Setting Up a Camping Toilet in Your Awning — Layout Tips

An awning is one of the most versatile spaces in a camping setup, and with a bit of planning it can comfortably accommodate a portable toilet without compromising your living area. The key is thoughtful positioning, privacy solutions and a few practical measures to keep the space hygienic and pleasant. Here is how to get it right for summer 2026.

Choosing the Right Spot

Most full-size caravan and motorhome awnings have enough depth to designate one corner for a toilet. The ideal spot meets these criteria:

• Away from the sleeping and eating areas: the far end of the awning, as distant from the kitchen and beds as possible.
• Near a wall or panel: placing the toilet against the awning side wall means you only need to screen the front and one side for privacy.
• On stable, level ground: a toilet on uneven ground is uncomfortable and risks tipping. Level the area with a groundsheet or small board if necessary.
• Near a ventilation point: an awning window, mesh panel or door nearby allows airflow that helps manage any residual odour.

Privacy Solutions Inside the Awning

Unless your awning has a dedicated inner compartment, you will need a privacy screen. There are several approaches:

Pop-Up Inner Tent or Toilet Cubicle

Some awning manufacturers produce inner compartments that fit inside the awning and create a separate enclosed space. These are ideal but model-specific. Alternatively, a compact pop-up toilet tent from Kampa or a similar brand can be placed inside the awning to create an instant cubicle.

Curtain or Screen

A simple curtain suspended from a pole or wire across the awning corner is the lightest and cheapest solution. Use opaque fabric that is easy to wipe clean. Attach it with hooks or clips so it can be drawn back when the toilet is not in use, opening up the full awning space.

Folding Screen

A lightweight folding screen — the type sold for room dividers — can section off a corner effectively. It is freestanding, requires no installation and folds flat for transport.

Protecting the Awning Floor

Place a waterproof mat or tray under the toilet. This protects the awning groundsheet from any minor spills or condensation and makes cleaning easier. A rubber-backed bath mat works well and provides a non-slip surface. For belt-and-braces protection, a plastic tray from a DIY store catches anything that a mat would miss.

Ventilation Is Critical

An awning is a semi-enclosed space, and without airflow, even a well-maintained toilet can create a noticeable background odour. Keep the following in mind:

1. Open the nearest awning window or vent panel when the toilet is in use.
2. After use, leave the privacy screen or curtain partially open to allow air circulation.
3. Ensure the blade valve on your Thetford Porta Potti, Dometic or Blue Diamond toilet is fully closed — this is the primary odour barrier.
4. Use the correct dose of waste-tank chemical and add pink rinse to the flush tank to keep the bowl clean.

Night-Time Considerations

One of the main reasons for having a toilet in the awning is night-time convenience. Ensure the path from the sleeping area to the toilet corner is clear of obstacles. A small battery-powered LED light on a clip — attached to the curtain pole or awning frame — provides enough visibility without disturbing everyone. Red-light modes are even less disruptive.

Recommended Toilet Models for Awning Use

• Thetford Porta Potti 345 or 365: compact footprint, piston flush, effective seal. The 365's larger tank is better if the toilet will see regular use by the whole family.
• Dometic 972: slightly more compact for smaller awnings where every centimetre matters.
• Blue Diamond Portable Toilet: a budget option that works well in awnings where space is less constrained.

Keeping the Awning Fresh

Beyond the toilet itself, a few habits keep the entire awning pleasant:

• Wipe the toilet seat and rim daily with antibacterial wipes.
• Empty the waste tank before it reaches 75 per cent capacity.
• Store chemicals, gloves and cleaning supplies in a sealed box — not loose on the awning floor.
• Air the awning fully each morning by opening all panels and doors.

Find portable toilets, privacy solutions and accessories for your awning setup at UK Camping and Leisure — everything you need for a comfortable summer 2026 layout.