Antisocial Tourist

Traveling to a new destination comes with a lot of planning: how to get around, how much money to bring, how to communicate, how to haggle… But there’s one thing most travelers forget to think about until it’s too late — how the toilet works.

It’s a strange and honestly nerve-wracking moment when you walk into a restroom, ready to go, only to realize you have no idea how to use the facilities. If you haven’t traveled internationally before, you’ll quickly learn that basic tasks we take for granted — like eating, bathing, and yes, going to the bathroom — can suddenly become challenging in unfamiliar surroundings.

If you’re ready to learn how to navigate the many different types of toilets around the world, keep reading so you can be prepared and handle bathroom situations wherever your travels take you!

RELATED POST:
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A Traveler’s Guide to Toilets Around the World

From high-tech bidets to simple pit latrines, knowing what to expect and how to use them can make your journey more comfortable and stress-free. So let’s dive right into the world of toilets!

Western Flush Toilet

The standard Western flush toilet is what most people in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and parts of Europe are used to. This type of toilet has a bowl filled with water and a seat to sit on. Toilet paper is used for cleaning and then discarded into the bowl. After use, you flush it using a lever or button, and water washes away the waste. Some flush toilets have automatic sensors that will prompt the toilet to flush itself once you’re done using it.

Where You’ll Find Flush Toilets:

North America (U.S., Canada, and Mexico)
Caribbean
Europe (especially Western Europe)
Australia and New Zealand
Many urban areas worldwide, specifically areas with higher-end hotels and airports in developing countries.

How to Use Flush Toilets:

STEP 1 — Sit down on the seat for use.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, use toilet paper to clean yourself.

STEP 3 — Flush the toilet paper down the toilet by pushing down the handle or button. If the toilet is automatic, it should flush itself once you walk away.

📣IMPORTANT — In some countries, toilet paper isn’t flushed due to plumbing limitations. Instead, it is disposed of in a designated bin next to the toilet. You’ll usually find a sign indicating this practice, so be sure to check before disposing of toilet paper.

Practical Tips:

Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet.
Always check for toilet paper before using the facilities because it’s common for public restrooms to run out. We recommend keeping a pack of tissues on you at all times when traveling, in case you need them while using the bathroom.
In public restrooms, use a few pieces of toilet paper to cover the seat before sitting down, to avoid germs. Use paper towel or tissue to touch the flush handle and door when exiting, also to avoid germs.

Bidet Toilets

Bidets are common in Europe (especially France, Italy, and Spain), Japan, and parts of South America. They are toilets with a built-in water spray, which is used to clean yourself, in lieu of toilet paper. Bidets will still be flushed after use. There are several types of bidets you may encounter, so we’ll break them down below before covering more of the basics.

Different Types of Bidets

1. Standalone Bidet

Higher-end hotels typically have standalone bidets, like in the picture above. It’s a separate plumbing fixture, typically placed next to a flush toilet. After you use the toilet, you’ll reach over and turn the bidet’s water on (most are temperature-controlled). Next, you’ll move over to the bidet and straddle it, facing toward or away from the controls (depending on preference), and use the water jet to clean yourself.

Common Locations: Europe, particularly in France, Italy, and Spain. Many five-star hotels throughout Europe and the Middle East will also have standalone bidets.

2. Built-In Bidet

Built-in bidets will have a water jet built-in under the seat, with a control panel either attached to the seat or as a separate remote. After using the toilet, you’ll press a button on the control panel to activate the bidet function. Water sprays from a nozzle beneath the seat to clean you. Most modern built-in bidets come with heating and drying functions too, but you may need to use toilet paper or a towel to dry yourself if using an older-style bidet.

Common Locations: Japan, South Korea, and modern bathrooms in many countries.

3. Over-the-Rim Bidet

Over-the-rim bidets fit over the rim of a toilet bowl, under the seat, as a separate attachment. They work similarly to built-in bidets, but the process is more manual. Instead of a control panel, you’ll find a faucet handle that will turn the water on and off and adjust the temperature.

Common Locations: Older European homes.

4. Bidet Attachment

A bidet attachment works just like a built-in bidet but it can be added to any existing toilet. They are typically installed under the top seat and connected to the existing plumbing. They come with a simple control panel that will hang off the side of the bowl. Bidet attachments are often more affordable than full bidet toilets but they don’t come with the extra bells and whistles, like heating and drying.

Common Locations: Modern homes and hotels where space is limited

5. Bidet Toilet Seat

Instead of an attachment that fits beneath the toilet seat, you may encounter a bidet toilet seat, which fully replaces the existing seat. These seats have built-in bidet functions and are installed similarly to a bidet attachment. However, they are typically more advanced, with features like heated seats, air drying, built-in lighting, and other high-tech options.

Common Locations: Japan, modern homes, hotels where space is limited

6. Handheld Bidet (Bidet Spray or Shattaf)

The handheld bidet (sometimes called a shattaf) is a handheld nozzle connected to the toilet’s plumbing, similar to a kitchen sink sprayer. After using the toilet, you’ll pick up the handheld sprayer and manually aim it at the area to be cleaned while pressing the lever to release the water.

You will find these handheld sprayers next to standard flush toilets in many parts of the world, to accommodate travelers who prefer the water spray over toilet paper. Handheld bidet sprayers are also used to clean the toilet and other things, including pets.

Common Locations: Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and some parts of Europe.

7. Travel Bidet

A travel bidet is a portable, bottle-like device designed for personal use while traveling. It works by squeezing water from a small bottle with a nozzle. You’ll simply fill the bottle with water and squeeze it to release a stream for cleaning after using the toilet. You can also find electronic travel bidets.

Common Locations: Travelers often carry these in areas without bidet access.

Where You’ll Find Bidets:

Western Europe (France, Italy, Spain)
Japan (many public restrooms and homes)
South America (especially in Argentina and Brazil)

How to Use a Standalone Bidet:

STEP 1 — Sit down on the toilet (not the bidet) for use.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, reach over and turn the bidet’s water on. Adjust the water to temperature.

STEP 3 — Move from the toilet over to the bidet. Straddle it facing either way (depending on preference) and use the water to clean yourself.

STEP 4 — Move back over to the toilet. Use a towel or toilet paper to dry.

STEP 5 — Flush the toilet (not the bidet) by pushing down the handle or button.

How to Use a Built-In Bidet:

STEP 1 — Sit down on the seat for use.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, remain seated and press the button or lever to activate the bidet function. Water will spray upward to clean you. Adjust the water pressure and temperature if options are available.

STEP 3 — Press the button for drying to dry yourself off, or if there is none, pat yourself dry using toilet paper or a towel provided nearby.

STEP 4 — Flush the toilet by pushing down the handle or button.

How to Use Handheld Spray Bidet:

STEP 1 — Sit down on the seat for use.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, remain seated and reach for the handheld sprayer. Aim the sprayer towards the area you need to clean, making sure the water is directed into the toilet, and hold the lever down.

STEP 3 — Return the sprayer to its place and pat yourself dry using toilet paper or a towel provided nearby.

STEP 4 — Flush the toilet by pushing down the handle or button.

Practical Tips:

Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet.
Check for toilet paper, towels, or a drying function before using the bidet. We recommend keeping a pack of tissues on you when traveling, in case you need them while using the bathroom.
Bidets are generally considered more hygienic than toilet paper alone, so don’t be afraid to try it, even if toilet paper is still available.
Be sure to dry off properly, as some bidets do not include a drying function.

The Japanese High-Tech Toilet

Japanese toilets, especially in public places and hotels, are high-tech wonders. These toilets may include heated seats, built-in bidets, built-in dryers, adjustable water pressure, and even music to cover up noise. Some of these high-tech toilets will have a control panel built right into the wall rather than attached to the toilet.

Where You’ll Find High-Tech Toilets:

Japan (hotels, restaurants, public restrooms)
Some luxury hotels around the world

How to Use High-Tech Toilets:

STEP 1 — Sit down on the seat for use.

STEP 2 — Find the control panel and look for fancy options, such as seat heaters or music. Select anything you desire.

STEP 3 — After you’re done, remain seated and press whichever button activates the bidet function. Just like a built-in bidet, water will spray upward to clean you. Adjust the water pressure and temperature if options are available.

STEP 4 — Use the toilet’s dryer function to dry yourself off after using the bidet. It may take a few minutes to get completely dry. If you prefer, pat yourself dry using toilet paper instead.

STEP 5 — Flush the toilet by pushing down the handle or button. Many high-tech toilets will have an automatic flush sensor.

Practical Tips:

Always wash your hands after using the toilet, even if the toilet has self-cleaning features.
These toilets often have buttons for everything, so don’t be afraid to explore (there are usually diagrams).

Squat Toilets

Squat toilets are common in many parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Instead of sitting, you squat over a hole in the ground, often equipped with footrests. There’s no seat. Some squat toilets flush just like a flush toilet, but many will simply have a bucket of water next to it that you’ll use to rinse the waste away.

Where You’ll Find Squat Toilets:

Squat toilets are common in the following countries, but it’s worth noting that most touristy areas will have standard Western flush toilets, especially at high-end hotels.

Southeast Asia (Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia)
Middle East (Iran, Egypt, Turkey)
Africa (various countries)
Some rural areas in China, Japan, and India

How to Use Squat Toilets:

STEP 1 — Stand over the toilet with your feet on either side of the hole.

STEP 2 — Squat down as low as you can, keeping your balance.

STEP 3 — After use, clean yourself using whatever option is available (some squat toilets will have toilet paper but some will have a bucket of water or a hose next to the toilet instead).

STEP 4 — If there’s a flush handle, push the handle down to flush the waste away. If there’s no flush handle, use the water bin to rinse the waste down.

Practical Tips:

Always wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet.
Always check for toilet paper or a water bucket before using the facilities.
If using the water bucket to clean up is necessary, wet the pan of the toilet before using it. This makes it easier to clean up afterward.
Bring your own toilet paper or wipes when traveling in rural areas because it’s unlikely you will find toilet paper in any bathroom.

Pit Latrines

Pit latrines are the most basic type of toilet found in rural areas, developing countries, and wilderness settings like safari camps. A pit latrine is simply a small hole in the ground or a pit with a cover. The depth of the pit is usually between 3 and 10 feet deep. In developing countries, there is usually no door, no toilet paper, and no water.

Where You’ll Find Pit Latrines:

Rural areas in Africa and South Asia
Some wilderness and camping areas worldwide
Certain safari camps and eco-lodges

How to Use Pit Latrines:

STEP 1 — Stand over the toilet with your feet on either side of the hole.

STEP 2 — Squat down as low as you can, making sure to aim for the small hole while keeping your balance.

STEP 3 — After use, clean yourself using whatever option is available. If there is no water or toilet paper, look for leaves or paper nearby. Ideally, you’ll always have some extra tissue on hand when traveling.

📣IMPORTANT — If you see a bucket of dirt nearby, it’s meant to be sprinkled into the hole, to cover up the waste.

Practical Tips:

Bring your own toilet paper or wipes, as these will likely not be provided.
Handwashing may not be possible, so bring hand sanitizer to stay clean.

Long Drop Toilets

Long drop toilets are similar to pit latrines but are often found in more remote areas like safari camps and remote wilderness areas. These toilets are elevated over a deep pit for waste, and they’re usually enclosed for privacy. The depth of a long drop pit is typically 10 or more feet. If you’ve visited a National Park, you’ve likely encountered a long drop toilet.

Where You’ll Find Long Drop Toilets:

Safari camps in Africa
National parks and remote wilderness areas
Rural areas without plumbing

How to Use Long Drop Toilets:

STEP 1 — Sit down or squat over the seat for use.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, clean yourself using whatever option is available. Most long drop toilets found in popular National Parks will have toilet paper, whereas long drop toilets in developing countries may have a bucket of water for washing.

📣IMPORTANT — Some safari camps have “flushable” versions where water is used to clean the bowl.

Practical Tips:

Carry toilet paper or wipes, as these may not be provided.
Handwashing may not be possible, so bring hand sanitizer to stay clean.

Composting Toilets

Composting toilets usually come in the form of a bucket placed under a raised bench. They are designed to break down human waste into compost. Instead of using water to flush waste away, composting toilets rely on aerobic bacteria and other microorganisms to break down the waste, transforming it into nutrient-rich compost that can be used in gardens or disposed of responsibly.

Where You’ll Find Composting Toilets:

Eco-friendly lodges, campsites, and compounds
Off-grid locations
Some safari camps

How to Use Composting Toilets:

STEP 1 — Sit down or squat over the seat for use, depending on the set up.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, use toilet paper to clean yourself.

STEP 3 — Drop the toilet paper down into the toilet and add a handful of wood shavings or sawdust (usually provided) to help with the composting process.

Practical Tips:

Carry toilet paper or wipes, as these may not be provided.
If there are instructions posted, follow them carefully to keep the composting process working.
Handwashing may not be possible, so bring hand sanitizer to stay clean.
Only drop regular toilet paper into the toilet. If you bring alternative wipes, dispose of them elsewhere.

Toilet Tents or Space Toilets

Toilet tents are portable toilets set up where permanent toilets aren’t available. These toilets usually consist of a portable seat placed over a waste-collecting bag. When you “flush,” the bag that lines the toilet twists up the contents and drops it below, revealing a new bag for the next use.

These toilets are sometimes called space toilets because they resemble the self-contained toilets used in outer space. Just like in space, these portable toilets are designed to function without access to plumbing or sewage systems, making them ideal for use in remote locations like glamping sites or disaster relief areas.

We first encountered a space toilet when we were glamping at Borealis Basecamp. We learned that the toilets can only handle 5 or 6 uses before they need to be emptied. It was a bit awkward but our toilet kept alerting us that it was full, even when it wasn’t, so we had to contact the resort staff on multiple occasions. It was an interesting experience, to say the least!

Where You’ll Find Tent Toilets:

Remote camping areas and safaris
Remote glampsites
Festivals and outdoor events
Eco-campsites

How to Use Tent Toilets:

STEP 1 — Sit down on the seat for use.

STEP 2 — After you’re done, use toilet paper to clean yourself.

STEP 3 — Close the lid and hit the button that activates the toilet. The toilet will then twist up the contents and drop it below, revealing a new bag for the next use. Wait for it to finish, then reopen the lid and check to make sure it worked properly. If it didn’t, close the lid and try again.

📣IMPORTANT — Some toilet tents are meant for single use. If there are no electronic buttons, and you can see the edges of the bag hanging off the side, you can assume you are meant to dispose of your own waste when you are finished. Look for instructions or a trash bin nearby.

Practical Tips:

Always close the lid before activating the toilet.
Carry toilet paper or wipes, as these may not be provided.
Handwashing may not be possible, so bring hand sanitizer to stay clean.
Be mindful of where you dispose of the waste, as different camps may have specific rules.

Toilet Tips for International Travel

Using different types of toilets while traveling internationally can be a new experience, especially in regions where bathroom norms differ from what you’re used to. Here are some tips to help make your trip more comfortable:

Carry Toilet Paper: In many countries, especially in Asia and parts of Africa, public restrooms may not provide toilet paper, so it’s a good idea to carry your own. Consider packing travel-sized tissue packs or a small roll of toilet paper in your day bag.
Learn Local Customs: In some countries, it’s customary to throw toilet paper in a bin rather than flush it due to plumbing limitations. Always check for signs in the restroom or follow the local practice.
Bring Hand Sanitizer or Wet Wipes: Many restrooms around the world don’t have soap or running water, so having hand sanitizer or wet wipes handy is crucial for maintaining hygiene after using the toilet.
Familiarize Yourself with Squat Toilets: If you’re traveling to parts of Asia, the Middle East, or Africa, you’re likely to encounter squat toilets. Practice squatting before your trip if you’re not used to this type of toilet.
Use Public Restrooms Wisely: In some countries, public restrooms may be rare or not well-maintained. Use restrooms in restaurants, hotels, or shopping centers where cleanliness is often better.
Know What to Call It: In different countries, the word for “toilet” varies, and using the right term can save you confusion. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s common to say “bathroom” or “restroom,” but in many other parts of the world, especially Europe, people simply ask for the “toilet” or “WC” (water closet). In the UK, “loo” is also widely used. When in doubt, ask for the “toilet” or look for signs with “WC,” which is universally understood in many countries. Avoid asking for a “bathroom” in countries like France or Germany, as this might be confusing — they may think you’re asking for a place to bathe rather than a toilet.

Toilet Kit Packing List for International Travel

When traveling internationally, we recommend putting together a small travel pack with basic essentials that you may need in the bathroom. Here’s everything you should include in your pack:

Toilet Paper or Tissue Packs: Some countries don’t always provide toilet paper in public restrooms, so it’s smart to have your own supply.
Wet Wipes: These are useful for freshening up on the go or in places where toilet paper isn’t available.
Hand Sanitizer: A must-have in regions where soap or water might not be available after using the restroom.
Disposable Toilet Seat Covers: If you’re concerned about hygiene in public restrooms, these covers can offer peace of mind.
Towel or Travel Washcloth: For personal hygiene or wiping down surfaces, it’s handy to carry a lightweight, quick-dry towel.
Medications: Be sure to pack medications for traveler’s diarrhea, constipation, or any other personal needs in case you encounter issues while away from home.

How to Avoid Traveler’s Diarrhea

Traveler’s diarrhea is one of the most common issues faced by travelers, particularly when visiting regions with different hygiene standards. It’s caused by consuming food or water that is contaminated with bacteria that is foreign to your body. Here are some key strategies to avoid it:

Drink Bottled or Boiled Water: Avoid drinking tap water in high-risk countries. Stick to bottled or boiled water, and avoid ice unless you’re certain it was made with clean water.
Eat Hot, Freshly Cooked Food: Opt for food that has been thoroughly cooked and served hot, as it is less likely to be contaminated than raw or cold dishes.
Peel Fruits and Vegetables: Eat fruits and vegetables that you can peel yourself, such as bananas or oranges, to avoid bacteria that may be present on the skin.
Avoid Raw or Undercooked Meat: Raw meat and seafood can harbor harmful bacteria. Stick to fully cooked dishes to reduce the risk of contamination.
Use Bottled Water for Cleaning: In areas with poor sanitation, use bottled or boiled water to brush your teeth and avoid swallowing water while showering.
Take Probiotics: Some travelers take probiotics before and during their trip to promote a healthy gut and reduce the chances of getting sick.

How to Avoid Traveler’s Constipation

Traveler’s constipation is common due to changes in routine, diet, and hydration while on the road. Here’s how to keep things moving during your travels:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot or dry climates. Dehydration is one of the main causes of constipation.
Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet to ensure you get enough fiber. Foods like apples, carrots, oats, and beans can help maintain regular bowel movements.
Stay Active: Traveling often means long periods of sitting, whether on planes or buses. Try to incorporate light exercise, such as walking or stretching, to stimulate digestion and avoid constipation.
Establish a Routine: Even when traveling, try to maintain regular meal times and bathroom habits. Your body’s internal clock thrives on consistency, and disruptions can lead to constipation.
Limit Processed Foods: Processed foods, especially those high in sugar or salt, can slow down digestion. Instead, opt for fresh, whole foods when possible.
Bring a Gentle Laxative: If you are prone to constipation, consider bringing a gentle over-the-counter laxative or fiber supplement in case you experience issues.

Final Thoughts

No matter where your travels take you, having a basic understanding of the different types of toilets around the world and how to use them is essential for maintaining comfort and peace of mind. From high-tech bidets in Japan to simple squat toilets in rural areas, being prepared with the right knowledge can ease the anxiety that sometimes comes with unfamiliar bathroom situations.

It’s important to embrace the variety of toilet experiences with an open mind, understanding that these differences reflect the culture and infrastructure of the places you visit. What might feel unusual at first can quickly become part of the adventure. Staying flexible and respectful of local customs not only makes your travels smoother but also deepens your connection with the world and its diverse ways of living.

And remember: Always carry essentials like toilet paper, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer, particularly when visiting remote or developing regions where facilities may not provide these items.

Thank you for reading our post! We hope it helps you plan the perfect trip! Check out our other guides here and follow us on Instagram (@AntisocialTourist) or on Facebook to see our latest adventures!