DIY campervan bathroom guide

It’s one of those commonly asked questions when it comes to van life: should you take on a DIY campervan bathroom build? With so many places to stop along the way when nature calls, these facilities aren’t hard to come by.

But there's something extra convenient and comforting knowing that you can access a toilet and/or shower wherever your travels take you! The great news is you don’t need to give up much space in your campervan, either.

Below, we guide you through how to create the perfect DIY campervan bathroom. With so many options when it comes to adding a toilet and shower to your campervan conversion, there’s a solution for every layout, budget and level of building skill!

Showers for your DIY campervan bathroom

What a luxury! Knowing that no matter where you stop on your travels, you will have access to clean, running water and won’t have to worry whether or not that odor is coming from you. There’s nothing quite like feeling nice and refreshed after a day out walking and seeing the sights.

Here are some of the most common campervan showers to choose from.

Portable Hot Water Systems

A portable hot water system will offer you the best camping shower experience during your travels. They offer the warmest water at the best flow for the longest period of time. Of course, this convenience does come with a higher price tag attached, and will take up more space in your campervan.To heat this type of shower, you’ll need access to a gas supply, or else lithium or 12V batteries.

Pros:

• Heat water quickly

• Have temperature controls for ultimate comfort

• Wide range of versions available

Cons:

• Relatively large and heavy

• Need a power source

• Not as wallet-friendly as many other options

Our pick: Watertech

Heat Exchangers

A heat exchanger can be used to heat water from the engine in your van. By installing a heat exchanger under the bonnet, using a pump and attaching hoses to your vehicle, you can enjoy pressurized hot water – and then even recycle it! Now that’s a clever DIY campervan bathroom feature!

Pros:

• Works with any vehicle type

• You can forget the need for additional power sources

• Doesn’t take up much space and is always accessible

Cons:

• Relatively complicated to install - you might need to hire a professional mechanic

• Expensive

Our pick: Heat Transfer

Solar Showers

As you might expect, these showers use the heat from the sun to provide warm shower water. While there are a number of different versions on the market, they generally consist of a black PVC bag that is hung somewhere hot to warm up, then you simply pop on a tree and let the water flow down as you shower when ready. It won’t take up any indoor space in your campervan, but also takes a lot more planning.

Pros:

• Affordable

• Simple to use

• Lots of variety and easy to source

• Environmentally friendly

Cons:

• Relies on sunshine and heat to warm up water

• Water may get dangerously hot depending on where you use it

• Water pressure can be weak without a pump, as it is delivered by gravity

• Limited water capacity for larger groups

Our pick: 20L Solar Shower

Pressure Showers

Unlike the previous option that is lifted above your head and relies on gravity, a pressure shower rests on the ground and delivers optimal pressure for your camping needs.

Pros:

• Quick and easy to set up

• As the name suggests, it delivers great water pressure

Cons:

• Doesn’t maintain heat very well

Our pick: Kiwi Camping Portable Pressure Shower

Compact Camping Showers

If you’re looking to save space in your DIY campervan bathroom, this is the best way to do it. All you have to do is fill up the bag with water, hang it up and twist the nozzle for the water to flow.

Pros:

• Light and simple

• Packs away very small for easy storage

• Very affordable

Cons

• Cold water

Our pick: Sea To Summit Pocket Shower

Toilets for your DIY campervan bathroom

While it’s overly convenient being able to attend to Mother Nature whenever you need, there are also plenty of downsides that come with popping a toilet inside your campervan.

For one, no matter what option you go with, it will need to be emptied at some stage. And the smell that comes with it can be overbearing. Here are some options when it comes to campervan toilets that could work for you.

Porta-potti

If you’re looking for a toilet that has your back in an emergency, the Porta-Potti is a great pick. With an easy-to-use manual piston pump and a holding tank level indicator(so you know when to empty), it’s light and convenient. It even chemically controls odours so you don’t have to worry about the smell!

Pros:

• Comfortable

• Lightweight

• Easy to transport

Cons

• Large size can make it hard to carry with camping gear

Our pick: Thetford Porta Potti

Budget Portable Toilet

If you’re happy to do away with modern conveniences, then this toilet is suited to your needs. It’s getting back to basics with a comfortable seat, fitted with a bag for you to tie up and do away with your waste afterwards. After all, when you have to go, you have to go!

Pros:

• Light and simple

• Packs away small for storage

• Very affordable

Cons:

• Have to dispose of waste straight away

Our pick: Folding Toilet Chair

Portable Composting Toilet

This is the most eco-friendly option for your DIY campervan bathroom, however it does come with the price tag to match. After relieving yourself, simply add some peat moss or sawdust and the toilet will break down any waste into compost.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Expensive

• Bulkier than other options

Our pick: Enviro Composting Toileting Systems

Test out bathroom ideas before you build with a campervan rental

If you’re unsure which direction to go with your DIY campervan bathroom, it may help to try before you buy! Hire a self-contained van on Camplify to experience the luxury first-hand and decide if a WC on wheels is worth it. To see what’s available, take a look at these awesomevans with showers and toilets or head over to our rental listings and filter by amenities.

And to complete the bathroom, check out these campervan sink ideas!

Why Camplify?

Each year, heaps of Kiwis earn up to $10,000 by hiring out their campervan through Camplify. It provides a quick and easy way to generate long-term passive income and earn a return on their investment.

And the best part is, Camplify takes care of many of the expenses involved in hiring out your vehicle, including:

• Comprehensive hire insurance.

• 24/7 AA nationwide breakdown cover for hirers.

• Dedicated customer support.

If you’re interested in joining Camplify as an owner, try our earnings calculator and see how much income you could generate each year by renting out your unused campervan!