You can’t wait to start your van life: touring the country, working in a new place every day, and seeing the stars in the sky through your sunroof. However, one thing that might become a con rather than a benefit has occurred to you: you may miss your bathtub and flushing toilet. Never fear, van lifer, because there are vans with built-in bathrooms!
A camper van with a bathroom will be more expensive than one without, depending on the other features of this van, and will usually cost over $100,000 new. However, this depends on the brand and numerous other factors. Generally, camper vans with bathrooms can range from $50,000 to $200,000.
We’ll break down the costs associated with camper vans and their bathrooms and give you five examples of them with bathrooms already built in. Additionally, we’ll briefly give you other restroom options and even a little insight into DIY bathroom conversions.
How Much Is a Camper Van With a Bathroom?
As you may expect, a camper van with a bathroom will be a bit more expensive than a camper van without. This is for multiple reasons, but the most obvious is the added technical needs of these vans. They require plumbing, water hook-ups, and a way to eliminate waste.
Generally, a camper van with a bathroom can be anywhere from $50,000 to $220,000. This will depend on the luxury you require and what you need in your bathroom. Some van lifers want the luxury of a bathtub, while others are fine with a standard shower. It will also depend on whether you buy your RV camper van, new or used.
You’ll find some vans without bathrooms more expensive than vans with them, and vice versa, just based on their other accessories. For this reason, it’s essential to make a list beyond bathrooms that includes precisely what you want in your camper van.
And, for the record, we’re talking about camper vans here. Recreational Vehicles–aka larger RVs–will likely already have a bathroom on board at the time of purchase.
Van conversions are pretty popular right now, and as far as vans go, there usually isn’t a bathroom. Many people convert their vans into camper vans and add a bathroom. We’ll talk about that later, but first, let’s talk about our top five camper vans with bathrooms. Our list includes the following:
Average Cost | Inclusions | Van Length | |
Thor Tranquility | $170,000+ | Shower, Cassette Toilet | 19’-8” |
Storyteller Overland (Classic Mode) | $150,000+ | Halo Interior Shower System Exterior Shower Portable Toilet Hot Water Re-circulation System | 20’ |
Tiffin GH1 | $190,000+ | 24″ x 36″ (609.6 x 914.4 mm) Wet Bath with Handheld Shower Head, Cassette Toilet | 19’6” |
Roadtrek Zion | $180,000+ | Marine Toilet, Sink, Shower | 20’9” |
Winnebago Solis 59PX | $150,000+ | Shower, Cassette Toilet | 21′ |
These five vans span many different van brands, including Tranquility, Storyteller Overland, Winnebago, Tiffin, and Roadtrek. You may find something else more suited to your needs or price point within these different brands.
If you’re thinking about building your own van with a bathroom, read the article I wrote.
For now, though, these have made our list because their pros tend to outweigh their cons, depending on your budget!
1. Thor Tranquility
The Thor Tranquility 2023 has an MSRP of $172,060, but expect to pay more for some extra features. You may be able to find a used model for less, but if you go that route, make sure to get an inspection first!
The Thor Tranquility has two model options, the 19L and the 19P. Both models come with a wet bath and the bathrooms are similar.
The toilet is a 5-gallon cassette-style toilet. The advantage of these types of toilets is that you don’t have to go to a dump station to empty them. The cassette is removable and can be emptied into any public toilet. If you’d like to know more about cassette toilets, check out this article I wrote.
The bathroom in both models is very compact. You may have to sit on the toilet to shower if you’re tall. While using the toilet, you may not be able to close the door. However, the shower curtain is adequate for privacy.
The drop-down sink is one of the unique features that make this camper van compact. Drop the sink down once you use the toilet to wash your hands. A small vent allows the bathroom to be heated. A real treat when you’re taking a shower!
Some of the features of the Thor Tranquility include:
- All-terrain tires
- Power pack
- Solar Charging System
- Apple Carplay & Android Auto
- Leather chairs
Professional Skier Kalen Thorien has this model. Check out this video to see how she lives off-grid:
Like most vans, you can find this at your local dealership.
Pros of Thor Tranquility
For those looking for your first van, the Thor Tranquility is wildly user-friendly and has everything you’ll need to cruise in style and comfort. Additionally, those worried about using rest stops or finding a shower can breathe easily knowing there’s a shower in the van.
Cons of Thor Tranquility
Depending on your motivations for engaging in van life, you may not want to spend over $100,000 on an RV or van. The Thor Tranquility, is the second most expensive RV on our list. While the van is compact, the bathroom is also small.
2. Storyteller Overland
The Storyteller Overland costs $181,321 for the 2025 Classic Mode. Add-ons: This is for their Classic Mode vehicle from 2025, and an older model may have lower prices (but may not have all the features of 2023).
The bathroom is top-notch, though. It includes a halo interior shower system, exterior shower (who doesn’t want to shower beneath the stars!?), portable toilet, and hot water recirculation system.
Additionally, the control panel is labeled for easy use. It’s also extremely stylish! With all those features, you will surely be showering and relieving yourself in comfort!
These aren’t the only benefits of a Storyteller Overland, though. Some of the features of the Overland include:
- Portable cooktop
- Portable toilet (so convenient for camping!)
- Removable dinette table
- Storage for bikes
- Bed/Convertible work surface
- Dimmable lights
Check your local dealership to find the Storyteller Overland!
Pros of the Storyteller Overland
The Storyteller Overland is perfect for those who don’t want to do any DIY or design in their vehicle. It has everything you need–bathroom, kitchen, bed, workspace, garage, lounge…I mean, it has it all!
I also love that so many things in this van are removable/portable. It’s hard to store gear in your van when everything is so packed tight, and having the option to bring the stove or toilet with you if you’re going camping can make a huge difference.
Cons of the Storyteller Overland
The Storyteller Overland is…expensive. Just like most vans on the list. I’ll reiterate again that if you want to live in a van to save money or as an alternative to buying a house, this may not hit the mark for you. Think long and hard about whether or not this is the lifestyle you want to commit to!
3. Tiffin GH1
Not to be outdone, the Tiffin GH1 will get you off-road in style.
The list price of the Tiffin GH1 is $193,874, making it the most expensive van on our list.
Depending on the type of luxury you require, it may be worth it. This bathroom has a 24” x 36” (609.6 x 914.4 mm) shower, a toilet platform, and a retractable shower screen.
Some of the features of this include:
- Off-Road capability
- 4-wheel ABS brakes
- Solar
- Starlink System
- Active brake assist
- Luggage rack
- Side ladder
- Power Patio Awning
- Microwave and fridge
- LED lighting
- Cabinets for storage
As you can see, this van has a lot of luxurious extras!
Pros of the Tiffin GH1
Tiffin vehicles typically get some great reviews and are also relatively small. This makes them easier to drive and easier to park. Additionally, the GH1 has tons of storage space, and some extra features make it seem larger.
Cons of the Tiffin GH1
This model is the most expensive one on our list! This doesn’t necessarily have to be a con, though. The off-road durability (and the light bars!) make it perfect for play and heavy-duty work. With all the awesome accessories on this Tiffin, you get what you pay for.
4. Roadtrek Zion
The list price of the Roadtrek Zion is between $160,000-$170,000, depending on where you find it and what features you want to add.
The bathroom on this van includes:
- Marine toilet
- Sink
- Shower
- Outdoor shower
It’s also the second largest van on our list, which gives you more space for storage or additions.
Pros of the Roadtrek Zion
This is one of the least expensive vans on our list! So if a bathroom and some luxury are important to you, but so is your budget, this may be a great choice.
The color options are also pretty unique, and you don’t see this kind of customization available on many vans from the dealership. You can get it in vintage blue, sandstone, or mint green to stray from the normal black, white, or gray.
Cons of the Roadtrek Zion
Though less expensive, this van is also pretty large. Depending on how you like to drive, this may be a good or bad thing. For some, a larger van means more difficulty driving and parking. It also doesn’t have the glam features of the other vans on this list.
5. Winnebago Solis
Now, to round out our list, a classic. The Winnebago!
Modern-day Winnebago’s can go the extra mile regarding van life. The 2023 Winnebago Solis is usually between $150,000-$160,000.
With the lowest price on our list, you don’t get all of the ultra-modern luxuries of the other vans, but you get what you need. The bathroom in this model includes a shower and a toilet.
There are some other cool features, too. The Winnebago Solis also has the following:
- Rooftop extension
- Power locks for safety
- Multiple colors
Also, if you’re tight on budget, check out my curated list of the best affordable camper vans that offer a bang for the buck. These vans are light on your pocket and bring as many features as possible, so you don’t feel like you’re losing out. [Buying a Camper Van on a Budget? _# Affordable Options]
Pros of the Winnebago Solis
This is the least expensive model on our list, but it’s no fuss. You get what you need: a bathroom, a bedroom, and a kitchen. Winnebago has also been around forever, so you know that dealerships will be familiar.
Cons of the Winnebago
Again, this is the largest van on the list. Pick your poison, though! If you want a larger van, this is a benefit. However, if you want something smaller, this isn’t going to be your van.
Considerations for Camper Vans With Bathroom
So, you’re willing to put in the extra cash for the camper with a bathroom. It’s only upfront costs, right?
Well…not exactly.
There are some other considerations you need to add to your bill when considering a bathroom, including the plumbing costs (which are inevitable at one point or another, no matter how luxurious the vehicle) and the time it may take you to release waste and refill water (time is money when you’re on the road!).
Make sure to add both of these things to your docket when weighing the pros and cons of using a bathroom on the road or having it in your van.
How To Survive Without a Bathroom
Maybe you’ve read through all of these costs and have decided spending the extra costs on a bathroom isn’t for you…are there other options?
Yes! If you want to be a part of the campervan lifestyle but can’t afford a bathroom or a conversion right now, that’s okay.
Many people survive without bathrooms by:
- Buying a gym membership. If you have a gym membership, especially one with locations across the US that you can use, you’ll be able to utilize the showers and bathrooms at any of their locations.
- Visiting local rec centers. Local recreation centers typically have showers and bathrooms for after or before swimming pool use, but some use these for travel!
- Truck stops. Truckers are on the road for long hours (and weeks even!) without sometimes staying in a place with a bathroom or shower. They’ll use truck stop bathrooms and showers, which usually have a small fee. If you’re a solo female traveler, I’d caution against this!
- Using restrooms at restaurants, gas stations, etc. You may not be able to shower at a local fast-food joint. Still, you can usually relieve yourself without any trouble!
There are also some chain stores and restaurants that are usually pretty friendly to travelers. For example, Cracker Barrel and Walmart allow campers, RVs, and vans to park for free in their lots. However, I always advise going in to check to make sure this is okay, just in case!
Adding a Bathroom to Your Van
Of course, you don’t need to have a van with a bathroom to have a bathroom in your van. You can add one!
If you already have a van and aren’t afraid of a little work and some high costs (though much lower than buying a new one), you can convert your van into one with a bathroom.
This isn’t a quick process by any means. You’ll need to figure out plumbing, waste removal, and hook up a water tank for a toilet and shower, depending on how fancy you want to get. There are a lot of options, though!
Final Thoughts
Life is more comfortable when you know where your next bathroom break will be–especially if it’s a few feet away in your van! Some vans come with things already hooked up! New-to-van-life explorers might want to consider the essentialness of an in-van bathroom before purchasing their van.
However, if you already have a van and aren’t looking to sell, you can definitely add a bathroom via design and hard work. In the meantime, nothing wrong with utilizing a gym membership or becoming a frequent visitor at local recreation centers!