Best Camp Shower

After days on the trail or a long day at the beach, few things feel better than a hot shower to wash off the sweat and grime. Finding the best camp shower means matching the heating method and size to the kind of trip you take.

Camp showers provide this bit of civilization in the wilderness, so you stay clean and refreshed even when off the grid. But with so many models available, how do you pick the best camp shower?

This in-depth guide covers everything you need to know to choose the ideal camping shower for your needs. We'll compare different power sources, from solar and propane to battery-powered models.

You'll learn technical specs like water capacity, flow rates, and heating power. Special features like temperature gauges and onboard storage are also covered.

By the end, you'll be able to confidently shop for camp showers, knowing which type best suits your activity. We cover what to look for in backcountry models versus family car camping showers.

Just follow our tips to invest in the perfect portable shower to keep you feeling revitalized as you explore the great outdoors.

Power source options for camping showers

The power source that heats the water is the first major decision when shopping for the best camp shower. Here are the main options:

Solar showers

Solar camp showers contain a water bladder or bag that you leave out in the sun to warm up before use. Simple and affordable, they provide off-grid washing ability for backpacking, beach trips, and anywhere with sun exposure. Leading brands are Ivation and Advanced Elements.

Propane showers

These connect to a propane tank via a burner to heat the water. Propane fuel offers adjustable temperature/pressure for shower-like performance. Propane showers work in any weather but require fuel. Mr. Heater and Coleman make popular propane camp shower models. If you are unsure how fuel behaves over time, our guide on what fuel you can use in a lantern or stove covers the basics.

Battery powered showers

Battery-powered showers run off replaceable or rechargeable batteries. This gives you control over temperature and pressure for near-real shower experiences. Battery showers drain power quickly, though, limiting duration. BioLite and Ivation offer battery-powered options.

Pressure/pump showers

Manual pressure showers use hand/foot pumps to move unheated water through a hose and shower head. Lightweight and no-frills, they're best for rinsing or washing hands/dishes when hot water isn't essential. Colorsmith and Sea to Summit make reliable pressure camp showers.

Other power sources

Some other camp shower power sources include:

• Vehicle-heated showers using an integrated heat exchanger
• Gravity showers relying on an elevated hanging position
• Hybrid propane/battery-heated showers for maximum power

How to choose the best camp shower

Following are some essential points that you should keep in mind while you are buying a camp shower. These points will help you choose the best camp shower for yourself.

Water supply and temperature

Water supply and temperature are the most important things when you are buying a camping shower. Solar and pressure showers hold a limited volume of water internally. This water should be warmed before use or remain unheated for cold rinsing.

Propane and battery showers can heat continuously from an external freshwater source for extended hot showers.

Look for adjustable heat settings if desired temperature control is a priority. Solar showers reach ambient warmth, while propane and battery models vary from cool to hot.

Size, weight, and portability

Smaller solar and pressure showers are extremely packable and lightweight for backpacking. Larger propane and battery showers offer more power and volume but weigh much more.

If going deep into the backcountry, pick a minimalist solar or pump shower. For casual camping with the car, choose a powered shower for hot water and extended runtimes per refill. Our car camping tips are a good companion for planning that kind of trip.

Capacity, flow rate and ease of setup

Capacity and flow rate

Solar and pressure showers hold 2 to 5-liter capacities before a refill is needed. Flow rates of around 1 liter per minute are common. Propane and battery showers depend on external water supply and offer higher flow, up to 2 gallons per minute for steady shower pressure.

Higher capacity equals longer showers between refills. But higher flow can drain a small tank quickly. Balance the two for your usage level.

Ease of setup and use

The best camping showers are hassle-free. Nobody wants to waste a lot of time setting up the camp showers. Solar models just need sunlight. Propane/battery models connect to power and water. Control knobs and buttons allow easy adjustment.

Simple design is also important. The fewer parts, the better to prevent breakdowns. Look for built-in hanging hooks, valves, and drains. Go for intuitive and uncomplicated.

There are also some additional points to look for when you are buying the camp showers. These are detailed below:

• Thermometers to monitor solar heating progress
• Onboard storage pockets for toiletries and accessories
• Long flexible hoses for a wider spray radius
• Shower heads with multiple settings
• Stabilizer legs to prevent tipping when full

Best camp shower reviews: solar bags

Following are the top camp showers. You can read the product reviews with their pros and cons to find the best one for yourself. It is very important that you choose the one that meets your comfort and demands. The reviews below cover the top ones, starting with solar bags.

Coleman Solar Camp Shower Review

This simple yet effective Coleman Solar Camp Shower holds 5 gallons (19 liters) of water and heats it naturally using solar power. The durable black bag absorbs heat from the sun's rays, even on cloudier days.

To use, fill the bag, then hang it by the handle using string or a hook. The shower relies on gravity to deliver a steady stream of water through the 9-foot hose when opened. An on/off valve on the shower head lets you control water flow to conserve supply during your rinse.

Weighing less than 1 kg when empty, the ultra-portable Coleman shower stuffs down small. The utilitarian vinyl stands up to outdoor use. For a fuss-free way to harness the sun for showers, this budget-friendly solar shower is a backpacker's best friend.

Pros

• Harnesses the sun's heat
• 19 liter (5 gallon) capacity
• Lightweight and packable
• Gravity powered flow
• Low cost

Cons

• Lower flow shower

Advanced Elements Summer Solar Shower Review

This thoughtfully designed Advanced Elements Solar Shower holds 11 liters for multi-day use. The four-layer pouch absorbs sunlight to generate ambient temperatures; an onboard thermometer indicates readiness.

The high-flow shower head provides consistent pressure while conserving water thanks to an integrated shutoff valve. The included reflective mirror aids warming along with the black material. A zippered side pocket holds toiletries.

While portable and lightweight when rolled up and stuffed in its carry bag, the capacity offers enough warm water for a satisfying rinse for one person. For a high-quality solar camp shower with useful extras, it's a smart choice for backpacking and weekends away.

Pros

• 11-liter capacity
• Temperature gauge
• A shutoff valve on the showerhead
• Side pocket for accessories
• Lightweight with carry bag

Cons

• The shower hose is somewhat rigid

More 20-liter solar camp showers

Companion 20L Solar Camp Shower Review

The Companion 20 Liter Solar Camp Shower provides simple, free hot water from the sun. The durable polyester shower bag has a large diameter fill opening for easy water loading.

Once warmed in direct sunlight for several hours, gravity pressure from hanging the Companion solar shower delivers ambient temperature water for a refreshing rinse. The on/off shower head helps control flow.

Weighing less than a pound, this straightforward shower saves weight and space when backpacking or camping. While not a hot luxury shower, the eco-friendly sun-heated performance gets the job done with minimal fuss.

Pros

• Harnesses free solar power
• Large 20-liter capacity
• Wide fill opening
• Weighs just 0.5 pounds
• 1-year warranty

Cons

• Requires sun and time to heat water
• Short hose limits spray radius

Oztent Solar Camp Shower Review

This budget-friendly Oztent Solar Camp Shower holds 20 liters for quick rinses on backcountry adventures. The bladder is made of heat-absorbing black polyvinyl that warms efficiently in direct sunlight.

Filling the Oztent shower is easy through the large screw top opening. Water flow is controlled via the push/pull shower head valve. Weighing just 0.5 pounds pack weight, it stuffs down small when empty.

While not a replacement for a hot, luxurious shower, the lightweight simplicity of this solar camp shower makes it easy to bring along just enough warm water for cleaning up after long days on the trail.

Pros

• Inexpensive price point
• 20-liter capacity
• Lightweight at 0.5 lbs
• Easy push/pull flow control
• 1-year warranty

Cons

• Requires ample sunlight
• Short hose limits placement

RisePro 20L Solar Camp Shower Review

This RisePro Solar Camp Shower provides 20 liters of free hot water from the sun's rays. The durable black bladder hangs anywhere and heats up to 45°C naturally when placed in direct sunlight.

An integrated thermometer makes it easy to monitor warmup progress. The attached shower head offers adjustable flow control. A convenient front pocket provides space to store shampoo or soap within arm's reach.

Lightweight, leakproof, and easy to use, the RisePro shower excels for camping trips, beach days, and outdoor excursions where you want a refreshing solar-heated rinse. Leave no trace with the power of the sun.

Pros

• Heats up to 45°C via sunlight
• Generous 20-liter capacity
• Temperature progress indicator
• Built-in shower caddy pocket
• Weighs only 0.3 kg

Cons

• Long solar heating time

Portable propane camp shower reviews

Gasland Portable Propane Camp Shower Review

The Gasland Portable Propane Camp Shower delivers hot pressurized water on demand using battery and gas power. The included shower head provides a strong flow rate of up to 8 liters per minute.

Connecting to a propane tank and 2 D cell batteries (not included), the Gasland heats continuously for warm showers anytime. Use the control knobs to adjust temperature and water flow as needed. Safety features include a burner monitoring window, auto shutoff at 77°C, and protections against common hazards.

Weighing only 4.75 kg with a carry handle and compact 44 x 30 cm footprint, this freestanding unit works anywhere and folds down nicely. For instant hot water without sunlight, it makes an excellent propane camp shower choice.

Pros

• Delivers 8 liters per minute flow rate
• Heats water instantly with propane
• Built-in safety auto shutoff
• Durable and portable
• Carry handle included

Cons

• Not ideal for windy conditions

Smarttek Portable Propane Camp Shower Review

This versatile Smarttek Portable Camp Shower delivers hot water on demand using battery and propane power. With adjustable pressure up to 750 kPa, it feels like a real shower.

The freestanding design allows placement anywhere and puts out up to 6 liters per minute flow. Use the LCD screen to precisely monitor water temperature. The multi-setting shower head adds convenience.

Safety features include auto-shutoff protection against common hazards. At 5 kg, the Smarttek camp shower hits the sweet spot of powerful yet portable. For car campers seeking a propane-powered hot shower, it's a compelling option.

Pros

• Propane heats water instantly
• Up to 6 liters per minute high-pressure flow
• Digital temperature display
• Multi-setting shower head
• Automatic safety shutoff

Cons

• Requires propane and batteries

Tankless and battery camp showers

Camplux Propane Tankless Camp Shower Review

This Camplux water heater and shower delivers 5 liters per minute of continuous hot water using propane and two D batteries. Ideal for couples or families, it heats on demand without pre-heating a reservoir.

The integrated LED display lets you dial in your precise temperature. Large buttons control useful settings like seasonal variation, gas flow, and output pressure. Safety features include auto shutoff if the flame goes out.

At under 5 kg, the Camplux tankless heater hits the sweet spot of portable yet powerful, outputting decent water flow for steady showers. It also works in all conditions, unlike solar models dependent on sunshine.

Pros

• Hot water in seconds without pre-heating
• Outputs 5 liters per minute flow
• Temperature display and settings
• Weighs only 4.75 kg
• Auto shutoff increases safety

Cons

• Stand accessory is sold separately

Devanti Propane Tankless Camp Shower Review

Devanti's tankless propane water heater and shower deliver 8 liters per minute of continuous hot water for the whole campground. Just connect to a propane tank and power with 2D batteries.

The integrated temperature LCD lets you dial in your perfect temp up to 50°C. Large control knobs make it easy to tweak heating, flow rate, and pressure as needed. The 5-foot hose even allows pets to be washed!

Lightweight yet powerful, this freestanding shower excels for casual camping and extended trips where hot water is a must. And you'll never run out, thanks to the instant continuous heating.

Pros

• Unlimited hot water on demand
• Powerful 8 litres per minute flow rate
• Adjustable up to 50°C
• 25-1000 kPa pressure range
• Only 6 kg weight

Cons

• Outdoor use only

Companion Battery Powered Camp Shower Review

This rechargeable Companion Camp Shower delivers pressurized water via battery power, so you get a steady stream wherever you go. An integrated pump sends water through the included 7-foot hose and shower head.

Powered by a built-in lithium battery, it provides up to 120 minutes of shower time when fully charged. Conveniently charge via USB or 12V car outlet. Dual shower heads give flexibility, each with an adjustable valve to control flow.

Weighing under 1 kg, this portable battery-powered shower works well for camping, RVs, hunting, and more. The cordless convenience means you don't rely on sun exposure for warm water.

Pros

• Rechargeable lithium battery
• Up to 2 hours run time
• Adjustable shower heads
• Only 0.9 kg weight
• Charges via USB or 12V

Cons

• Relatively low 2 liters per minute flow rate

Showering responsibly at camp

A shower is only as good as the way you use it. Wash well away from streams, lakes and campsites, and use as little soap as you can, even if the label says biodegradable. The Leave No Trace principles explain why: soap and grey water can harm fragile plants and water sources, so spreading used water over a wide area of durable ground is the usual advice.

Check the rules for the place you are camping, because land managers differ on what is allowed. The National Park Service is a sensible starting point for park-specific guidance. For wider preparation, our camping safety tips are worth a read, and if you camp somewhere dry, the water rules we follow in the desert will remind you how quickly a shower can eat into a water supply.

With propane models, set them up outdoors in open air and keep the burner clear of tent fabric. In my view that point gets too little attention in most buying advice, and it matters more than any spec on the box.

Choosing the right camp shower

Nothing rejuvenates like a hot shower, even when camping off the grid. With so many portable shower types and features to evaluate, just focus on your intended use. Backpacking demands ultra-light solar models, while car campers can choose powered showers.

Match your activities and group size to choose the right balance of water capacity, heating capability, and ease of use. The reviews above should help you find a camp shower with enough water capacity that is also easy for you to use.

Camp showers are an essential part of your camping. Choose wisely, because they become part of your daily routine on the trail or at the campsite. If your evenings stretch past dusk, our guide to the best camp lighting pairs well with a good shower setup. Soon, you'll find the perfect shower to stay refreshed and recharged wherever the campsite is.