How to Shower When Camping? : 21 Ways To Take a Shower
One of the most frequently requested issues by novice campers is how to shower while camping. It’s a logical question, but it’s not always straightforward. A shower is sometimes possible and sometimes not, but it is critical that you stay clean. Showering at home is simple. But how does one shower when automobile camping? Don’t worry, we discovered other alternatives.
Because of the high temperatures, people may sweat more than usual throughout the summer. It gets even worse if you’re doing outside activities like pitching a tent or trekking. In this post, I’ll discuss how to shower when camping and how to stay clean when you can’t shower.
Table of Contents
Why is it Vital to Shower While Camping?
While camping, daily showers are not common, but showering enough to remove excess dirt and oils is good. Showers remove harmful bacteria from the skin, prevent acne, and eradicate odors, all while making you feel better and allowing you to sleep better.
Showering every day may not be necessary, especially if you are not sweating or engaging in physical exercise, but daily showers are typically seen as a healthy practice.
To maintain adequate cleanliness, you should rinse off in fresh water every few days at the very least. If freshwater is not available, you will need to use an alternate way (detailed later in this piece) to shower and make your camping trip more enjoyable.
Read More: How to Shower Without a Shower Camping?
How to Prevent Body Odor While Camping?
To keep yourself clean, opt for an eco-friendly soap that will not harm wildlife or pollute waterways. Soap is useful for removing dirt and grease that accumulates after a few days of outdoor camping. This soap can also be used to wash your clothes, making you feel and smell better when camping.
You can use deodorant to keep body odor at bay and to hide any odd odors that develop on you or your clothes until you can take a bath or shower. Another tip that some campers employ is to wear merino wool, which does not absorb scents and can be worn for days before needing to be washed. For further inspiration, consider this trekking underwear and these merino wool base layer tops.
How to Find Showers While Camping
When renting a campsite online, most websites provide a search option, making it simple to determine whether your selected campground provides shower facilities on-site or nearby. There are numerous camping websites and applications that might assist in locating campsites with showers.
Here are a few of my personal favorites:
- Only net-free camping spots are available.
- Hipcamp.com (app): several paid and free camping possibilities are provided by hosts.
- iOverlander (app)- designed for boondocking, vehicle, and RV travel.
- PublicShower.directory: an excellent resource for shower options in the United States, categorized by city and state.
They are both fee-based, but if you are camping for an extended amount of time, it may be worth the pay to sleep and shower for free while meeting new people.
Read More: How Old is Camilo in Encanto?
21 Best Tips: How to Shower When Camping?
1. Showers in Public
Public showers? Who’s ever heard of them? You only have to know where to search to find public showers, which are more prevalent than you might expect.
Begin by browsing for campgrounds with public showers in their bathroom facilities. These campgrounds may be a little more expensive or even pay per use, but they are usually right on-site, just a short walk from your tent.
You can also take advantage of adjacent public showers, such as truck stops and public beaches. Showers are available at many truck stops, and most public beaches have them as well. You can wash up there if you bring a swimsuit and some soap.
2. Camping Showers by MakeShift
If you don’t have a portable camping shower, you can still create one out of the resources you do have. A huge water bottle with little holes on the bottom will provide you with just enough water to shower.
A bag with holes on the bottom will work similarly, but may not work with hot water. Hydration reservoirs will function if the mouthpiece valve is removed at the end, and they have the extra benefit of being multipurpose and something you already have packed.
3. Water Supply
We already advised against bathing near a natural water source. However, this is only true if you intend to use soapy products. You can bathe in a lake, stream, or waterfall to simply clean away natural oils and grime.
You may even come across biodegradable goods that can be used in surface water. To clean yourself, use a washcloth and a small quantity of soap. To avoid contamination, do not use too much of the product.
4. Mobile Showers
A portable shower is a ready-made solution available on Amazon. Depending on your requirements, you can choose from solar, battery, or gas portable showers.
If you are going by car or van, consider purchasing a portable shower that can be charged using the car adaptor. Ivation portable outdoor shower is one such example. It has a rechargeable lithium battery that can be charged in less than 60 minutes using a car charger or even a laptop.
If you want something different, or if you are not traveling by car, there is also a solar-powered portable shower. One famous example is the Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Shower.
Because it is fueled by solar energy, your water will not be cold. It has a water temperature gauge that will assist you determine whether the water is warm enough. It’s simple to use and includes a side pocket for soap or shampoo.
5. Solar Showers
The solar shower is similar to an insulating bag that is used to warm and store water. It includes a hose to help dump the water and showerheads. It is the most practical option, particularly for individuals who dislike bathing in cold water. Solar showers appeal to me since they are simple to fill, transport, and use.
There are several sun showers in terms of their features and elements; therefore, before selecting on one, one must consider this. Solar showers may contain up to 5 liters. They are filled with water and then placed in the sun for 3-4 hours with the clear portion facing upwards to generate heat.
I would recommend putting it on locations that absorb heat quickly, such as dark granite, or putting it on the dashboard of a car and driving while the water heats up. Absolutely. When it reaches a certain temperature, hang it on an upright in a pop-up shower tent, then hold it with your hands, or possibly on a tree limb that can take to the solar bath by the strap, or take a shower.
It is also necessary to place the clean side towards you in order to assess the amount of water available for showering. I really liked my Advanced Elements Solar Shower after using it on multiple car camping trips.
Read More: What Time in Arizona?
6. Showers and Hygiene Tents
You might want to use a hygiene tent to cover up when washing up in a campground or even in the outdoors. These are tents designed mostly for walking into and standing up in. They don’t take up much space because they are normally 4’x4′ in size.
Furthermore, because these tents typically lack a floor, water can run directly into the ground. These tents are ideal for showering and storing portable toilets. A hygiene tent is required if you intend to take a shower at your car camping spot.
When going camping in the outdoors, you might not want to bring a full hygiene tent with you. You could carry a tarp and some rope in this scenario to build your own privacy screen.
Alternatively, you may simply wear a bathing suit and bathe without removing it. This could be a simple solution if you’re car camping with strangers and don’t have a privacy tent or tarp to hand.
7. Showers That Run on Batteries
These gadgets are useful for off-grid camping during the winter seasons. The majority of campers utilize this rechargeable device.
It is a very efficient and lightweight device to transport. The battery is mostly 2200mAh and has a USB port for charging it with a 12v car converter, power bank, or even a laptop. After charging at home for 2 to 5 hours, depending on the model, it can be used for up to 60 minutes.
The best part of it features an S-style hook that allows it to be safely hung, for example, on a tree or a car window, making it hands-free. This function benefits vehicle campers with children because underage children can be bathed with two hands.
To be able to pull water from a water tank and push it via the horse pipe to the shower head, battery-operated showers must be charged. It has a very relaxing pressure on everybody, which is an added benefit. I would also advise children to utilize it.
The main drawback of this battery-powered shower is that it must be charged before use and requires an auxiliary tank or bucket. Ivation Portable Shower is a wonderful option if you desire this type of shower.
8. Showers in Water Containers
Showering with a water container is one of the finest ways to conserve water when car camping. This can be as simple as filling a jug or bucket with water and showering with it.
This saves water and might also be more comfortable than showering with a handheld sprayer. You can even take a full-body shower if you have a large enough container. Simply place the container in a secure spot where it will not be knocked over.
9. Portable Shower Tent
If you’re like me, you enjoy being outside and are willing to rough it a little if the opportunity arises. I’m sure you’ve thought to yourself, “Hey, wouldn’t it be amazing if I could shower outside?”
If you want to feel cleaner after a long day of trekking or swimming, but don’t want to haul around heavy camping gear, a pop-up shower tent is ideal! A pop-up shower tent allows you to easily build your own personal shower while camping. It’s simple to assemble and disassemble, small enough to fit in any backpack, and light enough to carry comfortably.
10. Multi-Purpose Systems
REI’s dromedary bags are a similar solution that also serves as a water purifier when not in use as a shower. These bags can be used with gravity water filters to purify water, however, they are usually black, so heat the water inside quickly, and feature a hose attachment with a showerhead. This is a terrific two-for-one deal for space-conscious travelers.
11. Roof Rack Alternatives
Check out the road showers with water tubes that attach to your vehicle’s roof racks if you favor simplicity but want the amazing feature appeal. Fill up the water reservoir before you start driving, let the sun do its work, and when you stop for the day, connect the hose for a beautiful hot shower that is pressurized by the drop in height from the roof of your SUV to the shower handle. Simple and elegant!
12. RV Shower (Indoor / Outdoor)
If you rent an RV, chances are it has a standup shower inside. And it will almost certainly be heated on demand by propane.
In addition, some RVs include an exterior shower nozzle. This is ideal for rinsing off after a day at the beach. Or for cleaning up after a rainy day trail ride.
13. Camping Showers With Pressure
A pump-action camp shower works similarly to a regular weed sprayer or water pistol in that you pressurize the container to spray out the liquid.
Pressurized showers are stronger and designed to hold and spray hot water rather than cold water or chemicals. Thicker plastic will tolerate higher temperatures, and a heavier-duty hose and nozzle will last longer.
There are several variations available, ranging from the traditional hand pump to contemporary foot pump variants. Neither of these showers requires you to hang it above your head and is intended to be used on the ground.
However, hanging the nozzle above your head will still aid you because it frees up your heads for applying soap. As a result, a foot pump is more practical than a hand pump because you can constantly press your foot down while camping, even if you’re washing your hair.
Read More: Top Attractions In New Bern, Nc – What To See And Do?
14. Sponge Bath
Even if you don’t have access to a lake or showers, a decent camper always has plenty of water. The sponge bath is one of the most basic camp showers. Scrub your body fast with any little bottle or container of water, a little soap, and a sponge.
This conservative approach ensures that you do not waste a lot of water. You can go through all of the dirtiest, stinkiest areas and rinse with modest amounts of water.
15. Electric Camping Shower
Technological advancements have resulted in the development of a new form of camping shower that will pump water electrically using a portable battery. These electric camping showers are perfect for weekend getaways, however they will need to be recharged after 45-60 minutes of use.
Simply insert the electric pump in a large container of water and use the nozzle as you would any other shower nozzle. These have a higher flow rate than a pump-action or gravity-fed system, thus they utilize water faster yet offer a better shower of water.
16. Shower with Hot Water in a Car
One of the most expensive solutions is a hot-water vehicle kit shower. A water reservoir, pump, and showerhead nozzle are included in a hot-water automobile package. The equipment connects to the engine compartment, allowing the water to be heated by outflow heat while the car is driving.
The water reservoir is also insulated. This permits heated water to maintain a comfortable shower temperature. The water reservoir contains a segmented tank of cold water, allowing you to use both hot and cold water.
Because a hot-water car kit requires you to shower just outside the vehicle, match it with a privacy tent. Adjust the temperature knobs on the water reservoir when you’re ready to shower.
Read More: The Best Cities In California For Your Next Vacation
17. Foot-Pump
In some ways, a foot-pump shower can “defy gravity.” You may prop it up on any surface and pressurize the water in the bag using a pump. Many feature hoses connected to showerheads that may be adjusted to fit your height.
You can have enough water pressure and free reign of your hands by stepping on the foot pump. They do not require batteries, hence they are less expensive. It is not the most time-efficient method because you will need to set the bag in the sun for warming.
18. Portable Heated Shower
Plan your showers around your mode of transportation. You won’t be able to bring much water with you if you’re backpacking or camping on a bike. However, if you travel by car, or even better, van, you can take a lot more water.
You won’t be able to take regular outdoor showers once winter arrives. The water grows frigid, and taking a shower outside becomes nearly impossible. Heated outdoor showers are very handy in this situation.
Such showers are difficult to transport when traveling. This is typically recommended for folks who go camping in a van or car. The Hike team portable propane water heater is an example of a heated outdoor shower like this.
It includes a shower pump as well as an auto safety shutoff. This is an excellent portable shower for all of your hiking or camping excursions. The manufacturer has also opted to include a carry case, however, we still recommend utilizing it if you intend to travel by car.
19. Taking a shower in nature
Why not make use of a nearby freshwater source? While this strategy is difficult to implement in the winter, it can be a twofold victory in the summer. You’ll be able to appreciate the beauty of a lake while also keeping your personal hygiene in check.
Look for water sources that appear to be clean. Moving waters (lakes) are often cleaner than still waters (lakes). Before you go swimming, make sure it’s not illegal to be in that body of water.
Respect nature by avoiding using shampoo in the water and by not leaving rubbish behind. If you must use shampoo, get a bucket and fill it with water. Apply the shampoo to your body, then pour the water from the bucket over yourself, taking care not to come into contact with the water source.
20. Rainy Day
Road showers are put on the vehicle’s rack system (the same system used in roof tents) over the automobile, giving it a cool aspect.
The road shower compresses instantly and can be pumped with an electric bike pump or tire inflator. It has a capacity of 5 to 10 liters. It’s incredibly adjustable, making it simple to change the water pressure.
It absorbs light and raises the temperature of the water. However, it is possible to use cold water in any case. The disadvantage of the street shower is that it is pricey and needs the installation of a roof rack.
21. Showers in Public
Public showers? Who’s ever heard of them? You only have to know where to search to find public showers, which are more prevalent than you might expect.
Begin by browsing for campgrounds with public showers in their bathroom facilities. These campgrounds may be a little more expensive or even pay per use, but they are usually right on-site, just a short walk from your tent.
You can also take advantage of adjacent public showers, such as truck stops and public beaches. Showers are available at many truck stops, and most public beaches have them as well. You can wash up there if you bring a swimsuit and some soap.
What Do You Need For a Shower While Camping?
1. Towel
That is quick drying. There is something like this. We’d like to think we’ve explained the ideal approach to shower on your next outdoor adventure, primarily while car camping.
It comprises the necessities you should bring with you. Maintain our cleanliness and have more fun. When camping, you do not need to look for public showers.
2. Hairspray
The finest camping shampoo is one that smells nice and performs well for your hair type. Choose a shampoo that does not leave any residue on your hair and does not leave your hair very soft or scratchy after washing. Choose a biodegradable shampoo to help the earth.
3. Soap
When going camping, always bring at least one bar of soap with you so that you can clean up after having a shower. Make certain that the soap does not contain any scents or additives, as these might cause skin irritation during the hot summer months when you are exposed to sunlight for lengthy periods of time. Purchase a biodegradable soap.
4. Cups for Suction Hooks
This is a device that helps you hang your towels or garments while showering and keeps them dry. It is an excellent place to hang soap or carry luggage.
5. Flip-Flops
Most outdoor showers are unreliable and frequented by people who may not take as much interest in their hygiene as you do. Wear flip-flops that can protect you from hazardous insects, items, and bacteria to assure your safety. If you’re a beginner, don’t bring your Gucci sliders!
6. Shower Curtain
Because most areas are open, it is a large piece of fabric that can be folded over a spring rod to increase seclusion. It offers a bathroom-like environment in which they can shower in their preferred manner.
7. The Spring Rod
This rod is designed to twist into a pleasant shape, such as a rectangle. This rod can be used to connect the curtain to make an appealing bathroom. If the hook is not attached with suction cups, it can be used to hang towels.
8. Towel Holder
This allows you to hang a damp towel in your tent or on a tree branch. They are almost weightless and take up very little room, so bringing some of these with you is not a huge deal.
9. Mats for The Floor
A floor mat of some kind is also a terrific idea to give yourself more showering alternatives while also keeping your feet clean. Rubber welcome mats, RV sand mats, or snap-together foam or teak tiles can all be used to make a quick spot to stand and stay out of the mud created by your shower.
How Do You Wash Your Long Hair While Camping?
Long hair is stunning, but it may be a nightmare to manage while camping. It doesn’t have to be that way. Make preparations to give your hair some time, and you’ll discover that it looks stunning no matter where you go.
Before turning off the water in the shower, completely bathe your hair from roots to tip. Use an environmentally friendly shampoo or conditioner and massage your scalp. After that, thoroughly rinse.
If you don’t have a lot of water or a tiny reservoir for your shower water, concentrate your hair wash showers on your hair and only take care of the important regions on you for that session. If you don’t have a shower but need to wash your hair, ask a buddy to assist you by pouring water over your head.
Read More: 10 Best Places to Visit in Kerala
Personal Safety and Hygiene
Did you know that the aroma of your soaps, deodorants, lotions and other personal hygiene items might attract bears and other animals? While it’s uncommon, a bear may smash through your campground simply because he scented your lip balm or toothpaste.
Put these items in your bear canister and hang it in a tree or place it the required distance away from you when camping. Put these goods in your food locker if you’re car camping at a state or national park. Backpacker’s resident bear even advises against using deodorant when camping in the bear areas.
I only bring unscented personal hygiene products with me. These are available at most sporting goods stores. They keep you clean and protected from animals who would otherwise think you smell wonderful.
Last Thoughts
Camping is a lovely, enjoyable hobby, but let’s face it: it can be a little unpleasant and dirty at times. When camping, learning how to shower can save you time and energy. Always be prepared, as the saying goes, and you’ll be ok.
How do you keep clean while camping? I’d love to hear your ideas in the comments section!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about How to Shower When Camping?
Do Campgrounds Have Showers?
A normal campsite does not have a shower, however many campsites provide showers within walking distance. Many campsites, however, will provide water hookups that you may use to fill up your camping shower without leaving your campsite.
When a campsite has water, it will be labeled “full hookup” or “water only.” Either of these options will provide you with a water-supplied campground.
Is it Possible to Rent Portable Shower Cabins When Camping?
Yes! The WolfWise 6.6FT Portable Pop-Up Shower Privacy Tent is one such example. This tent is both waterproof and lightweight. You can maintain your privacy while remaining fresh.
How Much Do Portable Showers Cost?
No, you can find them for as little as $10 and as much as $200. Top-tier models include temperature adjustment, led status, and other features. Even a homemade shower might work wonders on a brief camping vacation.
When You Go Camping, How Do You Wash Your Face?
The rustic camping, biodegradable soap or facial wipes are the best options for cleansing your face. When camping at a campground with conventional bathrooms, bring your regular soap and wash your face in the bathroom sink.
How Do You Shower While Camping in The Winter?
You should invest in a heated portable shower. There is also a less expensive variant that allows you to use dry shampoo and bathing wipes. You may get moisture-wicking clothing that absorbs sweat, which is very useful in the cold.
Read More: Why You Should Visit The Majestic Okavango Delta
How to Heat Water in a Portable Shower?
Some portable showers have a heater, while others run on solar power. Personally, I recommend acquiring ones that can be charged via a car charger.
How Do You Poop When You’re Camping?
When possible, use outhouses, pit toilets, and other marked facilities. Always bury your excrement in a cathole that is at least 6-8′′ (15.2-20.3 cm) deep, but never bury or burn your toilet paper. Tampons and pads, as well as other feminine hygiene products, should always be packed.
How Do You Shower While Camping in The Winter?
To shower in the cold, you must heat the water and allow it to flow from the top. You may use any bottle or container to take a gravity shower while boiling water on the stove. You can use a solar camping shower if it is sunny outside. Campers also enjoy using propane tank showers.
How Long Can You Go Without Taking a Shower?
“If your skin isn’t dry, you could reduce it to every other day or so.” However, if you take it from a licensed germ specialist, you can avoid showering for as long as you like.
How’s it going, Thrower in a Tent Camping?
Bring your own portable camping shower, if you have one. If you’re using soap, choose a location at least 200 feet away from any bodies of water, hang it from a tree, let the sun warm the water up during the day, and then rinse off when you return from your activities.
How Should You Shower While Camping?
It’s difficult to tell which is the finest, but there are numerous options, including portable showers, DIY showers, campground bathhouses, and so on.
What Happens to the Water in a Camping Shower?
These capture systems keep your shower runoff, popularly known as “gray water,” until it can be dumped into a container and brought to a specified spot on the campsite for disposal.
