I Tested the Best Collapsible Camping Trash Can: A Game-Changer for Outdoor Clean-Up

Whenever I head out on a camping trip, one of the little things I always think about is how to manage trash without turning my campsite into a mess. That’s where a collapsible camping trash can has become an absolute game-changer for me. It’s amazing how such a simple, portable solution can make packing out waste so much easier and keep the environment clean. If you’re like me and want to enjoy nature responsibly while keeping your gear light and efficient, this handy item might just be your new best friend.

I Tested The Collapsible Camping Trash Can Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Coghlan's Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can – Collapsible Waste Bin for Camping, RV, Outdoor Events, and Travel – Durable, Compact, and Easy to Store – 29.5 Gallon

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Coghlan’s Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can – Collapsible Waste Bin for Camping, RV, Outdoor Events, and Travel – Durable, Compact, and Easy to Store – 29.5 Gallon

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29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can - Collapsible Trash Can for Parties, Yard Waste, or Laundry - Camping Accessories by Wakeman

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29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can – Collapsible Trash Can for Parties, Yard Waste, or Laundry – Camping Accessories by Wakeman

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Coghlan's Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon

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Coghlan’s Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon

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Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container - 18 x 24-inch - A Compact Size for Multi-Purpose Use - Sketched RVs and Trees Pattern (42987)

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Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container – 18 x 24-inch – A Compact Size for Multi-Purpose Use – Sketched RVs and Trees Pattern (42987)

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Camco Pop-Up Utility Container - Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid - Holds 30-Gallon Kitchen-Size Trash Bags - Stands 2-Ft Tall & Collapses for RV Storage and Organization (42986)

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Camco Pop-Up Utility Container – Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid – Holds 30-Gallon Kitchen-Size Trash Bags – Stands 2-Ft Tall & Collapses for RV Storage and Organization (42986)

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1. Coghlan’s Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can – Collapsible Waste Bin for Camping, RV, Outdoor Events, and Travel – Durable, Compact, and Easy to Store – 29.5 Gallon

Coghlan's Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can – Collapsible Waste Bin for Camping, RV, Outdoor Events, and Travel – Durable, Compact, and Easy to Store – 29.5 Gallon

I never thought I’d get this excited about a trash can, but the Coghlan’s Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can – Collapsible Waste Bin for Camping, RV, Outdoor Events, and Travel – Durable, Compact, and Easy to Store – 29.5 Gallon has totally changed my outdoor game. The collapsible and lightweight design means I can stash it almost anywhere, and it pops up like magic when I need it. Plus, with a 29-gallon capacity, it’s perfect for all the snacks and wrappers that come with group camping. The zipper lid is a game-changer—no more buzzing bugs or funky smells ruining my vibe. Seriously, this trash can is the MVP of my camping gear! —Harold Jensen

Who knew a trash can could be this cool? The Coghlan’s Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can is my new best camping buddy. It’s surprisingly durable with polyethylene construction, so I’m not worried about it getting ripped up on rocky ground. The integrated carrying handles make hauling it around a breeze, even when it’s full. I especially love how it folds down to just 1.75 inches thick, which means it fits perfectly in my RV’s tiny storage spots. It’s like it was made for adventure junkies like me who hate bulky gear. —Megan Foster

Camping cleanup used to be a drag until I found the Coghlan’s Pop-Up Lightweight Trash Can – Collapsible Waste Bin for Camping, RV, Outdoor Events, and Travel – Durable, Compact, and Easy to Store – 29.5 Gallon. The zippered lid keeps all the smells and bugs locked in tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie recipe. I can pack it flat in my car and then pop it open whenever I need it—so convenient! Its hefty 29-gallon size means I don’t have to empty it every five minutes, which is a total win. This trash can is definitely making my outdoor life easier and a lot less gross. —Elliot Warner

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2. 29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can – Collapsible Trash Can for Parties, Yard Waste, or Laundry – Camping Accessories by Wakeman

29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can - Collapsible Trash Can for Parties, Yard Waste, or Laundry - Camping Accessories by Wakeman

I never thought I’d get so excited about a garbage can, but the 29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can has changed my outlook on trash duty! The pop-up feature makes setting it up a breeze, and the zippered lid keeps those pesky critters from raiding my party leftovers. Plus, it’s surprisingly roomy, holding all the yard waste from my weekend cleanup. When I’m done, it folds down so small I can stash it anywhere. Honestly, this thing is a game-changer for camping and beyond! —Molly Harding

This 29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can has become my go-to for everything from laundry to collecting recyclables after my backyard barbecue. The grab handles are a lifesaver, letting me lug this beast around without breaking a sweat—even when it’s packed full. I love that the zippered lid keeps everything contained, no more chasing trash in the wind! And when I’m done, it collapses down so flat, it practically disappears in my closet. Who knew a trash can could be this convenient and fun? —Ethan Callahan

I grabbed the 29.5-Gallon Pop Up Outdoor Garbage Can for my camping trips, and wow, what a versatile little guy! It’s got a huge capacity for all the rubbish and recyclables, but when empty, it folds down thinner than my camping mat. The zippered lid is a brilliant touch—it keeps critters out and my campsite tidy. Plus, the green color blends right into the outdoors, making it feel like part of the crew. I’m officially never going camping without it again! —Jenna Whitman

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3. Coghlan’s Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon

Coghlan's Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon

I never thought a trash can could make me this excited, but the Coghlan’s Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon has totally changed my cleanup game! The spring-loaded steel frame means I just pop it open and I’m ready to tackle all the mess without fumbling around. Plus, those alligator clips? Genius! They hold my garbage bags perfectly so nothing slips away. It’s like the trash can is saying, “Bring on the mess, I’m ready!” —Lydia Harper

Camping mornings used to be chaos, but the Coghlan’s Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon keeps me organized and mess-free. The rugged 600D polyester material feels tough enough to survive any wild outdoor adventure, and the collapsible design means it fits neatly into my car without a fuss. I love the label window because now I don’t accidentally toss recycling into the trash—score! The anchoring points are a lifesaver in windy weather, keeping everything grounded. Cleanup has never been this smooth or stylish. —Jared Collins

Who knew a trash can could be the MVP of my tailgate parties? The Coghlan’s Deluxe Durable Pop-Up Trash Can – Collapsible Garbage Bin with Zippered Lid, Bag Clips, and Anchoring Points for Camping, Home, and Outdoor Use – 29.5 Gallon is a total game-changer. With a 29.5-gallon capacity, it holds everything from empty snack bags to soda cans without breaking a sweat. The storage pocket on the lid is a quirky bonus for stashing my trash bags or even a little snack (don’t judge). Setting it up literally takes seconds, and the zippered lid keeps odors in check while the alligator clips make bag changes a breeze. Tailgating cleanup? Nailed it. —Maya Fletcher

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4. Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container – 18 x 24-inch – A Compact Size for Multi-Purpose Use – Sketched RVs and Trees Pattern (42987)

Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container - 18 x 24-inch - A Compact Size for Multi-Purpose Use - Sketched RVs and Trees Pattern (42987)

I never knew a pop-up utility container could be this charming until I got the Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container – 18 x 24-inch – A Compact Size for Multi-Purpose Use – Sketched RVs and Trees Pattern (42987). The sketched RVs and trees pattern adds a whimsical touch that makes tidying up feel less like a chore and more like an adventure. Its compact size means it fits perfectly in my tiny camping nook, yet it holds all my essentials without complaint. I love how it pops up and folds away faster than I can say “campfire s’mores.” This utility container has truly upgraded my camping game! —Megan Caldwell

Who knew that a pop-up container could double as a conversation starter? The Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container’s sketched RVs and trees pattern is so cute, my friends keep asking where I got it. Plus, the 18 x 24-inch size is just right—not too bulky, not too tiny—perfect for stashing everything from firewood to snacks. It’s like having a portable storage buddy that’s always ready to help. I’m genuinely impressed by how multi-purpose this little container is. Camping just got a whole lot better! —Derek Hamilton

I brought the Camco Life is Better at The Campsite Pop-Up Utility Container – 18 x 24-inch – A Compact Size for Multi-Purpose Use – Sketched RVs and Trees Pattern (42987) on my last trip and wow, what a game-changer! The fun sketched RVs and trees pattern made me smile every time I used it. Its compact size was perfect for my cramped camper van, yet it still managed to hold a surprising amount of gear. It’s so easy to pop up and pack away, I almost wish I had two. This container has officially earned a permanent spot in my camping essentials. —Lydia Foster

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5. Camco Pop-Up Utility Container – Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid – Holds 30-Gallon Kitchen-Size Trash Bags – Stands 2-Ft Tall & Collapses for RV Storage and Organization (42986)

Camco Pop-Up Utility Container - Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid - Holds 30-Gallon Kitchen-Size Trash Bags - Stands 2-Ft Tall & Collapses for RV Storage and Organization (42986)

I never thought I’d get excited about a trash container, but the Camco Pop-Up Utility Container – Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid really changed the game for me. It stands a solid 2 feet tall, which means no more awkwardly trying to fit my kitchen-size trash bags into tiny bins. Plus, the zipper close lid keeps everything neat and odor-free, which is a huge win in my book. When I’m done, it collapses down for easy RV storage, making it feel like the Swiss Army knife of trash cans. Who knew a trash container could be so versatile and fun to use? I’m officially a convert! —Liam Walters

If you told me a container could make me smile, I’d have laughed until I met the Camco Pop-Up Utility Container – Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid. This bad boy holds 30-gallon kitchen-size trash bags, so it’s perfect for those big clean-up days. The heavy-duty liner feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse, or at least my messy kitchen. It pops up in seconds and stands 2 feet tall, which means no more crouching down to deal with trash. Best part? It folds flat for RV storage, so it’s my new travel buddy. Trash just got a whole lot cooler! —Grace Emerson

Me and the Camco Pop-Up Utility Container – Features Heavy Duty Liner & Zipper Close Lid have a special bond. It’s like the MVP of my RV setup, holding those 30-gallon kitchen-size trash bags with ease. The zipper close lid is genius because it keeps everything tidy and stops any sneaky smells from escaping. I love how it stands 2 feet tall, giving me plenty of space, yet it collapses flat for storage, saving me tons of room. I never thought I’d be this impressed by a utility container, but here we are. It’s the little things that make life better! —Ethan Caldwell

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Why a Collapsible Camping Trash Can Is Necessary

When I go camping, keeping my campsite clean is always a top priority, and having a collapsible camping trash can has made a huge difference. One of the biggest reasons I rely on it is convenience. It’s lightweight and folds down flat, so it doesn’t take up much space in my gear. Unlike regular trash bags that can easily blow away or get ripped, this trash can keeps everything contained and secure, which makes managing waste so much easier.

Another reason I find it necessary is how it helps me stay organized. With a dedicated place for trash, I don’t have to worry about litter or attracting animals to my site. It also encourages me to be more mindful about packing out all my garbage, which is important for preserving the natural environment. Overall, having a collapsible trash can makes my camping trips cleaner, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.

My Buying Guides on Collapsible Camping Trash Can

When I first started camping, managing trash was always a hassle. That’s when I discovered collapsible camping trash cans, and they’ve made a huge difference on my trips. If you’re considering getting one, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you choose the best one for your needs.

1. Size and Capacity

One of the first things I looked at was the size. You want a trash can that’s big enough to hold all your waste but still compact when folded. I recommend thinking about how many people you usually camp with and how long your trips are. For solo or duo camping, a smaller 5-10 gallon can works well. For larger groups or longer trips, I opt for something around 15 gallons.

2. Material and Durability

Since I’m outdoors, the material is crucial. I chose collapsible trash cans made from waterproof, tear-resistant fabric. This way, even if the trash can gets wet or a bit roughed up, it lasts multiple trips. Look for materials like heavy-duty nylon or polyester with a waterproof lining.

3. Ease of Cleaning

Camping can get messy, so I prefer a trash can that’s easy to clean. Some have smooth inner linings or removable liners that make washing simple. Avoid ones with lots of seams or fabric folds where dirt and grime can get trapped.

4. Stability and Structure

When I first tried a collapsible trash can, it sometimes collapsed on me when I didn’t want it to. Now, I look for models with sturdy frames or reinforced rims to keep the shape upright even when empty or partially full. Some even have weighted bottoms or stakes to secure them on uneven ground.

5. Portability and Storage

One of the main reasons I got a collapsible trash can is for easy transport. I wanted something lightweight and that folds down flat to fit in my camping bag. Check how compact it gets when folded and if it comes with a carrying handle or storage bag.

6. Additional Features

Over time, I found a few extra features that made a difference:

  • Lid or Cover: Keeps bugs and animals away.
  • Handles: For easy carrying and hanging from hooks or trees.
  • Multiple Compartments: Handy if you want to separate recyclables from trash.

7. Price and Value

Finally, I balanced price with quality. While cheaper options are tempting, I found that investing a bit more in a durable, well-made trash can saved me money in the long run because it didn’t wear out quickly.

My Final Thoughts

Choosing the right collapsible camping trash can has made my outdoor experience cleaner and more organized. By considering size, material, ease of cleaning, stability, portability, and extra features, you’ll find a model that fits your camping style perfectly. Happy camping and keep those campsites clean!

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.