There are very few duties within the RV lifestyle that we dread more than tending to the holding tanks, particularly the black tank. RVing can enrich your life, but it also comes with downsides, such as draining your tanks.
Let’s take a comprehensive look at what makes a honeywagon so helpful when you’re camping somewhere without a septic hookup.
Let’s Face It…Sh!t Happens
The fact of the matter is, there’s no avoiding the need to dump your waste. It’s an inevitable truth that none of us can escape — part of the trade-off to having a personal bathroom within your self-contained RV.
Though it would be nice, not all campgrounds have full hookups, and those that do sometimes have a limited supply. For example, you’ll find water and electric hookups in some state parks, but not sewage.
And you’ll be completely on your own while boondocking. This form of camping can take you to some of the most peaceful, tranquil places. However, that means you have no dump station or sewage hookups at all.
What Is an RV Honeywagon?
An RV honeywagon is a massive vacuum on wheels that collects and carries human waste for disposal. They can also help empty tanks on buildings, airplanes, and trains.
Why Is It Called a Honeywagon?
The name “honeywagon” likely comes from the honey-colored liquid that comes out of holding tanks. Originally, horses drew the vehicles through alleys to collect waste. This was in the time before homes had flush toilets, and many still used outhouses.
How Much Does an RV Pumping Service Cost?
The price can vary according to your location and the company you choose. But, on average, you should expect to pay about $70 to $100 every time you use an RV pumping service.
Who Uses Honeywagons?
Everyone from campgrounds to RVers to office buildings to aircraft use honeywagons. Anyone with a septic tank may need to use a honeywagon at some point.
How to Find RV Honeywagon Service Near You
Luckily, you have a couple of different options. First, your campground might have an RV septic tank service. Check with the site to see if that’s the case.
You could also try a local RV dealership or parts and supply store. These locations often know of local honeywagon service.
Of course, you could go the old-fashioned way and check the Yellow Pages. Word of mouth can also help if you’re camping near other RVers. They may know good services in the area.
Alternatives to Using an RV Honeywagon
You don’t need to pay for RV honeywagon service. Try these alternatives instead.
Find a Dump Station Near You
Dump stations are far cheaper than honeywagon service. You can use apps and websites to find a dump station near you. You will need to do the work yourself, but you should find that you save money this way.
Use a Portable Waste Tank
Invest in a portable waste tank or sewage cart. These portable tanks allow you to empty your tanks into a large, rectangular plastic cart on wheels to transport them to a nearby dump station. Although convenient and time-saving, know that a full cart can get heavy.
One of the most gruesome parts of camping and the RV lifestyle is maintaining the black tank. Honeywagon service ensures you’re able to spend more time on the moments that matter and less time on the necessary duties. That might be a worthwhile trade-off for you, though not everyone wants to shoulder the extra cost. Have you ever used a honeywagon service before?
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