The Guide to Sprinter Bathrooms: Showers, Toilets, and Keeping it Simple

When people start dreaming about a custom van, the bathroom is usually the first thing they want to talk about. It makes sense. Having your own private facilities changes the way you travel. You go from scouting for the nearest gas station to having total freedom.

But at The Good Van, we always start with a question: How do you actually want to spend your time? A bathroom adds comfort, but it also adds weight and complexity. Here is how we help our clients navigate the world of showers and toilets without overcomplicating the build.

The Toilet: Choosing the Right System for Your Build

There are plenty of options out there, from traditional cassette systems to high-tech macerators. However, for a premium custom build, we almost always find ourselves recommending a high-quality composting or "separating" toilet.

Why it works: A separator toilet keeps liquids and solids apart, which is the secret to staying odor-free without the need for harsh chemicals. These units are compact, incredibly easy to maintain, and modern designs often resemble high-end furniture rather than a standard plastic bucket.

The practical side: Because these systems don't require complex plumbing or a massive black tank beneath the van, you save a significant amount of space. This flexibility allows you to tuck the toilet inside a custom-built bench seat. When the bench is closed, the facility is completely hidden, maintaining the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic we love.

The Shower: Fixed Wet Baths vs. Outdoor Kits

Deciding on a shower is usually the biggest fork in the road for a Sprinter layout.

The Indoor Wet Bath: If you are planning on full-time living or traveling in colder climates, a fixed indoor shower is a game-changer. We build these as "wet baths," where the entire small room is waterproofed and contains both your shower and your toilet. It feels like a true home.

The Outdoor Shower Kit: For the weekend warriors or those who spend their summers at the beach, an outdoor shower kit is often the smarter move. We can install a high-pressure sprayer at the rear doors. It’s perfect for rinsing off sand, cleaning gear, or taking a quick shower under the stars. By skipping the indoor walls, your van stays open, airy, and much easier to move around in.

Balancing Water and Weight

Every gallon of water you carry adds about eight pounds to your van. If you want a full indoor shower, you are looking at a larger fresh water tank and a dedicated grey water setup.

In a 144" wheelbase, we usually suggest the outdoor shower or a hidden, pull-out system to keep the living area feeling spacious. If you are in a 170", you have the luxury of dedicated square footage for a full bathroom suite.

The "Good Van" Take

A bathroom should serve your lifestyle, not dictate it. If the thought of emptying a traditional tank stresses you out, go with a Trelino and a simple outdoor sprayer. If you want the luxury of a hot morning shower regardless of the weather, let’s build a beautiful, tiled wet bath that feels like a spa.

There is no "right" way to do it. There is only the way that makes you feel most at home on the road.