Perfect Camping Shower to Stay Fresh Outdoors
When heading out on a camping trip, keeping clean can be tricky. Whether you're exploring the Australian outback, staying at a caravan park by the coast, or camping in a national park, a portable camping shower can make things more comfortable.
This guide will help you choose the right portable camping shower so you can stay fresh on your next adventure.
Types of Portable Camping Showers
The market offers a variety of portable camping showers to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some common types you'll encounter:
Solar Camping Shower
These portable camping showers use the sun's energy to heat water. They typically consist of a black bag or container that absorbs solar heat. Solar camping showers are eco-friendly and don't require batteries or fuel, making them ideal for longer trips.
Pump Camping Shower
These manual camping showers use a hand or foot pump to pressurise water. They're simple to use and don't rely on electricity, making them suitable for remote locations.
Battery-Powered Camping Shower
This camping shower uses a battery-operated pump to draw water from a container and provide consistent water pressure. They're convenient but require you to keep spare batteries or a way to recharge.
Pressure Camping Shower
These use pressurised containers to deliver a steady stream of water. You typically pressurise them manually using a pump before use.
Gravity Camping Shower
The simplest type relies on gravity to provide water flow. They're often in the form of a bag that you hang from a tree or a camping shower stand.
Propane Heated Camping Shower
These camping showers use propane to heat water on demand. They provide hot water quickly but require you to carry propane tanks.
USB Rechargeable Camping Shower
A newer option, these rechargeable camping showers have a pump powered by a rechargeable battery that you can charge via USB. They're convenient for shorter trips or if you have a power bank.
Each type has its advantages and drawbacks, so consider your specific needs when choosing.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Camping Shower
Selecting the right camping shower for your camping needs involves weighing several factors:
- Water Capacity: Consider how much water the portable camping shower can hold or how easily it can be connected to an external water source. This is particularly important for longer trips or larger groups.
- Heating Method: Do you prefer a portable camping shower that heats water using solar energy, batteries, or propane? Your choice may depend on your camping style and the climate you'll be in.
- Water Pressure: Some campers prefer a strong, invigourating spray, while others are content with a gentle flow. Check the pressure specifications of different portable camping shower models.
- Portability and Weight: If you're backpacking or have limited space in your RV, a compact and lightweight camping shower is essential. You might go for a larger, more feature-rich model for car camping or caravan trips.
- Ease of Use: Look for simple camping showers to set up and operate. Complex systems might be frustrating in the field.
- Durability: Your camping shower should withstand outdoor conditions. Look for robust materials and good build quality.
- Power Source: Consider whether you'll have access to electricity for recharging, or if you need a portable camping shower that operates without power.
- Temperature Control: Some caravan and camping showers offer adjustable temperature settings, which can be a nice luxury in varying weather conditions.
- Additional Features: Some camping showers come with extras like built-in soap dispensers, multiple spray settings, or integrated water filtration systems.
- Price: Determine your budget. While it's often worth investing in quality gear, there are options available at various price points.
By considering these factors, you can find a portable camping shower that aligns with your outdoor lifestyle and enhances your camping experience.
Camping Shower Water Pressure and Capacity
Water pressure and capacity are two key factors that can significantly impact your camping shower experience. Here's a comparison of different shower types:
- Gravity Camping Showers
- Pressure: Low to moderate, depending on height
- Capacity: Typically 2-5 gallons (7.5-19 liters)
- Best for: Basic rinsing, conservation-minded campers
- Pump Camping Showers
- Pressure: Moderate, depends on pumping effort
- Capacity: Varies, often uses an external water source
- Best for: Campers who want control over water flow
- Battery-Powered Camping Showers
- Pressure: Moderate to high
- Capacity: Varies, often uses an external water source
- Best for: Those wanting a shower experience similar to home
- Pressure Camping Showers
- Pressure: High
- Capacity: Usually 2-3 gallons (7.5-11 liters)
- Best for: Campers who prioritise strong water flow
- Propane Heated Camping Showers
- Pressure: Moderate to high
- Capacity: Often unlimited if connected to a water source
- Best for: Long-term campers or those prioritising hot showers
Remember, higher pressure often means faster water usage, so balance your desire for pressure with your water conservation needs.
Setting Up Your Camping Shower
Setting up your portable camping shower correctly can enhance your outdoor bathing experience. Here's a general guide:
- Choose the Right Location
- Find a spot with good drainage to avoid creating mud
- Ensure privacy, by using natural features or a camping shower tent
- If using a solar shower, place it in direct sunlight
- Prepare the Water
- Fill your shower container with water from a clean source
- If using a solar camping shower, fill it and place it in the sun early in the day
- Set Up the Camping Shower Structure
- If using a camping shower stand, ensure it's stable on the ground
- For hanging showers, find a sturdy tree branch or use a portable stand
- Connect Components
- Attach the showerhead to the water container
- If using a pump or battery-powered system, ensure all connections are secure
- Test Before Use
- Run a small amount of water to check pressure and temperature
- Make any necessary adjustments
- Prepare Your Bathing Area
- Set up a non-slip mat if you have one
- Keep toiletries, towels, and clean clothes within reach but protected from water
- Conservation Measures
- Consider using biodegradable soap to minimise environmental impact
- Have a system for capturing and properly disposing of greywater
By following these steps, you can create a comfortable and efficient camping shower setup in the great outdoors.
Best Camping Showers for Different Trip Durations
The ideal camping shower can vary depending on the length of your trip. Here are some recommendations:
For Weekend Trips
Simple Solar Camping Shower Bag
- Easy to pack and use
- Sufficient for short trips
- Example: Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Camping Shower
Portable Pressure Camping Shower
- Quick to set up and use
- Good for those who prefer higher-pressure
- Example: Nemo Helio Pressure Camping Shower
For Week-Long Adventures
Battery-Powered Camping Shower
- Consistent performance throughout the week
- Rechargeable options available
- Example: Ivation Portable Outdoor Camping Shower
Advanced Solar Camping Shower
- Larger capacity for longer trips
- Some models include temperature gauges
- Example: Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Solar Camping Shower
For Extended Camping or RV Living
Propane Instant Hot Water Camping Shower
- Provides hot water on demand
- Suitable for long-term use
- Example: Camplux 5L Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater
High-Capacity Solar Camping Shower
- Eco-friendly option for extended trips
- Large water capacity
- Example: Sea to Summit 10L Solar Camping Shower
Remember, these are general recommendations. Your specific needs may vary based on your camping style, group size, and personal preferences.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Portable Camping Shower
Proper maintenance of your camping shower ensures its longevity and hygiene. Here are some tips:
- After Each Use
- Empty the shower to prevent mould and bacteria growth.
- Wipe down the shower bag or container to remove any soap residue.
- Allow all components to dry thoroughly before storing.
- Deep Cleaning
- Periodically clean the camping shower with a mild soap solution.
- For solar showers, use warm water and gentle scrubbing to clean the interior.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.
- Checking for Damage
- Regularly inspect for leaks, tears, or worn parts.
- Replace any damaged components promptly.
- Winterising
- For battery-powered camping showers, remove batteries before long-term storage
- Ensure the shower is completely dry before storing it for winter.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Hose and Nozzle Care
- Clear any clogs in the showerhead or hose.
- For pumps, lubricate as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Proper Storage
- Store your camping shower in a dedicated bag to protect it from punctures.
- Keep it easily accessible for your next camping trip.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure your portable camping shower remains in good condition for many outdoor adventures to come.
Creative DIY Camping Shower Ideas
For the inventive camper, creating a DIY camping shower can be a fun project. Here are some creative ideas:
- Bucket Camping Shower
- Materials: 5-gallon bucket, shower head, hose, small submersible pump
- How-to: Attach the shower head to the hose, connect the hose to the pump, and place the pump in the water-filled bucket. Use a battery or solar panel to power the pump.
- Garden Sprayer Camping Shower
- Materials: Large garden sprayer, shower head
- How-to: Replace the spray nozzle on a garden sprayer with a shower head. Pump to pressurise and enjoy your shower.
- Gravity Bag Camping Shower
- Materials: Large dry bag, hose, shower head, rope
- How-to: Install a hose fitting at the bottom of the dry bag, and attach the hose and shower head. Fill with water and hang from a tree.
- Solar Heating Coil Camping Shower
- Materials: Black garden hose, barrel, or container
- How-to: Coil the hose on a board painted black. Connect one end to your water container and the other to a shower head. The sun heats the water as it passes through the coil.
- PVC Pipe Camping Shower Stand
- Materials: PVC pipes and fittings, shower curtain
- How-to: Create a frame with PVC pipes to hold your shower bag and curtain for privacy.
- Thermos Camping Shower
- Materials: Large thermos, hose, shower head
- How-to: Modify the thermos lid to attach a hose and shower head. Fill with hot water for a warm shower.
- Foot Pump Camping Shower
- Materials: Foot pump, bucket, hose, shower head
- How-to: Connect the foot pump to a hose and shower head. Place the intake in a bucket of water and pump with your foot for water flow.
Remember, when creating DIY showers, ensure all connections are watertight and the structure is stable. Always prioritise safety and practice Leave No Trace principles when camping.
Conclusion
A portable camping shower can make your outdoor trips a lot more comfortable, whether you're going camping for the weekend, taking a long RV journey across Australia, or anything in between. You can choose from solar-powered or battery-operated showers, both bringing a touch of home to your outdoor adventures.
When planning your next camping trip, think about adding a portable camping shower to your gear. It might quickly become one of your favourite items, helping you stay clean and refreshed while exploring Australia’s great outdoors.
Visit RV Online today to find the perfect portable camping shower for your next adventure!
