DIY camping toilet keeps you comfortable, protects the bush and saves midnight dashes with a shovel. Whether you’re roughing it solo or camping with the family, these DIY camping toilet ideas make life off-grid much more civilised. With the right materials needed (and a little know-how), you can make a DIY camping toilet that works just as well as a store-bought one.
Plan ahead, pack smart, and enjoy the great outdoors, toilet sorted.
FAQs About DIY Camping Toilets
Can I just dig a hole?
Yes, if rules allow. Make it deep, at least 15–20 cm, cover properly, and do it well away from camp or water.
Where do I dispose of waste?
Most bags can go in the general rubbish if double-sealed. Or drop at a dump point. Never leave waste behind.
Is a DIY camping toilet legal?
Yes, but always check local rules, especially in national parks or campgrounds.
What’s the best privacy option?
A good ensuite shelter is the best. Pick one that’s quick to set up and big enough to stand in comfortably.