A composting toilet is a must have for off grid living whether it’s a van, skoolie, RV or tiny house. In this video, we compared to top two composting toilets – the Nature’s Head and the Airhead – and find some very surprising differences!
In this video, Driven to Adventures compares two of the most popular composting toilets—the Airhead and Nature’s Head—to help viewers choose the best option for van life, overlanding, and off-grid setups. Known for sharing real-world travel experiences, the creators focus on practical usability, installation, and day-to-day convenience.
Overview of Both Composting Toilets
Driven to Adventures explains that both toilets use a urine-diverting system, separating liquids and solids to minimize odor and improve efficiency.
Both models offer:
- Waterless operation
- Built-in ventilation systems
- No need for black tanks or plumbing
- Suitability for mobile and off-grid living
While they function similarly, the video emphasizes that design differences significantly impact user experience.
Comporting Toilet Key Differences Highlighted in the Video
Design & Space Efficiency
Driven to Adventures notes that the Airhead has a more compact and modular design, making it easier to install in tighter spaces like vans or small rigs.
The Nature’s Head, by comparison, has a bulkier, one-piece construction, which may limit placement flexibility.
Liquid Tank Accessibility
One of the biggest differences highlighted is how each toilet handles the liquid container:
- Airhead: Allows the bottle to be removed independently
- Nature’s Head: Typically requires opening or shifting the unit
Driven to Adventures points out that this makes the Airhead more convenient for frequent emptying during travel.
Agitator & Usability
Both toilets include a crank for mixing compost material, but:
- Airhead: Offers more flexibility in crank positioning
- Nature’s Head: Has a more fixed design
This affects usability depending on installation layout and available space.
Capacity Considerations
Nature’s Head provides slightly larger capacity, meaning it may require less frequent emptying.
However, Driven to Adventures emphasizes that ease of use and accessibility often outweigh capacity, especially for full-time travelers.

Real-World Performance of Nature’s Head & Air Head
Based on their experience, Driven to Adventures finds that both toilets:
- Control odor effectively when used properly
- Require minimal maintenance compared to traditional systems
- Eliminate the need for pump-outs and plumbing
However, the Airhead stands out for its user-friendly design and flexibility, particularly in compact setups.
Pros and Cons
Airhead
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Compact and modular design Easier liquid tank removal Flexible installation | Slightly smaller capacity |
Nature’s Head
| Pros: | Cons: |
| Larger Capacity Widely used and proven | Bulkier design Less convenient access to liquid tank |
Final Verdict from Driven to Adventures
Driven to Adventures concludes that both toilets are reliable and effective, but the decision comes down to priorities.
- The Airhead is favored for its ease of use, flexibility, and compact design
- The Nature’s Head is better suited for those who prioritize capacity and a more traditional setup
For most van life and overlanding setups, the video leans toward the Airhead as the more practical and user-friendly choice.




