6 Best Portable Waste Tanks for Your RV

Last updated on May 2nd, 2023 at 01:47 pm

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If you’ve spoken to anyone who owns an RV, chances are, you know their least favorite part of owning an RV: emptying their waste tanks. Not every campground or RV park is lucky enough to have a sewer connection – you may not even have water or electric hookups, let alone sewer facilities!

So what do you do when you’re staying a while in one spot but need to empty your tank every week or so? Moving your rig can be exhausting, time-consuming, and stressful, especially if you have to do it frequently!

One easy solution might be to purchase a portable RV waste tank. What’s that, you ask? Let’s discuss this little invention and see why it may be a good fit for your next RV excursion!

We’ve put together a complete buyer’s guide and our picks for the 6 best options on the market. You can see our full list here and keep reading to see an individual review for each!

What Are RV Portable Waste Tanks?

So you’ve heard about portable waste tanks but aren’t quite sure what they’re used for and how they could improve your own RV experience. Portable waste tanks are exactly as they sound: wheeled versions of your black or gray water tanks.

They often come with handles and up to four wheels for more of a wagonlike feel, which means it should make it easier on your body to tow it around. Though you may need a vehicle involved to take your portable waste tank to the dump station, it should be a much simpler task than dumping your RV’s attached tanks.

Owning a portable waste tank means you don’t have to break down your entire camp in order to dump your waste water! It could mean the difference between a relaxing week of camping or a stressful time breaking down and setting up your rig a few times over the course of your vacation.

If you are camping without a reservation and need to dump your tanks, you may run the risk of another camper taking your spot if you need to move your whole rig, so a portable tank really is an option worth giving some thought to.

A portable waste tank may save you time when it comes to the end of your trip too; most dump stations have long lines if most campers are checking out at the same time, say at the end of a three-day weekend.

If you have a portable waste tank, you could be emptying your tank throughout the weekend as well as not idling with your rig while you wait in line, meaning you’ll save time and gasoline costs!

Best Brands of Portable RV Waste Tanks

Not every RV will need or want a portable RV waste tank, but if you’re looking to add one to your RVing lifestyle, you’ll want to invest in a quality option. Emptying waste may not be the most glamorous part of RVing, but it does make life a lot easier and is the correct way to safely dispose of wastewater.

There are only a few brands that manufacture portable RV waste water tanks, and if you’ve owned an RV for any amount of time, these brand names will likely be familiar to you.

Camco

A mainstay in RVs and RV accessories. You’ll most likely recognize their Rhino-branded waste hoses and tanks, as well as many other Camco products. Camco has always been affordable, with many products designed with RVers in mind. 

Thetford

Another RVer classic. My 1976 travel trailer has an original Thetford toilet that still works today! Despite the classics holding up, Thetford continues to reinvent and improve their products for more modern RVers. 

Barker

This brand of portable waste tank may be newer to the game than Camco and Thetford. It has many thoughtful portable waste tank designs, but it comes at a higher price tag than some other options on this list.

Tote-N-Stor

The Tote-N-Stor brand of portable waste tank remains thoughtful and convenient, with rubber wheels and a built-in compartment to store your hoses. Although the most popular design is two-wheeled, this brand is built to last. 

What Accessories Do I Need For RV Portable Waste Tank?

There are a few things you’ll need before you can get your portable waste tank up and running. Most portable waste tanks include these accessories, but you may want to take a close look at the products before deciding.

Handle

Every portable waste tank should include a handle. This is a non-negotiable accessory, given that you will need to lug your tank some distance, and should have a proper handle for doing so.

Some handles aren’t adjustable, but others may extend or collapse as needed which can be helpful if you’re struggling to maneuver the tank. There are also usually handles with a tow bracket built in which is particularly useful if you plan on towing your waste tank behind your car. 

Wheels

A huge decision you will need to make is the number of wheels necessary for your portable waste tank needs. All tanks have at least two wheels, but some have up to four wheels and are styled more like wagons for easier maneuverability.

Although this provides easier movement and towing, it may come with a higher price tag. It’s worth noting the sturdiness of the waste tank wheels as the last thing you want is the wheels not being strong enough and deflating or performing poorly when the tank is being moved around.

Attachment Options

Where you store your portable waste tank when not in use matters. Space is always at a premium in RVs, and you don’t exactly want to keep a portable waste tank in the living room of your RV!

It may be worth keeping an eye out for a tank with easy attachment options to the underside of your rig or the roof to keep it out of obvious sight. Many RVers have ladders attached to their rigs, and this is therefore a popular place to store a portable waste tank.

Fresh Water Hoses and Sewer Hoses

There are two accessories you will surely need: a fresh water hose for ease of cleaning, as well as a sewer hose for emptying your new portable tank. You will most likely want to keep these hoses dedicated to your portable waste tank so that they are always there when you need them. 

The last thing you need is to arrive at the dump station without a sewer hose, so it’s wise to make sure you keep these accessories with the portable tank at all times and even keep an eye out for waste tanks with included storage compartments.

What RV Portable Waste Tank Do I Need?

Portable waste water tanks come in a variety of sizes, but they are also styled differently, in terms of the number of wheels and handle style. Your portable tank needs will depend on certain factors such as the amount of waste water you produce and the size of the tank that will fit in your rig. 

Portable Tank Size

You may think you need a portable waste water tank that is the exact same size as your RV tank. This isn’t a bad idea of course, as it means you can empty your black or gray water tank in one go. However, how are you planning on getting this tank over to the dump station? By car, towed very slowly behind you? Or are you walking it over?

Waste Tank Weight 

If you have a 25-gallon waste water tank, there is something key you should consider: the weight of the tank. Even though the portable waste tanks come equipped with wheels and a handle, a 25-gallon portable tank will weigh over 200 pounds!

Is this a feasible amount of weight for you to carry? If you purchase a portable waste tank with two wheels instead of four, you’ll have to consider what it means to carry this version around as well. Four-wheeled units will be more expensive, but you will have a much easier time lugging them to the dump station!

You may also want to consider a tank that is either larger or smaller than your attached gray or blank water tank. If you get a portable tank with a larger maximum capacity than your attached tank, you will be able to empty the tank all in one go with no fear of spilling. This can be a huge benefit for some RVers.

Budget

The larger the tank, the more expensive things become, and also means it will be more difficult to move This is something worth considering if you’ll be moving the tank without any additional help. If you choose a tank that’s smaller than your attached tank’s maximum capacity, your options will be more affordable.

This also means you’ll be lugging around much less weight. However, you will need to consider the danger of overfilling your portable tank and the idea of making more than one trip to the dump station.

There are more things to consider, but this is a good starting point. Figure out realistically how many trips to the dump station you want to make, as well as your ideal budget.

No matter what, there will be a portable waste tank that is right for you!

What Materials Should I Look For?

Just like everything you own, your portable waste tank comes with an expiration date. This of course depends on how often you use it, the maintenance you perform on it, and what materials it is built out of. It’s important to also mention that your waste tank needs to be kept clean, as when dealing with all waste, harmful bacteria may be present.

There are some materials that may suit your needs more than others, so here are some different ones to keep an eye out for.

Polyethylene Waste Tank

Durable and used to performing in cold climates, a polyethylene waste tank should last you for some time! It’s more solid than some other materials which although increases durability, also means tanks made from this type of plastic may weigh considerably more than others.

Polypropylene Waste Tank

Another top contender for waste tank materials, polypropylene, usually boasts a more lightweight design, useful when you don’t want to add any unnecessary weight to the tank. This plastic is durable throughout all seasons and shouldn’t give you any fuss for years to come.

Rubber Wheels

Some waste tanks come with rubber wheels, which means they should be fillable and patchable. This can come in handy if you’re hoping to use your waste tank often throughout the year. Having rubber wheels may mean more patching and repairs, but can be cheaper in the long run given that you won’t have to replace the entire wheel often!

Plastic Wheels

Plastic wheels are common on portable waste tanks and although they are cheap and easy to replace, you may be surprised at how often you need to purchase a new set.

The chances are slim that you will be able to repair wheels like this; you will most likely end up replacing the whole thing! They are less likely to hold up on gravel roads compared to rubber wheels, so they are an important component of waste tanks worth paying attention to.

The Best Portable Waste Tanks for Your RV

Hopefully, you’re feeling confident about your portable waste tank needs and wants! There are so many options out there, but with the right priorities in mind, you’ll be able to find your perfect match, with no problem. 

Do you know the capacity of your black and gray water tanks? Do you have a plan for how you’re going to get your portable tank to the dump station? How about where you’re going to keep the tank while you’re on the road to your destination?

If you can answer these questions, you’ll be on the right track to finding the ideal portable water tank for you!

So, let’s get started!

Best Beginner Choice: Tote-N-Stor 25608 Portable Waste Transport

Many RVers tend to look for a portable waste tank with accessories and a decent capacity to make life on the road easier and ensure trips to the dump station are infrequent. The Tote-N-Stor 25608 has an impressive 25-gallon capacity, sturdy rubber wheels, and every accessory you might need for using your tank on the road. If you’re anything like me, you like to keep your RV as tidy and organized as possible; it is a small space after all! 

The built-in accessory box with a 15″ garden hose, 3/4″ grey water hook-up hose, garden hose cap, sewer hose adapter, and 36″ of 3″ sewer hose, can all be neatly tucked away in your tow bracket. Being able to tow the 25-gallon Toe-N-Stor portable waste tank means you won’t have to worry about lugging the container around, relying solely on your strength and the wheels.

It’s important for me to be able to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and escape in my rig. Something I have to consider is my wastewater and without a portable tank, I’d be limited to a shorter time off-grid or boondocking.

This Toe-N-Stor tank is easy to carry, store, and use, and is a fantastic option if you want to spend more time out in the heart of the wilderness whilst remaining responsible with your wastewater. 

You can find the latest price on Amazon by clicking here. 

Best Budget Choice: Barker 31342 Tote Tank

Hoping to spend money on a portable waste tank but not break the bank? The Barker brand 31342 Tote Tank may be just what you’re looking for! With a large 30-gallon capacity and reasonable price, it’s no wonder Barker brand products are gaining popularity. Something to consider, however, are the questionable wheels to help move this tank where it’s needed.

Some RVers have reported a poor experience, with the wheels needing replacing after only a few uses. This is frustrating as it means you’ll have to think of an alternative system for your wastewater. To help avoid any issues with the wheels, I would recommend taking your time when moving the tank around to avoid it tipping over or getting damaged. 

This particular model includes a tow bracket, a 5′ sewer hose, and blow-molded polyethylene construction to help improve durability and keeps the risk of leakage low. It will be heavy to tow to the dump station without help, but you will most likely only have to make one trip, saving you time and hassle in the long run. 

Common sense and care will keep this high-capacity Barker working hard for you and your family! 

You can see today’s price on Amazon by clicking here.

Best Four Wheel Choice: SmartTote2 LX Portable RV Waste Tote Tank

Thetford strikes again with another RV staple: the SmartTote2 LX Portable RV Waste Tote Tank. With a large 27-gallon capacity and four wheels to get you where you need to go, Thetford has made a wastewater tank with RVers in mind.

This portable waste tank includes a storage box with accessories including a heavy-duty hose with a universal bayonet fitting, 900 elbow nozzle with handle, and a cap.

The extendable handle is a great function of this tank as it can attach to your trailer hitch, making it very easy to maneuver around. The lead material of this tank is polypropylene making it durable and easy to wipe clean if there are any spillages. 

The design is good, with four heavy-duty wheels and a decent capacity, however, the hose is attached to the bottom of the container which can make things a bit tricky when it’s time to empty the tank.

It may not be the easiest to fully empty the tank, so you may have to swish things around to help the waste get on its way. The video below is a great watch for a more in-depth look at the SmartTote2, so you can take a closer look at everything the tank offers.

A common worry with all RV tanks is the risk of overfilling, as it can lead to water pooling and leading to issues such as mold in your rig. A feature I find useful with the SmartTote2 is the Auto Stop level gauge that prevents overfilling but also accelerates the emptying process.

This is a game changer for me, as I hate causing a queue at the campground when my tank is emptying slowly! This also takes away the worry of overfilling this four-wheeler tank, avoiding nasty spills.

You can see today’s price on Amazon by clicking here.

Largest Capacity Choice: Barker 30844 4-Wheeler Tote Tank

Looking to empty your RV’s attached tank all in one go? The Barker 30844 4-Wheeler Tote Tank is the largest option on the market, coming in at a whopping 42 gallons! It comes with an overfill meter as well as four wheels, which means you should have no problem filling and transporting this little wagon.

This contender will be heavy from start to finish, weighing 47 pounds empty and over 300 when full. For RVers traveling alone, this mighty tank may be a bit too difficult to move around, especially with 42 gallons of wastewater on board! The four-wheeled wagon design and easy hookup and dump options do make things easier, and if you want to gain some bicep size, this Barker tank may be your perfect fit.

When I take a break from my rig and know I won’t be using it for a while, I like to give everything a thorough clean, and this includes my portable wastewater tank. Most tanks should be easy to clean, but this Barker tank makes cleaning a bit more difficult. Even when moved around, tipped upside down, and shaken, some waste tends to remain in the tank, so using a washer or some bleach may be a good idea.

The back wheels are air-filled and made from rubber, meaning they should be long-lasting and hold up well over gravel roads. Just remember to tow this wagon slowly as it will likely be heavy when it’s full to the brim! 

You can find the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

Sturdiest Design Choice: Camco 39006 Rhino Heavy Duty RV Tote Tank

Looking for a portable waste tank that lasts? Check out the Camco 39006 Rhino Heavy Duty RV Tote Tank. Camco has been there for RVers for decades, usually the top name to pop up if you’re looking for RV accessories, and the Camco brand tote tanks are no exception!

This portable waste holding tank is constructed of extremely durable, blow-molded, UV-stabilized materials that won’t leak or deteriorate in the sun. This is a fantastic feature for those spending time in warmer climates in their RV where the sun’s rays may do some damage.

One of the most annoying things when tempting waste tanks is not being able to get all of the water out, as waste left behind can lead to the tank becoming rather stinky! Camco has already thought about this, however, and made the inside of this tank smooth, so it doesn’t trap odors or debris by sloping toward the drain hole, making emptying a breeze!

Weighing 36 gallons, the Camco 39006 Rhino Heavy Duty RV Tote Tank is heavy to shift, and with only two wheels to support a considerable amount of weight, you’ll need to take extra care of the wheels. If you do experience an issue with the wheels and they break or don’t perform well, you should be able to contact Camco and see if you are covered by the warranty. 

You can find today’s price on Amazon by clicking here.

Best of the Best: Camco 39007 Rhino Heavy Duty Portable Waste Holding Tank with Steerable Wheels

Seeing double? That’s because the last portable waste tank we listed was almost the same as this one! The Camco 39007 Rhino Heavy Duty Portable Waste Holding Tank with Steerable Wheels is a number one bestseller across many sites, and there are many reasons why. Just like the previous Camco we reviewed, this design remains clever and consistent, with heavy-duty materials coming standard.

I hate having to purchase the same piece of RVing equipment after only a few months of use, but the durable materials of this Camco should result in a hard-wearing tank. 

This particular version becomes a wagon tow design, with a collapsible handle with two additional wheels attached, which helps improve the durability of the tank, and makes it far easier to move around.

You can maneuver this tank around like a suitcase thanks to the 24-inch tow bar, but it’s worth mentioning that it’s a sizeable tank measuring 15.5″x 25″ x 46″, and weighing nearly 40 pounds before it’s even been filled! Thankfully, there’s a tow kit included so you can move the tank around easier, without merely relying on your arm strength.

You can see the latest price on Amazon by clicking here.

How to Clean Your Portable Waste Tank?

Let’s say your camping season is over, and you know you won’t be needing to use your plumbing system for a while. Knowing how to winterize your RV is vital to keeping your rig in the best condition during storage, but you may be wondering if you need to do anything to your new portable waste tank, and how best to clean the tank in between uses.

Step 1: Dump Black Water

Before you even bring the tank home, you can do yourself a favor while you’re camping and make sure to dump your black water tank first, then your gray water tank. 

If you choose to dump your tanks in this order, you’ll have less of a mess to clean up at home. Gray water may not be the most pleasant thing either, but it’s better than what’s hiding in your blank water tank!

Step 2: Flush Gray Water

By flushing your gray water tank second, the soapy water from your showers and dish sessions will pre-clean your portable tank for you, getting rid of most of the nasty stuff.

Step 3: Spray Portable Tank

Once you’ve emptied both of your tanks, use the water available at dump stations to spray the portable tank out. Once it looks clean, pack it up in the bed of your truck, under your rig, on your bumper, or on the roof.

Step 4: Deep Clean Tank At Home

Bring your portable waste tank home and clean it for long-term storage! Everyone has their own technique for this, but I’m a fan of a bleach soak.

I tend to do one part bleach to 20 parts water, leave it overnight, then dump the solution in the morning appropriately. Usually, this eliminates any lingering odors, but there’s no harm in repeating the process just to be on the safe side!

Conclusion

If you’re worried about your waste water tanks while you’re camping, chances are, you’re not having much fun. These 6 best portable RV waste water tanks are designed with you in mind, and hopefully, these innovations will make your life considerably easier.

Just remember to avoid overfilling, tow slowly, and give the tanks a thorough clean at the end of your RV vacation.