Dealing with potty issues...

[RoamerRV428]

My thoughts also is if this is a more regular situation then just a 'bout with the D' every blue moon or so then maybe you should consider a more chemical type compost type toilet to bring. I mean would that be an option? That way you have 'the system' set in play and ready to handle your needs. Just spewing out a thought...spewing away...just spewing it all over....just spewing it up and down and all around

[SheketEchad]

I agree with Qxxx here. Due to your existing medical condition, you might wish to save yourself anxiety and distress by planning a better method based on that. I've seen a Loveo Dry Flush that might work for someone in your situation - although it's a heckuva lot more expensive than a bucket and hamster bedding/coir/peat But it can also go like two weeks I think, before it needs to be emptied and has no chemicals or water required. I think it also runs on multiple types of power - rechargeable batter, a/c and 12 v. (let me go find a link)

It's Laveo - https://dry-flush.com/features/

Not sure if that would suit your space requirements, but it is another option.

[badmotorscooter]

Thanks for the feedback everyone. I guess I should have been more forthcoming in my initial post, but you know...

[ckelly78z]

Always make sure that you properly prepare your "bucket" for the next encounter, with a taped on new bag/bags as soon as you are finished with the previous "transaction". To keep the initial smell down, you could through a handfull of kitty litter, or sawdust/chips in the bag before use, and then afterwards also.

If you are having problems with making that kind of mess, you may want to examine your diet, and stay away from trigger foods.

[Qxxx]

As others have mentioned, for best results you "always" need to put some kitty litter in the bag "first". And usually some more afterwards.

[badmotorscooter]

Yes, kitty litter first.

I have identified some foods that make my symptoms worse and avoid them.

[KPTravels]

Why not try some cheap solutions while you're still at home (assuming that's where you are now). Start with a bucket and bags and foam padding. Have some wood chips around as well as kitty litter. Do experiments while you have "home court" advantage.

Also, in one video of Bob's he showed a lid that you can buy to screw on top of a 5 gallon bucket that makes it easier to seal it tight, but that might take up too much space.

I've often wondered about a really small diaper pail and your question inspired a google search for "portable diaper pail" and I found this:
https://www.amazon.com/Munchkin-Portable...07P3MZBLP/

[Qxxx]

"Also, in one video of Bob's he showed a lid that you can buy to screw on top of a 5 gallon bucket that makes it easier to seal it tight, but that might take up too much space".

FYI, I use a 2-gallon paint bucket from Lowes with one of those cheap plastic seats on top. The 5-gal bucket takes up too much space in my van. I put the 2-gal bucket on one of those plastic fitness steps to raise it to a comfortable level. I originally had one of the folding plastic steps you see in all the RV youtubers videos, but it broke.

https://www.amazon.com/Giantex-Aerobic-S...B019I9ZMUG

[Kaylee]

As others have mentioned, for best results you "always" need to put some kitty litter in the bag "first". And usually some more afterwards.

... and cinnamon, before and/or after.

For the record, I've had four bouts of diarrhea while living in my van.
First time was while urban/Walmart boondocking, so used W's washroom, but after the third trip, punked out and took a Loperamide which definitely helped (Disclaimer: carefully research Loperamide before using, as there are many valid reasons not to use it).

All other times were while I was in da Forest and using da Bucket.
Yes, messy, but as I've mentioned, I do pre-pack a few poop bags, and tie them off immediately after use so 2 of the 3 non-urban occurrences were readily manageable.
The third (most recent) there was spillage into the bucket, which was the only "significant" problem I've had (fortunately, it occurred near the end of a stretch... and cinnamon really, really, REALLY helped).

As others (and the OP) have said, definitely investigate this further, before Launching.
If at all possible, practice using TheBucket/whatever, and transition your diet well in advance.
I suspect a lot of folks do experience problems, but simply don't admit it.
When one's life is suddenly shifted upside down-ish, it would be highly unusual if there weren't any physical issues.


Qxxx:
Thanks for one more data point against watching YT.
Dumb question: did you try dual-purposing the 5-gallon bucket as a chair/seat?
I use mine mainly as my "kitchen" chair.
To be honest, I'm not using it as a bucket, because the lid is kinda stuck on (will be tackling that with my prybar, soon-ish).
I use a 2-gallon bucket for pooping, but plan to store it inside the 5 gallon bucket, once I've sorted that out.

[Qxxx]

I have enough floor space in my van that I use a folding deck chair to sit on, and to work at the computer desk. Put my bed pillow on the chair for padding. Old bones and bad hip need more comfort.