One of the best inventions that made way for civilized societies is the invention of self-cleaning tools like showers, bathtubs, brushes, commodes, etc. Even the biggest of the campers would agreeably dislike the feeling of getting soaked in mud, dirt, and sweat and remaining so until you get back to your sweet home to take the first bath in days or even weeks.
Don’t restrict yourself from enjoying the joys of civilization just because you are somewhere in the middle of the woods. Do your body a favor and buy yourself a solar camping shower. It also makes for a good gift for your camping freak friends.
We bring you this comprehensive best camping solar showers list that walks you through every point necessary before you choose to shop.
- Quick Overview
- 10 Best Camping Solar Showers
- Why do you need a camping solar shower?
- Why a hot shower?
- Buyer’s Guide – Best Camping Solar Showers
- 10 Best Camping Solar Showers – In-Depth Review
- Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Solar Shower
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Quick Comparison Of Best Camping Headlamps
- Final Verdict
In A Hurry?? – Quick Overview of Best Camping Solar Showers
10 Best Camping Solar Showers
- ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower
- Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower
- CenYC Camping Solar Shower Bag
- Intex Solar Shower
- Stearns Sunshower
- RISEPRO Solar Shower Bag
- KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag
- VIGLT Portable Shower Bag
- Trofoty Solar Camping Shower Bag
- ELECTRFIRE Solar Shower Bag
Quick Comparison Of Best Camping Headlamps
| Product | Capacity | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower | 5 gallon | 1.32 Pounds | Check Price |
| 2. Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower | 5 gallon | 8.8 Ounces | Check Price |
| 3. CenYC Camping Solar Shower Bag | 5 gallon | 0.352 ounces | Check Price |
| 4. Intex Solar Shower | 5 gallon | 1.34 Pounds | Check Price |
| 5. Stearns Sunshower | 4 gallon | 1.34 Pounds | Check Price |
| 6. RISEPRO Solar Shower Bag | 10 gallon | 1.15 Pounds | Check Price |
| 7. KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag | 5 gallon | 15.2 Ounces | Check Price |
| 8. VIGLT Portable Shower Bag | 5 gallon | 0.45 Kg | Check Price |
| 9. Trofoty Solar Camping Shower Bag | 5 gallon | 1.06 Pounds | Check Price |
| 10. ELECTRFIRE Solar Shower Bag | 5 gallon | 1.10 Pounds | Check Price |
Why do you need a camping solar shower?
Who can argue the colossal refreshment that comes with spending a few days outdoors away from the noise and commotion of daily life.
There are modern campsites that come equipped with showers, toilets, and eateries but do you really have to restrict yourself to camping in these sites only and not go deep into the woods or somewhere on a mountain top or near a lake?
Backpack camping or not, you still need to carry some eatables and some clothes to change, why not also carry a portable camping solar shower that gets you clean and doubles the outdoor joy?
Solar showers run on the power of the sun which is renewable and thus eco-friendly. Make sure you buy one that is durable enough and then you can keep using the same shower again and again for years to come.
If you still are not satisfied with why you would need a hot shower even while camping then we got that covered below.
Why a hot shower?
Without getting into scientific details, we explain the benefits of a hot shower below:
- Improved cardiovascular health- This happens because warm water helps ease the stiffness of arteries and gets you relaxed.
- Improved muscle and joint health- Since warm water eases stiffness of arteries, it also enhances blood flow, soothes stiff joints and tired muscle.
- Improved brain health- warm water promotes learning, memory, and maintenance of nerve cells.
- Improved sleep – Body temperature falls when asleep. The rise in body temperature while taking a hot shower combined with the fall in body temperature while sleeping helps the body to relax and improves sleep quality.
Buyer’s Guide – Best Camping Solar Showers
Temperature indicator
Don’t want to keep burning your finger to know water temperature? Temperature indicator showers are a savior.
Water capacity
1 gallon equals 5 liters so a 5-gallon water capacity shower carries 25 liters of water. The water capacity of these showers depends on how many people are going to use it, how many times, and whether it affects portability. A shower with a water capacity of more than 5 gallons affects portability.
Weight
If you aren’t looking to carry your own water for showering and washing then you would want to look for a shower that is lightweight and easily portable.
Materials
Durability must be a top priority characteristic of a camping gadget. Choose a material that is not easily susceptible to puncturing or ripping lest it should result in water leakage. Durability should not affect the weight of the shower which in turn might affect its portability.
Water flow capacity
Is the water flow powerful enough to get soap off and shampoo?
Installation
Ease of installation is a real thing when it comes to camping gadgets because you might not always find someone to help you since, while camping, you would be far far away from civilization. Some showers take 2 people to install while others can very easily be hung by just 1 person.
Heating Capacity
The heating capacity of a solar camping shower depends on the materials it is made of, whether or not it is efficient in heat absorption and heat retention. Make sure your solar shower bag is thick enough to carry water and heat it efficiently. The black side of the bag increases heat absorption efficiency and some shower bags have a clear side so that sunlight can penetrate and heat the water.
Hose length
Some showers have a long hose and some come with smaller ones. Check the hose length and buy the one that suits you.
10 Best Camping Solar Showers – In-Depth Review
1. ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower
Best Overall Camping Solar Shower
Key Features
- Water capacity- 5 gallons/25 liters
- Side storage pocket
- Temperature gauge
- Velcro straps for washcloths
- Weight- 1.4 lbs
- Wide handle grip
- Wide reservoir mouth
- Twist-off cap
- Built-in mirror
- Hose length- 15 inches
- head/nozzle controlled flow rate
- Leakproof build
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 1.32 Pounds |
| Dimension | 20 x 6 x 2 inches |
Our Opinion
The ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower is a camping solar hot water system that carries a water capacity of 5 gallon/25 liters. We found the reservoir easy to fill given its wide mouth which came in handy when it was time to dry it.
The twist-off cap made filling the reservoir convenient. The built-in reflective mirror was a one-stop solution for all our grooming needs. The temperature gauge helped indicate the temperature without having to burn our fingers. The flow rate could be easily controlled using the nozzle.
The body was lightweight (1.4 lbs) when empty and was found to be durable enough to hold 5 gallons of water. The wide grip handle made it easy to carry around even with the shower bag/reservoir filled to max capacity. The plug screws securely in place which helped prevent leaks.
One flaw that we found in our experience with the ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower was that the shower nozzle was smaller than other solar showers. The ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower comes as the best customer rated even with its flaws.
What We Like
- Temperature gauge
- Controllable flow rate
- Lightweight
- Wide grip handle
- Wide reservoir mouth
- Leak proof build
What We Don’t Like
- Smaller nozzle
2. Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower
Great Value Camping Solar Shower
Key Features
- Water capacity- 5 gallons/25 liters
- Strong handle
- Easy to use on/off shower head valve
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Heat-locking material
- Lightweight (8.8 oz)
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 8.8 Ounces |
| Dimension | 8.7 x 6.5 x 2.2 inches |
Our Opinion
The Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower is a camping solar hot water bag that has water carrying capacity of 5 gallons. We found the body to be lightweight (8.8 oz) when empty and durable enough to carry 5 gallons of water.
The strong handle made it easy to be carried even with the reservoir filled to max capacity. The body of the reservoir was found to be made of heat- locking material that warms the water when left in the sun and retains the heat for longer periods.
What makes it lightweight is also the thin but sturdy plastic used in its making. The whole of the shower system was compact which, coupled with its lightweight, made it easily portable.
One flaw we experienced was the long drying time because of the smallmouth of the reservoir. Even with a hairdryer, it took us a few days to dry it. Even with its flaws, we recommend the Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower which is the most compact camping solar shower on this list.
What We Like
- Heat- locking material
- Strong handle
- Durable
- Compact
- Portable
What We Don’t Like
- Smaller reservoir mouth
3. CenYC Camping Solar Shower Bag
Most Popular Portable Solar Shower
Key Features
- 113 °F (45 °C) in 3 hours under direct sunlight
- Water capacity- 4 gallons/ 20 litres
- Temperature indicator
- Compact
- Waterproof
- Leak-proof
- Durable
- Lightweight (0.35 oz)
- Strong adjustable carrying strap
- Wide reservoir mouth
- Silicone waterproof ring around the mouth
- Black surface increases heat absorption
- BPA free plastic
- Foot pump
- Body made of TPU material
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 0.352 ounces |
| Dimension | 12.6 x 3.94 x 3.15 inches |
Our Opinion
The CenYC Camping Solar Shower Bag is a backpacking solar shower that has water carrying capacity of 4 gallons/ 20 liters and is made of TPU material. TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane that is resistant to abrasion, grease and is elastic. Further, the plastic used in its making is BPA free.
We found the wide-mouthed reservoir useful because it made the filling and drying it convenient. The adjustable strap made carrying the shower easy.
The lightweights of the system (8.8 oz) contributed to its easy portability. The system also has a foot pump that could also be used to get hot water. We found the bag durable enough to carry 4 gallons of water. The temperature indicator helped to specify the heat without having to burn our fingers.
We did find 4 gallons pretty less for our cleaning needs but that is what makes the CenYC Camping Solar Shower Bag the most portable camping solar shower on this list.
What We Like
- TPU material build
- Foot pump
- Compact
- Temperature indicator
- Adjustable strap
- Wide mouth
What We Don’t Like
- Lesser water capacity
4. Intex Solar Shower
Most Durable Camping Solar Hot Water System
Key Features
- Water capacity- 5 gallons
- Heating capacity- 118 degrees
- Sturdy carrying/hanging handle
- on/off valve that also controls the flow rate
- Lightweight (1.34 lbs)
- Durable
- Thermostat
- Compact
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 1.34 Pounds |
| Dimension | 1.5 x 19.2 x 26 inches |
Our Opinion
The Intex Solar Shower is a portable solar shower that has a water carrying capacity of 5 gallons/25 liters. We found that the water flow rate could be easily handled by the on/off valve.
The system was lightweight (1.34 lbs) when empty and durable enough to carry around even filled at its max capacity. The sturdy carrying handle and the build of the system also contributed to its portability.
The thermostat made it easy to put a number on the temperature without having to burn our fingers.
The flaw that came with this is the little water pressure that we experienced. But getting the Intex Solar Shower, the most durable camping solar shower on this list should make it worthwhile to trade such a flaw.
What We Like
- Thermostat
- Lightweight
- Controllable flow rate
- Durable
What We Don’t Like
- Little water pressure
5. Stearns Sunshower
Most Favored Solar Powered Shower Bag
Key Features
- Water capacity- 4 gallons/ 20 L
- Strong carrying/hanging handle
- on/off valve
- Temperature indicator
- Lightweight (1.34 lbs)
- Controllable water flow
- Longer heat retention
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 4 gallon |
| Weight | 1.34 Pounds |
| Dimension | 6 x 20 x 1.5 inches |
Our Opinion
The Stearns Sunshower is a solar-powered shower that has a water carrying capacity of 4 gallons/20 L. We found the bag to be compact and easily portable given its lightweight (1.34 oz) and the sturdy carrying handle.
The temperature indicator helped to put a number on the temperature without having to burn our fingers. The flow rate could be easily controlled by the on/off valve of the shower head/nozzle.
The nozzle could be conveniently operated even with soapy hands which is a major attraction when shopping for camping solar showers. The heat- locking material used in its build increased water retention for longer periods.
We found that the reservoir mouth was smaller than other solar showers that made cleaning and drying difficult. Other than this, the Stearns Sunshower is the most favored camping solar shower on this list.
What We Like
- Nozzle can be operated even with soapy hands
- Controllable water flow rate
- Lightweight
- Temperature indicator
- Longer heat retention
What We Don’t Like
- Smaller reservoir mouth
6. RISEPRO Solar Shower Bag
Highest Water Capacity Solar Powered Shower
Key Features
- Water capacity- 10 gallons/40 L
- Temperature indicator
- Heating capacity- 45°C in 3 hours
- Controllable flow rate with nozzle
- Leak-proof
- Flexible hose
- Eco-friendly
- Lightweight (1.15 lbs)
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 10 gallon |
| Weight | 1.15 Pounds |
| Dimension | 9.5 x 5.6 x 2.3 inches |
Our Opinion
The RISEPRO Solar Shower Bag is a large camping solar shower that has water carrying capacity of 10 gallons/40 L. We found the water capacity large enough for a large group of people if used resourcefully.
The company offers a shower made from eco-friendly materials and rightly so. We found the hose flexible enough to shower with ease and not having to crouch for the hose to work.
The system was lightweight (1.15 lbs) when empty and durable enough to carry 10 gallons of water. Although we do recommend to not carry around 10 gallons of water because it is too heavy to be practically portable.
The water flow rate could be easily controlled using the on/off valve of the nozzle. The temperature indicator made it easy to put a number on the water temperature without having to burn our fingers.
The system also showed a good heating capacity and can heat water up to 45°C in 3 hours. Get the highest water capacity solar shower bag with the RISEPRO Solar Shower Bag.
What We Like
- Temperature indicator
- Large water capacity
- Durable
- Decent heating capacity
- Controllable flow rate
What We Don’t Like
- Too heavy to be practically portable/hangable
7. KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag
Most Versatile Camping Solar Shower
Key Features
- Leak-proof build
- Water capacity- 5 gallons/ 25 L
- Eco-friendly build
- Heating capacity- 113°F (45°C) in 3 hours
- Controllable water flow with on/off nozzle
- Temperature indicator
- Lightweight (0.97 lbs)
- Compact
- Portable
- Mesh storage pocket
- Good water pressure
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 15.2 Ounces |
| Dimension | 12 x 6 x 2.4 inches |
Our Opinion
The KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag is a solar hot water camping bag that has water carrying capacity of 5 gallons/25 L. We found the bag to be lightweight (0.97 lbs) when empty and durable enough to carry around even when filled up to its max capacity. The strong handle also contributed to its portability.
When not in use, the bag could be easily folded which makes it convenient for storage. The Company offers an eco-friendly build and rightly so.
We found the storage mesh pocket-helpful to keep our toiletries like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, etc. The flow rate was controllable by the on/off valve connected to the nozzle/ shower head. The water pressure was also found to be better than in other solar showers.
The temperature indicator helped put a number on the temperature without having to burn our fingers. The system offered a good heating capacity and could heat water up to 113°F (45°C) in 3 hours under direct sunlight.
We simply couldn’t find any flaws with the most versatile camping solar shower, the KIPIDA Solar Shower Bag.
What We Like
- Temperature indicator
- Mesh storage pocket
- Good water pressure
- Portable
- Durable
What We Don’t Like
- Couldn’t find any!
8. VIGLT Portable Shower Bag
Most Lightweight Camping Solar Shower
Key Features
- 5 gallons
- Leakproof design
- Portable
- Durable
- Strong grip carrying handle
- Front storage pocket
- Removable hose
- Temperature gauge
- Transparent back to check the water level
- Eco-friendly build
- Velcro washcloth holders
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 0.45 Kilograms |
| Dimension | 12.91 x 6.34 x 2.87 inches |
Our Opinion
The VIGLT Portable Shower Bag is a portable camping solar shower that has water carrying capacity of 5 gallons. We found the system to be leak-proof given the ‘double switch’ design that the company offers.
The rotatable switch at the bottom of the bag and the showerhead make the water flow only when both of them are rotated and the channels are opened. This makes it highly leak proof.
The bag could be easily folded when not in use which made it convenient for storage. The front storage pocket offered a place to keep our toiletries like shampoo, soap, etc.
The temperature gauge helped put a number on the temperature without having to burn our fingers. The handle was sturdy and comfortable enough to carry the bag even when filled up to its max capacity. The transparent back helped to check the water level without having to estimate it.
One flaw that we experienced was that the water flow rate could not be controlled like in other solar showers on this list. Nonetheless, the pros far outweigh the cons with the VIGLT Portable Shower Bag.
What We Like
- Transparent back to check the water level
- Temperature gauge
- Leak-proof build
- Grip handle
- Front storage pocket
What We Don’t Like
- Flow rate not controllable
9. Trofoty Solar Camping Shower Bag
Brightest Headlamp for Camping
Key Features
- Water capacity- 5 gallons
- Temperature indicator
- Eco-friendly build
- Controllable water flow rate
- Lightweight (1.06 lbs)
- Easy to install
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 1.06 Pounds |
| Dimension | 11.8 x 5.1 x 2.9 inches |
Our Opinion
The Trofoty Solar Camping Shower Bag is a backpacking camping solar shower that has water carrying capacity of 5 gallons. The company offers an eco-friendly build with 3 layer PVC that also makes it leak proof.
We found the system to be lightweight (1.06 lbs) and compact enough to fold when empty. It could be conveniently carried around even when filled to its max capacity.
The temperature indicator helped put a number on the temperature without having to burn our fingers. The system was easily portable and could be as easily installed. The nozzle also offered a means to control the flow rate.
We found that this shower was not the most durable around. Even with its shortcomings, the Trofoty Solar Camping Shower Bag is the most favored solar camping shower on this list.
What We Like
- Temperature indicator
- Portable
- Easy installation
- Controllable flow rate
- Lightweight
What We Don’t Like
- Not the most durable
10. ELECTRFIRE Solar Shower Bag
Best Customer Rated Camping Solar Shower
Key Features
- Water capacity- 5 gallons
- Eco-friendly build
- Good heat adsorption
- Heating capacity- 94°F/45°C within 3 hours
- Front storage pocket
- Durable
- Lightweight (1.10 lbs)
- Long hose
- Sturdy handle
- Controllable water flow rate
- Thermometer
Technical Specifications
| Capacity | 5 gallon |
| Weight | 1.10 lbs |
| Dimension | 13.9 x 6.0 x 2.4 inch |
Our Opinion
The ELECTRFIRE Solar Shower Bag is a portable camping solar shower that has water carrying capacity of 5 gallons. We Found the bag durable enough to carry 5 gallons of water and the powerful and sturdy handle made it convenient to carry the bag even when filled up to its max capacity.
The company offers an eco-friendly build and rightly so. The thermometer helped indicate the water temperature.
The hose was long enough to use without having to crouch which is a major attraction when shopping for a solar camping shower. The storage pocket provided a place to store our toiletries on the go.
The system was energy efficient and presented a good heating capacity and could heat water up to 94°F/45°C within 3 hours. The water flow rate could be controlled by the on/off valve connected to the nozzle.
One flaw that we came across was the lesser water pressure. Trade such shortcoming for the most energy-efficient camping solar shower on this list, the ELECTRFIRE Solar Shower Bag.
What We Like
- Thermometer
- Storage pocket
- Controllable flow rate
- Energy efficient
- Long hose
What We Don’t Like
- Lesser water pressure
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Solar Shower
We never forget to mention pros and cons of every product on every list we put together. Here we also put a separate ‘merits and demerits’ section to help you decide and satisfy your camping needs.
Advantages
- Go green- solar showers rely on the sun’s power which is renewable, abundant, and clean. A durable solar shower could be used for years if you maintain it properly. These showers do not even need a solar panel to run.
- Cost-effective– a portable camping solar shower offers a good return on investment.
- Easy to install and use– No complex mechanisms. Easy to install and easy to use.
- Refreshing– Helps in keeping you fresh even when you are in the middle of nowhere.
- Portable– Solar showers are also very portable and easy to move around. There is a solar camping bag type that is great for those who love camping and other outdoor activities. It’s just typically a bag that you can just carry around with you.
Disadvantages
- No Sun, No hot water- Forget showering in hot water if your campsite is in the arctic or somewhere where sunlight is a rarity.
- Longer heating time- Solar showers need at least 3-4 hours to get the water to hot which might get even slower on cloudy, windy, or rainy days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Verdict
Let us help you knock off the upcoming camp from your to-do list by providing you with just the right gear. Planning on getting dirty while on your camp? We won’t stop you. Get one of these showers to keep you clean no matter how dirty you get.
Go ahead and click the links provided to shop the best deals and make your rucksacks truly camp ready.
Our best pick is the ADVANCED ELEMENTS 5 Gallon Summer Shower which is the most durable, portable, energy efficient and the best customer rated camping solar shower.
If added features is what you are looking for then we recommend the CenYC Camping Solar Shower Bag.
Did we miss something? Any other product that you think should be on the best camping solar showers list?
Do leave your comments below in the comments section so we know if we got your camping needs right.
Don’t forget to tell us your experience with a listed product.
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