7 Best Disposable Emergency Urinals for Car Kits
Stuck in traffic? Explore our top 7 disposable emergency urinals. Learn about leak-proof designs and compact options to keep your car kit ready for anything.
Stuck in gridlock or navigating a long road trip with children, the sudden need for a restroom can quickly turn a peaceful drive into a stressful ordeal. Having a reliable emergency urinal in your glove box or trunk provides peace of mind that no service station is nearby. These simple tools are essential additions to any vehicle safety kit, ensuring you are prepared for the unexpected.
TravelJohn Disposable Urinal: Best Overall Choice
When you are miles from the nearest rest stop, the TravelJohn is the gold standard for convenience. It features a unique polymer pouch that instantly turns liquid into an odorless, spill-proof gel.
This design is particularly helpful for families with young children who cannot wait for the next exit. Because it is compact and lightweight, you can easily slide a few packs into the side door pocket of your car without taking up valuable space.
The bottom line is that the TravelJohn offers the best balance of speed and cleanliness. It is the most practical choice for those who want a "use and toss" solution that minimizes mess.
Cleanwaste WAG Bag: Best for Solid Waste Needs
Sometimes a simple liquid-only urinal isn’t enough, especially during extended roadside emergencies where you might be stranded for hours. The Cleanwaste WAG Bag is designed to handle both liquid and solid waste, making it a true portable toilet system.
Each bag includes a gelling agent and a deodorizer, keeping your vehicle smelling fresh even after use. It is a slightly larger kit than a standard urinal, but for families or those traveling in remote areas, the added capability is worth the extra storage footprint.
Consider this your "worst-case scenario" insurance policy. It is slightly more expensive than basic pouches, but it provides a level of sanitation and dignity that smaller devices simply cannot match.
GoGirl Female Urination Device: Best for Women
For many women, the physical design of standard urinals can be cumbersome or prone to leakage. The GoGirl is a reusable, medical-grade silicone funnel that allows women to urinate while standing, which is a game-changer for roadside privacy.
Because it is made of flexible silicone, it folds down into a tiny storage tube that fits easily in a purse or center console. While it requires a bit of practice to use comfortably, it is an incredibly reliable tool once you have mastered the technique.
Keep in mind that you will need a separate container or a disposable bag to catch the liquid if you are inside a vehicle. It is a fantastic, long-term investment for frequent travelers who value durability over a single-use disposable product.
Reliance Products Go-Girl: Reliable Travel Option
If you are looking for a brand that emphasizes sturdy construction, the Reliance Products line is a staple in the camping and emergency preparedness world. Their travel options are designed to be intuitive, ensuring that you aren’t fumbling with complex parts during a stressful moment.
These devices are particularly well-suited for older adults or those with mobility issues who find traditional squatting difficult. They are built to last, meaning you won’t have to worry about the device collapsing or failing when you need it most.
For the price, you get a high level of reliability that cheaper, flimsy alternatives often lack. It is a solid, middle-of-the-road choice that prioritizes function above all else.
Prime Products Disposable Urinal: Best Value Pack
If you have a large family or frequently take long road trips, buying individual units can become expensive. Prime Products offers multi-packs that allow you to stock every vehicle in your household without breaking the bank.
These are straightforward, no-frills bags that get the job done efficiently. While they may lack the high-end gelling technology of more expensive brands, they are perfectly adequate for standard emergency use.
Think of these as the "bulk buy" option for your garage or trunk. They are ideal for keeping in the spare tire well, ensuring you always have a backup on hand for every passenger.
Shewee Extreme Urination Funnel: Best for Hiking
While designed primarily for outdoor enthusiasts, the Shewee Extreme is excellent for car travelers who also enjoy hiking or camping. Its rigid construction makes it very easy to direct, reducing the risk of splashes or spills.
The "Extreme" version comes with an extension pipe, which is helpful if you are wearing bulky winter clothing or multiple layers. It is a specialized tool, but it offers a level of precision that makes it a favorite for those who prioritize control.
If you are a frequent traveler who also spends time in the great outdoors, this dual-purpose tool is a smart buy. It is compact enough to stow anywhere and durable enough to last for years.
Restop 2 Disposable Toilet: Best Leakproof Bag
When it comes to containment, the Restop 2 is widely considered the most secure option on the market. It utilizes a "bag-in-bag" design that ensures the waste is double-sealed, providing extra confidence against potential leaks in your vehicle.
This is the preferred choice for people who are worried about odors or spills in a small, enclosed car cabin. The sealing mechanism is robust, making it easy to dispose of the bag at a gas station or home trash can without any lingering concerns.
While it is priced at a premium, the peace of mind regarding cleanliness is unmatched. It is an excellent choice for those who value a mess-free experience above all other factors.
Essential Factors When Choosing Travel Urinals
When selecting an emergency urinal, start by considering your primary passenger list. If you are mostly traveling alone, a simple funnel might suffice, but families with children should prioritize high-capacity, spill-proof bags.
Space is another major constraint for most homeowners. Always measure your glove box, center console, and trunk storage areas before committing to a bulky kit; you want these items accessible, not buried under luggage.
Finally, balance the "disposable vs. reusable" trade-off. Reusables save money over time but require cleaning, while disposables are convenient but contribute to ongoing costs. Choose the option that fits your personal comfort level with maintenance.
How to Store Emergency Urinals in Your Vehicle
To ensure these items are actually useful, they must be stored where they can be reached in seconds. Keep at least one unit in the glove box or the driver-side door pocket for immediate access during an emergency.
For bulkier kits like the WAG bags, utilize the storage compartments in your trunk or under the floor mats. Avoid leaving them in direct, intense sunlight for months at a time, as extreme heat can degrade the plastic materials over several years.
Periodically check your kits during your seasonal car maintenance routine. If a bag looks punctured or a seal appears compromised, replace it immediately to avoid a messy surprise when you least expect it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Urinals
Are these devices sanitary to keep in the car? Yes, provided they are stored in their original, sealed packaging. Most modern emergency urinals are designed to be odor-proof and leak-resistant, so they will not affect your vehicle’s interior environment.
Can children use these easily? Most disposable bags are easy for children to use with adult supervision. For younger kids, practice the process at home once so they are familiar with how the bag opens and seals before you are on the side of a busy highway.
What should I do with the waste after use? Always dispose of the bags in a proper trash receptacle at the next available rest stop or gas station. Never discard these items in nature, as they are not biodegradable and should be treated as household waste.
Investing in a simple emergency urinal is one of the most practical steps you can take to improve your family’s travel experience. By choosing the right tool for your specific needs, you transform a potential roadside crisis into a minor, manageable inconvenience. Keep your kit stocked, stay prepared, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being ready for anything.
