How To Make A Camping Shower: Budget-Friendly & Portable Guide

Are you wondering how to make a camping shower? This article provides step-by-step instructions and ideas for building your own DIY camping shower, ensuring you stay clean and refreshed on your outdoor adventures, without breaking the bank. We’ll explore various camp shower ideas, from simple solar shower setup options to more elaborate camping shower system designs, all while keeping portability and affordability in mind. Find the best camping shower solution for your needs.

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Why Build Your Own Camping Shower?

Building your own portable shower for camping offers several advantages over relying solely on campground facilities or packing pre-made showers.

• Cost Savings: Pre-made camping showers can be expensive. A homemade camping shower can be built for a fraction of the cost using readily available materials.
• Customization: You can tailor your outdoor shower for camping to your specific needs and preferences, such as size, water capacity, and heating method.
• Portability: Depending on your design, a backpacking shower options DIY shower can be lighter and more compact than commercial alternatives.
• Self-Reliance: Building your own shower empowers you to be more self-sufficient in the outdoors.
• Fun Project: It’s a rewarding and engaging DIY project.

Essential Components of a Camping Shower

Before diving into specific designs, let’s identify the core components you’ll need for any affordable camping shower:

• Water Container: This holds the water for your shower. Options include:
  • Heavy-duty water bags (solar shower bags)
  • Buckets
  • Plastic barrels
  • Pressurized garden sprayers
• Water Source: How will you fill the container? Consider:
  • Lakes, rivers, or streams (ensure water is filtered and treated)
  • Campground water spigots
  • Large water jugs
• Water Delivery System: This controls the flow of water. Options include:
  • Gravity-fed system with a shower head (most common)
  • Hand pump
  • Electric pump
  • Pressurized sprayer nozzle
• Shower Head: Choose a shower head that provides a comfortable and efficient spray.
• Enclosure (Optional): Provides privacy while showering.
• Heating Method (Optional): If you want warm water.
  • Solar heating
  • Propane water heater (for more elaborate setups)

DIY Camping Shower Ideas: Simple to Advanced

Here are several camp shower ideas, ranging from the super simple to slightly more involved.

1. The Gravity-Fed Solar Shower

This is the most basic and popular solar shower setup.

Materials:

• Solar shower bag (5-10 gallon capacity)
• Rope or sturdy cord
• Shower head (optional; some bags have built-in shower heads)
• Dark-colored rock or surface (to heat the bag)

Instructions:

1. Fill the Bag: Fill the solar shower bag with water.
2. Heat the Water: Place the bag on a dark-colored surface in direct sunlight for 2-3 hours. The black material will absorb sunlight and heat the water.
3. Hang the Bag: Securely hang the bag from a tree branch, car roof rack, or other elevated structure using the rope or cord. Ensure it’s high enough for comfortable showering.
4. Shower Time: Open the nozzle or attach the shower head and enjoy your gravity-fed shower.

Pros:

• Extremely simple and affordable camping shower.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Uses solar energy for heating.

Cons:

• Requires sunlight to heat the water.
• Water pressure is dependent on the height of the bag.
• Limited water capacity.

2. The Bucket Shower

An even simpler homemade camping shower.

Materials:

• Bucket (5-gallon is a good size)
• Shower head (attachable to a hose)
• Hose (short length)

Instructions:

1. Fill the Bucket: Fill the bucket with water. Heat water separately on a camp stove and carefully add to the bucket to reach your desired temperature.
2. Attach the Hose and Shower Head: Connect the hose to the bucket (you may need to create an opening) and attach the shower head to the hose.
3. Shower Time: Manually lift and tilt the bucket to pour water through the shower head, or use a small submersible pump for a more consistent flow.

Pros:

• Very affordable camping shower and easy to assemble.
• Durable and reusable.
• Can be used with hot or cold water (heated separately).

Cons:

• Requires manual lifting (or a pump).
• Limited water pressure.
• Can be bulky to transport.

3. The Pressurized Garden Sprayer Shower

This camping shower system offers better water pressure.

Materials:

• Garden sprayer (2-3 gallon capacity)
• Shower head (optional; some sprayers have adjustable nozzles)
• Shoulder strap (optional, for easier carrying)

Instructions:

1. Fill the Sprayer: Fill the garden sprayer with water. Warm water separately on a camp stove and carefully add to the sprayer to reach your desired temperature.
2. Pressurize the Sprayer: Pump the handle to pressurize the tank.
3. Shower Time: Use the sprayer nozzle or attach a shower head (if possible) and spray yourself clean.

Pros:

• Good water pressure.
• Portable and relatively lightweight.
• Easy to use.

Cons:

• Requires manual pumping.
• Limited water capacity.
• May not be as durable as other options.

4. The Electric Pump Shower

This provides consistent water flow and is a great option for a portable shower for camping.

Materials:

• Water container (bucket, water jug, etc.)
• Submersible electric pump (12V)
• Hose
• Shower head
• 12V power source (car battery, portable power station)

Instructions:

1. Set Up the Container: Place the water container on the ground.
2. Connect the Pump: Place the submersible pump in the water container.
3. Attach the Hose and Shower Head: Connect the hose to the pump and attach the shower head to the hose.
4. Power Up: Connect the pump to your 12V power source.
5. Shower Time: Turn on the pump and enjoy a consistent flow of water.

Pros:

• Consistent water pressure.
• Easy to use (no manual pumping).
• Can be used with large water containers.

Cons:

• Requires a power source.
• More complex setup.
• Pump can be noisy.

5. The DIY Shower Enclosure

While not essential, a shower enclosure provides privacy.

Materials:

• PVC pipes (1/2″ or 3/4″ diameter)
• PVC fittings (corner connectors, T-connectors)
• Shower curtain or waterproof fabric
• Shower curtain rings
• Rope or cord (for stabilization)

Instructions:

1. Build the Frame: Cut the PVC pipes to the desired lengths and connect them using the PVC fittings to create a rectangular or square frame. The size should be large enough to comfortably stand in.
2. Attach the Curtain: Hang the shower curtain or waterproof fabric from the frame using shower curtain rings.
3. Stabilize the Enclosure: Use rope or cord to secure the enclosure to nearby trees or stakes to prevent it from tipping over in windy conditions.

Pros:

• Provides privacy.
• Relatively lightweight and portable.
• Customizable to your desired size.

Cons:

• Requires more materials and construction.
• Can be bulky to transport.
• May not be stable in strong winds.

Comparing Shower Types

Here’s a table summarizing the different camp shower ideas discussed:

Shower Type	Cost	Portability	Water Pressure	Ease of Use	Heating Method	Privacy (Requires Enclosure)
Gravity-Fed Solar Shower	Low	High	Low	High	Solar	Yes
Bucket Shower	Very Low	Medium	Very Low	Medium	Manual	Yes
Pressurized Garden Sprayer	Low	High	Medium	High	Manual	Yes
Electric Pump Shower	Medium	Medium	High	Medium	External	Yes

Tips for Building Your Camping Shower

• Consider the Location: Think about where you’ll be using the shower. If you’re backpacking, prioritize lightweight and compact designs. If you’re car camping, you can opt for a larger and more elaborate setup.
• Choose Durable Materials: Use materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
• Test Your Shower: Before heading out on your camping trip, test your shower at home to ensure it works properly and that you have all the necessary components.
• Conserve Water: Be mindful of water usage, especially in dry areas. Use a shower head with a low flow rate and take short showers.
• Dispose of Wastewater Properly: Dispose of wastewater at least 200 feet away from water sources (lakes, rivers, streams) and campsites. Use biodegradable soap.
• Safety First: When heating water, be careful to avoid burns. Always test the water temperature before showering, especially with solar showers, as the water can get very hot.

Backpacking Shower Options

For backpackers, weight and size are critical considerations. Here are some backpacking shower options:

• Ultralight Solar Shower Bag: These bags are designed to be extremely lightweight and packable. Look for bags made from durable, lightweight materials like TPU or nylon.
• Pocket Shower: These are small, lightweight bags with a built-in shower head. They can be hung from a tree branch or held overhead.
• Sponge Bath: The simplest option is to forgo a shower altogether and use a sponge and a small amount of water to clean yourself.

Fathoming The Best Practices For Camping Shower Wastewater Disposal

Proper wastewater disposal is crucial for minimizing your environmental impact.

• Use Biodegradable Soap: Ensure your soap is biodegradable and free of phosphates and other harmful chemicals.
• Dig a Sump Hole: Dig a small hole (6-8 inches deep) at least 200 feet away from water sources and campsites. Pour the wastewater into the hole and cover it with soil. The soil will help filter the water and prevent contamination.
• Scatter the Water: If digging a sump hole is not possible, scatter the wastewater over a wide area, at least 200 feet away from water sources and campsites.
• Avoid Disposing Near Plants: Do not dispose of wastewater near plants, as the soap can damage them.
• Check Local Regulations: Some areas have specific regulations regarding wastewater disposal. Be sure to check the local regulations before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best way to heat water for a camping shower?
A: The best way to heat water depends on your resources and preferences. Solar heating is a great option if you have plenty of sunlight. Alternatively, you can heat water on a camp stove and carefully add it to your shower container.

Q: Can I use any type of soap for a camping shower?
A: No, you should only use biodegradable soap. Regular soap can harm the environment and contaminate water sources.

Q: Who is responsible for disposing of wastewater properly?
A: You are responsible for disposing of wastewater properly. Always follow Leave No Trace principles and dispose of wastewater at least 200 feet away from water sources and campsites.

Q: Can I drink the water from a solar shower bag?
A: No, you should not drink the water from a solar shower bag. The bag may contain chemicals that are not safe for consumption.

Q: What is the ideal water temperature for a camping shower?
A: The ideal water temperature is a matter of personal preference. However, most people find that water between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit is comfortable.

By following these tips and instructions, you can build your own affordable camping shower and enjoy a refreshing shower on your next outdoor adventure. Remember to prioritize safety, conserve water, and dispose of wastewater properly to minimize your impact on the environment.