How to Shower When Camping: A Comprehensive Guide
When you go camping, one of the things you have to figure out is how to shower. It can be a little tricky, but it’s definitely doable! In this guide, we will answer all of your questions about how to shower when camping. We’ll show you how to maintain clean and pleasant while being in nature. So read on for all the information you need to make your next camping trip as comfortable as possible!
Why showering while camping is important
There are a few reasons. First, it helps you stay clean and comfortable. Secondly, it can be a great way to relax after a long day of hiking or exploring. Finally, showering can help keep you safe from diseases that might be present in the wilderness.
There are a few different ways to shower while camping. One popular method is using a portable shower bag or camp shower. Another option is to find a natural water source, such as a river or lake, and take a dip.
If you choose to go with the portable camp shower, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure you set up your shower in an area that is away from your campsite. This will help prevent any unwanted visitors from coming into your campsite while you are showering. Secondly, be sure to hang up your shower bag or camp shower so that the water does not touch the ground. This will help keep the water clean and free of dirt and debris. Finally, always remember to turn off the camp shower when you are finished using it.
When taking a dip in a natural water source, there are also a few things to keep in mind. First, be sure to choose a spot that is away from any potential sources of pollution, such as a sewage treatment plant or factory. Secondly, be sure to check the water for any signs of pollution, such as an oily sheen or floating debris. Finally, be sure to rinse off after swimming in any natural water source. [1]
Camping Hygiene
Showering while camping can be difficult, but it is possible with a little planning and effort. Here are some tips on how to shower when camping.
Determine your personal bathing needs for proper camping hygiene
How often you need to shower when camping really depends on your personal hygiene habits. If you are someone who feels the need to shower daily, then by all means, continue doing so while camping! However, if you don’t mind going a day or two without showering, then that’s perfectly fine too. Just make sure that you’re still practicing good hygiene habits like brushing your teeth and using deodorant.
There are a few things to consider when deciding how often to shower while camping. One is the type of campsite you’re staying at. If you’re car camping in a developed campground with flush toilets and running water, then it’s probably easier for you to take a daily shower than if you’re backpacking in the wilderness. Another thing to consider is the weather. If it’s hot and sticky out, you might want to shower more often than if it’s cool and dry.
Finally, think about your activity level while camping. If you’re doing a lot of hiking and sweating during the day, you might want to shower in the evening to feel clean and refreshed. On the other hand, if you’re just hanging out at the campsite, you might not need to shower as often.
Consider your water usage while maintaining good camping hygiene
Water Conservation Techniques
Let’s talk about water conservation techniques. One way to save water is by using a solar shower. These can be easily hung from a tree and will heat up throughout the day, providing you with hot water come shower time. Another option is to boil water and pour it into a large container that has a spigot, then use that to fill up your smaller shower bag or bottle. Either way, you’ll want to have some sort of catchment system for greywater so that you’re not polluting the area around your campsite.
If you really want to cut down on water usage, try a sponge bath. This is where you simply wet a washcloth or sponge and use that to wipe down your body. You can even add a little bit of soap to the mix if you want. This is obviously not going to be as effective as a shower, but it’s much better than nothing.
Remember that camping hygiene isn’t just about taking showers. You also need to brush your teeth and wash your hands regularly. If you’re short on water, there are ways to do this without using any at all. Dry toothbrushes are available that only require water for activation, and you can always bring along some hand sanitizer for those times when soap and water aren’t available.
Water Storage
Another option for storing water while camping is to collect rainwater. This can be done by setting up a tarp above your campsite to catch rainwater as it falls. You can then use this collected rainwater for showering, cooking, and other needs.
Once you have your water storage solution set up, you’ll need to think about how you’re going to heat the water. The most common way to do this is by boiling water over a campfire. You can also use a portable camping stove to heat water if you don’t have a campfire. If you’re using hot water from a tap, be sure to test the temperature before getting in the shower to avoid scalding yourself.
Select a method of bathing for maintaining good camping hygiene
There are a few ways to get clean when camping, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular methods:
Using a Portable Camp Shower
A portable camp shower is a great option if you’re car camping or have a basecamp set up. These showers are easy to use and can be hung from a tree or other support. Some models even come with solar panels that heat the water as it fills the reservoir, so you can enjoy a hot shower even when camping in cooler weather.
The main downside of this shower is that it can be expensive, and they require a lot of water. If you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking or backpacking, this probably isn’t the best option for you.
Pressurized Camping Showers
The pressurized shower is one of the most popular kinds of camping showers. These showers have a pump that sucks water from a container and then sprays it through a showerhead. Pressurized camping showers are great because they give you more control over the quantity of water you use and how strong the spray is.
Another benefit of pressurized camping showers is that they often come with a built-in soap dispenser. This means that you can save time by not having to fumble around with a bar of soap while you’re trying to take a shower.
Pressurized camping showers vary in price, but they typically range from $30 to $60. If you’re looking for an affordable option, consider the Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower. This shower has a two-gallon tank and can run for up to seven minutes on a single charge.
If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the Coleman Hot Water on Demand H20asis Portable Shower is a great option. This shower can heat water up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for chilly mornings or evenings. It also comes with a five-foot hose, so you won’t have to worry about being too close to the water source.
Electric Camping Showers
If you want a hot shower but don’t want to deal with the hassle of heating up water, then an electric camping shower is for you. These showers work by drawing power from your car battery or a portable power pack and heating up the water as you go. Electric camping showers are great for those who camp in cold weather or at high altitudes where it can be difficult to get hot water.
There are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have enough battery power to last the duration of your shower. A full charge will usually give you about 15 minutes of use.
- Be careful not to splash water on the electrical components of the shower. This could cause a short circuit and ruin your shower.
- Don’t use an electric camping shower in a wet area. This could lead to electrocution.
Gravity Camping Showers
One of the most popular types of camping showers is the gravity camping shower. These showers use a bag filled with water that hangs from a tree or other support and uses gravity to provide pressure to push the water through the showerhead.
Gravity camping showers are great because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to set up, and can be used by multiple people before needing to be refilled. They do require a little more effort to get hot water into the bag, however, so if you’re looking for a truly hot shower experience, this may not be the best option for you.
Here’s a quick overview of how to set up and use a gravity camping shower:
- Find a tree or other support that you can hang the shower bag from. Make sure that the area around the tree is clear so that you have room to move around.
- Fill the shower bag with water, using hot water if possible. Hang the shower bag from the tree or support.
- Place the showerhead on the end of the hose and turn on the water.
- Adjust the flow of water by opening or closing the valve on the shower bag.
- When you’re finished, turn off the water and disconnect the hose from the shower bag. Empty any remaining water from the bag and store it in a cool, dry place.
DIY Combination Gravity/Electric Camping Shower
If you don’t want to spend the money on a pre-made camping shower, or you’re just the DIY type, then this method is for you. You’ll need a large water container (at least 15 gallons), a camp stove, and some PVC piping.
Fill the large water container with hot water and set it atop the camp stove. Then, place one end of the PVC pipe in the container and run the other end out of your tent (or wherever you’re showering). Make sure that the end of the pipe is lower than the container – this will create suction and allow the water to flow through.
Obviously, this method is a bit more complicated than simply using a pre-made solar shower or camp shower. But, if you’re up for the challenge, it’s definitely doable. Plus, it’ll save you some money in the long run.
Sponge Bathing Outdoors
The most primitive (and least popular) way to shower when camping is to take a sponge bath outdoors.
You’ll need to bring a large bucket or basin, along with a small towel and soap. Fill the bucket with water from a nearby stream or lake, then find a secluded spot where you can strip down and wash.
Sponge baths are not very efficient, and they can be quite cold if you’re bathing in water that’s been sitting out in the sun all day. But if you’re desperate for a clean feeling, they’ll do in a pinch. Just make sure you pack out all your dirty water when you’re done!
Bathing Au Naturel
Of course, you can always take a dip in a lake, river, or stream. If you’re lucky enough to be near hot springs, that’s another great option for getting clean. But what if you don’t want to get your hair wet? Or you’re just not feeling the whole swimsuit thing? In that case, you can always go au natural too!
There are a few different ways to do this. One is to simply find a secluded spot away from camp and take care of business. Another is to bring along a small tarp or piece of PVC pipe and string it up between two trees for some privacy. And if you really want to get fancy, there are solar shower bags that you can fill with water and let the sun heat up for a nice hot shower.
Just remember, when you’re bathing in the great outdoors, always be respectful of your surroundings and leave no trace!
Public Showers
To use a public shower, start by hanging up your towel and any other clothes you want to keep dry on the hooks provided. Then, turn on the water and adjust it to a comfortable temperature. Wet your hair and body, then apply soap all over. Use a washcloth or loofah to scrub yourself clean, then rinse off completely. Finally, turn off the water and dry yourself off with your towel before getting dressed again in the changing area.
If you’re camping with young children, public showers can be a godsend. Let them run around and play while you take a quick shower. Just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t wander off!
Most public showers will have coin-operated timers. These are usually set for about five minutes, which is just enough time to get wet, soap up, and rinse off. If you need more time, simply insert more coins into the timer.
Established Campgrounds
If you’re car camping or RVing, chances are good that your campground will have some sort of shower facility. These vary widely in terms of quality, but they’ll all get the job done. The key here is to bring along some quarters (or dollar bills) to operate the shower, as well as a towel and any other toiletries you might need.
Most established campgrounds will have at least one shower building with private stalls, and some even have hot water. If you’re lucky enough to be camping at a place with hot showers, enjoy them! They can be a real luxury after a long day on the trail. Just remember to be considerate of other campers and limit your time to five minutes or less.
Truck Stops
If you’re on a road trip and need to take a shower, your best bet is to stop at a truck stop. Many of these have showers that you can use for a small fee. Be sure to bring your own toiletries, towel, and change of clothes. Some truck stops also have laundromats, so you can wash your clothes while you’re there.
City or Rec Center Pools
If you don’t want to camp but still want to enjoy the outdoors, try finding a public pool. Most city recreation centers or YMCAs offer day passes for non-members. This can be a great option if you don’t have access to a pool at home and want to avoid the crowds at a public beach.
Another option is to find an indoor swimming pool that offers day passes. These can be found at some hotels, university recreation centers, or even some gyms.
Public Beaches
One popular way to shower when camping is to use public beaches. This option is often free, and it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while getting clean. Public beaches typically have showers that are open to the public. All you need to do is bring your own soap and towel.
Another advantage of using public beaches is that they usually have changing areas. This means you can change into your bathing suit before heading to the shower. This can be a great way to avoid getting sand in your car or RV.
Of course, one downside of using public beaches is that they can be crowded during peak times.
Gyms
Another option for showering when camping is to use the showers at gyms. This can be a great option if you have a gym membership. Most gyms have showers that are available for use by members. All you need to do is bring your own towel and toiletries.
The advantage of using gym showers is that they’re usually very clean. The downside, of course, is that you need to be a member of the gym in order to use them.
Camping Hygiene and Travel Bathing Accessories
Here are some of our top tips for staying clean and smelling great while camping!
Shower Tent
A shower tent is a great option for those who want a little more privacy while they clean up. It also helps to keep your things dry and clean if you’re camping in an area with lots of bugs.
Shower tents typically have a floor mat, which helps to keep the inside of the tent clean. Some also come with a built-in seat, which can be helpful if you’re tired or pregnant.
Quick Dry Towels
Quick dry towels are essential for any camper, especially if you’re planning on swimming or hiking. They’re much lighter and more compact than traditional towels, so they won’t take up too much space in your backpack.
Quick dry towels are made of synthetic materials that help them dry quickly. Some even have built-in drying loops, so you can hang them up to air out after use.
Toiletry & Shower Bag
A toiletry bag is a great way to keep your shower and hygiene items organized while camping. It’s also useful for carrying things like shampoo, soap, and toothpaste.
Most toiletry bags have several compartments or pockets, which can be helpful for separating items. A hanging toiletry bag is also a good option if you want to save space in your backpack. [2]
If you don’t have a toiletry bag, a gallon-sized zip-top bag can work in a pinch. Just make sure to label it so that you know what’s inside!
Ways to stay fresh without a shower while camping
There are a few ways to manage your hygiene while camping without having to take a shower. One way is by using baby wipes. You can find them at any grocery store in the baby aisle. Another way is to bring along some dry shampoo. This will help absorb any oil and sweat that has built up on your scalp throughout the day. Finally, make sure to wear clean clothes each day and pack extra if necessary.
If you’re able to camp in cooler weather, then you might be able to get away with not showering every day. The cooler temperatures will help keep your body from sweating as much, which means you won’t need to shower as often. [3]
FAQ
How do you shower during camping?
There are a few options for showering while camping. You can either use a portable shower, solar shower, or campground shower.
Portable showers are great because you can take them with you wherever you go. Solar showers are a very economical and eco-friendly option. Campground showers vary in quality, but they’re generally better than nothing.
Here are a few tips for how to get the most out of your camping shower:
- Invest in a good campsite mat to put your portable shower on so you don’t have to worry about getting the ground wet.
- A tarp can also be useful for creating a makeshift privacy screen around your campsite shower area.
- If you’re using a solar shower, make sure to fill it up early in the day so it has time to heat up.
- Campground showers often have a limited amount of hot water, so plan your shower accordingly.
- Bring along some biodegradable soap and shampoo so you can avoid polluting the environment. [4]
How do you deal with not showering while camping?
If you are someone who just can’t go without showering for more than a day, then camping might not be the best activity for you. However, if you don’t mind getting a little dirty and are willing to take some measures to stay clean, then showering while camping is definitely doable! Here are a few tips on how to make it work:
- Use baby wipes or face wipes to clean your body before getting in the shower. This will help remove any dirt and sweat from your skin so that you’re not just washing with soap and water.
- Bring along some dry shampoo or body powder to help absorb any oil and sweat after you’ve showered. These products can be a lifesaver when it comes to feeling fresh and clean after a long day of camping.
- If you’re really desperate, you can always try washing with a washcloth and some water from a nearby lake or stream. It’s not the most ideal situation, but it will definitely get the job done in a pinch! [5]
How do you maintain hygiene while camping?
One important aspect of camping is maintaining proper hygiene, especially when it comes to showering. Here are some tips on how to shower when camping:
- If you are using a public campground shower, always wear flip flops or sandals to avoid getting athlete’s foot or other infections.
- Public campground showers usually have a time limit, so make sure you are efficient with your shower.
- Wash your hair with biodegradable shampoo and soap to avoid polluting the environment.
- If you are camping in an RV, most RVs have built-in showers. These are usually small, so again, efficiency is key.
- Some campgrounds have solar showers. These are basically black bags that you fill with water and leave in the sun to heat up. They can be a bit tricky to use, but once you get the hang of it, they work great!
- If all else fails, you can always take a sponge bath. Fill a bucket with warm water and wash with a washcloth. [6]
Useful Video: how to shower while camping
Conclusion
All in all, there are a few key things to remember when showering while camping: be mindful of your water usage, set up camp near a water source, and invest in a solar shower or portable shower. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to have a clean and enjoyable camping trip! Happy camping!
References:
- https://www.seeingsam.com/how-to-shower-while-camping/
- https://www.takethetruck.com/blog/bathing-while-camping-and-traveling
- https://www.pitchup-outdoors.com/13-tips-for-keeping-clean-when-camping-without-a-shower/
- https://www.advnture.com/how-to/shower-camping
- https://www.nps.gov/articles/hygienewhilecamping.htm
- https://roofnest.com/blog/2020/07/09/how-to-keep-the-environment-clean/