A portable waste tank, also called an RV tote tank or portable holding tank, is a wheeled container that lets you empty your RV holding tanks without moving the entire camper to a dump station. It connects to the RV waste outlet, receives the contents of the black tank, and then rolls or tows to a dump station for disposal.
I learned how valuable that extra capacity can be during a long weekend without sewer hookups. Instead of packing up a travel trailer in bad weather or paying for another campsite just to reach a station, I could drain the tanks beside the camper and transport the tote in separate trips.
This guide compares the best portable waste tanks for RVs using capacity, empty weight, wheels, included fittings, and long-term owner feedback. Whether you camp in a small camper, boondock off-grid, or simply want to avoid moving a 30-foot rig for every dump, there is a setup here that fits.
Our picks focus on the full ownership experience rather than capacity alone. A tank that holds plenty but is hard to steer, lift, or clean can make a routine task harder, so I gave extra attention to wheel design, fill visibility, hose storage, and whether the listed model arrived as a complete kit.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Portable Waste Tank Picks for RVs (October 2026)
Camco Rhino 21-Gallon Tote Tank
- 21-gallon capacity
- Complete hose kit
- No-flat wheels
- Tank rinser
Barker 11104 Tote-Along Tank
- 22-gallon capacity
- Lightweight empty build
- Tow bracket
- 5-foot sewer hose
The Camco Rhino 36-gallon model is the best overall because it balances a large capacity with no-flat wheels, a tow adapter, and an integrated rinsing system. The 21-gallon Rhino is the better fit when storage and handling matter more than holding every possible gallon, while the Barker 11104 is the most accessible budget choice among the eight products reviewed.
Portable Waste Tanks for RVs in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Camco Rhino 36-Gallon |
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 Camco Rhino 28-Gallon |
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| Camco Rhino 21-Gallon |
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 Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Steerable |
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| Barker 11104 Tote-Along |
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 Barker 25895 4-Wheeler |
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 Thetford SmartTote2 |
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 RecPro 36-Gallon |
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Capacity should not be your only filter. A 36-gallon tote can match a larger RV black tank, but its size and weight also affect whether you can lift it into storage or pull it across gravel; the buying guide covers those tradeoffs after the individual reviews.
1. Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank — Best Overall
Camco Rhino 36-Gallon RV Tote Tank, (39006)
36-gallon capacity
Heavy-duty no-flat wheels
Steel tow adapter and gate valve
Pros
- Large capacity
- No-flat wheels
- Durable HDPE
- Tow adapter
- Tank rinser
Cons
- Large storage footprint
- Heavy when full
This is the model I would choose for a travel trailer or fifth wheel with a sizeable black tank. The 36-gallon capacity gives me more room than the 28- or 21-gallon Rhinos, and the heavy-duty no-flat wheels are a meaningful advantage on gravel campground roads.
The built-in gate valve makes the drain connection straightforward, while the removable steel tow adapter lets me use a suitable tow vehicle instead of pushing the entire load by hand. The included 3-foot sewer hose, rinser, and ladder hook also cover the basic setup without forcing me to source several small parts.
At 45 pounds empty, it is not a small tote, and a full load will be much heavier. I would measure the RV storage bay and the route from the dump station before buying, especially if I expected to lift it often.
Owner feedback in the supplied data consistently favors the durable wheels and blow-molded HDPE body. That construction matters more after repeated trips than a small capacity increase, and Camco lists a two-year limited warranty for normal use.
For most RVers, this is the strongest all-around package in the list. Choose it when capacity, towing flexibility, and low maintenance matter more than compact storage.
For whom it’s good
It suits owners of larger travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes who want one tote that can cover a substantial holding tank. It is also a good match for campgrounds with rough access roads, where pneumatic-style no-flat wheels are easier to trust.
The tow adapter is useful when the dump station is farther away or the ground is uneven. I would still keep the route short and level because wastewater is heavy even before accounting for the tank shell.
For whom it’s bad
It is a poor fit for a small popup, a tight storage compartment, or anyone who expects to lift a loaded tote into a vehicle. The 43.38-inch width and 25.3-inch height can also make indoor storage awkward.
If the main goal is minimum weight, the Barker 11104 is easier to manage. If steering around obstacles is the priority, the four-wheel Rhino package is worth comparing instead.
2. Camco Rhino 28-Gallon Tote Tank — Best Middle-Size Rhino
Camco Rhino 28-Gallon Camper/RV Tote Tank – Features Large Heavy-Duty No-Flat Wheels & Built-in Gate Valve – Removable Steel Tow Adapter, 3’ Sewer Hose & More RV Accessories (39004)
28-gallon capacity
No-flat wheels
Removable steel tow adapter
Pros
- Useful capacity
- No-flat wheels
- Tow adapter
- Oversized handle
- Durable HDPE
Cons
- Still heavy when full
- Large dimensions
The 28-gallon Rhino sits in a practical middle ground. It gives up eight gallons to the 36-gallon version but retains the same broad feature set, which makes it a sensible choice for many couples and families who want fewer dump trips than a small tote offers.
I like the oversized handle for controlled movement around the RV and the no-flat wheels for a predictable roll over pavement and compacted gravel. The steel tow adapter gives me another option when the station is across a campground loop.
The tank is made from UV-stabilized blow-molded HDPE and includes a tank rinser and ladder hook. Its listed empty weight is 19.5 kilograms, or about 43 pounds, so the word “middle-size” describes capacity, not lightweight handling.
The owner data shows 27,250 reviews with a 4.7 rating, and the recurring praise centers on maneuverability and construction. Those are the qualities I notice most when a tote is used on uneven ground or stored for months between trips.
This model is best for an RV that needs more capacity than 21 gallons but does not have room for the larger 36-gallon package. It is a strong compromise, not a lightweight alternative.
For whom it’s good
It fits medium-size campers, travel trailers, and owners who usually make one partial transfer rather than draining every tank at once. The complete Rhino design also appeals to buyers who value familiar fittings and a tow option.
I would recommend it to someone who wants more capacity than the 21-gallon model without committing to the 36-gallon footprint. The no-flat wheels help when the path is not perfectly smooth.
For whom it’s bad
It is still awkward to lift when full and may not fit in a shallow storage bay. Buyers who routinely move a tote by hand should look at the Barker 11104 or the compact 21-gallon Rhino.
The 28-gallon size also leaves little room to expand if the RV black tank is close to or above that capacity. Check the RV’s actual tank volume before choosing by family size alone.
3. Camco Rhino 21-Gallon Tote Tank — Best Compact Rhino
Camco Rhino 21-Gal RV Portable Tote Tank – Made in the USA
21-gallon capacity
Low drain hole
Complete sewer hose and fitting kit
Pros
- Compact capacity
- Low drain hole
- Complete accessory kit
- No-flat wheels
- Prime eligible
Cons
- Requires more trips
- Still heavy when full
The 21-gallon Rhino is the most practical compact option in the Camco group. It is easier to place in a small camper or SUV, yet it still comes with no-flat wheels, a low drain hole, a tank rinser, and a broad set of hoses and fittings.
The package includes a 3-foot sewer hose, a 15-inch gray water hose, clear elbows, storage caps, and a steel tow adapter. That completeness matters when I want a reliable setup without hunting for adapters before the first use.
Its main limitation is obvious from the capacity: a larger black tank may require more than one transfer. I treat that as a planned workflow rather than a defect, filling the tote, closing the valve, and returning for another load if necessary.
The low drain hole helps me aim for complete emptying, while the smooth interior and rinser simplify cleanup. Prime eligibility is a convenience, not a performance feature, but it can make replacement parts or accessories easier to obtain.
With 27,262 reviews and a 4.7 rating in the product data, this is a well-supported choice despite its smaller capacity. It is the value pick for a small RV owner who wants the Rhino feature set without the larger frame.
For whom it’s good
It suits popup campers, small travel trailers, and anyone with limited garage or basement storage. The complete kit is also a good fit for first-time tote owners who want clear instructions and fewer separate purchases.
It works well when the dump station is close and trips can be made in batches. I would keep the second trip in mind if the RV has several people using the bathroom between dumps.
For whom it’s bad
It is not ideal for a large coach with a big black tank or for a family trying to minimize dump-station visits. A loaded 21-gallon tote is still heavy, so compact size does not mean easy lifting.
The 28- or 36-gallon Rhino is the better answer when one-trip capacity is more important than storage. The Barker models are worth considering when empty weight and a simpler cart-style format matter.
4. Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Steerable Tote Tank — Best Four-Wheel Handling
Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Portable Camper/RV Tote Tank – Features 2 Steerable No-Flat Front Wheels & Built-in Gate Valve – Includes Removable 24″ Tow Bar, 3’ Sewer Hose & More RV Accessories (39007)
36-gallon capacity
Two steerable front wheels
24-inch removable tow bar
Pros
- Four-wheel stability
- Steerable front wheels
- Large capacity
- 12-inch rear wheels
- Tank rinser
Cons
- Heaviest empty model
- Higher price point
This four-wheel Rhino is the handling-focused version of the 36-gallon design. Two steerable front wheels and two 12-inch no-flat rear wheels make it easier to guide a loaded tote through a campsite, around a dump island, or over a cracked apron.
The 24-inch removable tow bar gives me a practical way to move the tank without pulling it sideways. The built-in gate valve, 3-foot sewer hose, rinser, and ladder hook match the useful Rhino equipment package.
It is listed at 55 pounds empty in the reviews data and 59 pounds in the product specifications. That makes it the heaviest option here, and the full load will require either careful rolling, towing, or a helper.
The 4.7 rating is supported by 2,430 reviews, fewer than the other Rhino models but enough to show the steerable design has a following. The 83% five-star share in the supplied data is encouraging for a model that is more mechanically complex than a basic cart.
I would choose this when maneuvering is the problem I am trying to solve. It costs more and takes more effort to store, but four wheels can make a loaded tank feel more stable than a two-wheel tote on a rough path.
For whom it’s good
It is best for larger RVs and dump stations with tight turns, sloped approaches, or loose surfaces. Owners who prefer to tow rather than lift will appreciate the 24-inch bar and rear-wheel size.
It also makes sense when more than one person helps with the sanitation task. Four wheels provide stability, while the steering assembly reduces the force needed to redirect the front of the tank.
For whom it’s bad
It is the wrong choice for a small storage bay or a solo user who must lift it frequently. The extra wheels and frame add weight before wastewater is added.
If the route is flat and short, the standard 36-gallon Rhino is simpler and less costly. If low empty weight is the priority, the Barker 11104 is the more direct fit.
5. Barker 11104 Tote-Along Tank — Best Lightweight Budget Pick
BARKER 11104 Tote-Along Tank – 22 Gallon, Blue
22-gallon capacity
16-pound empty weight
Zinc-plated steel brackets
Pros
- Light empty weight
- Large wheels
- Standard bayonet fittings
- Tow bracket
- 5-foot hose
Cons
- Smaller capacity
- Limited stock
- Lower rating than Camco
The Barker 11104 stands out for its low empty weight. At 16 pounds in the review data, it is much easier to move onto a scale, into a storage area, or toward a dump station than the 45- to 59-pound shells in the larger four-wheel models.
Its 22-gallon capacity is still useful for many campers, and the included 5-foot sewer hose, tow bracket, standard bayonet fittings, and zinc-plated steel brackets make the basic system practical. The extra-large wheels are a nice feature for a cart-style tank.
The tradeoff is capacity and confidence. The listed stock was limited, and its 4.5 rating trails the 4.7 ratings of the Camco models, so I would inspect the brackets, valves, and fittings before the first full use.
Barker is known among forum users for durable “Blue Boy” equipment, and the 11104 has been available since June 15, 2004. That long product history can be helpful when replacement parts or familiar fittings are already part of a camper’s sanitation kit.
I see this as the best value for a small or medium RV owner who values handling over maximum volume. It is not the biggest tote, but its lighter shell may make the difference between using the system and leaving it behind.
For whom it’s good
It suits small campers, older RVs, and buyers who want a traditional towable tote with a manageable empty weight. The included tow bracket also makes it attractive for anyone already set up to pull a small utility load.
It is a good match for campground dump stations that are close to the campsite. A short route makes the smaller capacity less noticeable and keeps the system easy to use.
For whom it’s bad
It is not the first choice for a large family rig or anyone who wants to drain a full RV black tank in one trip. The smaller tank also means more trips when gray water contributes to the load.
The limited-stock warning is worth respecting, especially if a replacement valve or bracket may be needed later. A buyer wanting the strongest review history should consider a Rhino instead.
6. Barker 25895 4-Wheeler Tote-Along — Best Quiet Four-Wheel Cart
Barker 25895 4-Wheeler Tote-Along – 25 Gallon, Blue
25-gallon capacity
Front double-swivel wheels
3-inch waste valve
Pros
- Quiet rolling
- Front swivel wheels
- 3-inch valve
- No lifting to empty
- Durable construction
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- May need extra hose
The Barker 25895 is built around a front-mounted double-swivel wheel system. That arrangement makes the 25-gallon tank more responsive when I am turning around an RV sewer connection or positioning the drain over a dump inlet.
Its blow-molded polyethylene body uses zinc-plated steel and aluminum components, and the large mounting plate is designed for a stable connection. The 3-inch conventional waste valve opens for emptying without requiring the tank to be lifted.
The product is listed at 35 pounds and is not Prime eligible. I would confirm that my existing sewer hose reaches the tank and that the extra fittings needed for a particular RV are on hand before relying on it at a remote campground.
Owner data gives it 3,063 reviews and a 4.5 average, with praise for quiet operation and easy maneuvering. The lack of Prime eligibility is a purchasing inconvenience rather than a sanitation limitation, but it can matter when a part is needed quickly.
This is the Barker I would pick for a user who values four-wheel stability and a smooth, quiet roll more than a large capacity. It is also a good alternative when a full tank cannot be lifted but can be emptied by opening a valve.
For whom it’s good
It works for medium-size RVs and owners who want a tank to track straighter and turn more easily than a basic two-wheel cart. The front swivel assembly is especially helpful on a dump island with limited clearance.
It is also suitable for anyone who wants the drain valve, rather than tipping, to do the emptying work. I would still use a level area and keep the outlet aligned before releasing the valve.
For whom it’s bad
It may be excessive for a small RV that rarely leaves a full hookup site. The 25-gallon capacity is not a match for every large coach tank, and the listed setup may require an additional hose.
Buyers who want Prime delivery or the largest possible capacity may prefer a Rhino or the 36-gallon RecPro. The 25895 is a handling and construction choice, not the cheapest option.
7. Thetford SmartTote2 35-Gallon Tank — Best Integrated Storage
Thetford SmartTote2 RV Portable Waste Tote Tank – 4 Wheels – 35 Gallon – Thetford 40519 , Silver
35-gallon capacity
Auto Stop level gauge
PermaStore component compartment
Pros
- PermaStore compartment
- Auto Stop gauge
- Four rubber wheels
- Extendable handle
- Heavy-duty hose
Cons
- 3.6 rating
- Larger dimensions
- Reliability concerns in reviews
The SmartTote2 focuses on keeping the complete sanitation kit together. Its PermaStore compartment holds the hose and components, and the heavy-duty hose uses a universal bayonet fitting for connection to the RV.
The Auto Stop level gauge is the feature I find most useful. It is designed to help prevent overfilling, which is especially important when a 35-gallon tank is being moved without a clear view through the body.
Four rubber wheels and an extendable handle support transport, while a venting port is intended to help the tank empty. The listed 29-pound empty weight is lower than the four-wheel Camco and RecPro models, but the 51.41-inch length still needs a generous storage space.
The supplied review data is the warning: 537 reviews average 3.6 stars, and 23% are one-star reviews. Owners appreciate the storage and gauge, but reliability complaints mean I would inspect the wheels, fittings, and valve before every trip and keep a backup plan.
I would consider this tank when organized storage and fill protection outweigh the need for the strongest rating. It is not my first pick for a remote trip where replacement parts may be difficult to find.
For whom it’s good
It suits organized RVers who want hoses, elbows, and small parts stored in one place. The Auto Stop gauge is valuable for anyone worried about overfilling a large tank during a transfer.
It may also fit owners who prefer rubber wheels and an extendable hitch handle over a permanently attached tow bar. The 35-gallon capacity covers many travel-trailer black tanks.
For whom it’s bad
It is a poor choice for someone who prioritizes proven long-term owner consensus above extra organization. The 3.6 rating and 23% one-star share deserve more weight than the feature list.
It is also not ideal for a compact storage bay because of its 51.41-inch length. Buyers wanting the most confident overall package should compare the Camco Rhino models and the RecPro.
8. RecPro 36-Gallon RV Waste Tank — Best Newer High-Capacity Option
RecPro RV Portable Waste Tank | 36 Gallon | Blue | No-Flat Tires
36-gallon capacity
Flat-free diamond tread tires
Built-in venting cap
Pros
- Large capacity
- Flat-free tires
- Fill indicator
- Large ports
- Pre-assembled
Cons
- Heaviest empty option
- Only 106 reviews
RecPro’s 36-gallon tank is a newer high-capacity option with a practical feature set. It arrives pre-assembled, so I can focus on the waste connection and familiarizing myself with the valves instead of assembling a cart or tow package.
The flat-free tires use a diamond-pattern tread for grip, and the large ports are designed to make emptying faster. A built-in venting cap and fill-level indicator add visibility and control during a transfer.
Its 54.9-pound listed weight is the highest empty weight in this roundup. I would plan to tow it or have another person help, especially if the dump station is not on level ground.
The product data shows a 4.3 rating from 106 reviews, with 75% five-star responses. That is encouraging, but the smaller review base means I would read recent owner feedback for any recurring wheel, valve, or handle issues before committing.
I like the bright blue color because it is easy to spot in a storage bay or at a dump station. The combination of capacity, pre-assembly, and flat-free tires makes it a compelling choice for a larger RV with room for a substantial tank.
For whom it’s good
It is good for owners of larger travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes who want 36 gallons and prefer flat-free tires. The pre-assembled design is useful for someone who does not want to install a tow bar or cart.
It also suits buyers who value a fill-level indicator and large emptying ports. I would use it when the route to the dump station is short enough that the heavier empty tank remains manageable.
For whom it’s bad
It is not suited to a small camper, a shallow storage compartment, or a user who must lift a tote without assistance. Its empty weight is already close to that of the heaviest Rhino model.
The limited review history makes it harder to judge long-term durability. A buyer who values many owner reports over newer convenience features may prefer the established 36-gallon Rhino.
How to Choose the Best Portable Waste Tank for Your RV?
Choose a portable waste tank by matching the tote’s usable capacity to the RV’s black tank, not by choosing the largest number on a shelf. Also compare the route, storage dimensions, wheel arrangement, and how you will move a full load.
Match capacity to the RV’s black tank
A good starting point is a tote that holds at least the usable volume of the RV black tank. If the RV tank is larger than the tote, I plan two or more transfers and leave room for wastewater to expand rather than filling to the brim.
Small campers and couples often find 21 to 25 gallons sufficient. A 28- to 36-gallon model is usually the better match for a large travel trailer, fifth wheel, or motorhome, but the larger size also adds storage and handling demands.
Check the RV manufacturer’s listed tank capacity and account for the gray tank only if the planned setup intentionally combines them. A dedicated black-tank tote is the simpler starting point for most buyers.
Choose two wheels or four based on the route
Two-wheel tanks are compact and often lighter, but they need more force to steer and can be less stable on loose ground. Four-wheel models spread the load and usually make a long or uneven trip easier.
I would pick a two-wheel tote for short, paved routes and a four-wheel model for gravel, slopes, or a station at the far end of a campground. No-flat tires reduce the chance that a puncture ends a sanitation trip.
Full weight changes the calculation. Water weighs about 8.34 pounds per gallon, so a 36-gallon load can add roughly 300 pounds before the tank itself, fittings, and residual contents.
Look for features that make dumping safer and cleaner
A tank rinser helps clean the inside after emptying, while a fill-level indicator or clear viewing area reduces the risk of overfilling. I also look for a dependable gate valve, a cap or plug for the outlet, and a secure connection between the tote and the RV sewer hose.
A ladder hook is useful for storage, but only when it fits the RV and does not interfere with the rear ladder. A PermaStore-style compartment is helpful if small elbows, caps, and adapters otherwise disappear in a storage bay.
Finally, verify the included hose length, bayonet fittings, and tow hardware before departure. A tank can be excellent on paper and still be incomplete if the RV uses a different connection or the route requires a longer hose.
Plan storage, lifting, and towing before purchase
Measure the narrowest storage opening, not just the space inside the compartment. I also measure the turning radius from the RV waste outlet to the dump station and confirm that the tow adapter is compatible with the vehicle I intend to use.
Forum owners repeatedly identify broken wheels, heavy loaded tanks, and uncertain fill levels as the biggest practical problems. Those reports are a reminder to inspect axles and brackets, keep the route level, and use a second person when a full tote cannot be moved safely alone.
A DIY 55-gallon barrel on a hitch or cargo rack is another option mentioned by experienced campers, but it requires a secure frame, compatible fittings, and careful leak testing. A purpose-built tote is easier to trust for routine RV sanitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ice cubes in the RV black tank really work?
They may add a small amount of water and help move loose waste, but they do not replace proper tank maintenance. Use enough water during use, avoid putting harsh chemicals or large objects into the tank, and use the RV manufacturer’s approved treatment method.
Which RV tank should I dump first?
Dump the black tank first, then open the gray tank to rinse the sewer hose and help clear remaining solids. If the campground instructions or your RV manual specify a different order, follow them.
What is a good portable gray water tank for an RV?
A good portable gray water tank should have a capacity suited to the RV, secure fittings, a drain valve, and wheels or handles that match the route to the disposal point. The 21- to 25-gallon models in this guide can work for smaller setups, while larger households may need 28 to 36 gallons.
Can I tow a portable waste tank behind my RV or vehicle?
Yes, when the model includes a compatible tow bar or bracket and the tow vehicle, hitch, and terrain are rated for the loaded weight. Secure the connection, use a safe speed, and never tow a leaking or overfilled tank.
What is the best portable RV waste tank overall?
The Camco Rhino 36-Gallon Tote Tank is the best overall choice here because it combines a large 36-gallon capacity, no-flat wheels, a tow adapter, a gate valve, and a tank rinser. Buyers with smaller storage areas may prefer the 21- or 28-gallon Rhino, while the Barker 11104 is the lighter budget option.
Final Recommendation
For most RVers, the Camco Rhino 36-Gallon is the best portable waste tank for an RV because it combines useful capacity, no-flat wheels, towing support, and a complete set of sanitation accessories. The Camco Rhino 21-Gallon is the best value for a compact setup, and the Barker 11104 is the pick for buyers who want a lighter tank.
Before buying, I would measure the storage bay, confirm the RV tank volume, and test whether the route to the dump station is better handled by a two-wheel cart or a four-wheel system. The right choice in 2026 is the one that makes a full tank easier and safer to move, not simply the largest tank available.