The best portable waste tanks for RVs are the Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank for most RVers, the Barker 4-Wheeler 42-Gallon when you want one trip to empty a full holding tank, and the Barker Tote-Along 22-Gallon if you want the shortest distance between camp and the dump station. All three roll on their own wheels and all three let you empty your RV without moving the rig.
That matters more than most roundups admit. Water weighs roughly 8.3 pounds per gallon, so 36 gallons of waste in a tote adds close to 300 pounds to whatever the tank weighs empty. The number decides whether you can pull it across gravel alone or whether you need a second pair of hands.
We spent 2026‘s season reading owner reports and manufacturer specs across ten of the most-reviewed portable waste tanks on the market, then weighed the numbers that actually decide a purchase: capacity, empty weight, wheel layout, valve style, gauge quality and what comes in the kit. Nothing here is based on listing copy alone.
A portable waste tank is also called a tote tank or a portable septic tank, and all three names describe the same object. A sewer hose runs from your RV’s drain valve to the tote’s inlet valve, the tank fills on wheels, and a second valve empties it at a dump station without lifting. We cover how the process works, how to size a tank to your household, and who should skip one entirely.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Best Portable Waste Tanks for RVs in 2026
- All 10 Portable Waste Tanks Compared (October 2026)
- 1. Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank (39006) — Best Overall
- 2. Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank, 42 Gallon (30844) — Best for Big Families
- 3. Barker Tote-Along Tank, 22 Gallon (11104) — Best Value
- 4. Thetford SmartTote2 Portable Waste Tote Tank, 35 Gallon (40503)
- 5. Thetford SmartTote2 Portable Waste Tote Tank, 12 Gallon (40505)
- 6. VINGLI 10-Gallon Tote Tank for Fresh, Grey or Black Water
- 7. Thetford Smart Portable Waste Tote Tank with 4 Wheels, 18 Gallon (40510)
- 8. RecPro RV Portable Waste Tank, 36 Gallon, No-Flat Tires
- 9. Barker 11747 Tote Tank, 15 Gallon Capacity
- 10. Venustank 30-Gallon 2-Wheel RV Portable Waste Tank
- How to Choose a Portable Waste Tank
- Storage, Mounting and Dump-Station Logistics
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best portable waste tank for an RV?
- How do I know when my portable waste tank is full?
- Should I buy a 4-wheel or 2-wheel portable waste tank?
- How often should I empty a portable RV waste tank?
- Can a portable waste tank be used for grey water?
- Where do I store a portable waste tank in my RV?
- How much does a full portable waste tank weigh?
- Our Verdict on Portable Waste Tanks for RVs in 2026
Top 3 Best Portable Waste Tanks for RVs in 2026
Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote
- 36 gallon capacity
- 45 lb empty
- No-flat wheels and steel tow adapter
- Tank rinser and ladder hook included
Barker 4-Wheeler 42-Gallon
- 42 gallon capacity
- 47 lb empty
- Front double swivel wheels
- 3-inch waste valve for side discharge
Barker Tote-Along 22-Gallon
- 22 gallon capacity
- 19.23 lb empty
- Tow bracket and 5 foot hose included
- Zinc-plated steel brackets throughout
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All 10 Portable Waste Tanks Compared (October 2026)
The table below covers every tank in this roundup, sorted by how much capacity each one carries. Every row includes the empty weight from the manufacturer listing so you can add the water on top and know what you will actually be moving.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank
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Check Latest Price |
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Barker 4-Wheeler 42-Gallon
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Check Latest Price |
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Barker Tote-Along 22-Gallon
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Check Latest Price |
Thetford SmartTote2 35-Gallon
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Check Latest Price |
Thetford SmartTote2 12-Gallon
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Check Latest Price |
VINGLI 10-Gallon Tote Tank
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Check Latest Price |
Thetford Smart Portable 18-Gallon
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Check Latest Price |
RecPro 36-Gallon Waste Tank
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Check Latest Price |
Barker 11747 15-Gallon Tote
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Check Latest Price |
Venustank 30-Gallon 2-Wheel Tote
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Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank (39006) — Best Overall
Camco Rhino 36-Gallon RV Tote Tank, (39006)
- 36 gal capacity
- 45 lb empty
- UV-stabilized HDPE
- 43.38 L x 43.38 W x 25.3 H
Pros
- No-flat wheels and an oversized handle for pulling a full tank
- UV-stabilized blow-molded HDPE that survives multiple winters
- Removable steel tow adapter for a truck or golf cart
- Tank rinser and ladder hook included
- 2-year limited warranty
Cons
- Ribbed handle digs into the hand when pulling a full tank
- Bulky 43 inch footprint demands real storage space
- Two-wheel version has no front swivel casters
The Rhino is the tank most owners compare everything else against, and at 27k reviews it has the largest owner base in this category by a wide margin. We picked it as the best overall because the wheel and hardware complaints that sink cheaper totes simply are not present here, and the accessory kit is genuinely complete.
Everything needed to go from a full RV black tank to an empty tote is in the box: two oversized wheels, a large handle, a tank rinser, a ladder hook and a gate valve. That gate valve is the piece most people underrate, because it gives you a controlled, low-spillage discharge instead of a full-tip dump.
The body is UV-stabilized blow-molded HDPE, and owners report it holding up over multiple winters without cracking or weeping at the seams. At 45 pounds empty, a full Rhino carries roughly 344 pounds of total load, which is the single most important number in this roundup.
What we noticed while reading owner reports is how consistently people mention the no-flat tires working over gravel and rutted campground roads. A member of a Facebook RV camping group singled out Camco for durable wheels and handles, which matches what the reviews here say. Facebook RV Hacking Camping Ideas members give Camco and Valterra similar marks for hardware that survives real use rather than a season of showroom rolling.
What you get right with a full Rhino
Pulling a loaded tote over uneven ground is the whole game, and the no-flat wheels plus oversized handle are the reason this tank ranks first. The removable steel tow adapter also lets you hook it behind a truck or a golf cart instead of wrestling it yourself, which matters when you are solo on BLM land.
The 36-gallon capacity covers most weekend trips without a second trip to the dump station, and the ladder hook gives you a home for it on the rig so it is not rolling around the storage bay.
Where the Rhino frustrates owners
The handle is the recurring gripe. Reviewers describe the orange grip as ribbed or hollow on the back side, and it can dig into your palm once the tank is near capacity. Gloves solve more of this than people expect.
Second, the 43.38 inch square footprint is not a small object. In a Class C or a travel trailer underbelly you need a dedicated bay, and in a Class B van you may not have one. If your storage is tight, read the dimensions before you commit.
2. Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank, 42 Gallon (30844) — Best for Big Families
Barker 4-Wheeler Tote Tank – 42 Gallon Capacity (30844)
- 42 gal capacity
- 47 lb empty
- Blow-molded polyethylene
- 14 x 24 x 45 inches
Pros
- Front double swivel wheels pull easily when fully loaded
- 3-inch waste valve empties by side discharge without lifting
- Combo vent and rinse connection simplifies flushing
- Removable metal handle lays flat for storage
- Zinc-plated steel and aluminum hardware
Cons
- Supplied pneumatic tires can crack after relatively few uses
- Slotted retaining caps make tire replacement awkward
- Handle loop can pop off the hitch ball over bumps
If your RV has a 40-plus gallon black tank and you would rather empty it in a single pass, this is the tote to look at. At 42 gallons it is the largest capacity here, and the 3-inch conventional waste valve on the side means you never have to lift a loaded tank to dump it.
Construction is blow-molded polyethylene with zinc-plated steel and aluminum hardware, a combination that has been building totes for decades. The front-mounted double swivel wheel assembly sits on an extra large mounting plate, and owners consistently report it rolls quietly and smoothly even when loaded.
One Forest River Forums thread contains a long-running report from a Thetford owner with zero problems, and the sentiment around Barker hardware is similar: the tank body outlasts the tires. A fully loaded 42-gallon Barker runs about 396 pounds, so plan your path home before you open the valve.
There is also a combo vent and rinse connection, which is the single feature that makes post-dump cleaning fast. Hook a garden hose to the vent, run water through the tank, and the trapped solids rinse out without wrestling with a stuck cap.
Why families keep this one
The math is the argument. A 42-gallon tote matches a 42-gallon RV black tank, so one dump trip empties the whole rig. Families of four or five travelling for a week can carry a full week of waste in a single container rather than rationing showers and toilet use.
The bayonet lugs on the inlet and the standard RV-style outlet also mean a standard sewer hose connects with no improvised fittings and no mess. That is not a small convenience when you are doing it after dark.
What to watch before you buy
The supplied pneumatic tires are the weak point. Reviewers report cracking after relatively few uses, and the slotted retaining caps make replacement more awkward than it should be. Budget for a tire swap or check the condition before a long trip.
Second, check your dump port height against the 45-inch tank height, which is the tallest in this roundup. A low bay door or a short pipe will not clear it, and the handle loop can pop off a hitch ball over bumps unless you add a strap.
3. Barker Tote-Along Tank, 22 Gallon (11104) — Best Value
BARKER 11104 Tote-Along Tank – 22 Gallon, Blue
- 22 gal capacity
- 19.23 lb empty
- Blow-molded polyethylene
- 37 L x 20 W x 11 H inches
Pros
- Tow bracket and 5 foot sewer hose included in the box
- Zinc-plated steel brackets throughout
- Easy to lift when empty at 19.23 lb
- Saves roughly two hours per dump by staying in camp
Cons
- Plastic wheel bearing assemblies can separate after a few uses
- Single handle side makes truck loading awkward
- 5 foot hose is short for reaching a distant dump station
The Tote-Along is the value pick here, and the reason is simple: the accessories you would otherwise chase down are in the box. You get a heavy-gauge steel tow bracket, a 5-foot sewer hose, standard bayonet fittings and extra large heavy-duty wheels, so it is usable the day it arrives.
Owners describe it as good value and well made, and the 4.5 rating across more than 1600 reviews backs that up. At 22 gallons and 19.23 pounds empty, it is light enough to lift into a truck bed when empty and small enough to wedge into most storage bays.
Its straight-forward fluid height is more useful than it sounds, because you can see how close you are to the top without a sensor. A 22-gallon load adds about 183 pounds, giving a total around 202 pounds, which most adults can manage across a flat campground without a fight.
Several owners report saving close to two hours per dump by not tearing down camp to move the RV. That is the real return on a tote tank, and it arrives faster with a smaller tank you can actually move.
Where the Tote-Along earns its slot
Included accessories are the difference between a tank and a working system. A tow bracket and hose means no extra shopping, no adapter hunting at the dump station and no surprise expense before your first boondock.
The 22-gallon size also fits the most common weekend pattern: two adults, a few days out, one dump run. You cover the gap between hookups without hauling a tank heavy enough to strain your back.
What owners upgrade first
The wheel hardware is the known weak spot. Reviewers describe plastic hub and bearing assemblies that can separate after a few uses, and retaining nuts and end caps that work loose over bumps. Upgrading to cart tires with cotter pins is a common fix.
Loading is also one-sided. With the handle on a single side, getting it into a truck bed takes a little shuffling, and the 5-foot hose is short when the dump station sits across a parking lot.
4. Thetford SmartTote2 Portable Waste Tote Tank, 35 Gallon (40503)
SmartTote2 Thetford RV Portable Waste Tote Tank – 2 Wheels – 35 Gallon -Thetford 40503
- 35 gal capacity
- 21.6 lb empty
- Polypropylene body
- 2 rubber wheels
Pros
- AutoStop level gauge prevents overfilling and speeds draining
- Retainer strap secures the heavy-duty sewer hose in transit
- Complete kit with every component needed to empty a holding tank
- Tow strap option attaches to a vehicle hitch
Cons
- Lowest rated tank in the lineup at 4.2 with 9% one-star reviews
- Polypropylene body is less rigid than heavy-gauge HDPE rivals
- Only two wheels
- so a full tank steers harder
The SmartTote2 35-gallon is defined by its AutoStop level gauge, and in our view that is the most under-rated feature in the category. It shuts the fill off before you overfill, which removes the single biggest source of mess at a dump station.
It arrives as a complete kit with all components needed to empty RV waste holding tanks, plus a retainer strap that holds the heavy-duty sewer hose in place during travel. The 35-gallon capacity is generous for the size, and a full load plus the 21.6-pound empty weight comes to roughly 312 pounds.
A long-running Forest River Forums thread includes a 35-gallon SmartTote 2 owner with two rear wheels reporting zero problems, which is the kind of multi-season report we trust more than a first impression. The built-in handle and two rubber wheels also make the walk to the dump station straightforward.
The hitch attachment option lets you tow the tote behind your vehicle, so you are not carrying 300 pounds across uneven ground. On a dispersed site that is the difference between a five-minute job and a fifteen-minute one.
Why the gauge is worth paying for
Overfilling a tote is how you end up with waste on the ground at a dump station, which is exactly the situation that makes other campers angry. The AutoStop gauge prevents overfilling and also accelerates emptying because you can see the tank draining.
That matters for beginners. Owners new to tote tanks consistently name fill control, not capacity, as the hardest part of the process, and a gauge removes the guesswork entirely.
Where it falls behind the HDPE tanks
At 4.2 with 9% one-star reviews, this is the lowest-rated tank we include, and the small review pool of 552 gives you less long-term data than the Camco and Barker models. The polypropylene body is also less rigid than heavy-gauge HDPE.
Two wheels means you support some of that 312-pound load while pulling it. On flat, hard surfaces that is fine. On gravel after rain, budget extra time or ask for help.
5. Thetford SmartTote2 Portable Waste Tote Tank, 12 Gallon (40505)
SmartTote2 Portable RV Waste Tote Tank – 2 Wheels – 12 Gallon – Thetford 40505
- 12 gal capacity
- 4.79 kg empty
- Polypropylene
- 18.5 L x 10.5 W x 10 H inches
Pros
- Light and compact enough to lift into a truck bed by hand even when filled
- Low profile inlet suits trailers with low dump valves
- Comes fully assembled with caps for hose opening and vent
- Stores neatly under a camper
Cons
- Does not include a sewer hose
- No overfill indicator
- so filling needs care and a dipstick
- 12 gallons means many more trips to the dump station
This is the tote for a small trailer, a pop-top or a Class B van where weight and clearance beat capacity. At 12 gallons and roughly 10.6 pounds empty, a full tank still lifts comfortably by one person, which no other tank in this roundup can promise.
The low-profile inlet is the quiet advantage. It suits trailers whose dump valves sit close to the ground, and several reviewers bought it specifically for that reason after a taller model failed to line up with their outlet.
It comes fully assembled with caps for the hose opening and the vent, so there is no installation step. A full 12-gallon load adds about 100 pounds, keeping the total near 110 pounds, and the slim body stores neatly under a camper when not in use.
Owners also report that it seals well with standard sewer hose fittings and has not leaked for most of them, which matters more than it sounds on a small frame where every fitting is visible.
When a small tank is the right call
Solo travellers, couples and anyone with limited lifting ability should look here first. The weight math is the whole argument: 110 pounds full is a two-person-lift-free job, and that changes how often you will actually use the tank.
Storage is the other win. A small RV still has to park the tank somewhere, and a body that tucks under a camper or into a rear cabinet solves a problem that stops bigger totes from being bought at all.
What you give up for the weight
No sewer hose is included, and a fair number of buyers describe that as misleading. Budget for a hose and fittings before your first trip, or you will be standing at your RV wondering what is missing.
There is also no overfill indicator on this model, so you fill with care and often use a dipstick workaround. And 12 gallons turns a 30-gallon RV black tank into three trips, which erodes the convenience you bought the tote for.
6. VINGLI 10-Gallon Tote Tank for Fresh, Grey or Black Water
VINGLI 10 Gallon Tote Tank| Portable Wheeled Fresh Water Tank for Camping/Picnic/Camper/RV, Food Grade Safety & Lightweight & Durable
- 10.6 gal capacity
- 9.3 lb empty
- HDPE body
- 14.76 L x 9.06 W x 31.5 H inches
Pros
- Lightest usable tote here at 9.3 lb empty
- Integrated handles and two large wheels
- Slim profile takes less storage space than larger totes
- Large diameter outlet fills and drains quickly
Cons
- No 3/4 inch standard hose connection
- so adapters must be fabricated
- Cap gaskets are inconsistent and plastic threads can strip
- Some owners report a leak at the vent tube
- 1 year warranty
The VINGLI is the cheapest way into portable waste handling, and for grey water work or light weekend use it does the job at 9.3 pounds empty. You can lift it one-handed, roll it on two large wheels and store it in a corner most RVers have.
Construction is plastic #2 HDPE rated food grade, so the same tank can carry clean water for a picnic or fish tank as well as waste. Owners describe it as good value and a workable budget tote for emptying away from hookups.
The large diameter outlet fills and drains quickly, and integrated storage compartments hold the hose and faucet accessories so the kit stays together. A full 10.6-gallon load adds about 88 pounds, so you are rolling roughly 97 pounds rather than wrestling 300.
It fits a pickup bed well and moves easily on short distances, which makes it a good secondary tank to keep at the campground for a grey water run rather than your main black water solution.
Where a budget tote makes sense
If you camp at full-hookup sites most nights and only need a grey water option occasionally, spending little here is rational. The light weight means you will actually use it rather than leaving it in the bay because it is too much trouble.
It is also the easiest tank to stow. The slim profile takes noticeably less space than the Barker and Camco bodies, and integrated handles mean no separate handle to lose.
What you accept for the low cost
The fittings are the honest drawback. There is no 3/4-inch standard hose connection, so adapters have to be fabricated before this tank will work with your RV. Budget time and a trip to a hardware store.
Some caps include a gasket and others do not, plastic threads can strip if over-tightened, and a few owners report a leak at the vent tube. Hot water cannot be used in the tank, and the warranty runs one year.
7. Thetford Smart Portable Waste Tote Tank with 4 Wheels, 18 Gallon (40510)
Thetford (40510) Smart Portable Waste Tote Tank with 4 Wheels – 18 Gallon Capacity
- 18 gal capacity
- 4 wheel platform
- Self-storing sewer hose
- AutoStop fill shutoff
Pros
- Completely self-contained
- so no extra accessories are needed
- Patented hose handling keeps the sewer hose attached at the tank bottom
- Four wheels let you roll a loaded tank instead of lifting it
- AutoStop shutoff prevents spills and overfilling
Cons
- Tilt-out plastic access means the tank cannot be fully drained without tilting
- 18 gallons requires multiple trips for a larger holding tank
- 12% of ratings sit at three stars
The Smart Portable is built around a single idea: nothing else to buy. The sewer hose stores inside the tank and stays connected at the bottom, so there is no separate hose to lose, no clamps to track and no kit to assemble in a parking lot.
Add four wheels and the AutoStop fill shutoff, and you have a tote that rolls when loaded and stops itself before it spills. That combination is why owners are willing to pay more for it than for similar-capacity competitors.
At 18 gallons, this is a capacity-and-convenience pick rather than a range pick. A full tank is light enough to roll easily on four wheels, and the tilt-out access keeps the body narrow for storage, which is a genuine advantage in a Class C.
Owners consistently cite the self-storing hose and the AutoStop shutoff as the reason to choose it, and ratings hold at 4.4 even though the review base of 195 is thinner than the bigger models.
Who benefits most from a self-contained tote
Anyone who camps where gear gets left out, or who has lost a hose cap into a lake, will value the self-storing design more than raw capacity. The hose is always there, always connected and always clean.
Four wheels also change the handling math. Owners on the Jayco Owners Forum broadly agree that four-wheeled models are far easier to manoeuvre than two-wheeled styles because you do not have to support the weight while pulling.
Where the convenience stops
The tilt-out plastic access means the tank cannot be fully drained without tilting it, and 12% of ratings sit at three stars, so the convenience features are not flawless. Expect to tip it to catch the last of the contents.
Eighteen gallons also means multiple trips for anything larger than a compact holding tank. If your RV has a 30-gallon black tank, this is a supplement, not a replacement.
8. RecPro RV Portable Waste Tank, 36 Gallon, No-Flat Tires
RecPro RV Portable Waste Tank | 36 Gallon | Blue | No-Flat Tires
- 36 gal capacity
- 54.9 lb empty
- Polypropylene body
- 44.5 x 24.75 x 15 inches
Pros
- Non-pneumatic tires eliminate flats on rough campground roads
- Large access ports speed up filling and emptying
- Pre-assembled
- so setup takes minutes
- Bright blue body is easy to spot at a crowded site
Cons
- Lowest rated tank here at 4.1 with 13% one-star reviews
- Heaviest listed empty weight in the roundup at 54.9 lb
- Solid tires are harsh to roll on pavement
The RecPro 36-gallon is the tank to buy if your route to the dump station crosses gravel, washboard or anything with a sharp edge in it. Non-pneumatic tires with a diamond-pattern tread remove the flat-tire problem entirely, which is a real failure mode on remote roads.
It is pre-assembled, so you attach the hose, open the valve and go. Large access ports make both filling and emptying faster, and the bright blue body is genuinely easier to find in a crowded campsite than grey or black tanks.
At 54.9 pounds empty, this is the heaviest listed weight in the roundup, and a full 36-gallon load pushes the total to about 354 pounds. That number is the reason we would not put this tank at the top of the list for most RVers, and it is worth planning around.
Members of a Facebook RV camping group recommend RecPro alongside Camco and Valterra specifically for durability, and the tire design backs that up. The softer criticism is rolling feel rather than reliability.
When solid tires win
Flat tires end trips. On a dispersed site or a long gravel approach to a dump station, a pneumatic tire failure means loading the tank onto a spare, or abandoning the run. The RecPro removes that scenario, which is why it earns its place despite the weight.
It is also one of the newer listings in this group, so the 116-review pool gives you less multi-season evidence than the Barker and Camco tanks carry.
What the rating spread tells you
At 4.1 with 13% one-star reviews, this is the lowest-rated tank here, and the sources of dissatisfaction are consistent: total weight and the rigidity of solid tires on pavement. Hard surfaces are noticeably harsher to roll.
Two wheels also mean a fully loaded tank still takes real effort to maneuver, and with 354 pounds total you will feel that effort on every trip to the station.
9. Barker 11747 Tote Tank, 15 Gallon Capacity
Barker 11747 Tote Tank – 15 Gallon Capacity
- 15 gal capacity
- 16 lb empty
- Blow-molded polyethylene
- 37 x 15 x 11.25 inches
Pros
- Light enough to lift by hand when empty while holding a useful load
- Thick HDPE walls and a heavy-gauge steel tow bracket
- 5 foot sewer hose and tow bracket included
- Clear fluid height makes overfilling easy to avoid
Cons
- Wheel bearing assemblies can come apart after a few uses
- Nearly impossible to fully empty when stood on end
- 15 gallons means many trips for larger holding tanks
The Barker 11747 is the small-tank answer for weekend campers who want a real steel tow bracket and a real hose without paying for 40 gallons they will never fill. It shares its review pool with the other Barker totes, and the feedback is consistently favorable on construction and value.
At 16 pounds empty with 15 gallons of capacity, a full tank comes to roughly 140 pounds. That is a genuinely liftable load, and it is the number that separates this from the 42-gallon model.
The clear fluid height gives you a visual overfill check without a sensor, and the compact 37 by 15 by 11.25 inch body stores easily at a campsite. The tow bracket lets you drag it behind a vehicle rather than carry it.
Owners like the thick HDPE walls and the zinc-plated steel brackets, which is the same hardware language as the larger Barker totes. You get the same steel at a smaller scale.
When 15 gallons is genuinely enough
Two adults on a three or four day trip generate roughly 15 gallons of black water, so this tank covers a typical weekend in one run. Full-time RVers on long stretches between hookups will outgrow it quickly, but for weekend use the match is close to exact.
The 16-pound empty weight also means you can lift it into a truck bed unaided, which removes the single biggest obstacle for solo campers buying their first tote.
The draining problem to know about
The outlet sits above the tank interior when the tote is stood on its end, so it is nearly impossible to completely empty. A residual inch of liquid stays behind until you lay the tank flat, and that is where odour problems start.
Wheel hardware is the other recurring note: plastic bearing assemblies can come apart and retaining hardware can loosen over bumps. Many owners swap in cart tires and cotter pins as a first modification.
10. Venustank 30-Gallon 2-Wheel RV Portable Waste Tank
Venustank 30 Gallon RV Portable Waste Tank 2 Wheel Tote Tank
- 30 gal capacity
- 57.5 lb empty
- Blow-molded HDPE
- 43.5 L x 25.5 W x 17 H inches
Pros
- Highest rated tank here at 4.7 with 82% five-star reviews
- Complete kit with hose
- bayonet fittings
- rinse adapters
- elbows
- caps and tow bar
- 22 inch tow bar rolls it like a suitcase or tows it behind a truck
- Integrated ladder hook secures it to the RV when not in use
Cons
- Heaviest empty weight in the group at 57.5 lb
- Only two wheels
- so maneuverability depends on the tow bar
- Some assembly required before first use
The Venustank 30-gallon has the most complete accessory kit in the roundup by a wide margin, and it pairs that with the highest average rating we found. The box contains the tank, a 3-foot sewer hose, a hose with swivel bayonet and lug fittings, two 31-inch rinse adapters, a clear elbow with a 4-in-1 adapter, a clear double bayonet elbow, three storage caps, two rinse-connection caps with lanyards and a 22-inch tow bar.
That is a lot of hardware, and it is the reason the rating lands where it does. Buyers single out kit completeness and the tow bar and ladder hook system rather than any single tank feature.
The blow-molded HDPE body is described as leak-free, sun-resistant and durable, and the smooth interior rinses clean. Gate valves make emptying easier than a full-tip dump, and large solid-rubber rear wheels handle campground surfaces without flats.
The integrated ladder hook clamps the tank to an RV or camper ladder when it is not in use, which solves the storage problem that stops people from buying a tote at all. It carries a 1-year manufacturer warranty and needs some assembly before first use.
What the tow bar changes
A 22-inch tow bar turns a two-wheel tank into something you roll like a suitcase, or attach behind a truck or golf cart. Across rough ground that is the difference between a one-handed job and a two-person lift, and it is the feature that makes 30 gallons manageable.
The ladder hook is the other quiet win. Once you know where it lives on the rig, the tank stops competing with your chairs and hoses for floor space in the storage bay.
Where caution is warranted
At 57.5 pounds empty, this is the heaviest empty weight in the group, and a full 30-gallon tank approaches 306 pounds. With only two wheels, the tow bar is doing real work in how you move it, not just as a convenience.
The 57-review pool is the smallest here, so long-term multi-season durability data is limited compared with the established Barker and Camco models. Newer listings deserve a longer watching period before you commit a family trip to them.
How to Choose a Portable Waste Tank
Sizing is the first decision, and household size is the cleanest proxy. Buy a tank that comfortably exceeds your RV’s own black tank capacity, because a tote that matches your holding tank means a single dump trip empties the whole rig.
1 to 2 travellers: 10 to 15 gallons covers most weekend trips in one run.
2 to 3 travellers: 18 to 22 gallons is the sweet spot for a week away from a hookup.
3 to 4 travellers: 27 to 30 gallons reduces the number of dump runs to a minimum.
5 or more travellers, or full-time RV living: 35 to 42 gallons matches or exceeds a large holding tank.
Full-time RVers on BLM and dispersed land should size up rather than down. You want enough capacity that you can camp for a week without a second trip, and the tow bar or four-wheel setup matters more than an extra five gallons.
The weight number nobody publishes
Water weighs about 8.3 pounds per gallon. Add that to the empty weight of the tank and you have the real load. A 36-gallon tote such as the Camco Rhino carries 45 pounds empty and about 299 pounds of water, so plan for roughly 344 pounds on the move. A 42-gallon Barker lands near 396 pounds. This is the number that decides whether you can handle a tank alone, and it is more informative than any capacity claim.
Owner forums converge on one conclusion: four-wheeled models are much easier to manoeuvre than two-wheeled styles, because you do not have to support the load while pulling. Add that to the raw math and the decision is simple. Choose four wheels if you camp on gravel, sand, dirt or grass, or if more than one person will be handling the tank. Choose two wheels only for paved, level sites or for small tanks you can lift comfortably.
Material, valves and gauges
UV-stabilized HDPE and blow-molded polyethylene are the two materials worth paying for, and both tolerate multiple winters outdoors. Polypropylene is lighter and less rigid, which is a reasonable trade in a small tote and a poor one in a 35-gallon unit. Zinc-plated steel brackets and aluminum hardware mark the better-built tanks.
A 3-inch conventional waste valve on the side lets you discharge without lifting, which is the safest emptying method available. Gate valves give more control and less spillage. For filling, a level gauge such as the AutoStop system or a clear fluid window prevents the overfill that causes most dump-station messes.
Grey water and black water can share the same tote in most situations, and several tanks here are rated for both. Wash the tank thoroughly between uses, since a tank that has held black water and then gets used for grey water is an odour problem waiting to happen.
Storage, Mounting and Dump-Station Logistics
Where you store the tank matters as much as which one you buy. Measure the bay first, then check the tank’s listed dimensions against your clearance, because a 43-inch square body does not fit where you think it will.
Three mounting approaches cover most rigs. A ladder hook clamps the tank to the RV or camper ladder, and both the Camco Rhino and the Venustank 30-gallon include one. A bumper rack keeps the tote flat and low, but be aware that fit is never guaranteed with OEM racks, as one RV camping group post reported a supplied bracket failing because the bumper sat nearly flush with the tank. A tow bar is the third option, and it doubles as a way to move the tank once it is full.
Travel trailers and fifth wheels with pass-through storage bays are the easiest homes for a tote. Class C motorhomes usually have a bay under the bed. Class B vans are the hardest, and a slim 10 or 12-gallon model is often the only realistic answer.
Who should skip a tote tank entirely? If you camp exclusively at full-hookup sites and never more than a few hundred feet from a sewer connection, a tote adds weight, storage problems and a cleaning routine without solving anything. It pays off the moment you plan a night on BLM land, a dispersed site or a campground with a long dump queue.
On dump-station etiquette, pull in, position your tank, and get out of the bay quickly. Most stations charge a per-dump fee that varies widely by region, and the queue you are avoiding is exactly the queue you create if you linger. Rinse before you leave, not at home, and never pour tank contents onto open ground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best portable waste tank for an RV?
The Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank is the best overall pick for most RVers. It pairs UV-stabilized HDPE construction with no-flat tires, an oversized handle and a removable steel tow adapter, and it includes a tank rinser, ladder hook and gate valve. The Barker 4-Wheeler 42-Gallon empties a full holding tank in one trip, and the Barker Tote-Along 22-Gallon is the value option.
How do I know when my portable waste tank is full?
Three methods work. A level gauge such as the AutoStop system on the Thetford SmartTote2 shuts the fill off automatically. Tanks with a clear fluid window or a visible fluid height let you check the level without a sensor. Without either, fill slowly and stop well short of the top, then confirm with a dipstick before driving to the dump station.
Should I buy a 4-wheel or 2-wheel portable waste tank?
Choose four wheels if you camp on gravel, sand, dirt or grass, or if a full tank is too heavy to support while pulling. Water weighs about 8.3 pounds per gallon, so a 36-gallon tank approaches 300 pounds before the tank weight is added. Owner consensus on RV forums is that four-wheeled models are much easier to manoeuvre for exactly this reason.
How often should I empty a portable RV waste tank?
Empty before it is full rather than when it is full. Most owners get three to seven days of use out of a 20 to 30-gallon tank with two adults, and considerably less with a family. Dumping at three-quarters full keeps the weight manageable, reduces spillage at the bay and leaves room for the tank to be rinsed before you stow it.
Can a portable waste tank be used for grey water?
Yes. Most totes in this category, including the VINGLI and the Thetford Smart Portable, handle grey water as well as black water. Use a tank that has held black water for grey water only after a thorough rinse, and empty it the same day. Grey water carries soaps and food particles that leave a residue and odour if they sit.
Where do I store a portable waste tank in my RV?
A ladder hook is the simplest option and is included with the Camco Rhino and the Venustank 30-gallon. A bumper rack keeps the tank flat, though fit with OEM racks is not guaranteed. Pass-through bays in a fifth wheel and bays under the bed in a Class C handle most mid-size totes. Measure your bay against the listed dimensions first.
How much does a full portable waste tank weigh?
Water weighs roughly 8.3 pounds per gallon. A 36-gallon tank adds about 299 pounds of water, and the Camco Rhino at 45 pounds empty comes to roughly 344 pounds full. A 42-gallon Barker 4-Wheeler approaches 396 pounds. This math matters more than capacity when you decide whether you can move the tank solo.
Our Verdict on Portable Waste Tanks for RVs in 2026
The Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank is the best portable waste tank for RVs in 2026 for the simple reason that few owners report replacing its wheels, handle or hardware. If you need one dump trip to empty a large holding tank, the Barker 4-Wheeler 42-Gallon does the job with side-discharge valves and the best wheel package here. For a lighter wallet, the Barker Tote-Along 22-Gallon includes a hose and tow bracket, and the VINGLI 10-Gallon covers grey water and small rigs on a tight budget.
Check your storage dimensions before you order, decide between two and four wheels based on the ground you actually camp on, and do the 8.3-pounds-per-gallon math before you promise yourself you will be pulling it solo. That single calculation prevents most regret in this category.