The smallest RVs with a shower and toilet come in two bathroom styles: wet baths and dry baths. Wet baths combine the shower, toilet, and sink in one compact, waterproof space.
Dry baths separate these fixtures like a traditional bathroom. For driveable options, Class B campervans like the Airstream Interstate 19 (19 feet) and Winnebago Travato pack full wet baths into nimble packages.
Towable options include the Scamp 13′ Deluxe and nuCamp TAB, both under 2,000 pounds with wet baths. The Jayco Hummingbird 16MRB offers a full dry bath in under 20 feet. Wet baths save space but need post-shower cleanup. Dry baths feel more like home but take up more room.
If you want to rent an RV that will help keep your travel costs low while still offering all the basic amenities of home, book a small RV with a bathroom. Here at Outdoorsy, there’s a wide selection of miniature homes on wheels, both drivable and towable.
What Makes an RV “Small” When It Includes a Bathroom?
Small RVs with bathrooms range from 13 to 24 feet long and weigh under 5,000 pounds. These compact rigs are towable by most SUVs or half-ton trucks and easy to maneuver.
Small RVs with bathrooms offer some serious benefits. You get great fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs, easier parking, and more campground options. Plus, you won’t be stuck searching for public restrooms in the middle of the night.
Here’s what counts as “small” when it comes to RVs with bathrooms:
Class B Campervans are built on van chassis like the Mercedes Sprinter or Ram ProMaster. They typically measure 18-21 feet and can drive anywhere a regular vehicle can go. Perfect for couples or solo travelers.
Teardrop Trailers like the Scamp 13′ Deluxe weigh under 2,000 pounds. Most SUVs can tow them, and some sedans can handle them, too.
Small Travel Trailers range from 16-24 feet. They offer more living space than teardrops while staying manageable for first-time towers.
Truck Campers like the Lance 650 slide into your pickup bed. Even with a wet bath included, they keep a small footprint.
Manufacturers have gotten creative with space-saving features. Folding sinks, convertible shower areas, and smart storage make these small bathrooms surprisingly functional. According to Camping World, demand for compact RVs with bathrooms keeps growing as more people discover they don’t need a massive rig to camp comfortably.
What’s the Difference Between Wet Baths and Dry Baths?
Wet baths combine the shower, toilet, and sink in one waterproof space. Everything gets wet when you shower. Dry baths separate these fixtures like a traditional bathroom, keeping the toilet area dry.
Understanding the difference between wet and dry baths is important before you rent or buy a small RV.
Wet Baths
In a wet bath, the entire bathroom is designed to get wet. The floor has a drain, walls are waterproof, and when you shower, water goes everywhere—toilet, sink, everything.
Winnebago’s bathroom guide explains that wet baths are the standard in Class B campervans and small trailers because they maximize space. Some include flip-down sinks that tuck away for a more spacious shower.
Wet Bath Benefits:
- Takes up 30-40% less space than a dry bath
- Larger shower area since you use the whole bathroom
- Easy cleanup with a squeegee after showering
- You can sit on the toilet while showering if needed
- Great for boondocking and water conservation
Wet Bath Drawbacks:
- Everything gets wet, including toilet paper (get a waterproof holder)
- Needs cleanup after every shower
- Limited storage for toiletries
- Can’t have two people using the space at once
- Can feel tight in ultra-compact units
Dry Baths
Dry baths work like your bathroom at home—separate shower, toilet, and sink. You typically find these in RVs 20 feet and longer.
According to RVSelect, dry baths are popular with full-timers and families spending extended time in their RV.
Dry Bath Benefits:
- Separate shower keeps toilet and sink dry
- More storage space
- Two people can use the space at once
- No squeegee needed after showers
- Feels like a regular bathroom
Dry Bath Drawbacks:
- Needs more floor space
- Usually only in RVs 20+ feet
- Shower stalls still tight in compact models
- May reduce space in other living areas
The choice depends on your priorities. Weekend warriors often prefer wet baths for fuel efficiency and easy parking. Full-timers and families usually want the extra space of a dry bath.
Small RVs With Shower and Toilet for Rent Near You
What Are the Best Small Class B Motorhomes with Bathrooms?
Smallest RV with Shower and Toilet: Class B – Airstream Interstate 19
Dry Weight: 7,385 lbs.
Dimensions: 19′5″X6′7″X9′7″
Sleep Capacity: 2
MSRP: $215,251
If you’re in the market for a nimble campervan that’s outfitted with the finest amenities, look no further than the Airstream Interstate 19. It has all the elegant features RVers love fit smartly into a nineteen-foot floor plan.
Some of its standout appointments include a power sofa and side seats that convert into the largest bed in its class and a modern mini-kitchen for cooking up treats at the campsite. One interface also controls shades, lighting, awning, AC, and monitor tanks and power levels. Thanks to its small stature, this Class B feels absolutely at home, whether in the confines of the city or on narrow country roads.
Bathroom Features
To help you stay fresh and feel good on the road, Interstate 19 comes with a spacious, European-style wet bath. The space houses a shower, toilet, sink, and a built-in shampoo station, exhaust fan, and clothesline. The freshwater tank holds 21 gallons, while the gray and black tanks hold 16 and 9 gallons, respectively.
Smallest RV with Shower and Toilet: Class C – Gulfstream BT Cruiser 5210
GVWR: 12,500 lbs.
Dimensions: 22’6″X8’X10’6″
Sleep Capacity: 2
MSRP: $94,900
If you are looking for a mini Class C RV equipped with a full bathroom, the Gulfstream BT Cruiser 5210 is a perfect candidate. It delivers a comfortable touring experience as it can drive anywhere, from busy city streets and narrow byways to twisty country roads. More importantly, this unit doesn’t skimp on features.
It has two soft-touch jackknife sofas for lounging during the day, and they convert to create sleeping space at night. In the kitchen, you’ll have full amenities to fix your favorite meals, including a 3-burner range with oven, microwave, a large sink with a high-rise faucet, plus a good-size refrigerator. Outside, the power awning creates an outdoor living area.
Bathroom Features
At the rear, you will find a super convenient bathroom with a separate shower and toilet. Next to it is a wardrobe to keep your clothes wrinkle-free. The freshwater tank’s capacity is 41 gallons, the gray holds 26 gallons, while the black stores 26 gallons.
Smallest RV with Shower and Toilet: Class A – Thor Axis 24.1
GVWR: 12,000 lbs.
Dimensions: 25’8″X7’10”X11″
Sleep Capacity: 5
MSRP: $169,650
Sure, Class A RVs aren’t known for being small in size. But interestingly, not all of them are the size of a bus. There are plenty of miniature Class As you can buy, the best being the Thor Axis 24.1. Smaller than most Class C RVs, this rig gives you confidence behind the wheel without giving up on the luxury amenities synonymous with Class As.
Some of the best highlights include two twin beds in the rear that convert to a California king if required, a sleeper sofa, and a drop-down bunk in the cockpit. Moreover, it has a convection microwave oven, cooktop, double-door refrigerators, two TVs in the living room and bedroom, plus a nicely finished Euro-style interior.
Bathroom Features
The Axis 24.1 has a dry bathroom, meaning the shower and toilet are separate. The space also boasts a sink, medicine cabinet, drawers, a robe hook, a skylight, a power vent, and a mirror. On tank capacity, the freshwater supplies 42 gallons, the gray holds 40 gallons, while the black maxes at 30 gallons.
Smallest RV with Shower and Toilet: Travel Trailer – Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E15TB
Dry Weight: 2,608 lbs.
Dimensions: 15’8″X7’6″X9’8″
Sleep Capacity: 2
MSRP: $23,873
Fondly called the Swiss Army Knife of RVs, the Forest River Flagstaff E-Pro E15TB is one of the tiniest trailers with a shower and bathroom. Despite its compact footprint, it’s super functional and packed with most of the comforts you need to have a fulfilling adventure.
Inside this walkable travel trailer, you’ll find two twin beds that convert into a king bed. The cooktop makes making healthy meals a breeze, and the microwave is for quick snacks. The fridge is also a fabulous addition, allowing you to store perishables and leftovers. You can watch the TV from the dinette/bed to stay entertained indoors.
Bathroom Features
This camper is equipped with a wet bath, allowing you to skip the public facilities. It has a shower wand, foot flush toilet, and ventilation fan. Its fresh water tank accommodates 31 gallons, while both the gray and black have a capacity of 12 gallons.
Smallest RV with Shower and Toilet: Fifth-Wheel – Scamp 19′ Deluxe
Dry Weight: 2,800 lbs.
Dimensions: 19’X6’8″X8’10”
Sleep Capacity: 6
MSRP: $22,295
Fifth wheels are widely known for their giant size and spacious configurations. But not all 5th wheels are enormous. Some, like the Scamp 19’ are super compact, light, and extremely easy to tow and reverse. At just 19 feet long, this 5th wheel is the smallest you can get. Crucially, all three Scamp 19’ Deluxe layouts come with a bathroom.
You’ll be impressed by the kitchen, which is equipped with a gas stove, sink, refrigerator, pantry, and counter space. Tremendous storage space is available in the rear overhead compartments, on the cabinets above the stovetop, and below the bed.
Bathroom Features
This miniature fifth wheel has an interior wet bath complete with a shower and dry flush toilet. The bath also houses a sink, and when you step outside, you’ll find an outdoor shower. Tank capacities vary greatly depending on the layout you pick.
Check out this video tour of a Scamp 19’ Deluxe:
Smallest Pop-Up Camper with a Bathroom – Forest River Rockwood High Wall Series HW277
Dry Weight: 3,334 lbs.
Dimensions: 19’6″X7’X6’7″
Sleep Capacity: 6
MSRP: $19,999
Fancy a pop-up camper, but don’t want to compromise on having a bathroom? Check out the Forest River Rockwood High Wall Series. This folding camper has plenty of exciting highlights, including a U-shaped dinette with a sofa and table, a king and queen bed, plus a hanging wardrobe.
The interior also comes equipped with a 3-burner gas range, microwave, sink, refrigerator, an oven, and generous storage space. To make bigger meals for the crew, you can also use the slide-out kitchen and griddle outdoors. The rig is solar-ready and has a WiFi extender and electric brakes. It’s super easy to store inside a garage and pull with an SUV due to its low profile and lightweight nature.
Bathroom Features
This pop-up has everything you need to feel clean and energized on the road. There’s a cassette toilet, shower, and a curtain that allows you to wash off inside in privacy. Fresh water is supplied by a 20-gallon tank, while wastewater is stored in a 12-gallon gray and 12-gallon black tank.
Smallest Teardrop Camper with a Bathroom – nuCamp TAB 320 S
Dry Weight: 2,000 lbs.
Dimensions: 15’10″X7’4″X9’7″
Sleep Capacity: 2
MSRP: $27,995
If you don’t mind towing a teardrop, the nuCamp TAB 320 S is one of the smallest campers with a bathroom. What sets it apart from other egg-shaped campers is its phenomenal features. It has all the essentials you need for a weekend excursion or extended trip at a moment’s notice.
Step inside, and you’ll find a galley with a 12v refrigerator, 2-burner glass-top stove, stainless steel sink, and lots of under-the-counter storage. There’s also a u-shaped dinette that converts into a comfortable sleeping area, power roof fan, tank/battery monitor, custom screen/shade control, and an entry step light.
Bathroom Features
This trailer has a wet bath that has a cassette toilet and a built-in sink. To support the plumbing fixtures is a 19-gallon fresh water tank, plus gray and black tanks that hold 18 and 5 gallons, respectively. You’ll also find an external shower.
Smallest Truck Camper with a Bathroom – Lance 650
Dry Weight: 2,061 lbs
Dimensions: 15’6”X 86”X8’1”
Sleep Capacity: 3
Starting MSRP: $35,456
Designed for short bed half-ton trucks, the Lance 650 is a small camping unit, perfect for those who want to travel light. You won’t have an issue toting it around your favorite destinations, plus its quality construction means you can depend on it for years to come.
Inside, this pickup camper is decked out with many comforts of home. The galley has a two-burner propane cooktop, sink, microwave oven, solid surface countertop, upper cabinet, silverware organizer, two drawers, and a window to bring in the fresh air. On top of that is a U-shaped dinette with a solid surface table and a north-south queen-size bed.
Bathroom Features
You never have to rely on public restrooms when adventuring in this camper. It houses a bathroom with a shower, foot pedal toilet, towel rod, power roof vent, skylight, and ducted heat. Tank capacities are as follows: fresh tank – 22 gallons, gray tank – 15, and black tank – 16.
Small RVs With Shower and Toilet for Rent Near You
will help you select a small RV with a bathroom that suits your needs and ensures comfort on the road!
How Much Water Do Small RV Bathrooms Use?
Small RVs typically carry 10-30 gallons of fresh water. Wet baths use approximately 2-5 gallons per shower compared to 10-20 gallons in larger RVs with dry baths.
Water management becomes important in small RVs, especially when boondocking without hookups. Understanding your system helps you maximize time between fill-ups.
Tank Capacities in Small RVs
Class B Campervans:
- Fresh water: 15-25 gallons
- Gray water: 12-20 gallons
- Black water: 6-12 gallons
Small Travel Trailers:
- Fresh water: 20-35 gallons
- Gray water: 20-30 gallons
- Black water: 15-25 gallons
Truck Campers:
- Fresh water: 10-20 gallons
- Gray water: 10-18 gallons
- Black water: 6-10 gallons
The Navy Shower Technique
This method extends your boondocking adventures significantly:
- Get wet (30 seconds)
- Turn off water
- Soap up
- Rinse off (60-90 seconds)
- Total water used: 2-3 gallons
Compare that to a regular shower (5-10 gallons) or home shower (15-20 gallons).
Water Conservation Tips
Install a water-saving showerhead. Look for RV-specific models that provide good pressure while using less water.
Use the kitchen sink strategically. Brush teeth and wash your face at the kitchen sink to save bathroom water for showers and toilet use.
Wet wipes for quick refreshes. Between showers, quality wet wipes save water and tank space.
Consider a cassette toilet. These use less water per flush than traditional RV toilets and are easier to empty.
According to The Vansmith, most van lifers can go 3-4 days between tank dumps with conservative water use.
What Should First-Time Buyers Know About Small RV Bathrooms?
First-time buyers should test bathrooms in person, check ceiling height for comfortable showering, verify tank capacities for their camping style, and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent mold.
Don’t buy a small RV without actually using the bathroom. Climb in there, close the door, and simulate your morning routine.
Height Matters
If you’re over 5’10”, pay attention to bathroom ceiling height. Some wet baths in ultra-compact RVs have low ceilings that force taller people to crouch while showering.
Stand up straight in the bathroom. Can you raise your arms to wash your hair comfortably? If not, keep looking.
Moisture Management
Small RV bathrooms—especially wet baths—require diligent moisture management. According to Camping World, proper ventilation and post-shower drying prevent mold, mildew, and musty smells.
Essential bathroom accessories:
- Quality squeegee (small enough for tight spaces)
- Microfiber drying towels
- Moisture-absorbing bags or containers
- Working exhaust fan (test it before buying)
Maintenance Check
Small RV bathrooms have less room for error. A small leak becomes a big problem faster. During your walk-through:
- Check for water damage around fixtures
- Test the shower pan for soft spots or cracks
- Verify all seals are intact
- Run water through all drains to check for leaks
- Ensure the toilet has a good seal
Cost Considerations
Small RVs under 5,000 pounds with bathrooms generally cost less than larger models, but don’t assume smaller equals cheaper. Quality construction, bathroom fixtures, and water systems add costs.
Budget for:
- Initial purchase price
- Tow vehicle (if needed)
- Maintenance and repairs
- Campground fees
- Fuel costs
- Insurance
The good news: Small RVs typically cost less to insure, require less fuel, and fit into more affordable campground sites.
Try Before You Buy
Rent the exact model you’re considering for a weekend trip. Or at minimum, rent something similar to test the wet bath versus dry bath decision.
Browse small RV rentals on Outdoorsy to find compact rigs with bathrooms in your area. Spend a weekend living in one—you’ll learn more than reading any guide.
Take a shower after a dusty hike. Use the toilet at 2 AM. Try to get ready for the day while your partner is still sleeping. These real-world tests beat reading specs.
Where Can You Find Small RV Rentals with Bathrooms?
Outdoorsy offers thousands of small RV rentals with bathrooms nationwide. You can try Class B campervans, small travel trailers, and compact fifth wheels before purchasing.
Renting before buying isn’t just smart—it’s essential. You’ll learn more in one weekend trip than reading 100 blog posts.
Popular Rental Destinations
Denver RV Rentals: Test mountain driving and high-altitude camping in a compact Class B. The Colorado Rockies challenge both drivers and bathroom systems.
Portland RV Rentals: Experience Pacific Northwest weather in a small RV. If the bathroom stays dry and ventilates well in Oregon’s moisture, it’ll work anywhere.
Salt Lake City RV Rentals: Use this as a base for accessing multiple national parks. Small RVs with bathrooms shine when navigating park roads and campgrounds.
Houston RV Rentals: Test Texas heat and humidity—important for evaluating bathroom ventilation and water system performance in summer conditions.
What to Test During Your Rental
Water System:
- How long does water last with normal use?
- How quickly do tanks fill?
- Is water pressure adequate for comfortable showering?
Space Functionality:
- Can two people move around each other in the morning?
- Does the wet bath feel manageable or too tight?
- Is there adequate storage for toiletries?
Cleaning and Maintenance:
- How long does post-shower cleanup take?
- Does the exhaust fan dry things adequately?
- How challenging is tank dumping?
Rental Pricing
Small Class B campervans with bathrooms typically rent for $150-300 per night. Compact travel trailers range from $75-175 per night. Weekend rentals often include discounted rates.
Many owners offer discounts for longer rentals. Consider a week-long trip to really understand the bathroom situation. You’ll experience multiple shower days, tank dumps, and cleaning routines.
What Are Common Issues with Small RV Bathrooms (And How to Fix Them)?
Common small RV bathroom issues include inadequate ventilation causing mold, low water pressure, tank sensor malfunctions, and space constraints. Most are fixable with upgraded fans, better showerheads, proper sensor maintenance, and smart storage solutions.
Small RV bathrooms come with unique challenges, but experienced RVers have developed solutions for nearly everything.
Ventilation and Moisture Problems
The Issue: Small spaces trap humidity, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. Wet baths especially struggle since everything gets damp.
The Solution:
- Upgrade to a high-CFM exhaust fan (MaxxAir or Fantastic Fan models work well)
- Run the fan during and for 30 minutes after showering
- Use a dehumidifier (small 12V models work great)
- Leave the bathroom door cracked when not in use
- Install moisture-absorbing bags (replace monthly)
- Squeegee walls and floor after every shower
According to RV wet bath experts, consistent post-shower drying is essential.
Low Water Pressure
The Issue: Small RV water pumps and narrow pipes result in lackluster showers.
The Solution:
- Upgrade to a higher-GPM water pump (consider the SHURflo 4008 series)
- Install a water pressure regulator to maintain a consistent flow
- Replace the showerhead with an RV-specific model designed for low-pressure systems
- Consider an Oxygenics showerhead—uses less water while feeling more powerful
Tank Sensor Failures
The Issue: Tank sensors get gunked up with toilet paper, waste residue, and mineral deposits, giving false readings.
The Solution:
- Use tank cleaning products after each dump (Unique or Sensible brands)
- Add ice and water, then drive to agitate and clean sensors
- Install external tank monitors for more accurate readings
- Learn to estimate levels based on usage patterns
Space and Storage Challenges
The Issue: Small RV bathrooms offer minimal storage, and items need removal before showering in a wet bath.
The Solution:
- Install hanging organizers on the back of the bathroom door
- Use magnetic strips to hold metal items (tweezers, scissors, nail clippers)
- Add suction-cup shelves in the shower area
- Keep a caddy with essential items you can quickly grab before showering
- Store toiletries in the bedroom or kitchen area instead
Temperature Fluctuations
The Issue: Small water heaters struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, resulting in lukewarm or quickly cooling showers.
The Solution:
- Insulate hot water lines to reduce heat loss
- Upgrade to a tankless water heater if possible
- Perfect the Navy shower technique to conserve hot water
- Preheat the water by running it briefly before getting in
- Consider installing a small 12V heated shower mat for cold mornings
Odor Management
The Issue: Small bathrooms can develop odors from holding tanks, especially in warm weather.
The Solution:
- Use high-quality tank treatments (Happy Campers or Geo Method products)
- Ensure toilet seals are functioning properly
- Install an additional vent fan if needed
- Use enzyme-based cleaners rather than chemical ones
- Empty black tanks when 2/3 full, not completely full
Start Your Small RV Adventure
Finding the smallest RV with shower and toilet that fits your lifestyle comes down to honest assessment of your needs. Weekend warriors might thrive with a wet bath in a 16-foot trailer, while full-timers might need the space of a 24-foot rig with a dry bath.
The smartest move? Rent before you buy. Spend a weekend living in your potential future home. Take showers, use that bathroom at 3 AM, try to get ready while your partner sleeps nearby. You’ll learn more in 48 hours than in six months of research.
Small RVs with bathrooms offer great benefits: freedom to explore anywhere, comfort of your own facilities, and fuel efficiency that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re eyeing a nimble Class B campervan for solo adventures or a lightweight travel trailer for family weekends, bathroom-equipped compact RVs let you camp comfortably.
Ready to find your perfect compact rig? Browse Class B RV rentals, explore small travel trailers, or check out fifth-wheel options on Outdoorsy. Your adventure starts with the first night in a rig that proves small doesn’t mean roughing it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small RVs With Shower
Find the answers to other commonly asked questions about small RVs with bathrooms below.
Do all small RVs have bathrooms?
No. Many ultra-compact RVs skip bathrooms to maximize living space and reduce weight. Teardrop campers, conversion vans, and some truck campers don’t include bathroom facilities. However, most small RVs from 16 feet and longer offer at least a wet bath. Always confirm bathroom inclusion when shopping if it’s a must-have for your travel style.
Can you use the RV bathroom while driving?
No. Most states prohibit using toilets in moving vehicles for safety reasons. It’s also unsafe—movement while the RV is driving could result in injury. Plan bathroom stops during travel. If someone needs to go, pull over safely.
How often should you empty RV holding tanks?
Black tanks should be emptied when 2/3 to 3/4 full, typically every 3-5 days for two people with normal use. Gray tanks can go longer—5-7 days—but depend on shower frequency and dish washing. Never let tanks sit full for extended periods, as waste buildup becomes harder to empty and sensors get gunked up.
What’s the best toilet paper for RV bathrooms?
RV-specific toilet paper or septic-safe brands that break down quickly are essential. Scott Rapid-Dissolve, Camco RV toilet paper, and Freedom Living toilet tissue are popular choices. Avoid regular household toilet paper—it doesn’t disintegrate fast enough and can clog tanks and sensors. Do the dissolve test: place a sheet in a jar of water, shake, and watch if it breaks apart within 10 seconds.
Can you shower in a small RV every day?
Yes, but with water management awareness. Using Navy shower techniques (wet, soap, rinse), you can shower daily in most small RVs. An efficient shower uses 2-3 gallons of water, allowing 4-7 showers from a typical 20-gallon fresh water tank. The limiting factor becomes gray water tank capacity and whether you have access to dump stations.
How do you prevent mold in small RV bathrooms?
Ventilation is everything. Run exhaust fans during and after showers, leave the bathroom door open when not in use, and use moisture-absorbing products. Squeegee walls and floors after wet bath showers. Wipe down surfaces with microfiber towels. Consider adding a small dehumidifier in humid climates. Moisture management experts recommend checking corners, seals, and hidden areas monthly for early mold detection.
What’s the difference between a cassette toilet and a regular RV toilet?
Cassette toilets have a removable waste tank that detaches from the outside of the RV, allowing disposal without accessing dump stations. They’re common in Class B campervans and European RVs. Regular RV toilets connect to a permanent black water tank that must be dumped at designated stations. Cassette toilets offer more flexibility for disposal but have smaller capacity (3-5 gallons vs. 10-30 gallons), requiring more frequent emptying.
Can you install a bathroom in an RV that doesn’t have one?
Technically yes, but it’s complex and expensive. You’d need to add water tanks, pumps, drains, venting, and sewage systems—plus find space for fixtures without compromising living areas. DIY conversions can cost $5,000-$15,000 in materials alone, not counting labor or modifications to the RV structure. Most people find it more practical to sell their bathroom-less RV and buy one with built-in facilities.
