Photography by Richard Giordano
Boxio Portable Camping Sink
Established in Germany, Boxio manufactures stackable toilets and sinks made from recycled plastics. Inspiration struck while founder Arvid was building a tiny house for his family. Composting toilets in Europe were expensive and complicated, so with the help of his co-founders and a couple of engineers, a prototype was built. By 2022, Boxio became a full-fledged company, shipping units to customers worldwide.
The 8.37-pound Boxio portable sink measures 11.81 x 14.75 x 11 inches and houses a 1.3-gallon water tank with an identically sized greywater jug. Those who require more freshwater will need to carry a dedicated jug or jerry. A hinged washbasin insert with a stopper and strainer fits on top. Water runs through the faucet thanks to a hand pump, which worked flawlessly during testing. The components are made from recycled plastics such as PP and ABS regenerates—aside from the fittings, which are stainless steel. I particularly appreciate that the system doesn’t require any power or charging.
Those with full-size pots and dishes might find the sink on the small side, and enthusiastic washing leads to water seepage into the housing box through the gap between it and the sink insert. Overall, however, this practical unit offers more pros than cons and could easily be used as an effective hand wash station or quick lunchtime cleaning session. Store a small bottle of soap and a sponge in the washbasin, and there’s no excuse for dirty hands or dishes.
$259 | myboxio.com
Boxio Portable Composting Toilet
Some of you may recall my quest for the optimal overland toilet solution in “When Nature Calls” (Overland Journal, Summer 2023). While I tested a variety of excellent candidates, none were the right fit for my full-time truck camper lifestyle. Eager to avoid the early morning blackwater dump walk of shame here in Europe, I sought something lightweight, compact, portable, and as hands-off as possible. Fortunately, Boxio’s composting toilet promised all of these things.
Thanks to a separation insert made of ABS regenerated plastic, Boxio’s dry composting toilet eliminates the need for chemicals or water-based disposal. The system comprises a 15.7 x 11.8 x 11-inch nondescript black box that houses a 1.32-gallon solids container, a 1.32-gallon leak-proof urine canister, and a separator. Line the solids container with a compostable bag, toss in a handful of hemp grit, and your toilet is open for business.
While the Boxio’s size (and 6.17-pound weight) is fab for storage and transportation (it lives under our OEV Alpine camper dinette, in an exterior side box, or in the back seat of our 2008 Tundra), some might find the seat too small. Note that scooting into the proper position is important to ensure separation, as urine can splash into the solids container. While the feces receptacle offers capacity for eight to 10 uses (I never made it that far), the urine jug must be emptied every two to three days to prevent “unpleasant odors” from forming. I wouldn’t say the toilet remains completely odor-free; however, consistent washing, rinsing, and keeping the lids closed has kept smells at bay.
To empty, lift the diverter (the indented “handle” here is one of the product’s weakest points) and tote your liquids canister to the nearest toilet for emptying. I find the jug’s awkward shape prevents complete draining. Boxio says urine can be diluted with water at a ratio of 1:10 to water the garden, and feces can be composted. If you don’t have a garden, it is imperative to dispose of your waste properly per local regulations. All in all, Boxio’s portable toilet isn’t perfect—but its size and weight, ease of use, and discreteness make it my favorite so far.
$340/toilet max + starter kit, $260/toilet only, accessories sold separately | myboxio.com
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