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Expert Picks for January 2026

Best Camping Showers

Multi-day camping without a shower gets gross. We compared portable showers from solar bags to pressurized systems, finding what gets you clean outdoors.

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Best Overall Comparison All Products User Reviews Buying Guide FAQ

Best Overall Our top recommendation

Best Overall

Advanced Elements

5 Gallon Solar Summer Shower

4.4 (12,345 reviews)

The classic solar shower that actually works. Four hours in the sun gets you warm water—hang it from a tree and wash off the day's grime.

Capacity

5 gallons

Heating

Solar

Temp Gauge

Yes

Shower Head

Included

Pros

✓ Solar heated
✓ 5 gallon capacity
✓ Temperature gauge

Cons

✗ Needs direct sun
✗ Gravity feed only
✗ Hang point required

$22

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Product	Rating	Price	Action
5 Gallon Solar Summer Shower Best Advanced Elements	4.4	$22	View
Helio Pressure Shower NEMO	4.6	$100	View
Portable Outdoor Shower Value Ivation	4.3	$35	View
Pocket Shower Sea to Summit	4.1	$30	View
5-Gallon Portable Shower Bag KIPIDA	4.2	$16	View

* Prices may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

All Recommended Products

Best Overall

Advanced Elements

5 Gallon Solar Summer Shower

4.4 (12,345 reviews)

The classic solar shower that actually works. Four hours in the sun gets you warm water—hang it from a tree and wash off the day's grime.

Capacity

5 gallons

Heating

Solar

Temp Gauge

Yes

Shower Head

Included

Pros

✓ Solar heated
✓ 5 gallon capacity
✓ Temperature gauge

Cons

✗ Needs direct sun
✗ Gravity feed only
✗ Hang point required

$22

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Premium Pick

NEMO

Helio Pressure Shower

4.6 (2,345 reviews)

Pressurized showering without batteries or hanging. The foot pump delivers real water pressure—game-changer for washing dishes and dogs too.

Capacity

2.9 gallons

Pressure

Foot pump

Hose Length

7 ft

Weight

1 lb

Pros

✓ Foot pump pressure
✓ No hanging required
✓ 2.9 gallon tank

Cons

✗ Premium price
✗ Smaller capacity
✗ Pumping required

$100

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Best Value

Ivation

Portable Outdoor Shower

4.3 (5,678 reviews)

Drop the pump in any water container and you have a shower. Rechargeable battery powers up to an hour of actual water pressure.

Power

Rechargeable battery

Pump Rate

2 GPM

Hose Length

6 ft

Runtime

60 minutes

Pros

✓ Battery powered pump
✓ Works with any container
✓ Rechargeable

Cons

✗ Needs water source
✗ Battery life limited
✗ Basic showerhead

$35

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Budget Pick

Sea to Summit

Pocket Shower

4.1 (3,456 reviews)

Ultra-packable shower for backpackers who refuse to stay dirty. Weighs nothing, packs into your palm—no excuses for skipping the rinse.

Capacity

10L (2.6 gal)

Weight

4.2 oz

Hose Length

36"

Flow

Gravity fed

Pros

✓ Packs tiny
✓ Lightweight
✓ 10L capacity

Cons

✗ Needs hanging point
✗ Slower flow rate
✗ No heating

$30

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KIPIDA

5-Gallon Portable Shower Bag

4.2 (8,765 reviews)

Entry-level solar shower for campers testing the waters. At this price, you can try solar showers without commitment.

Capacity

5 gallons

Heating

Solar

Color

Black for heat absorption

Weight

8 oz

Pros

✓ Very affordable
✓ 5 gallon capacity
✓ Removable hose

Cons

✗ Basic construction
✗ Can leak at seams
✗ Temperature gauge unreliable

$16

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Buying Guide: How to Choose Camping Showers

How to Choose a Camping Shower

Shower Types
Solar Bag: Hang in sun, water heats passively, gravity fed. Simple, no power needed.
Pressurized (Pump): Foot pump or hand pump creates pressure. Better water flow.
Battery Powered: Electric pump draws from any water container. Consistent pressure.
Propane Heated: Instant hot water, heavier setup, requires fuel.

### Capacity Considerations
5 gallons: Standard for 1-2 showers (quick rinses)
- 2-3 gallons: Ultralight options, enough for one thorough shower
- 10+ gallons: Extended trips, multiple people

### Heating Options
Solar: 3-4 hours in sun for warm water. Free but weather dependent.
Propane: Instant hot water. Adds weight and fuel cost.
Electric: Some battery units connect to portable water heaters.
None: Cold showers build character (and happen on cloudy days).

### Privacy Solutions
Solar showers need a private hanging spot. Consider:
- Pop-up shower tents
- Tarps rigged between trees
- Natural features (not poison ivy)

Frequently Asked Questions About Camping Showers

How long does a solar shower take to heat?

In direct sun, 3-4 hours gets water to 100-110°F. Black bags absorb more heat. On cloudy days, expect lukewarm at best.

How many showers can I get from 5 gallons?

With efficient "military style" showering (wet, turn off, soap, rinse), two quick showers. Leaving water running, about one 5-7 minute shower.

Can I use a camping shower for dishes?

Absolutely. Pressurized showers are especially useful for rinsing dishes, washing gear, and cleaning muddy dogs.

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