Here’s a comparison of the three most popular campervan toilets: cassette flush, composting (separating solids/liquids), and dry flush (bag-sealing):
🚽 1. Cassette Flush Toilet
How it works: Uses water to flush waste into a removable cassette that you manually empty.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | – Familiar, like a home toilet – Compact – Easy to find service points |
| Cons | – Requires chemicals – Cassette needs frequent emptying (every 2–3 days) – Can smell if not cleaned |
| Maintenance | Medium – regular cassette emptying and chemical top-up |
| Cost (AUD) | $400–$1,200 (plus installation) |
| Best for | Short trips, access to dump points |
🌱 2. Composting Toilet (Separating Solids & Liquids)
How it works: Urine goes into one container, solids into another. Solids dehydrate and break down (often with coconut coir or peat moss).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | – No smell when used correctly – No water or chemicals – Long time between emptying solids |
| Cons | – Bulkier than cassette – Must empty liquids every 1–2 days – Upfront cost |
| Maintenance | Low – empty solids every 2–3 weeks (for 2 people), liquids every 1–2 days |
| Cost (AUD) | $1,200–$2,000+ |
| Best for | Off-grid living, eco-conscious users, long-term use |
🧻 3. Dry Flush Toilet (Bag-Sealing)
How it works: Each flush seals waste in a bag (cartridge), which is later disposed of in general waste.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | – No water, no smell – Very clean and hygienic – Easy install (no plumbing) |
| Cons | – High ongoing cost (cartridges) – Not eco-friendly (plastic waste) – Limited capacity |
| Maintenance | Low – replace cartridge after 15–17 uses |
| Cost (AUD) | $1,200–$2,000+ plus $3–$5 per flush |
| Best for | Minimalist builds, part-time use, no access to dump stations |
🔚 Summary Table
| Toilet Type | Water Use | Chemicals | Smell | Emptying Frequency | Eco-Friendly | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cassette Flush | Yes | Yes | Medium | Every 2–3 days | 🚫 No | 💲💲 |
| Composting | No | No | Low | Liquids: 1–2 days Solids: 2–3 weeks | ✅ Yes | 💲💲💲 |
| Dry Flush | No | No | Very Low | Every 15–17 uses (cartridge) | 🚫 No | 💲💲💲 |