Thanks for your support! If you make a purchase using our links in this article, we may make a commission. And, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See the full disclosure here.
Pop-up campers with bathrooms have come a long way over the years. Susan owned a pop-up camper and all it had was a cassette toilet and no shower!
But today’s popup campers with bathrooms are amazing! They can now include an RV style toilet with black and gray tanks, and both indoor and outdoor showers making them more convenient than ever!
When it comes to popup campers, bathrooms often take priority, and for good reason. This feature keeps you from having to stray in the woods at night or while it’s raining. It also makes camping trailers feel a little more like home, and that’s worth aiming for.
If you’re after a camper with a bathroom, you’re not alone. There’s no shortage of models sporting toilets, indoor or outdoor showers, and the works.
Do yourself a favor and take a look at our list of the 7 best popup campers with bathrooms. By the time you’ve reached your next camping destination, you’ll be proud to own a tent camper as cozy as your home base.
Advantages of Pop-up Campers with Bathrooms
If you’ve narrowed your RV search down to pop-up campers, here are the factors you’ll want to consider before purchasing a specific type:
A pop-up camper is by far the “easy peasy” choice in the RV world because its fold-up, lightweight design makes it super easy for most trucks, SUVs (and even cars!) to tow. Because of this, pop-up campers provide the perfect RV for first-time users eager to explore without the headache of a larger RV that may feel intimidating for camper newbies.
Some neat features pop-up campers have when they are expanded into their upright position are: comfortable sleeping, cooking area, sitting area, and some even include showers and toilets.
8 Types of Pop-up Campers
Basically, we have eight types of pop-up campers in the RV industry:
- Tent Trailers
- High Wall Popup Campers
- Hi-Low Popup Campers
- A-frames
- Teardrop Popup Campers
- Motorcycle Popup Campers
- Popup Campers with Toy Haulers
- Off Road Popup Campers
Each of these popup campers is very different and we give a quick rundown of each below:
1️⃣ Tent Trailers
Popup Campers are also known as Folding Tent Campers or Tent Trailers. In the closed position, the roof folds down onto the body of the camper which makes them compact and easy to tow even with a car. When you open the camper the roof “pops up” from the closed position to get to its full height.
Also, the beds are on each end of the camper, creating tent-like spaces for sleeping. This is the feature Susan and I like most about popup campers! We love feeling like we are sleeping in a tent. But we are off the ground on a nice comfy mattress. There is nothing like watching the campfire from bed while falling asleep.
2️⃣ High Wall Trailers
High Wall Popup Campers are the same as tent trailers with two exceptions. They have higher walls and a hardtop. Keep in mind, this model will be heavier than the first option for towing.
3️⃣ A-Frame Campers
A-Frame popup campers are a very popular option. They are more durable because the entire shell is hard-sided and they are super easy to set up. But one drawback is they have decreased headroom which cuts down on the living space inside. To see the best a frame campers check out our article called 10 Best A-Frame Campers.
4️⃣ Teardrop Popup Campers
Teardrop popup campers are popular because, typically, they are the smallest in size and are therefore easier to tow with most vehicles. Check out our article called 20 Best Teardrop Trailers (Plus Video Walkthroughs) to learn even more!
5️⃣ Hi Low campers
Hi-Low Popup Campers, like this Trailmanor, are lesser-known and thus could be harder to find. They use a telescopic hydraulic lift system and are very unique in their design.
6️⃣ Popup Campers for Motorcycles
Many motorcyclists enjoy taking road trips with their mini popup campers in tow. These popup campers are small and light enough to be towed by a motorcycle. We wrote a whole article about them if you want to learn more. The article is called 6 Best Pop Up Campers for Motorcycles.
7️⃣ Popup Campers with Toy Haulers
Popup Campers with toy haulers, also known as decks are an awesome way to bring along your toys for an awesome camping adventure. The rails also serve as ramps to load your toys (or whatever) you want to load up. For more info about the best popup campers with toy haulers check out our article called 5 Best Pop Up Campers with a Toy Hauler.
8️⃣ Off Road Popup Campers
There are popup campers and then there are hard core off road popup campers. These off road popups are built to be durable and take any punishment you can dish out to get to the most remote camping destinations you can find! For more info about off road popup campers check out our article called 7 Best Off Road Pop Up Campers.
Regardless of which option you chose from above, pop-up campers are a step up from tent camping without going all in on a larger RV.
Having your own bed, kitchen, and even a possible toilet are obvious perks of jumping into a pop-up camper purchase.
What Kind of Bathrooms Are In Popup Campers?
As if the decision on which trailer to buy wasn’t enough, you have to decide what kind of bathroom you’re after, too. There are two different kinds of toilets to look out for, as well as multiple powder room configurations. Your idea of which one is best depends on the preferences of you and your family.
1. Wet Bath
In pop-up camper terms, a wet bathroom means that the toilet seat exists within the shower stall. This allows campers to have full bathrooms without the added space. Just be aware that your toiletries may get damp, so store wisely!
2. Dry Bath
In contrast to the wet bath, a dry bathroom features a toilet that’s separate from the shower. This style is reminiscent of a residential bathroom. However, it does take up more space, which is something to be mindful of. To learn more about the different types of bathrooms check out our article called How Are RV Wet Baths and RV Dry Baths Different?
3. Fully Enclosed Bath
Some pop-up campers make use of actual walls to surround the bathroom space. This gives some pleasant privacy when you want it most.
4. Curtained Bath
Oftentimes, trailers with bathrooms separate the space with just a curtain. It gives a bit of privacy and keeps the water from splashing outside of the space. You are camping, after all, so it’s still a good gig.
5. Cassette Toilet
Just because a camper doesn’t come with a bathroom doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Many floor plans allow for a cassette toilet, too. When camping, this can be a real luxury (don’t knock it ’til you try it)! Susan says, when her daughters were younger it was nice to have a toilet in the camper rather than walking her daughters to the campground bathroom.
6. Outdoor Shower
Some campers come with just a toilet inside. These may also feature an outdoor shower that you can use to rinse off when you need it. Even if an outdoor shower doesn’t come with your camper, you can always add one.
Can You Shower In a Pop Up Camper?
If your pop-up camper has a full bathroom, a wet bath, or any other type of bathroom that involves the addition of a showerhead, then yes! You can shower in your pop-up camper.
Some pop-up campers have exterior showers that can be used for showering, too. If your pop-up camper has an exterior shower, consider purchasing a pop-up shower privacy tent and take a shower in the great outdoors.
Should I Use RV Safe Toilet Paper in My Pop-Up Camper?
7 Best Pop Up Campers with Bathrooms
1. Forest River Rockwood High Wall Series
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
This camper is not quite an RV, though it sure feels like it from the inside. The Rockwood High Wall Series pop up camper features a bed on both ends as well as a couch space. This means up to six people can sleep comfortably—and with a wet bathroom with hard shower walls and a residential toilet, they can shower comfortably, too.
There are a 20-gallon freshwater tank and a 6-gallon water heater tank fueled by propane. This is a great lightweight pop up camper designed for families. There is plenty of counter space, upgraded appliances and pull up curtains for privacy as well as open views.
2. Coachmen Clipper Classic
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
Another refined pop up makes its way to the list. The Coachmen Clipper is impressively spacious, with a small wet bath right inside. The toilet and shower combo is tucked away near the entrance, with a curtain for added privacy.
At 23 gallons of capacity, the fresh water tank on this trailer is pretty generous. There’s also a six gallon water heater, fueled by propane. Whether you’re cooking dinner or taking a shower after a long day of hiking, you’ll enjoy these perks.
One of the coolest features of the Clipper is its sliding storage space. It’s located on the outside, and you can use it to stow any recreational gear you may bring on your adventures. There’s also plenty of storage inside, whether under seating or within the insulated bunks. The Clipper makes camping trips far more organized, with little effort on your part!
3. Jayco Jay Sport
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
The Jayco Jay Sport may just be the quintessential pop-up. At 18.5′ long when closed and 2,270 pounds when dry, it’s perfect for families aiming for comfort and class. While it doesn’t come standard with an interior toilet space, its floor plans allow for an optional shower bath. All you have to do is pop one accessory into the existing compartment, and you’re good to go.
There is also an outdoor shower for rinsing off dirt and sand during your adventures. When paired with dual pop outs, a sink, stove, and cabinet space, it becomes a true home away from home.
This camper includes a 28.2 gallon freshwater holding tank and a 6-gallon water heater tank. A propane-fueled water heater pump is a part of the picture as well. These features turn a retro-stylish camper into a utility-friendly trailer with ease.
4. A-Liner Family Scout
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
The A-Liner Family Scout comes standard with a shower and toilet. It weighs in at about a ton and measures 18’ in length. It can sleep 4 with one be that can sleep 2 and two single beds too! All in all, it’s perfect for a small family seeking something easy to lug around.
As for the bathroom, the A-Frame comes with a wet bath right inside. This feature accompanies not one, not two, but three beds. For a group of four, it’s really the perfect size. A dinette, sink, and seating also make their way indoors. On the exterior, a kitchenette slides out, inclusive of a fridge and propane-powered stove.
LED lighting and fiberglass construction keeps things modern. A wall mounted A/C unit and Parks package which includes an inside sink with city water hook up are optional.
5. Forest River Flagstaff
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
Forest River is a big name in the RV world, but that’s not the only thing it’s good at. This brand does pop up campers well, too. The Flagstaff is a fantastic example, what with its very own shower and toilet.
The bathroom is only a portion of this trailer’s amenities. A stovetop, fridge, and outdoor grill set the stage for any barbeque. Meanwhile, a gas heater keeps you cozy in the colder months. The fact that you don’t have to leave the warmth to go to the bathroom is just another plus.
Getting off the grid is a good feeling, but sometimes having access to technology is just enjoyable. A new Flagstaff comes with a WiFi range extender, plenty of outlets, Bluetooth speakers, and even a security system! While this model leans on the heavier, its features sure make up for it.
6. A-Liner Somerset Utah
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
If a shower is not a necessity for you, this camper is a great option. The Somerset Utah is equipped with not one but two king size beds, as well as an additional slide-out bed. So too does it come with a curtain-covered toilet right inside. Cover the toilet with a countertop when you’re not using it to keep things classy.
While the basic version doesn’t come with a shower, it is an option that you can add. That just goes to prove how versatile this pop-up trailer really is.
The Utah features a spacious storage trunk on the outside. Within, a kitchen and dinette make your tent space feel like a real living area. The fact that this trailer has a bathroom only adds to its quality.
7. Opus Off-Road Air Pop-Up Camper
Get upfront price offers on local inventory.
The Off-Road Air is a beast of a popup camper. It weighs in at 2870 pounds and features a beefed-up suspension and tires to handle any off-road terrain. It features a slide out kitchen, 40-gallon fresh water tank, built in shower, and sleeps up to 6 people.
It also features an optional air tent that inflates in just 90 seconds and completely covers the popup. These Australian made popups are made to handle “The Outback” off-roading and provide super high quality performance.
What About Odors Coming from a Popup Camper Bathroom?
Let’s face it, nobody likes to talk about a smelly bathroom. But it can and usually will be a problem sometime during your RV ownership. There are several reasons for unpleasant RV bathroom smells, whether it is from the shower drain, sink drain, or toilet. But probably the most stinky of the three problems are RV toilets, of course!
For starters, let’s assume you have been using RV toilet chemicals in the black water tank. Also, we hope you have kept in mind to never use a toilet without a good base of water in your black water tank. Once you have these two major items checked off your list, we can get down to some basic RV toilet cleaning.
Here are five tried and true cleaning hacks that are sure to get rid of your bad RV toilet odors:
1️⃣ If a natural cleaning approach is your preference, try this easy DIY housekeeping solution using three ingredients you probably already have handy: 1 cup white vinegar, ¼ cup baking soda, and 5 drops of your favorite essential oil such as lavender or lemon.
2️⃣ Using the right type of toilet paper in an RV is essential. Believe it or not, a super thick toilet paper brand can lead to clogs, which leads to stinky RV bathrooms – yuck!
3️⃣ Another good ‘ole fashioned trick is bleach. Bleach eliminates most of the odor coming from your RV toilet because it reduces the disease-causing germs that create the smell.
4️⃣ Dumping your tank regularly should be an essential chore on your RV to-do list. A full tank equals a smelly tank!
5️⃣ Last but not least, if your RV toilet is an ancient throne, it may be time to renovate your bathroom and invest in a brand new toilet altogether! With all the different types and designs on the market, you can instantly fix the problem by simply replacing the old fixture.
No matter which of the five options above you pick, we hope this helps you keep your RV toilet sparkly clean and fresh smelling.
Will I Need A Portable Waste Storage Tank?
Portable waste storage tanks certainly have their place in the RV community. Not only do they provide you with extra waste management, but when you are dry camping or having a long stay, and you don’t want to move your RV, let’s say it is a must!
One with a 32 gallon capacity is usually sufficient for an RV couple. The tow bracket simply attaches to your vehicle or RV, so you can pull it behind to the dump station. Usually, everything you need is included with the purchase of these, such as hoses, adapter, and clamp. Storage tanks this size usually cost about $100 – $150.
How do I empty it, you ask?
To empty these, you simply have the tank lay flat, attach the waste hose to the portable waste storage tank while placing the other end of the hose in the RV dump hole.
Where Can I Empty My Cassette Toilet?
If your pop-up camper has a bathroom with a cassette toilet, you’ll need to learn how to dump it. Dumping a cassette toilet is not that much different than dumping your RV holding tanks!
Whether you have a cassette toilet that is accessible from the outside or a portable camping toilet with a removable holding tank, the first step is to remove the waste water holding tank.
Once you have the tank removed from the toilet, you can dump it into any RV dump station. Never dump your cassette toilet into storm drains, into water, or anywhere that’s not approved for regular RV dumping.
Do I Need Special Toilet Paper For My Popup Camper Toilet?
We touched on this earlier in the article, but yes, it is highly recommended that you use toilet paper specifically made for RVs. Although this may be surprising to many new RV campers, it makes sense once you learn how different the plumbing works in your RV compared to a traditional home toilet.
When you go to the bathroom somewhere other than your RV, the water and waste needed to flush the toilet is connected to the city sewer system. But when you use the toilet in your RV, everything gets flushed into the holding tank under your camper. Therefore, you need to dump it to get rid of it.
Now that we understand the difference between an RV toilet and one at home using the right RV toilet paper will prevent clogs, odors, and clumps. Special RV toilet paper can be found at camping stores, some campgrounds, and state parks, and of course, you can find it on Amazon.com!
Suppose, for some reason, you are having a difficult time finding special RV toilet paper. In that case, you can opt for a septic safe brand, which is typically a 1 or 2 ply tissue type.
Hopefully, this one small but very important detail will help keep your RV bathroom smelling great.
To learn even more about using the right toilet paper in your camper check out our article called Is Special RV Toilet Paper Really Needed in an RV?
Do Pop-Up Campers with Bathrooms Have Black Water Tanks?
Not all pop-up campers with bathrooms have black water tanks. A black water tank is a waste tank that holds only waste water from a toilet. Gray water tanks hold waste water from sinks and showers.
If your pop-up camper has a full bathroom, chances are that you also have black and grey water tanks on board.
Some pop-up campers with bathrooms utilize a cassette toilet instead of a traditional RV toilet. If you have a cassette toilet, your waste water holding tank is directly connected to your toilet. To dump these toilets, you simply remove the entire tank and carry (or roll) it to the nearest dump station.
But, if your pop-up camper has a traditional RV toilet, you can almost guarantee that you have a black tank.
If your pop-up camper doesn’t have a bathroom of any type, then it will not have a black tank.
How Do You Empty a Black Water Tank on a Pop-Up Camper?
Emptying a black water tank on a pop-up camper is just like emptying a gray water tank. Items you will need include gloves and an RV sewer hose and sewer hose connections. Additional items that are nice to have on hand are paper towels, a utility hose, and sanitizing wipes.
It’s best to have a full gray water tank before you empty your black water tank. This is because once you’re done dumping your black water, emptying your gray water helps to rinse the hose.
To dump your black tank, securely hook up your RV sewer hose to your black tank connection. Attach the other end securely into an RV sewer dump station. If the hose is not secure in the hole, have someone hold it with their foot or place weights or a heavy rock on top. Once you start dumping the tank, it will pop out of the hole if it’s not secure!
Once your connections are secure, pull the valve and let the tank drain. You can clean your black tank by filling it with fresh water and dumping again. After you’re done with that, dump your gray tank. Then, rinse all your equipment, disconnect, sanitize, and store!
Can I Rent a Tent Camper?
Absolutely you can rent pop-up campers with bathrooms! Popup camper rentals are available on peer-to-peer rental websites like Outdoorsy.
Peer-to-peer RV rentals are way for RV owners to rent their RVs, when they aren’t using them, to people who want an RV rental. Outdoorsy offers a convenient website for people to list their RVs for rent and for you and me to find and rent RVs, (like popup Campers) safely and easily.
To learn more about how all of this works check out our article called Everything You Need to Know About Popup Camper Rentals ~ PLUS Discount Code!
Pop-Up Campers with Bathrooms Take Camping to a Whole New Level!
Your camping experience is yours and yours alone. If you want a potty to add to the mix, or a shower to rinse off the day, good for you! With plenty of bathroom-stocked pop-up campers at your beck and call, the trailer industry has got you covered.
Our list of the 7 best tent trailers with bathrooms proves how diverse the camping world is. It’s no matter whether you’re a family hoping for a carefree holiday or an adventurer who deserves comfort now and again. Just find what suits you, get to the outdoors, and appreciate what you have all the while.
What is your favorite pop-up camper with a bathroom? Please share in the comments below.
For more information about pop-ups or other small campers with bathrooms check out some of our other articles too!
I love the pop-up campers with bathrooms! They are perfect for camping trips.
I love the pop-up campers with bathrooms! They are perfect for camping trips.
Thanks Jim!