9 Compact Trash And Recycling Solutions For Small RVs

Living in a small RV means sharing a few dozen square feet with everything brought inside—including daily waste. Without a deliberate disposal system, a single day’s worth of trash and recycling can quickly overwhelm a compact galley. Choosing the right compact waste solution keeps a mobile home sanitary, organized, and odor-free, no matter how far off the grid the journey goes.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you!

Managing Waste and Recycling in Limited RV Spaces

Every square inch in an RV must earn its keep, and waste management is no exception. Traditional residential trash cans are far too bulky for a camper or van conversion, often blocking narrow walkways or taking up precious under-sink storage. Failing to plan for waste containment leads to cluttered countertops, loose plastic bags, and inevitable pest problems.

A successful mobile waste system relies on immediate separation and smart placement. Mixing wet food scraps with dry recyclables accelerates rot and odor, forcing unnecessary trips to campground dumpsters. By designating specific, compact spots for trash, recyclables, and organic waste, travelers can stretch the time between dump runs.

The goal is to match waste containers to the physical layout of the rig. Vertical walls, the backs of cabinet doors, and even exterior spare tires can serve as prime real estate for trash storage. Choosing the right configuration depends entirely on the rig’s size, travel style, and how often waste disposal sites are accessible.

Hanging Trash Can – Brabantia Sort & Go 3 Liter

               [ Lid ]          +-----------------+          |  Brabantia 3L   |  <-- Hangs on wall          |    Sort & Go    |      or cabinet door          +-----------------+            | Mounting Brk | 

A hanging trash can is designed to reclaim floor space by utilizing vertical surfaces like cabinet doors or walls. In a small kitchen galley, having a small bin at waist height streamlines food prep and keeps wet waste off the counters. The Brabantia Sort & Go 3 Liter performs this role flawlessly by staying tucked away but easily accessible.

This specific bin stands out due to its robust construction and smart mounting bracket. The high-grade plastic is easy to clean, and the lid can be set to stay open during heavy prep work. It features a strong, fold-down carrying handle that makes emptying the bin at a campground dump station simple and mess-free.

• Capacity: 3 Liters (0.8 Gallons)
• Dimensions: 7.1″ x 5.5″ x 7.4″
• Mounting Options: Wall-mount bracket included, or freestanding
• Material: Durable, BPA-free synthetic polymer

Before buying, measure the clearance inside the cabinet if planning to mount it behind a door. The bracket requires drilling small pilot holes, so ensure the cabinet face is thick enough to support the weight of a full bin. It is also wise to source custom-fit liners, though standard small grocery bags can work in a pinch.

This compact bin is ideal for solo van lifers or couples who generate minimal daily waste and empty their bin frequently. It is not suitable for larger families or those who boondock for weeks at a time without access to trash receptacles.

Dual Compartment Can – Joseph Joseph Totem Compact

         +-----------------+          |    Trash 20L    |  <-- Upper unit with          |                 |      odor filter lid          +-----------------+          |  Recyclables   |  <-- Lower slide-out          |    or Gear      |      drawer          +-----------------+ 

Separating recycling from general waste is incredibly difficult when floor space only allows for a single bin. The Joseph Joseph Totem Compact solves this problem by stacking waste compartments vertically rather than horizontally. It occupies the footprint of a single standard trash can while offering two distinct zones for sorting.

This unit features a multi-compartment design with a total capacity of 40 liters, split evenly between an upper bin and a lower drawer. The lid includes an integrated carbon odor filter, which is crucial for neutralizing smells in confined mobile spaces. Its fingerprint-proof stainless steel exterior and sleek profile look right at home in high-end Class A and Class C motorhomes.

• Total Capacity: 40 Liters (10.6 Gallons)
• Configuration: 20L upper compartment, 20L lower drawer
• Dimensions: 11.8″ x 14.4″ x 30″ (with lid closed)
• Odor Control: Replaceable carbon filter compartment in the lid

Because of its 30-inch height, this unit will not fit under standard RV kitchen sinks. It requires a dedicated floor spot, meaning it must be secured during travel to prevent tipping. The custom-fit liners are highly recommended for the upper bin to prevent the bag from slipping down under heavy loads.

This system is perfect for full-time RV couples or small families who prioritize recycling and have a dedicated corner in their galley. It is not recommended for micro-campers or minimalist van builds where vertical space is at an absolute premium.

Collapsible Bin – Camco Pop-Up Utility Container

         +---------------++          |  Camco Pop-Up  || <-- Heavy-duty zipper lid          |               ||          |  (Collapsible)|| <-- Spiral spring wall          |               ||          +---------------++ <-- Ground stakes/grommets 

When boondocking or camping for extended periods, waste accumulates faster than interior bins can handle. A collapsible bin provides high-capacity trash storage that can be deployed at camp and packed away flat while driving. The Camco Pop-Up Utility Container is the industry standard for this exact temporary storage role.

What makes this container superior is its heavy-duty zippered lid, which keeps insects, raccoons, and rain out of the trash. It features a built-in spiral spring that allows it to pop up instantly and collapse down to a mere two inches thick. The base includes a grommeted bottom so it can be staked into the ground on windy days.

• Expanded Size: 15″ diameter x 24″ height
• Collapsed Size: 15″ diameter x 2.5″ height
• Capacity: 30 Gallons
• Material: Heavy-duty, water-resistant polyester

While highly durable, the fabric can hold odors if wet trash leaks inside, so always use a heavy-duty contractor bag as a liner. The zipper is sturdy but should be handled with care when the bin is packed to its absolute limit. It is also lightweight, meaning it will blow away if left empty outside without stakes or a heavy object inside.

This pop-up container is a must-have for families, group campers, and boondockers who spend days parked in one spot. It is not designed for permanent indoor use in small vans or teardrop trailers where floor space is limited even when parked.

Wall Mounted Can – Simplehuman 10 Liter In-Cabinet

         Cabinet Door          +---|-----------------+          |   |  Simplehuman    | <-- Steel hanger hooks          |   |    10 Liter     |     over the door edge          |   +-----------------+          |   | [Plastic Bucket]| <-- Removable inner bin          +---|-----------------+ 

For those who want their trash completely out of sight but still easy to reach, a cabinet-mounted option is ideal. The Simplehuman 10 Liter In-Cabinet can mounts directly to the inside of a cabinet door, swinging out of the way when the door is closed. This layout preserves precious floor space while keeping waste tucked away from pets.

This model features a heavy-duty steel frame that hooks over the top of a cabinet door or mounts permanently with screws. The removable inner bucket is made of durable plastic, making it simple to lift out, empty, and clean. Unlike cheap plastic alternatives, the steel frame does not flex or sag when the bin is full.

• Capacity: 10 Liters (2.6 Gallons)
• Dimensions: 11.7″ x 8.7″ x 14.3″
• Mounting: Over-the-door hook or permanent screw mount
• Frame Material: Grade-A commercial stainless steel

Before installing, confirm that the cabinet hinges can support an extra 10 to 15 pounds of weight when the bin is full. The over-the-door hook leaves a visible metal tab on the outside of the cabinet, which some owners may find aesthetically unappealing. For a cleaner look, use the included wood screws to mount the frame directly to the inside wood face.

This can is perfect for weekend RVers and couples living in medium-sized travel trailers with standard under-sink cabinets. It is not suitable for ultra-thin cabinet doors or frameless cabinets that lack the structural integrity to support hanging weight.

Pull-Out Waste Bin – Rev-A-Shelf Double Pull-Out

         +-----------------------------+          | Cabinet Interior            |          |  +---------+  +---------+   | <-- Two separate          |  | Trash   |  | Recycle |   |     bins on one          |  +---------+  +---------+   |     sliding tray          | [=========================] | <-- Heavy-duty slides          +-----------------------------+ 

A pull-out waste bin offers the ultimate residential-style convenience inside a mobile rig. It hides waste behind a cabinet door while mounting both trash and recycling on a smooth sliding track. The Rev-A-Shelf Double Pull-Out is the premier choice for retrofitting RV cabinets with a durable sliding system.

This system relies on heavy-duty, ball-bearing slides rated for up to 100 pounds, ensuring it can withstand constant road vibrations. The wire frame holding the two plastic bins is constructed of thick, powder-coated steel that prevents twisting. It slides out fully, allowing easy access to the rear bin without having to reach awkwardly into the cabinet.

• Capacity: Two 27-Quart (6.75 Gallon) bins
• Minimum Cabinet Opening: 11.5″ wide x 22″ deep x 19″ high
• Slide Type: Full-extension, ball-bearing precision slides
• Frame: Heavy-gauge plated wire construction

This system requires a significant amount of cabinet depth and height, often requiring rerouting of under-sink plumbing or electrical lines. The installation must be perfectly level and square, or the slides may roll open while driving on winding roads. Adding a magnetic cabinet latch is highly recommended to keep the unit securely closed during travel.

This setup is ideal for full-time RVers and DIYers building out custom vans or school buses with deep galley cabinets. It is not suitable for small camper vans or teardrops that lack deep, open cabinet bays.

Stackable Bins – Suncast 18-Gallon Recycling Bin

         +--------------------+          |   Suncast Bin      | <-- Flat top allows stacking          |  +--------------+  |          |  |  Front Flap  |  | <-- Easy access even          |  +--------------+  |     when stacked          +--------------------+ 

Sorting dry recyclables, laundry, or dry pet food in an RV garage or toy hauler requires heavy-duty, modular storage. Stackable bins allow travelers to build a vertical sorting station without wasting floor space. The Suncast 18-Gallon Recycling Bin is designed specifically to stack securely while keeping the contents accessible.

The standout feature of this bin is its angled front-flap lid, which can stay open on its own or snap shut. This design allows users to toss items inside even when multiple bins are stacked directly on top of each other. Molded from tough, high-density resin, these bins resist cracking and can handle heavy contents like glass bottles or aluminum cans.

• Capacity: 18 Gallons per bin
• Dimensions: 24″ x 18.2″ x 17.2″
• Material: Heavy-duty, weather-resistant resin
• Access Style: Front-loading flap with snap lock

These bins are bulky and require a large footprint, making them unsuitable for small living areas. They must be secured with ratchet straps or bungee cords if stacked in an RV pass-through storage bay or truck bed to prevent shifting during transit. The lids are not completely airtight, so they should not be used for wet, smelly waste.

This product is excellent for toy haulers, fifth wheels with large pass-through storage compartments, or overland vehicles with flatbed setups. It is not suitable for standard Class B camper vans or small travel trailers.

Scrap Bin – Utopia Kitchen Stainless Compost Bin

                 [ Handle ]              +----------------+              | Dual Charcoal  | <-- Lid with integrated              |    Filters     |     carbon pads              +----------------+              | Utopia Kitchen | <-- Seamless stainless              |   1.3 Gallon   |     steel body              +----------------+ 

Wet food scraps are the primary cause of foul odors inside a warm, enclosed RV galley. Keeping these organic scraps separate from general trash prevents the entire rig from smelling like old food. The Utopia Kitchen Stainless Compost Bin is a highly effective countertop scrap bin that completely neutralizes odors.

This 1.3-gallon bin is constructed from a single piece of high-grade stainless steel, meaning it will not rust or leak at the seams. Its lid features a dual-filter system with active charcoal pads that trap odors inside while allowing airflow to prevent anaerobic rot. It is compact enough to sit on a small countertop or tuck into a deep drawer.

• Capacity: 1.3 Gallons
• Dimensions: 11.5″ height x 7.1″ diameter
• Odor Filter: Replaceable active charcoal dual filters
• Material: Rust-resistant, 201 stainless steel

The charcoal filters must be replaced every three to six months to maintain their odor-neutralizing performance. While the stainless steel finish is easy to wash, using compostable liner bags keeps the interior clean and simplifies emptying the scraps.

This scrap bin is highly recommended for eco-conscious RVers who compost or those who simply want to keep wet kitchen scraps separate from dry trash. It is not suitable for travelers who do not cook in their rigs or those with zero counter space.

Trash Bag Holder – Camco Cabinet Door Bag Holder

         +--[ Cabinet Door ]--+          |  +--------------+  | <-- Plastic frame hooks          |  |   Hanger     |  |     over the door          |  +--------------+  |          |      Bag  /       | <-- Uses standard grocery          |     _____/        |     bags or t-shirt bags          +--------------------+ 

For the absolute minimalist, a rigid plastic trash can is simply unnecessary weight and bulk. A simple bag holder turns standard grocery bags into functional trash receptacles using the back of a cabinet door. The Camco Cabinet Door Bag Holder is a cheap, lightweight, and highly functional solution for micro-spaces.

This product consists of a simple plastic frame that hooks over the top of a cabinet door without requiring tools or screws. It holds standard plastic grocery bags open, allowing for hands-free disposal during meal prep or clean-up. When not in use, the hanger can be removed instantly and stored completely flat.

• Compatibility: Works with standard plastic grocery bags
• Installation: Non-damage, slip-on cabinet hook
• Material: Lightweight, high-impact molded plastic
• Storage Profile: Collapses flat for easy storage

Because the bag remains completely open, this system offers zero odor control and does not keep pests away. It relies on thin plastic grocery bags, which are prone to tearing or leaking if filled with heavy or wet items.

This holder is best for weekend campers, minimalists in teardrop trailers, or van lifers who empty their trash multiple times a day. It is not designed for full-time living or for those who need to store trash for more than 24 hours.

Spare Tire Bag – Trasharoo Spare Tire Trash Bag

                     Spare                      Tire                  +----------+                  |  ====/  | <-- Heavy-duty buckled                  | [Trash-  |     straps wrap around tire                  |  aroo]   |                  |  [====]  | <-- Drain grommets at base                  +----------+ 

Boondocking on public lands often means packing out every piece of trash, including heavy, wet waste that you do not want inside your living space. An exterior trash bag keeps the cabin fresh while providing massive storage capacity on the back of the rig. The Trasharoo Spare Tire Trash Bag is the premier choice for off-roaders and boondockers worldwide.

Made of heavy-duty, 900-denier vinyl-coated canvas, the Trasharoo is built to withstand harsh weather, highway speeds, and trail branches. It buckles securely over a rear-mounted spare tire or ladder, keeping trash completely outside the RV. The bottom of the bag features drain grommets, making it easy to hose out if a trash bag breaks inside.

• Capacity: Up to 30 Gallons / 50 lbs of weight
• Material: 900-denier weather-resistant canvas
• Mounting: Heavy-duty wide buckles fit up to a 40″ tire
• Utility: Integrated zipper pockets on the hood for storage

The bag is highly exposed to theft and wildlife, so it should not be used to store food waste overnight in bear country. Constant exposure to intense UV rays will fade the canvas over time, so treating it with a UV protectant spray can extend its lifespan. It also requires a rear-mounted spare tire, tailgate, or ladder for proper mounting.

This bag is an essential piece of gear for boondockers, overland travelers, and off-grid van lifers. It is not necessary for RVers who spend most of their time in commercial RV parks with dumpsters at every campsite.

Controlling RV Trash Odors in Tight Living Spaces

Managing smells in an RV is far more critical than in a traditional home due to the tiny volume of shared air. In a space of 200 square feet or less, a single discarded onion peel can make the entire living area unpleasant within hours. Controlling odors requires a combination of physical barriers, regular maintenance, and chemical neutralizers.

The most effective strategy is separating wet, organic waste from dry trash immediately. Keeping food scraps in a dedicated, airtight container like a stainless steel compost bin prevents moisture from accelerating rot in the main trash can. Additionally, sprinkling baking soda at the bottom of trash cans absorbs residual moisture and neutralizes acidic odors before they rise.

• Empty bins daily regardless of whether they are full to prevent bacteria buildup.
• Use trash cans with integrated charcoal filters to neutralize airborne particles.
• Avoid throwing wet waste directly into the main bin without a plastic liner.
• Wash the interior of trash bins with a dilute bleach or vinegar solution once a week.

Odor Control Method	Best For	Longevity	Cost
Baking Soda	Bottom of bins / moisture absorption	Weekly replacement	Very Low
Charcoal Filters	Lidded trash cans	3–6 Months	Medium
Compost Liners	Wet scrap containment	Single-use	Low

How to Secure Trash Cans While Driving Your RV

An unsecured trash can is a disaster waiting to happen on the road. A sudden stop, sharp turn, or bumpy gravel road can easily tip a full bin, scattering waste across the RV floor. Securing waste containers before pulling out of camp should be a standard part of every RVer’s pre-travel checklist.

The best securing method depends on the location of the bin. For under-sink or in-cabinet trash cans, installing a heavy-duty magnetic latch or child-safety lock on the cabinet door is usually sufficient. For freestanding floor models, securing them with tension rods, heavy-duty Velcro, or flush-mounted tie-down brackets prevents sliding.

       [ Wall / Cabinet ]                |                +---[ Eyelet ]                |                     |      ---( Bungee Cord )                |                    +-------|-------------v-------+        |       |   Trash Can         |        +-------|---------------------+ 

Using a simple bungee cord and wall-mounted eyelets is a cheap and effective way to secure larger cans against a wall. Simply screw two small eyelet screws into a solid wall stud or cabinet frame, then stretch a bungee cord across the front of the trash can. This keeps the bin firmly in place during transit but allows for quick removal once parked at the campsite.

Conclusion

Managing waste in a small RV does not have to be a daily chore or a source of unpleasant odors. By choosing the right combination of compact, specialized bins—like a hanging can for prep work, a dual-compartment bin for recycling, and an exterior bag for boondocking—travelers can keep their space clean and functional. Implementing these simple organization strategies ensures that the journey remains focused on the road ahead rather than the trash left behind.