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