Outdoor Blog

How to Empty a Portable Toilet While Camping

Published

4 years ago

February 14, 2020

how to empty a portable toilet while camping

Camping isn’t all that its made out to be. It’s isn’t all sitting around the campfire, roasting smores and telling stories under a clear starry sky. There’s also the dirty work. Cleaning mud from the tent, drying soaking clothes, and yes, disposing of your human waste. Yes, mother nature tends to call a few times a day and she also prefers if after you’ve responded to her call to get rid of your waste in a way that doesn’t harm her. So, let’s have the dirty talk and learn how we get rid of our human garbage while camping.

Some of you guys may go for the traditional method when you’re out in the sticks. Shovel in hand you dig a small hole behind a tree and cower down, hoping no one sees you getting up to your private business. This method tends to work in forest camping spots as you have the cover of trees.

The ground also needs to be soft enough to dig it without putting further strain on your stomach muscles, hastening the call to nature – good luck desert campers! Those of you who like a few of your home comforts when you’re in nature may wish to invest in a portable travel toilet in order to conduct your business in a manner that is somewhat similar to how you would do it at home.

You can poo with a view once you learn how to you a portable camping toilet.

So what is a portable toilet?

Portable toilets come in various shapes and sizes. When choosing your camping toilet you should consider it’s weight, storage capacity, and how to dispose of the waste. There are three main types of portable toilets.

Bucket toilet

This is the most basic type of portable toilet and it comprises of what it says it does – a bucket. To use one of these you put a plastic bag inside and line it up just as you would for a garbage can. This means that the bag collects all of the waste and you don’t have to deep clean it wearing a hazard suit every time you go to empty it. One disadvantage of the bucket toilet is the lack of comfort. A separate detachable toilet seat can be purchased separately so you don’t have to practice squats before your trip.

Another disadvantage of the bucket toilet is that it doesn’t have the ability to separate waste form solids and liquids, so its best to save it for only number twos unless you want to have a liquid-filled bag, prone to bursting open at any moment.

Additionally, the bucket does not have an odor removing capacity meaning you’ll need to empty it regularly if you cannot handle the stench. Although it is not the best portable camping toilet, the main advantage of the bucket is that it is a low-cost option so it is ideal if you’re a budget or an infrequent camper. As well as this, it is light and simple to carry and set up, freeing up space in your car when traveling to your campsite.

The compost toilet

Compost toilets are fairly similar to a standard toilet due to it having a flush and they can be among the best portable toilets. The pedestal sits in a higher position than a bucket toilet does, meaning you have less strain on your thighs. Many of them also come along with a toilet seat meaning that they offer a great deal more comfort than a bucket toilet. Toilet paper holders come with some models meaning that you will avoid the potential problem of forgetting when walking from your tent during the night.

Often they have smell erasing components and your waste gets flushed away, meaning that you aren’t faced with everyone else’s waste when you go to do your business. The disadvantage of these toilets is that they are bulky so they take up a lot of space in your car. This can be problematic if your campsite is a long distance from where you parked your car. Compost toilets use substances such as ash and sawdust in order to bond the waste together and allow it to compost.

Chemical toilet

The portable chemical toilet is fairly similar to a compost toilet. Most models have the same features as the compost toilets with the main difference being that chemical toilets contain substances to eliminate the smell. These are the same type of toilet as the porta-potty toilets that you’ll come across at festivals and big public events. Chemical toilets are not as environmentally friendly and the waste collected needs to be disposed of in a suitable manner

What you should look for when buying a portable camping toilet

Disposal of waste: Perhaps most importantly, and being the ultimate purpose of this article is how the waste is disposed of. Chemical toilets normally have substances that turn your urine into a solid. This is practical as it makes the waste a lot lighter and it means that you have less chance of spilling it. Because the waste is hardened and bonded together by the chemicals it makes it easier to clean after you have emptied it.

The tank capacity: When you are selecting which toilet to purchase you should consider how long your camping trips are and how many people you tend to go with. If you normally go with a large group then its best to invest in a toilet that can hold a greater capacity in order for you not to have to empty it out once a day. If you tend to go on a short trip with maybe just or two more people then a smaller toilet is likely to be suitable. It may even be worth investing in more than one toilet if your group size tends to be big because believe me no one wants to have to do the worst task of camping twice in a day!

The size: The size of the toilet is also an important aspect to consider. If you are an RV camper extra consideration should be taken at this point as the dimensions of the RV toilet must be suitable to fit into your camper van. Make sure that it is the correct height if you want it to be a more comfortable experience.

It is also worth checking out whether or not it has a sturdy platform. One of the big dangers of doing your business outside is the ground is not always flat or stable meaning that you could be put in the misfortunate position of the toilet falling over when you’re using it! As aforementioned, make sure the toilet is not too heavy or bulky if you need to carry it over a long distance.

Privacy: Not all of us are like Tarzan and like to have a bit of peace and quiet when unloading our bowels. Maybe there are fellow campers pitched up nearby or there is not a wooded area to give you some privacy from your friends. Nobody wants to be the butt of all the jokes around the campfire later on! If you’re prepared to spend a little bit extra then you can purchase a toilet that comes with a shelter or you can buy one separately, making it almost like a home toilet.

How to empty the toilet

So, you’ve been elected by your camping buddies to get wid of your collective waste, let’s see how you get rid of it with minimum exposure to it and to do the job with your dignity intact.

We should all strive to be responsible campers and dispose of our waste and garbage so we can protect the natural spots we enjoy and also out of respect to our fellow campers. Human waste will decompose over time but it also contains toxins that can be harmful to other campers and for nature.

If you simply empty it onto the ground it will be hazardous for an amount of time, leaving a great stench and a poor fellow camper may have the misfortune of stepping on it. If you are camping without a toilet, then make sure that you bury it under the soil. If you are using a portable toilet then follow these steps to make sure you’re a responsible camper.

Step 1: Find the disposal sight

Most campsites should have a designated area where you can empty your toilets and clean them afterward. These are often discreet spots and a small distance away from the campsite. Once you’ve pitched up your tent take a small wander around the campsite in order to locate it for when you need to use it. It’s not advisable to save this until you’ve removed the cassette or waste tank as no one wants to be searching for where the disposal point is whilst carrying a heavy tub of excrement.

Make sure that you work out a stable path between the authorized disposal area and your tent to avoid slipping or getting stuck while you are carrying your waste as that is the last thing that you want. Also, consider emptying your portable toilet early in the morning or just before the sunset. These times should be quieter meaning you shouldn’t have to queue up to empty and clean your portable toilet.

Step 2: Preparing your portable toilet for unloading

The majority of portable toilets come with two tanks. A freshwater tank and a waste tank. It is best to opt for a two-tanked toilet as these are the easiest to empty. First of all, take off the catch that holds the water tank and holding tank together. When dealing with hazardous substances it is always best to use disposable gloves to minimize the chance of collecting bacteria. The tanks tend to lightweight as they are designed to be emptied when you’re in the backcountry but you may have to walk a far distance with them. If so, the best option could be to empty the tank on a more regular basis.

Step 3: Take your tank to the disposal area

Carefully take your tank over to the designated disposal area, taking your time to avoid any mishaps. Disposal areas can vary in differences. Some of them have open grids that you pour your waste onto and others come in a format that is like a trash dispenser with a lid on.

Remove the cap from the top of the spout of your waste holding tank and hold it carefully preparing it for emptying. Some waste tanks come with a rotating spout. The rotating spout pours the waste further away from your hands and standing position, minimizing the risk of getting splashed. If your waste tank does not have a spout then make sure to a further step back as to not risk getting splashed. Simply pour out the waste onto the grid or disposal tank until the waste has subsided.

Step 4: Washing your waste tank

Close to the waste disposal area, there should be a tap or hose to clear out your tank. Refill the tank with clean water, put the lid back on, and shake it a little to remove any bits that have stuck to the side. Empty the water back into the disposal area and keep repeating the process until the water starts to run clear.

Step 5: Return the tank

If you are still in the middle of your camping trip leave a little bit of freshwater inside and mix in the disinfectant toilet chemicals so it is ready to be used again. If it is a cleanup at the end of your trip then don’t follow this step. Carry the waste holding tank back to your portable toilet and replace it as it was before. If your water tank needs to be refilled then now is the ideal time to take it over to the tank or hose to do so. Dispose of your gloves and wash your hands thoroughly to ensure you haven’t picked up any harmful bacteria.

A person washing their hands under a sink.

Keep your waste disposal a clean and hygienic process.

Emptying a compost toilet

Compost toilets are different from chemical toilets as no substances are used. If you were to empty a chemical toilet into nature, not only the excrement but the chemicals inside can be environmentally harmful. Compost toilets use substances such as sawdust and ash to break down the harmful toxins found in human waste. This makes it appropriate to be disposed of in nature

Your compost toilet normally has a biodegradable bag installed to catch your solids. Once this is full, remove and tie the waste bag carefully. From this point, you have two options. It is legal to dispose of human waste in the general trash – for example, diapers and dog poo are disposed of in this manner – so feel free to use the campsites trash bins for this.

If no bins are available and you’re out in the wilderness then your second option is to bury it. Make sure that you bury it at least 10 inches deep. The deeper the better. The bag is biodegradable so it will dissolve fairly quickly once buried. Take note that because these bags are biodegradable they are made of thinner material. Don’t wait too long before emptying them or they could split if they are too heavy!

Composting toilets have a dry flush and there is no water tank. Instead, the waste is split into two different sections, solid waste, and liquid waste. The liquid section can be disposed of in the same manner as we mentioned for the chemical toilets, at the designated disposable area. If you are in the wilderness then you can also carefully empty this out into the ground as urine is safe to dispose of and won’t be a threat to the environment and future campers.

Final Verdict:

Emptying your portable toilet when camping tends to be the most stressful and least pleasant part of a camping trip, yet it is necessary. There is no worse camper than those who are not responsible when clearing their mess and ruining great camping spots for other people and for nature.

It is important to know how to dispose of your waste correctly and safely and to get into a good practice of doing it. Campsite restrooms are not always pleasant and are often poorly maintained, meaning that many of us put our reliance on portable toilets. We hope you don’t have too much fun doing this job, but we certainly wish you the best in your toilet emptying endeavors!

Bonus tip: Check out this useful video to get an idea of how simple emptying a portable toilet can be!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter