Events

Porta Potty for Tailgating & Game Day: Complete Guide

Level up your tailgate with your own portable restroom. Types, costs, stadium logistics, season packages, and tips for game day hosting.

PP

Port Pottimer

8 min read • Updated December 2024

Tailgating is an American tradition - grills sizzling, cold drinks flowing, and fans celebrating before the big game. But when you're hosting a tailgate party in a stadium parking lot, one question always comes up: where does everyone go to the bathroom?

Stadium facilities are far away and packed. Port-a-potties provided by the venue are often overused and under-maintained. That's why serious tailgaters increasingly bring their own portable restroom. Here's the complete guide to game day sanitation.

Do You Need Your Own Porta Potty?

Consider Renting If:

  • Large group: 20+ people at your tailgate
  • Premium location: You have a dedicated or season-ticket parking spot
  • All-day event: Arriving early, staying late
  • Heavy refreshments: Beer and food means more bathroom trips
  • Comfort priority: You want guests to stay at your tailgate, not wander off
  • Repeat events: You host tailgates multiple times per season

Probably Not Needed If:

  • Small group (under 10 people)
  • Short pre-game window (1-2 hours)
  • Located near stadium facilities
  • Budget is very tight

The Math

For a group of 30 people tailgating for 4 hours with alcohol: expect 60-90 bathroom visits. That's 15-20 trips to and from distant stadium facilities - or everyone stays put with your own porta potty.

Best Porta Potties for Tailgating

Standard Units

The basic, cost-effective option.

  • Cost: $150-250 for game day delivery and pickup
  • Pros: Affordable, gets the job done
  • Cons: Not fancy, may not match the "premium tailgate" vibe
  • Best for: Budget-conscious hosts, casual tailgates

Deluxe Units

Enhanced features for better comfort.

  • Cost: $200-350
  • Features: Hand sanitizer, mirror, better ventilation, coat hook
  • Best for: Most tailgate parties

Flushable Units

Step up with actual flushing toilets.

  • Cost: $300-500
  • Features: Fresh-water flush, more sanitary feel
  • Best for: Upscale tailgates, mixed crowd including families

Restroom Trailers

The ultimate tailgate restroom experience.

  • Cost: $800-1,500+ for game day
  • Features: Multiple stalls, running water, climate control, luxury finishes
  • Requirements: Larger parking footprint, may need power hookup
  • Best for: Corporate tailgates, RV lots, VIP hosting

Game Day Logistics

Timing

  • Delivery: Schedule for 2-3 hours before your arrival time
  • Pickup: After the game ends (or next morning if allowed)
  • Season packages: Some providers offer all-season deals for regular tailgaters

Stadium/Venue Policies

Before booking, check:

  • Permitted? Some stadiums don't allow personal porta potties
  • Lot restrictions: Some premium lots have rules
  • Size limits: Trailers may be prohibited in general lots
  • Delivery access: When can trucks access the lot for delivery/pickup?

Placement in Your Tailgate Zone

  • Away from food: At least 15-20 feet from grills and tables
  • Accessible: Clear path, not blocked by vehicles
  • Visible: Guests should find it easily
  • Downwind: Consider wind direction
  • Not blocking traffic: Leave driving lanes clear

How Many Units Do You Need?

Group Size Light Drinking Heavy Drinking
15-25 guests 1 unit 1 unit
25-40 guests 1 unit 2 units
40-60 guests 2 units 2-3 units
60-100 guests 2-3 units 3-4 units

Pro tip: For mixed groups with alcohol, add 25% more capacity. Lines at tailgate bathrooms are never a good look.

Tailgate Upgrades

Handwashing Station

  • Why: Essential for food safety at tailgates
  • Cost: +$50-100
  • Features: Foot-pump operation, soap, paper towels

Portable Urinal

  • Why: Faster turnover for quick breaks
  • Cost: +$75-125
  • Best for: Male-heavy crowds

VIP Treatment

  • Air freshener: Bring your own or request extra from provider
  • Extra TP: Stock up beyond what's provided
  • Hand sanitizer backup: Keep an extra bottle at your tailgate setup
  • Night lighting: Battery lantern if event runs past dark

Season Pass Options

For serious tailgaters with season tickets:

All-Season Package

  • One delivery at season start, one pickup after final home game
  • Weekly servicing throughout season
  • Cost: $800-1,500 for 8-10 game season (vs $150-250 per game)
  • Savings: 40-60% compared to individual rentals

Per-Game Delivery

  • Fresh unit delivered before each game
  • Pickup after each game
  • More flexibility, higher per-game cost
  • Good for: Those who don't tailgate every game

Corporate Tailgates

Hosting clients, employees, or sponsors? Consider:

  • Restroom trailers: Professional appearance, climate control
  • Attendant service: Someone to keep facilities pristine
  • Branding: Some companies offer branded units
  • ADA unit: Required for inclusive hosting
  • Premium supplies: Hand lotion, mouthwash, quality paper products

RV Lot Considerations

Tailgating with an RV? You might think you're covered, but:

  • Black tank limits: RV toilets fill up fast with a crowd
  • Dump station lines: Everyone leaves at the same time
  • Guest convenience: Easier than explaining your RV toilet rules
  • Preserve your tank: Keep RV capacity for overnight trips

Pro Tips for Game Day

  1. Book early: Game day rentals fill up fast, especially for big matchups
  2. Coordinate with neighbors: Share a unit between adjacent tailgate groups
  3. Get the number: Have your provider's emergency line in case of issues
  4. Signage: Mark the unit with your tailgate name/logo so guests find it
  5. Assign a monitor: Someone to check supplies periodically
  6. Lock it: Some units have locks - keep the key on a trusted person
  7. Night games: Ensure interior lighting or bring a lantern

Complete Cost Breakdown

Typical costs for a 50-person tailgate:

Setup Cost
Budget: 1 standard unit $150-200
Standard: 2 deluxe units + handwashing $450-650
Premium: Restroom trailer $800-1,500
Season package (8 games, standard) $800-1,200 total

Per-person cost: Even the premium option is only $16-30 per guest - less than a stadium beer!

Ready for Game Day?

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