There’s nothing quite like taking a warm shower when you are camping. Water can be scarce when you are out on the trails, and hot water is even more so.
Luckily, you can get ingenious camp shower designs that enable you to bring this small creature comfort to the backcountry. Continue reading to learn about the best shower bag for the outdoors.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
NEMO Helio Pressure Shower
Best for Backpackers
Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
Best Budget
Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower
Best Overall
NEMO Helio Pressure Shower
The NEMO Helio Pressure Shower is a lightweight and durable solar camp shower. It features a built-in foot pump bag for optimal water pressure and a three-gallon reservoir for seven minutes of shower time. With a low-flow, high-pressure head and a seven-foot water hose, it offers a luxurious shower experience without added weight, making it ideal for campers seeking a bit of comfort on the trails.
Pros:
- It provides excellent water pressure lasting up to seven minutes
- The pump bag eliminates the risk of over-inflation
- This durable shower includes a lifetime warranty from NEMO
Cons:
- It is somewhat expensive
Best for Backpackers
Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
The Sea to Summit Pocket Shower is perfect for minimalist backpackers. It’s compact enough to fit in your pocket but expands to hold three gallons of water. The black fabric heats up quickly in the sun for a warm shower. To keep weight down, it doesn’t have a plastic lid; instead, you twist and fold the top to seal it. This gravity shower is ideal for saving space and weight while camping, and REI offers a replacement guarantee for added peace of mind.
Pros:
- This pocket shower bag is extremely lightweight, weighing only five ounces
- The large-capacity three-gallon vessel rolls up into a tiny package
- The adjustable shower head lets you control the water flow
Cons:
- It is prone to developing pinholes when used on rough surfaces
Best Budget
Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower
Coghlan’s Solar Heated Camp Shower is a great choice for occasional use. This basic five-gallon solar gravity shower heats up quickly in the sun, providing warm showers without a complex setup. It’s ideal for casual campers and budget-conscious individuals, and it can also serve as an emergency shower for off-grid survival packs. Just be cautious not to overfill it, as the handle may break if it becomes too heavy.
Pros:
- This option is very inexpensive
- The large reservoir holds enough water for multiple showers
Cons:
- The seams are not very durable after heavy use
- The plastic smell can linger even after regular rinsing
Advanced Elements Summer Shower
The Advanced Elements Summer Shower is a reliable solar gravity shower with a simple design. Its four-layer construction enhances performance and durability, with the water heating up quickly despite the silver outer layer. The insulating middle layers transfer and retain heat, while the reflective liner concentrates solar energy for efficient heating. This shower is perfect for those who want a no-frills solar utility shower for outdoor use, but be careful not to overfill it, as this could damage the handle and cause leaks.
Pros:
- The four-layer wall design provides excellent durability
- It features a built-in water temperature gauge
- The reflective inner layer heats the water quickly
Cons:
- The handle can break when the vessel gets overfilled
The Outdoorsman’s Best Shower Bag Shopping Guide
When choosing a shower bag for backpacking or camping, consider these key features:
Material:
- Budget options are single-layer black plastic, cheap but less durable.
- Best bags have multiple layers for performance and durability.
Capacity:
- Most hold 2-3 gallons, some up to 10 gallons.
- Advanced designs deliver good pressure from a small amount of water.
Temperature:
- Most use solar energy, some use electricity or propane.
- Solar showers can get hot on sunny days but may not work well in cold or cloudy weather.
Pressure:
- Gravity-based bags may lack sufficient pressure.
- Best bags use pumps and narrow outlets for excellent pressure.
Attachments:
- Optional add-ons like electric water heaters or high-pressure pumps can enhance your experience.
Consider your needs and preferences when selecting the best shower bag for your outdoor adventures.
The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Shower Bags
We hope this in-depth shopping guide answered all of your most important questions. You should now feel confident purchasing the best shower bag for your next camping excursion.
Do you want to read more guides to outdoor cleanliness? Visit our Hygiene and Sanitation hub to learn about tools and tips for staying clean when you are off-grid.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.
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