Camping Showers: Easy Ways to Stay Fresh on the Road

Nothing beats the feeling of a warm rinse after a day of hiking, biking, or exploring a new campsite. If you’re renting a motorhome or pitching a tent, a reliable shower can make the difference between a memorable adventure and a miserable one. Below you’ll find the most practical shower solutions, plus tips to keep them running smoothly without a hitch.

Types of Portable Showers

There are three main styles that work for most campers:

• Solar‑heated bags. Fill a waterproof bag with water, let the sun do the work, and attach a simple hose or showerhead. They’re cheap, light, and perfect for sunny sites.
• Press‑on or hand‑pump systems. These use a small pump to pressurize water from a 5‑20  litre container. You get a stronger spray and can use them at night with a small battery‑powered pump.
• External tank showers. Think of a small water tank mounted on a trailer or the side of your motorhome, with a pump and a hose that reaches the ground. They’re bulkier but give you unlimited showers as long as you refill the tank.

Choose the style that matches your trip length, weather, and how much gear you’re willing to carry. For a weekend in the Lake District, a solar bag often does the job. For a two‑week road trip across the UK, an external tank with a pump saves time.

Tips for Using and Maintaining Your Shower

Plan your water supply. Most campsites provide fresh water points, but they can be far from your pitch. Bring a hose long enough to reach the tap, or store extra water in sturdy jugs. A rule of thumb: aim for 30 litres per person per day for washing, cooking, and cleaning.

Keep it clean. After each use, rinse the shower bag or tank with fresh water. A little vinegar in the rinse water helps prevent soap scum and mold. If you’re using a pump, wipe the filter daily – a clogged filter reduces pressure fast.

Stay warm in cool weather. Warm water can be achieved with a portable propane heater, a battery‑powered immersion heater, or by mixing boiled water from a kettle with cold water in the tank. Always follow safety guidelines when using flame‑based heaters inside a tent.

Mind the waste. Most UK campsites have grey‑water collection points. If not, pour water onto the ground away from streams and vegetation. Use biodegradable soap to keep the environment happy.

Quick fixes. If your shower hose kinks, run it under a hot water tap for a minute to loosen it. A small patch kit can seal punctures in a bag temporarily – just wrap the patch and press firmly.

By keeping these basics in mind, you’ll enjoy a reliable shower wherever you set up. A clean body feels better, and it keeps the whole campsite nicer for everyone.

Remember, a good shower setup is just another piece of gear that adds comfort without weighing you down. Pick the right type, plan your water, and give your system a little love each day. Then you can focus on the real stuff – the scenery, the road, and the freedom of motorhome travel.