Best 10 Camping Trash Cans

It’s fair to say that we all have great memories of camping, whether we stayed in a tent or traveled in our RVs. However, it can also be quite stressful when we don’t have the right essentials.

You have to remember a wide range of things from food and drink, to toilet rolls and cooking tools.

While we tend to remember most things, one item often overlooked is a camping trash can.

It’s easy to take for granted that a campsite will have facilities ready for us to throw out waste. However, not every campsite does.

This can leave us in an unpleasant situation. We have to take our rubbish with us. It doesn’t take long for our vans or campers to fill up with rubbish and nasty odors, but don’t worry, we have the solution!

Next time you travel, take a camping trash can with you. We have compiled a list of the best 10 on the market now, giving you plenty of choices and helping you choose the one for you.

Let’s dive straight in shall we!

Best 10 Camping Trash Cans

Fiskars 30 Gallon Kangaroo Gardening Bag

We kick this list off with what may seem like an odd choice but one that actually makes plenty of sense.

The Kangaroo Gardening Bag from Fiskars was primarily designed to be used as a garden waste bag, however, it can double up as an excellent, portable camping trash can.

Considered to be a multipurpose item, thanks to the bag’s compact and lightweight nature, it can be easily stored in the car or campervan as you travel.

You can then use the bag if and when you need it before emptying it at the next opportunity.

Capable of holding up to 30 gallons of trash, this bag isn’t only good for holding your trash. If you don’t need to use the bag as a trash can, you could always keep your laundry in it.

Weighing just 2 lbs and folding down to a very small size, this durable vinyl garden bag makes an awesome affordable camping trash can bag, so why not check it out.

Pros

• Space-saving – Thanks to the collapsibility of this bag, you don’t have to take up any unnecessary space in your vehicle.
• Variety of uses – Use this bag to hold waste or carry laundry.
• Great value for money – This trash can is extremely cheap.

Cons

• Quite large when opened – When fully opened this bag is quite large making it harder to fit in smaller vehicles.

Also available at: Fiskars.com

Bag Buddy Bag Holder

Available in a range of different sizes, the Bag Buddy Bag Holder is a neat trash can that can be used for a variety of different purposes, one of them being a camping trash can.

Holding 39 to 45 gallons of trash this innovative trash can has a very simple, yet effective design that makes collecting your camping trash super easy.

Featuring a unique, heavy-duty metal wireframe, simply throw a plastic bag over the frame and start filling.

When we tested this trash can, we were impressed with just how fast assembly and disassembly were.

The extremely lightweight but durable frame is easily folded away into a small, compact shape, making transport all the easier. We then found it very easy to place a plastic bag on top of the frame.

Even when the plastic bag was full of our trash, removal was nice and easy. All you have to do is lift the bag off the frame and throw it away. Alternatively, you could throw it in the back of your vehicle.

A great item to have, this trash can is well worth having with your other camping essentials.

Pros

• Simple – Setting up or disassembling this trash can couldn’t be any easier.
• Strong – Despite its size and weight, the Bag Buddy Bag Holder is surprisingly sturdy.
• Affordable – This is another very fairly priced trash can.

Cons

• Bags sold separately – You will have to buy the bags for this trash can separately.

Also available at: Walmart.com

Stansport Collapsible Campsite Trash Can

This collapsible campsite trash can from Stansport is another great choice for those times the campsite doesn’t have any trash cans.

Easily tucked away in the trunk of your vehicle, this is a great product to always keep on hand.

Made from durable polyethylene, this trash can is lightweight, weighing just 2 lbs.

Even when the bag is full, you won’t have any trouble moving it as the trash can is also designed with two handy handles to make the bag much more portable.

Set up in seconds, this bag also comes with a fully zippered top. This comes in very handy because it reduces the chance of any odors escaping and prevents flies from hovering around your trash.

Extremely affordable, a lot of people choose this trash can because of its durability, and functionality, but we also found that it offered a lot when it comes to versatility.

You can use this trash can to store other types of waste, shopping, or your dirty laundry.

Pros

• Range of uses – You can use this trash can in several ways.
• Decent size – You can pile your trash into this trash can.
• Great portability – Thanks to the trash cans mesh handles, you can easily move this bag around.

Cons

• Rippable – This bag is easier to rip than others on this list.

Also available at: Stansport.com

Coghlan’s Pop-Up Trash Can

The Coghlan Pop-up Trash Can isn’t too dissimilar to the Fiskar 30 Gallon Kangaroo Gardening Bag.

The only big difference between the two is that this trash can was specifically designed with camping and RV roaming in mind.

Featuring a fully zippered top, spring-loaded pop-up functionality, a compact storage bag, and 33 gallons of space, it is clear to see that Coghlan has put plenty of thought and consideration into designing this bag.

Ideal for anybody traveling with limited space, this very affordable bag is wonderfully portable, taking up little space in your vehicle.

This is great because it means you can always keep the bag in the trunk of your vehicle and use it if and when you need it, which might not be all the time.

We loved using this camping trash can. We were impressed with how small it is when folded, how quickly it pops open, and how strong it stands when full.

Pros

• Compact – The whole trash can fits in one small bag, being kept shut by two strong pieces of Velcro.
• Strong – Even when full this bag stands tall and strong.
• Large capacity – Coghlan’s Pop-Up Trash Can holds up to 30 gallons of trash.

Cons

• Large when full – If you have to take the trash can with you to empty at another site, you might struggle to store it if you have a smaller vehicle.

Stormate Collapsible Garbage Bag Holder

If you don’t need a trash can too large in size and want to save even more space and money when you camp, this collapsible garbage bag holder from Stormate could be perfect for you.

Offering excellent versatility when it comes to traveling, you can use this trash can in your RV, on a tent camping trip, or even keep it on your boat.

If you really wanted to, you could use this bag holder at home too.

The main advantage to the Stormate garbage bag holder is that it provides the perfect combination between capacity, storability, and sturdiness.

Made from durable plastic, the holder is capable of carrying 13-gallon plastic waste bags, features a closable lid, and can fold down to just 14 x 11 x 2 inches in size.

While the strong plastic frame, collapsibility, and capacity are all great, for us, the plastic lid on top of the holder is our favorite feature.

This lid is fantastic because it makes the trash can so much more hygienic. It prevents flies from hovering and keeps nasty odors in.

Pros

• Smaller size – If you only need a small trash can, this one is ideal.
• Versatile – You can use this trash can in a variety of scenarios.
• Great design – The plastic lid keeps smells in and prevents flies from hovering.

Cons

• Small capacity – If you need a large capacity, this bag isn’t for you.

Also available at: Walmart.com

Lusso Gear Spill-Proof Car Trash Can

The next trash can on our list is a little different, but it can come in handy when traveling to and from your camping destination.

Camping can involve some pretty long journeys. The only way we get through most of those journeys is by keeping well-fueled on snacks.

However, this can create quite a mess. It is that mess that Lusso Gear has helped stop.

The Lusso Gear Spill-Proof Car Trash Can is a small black rucksack-like trash can that can hold any rubbish you may have from your journey.

Capable of holding 2.5 gallons of waste you can throw in any snack wrappers, food waste, or used cans of fizzy drink.

Thanks to the bag’s waterproof and leak proof lining, you don’t need to worry about spillages either.

When we looked at the bag, we liked how it can be easily hung on the back of any vehicle seat. With easy access, good storage capacity, and solid design, you can’t really go wrong.

Pros

• Storage pockets included – This trash can comes with space to store other items.
• Great for traveling – The Lusso Gear car trash can is perfect for long journeys with lots of snacks.
• Reliable – This bag is water and leak-proof.

Cons

• Only small – This trash can is only designed for getting from A to B. During your trip, you will want another bag.

Also available at: Lussogear.com

Flings Pop-Up Trash Can

The Flings Pop-Up Trash Can from Trashco is an excellent pop-open trash can that stands by itself.

Made from strong plastic, there isn’t too much to say about this trash can other than it does the job and very well too.

Designed for all occasions, the Flings Pop-Up Trash Can is capable of holding 13 gallons of any kind of waste whether it be your leftover food or empty beer cans.

In fact, when we took a close look at this Trashco trash can we found that it can hold up to 60 bottles or cans. Now that seems like enough for a proper camping party.

With a pretty basic design, this trash can is very easy to use, making it a great choice for camping trips where you’re constantly on the move.

When you’re finished with the trash can simply collapse it down and place it back in your car or campervan.

Pros

• Simple design – This trash can does exactly what it says on the tin.
• Portable – Easily take this trash can everywhere you go.
• Very cheap – You won’t find a camping trash can cheaper than this one.

Cons

• Small capacity – The Flings Pop-Up Trash Can only hold 13 gallons of trash.

Mavoro Car Trash Can

If all you need is a small practical camping trash can that will help keep your campervan or RV clean, the Mavoro Car Trash Can may be the answer.

Made from a durable, washable material, this cylindrical-shaped trash can looks surprisingly stylish.

With a neat fabric design and strong black color, this trash can is a great product to have around your RV and campervan.

Offering great practicality in a small bag, you can easily use the trash can to get rid of food waste, cans, bottles, and any other small camping trash.

With dimensions of just 5.9 x 5.9 x 7.4 inches, the beauty of this trash can is that it won’t take up too much room in your camping space and can also be used for other things.

If you don’t need a trash can for your next camping trip, you could always use the bag to store something else.

When washed, we found it made a good place to store our snacks. Complete with a waterproof and leak-proof lid, we highly recommend checking this small trash can out.

Pros

• Stylish – It may not matter, but this trash can looks great.
• Very affordable – Another very cheap trash can.
• Versatile – Also use the bag as a storage bag.

Cons

• Faulty waterproof seal – Some users have reported a faulty waterproof seal.

Also available at: Walmart.com

BBTO 2 Piece Car Trash Can

Sometimes we need more than one trash can when we camp. We might want one in each room or one outside and one in. The 2 piece car trash can set from BBTO makes this possible.

Combining two sizes of the trash can, one 6 x 8 inches, and one 12 x 16 inches, BBTO has given us the chance to use two collapsible trash cans at once.

Only small in size, these black collapsible polyester bags can be placed on the floor, hung on the back of a seat, or simply kept next to your bed, it’s totally up to you.

Taking up little space, these bags are lined with steel wire. This wire is strong and durable, reusable, lightweight, and washable making both cans extremely convenient to use.

Offering plenty of possibilities, we found that these bags work really well when hung on the back of a car seat. This puts them out of the way, so they don’t interfere with our trip.

The hook and loop fastener makes hanging the bags hassle-free and easy.

Pros

• 2 for 1 – For the same price we pay for one trash can, you get two.
• Use in multiple places – Save yourself time by leaving both trash cans in different places.
• Easily hung – Hang these trash cans easily with the looped fastener.

Cons

• Only small – Both trash cans are only small.

Also available at: Stansport

Camp Chef Collapsible Trash Can

The final camping trash can on our list is better suited to larger families who are going to have more trash.

A much larger, yet still collapsible trash can, the Camp Chef trash can is capable of holding up to 35 gallons of trash. While this should be more than enough, the trash can also hold larger bags if necessary.

Like most trash cans on this list, this can has a pop-up design that works effectively thanks to the spring-loaded mechanism. Simply pop the bag open and shut it back down when you’ve finished.

To make your life even easier, Camp Chef has designed this bag with two handles.

This makes emptying or moving the trash can a lot easier. Thanks to its durability, the trash won’t fall out the bottom either when you lift it.

We were most impressed with the metal coils built into this trash can. These coils help secure the can in place, ensuring it doesn’t fall over and still stands tall when full.

Pros

• Large capacity – You can fit at least 35 gallons of trash in this bag.
• Solid – This trash can has a sturdy design.
• Reasonable price – This bag represents great value for money.

Cons

• Could be too big – You might not need a trash can this big.

Also available at: Trailkitchens.com 

Buyer’s Guide

Before you buy a camping trash can, there are a few things you need to think about. Here are some of those factors.

Portability

Arguably the most important thing to consider when buying a camping trash can is how portable it is.

You could be traveling hundreds upon thousands of miles with all your camping essentials, so you need to find a trash can that folds up small enough to not take up too much space.

We recommend looking for a collapsible or foldable trash can that has spring-loaded functionality.

That way you can fold the trash can down and tuck it away in your vehicle.

Durable

You’ll need a trash can that’s built to last. Sadly, not every camping trash can on the market is.

With that in mind, you should be careful when searching the market. Only look out for materials you know will last. These could include strong polyester fabrics, sturdy metals, or reliable plastics.

You should also look out for waterproof and rust-resistant features. Luckily for you, every trash can on our list is very durable.

Washable

There is a very high chance that you’ll be using your trash can again and again. Therefore, it needs to be washable. If a camping trash can isn’t washable, it will quickly begin to smell, rendering it useless.

Ensuring the trash can you buy is washable is a must. This way, you can wash it out and use it over and over again, even using it for other things.

You can see how washable a trash can is by reading the product description where it will state whether the product can be washed or not.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Trash Cans Smell?

Trash cans generally start to smell as a result of the chemicals and gasses released from decomposing food. The more food starts to decompose, the more it will start to smell.

This odor can be very unpleasant, so you should always try to throw the food out first.

Is A Camping Trash Can Worth It?

Yes, a camping trash can is definitely worth it. Not every campsite has trash cans so for starters a portable trash can will save you in tricky situations.

On the other hand, a camping trash can comes in handy when it comes to enjoying your trip.

Simply fill the can up before taking it to the campsites trash cans. That way you don’t have to trek back and forth to the trash cans all day.

Where Should I Keep My Trash Can?

Most people like to keep their camping trash can alongside their camping area or RV.

This is usually because it keeps any smells or odors away from where they are sleeping and also ensures their sleeping area stays clean.

Other people like to keep smaller trash cans in their RV or car so that they can be used when traveling or through the night.

Ultimately though, this comes down to your own personal preference.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, that concludes our article looking at the best camping trash cans.

A camping trash can comes in super handy when a campsite has limited to no trash cans or when you need somewhere to store clothes, toys, and dirty laundry.

Hopefully, now you have our list you can start narrowing down the options available until you find a camping trash can that suits your needs and requirements best.

We’ve given you a great head start, so it should be a lot easier.