Are you planning a camping trip and looking for a way to stay clean and refreshed? Look no further! In this article, we will be discussing the top 5 best camping showers for 2023. From portable shower bags to solar-powered showers, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for something lightweight and easy to pack, or something with a little more luxury, we’ve got a shower for every type of camper. So, grab your towel, and let’s dive in!
Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Camping Shower
When purchasing a camping shower, there are several things to consider in order to ensure you choose the best option for your needs. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Water capacity: Consider how much water you’ll need for your shower, and choose a camping shower with a capacity that meets your needs.
Water pressure: Some camping showers have a built-in pump to increase water pressure, which can make showering more comfortable.
Heating method: Some camping showers are solar-powered and heat the water as it’s being used, while others use a separate heating element.
Size and weight: If you’re planning on hiking to your campsite, you’ll want to choose a camping shower that is lightweight and easy to pack.
Durability: Look for a camping shower that is made with durable materials and is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
ease of use: Some camping showers are very easy to set up and use, while others are more complex. Consider your level of experience with camping gear and choose a shower that you feel comfortable using.
Price: Camping showers come in a wide range of prices, so be sure to consider your budget when making your purchase.
By considering these factors, you will be able to choose the best camping shower for your needs and enjoy a comfortable shower experience while camping.
The 10 Best Camping Showers Of 2023
1. Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower
The Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a reliable and high-performance shower. This camping shower is designed with a built-in pump that increases water pressure, which provides a comfortable and steady flow of water. The shower head is also adjustable to control water flow, making it easy to customize the shower to your liking.
One of the best features of this camping shower is its portability. The shower is lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great option for backpackers or hikers. The handle makes it easy to hang and it comes with a carrying case for easy transport. The shower also comes with a foot pump which allows for easy pressurization and eliminates the need for batteries.
The durability of the product is also impressive, made with high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The hose is made with a special material that resists kinking and is designed to last for a long time.
One downside of this camping shower is that it is not solar-powered, so you’ll have to rely on electricity or a separate heating element to have a warm shower. Additionally, the water capacity is not as high as some other camping showers, so you may need to refill the shower more frequently.
Overall, the Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a high-performance and reliable camping shower. Its built-in pump, portability, durability, and easy pressurization make it a good choice for camping or backpacking trips. However, it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a solar-powered shower or a large water capacity.
2. Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Camping System
The Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Camping System is a versatile and convenient camping gear that offers various features in one unit. It comes with a rechargeable battery that powers a fan, a lantern, a USB charger, and a water pump. The water pump can be used to pump water from a lake or a river and pressurize it to use as a shower.
One of the best features of this camping system is its versatility. It offers multiple functions in one unit, which makes it a great option for campers who want to save space and weight in their gear. The rechargeable battery provides up to 7 hours of continuous use and can be recharged through a wall outlet or a car charger.
The system is also quite durable, made with high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The fan and lantern can be used with or without the water pump, providing added functionality and convenience.
However, one downside of this camping system is that it does not heat the water, so you’ll have to rely on the natural water temperature or an additional heating element. Additionally, the water capacity is not as high as some other camping showers, so you may need to refill the shower more frequently.
Overall, the Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Camping System is a great option for campers who are looking for versatile and convenient camping gear. Its rechargeable battery, multiple functions, and durability make it a good choice for camping or backpacking trips. However, it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a solar-powered or high-performance shower.
3. Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower
The Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a convenient and easy-to-use camping shower. This shower is powered by a rechargeable battery and can pump water from a bucket into a steady, gentle shower stream. The handheld showerhead is compact and easy to hold, making it a great option for backpackers or hikers.
One of the best features of this camping shower is its portability. It is lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great option for camping or backpacking trips. The rechargeable battery provides up to 1 hour of continuous use and can be recharged through a wall outlet or a car charger.
The shower is also very easy to use, simply fill a bucket with water and turn on the showerhead, the water will be pumped through the showerhead providing a steady and gentle stream of water. The shower head also has different settings for spray patterns, allowing you to adjust the water flow to your liking.
The durability of the product is also impressive, made with high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
However, one downside of this camping shower is that it does not heat the water, so you’ll have to rely on the natural water temperature or an additional heating element. Additionally, the water capacity is limited to the size of the bucket, so you may need to refill the bucket more frequently.
Overall, the Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a convenient and easy-to-use camping shower. Its portability, rechargeable battery and easy to use design make it a good choice for camping or backpacking trips. However, it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a solar-powered or a high-performance shower.
4. Sea to Summit Pocket Shower Black
The Sea to Summit Pocket Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use camping shower. This shower is designed to be compact and easy to pack, making it a great option for backpackers or hikers. It comes in a small, lightweight bag with a handle that can be hung up, and once filled with water and exposed to sunlight, it heats up the water inside.
One of the best features of this camping shower is its portability. It is lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great option for camping or backpacking trips. The shower bag is made with a special material that absorbs the sun’s rays and heats the water inside, providing a warm shower experience.
The shower is also very easy to use, simply fill the bag with water, and hang it in the sun, after a few hours the water will be warm enough for a shower. The shower head is also adjustable to control water flow, making it easy to customize the shower to your liking.
The durability of the product is also impressive, made with high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
However, one downside of this camping shower is that the water pressure may not be as high as some campers may prefer. Also, the water heating depends on the strength of the sun, so it may take longer to heat up on cloudy days or in areas with weaker sunlight.
Overall, the Sea to Summit Pocket Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use camping shower. Its portability, solar-powered heating and easy to use design make it a good choice for camping or backpacking trips. However, it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a high-pressure or a high-performance shower.
5. Advanced Elements Summer Shower
The Advanced Elements Summer Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a convenient and easy-to-use camping shower. This shower is designed to be lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great option for backpackers or hikers. It comes with a solar-heated shower bag that can hold up to 5 gallons of water and a foot pump to pressurize the water.
One of the best features of this camping shower is its solar-powered heating. The shower bag is made with a special material that absorbs the sun’s rays and heats the water inside, providing a warm shower experience. The foot pump allows for easy pressurization and eliminates the need for batteries.
The shower is also very easy to use, simply fill the bag with water, hang it in the sun, and use the foot pump to pressurize the water. The shower head is also adjustable to control water flow, making it easy to customize the shower to your liking.
The durability of the product is also impressive, made with high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The shower bag is made with a heavy-duty PVC material that is designed to resist punctures and abrasions.
However, one downside of this camping shower is that the water pressure may not be as high as some campers may prefer. Additionally, the water heating depends on the strength of the sun, so it may take longer to heat up on cloudy days or in areas with weaker sunlight.
Overall, the Advanced Elements Summer Shower is a great option for campers who are looking for a convenient and easy-to-use camping shower. Its solar-powered heating, portability, and easy pressurization make it a good choice for camping or backpacking trips. However, it may not be the best option for those who are looking for a high-pressure or high-performance shower.
How much do camping showers cost?
Camping showers can vary greatly in price, depending on the features and quality of the shower.
Basic portable shower bags or solar-powered shower bags can cost anywhere from $10 to $30. These types of showers are typically lightweight and easy to pack, and they may be suitable for backpackers or hikers who are looking for a simple and affordable way to stay clean while camping.
Mid-range camping showers, such as battery-powered or pressurized shower heads, can cost anywhere from $30 to $70. These types of showers typically offer more features, such as adjustable water flow and pressure, and they may be suitable for campers who are looking for a more comfortable and convenient shower experience.
High-end camping showers, such as those that use electricity or propane to heat the water, can cost anywhere from $70 to $200 or even more. These types of showers typically offer the most features and the most comfortable shower experience, but they may be less portable and more difficult to set up.
It’s worth noting that some camping showers may require additional items such as a water container, a water filter or a stand to set them up, which will also add to the overall cost of the shower.
In short, camping showers can range from as low as $10 to as high as $200 or more, depending on the features and quality of the shower. It’s important to consider your needs and budget when choosing a camping shower.
How long does a camping shower last?
The length of time a camping shower lasts will depend on several factors, including the capacity of the shower and the water flow rate.
For solar-powered camping showers, the length of time the shower lasts will depend on the amount of water in the shower bag, the strength of the sun, and the water flow rate. On a sunny day, a 5-gallon shower bag with a moderate water flow rate can last for around 20-30 minutes.
For battery-powered camping showers, the length of time the shower lasts will depend on the capacity of the battery and the water flow rate. A typical rechargeable battery can last up to 1 hour of continuous use with a moderate water flow rate.
For pressurized camping showers, the length of time the shower lasts will depend on the capacity of the water container and the water flow rate. A 5-gallon water container with a moderate water flow rate can last for around 20-30 minutes.
It’s worth noting that some camping showers may have an on/off switch, which allows you to conserve water and prolong the shower time. Additionally, some camping showers come with a pressurized foot pump that eliminates the need for batteries, and those showers can last longer than the battery powered ones.
In short, the length of time a camping shower lasts will depend on the capacity of the shower, the water flow rate, the strength of the sun, and the type of shower. On average, a solar-powered or pressurized camping shower can last for around 20-30 minutes, while a battery-powered camping shower can last for around 1 hour of continuous use.
How long does it take to heat up a solar shower?
The length of time it takes to heat up a solar-powered camping shower will depend on several factors, including the temperature of the water in the shower bag, the strength of the sun, and the size of the shower bag.
In general, it typically takes around 2-4 hours for a solar-powered camping shower to heat up in direct sunlight. The water in the shower bag will start to heat up as soon as it is exposed to the sun, but it may take longer to reach the desired temperature. The larger the shower bag, the more water it will hold, and the more time it will take to heat up.
The temperature of the water in the shower bag can also affect how quickly the water heats up. If the water is cold, it will take longer to heat up than if the water is already warm. If the water is taken from a cold stream or lake, it will take longer to heat up than water taken from a river or a lake that is exposed to sunlight.
The strength of the sun is also an important factor to consider. On a sunny day, a solar shower will heat up faster than on a cloudy day. Additionally, solar showers may heat up more quickly in areas with stronger sunlight, such as desert or tropical regions, than in areas with weaker sunlight, such as mountainous regions or northern latitudes.
It’s worth noting that some camping showers come with a thermometer to measure the water temperature, which can help you gauge how long it will take for the water to heat up.
In short, the length of time it takes to heat up a solar-powered camping shower can vary from 2-4 hours depending on the temperature of the water in the shower bag, the strength of the sun and the size of the shower bag. The actual time will depend on the specific conditions of the place you are camping and the time of the year.
What Leave No Trace principles apply to camp showers?
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is a national organization that promotes responsible outdoor behavior to protect the environment. When it comes to camp showers, there are several Leave No Trace principles that apply:
Plan ahead and prepare: Before you go camping, research the area you plan to visit to find out if there are designated shower areas or if there are any specific regulations you need to follow. Make sure you have the necessary equipment and supplies, including a shower bag or shower tent, a water container, a water filter, and a way to hang the shower.
Dispose of waste properly: Human waste should be buried in a cathole at least 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water sources. Gray water from washing dishes or taking a shower should be dispersed at least 200 feet from water sources and not left in standing pools.
Minimize campfire impact: Many camping showers use a propane or small gas heater to warm the water, be sure to follow the fire regulations and have the necessary permits to use a fire. If possible, use a solar shower, which does not require a fire. Talking about campfire, if you are planning an outdoor camping trip, you must use a campfire cooking kit to help yourself cook the best meals while camping, make sure you check it out.
Respect wildlife: Avoid using soap or shampoo in lakes or streams, as the chemicals can harm aquatic life. When washing dishes or taking a shower, be sure to disperse gray water at least 200 feet from water sources.
Be considerate of other visitors: Be aware of your surroundings and the impact your shower may have on other campers. Use designated shower areas or set up your shower in a discreet location.
By following these Leave No Trace principles, you can help protect the environment while enjoying the convenience of a camping shower. It’s important to remember that by following these principles you are also protecting yourself and other visitors while camping.
Are camp showers worth it?
Whether or not a camping shower is worth it will depend on your personal preferences and the type of camping trip you are planning.
Camping showers can be a convenient and comfortable way to stay clean while camping, especially if you are going on a longer trip or if you are camping in an area with warm temperatures. They can also be a good option for campers who are particularly sensitive to being dirty or for families with young children.
On the other hand, camping showers can be heavy and bulky to carry, and they may require additional equipment, such as a water container or a water filter. They may also require a power source, such as electricity or propane, which may not always be readily available. Additionally, some camping showers may be more expensive than others.
If you are planning a short camping trip and are comfortable with traditional camping methods such as using a lake or river to clean yourself, then a camping shower may not be necessary. It’s also important to note that camping showers are not always practical depending on the location of your camping trip.
In short, camping showers can be a convenient and comfortable way to stay clean while camping, but they can also be heavy, bulky, and require additional equipment and power sources. Whether or not a camping shower is worth it will depend on your personal preferences and the type of camping trip you are planning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, camping showers have come a long way in recent years and offer a variety of options for campers of all needs. Whether you’re looking for a solar-powered, battery-powered, or pressurized camping shower, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the convenient and easy-to-use Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower, to the versatile and durable Coleman OneSource Rechargeable Camping System, to the lightweight and solar-powered Sea to Summit Pocket Shower and Advanced Elements Summer Shower, there are plenty of options to choose from. The Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Camp Shower offers a high-performance option for those who want a more luxurious shower experience.
When choosing a camping shower, it’s important to consider your needs and budget and to research the features and reviews of different camping showers to find the best option for you. It’s also important to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment while enjoying the convenience of a camping shower. Camping showers can be a convenient and comfortable way to stay clean while camping, but they may not be necessary for everyone. Ultimately, the decision of whether a camping shower is worth it will depend on your personal preferences and the type of camping trip you are planning.
