The famous last words of any van lifer, "Do you need to go number one, or number two?" Living van life is an alluring prospect for many, offering the freedom to roam and explore with a home on wheels. However, one crucial decision that van dwellers often grapple with is whether to include a toilet in their mobile abode. While some embrace the simplicity of van life without a toilet, others find it to be a challenging compromise. Here, we will delve into the pros and cons of living the van life without a toilet and, ultimately trying to convince you, why having a toilet may be a crucial element for a more comfortable and sustainable lifestyle.
A night in the van under the Milky Way. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Embracing Simplicity:
One of the primary advantages of opting for van life without a toilet is the simplicity it brings to your mobile living space. Omitting a toilet can streamline your van setup, reducing complexity and making it easier to maintain. For those who value minimalism and prefer a clutter-free environment, the absence of a toilet area allows for a more straightforward and functional living space.
More Space for Essentials:
Another significant benefit is the availability of more space within the van. Without the need for a dedicated toilet area, van dwellers can utilize the extra square footage for other essential amenities or additional storage. This surplus space enhances the overall functionality of the van, allowing for a more versatile and comfortable living environment.
Some quick numbers: a Promaster has 468 cubic feet of usable space and an average size portable toilet and all it's extras will take up roughly 1%.
Weight and Cost Savings:
Adding a toilet to a van conversion can contribute both weight and cost. For those conscious of their budget and looking to improve fuel efficiency, choosing to forgo a toilet can be a practical decision. The weight savings can lead to better fuel economy, while the cost savings can be redirected towards other aspects of the van conversion or used for future travels.
Note: this is if you are installing a toilet that has a holding tank like an RV. Weight is not an issue if you are using a portable toilet.
Flexibility in Parking:
Some locations have restrictions or regulations against camping in vehicles with bathroom facilities. Living without a toilet provides more flexibility in choosing where to park and stay overnight without worrying about violating any rules. This freedom to park in a wider range of places can enhance the spontaneity and adventure of van life.
Outdoor Experience:
Living without a toilet encourages van dwellers to embrace the outdoors and public facilities. Depending on the location, public restrooms, and outdoor spaces can provide a unique and immersive experience. Engaging with local communities and experiencing nature firsthand become integral aspects of the van life journey.
At first this might sound good, but if you are in an area that does not allow wild pooping, you are s#!t out of luck (yes, pun intended). So, if nature is calling and you aren't in a place where you answer the call, what are you going to do?
Inconvenience of No Toilet:
While the advantages are appealing, the drawbacks of living without a toilet should not be overlooked. One of the most significant challenges is the inconvenience of relying on public restrooms, or finding suitable outdoor locations for restroom needs. This inconvenience becomes particularly pronounced during the night or in areas with limited facilities, impacting the overall comfort and ease of van life.
Additionally, what happens if you get sick? A toilet is a nice to have for those just in case moments.
Privacy Concerns:
Privacy is another aspect that warrants consideration. Accessing public restrooms or finding secluded outdoor spots for bathroom activities may raise privacy concerns for some individuals. The desire for a more discreet lifestyle can clash with the reality of relying on public facilities, making this a crucial factor to weigh in the decision-making process.
If you are on BLM land and you have a portable toilet, I suggest moving your toilet out of your van and into an amazing spot with a view! Ideally, you would have a privacy tent as well so you don't bother those around or get stage fright.
Health and Hygiene Challenges:
Maintaining personal hygiene without a dedicated toilet can become a significant challenge. Inadequate access to sanitation facilities poses potential health risks, especially when camping in remote areas. The lack of a proper toilet setup may lead to unsanitary conditions, affecting the overall well-being of van dwellers.
Weather-Dependent Factors:
Weather conditions play a pivotal role in the feasibility of living without a toilet. In harsh weather, finding and using public restrooms or venturing into the outdoors for bathroom needs can be uncomfortable or even unsafe. Having an indoor toilet provides a more consistent and comfortable solution, ensuring that weather conditions do not compromise basic needs.
Watching sunrise from the back of the van in Baja. Photo by Dalton Johnson
While the idea of van life without a toilet may appeal to those seeking simplicity and a closer connection with nature, the overall consensus leans toward it being a suboptimal choice. The inconvenience, privacy concerns, potential health risks, and weather-dependent factors make having a toilet a crucial aspect of a comfortable and sustainable van life experience.
For those embarking on the van life journey, investing in a portable toilet or incorporating a toilet into the van conversion is advisable. The drawbacks of living without a toilet, particularly in terms of health, hygiene, and convenience, outweigh the benefits of simplicity and minimalism. Ultimately, a well-equipped van that includes a toilet ensures a more enjoyable, self-sufficient, and adaptable lifestyle on the road. So, when deciding on the components of your van conversion, consider the long-term challenges and prioritize the comfort and well-being that a toilet can provide in the vast and unpredictable landscape of van life.
