Outdoor showers for pop-up campers offer a convenient way to rinse off without tracking dirt inside. This guide covers everything beginners need to know, from simple DIY setups to more permanent solutions, ensuring a clean and comfortable camping experience.
Ah, camping! The fresh air, the starry nights, the utter joy of being out in nature. But let’s be honest, sometimes nature comes with a little extra… well, dirt. Especially when you’re coming back from a hike or a day at the beach, the last thing you want is to track sand and grime all over your cozy pop-up camper. It’s a common camping conundrum: how to get clean without making a mess inside your camper. If you’ve ever found yourself wrestling with muddy boots just inside your door, you’ll know exactly what I mean. Don’t worry, fellow campers! Creating an outdoor shower for your pop-up camper is totally achievable, and I’m here to walk you through it step by step. We’ll explore simple, budget-friendly options and a few steps up, so you can find the perfect solution for your camping adventures. Get ready to enjoy the outdoors even more!
Why Consider an Outdoor Shower for Your Pop-Up Camper?
Setting up an outdoor shower might seem like a luxury, but for pop-up camper owners, it quickly becomes a practical necessity. Think about those sandy beach days, the muddy trails after a rain shower, or even just the general dust and grime that can accumulate over a camping trip. Having an outdoor shower means:
- Keeping the Inside Clean: This is the big one! Rinse off sand, mud, sunscreen, or bug spray before stepping inside. Your camper’s interior will thank you!
- Comfort and Convenience: No more crowded public campground showers or waiting in line. Enjoy a private rinse whenever you need it, on your own schedule.
- Freshening Up After Activities: Perfect for a quick rinse after a strenuous hike, a dip in a lake, or just to cool off on a hot day.
- Extended Comfort: Especially useful for longer camping trips or when camping in areas without convenient water access. A quick rinse can make a world of difference.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Many outdoor shower solutions can be designed to be quite water-efficient.
Different Types of Outdoor Showers for Pop-Up Campers
The beauty of an outdoor shower for a pop-up camper is that it can be as simple or as sophisticated as you like. Here are some popular options, ranging from the super basic to more involved setups:
1. The Simplest: Solar Shower Bags
These are the go-to for many campers looking for an easy, portable, and affordable solution. A solar shower bag is essentially a durable, often black, plastic bag that you fill with water. You leave it out in the sun for a few hours, and the black material absorbs solar energy, heating the water inside.
How it works:
- Fill: Fill the bag with water from your tap or a water source.
- Heat: Lay the bag flat in direct sunlight, ideally on a dark surface to maximize heat absorption.
- Hang: Once the water is warm (it can get surprisingly hot on a sunny day!), hang the bag from a sturdy tree branch, your camper’s awning, or a portable shower rod.
- Shower: Use the attached hose and nozzle to rinse off.
Pros:
- Extremely portable and lightweight.
- Very affordable.
- No electricity or complex setup required.
- Environmentally friendly water heating.
Cons:
- Water temperature depends heavily on sunlight.
- Water capacity is usually limited (often 5-10 gallons).
- Water can cool down relatively quickly.
- Requires a place to hang it and space to lay it out in the sun.
2. Portable Camping Showers (Pump or Battery-Operated)
These are a step up from solar bags, offering more consistent water flow and pressure. They typically consist of a water reservoir (often a large container or bag) and a small electric pump that connects to a hose and showerhead.
Types of Portable Showers:
- 12V Propane Water Heater & Pump System: These are the most advanced portable options. They connect to a propane tank to heat water instantly and often use a 12V pump powered by your camper’s battery or a portable power station. They provide hot water on demand with decent pressure.
- Battery-Operated Pump Showers: These draw water from a bucket or container using a submersible pump powered by rechargeable batteries. They don’t typically heat the water themselves, so you’d need to pre-warm it or use it as a rinse for cold water.
How it works (General Outline):
- Setup: Place your water source (bucket, large container) near your shower area.
- Connect: Connect the pump to the water source and the shower hose/head. If using a propane heater, connect it to the propane tank.
- Power/Fuel: Connect the pump to a 12V power source (camper battery, power station) or turn on the battery. If using a propane heater, ensure it’s fueled.
- Pump: Turn on the pump. It will draw water and push it through the hose.
- Shower: Enjoy a steady stream of water.
Pros:
- More consistent water pressure than solar bags.
- Propane-heated versions offer true hot water.
- Can be used with various water containers.
- Relatively portable and easy to pack away.
Cons:
- More expensive than solar bags.
- Requires a power source (battery) or fuel (propane).
- Can be bulkier to transport.
- Need to manage water supply and pump operation.
3. DIY Privacy Tent & Shower Rod
Regardless of whether you use a solar bag or a portable shower, you’ll likely want some privacy. A pop-up privacy tent is a fantastic solution. They are designed to unfold in seconds, creating a enclosed space perfect for changing clothes or showering.
How to set it up:
- Choose a Spot: Find a flat area near your camper.
- Unfold the Tent: Most pop-up tents require minimal assembly. Unfold it, and it will take its shape. Secure it with stakes if it’s windy.
- Install Shower Rod (Optional but recommended): Many privacy tents have a loop at the top or can accommodate a tension rod or a foldable shower rod that attaches to the tent poles.
- Hang Your Water Source: Hang your solar shower bag or rig a system for your portable shower.
- Connect and Shower: Connect your hose, turn on the water, and enjoy your private shower!
Pros:
- Provides excellent privacy.
- Easy to set up and take down.
- Self-contained unit for showering and changing.
- Many models have built-in organizers for toiletries.
Cons:
- Adds another item to pack.
- Requires some ground space.
- Can be susceptible to wind if not properly staked.
4. The “Car Wash” Style (More Permanent Setup)
For those who camp frequently in one spot or have a bit more space and budget, a more integrated shower setup could be an option. This typically involves a more robust frame or enclosure, a larger water tank, and possibly a direct connection to a water source if available at a campsite.
Components might include:
- A sturdy, perhaps pre-fabricated, shower enclosure.
- A larger water tank (e.g., 50-100 gallons) that can be plumbed.
- A small water heater (propane or electric).
- A proper shower fixture and drain system.
Pros:
- Most comfortable and convenient.
- Provides hot water and good pressure.
- More durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
- Not practical for frequent moving.
- Significantly more expensive and complex to build or buy.
- Requires dedicated space and planning.
- May not be feasible for pop-up camper owners who need portability.
Essential Gear Checklist for Your Outdoor Shower
No matter which type of outdoor shower you choose, having the right gear makes a big difference. Here’s a handy checklist:
- Water Source:
- Solar Shower Bag (5-10 gallons)
- Large Water Container(s) (e.g., 5-gallon water jugs)
- Heating (if needed):
- Propane Water Heater for Camping (e.g., Camp Chef, portable propane tank)
- Solar heat (for solar bags)
- Pump & Plumbing:
- 12V Water Pump (if using a reservoir)
- Hoses (food-grade if possible)
- Hose Clamps
- Shower Head/Nozzle
- Connectors/Adapters
- Privacy:
- Pop-up Privacy Tent
- (Optional) Tension Rod or foldable shower rod
- Stakes and guy ropes for windy conditions
- Water Support:
- Collapsible Sink or Basin for pre-warming water if needed.
- Essentials:
- Towels
- Shower Caddy or Basket for toiletries
- Biodegradable Soap and Shampoo
- Flip-flops or shower shoes
- (Optional) Small ground mat or rug for inside the shower area.
- Power (if using electric pump/heater):
- Portable Power Station
- Deep Cycle RV Battery
- Solar Panels (for recharging)
- Appropriate Cables/Connectors
DIY: Setting Up a Basic Solar Shower System
Let’s walk through setting up one of the most popular and beginner-friendly options: a solar shower bag combined with a privacy tent. This is a great way to get started without a huge investment.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
You’ll need:
- A solar shower bag (at least 5 gallons).
- A pop-up privacy tent.
- A sturdy rope or strap for hanging the bag.
- Optional: A small, foldable shower rod or tension rod if your tent doesn’t have a suitable hanging point.
- Biodegradable soap, shampoo, and towel.
Step 2: Position Your Privacy Tent
Find a relatively flat spot near your pop-up camper. Make sure there’s enough space for the tent to stand comfortably. Unfold the tent – most pop open like a large flap or ring. Secure it with the included ground stakes, especially if it’s breezy.
Step 3: Fill and Heat the Solar Shower Bag
Locate the filling nozzle on your solar shower bag – it’s usually on the opposite side of the shower head. Fill the bag with water. You can use water from your camper’s on-board tank, a jug, or a campground spigot. Don’t overfill it; leave a little room for air and expansion. Once filled, seal it securely.
Lay the bag flat in a sunny spot. The black material will absorb sunlight and heat the water. This can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the intensity of the sun and the outside temperature. Flipping the bag once halfway through can help ensure even heating.
Step 4: Set Up the Shower Bag for Use
While the water is heating, prepare your shower setup. Inside your privacy tent, find the best place to hang the bag. Many tents have a strong loop at the top. If not, you might need to string a line across the top, or use a foldable shower rod that attaches to the tent poles. Tie the rope securely to the handle of the filled shower bag. Hang it from the chosen support at a comfortable height.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Shower!
Testing the water temperature is key! Carefully open the nozzle or nozzle cap to check. If it’s too hot, add a little cool water or let it cool down. If it’s too cool, you might need more sun or a larger bag to retain heat longer. Once the temperature is just right, turn on the shower head and enjoy your private, refreshing rinse!
DIY: Setting Up a Portable Pump Shower System (with Heater)
This option provides more comfort with heated water and better pressure. It’s a bit more involved but incredibly rewarding.
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment
- Portable propane water heater (e.g., an outdoor unit like the Camp Chef or a tankless propane water heater designed for RVs).
- 12V Water Pump (submersible or inline).
- Large Water Container (e.g., a 5-6 gallon or larger water jug, or even your camper’s fresh water tank if you’re stationary).
- Propane Tank (e.g., 1lb disposable or a refillable 5lb+ tank).
- Shower Hose and Head.
- Food-grade Hoses and necessary fittings/adapters to connect the pump, heater, and shower head.
- Power source for the pump (12V battery, power station, camper battery).
- Pop-up Privacy Tent.
- Stakes, rope, etc.
Step 2: Position and Connect the Water Heater and Pump
Set up your privacy tent. Outside or just inside the tent, position your water heater according to its manual. Connect your propane tank. Place the submersible pump into your water container, or connect the inline pump to the water inlet of the heater (depending on your system). Connect a hose from the pump’s outlet to the water heater’s inlet. If using a submersible pump, connect its power cord to your 12V power source. For inline pumps, ensure they have a power source too.
Step 3: Connect the Shower Head
Connect the shower hose to the hot water outlet of your water heater. Attach the shower head to the other end of the hose. Run the hose into the privacy tent where you will be showering.
Step 4: Prime and Test the System
Fill your water container. Turn on the 12V pump. Let it run for a minute to push air out of the lines and fill them with water. Check for any leaks at the connections and tighten them if necessary. Once water is flowing steadily, carefully turn on the propane water heater. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for ignition and temperature setting. It will take a minute or two to heat the water. Test the water temperature with your hand before stepping under it.
Step 5: Shower Time!
Step into your privacy tent. Adjust the water temperature as needed. Enjoy a warm, pressurized shower!
Important for Portable Heaters: Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines for propane use. Ensure good ventilation, especially if operating the heater inside or partially inside an enclosure.
Table: Pros and Cons of Different Outdoor Shower Setups
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which setup might be best for your pop-up camper adventures:
| Shower Type | Pros | Cons | Typical Cost | Portability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Shower Bag | Affordable, lightweight, no power needed, eco-friendly heating. | Water temp dependent on sun, limited capacity, slower heating. | $20 – $70 | High |
| Portable Pump Shower (Battery Operated – No Heater) | Consistent flow, can use any water container, better pressure than gravity. | No hot water (unless you pre-heat water), requires battery charging, can be noisy. | $40 – $100 | Medium |
| Portable Pump Shower (Propane Heater) |
