The 5 Best Solar Showers For Camping and Mobile Living
When you are out camping, the last thing you want to do is take a cold shower. And if you are living in a van or RV, chances are you don’t have access to hookups for water and electricity. That’s where solar showers come in!
Solar showers use the power of the sun to heat up water, so all you need is access to sunlight and some H2O. In this article, we will be discussing five different solar showers that would be perfect for your next camping trip or mobile living situation.
So whether you are looking for a solar shower with great water filtration or one that heats up quickly, we have got you covered. Read on for the five best solar showers for camping and mobile living!
The best solar showers for camping
1. Advanced Elements Summer Shower
Overview
The Advanced Elements Summer Shower is a high-quality, 4-ply outdoor shower designed to heat water quickly in the sun. With a generous 5-gallon capacity, an easy-to-read temperature gauge, and an integrated toiletry pouch, this summer shower provides an excellent outdoor bathing experience.
Highlights & Benefits
- 4-Ply Construction: Reflector panel and insulator panel optimize heat retention and performance.
- Large Capacity: 5-gallon capacity designed to heat water quickly in the warm sun.
- Temperature Gauge: Easy-to-read gauge shows when your shower is warm, heating up to 110 degrees in under 3 hours in direct sunlight.
- Added Convenience: Integrated toiletry pouch holds razor, mirror, or travel shampoo bottles, and Velcro straps keep your washcloth handy.
Pricing
The Advanced Elements Summer Shower is priced at $49.99. You can find it here.
In a Nutshell
Upgrade your outdoor shower experience with the Advanced Elements Summer Shower. Perfect for camping, beach trips, or backyard fun, this shower provides a warm, enjoyable bathing experience. Get yours today!
2. Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower
Overview
The Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower is a practical and affordable outdoor shower solution that can hold enough water for multiple showers, making it perfect for camping trips, festivals, and other outdoor adventures.
Highlights & Benefits
- 5-gallon capacity, providing enough water for multiple showers
- Manufactured in China, ensuring quality and reliability
- Meets the requirements of outdoor enthusiasts seeking a solar shower solution
- Easy-to-use and portable design, suitable for various outdoor activities
Pricing
The Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower is priced at $16.99. Click here to check the latest price.
In a Nutshell
The Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower is an excellent choice for those who need an affordable and effective solar shower for their outdoor adventures. Don’t miss out on this great deal – grab your Coleman Solar Shower now!
3. Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower
Overview
The Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower is a lightweight, compact, and easy-to-use PVC shower designed to store enough water for multiple showers, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who value convenience and simplicity.
Highlights & Benefits
- Lightweight PVC material, perfect for easy transportation and storage
- Approximately 5-gallon (18.9 L) capacity, providing enough water for multiple showers
- Compact design with a cord for easy hanging and accessibility
- Solar-heated, ensuring a comfortable shower experience in the outdoors
Pricing
The Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower is priced at $11.99. Click here to check the latest price.
In a Nutshell
The Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower is an excellent option for campers and hikers who need a convenient and budget-friendly solar shower solution. Don’t miss out on this amazing value – get your Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower now!
4. KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag
Overview
The KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag is an eco-friendly and leak-proof solar shower designed to provide a refreshing outdoor shower experience. With its high water capacity and heat-absorbing design, it’s perfect for camping, hiking, backpacking, and other outdoor activities.
Highlights & Benefits
- Heat-absorbing design, heating water to 113°F (45°C) in 3 hours with direct sunlight
- Made with environmentally friendly and leak-proof materials, safe for human health
- 5-gallon water capacity, providing ample water for outdoor showers
- Comes with useful accessories, including a hose, shower head, and water tap
- Upgraded shower head with easy on/off switch and adjustable water flow
- Ideal for camping, hiking, backpacking, self-driving, fishing, or hunting
Pricing
The KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag is priced at $25.99. Click here to check the latest price.
In a Nutshell
The KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures and need a convenient, eco-friendly shower solution. Don’t miss out on this excellent product – get your KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag now!
5. PAOOTICI Camping Shower Bag
Overview
The PAOOTICI Camping Shower Bag is a portable and versatile solar shower that heats water quickly, offers an upgraded shower head, and includes a handy storage bag for a better outdoor shower experience.
Highlights & Benefits
- Heat-absorbing design, heating water to 113°F (45°C) in 3 hours with direct sunlight
- Lightweight and foldable design for easy carrying
- Upgraded shower head with easy-to-open/close switch and adjustable water flow
- 5-gallon water capacity for enjoyable outdoor showers
- Front pocket storage for soap, shampoo, and other shower accessories
- Durable design with a powerful handle and reinforced plastic tube
Pricing
The PAOOTICI Camping Shower Bag is priced at $19.99. Click here to check the latest price.
In a Nutshell
The PAOOTICI Camping Shower Bag is an excellent choice for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who need a convenient and efficient solar shower option. Don’t miss out on this great value – get your PAOOTICI Camping Shower Bag now!
What are the benefits of using a solar shower for camping?
1. Portable and lightweight
A solar shower for camping offers many features and benefits, including portability, ease of setup, and convenience. The black exterior does a good job of absorbing the midday sun for a warm evening shower. The convenience of these solar showers makes them perfect for camping and other outdoor activities.
2. Fast and easy to set up
Solar Showers are very easy to set up, as all you need to do is fill it and layout it in the sun, clear side up. However, this type of shower may take a bit of time to heat up. In conclusion, the time and effort taken to set up a solar shower for camping depend on the size and type of shower chosen.
3. Save money on utility bills
Using a solar shower helps save money on utility bills by eliminating the need to use electricity to heat up the water, as the shower relies on the sun’s energy to heat the water. This is a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective option compared to traditional showers, as it does not require any additional energy to heat the water.
Solar showers also require less maintenance, as they do not rely on any electricity or plumbing to function. Additionally, the heat retention technology used in solar showers ensures that the water stays hot even after long periods of exposure to the sun.
4. Doesn’t require a connection to an external water source
A solar shower for camping is an ideal choice for those looking for a way to keep clean on outdoor trips. This type of shower is designed to be easy to fill, use and store and provides a reasonable amount of water capacity. The solar heated water makes it an environmentally friendly option and it is always hot unless you are in Alaska.
Additionally, it is out of the way of your living space, so you don’t have to worry about getting your shower out at camp as it is already out. With the variety of sizes available, you can find a solar shower that fits your needs.
Furthermore, with products in stock and a money-back guarantee, you can be sure that you are getting a quality product. The features and conveniences offered by these showers make them ideal for camping and any other outdoor activities.
5. Can be used in a variety of settings and situations, including campgrounds, RVers, emergencies and outdoor activities
A solar shower can be used in a variety of settings and situations, such as camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor adventures. It is a great tool for those who are looking to keep clean and don’t have access to a shower.
Solar showers are perfect for car camping and can be used to wash dishes, rinse off sand and dirt from gear, and take a refreshing shower.
With its large 10-gallon capacity, this shower is designed to heat up quickly in the sun, and is made of durable four-layer construction with two long shower hoses and an on/off shower head valve. It even comes with a pocket for shampoo and soap and extra-large filling valve with a twist-off cap, wide carrying handles, and grommet tie-downs for secure storage. Solar showers are also covered by a one-year manufacturer warranty.
6. Option to conserve water when camping
Using a solar shower when camping can help conserve water by reducing the need to use a larger amount of water when taking a shower. Unlike traditional showers, solar showers are heated by the sun, so they can be filled with a smaller amount of water and still provide a pleasant shower experience.
Additionally, solar showers are designed with a water-saving shower head, which helps to minimize the amount of water that is used during a shower. With a solar shower, campers can enjoy a hot shower while also doing their part to conserve water.
What factors should you consider when choosing a solar shower for your next camping and outdoor adventure?
1. Size and Capacity
When selecting a solar shower for camping, size and capacity are two major factors to consider. Solar showers range in capacity from 2.5 gallons to 10 gallons, with the 5-gallon capacity being the most popular.
Depending on your needs, a 5-gallon solar shower will provide enough water for multiple showers, or if you want a larger capacity, there are some solar showers that offer up to 10 gallons, which lasts for a longer shower.
The size of the solar shower is also important, especially for portability. The smallest and lightest solar shower is the Pocket Shower, which is a little over 5 ounces, making it suitable for backpacking. The biggest drawback is that it only has a 2.5-gallon capacity.
On the other hand, the Solar Shower with a large 10-gallon capacity, making it ideal for larger groups or families of campers, but it is much heavier and less easily portable.
2. Functionality
When looking for the best solar shower for camping and outdoor adventures, there are certain functionality considerations to keep in mind.
- Firstly, capacity is an important factor to consider as you would want a solar shower with enough storage capacity to take a proper shower. Most solar showers are rated for up to 5 gallons or 20 liters of water, although a few might offer even higher capacity.
- Secondly, you should also check its maximum water temperature rating as you would want the water to be hot. All solar showers are rated for a water temperature of up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Thirdly, you should also check the durability and warranty of solar showers so that they can last you for a long time. Most of these showers are made out of PVC for durable construction and usually have 1 year of warranty.
- Lastly, you should also consider the size and weight of the solar shower for convenience as some showers might be too bulky to carry around with you. The Pocket Shower is the smallest and lightest solar shower available, with a capacity of 2.5 gallons and weighing a little over 5 ounces.
3. Durability
When assessing the durability of a solar shower for camping, there are a few key factors that should be taken into consideration.
- Firstly, the construction of the solar shower should be checked to ensure that it is made out of a durable material such as PVC.
- Additionally, the capacity of the solar shower should be considered to make sure it can store enough water for multiple showers.
- Finally, the warranty of the product should be checked to ensure that it is long enough to ensure longevity.
In comparison, most solar showers are made out of PVC and usually come with a 1-year warranty. However, there are a few models that offer a longer 2-4 year warranty for extra reliability.
Additionally, the capacity of the solar showers can range from 2.5-10 gallons, depending on what you need. Therefore, it is important to choose a solar shower that is both reliable and meets your needs when it comes to capacity.
4. Safety Features
Solar showers are great for taking a hot shower in remote areas, but safety is always a concern when dealing with water and heat. Thankfully, most solar showers come with safety features like a temperature limiter that prevents the water from becoming too hot, as well as a secure valve to prevent leakage.
Additionally, many solar showers are made with PVC for a durable construction that can withstand outdoor elements. These features can give you some peace of mind when using a solar shower, making them a great option for outdoor showers.
5. Price of Solar Showers
Solar shower prices can differ significantly, ranging from budget-friendly 2.5-gallon models to higher-end 10-gallon options. While affordability may be tempting, consider product quality and reviews to gauge dependability and long-term value. Prices vary between $15 and $70 and even more.
6. Weight and Packability
When weighing the weight and packability of a solar shower for camping, there are several important factors to consider.
- First, consider the size of the shower. The larger the solar shower, the more water it can hold, but the more it will weigh. The smaller the solar shower, the lighter it will be, but it will have less capacity.
- Secondly, consider the heating method. Some solar showers use manual heating, while others use only solar heating.
- The solar heated showers will be more efficient, but they may be heavier than the manual ones. Finally, consider any additional features that can affect the weight and packability of the solar shower, such as a carrying case or a hanging cord.
- Each of these features can make the solar shower more convenient to transport and use, but they may also add some weight. Comparing and contrasting the weight and packability of various solar showers can help you find the best one for your camping needs.
7. Hose Connections & Length
When selecting a solar shower for camping and outdoor adventures, it is important to consider the hose length. The hose length should be long enough to reach where you want to shower. It is also important to consider the type of solar shower you are purchasing. A solar shower with a hose connection is easier to use than a solar shower with a sprayer.
8. Pressure Control Valve
Having a pressure control valve is an important factor to consider when choosing a solar shower for camping and outdoor adventures. It is important to have a pressure control valve because it allows you to control the pressure of the water coming from the shower, ensuring that the water pressure is not too high and that the shower is not overpressured.
This is especially important when using a solar shower with a larger capacity tank, as the increased capacity makes it easier for the tank to become overpressurized if not controlled correctly. Additionally, the pressure control valve provides a safer showering experience, as it prevents the possibility of scalding from overly hot water.
Finally, having a pressure control valve ensures that your shower is used efficiently, as it allows the user to adjust the pressure to the desired level with ease.
9. Temperature Gauge
When choosing a solar shower for camping, temperature is an important factor to consider. The temperature of the solar shower will determine how hot the water will be, how quickly it will heat up, and how long it will stay hot.
A solar shower rated for a higher temperature will be able to heat up faster and keep the water at a comfortable temperature for longer.
Additionally, a higher temperature will ensure that the water does not become too cold for a comfortable shower, making for a more enjoyable camping experience.
Wrapp up
A solar shower is one of those great camping gear inventions that makes you wonder how you ever camped without one. They are perfect for mobile living, whether you are van-dwelling, RVing, or just enjoy spending time in the great outdoors.
We hope our guide has helped you find the best solar shower for your needs. Be sure to check out the links above for our top picks. Thanks for reading!
FAQ
What are the pros and cons of solar showers for camping?
Solar showers offer a convenient, affordable, and effective way to stay clean while camping, but there are some things to consider when selecting and using one. The pros of using a solar shower include portability and convenience, as they are lightweight and easily packable for camping or backpacking. They are also a great way to heat water for washing dishes and rinsing off sand and dirt from gear. Furthermore, they can be easily hung from a tree for a gravity-fed, hot shower.
However, there are drawbacks to using solar showers for camping. They can get very hot, over 120°F, so it is important to check the temperature before stepping in. Additionally, the solar shower bag is usually made of PVC, which can be quite durable but may not be the most eco-friendly option. Finally, the shower capacity may be limited depending on the size of the bag, with the smallest option only having a 2.5-gallon capacity.
Overall, solar showers are a great way to stay clean while camping and are a convenient, affordable, and effective option. However, it is important to consider the pros and cons before making a purchase.
How many gallons of water do solar showers for camping hold?
Solar showers for camping typically hold between 2.5 and 10 gallons of water, with the most common size being 5 gallons.
For a single shower, this amount of water should be enough for a good clean, but for multiple showers, it is recommended to not exceed the 5-gallon capacity as the water is heavy and can be difficult to lift. There are also smaller 2.5-gallon solar shower bags that are lightweight and portable, making them a good option for backcountry or hiking camping.
How quickly do solar showers for camping heat water?
Solar showers for camping can heat water relatively quickly. In a study conducted by the Florida Solar Energy Center in 2004, water heated to a warm temperature for around three hours when placed in direct sunlight on an 80-degree Fahrenheit day. However, the heat loss is significant, and the water may not be able to reach higher temperatures than 105 degrees Fahrenheit within this time.
What type of warranty do solar showers for camping have?
Solar showers for camping usually come with a 1-year warranty, although some models may have longer warranties, like 2 or 4 years. To ensure the durability and reliability of the solar shower, it is usually constructed from PVC and provides heat-locking material that warms the water when exposed to sunlight, even on colder days.
Additionally, most solar showers are rated for a water temperature of up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit and come with a strong handle for hanging and carrying as well as an on/off shower head valve to help conserve water.
Are solar showers for camping easy to transport?
Yes, solar showers for camping are easy to transport. Most solar showers are designed to be lightweight and compact, allowing them to be easily stored in a backpack or campervan. Additionally, many solar showers come with the necessary materials and tools for easy setup and mounting.
How durable are solar showers for camping?
Solar showers for camping come in a range of styles, materials, and sizes, and it is important to consider their durability when making your choice. While PVC is strong and the most common material used to make solar showers, some models come backed by 1, 2, or even 4-year-long warranties for extra peace of mind.
What features should I look for when buying a solar shower for camping?
When buying a solar shower for camping, there are several features to consider to ensure the best experience. Capacity is important to look at, as you want a solar shower that can store enough water for a proper shower. You should also consider the water temperature, as most solar showers are rated for up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit. Durability and warranty are also important factors, so look for solar showers made of PVC with a minimum 1-year warranty. Additionally, it’s important to check the size and weight of the solar shower, as some are lighter and smaller than others. Lastly, make sure the solar shower comes with a thermometer so you can check the temperature of the water before you shower.
Are solar showers for camping easy to set up?
Yes, solar showers for camping are quite easy to set up and use. To set up a solar shower, you will need to find a suitable spot to hang the shower, fill it with water, and then let the sun heat it up.
For a manual shower, you’ll need to heat up the water yourself, but there are a few different ways you can do this. One of the easiest and most convenient ways is by using a solar shower.
Once you have the solar shower mounted and filled, you are ready to go. The shower can be used to take showers, wash dishes, and rinse off sand and dirt from your gear. Once you are done, you can easily empty, clean, dry, and store the solar shower.
