How many portable toilets do I need for my event?
One of the most common questions we're asked at Cambridge Luxury Toilets is:
"How many portable toilets do I actually need?"
The answer depends on several factors, including guest numbers, event duration, the type of event, and whether food and drink are being served. Getting the number right is essential - too few facilities can lead to queues and discomfort, while the right provision keeps guests happy and events running smoothly.
This guide explains how to estimate the correct number of luxury portable toilets for your event and when it's worth allowing extra capacity.
Key Factors That Affect Toilet Numbers
Before looking at examples, it's important to understand the main variables that influence how many toilets are required.
1. Number of Guests
This is the starting point for any calculation. Larger guest numbers naturally require more facilities, especially during peak usage times.
2. Length of the Event
A short event may need fewer toilets, while all-day or multi-day events require additional capacity or servicing.
3. Type of Event
Different events have different usage patterns:
- Weddings have peaks between meals and during evening celebrations
- Exhibitions see steady use throughout the day
- Corporate events may concentrate usage around breaks
- Festivals and community events require higher capacity
4. Food and Drink
Events serving alcohol generally see higher toilet usage and should allow for additional units.
5. Quality of Facilities
Luxury portable toilets offer more comfort, space, and efficiency than basic temporary units, which can help reduce queues - but capacity still needs to be planned properly.
General Guidance for Luxury Portable Toilets
As a broad guideline for luxury portable toilets with running water, mirrors and spacious interiors:
- Up to 50 guests - 1 luxury toilet unit
- 50-100 guests - 2 luxury toilet units
- 100-150 guests - 3 luxury toilet units
- 150-200 guests - 4 luxury toilet units
These figures assume a typical event lasting several hours. Longer events, or those with alcohol, should allow extra capacity.
For events requiring higher throughput, we can advise on suitable layouts using our Event Toilets.
Weddings: Planning Toilet Numbers
Weddings are one of the most common events we support, and guest comfort is especially important.
For weddings, we recommend allowing slightly more capacity than the minimum, particularly for evening receptions.
Typical guidance:
- Up to 80 guests - 2 luxury toilets
- 80-150 guests - 3 to 4 luxury toilets
- 150+ guests - bespoke advice recommended
Our Wedding Toilets are designed to provide space, mirrors, vanity areas and hot and cold running water - features that guests genuinely appreciate.
Corporate Events and Exhibitions
Corporate events and exhibitions often have steady footfall throughout the day, with increased use during breaks.
For:
- Conferences
- Trade shows
- Business exhibitions
We recommend planning based on peak usage periods, not just total attendance. Our Corporate Event Toilets are frequently used as additional facilities alongside permanent venue toilets.
Festivals, Community Events and Fun Days
Public events typically require higher capacity due to:
- Continuous footfall
- Mixed age groups
- Longer operating hours
For these events, we usually recommend a tailored setup using our Festival Toilets, often combined with servicing or long-term hire options.
For events running across multiple days, our Long-Term Toilet Hire service ensures facilities remain clean and well maintained throughout.
Why Luxury Toilets Can Reduce Queues
Luxury portable toilets offer:
- More internal space
- Proper handwashing facilities
- Clear lighting
- Comfortable layouts
These features allow guests to use the facilities efficiently, helping reduce congestion compared with basic temporary units. You can see the difference by viewing our Luxury Units.
When Should You Allow Extra Toilets?
We always recommend allowing extra capacity if:
- Alcohol is served
- The event lasts longer than four hours
- The event runs into the evening
- There is limited access to permanent toilets
- Guest comfort is a high priority
Our team is always happy to advise based on your specific event.
Get Personal Advice for Your Event
Every event is different, and the best way to ensure the right setup is to speak with us directly. We regularly provide guidance for events across:
If you'd like help calculating toilet numbers or arranging luxury portable toilet hire, please visit our Contact page.
Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference
Providing the right number of toilets helps ensure:
- Shorter queues
- Happier guests
- A smoother-running event
With careful planning and professional advice, luxury portable toilets can be a seamless part of your event.