Using Campervan Features
How to use your campervan's toilet, fresh water, awning, fridge, gas bottle and other features, with links to our detailed guides.
Every campervan is a little different, so ask for a demonstration at pick-up and keep the rental company's instructions or videos handy. This overview covers the main features. Our guides to water, waste and power go into more detail.
How do I empty the toilet?
Toilets vary between vehicles. Some have a cassette toilet and some have a portable toilet, so check which type your vehicle has at pick-up.
Cassette toilet. The waste goes into a removable cassette, which you take out from a lockable compartment on the outside of the vehicle. Add a toilet chemical to break down the waste and control odour. You can usually buy toilet chemicals at the pick-up branch or at caravan parks.
Empty the cassette regularly at an authorised dump point, then add fresh chemical and some water. If your vehicle has wells under the cassette, keep them dry and clean. Some rental companies will ask you to clean or empty a cassette that's returned full, or charge a cleaning fee, so check your rental company's terms. If you'd prefer not to empty the cassette before drop-off, ask at pick-up whether this is an option you can add.
Portable toilet. Some vehicles have a portable toilet instead of a cassette toilet. Follow the instructions supplied with your vehicle for using, emptying and cleaning it, and ask for a demonstration at pick-up.
Our waste management guide explains how often to empty the cassette and the waste water tank, and where to find dump points.
How do I use fresh water?
The freshwater tank supplies the sink and bathroom. For hot water, turn on the water heater. Heating time depends on the heater. Some gas heaters take around 20–25 minutes, so check your vehicle's instructions. If the water pump isn't working, check that the pump switch is on. See water management for filling the tank and other tips.
How do I use the awning?
The pole is in the vehicle. Loosen the wing nuts, unlock the awning and pull it out using the pole. Always pull the awning out fully and lock it. Use the awning for shade only. Don't use it in high winds, rain or storms, or leave it out at night. Secure the awning back in place before driving.
Fridge
How the fridge is powered depends on the type. A compressor fridge can run on the 12V battery. A 3-way fridge may need gas or 240V when you're parked, so follow the instructions supplied with your vehicle. Use the settings in those instructions too, because controls differ between fridge types. Keep food below 5°C; a fridge thermometer is the easiest check. Don't overfill the fridge, so air can circulate, and don't put heavy items in the door.
TV/screen
If your vehicle has a TV, it won't receive a TV signal. It's a media player and screen with a DVD and/or USB option, so bring a few DVDs or a hard drive. Use it when plugged into 240V power at a campsite to avoid draining the house battery.
Swivel seats (some models only)
Some motorhome models have front seats that swivel to face the back using the swivel lever. Return the seats to face forward before driving off.
Gas bottle (LPG bottle)
The gas bottle supplies the stove and, where fitted, the hot water. Bottle sizes and gas equipment differ between campervans. Vans that use gas for cooking, heating and hot water will use it faster than vans with only a gas cooker. Depending on the model, you may be able to swap the bottle when it runs out, or it may need to be refilled. Check with your rental company before you swap a bottle. If you bought a pre-purchased gas option, you don't need to return the campervan with a full gas bottle.
House battery
The house battery runs features such as the fridge, lights and water pump, where fitted. How it charges, and how often you need a powered site, depends on the vehicle, so ask the rental company at pick-up and follow their instructions for your model. The more equipment you use, the faster the battery runs down. Our power management guide lists what works on battery power and what needs a powered site.
Air-conditioning
All campers have air conditioning in the driver's cab. Larger campers with a toilet and shower also have reverse-cycle air conditioning in the living area, which needs a 240V connection at a powered campsite. See heating and cooling.
Next steps
- Vehicle inspection and demonstration: what to ask at pick-up
- Utility failures: what to do if a feature stops working
- Tips for a good night's sleep: setting up the van for the night
Part of During Your Trip in the Campervan Hire Handbook.