Top 5 Best Hiking and Backpacking Toilets (2026 Edition)

Top 5 Best Hiking and Backpacking Toilets (2026 Edition)

As outdoor recreation continues to grow in popularity, the impact of human waste on wild places is hard to ignore. Trails are busier, campsites are more heavily used, and fragile environments are feeling the strain. Improper disposal of human waste can contaminate water sources, spread illness, and damage sensitive ecosystems that take decades to recover. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing more discouraging than hiking all the way to a pristine alpine lake only to discover someone else’s toilet paper scattered around. Gross.

So what’s the solution? Education is a big part of it. Teaching backpackers and hikers to follow Leave No Trace principles—and to actually practice them—is a solid starting point.

For years, digging a cathole has been the default method for answering nature’s call in the backcountry. But many are reluctant (even resistant) to digging and properly burying their waste. There has to be an easier and more convenient option.

Thankfully, things have improved. In 2026, portable toilet systems designed specifically for backpackers and hikers offer a more comfortable, hygienic, and environmentally responsible alternative. Modern designs are lighter, more compact, and easier to pack than ever before—making it practical to carry a proper solution without sacrificing precious pack space or weight. In this guide, we’ll explore five of the best portable toilet options for hiking and backpacking, helping you choose a system that protects wild places while making your time outdoors just a little more comfortable.

#1. The Carry Anywhere Commode (Link to Learn More)

Best Ultralight/Ultra-Portable Sit Down Toilet

The Carry Anywhere Commode

We are a little biased, but the Carry Anywhere Commode is a standout for hikers and backpackers prioritizing low weight and compact packability. Its simple fold-up aluminum frame and complete kit (including bury-able waste bags and biodegradable cotton toilet paper) make it ideal for dayhikes or backcountry trips. Even better, the new Hybrid model (patent pending) is multi-use, doubling as both a folding toilet and comfortable camp chair. Despite its small size, this model shines when every ounce counts.

• Cost: $60–$85 (depending on the model and bag style)

• Weight: 1.5 lbs (standard) 1.9 lbs (hybrid) — ultralight

• Packed Dimensions: 13″ × 7″ × 2″ (folded)

• Features: Aluminum frame; biodegradable waste bags, 100% natural cotton wipes, absorbent powder & hand sanitizer are all included; easily supports 250 lbs; super easy set up and take down.

• The Good:

  • Family owned & operated small business located in Idaho, USA.

  • Ultralight, Ultra Compact, and Multi-use (Hybrid).

  • Environmentally friendly solution.

  • Allows you to set up the potty in one place (with privacy) and dig a cat-hole in another place (with softer and suitable soil).

  • Lifetime Guarantee, no questions asked.

• The Bad:

  • Small size can take some getting used to for taller folks.

  • Not the cheapest on the market. These Commodes are assembled, packed and shipped in the US, which does typically cost more that products sold by overseas companies. 

#2. PACT Bathroom Kit (Link to Learn More)

Best for Gram Counters Still Willing to Squat

PACT Bathroom Kit

The PACT Bathroom Kit isn’t a seat, but a compact waste management system ideal for ultralight hikers and backpackers. Rather than carrying a folding seat, this kit gives you a hygienic way to prepare a cathole and responsibly do your business. Perfect for solo or ethical minimalists who don’t want extra structure in their packs.

• Cost: $40–$50 (depending on the model)

• Weight: 4 oz (lite kit) 11 oz (bathroom kit) — crazy light

• Packed Dimensions: 10″ × 4″ × 2″

• Features: Outdoor bathroom kit with trowel, wipes, fungi tabs, and hand sanitizer; smart, compact design.

• The Good: 

  • Great small business located in Colorado, USA.

  • Eco-friendly product focused on sustainability.

  • Lifetime guarantee.

  • Easy to use, well thought-out products.

• The Bad:

  • No seat, so still requires squatting to answer nature’s call. 

  • Not the cheapest solution. Again, it is a US based company and does cost a bit more than other overseas based products.

#3. D&J Backcountry Bathroom (Link to Learn More)

Best Minimalist Outdoor Bathroom Solution

D&J Backcountry Bathroom

The D&J Backcountry Bathroom takes a different approach — it’s more of a wearable/strap-aided squatting setup than a frame seat. It’s extremely lightweight and encourages a natural squatting position with adjustable support, making it appealing for minimalists who want the lightest possible solution that still offers posture support. However, comfort will vary by user preference. 

• Cost: $25 

• Weight: 13 oz — super light

• Packed Dimensions: 10″ × 6″ × 2″ 

• Features: Adjustable belt/strap design; ergonomic support for squatting; lightweight & packable.

• The Good

  • Makes it a little easier to squat down and maintain your balance. 

  • Lightweight and ultra-portable.

  • Minimal equipment. 

• The Bad

  • Does require a tree to attach to. This is problematic in certain areas.

  • It takes practice to get set up just right. Sometimes you are still higher up than you want to be.

  • Because you have to use a tree to support you, your cathole has to be dug right below the tree, often into root systems. 

  • Does not include any accessories (wipes, sanitizer, etc).

#4. Treklean Portable Toilet (Link to Learn More)

Best Sized Toilet if You Don’t Mind Carrying Some Bulk

Treklean Portable Toilet

The Treklean Portable Toilet is a classic choice for hikers and backpackers who want a traditional seat and don’t mind carrying some of the extra weight and bulk. Its collapsible design means it sets up and breaks down quickly for outdoor use. The stable design is a great “basic but reliable” option for those who want a portable toilet without fancy add-ons.

• Cost: $40

• Weight: 3.75 lbs

• Packed Dimensions: 18″ × 5″ × 5″

• Features: Polyamide (plastic) material seat and 6061 aluminum frame; includes carrying bag and a roll of 10 waste bags; supports up to 350 lbs. 

• The Good:

  • This is the largest toilet we tested in both height and sitting space.

  • Relatively inexpensive compared to other models.

• The Bad:

  • Heavier and quite a bit bulkier than other products on the market.

  • No warranty, guarantee, or customer service (sold on Amazon only).

  • Not marketed as a muti-use product.

#5 HHuanwfer Collapsible Potty (Link to Learn More)

Best Budget & Entry-Level Portable Potty Option

HHuanwfer Collapsible Potty

If you’re looking for the most affordable portable toilet option for your pack, the HHuanwfer Collapsible Potty delivers a no-frills solution that’s surprisingly versatile. Its simple polypropylene construction collapses flat for relatively easy storage. It doesn’t have the premium feel, accessories, or ergonomic sophistication of higher-end backpacking toilets, but that’s part of the trade-off for its low price and basic portability.

• Cost: $35 

• Weight: 4 lbs 

• Packed Dimensions: 12” × 10” × 3” 

• Features: Polypropylene (plastic) folding stool and portable toilet; includes carry/storage bag and a roll of waste collection bags; supports up to 300 lbs; simple manual folding design

• The Good:

  • Multi-purpose stool and toilet. 

  • Durably made and should last a long time.

  • Easy setup and take-down. 

• The Bad:

  • While it stores flat, it is still somewhat large and bulky for a backpack.

  • Heaviest of the toilets tested.

  • Does not include many accessories (wipes, sanitizer, etc).

Thanks for reading!

We hope this guide is useful in helping you select the best hiking and backpacking toilet for your needs. And thank you for doing your part to keep our outdoor spaces clean, safe, and accessible. Happy Trails!