10 Best Camping Shower Reviews | Portable Propane Camp Showers

Camping nowadays is modernizing and fast, we now have numerous ways to make our trips more hygienic and clean.

With the various portable shower on the market, we are able to combine them with a camping shower tent, creating a home-like experience.

There are also other numerous health benefits in taking a warm shower before bed, it helps to relieve muscle soreness and tension after a long hike.

Additionally helping you sleep better and deeper.

 

Table could not be displayed.

 

We can also maintain our equipment by cleaning them with the pressured rinse kits.

Clean off our muddy boots in a flash, surfboards, our bodies and even give our tents a quick rinse off before heading home.

With all this in mind, we can agree they are a good idea. You may be thinking how do I choose between propane, solar or pressure shower?

Today we will look into the best models in each department, showing you the best features available.

Saving you countless hours of monotonous searching online.

Let’s check out the best performing portable camping showers on the market and discover which one is worthy of your next trip.

 

 

10 Best Portable Camp Showers Reviewed

1. Hike Crew Portable Propane Shower

Check Prices Here

A robust outdoor shower from Hike Crew with an innovative propane gas system that heats the water in this unit effectively, and at a high temperature. 

Some useful camping friendly features are temperature control, hand faucet or spigot option and a free showerhead attachment with multiple spray patterns, such as jet, standard, and spray. 

With an integrated shut off mechanism that comes into play once the water reaches 125 degrees F, it provides a reliable form of safety around the family.  

Additionally, the water flow sensor helps to reduce energy consumption, providing a stronger showering experience. Adapters, attachments, accessories, and hoses are all free in this bundle deal, however, propane does not come with it. 

Key Features:

• Safety Shutoff at 125 Degrees F
• Variety of Spray Patterns
• Decent Value with Free Parts

 

2. Nemo Helio 22 Litre Pressure Shower

Check Prices Here

This synthetic outdoor pressure shower is an upgrade on the older Nemo Helio model, which has an 11-liter capacity. The 22 liter is vastly improved with much longer-lasting heat, inside the tank. Perfect for festivals, camping and outdoor activities. 

A hands-free foot pump is where the pressure originates and is self-controlled, allowing you to regulate the flow of the water. When it’s fully pressurized you can expect a decent flow of water for up to 10 minutes, giving time for a few showers or rinses at least. 

A huge 10-foot hose comes with this foot pump shower, and the spray nozzle attachment fits neatly onto the hose, providing a comfortable spray setting for showering, jet for more through cleans or rinses. 

Amazingly, for such a big camping shower, it remains remarkably lightweight at just 2.4lbs, due to the materials sued in the manufacture, focussing on being portable and easy to manage on the move. 

Key Features:

• Huge 22 Litre Capacity
• Lightweight to Carry 2.4lbs
• 10 Foot Hose

 

3. Mr. Heater BOSS-XB13 Basecamp

Check Prices Here

This full shower system is a great option if you want full coverage for your whole trip. With enough power to provide 2 hours’ worth of hot water on the highest setting. The battery pack uses 4 D Cell batteries and with that, supply six 5-minute showers. So this could easily get the whole group showered in the morning and rinse off any tents, shoes, and utensils.

Hot Water

This portable battery shower does also heat water, not just provide water flow. It can heat up water to 35 degrees Fahrenheit which is a decent range of temperature for most battery powered showers. The product itself has been CSA safety certified and has passed all required testing to become user-friendly.

Some of its awesome safety features include a temperature cut-off system and a trip switch. Basically this will totally block any scalding water passing through the system, alleviating any accidental burns. Perfect for the kids and family to use with this kind of protection. It also has a flow detector built-in, to keep the water flow smooth and consistent, with a flow rate of 0.6 gallons per minute.

Cordless

Another great feature here is that it’s completely cordless. Often most portable shower units leave you tied to the nearest power outlet or tap. But with this, you can just fill it up and get going. This gives you a bit of freedom to get outdoors and camp further away from facility dependent camping areas.

Upgrade

Mr. Heater also has an upgraded version of this model. However, with upgraded features, it has a heavier price tag. We also feel that this model will suffice for the average camping group with 6 lots of 5-minute showers. But if you do need a stronger unit which can provide an increased flow rate at 1.16 gallons per minute. Extended battery and power life, hotter water at 42 degrees Fahrenheit, then you can check out their BOSS-XW18 model below.

Key Features:

• Scald Proof Safety Feature
• 6 x 5 Minute Showers
• Heats Water up to 35 Degrees

 

4. RinseKit Portable Outdoor Shower Kit

Check Prices Here

Our last addition to this top list is the outdoor shower kit from RinseKit. It is multi-functional and can be used as a pressure spray to clean and rinse everything around the campsite. Including the car. It’s also viable as a camping shower as this is a bundle that comes with a water heating accessory. This model contains 2 gallons of water, however, they do have larger models that can hold more water but we feel this is the best value purchase.

Bundle Package

As we said, this shower kit comes with great value. A lot of sold separately items, that aren’t cheap, have been thrown in for measure which adds insane buyer value. Firstly the portable shower itself is the RinseKit Plus, which is the improved version of the Original RinseKit model. This version has an additional 2 minutes of spray time, compatible with the pressure pump and has a dual-port design.

Pressure Pump

With the pressure booster pump that has been included in the bundle, you can refill the tank at your convenience. Additionally, it’s used to pressurize the shower unit again and again, even if you don’t have a faucet or hose spigot in the vicinity. Meaning you have the freedom to shower and clean when required.

Hot Water

You may not be able to heat the water to the sun’s temperature like the Zodi shower unit, but a warm temperature nonetheless. It works by using the Hot Rod water heater which comes with the bundle. It’s compatible with any standard 12-volt vehicle accessory socket. After connection, it’s immediately able to heat the water, which is suitable for use with portable camping toilets additionally.

Additionally, it also has a removable lid that you can use as a stand to rinse off your feet, you will also see some of the storage bags used as drink holders, etc. for picnics, and the kit has a lot of different uses.

Key Features:

• Long Pressurized Duration
• Multi-Functional 
• Portable and Lightweight

 

5. Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower

Check Prices Here

A cheap and cheerful camping shower that doesn’t break the budget and works pretty well for the price, in a variety of scenarios. 

From pet grooming, rinsing the tent down, to showering on the campsite in your shower tent, it fits the bill in any outdoor situation where water flow is required. 

Although not the strongest flow in our list, and not by a long shot, however at under $40 we can hardly complain. It does do a fair job for a quick shower for 1 or 2 people, but more than that you will need to refill and start the process again. 

A battery-powered system that can be recharged in a variety of electronics, from laptops to car adapters and a full charge will provide around an hour’s worth of flow. 

The showerhead itself utilizes a suction cup to attach itself to any surfaces, additionally, the S-shaped hook lets you attach it to any roof attachments within your camping tent. 

Key Features:

• Very Economical 
• Small and Compact Size
• Lightweight

 

6. NEMO Helio Portable Shower

Check Prices Here

Here we have a best seller from Nemo who has created an excellent line of utility tents and pressure showers, that have a manual use with a foot-pump. It may seem hard work, but there are a lot of benefits to these types of units. It’s super lightweight, with a shipping weight of only 1.6 pounds, and it also packs down to a very small size which is easily carried. Heated water provided by the natural light of the sun, it’s environmentally friendly to boot.

Solar Feature

Surprisingly it holds more than some of the other pressurized showers, such as the shower kit from RinseKit which holds 2 gallons, while the Helio is holding 3 gallons. They both have a similar spray time though. A really nice feature of the is the outdoor solar shower feature. It heats its water by way of sunlight and it stays reasonably hot for a long duration. So feel free to leave it outside under the sun during the afternoon.

Pressure

Being a portable pressure shower at heart, the water stays pressurized in the tank. By using the foot pump this provides a regulated flow throughout the system, much like your shower head would at home. After pumping up the unit with the foot pump until its fully pressurized, you can enjoy a decent flow of water that will run for around 7 minutes maximum. You can them re-pressurize and then pass it onto the next person.

Versatile

You can use it almost anywhere, which opens up a hell of a lot of options in versatility. With the sunlight heating feature, its perfect for beach days or sunny afternoons at the campsite, even hiking as it folds down really well. You can also use it as a rinsing kit to clean off any dirt and dust from your tents, cars, surfboards, etc.

Key Features:

• 3 Color Choices
• Heated by Sunlight
• Hands-Free Foot Pump

 

7. COSTWAY Tankless Propane Camp Shower

Check Prices Here

A great model from COSTWAY is their tankless camping shower that comes in an excellent value bundle package. Carry bag, hoses, showerheads, and connectors all come free with this package. 

Capable of heating up to 167 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s one of the most powerful heaters in our list, topping many others on the market in terms of high temperatures. Making it a versatile outdoor shower, offering temperatures for warm showers and hot gear rinsing and cleaning. 

They have an integrated security system that protects you from scalding but also doubles as an energy saver, which is great news for when we are out on those long camping trips or camping in a big group. 

A simple set up and stores equally as easy, all in all, a good choice for family camping. 

Key Features:

• 167 Fahrenheit Heating Temp
• Double Safety Security System 
• Excellent Value Package

 

8. Camp Chef HWD5 Triton Water Heater

Check Prices Here

One of the best selling camping showers online is the Triton from Camp Chef, mainly due to its simplicity in setup and economical price tag, nearly $100 cheaper than other propane models, it’s a good budget family portable shower. 

With its fastest flow of 5 liters a minute it heats at 38 degrees Fahrenheit and with its minimal flow of 2 liters, it can reach much higher temperatures of 102 degrees Fahrenheit. 

A unique feature that is well received is the multiple shower head settings, such as mist, jet, and shower, this provides multiple uses in a variety of scenarios. 

The heating unit conveniently turns itself on when the water is turned on and it comes with an elongated 8-foot water hose, one of the longest in our list. 

Key Features:

• Multiple Shower Head Settings
• 8 Foot Shower Hose
• Carry Handle

 

9. Coleman H20asis Portable Shower

Check Prices Here

A familiar name for all campers alike, Coleman has its own model of portable shower in the H2Oasis, which has been performing pretty well on the market thus far. 

With superior heating quality that can heat the water up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit in no time at all, it’s a great choice for those quick early morning showers with the team. 

The showerhead itself comes with a long 6-foot hose that can be attached to a shower pole or tripod for best effect, and the hose is manufactured with silicone, so it won’t kink or knot when stored. 

The pump system is strong with a submersible electric pump, creating a decent water flow with a consistent flow. A free storage bag does come free upon purchase as well, to help you carry the 15lbs camp shower around. 

Key Features:

• 125 Degrees Fahrenheit water in 30 Seconds
• Instant Ignition System
• Full LED Display

 

10. Zodi Outback Gear Hot Tap HP

Check Prices Here

This is an excellent portable propane camping shower by Zodi, a reputable company that has made heaters and portable showers for years and years. Their first products heated water in around 20 minutes, now they’ve kept up with modern times and can deliver portable hot water showers instantaneously. This has incredible synergy when you combine them with pop up shower tents. You can set up an outdoor enclosed hot water shower within 2 minutes.  This is one of the best sellers on the market for propane camping showers and actually portable showers on the whole.

Self-Contained

It’s a totally self-contained shower that has a high-output of hot water, making it perfect for showers and rinse offs during your camping trip. Also ideal for use on boats, cabins and RV’s alike, any large surface unit that needs a good clean. It can also deal with emergencies very well, dousing a small risk fire instantly. It connects via the propane cylinders, which are disposable, or you can choose to connect to a larger 5-gallon propane tank. However, for this option, you will need to get your hands on a bulk propane kit.

Design

You will need to follow a short process, which is easily learned and mastered after a few uses. Like the Mr. Heater model it’s powered with 4 D cell-sized batteries, but uniquely within a waterproof case for this one. After these are added you connect up the propane source and drop the water pump into a preferably clean water source. Conveniently they have integrated a push-button ignition, after pressing this the double burners will begin to heat up the water, at an incredibly fast rate. You will be able to take hot outdoor showers within minutes.

Tips

If you are camping in an area with an accessible water source, the travel case can double as a water tank as it can hold up to 4 gallons. The tank itself holds enough water for 10-minute showers, which is sufficient. You can also hook this up to a garden hose for infinite water flow, although it will also need a garden hose kit for this purpose. There are various ethical practices we must remember and follow when using portable showers and toilets.

Special Note

You need to be careful with this one, as it can heat up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which is operated by the valve and has no cut off safety feature. Please do some testing with the valve to gauge the right temperature before taking showers and then for safety you could cover the valve so someone doesn’t change it by accident and keep it out of sight.

Key Features:

• Water Saving Head
• Non-Clog Feature
• Double Propane System

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Portable Camping Shower?

Essentially a portable shower that has been manufactured to be used and carried around outside. They are usually lightweight, robust and can be used anywhere, as long as you have some kind of water supply or power source.

There are a variety of portable shower systems available on the market that perform best in different environments and for different purposes.

Propane, battery, pressured and solar are the main types you will find on the market. However, all collectively serving as a portable and easy to use outdoor water unit.

 

 

Where to buy a Portable Camping Shower?

There are many places to buy portable showers.

All main hardware stores have them and can be found on an abundance of online E-commerce stores like Amazon and Walmart for example.

They still offer warranties and guarantees via these methods and it’s also useful for the heavier propane units, because of the delivery.

 

How much does a Portable Shower Cost?

In general, they can range anything from $20-300 depending on the quality, shower unit system type and brand.

A cheap and cheerful 2-5 gallon portable shower bag will cost you anything from $20-$40.

Whereas a full-featured, portable propane shower that heats the water, stays pressurized all day and can shower the whole family twice over will be closer to $200-$300.

 

How does a Portable Camping Shower Work?

Propane

They simply work by connecting up to the propane cylinders that will come with the units upon purchase, these serve as your water heaters and will heat the water accordingly.

Secondly, they use batteries, this is to actually start the heating system itself, then when running will heat the water as fore-mentioned.

These offer the best all-round experience for outdoor hot water showers for all the family.

 

Pressure Showers

They keep pressure in different ways, as with most of the models on the market. Some are already pressurized as soon as the water enters the tank from the Faucet.

Gaining pressure from the Faucet itself, and staying pressurized within the tank. The Helio for example, however, is self-pressurized, manually by the foot pump, like you would pump an air tent.

Fill the tank up and press down on the foot pump until it’s at full pressure, it’s as simple as that.

These have equal pressure to a garden hose, so they also make amazing portable rinse kits while of course serving as good outdoor shower units as well.

Without needing batteries or a power supply, they still achieve a powerful flow.

They can’t heat the water themselves as they don’t have a heating system like the propane showers. However, they will heat the water somewhat by being outside by sunlight.

 

Solar Shower Bags

A large bag, usually carrying around 3-5 gallons of water inside, which hooks onto your shower tents interior shower attachment or shelf.

They warm the water using the power of the sun’s rays, the hotter and more intense the sunlight, the better it will heat the water. It would take a few hours to warm up, if left out in the afternoons’ hot sun it heats faster.

The flow isn’t pressurized so don’t expect the water to fire out, but when hung about head height, gravity will bring it out at a decent rate. Enough for a quick wash anyway.

 

How long does the water stay hot?

The portable propane showers can heat the water for hours and hours. The Zodi, for example, can heat the water up to 100 degrees, so you can imagine this will last the whole morning before dropping.

The shower bags and solar showers are less effective in their heating, so the hot water will not last as long. The sun heats the bag and in general, there is some kind of small solar panel that will then heat the water inside.

Of course, this is fully dependent on the duration and heat of the sun that day, if it’s overcast with low heat you can imagine it will not be hot for too long. The water also cannot reach the temperatures of the battery and propane shower units.

 

How long does pressured water spray for?

For the portable pressurized shower units, although they pressurize the water in different ways, they offer very similar results. You will get around 6 rounds of 5-7 minute showers, which is enough to get the whole camping group washed and some leftover for the kit and gear rinsing.

The propane and battery models keep the water pressurized much longer, in general. Just because of the nature of the system, having more power than solar and foot pump showers.

 

How to Maintain a Portable Camping Shower?

Make sure the shower bags and tanks have been completely emptied before compressing down into their carry bags. If there are hoses and showerheads, you can take them apart or squirt a bottle of water through them. To clear any dirt off the head and filters. This is to stop any clogging in the hose and head, which reduces the potential flow of water over time. That’s really all there is too it, just making sure everything is rinsed, cleaned and dried. For the portable showers, paying attention to dirt and debris in the heads and hoses is key. Take care of these things and you’re good as gold.

 

Conclusion

All in all a fantastic way to keep the campsite clean and your bodies too! There’s nothing like a warm shower after a long hike to aid in your sleep for the night.

If there are any portable showers you think we have missed let us know below. Share your experiences of using one below, we would love to hear from you guys.

We hope you found this list and FAQ helpful, if so please share with friends and other camping pals.

 

Resources and Sources

How often should you shower when camping