Camping Showers

Stay Fresh While Camping

A camping shower is one of those bits of kit you might not think about until you really need it. After a muddy walk, beach day, bike ride or sweaty afternoon setting up the tent, being able to rinse off at your pitch can make a huge difference.

Camping showers are useful for washing people, rinsing muddy boots, cleaning dogs, freshening up wetsuits, washing sand off feet and tackling grubby camping gear before it goes back in the car. They are especially handy if campsite facilities are busy, basic or far from your pitch.

For UK camping, where mud, rain and chilly mornings are all part of the adventure, a portable shower can help keep your tent, vehicle and sleeping gear cleaner too.

How to Choose a Camping Shower

Start by thinking about how you’ll use it. If you only need a quick rinse after the beach or muddy walks, a simple portable shower may be enough. If you want something closer to a proper wash, look for a setup with better water capacity, flow control and privacy options.

Key decision factors include water capacity, flow rate, heating method, packed size, weight, ease of filling, power source, hose length, shower head design, privacy setup and how easy it is to empty, clean and store.

You should also consider where your water will come from. Some showers need to be filled manually, while others may draw from a container. Always check product details so you know what is included and what extra kit you may need.

Solar Showers vs Pump Camping Showers

Solar camping showers are simple, lightweight and useful for basic washing. They usually use a water bag that warms in the sun, making them a low-fuss option for summer trips, festivals and campers who want minimal kit.

Pump camping showers can offer a steadier flow and more control. Some are manual, while others may be battery-powered or rechargeable, depending on the design. They can be better for family camping, campervan trips or rinsing off gear, but they may need more setup, charging or water storage.

The trade-off is simplicity versus convenience. A solar shower is compact and easy to pack, while a pump shower may feel more practical if you want better pressure or more flexible use around camp.

Portable Showers for Families, Festivals and Campervans

For family camping, a portable shower can be useful for children, pets, muddy clothes and everyday campsite mess. A larger water capacity or easy-refill design may save repeated trips to the tap.

For festivals, compact showers or rinse kits can help you freshen up when facilities are limited or queues are long. Pack size matters here, as you may need to carry everything from the car park to your pitch.

For campervans, camping showers can work well as part of a simple outdoor wash area. Pairing a portable shower with a privacy tent, water container and quick-dry towels can make longer trips feel much more comfortable.

Useful Features to Look For

A good camping shower should be easy to fill, quick to set up and simple to use when you’re tired, cold or muddy. Look for a secure cap, comfortable handle, practical hose length and a shower head that gives you enough control over the water flow.

If privacy matters, consider whether you need a shower tent, screen or separate changing area. If you’ll be using warm water, check the product guidance carefully and test the temperature before use to avoid scalding.

For regular camping, durability and ease of cleaning are important. A shower that dries properly, stores neatly and does not leak in your kit bag will be much more pleasant to use again.

Using Camping Showers Responsibly

Always follow campsite rules when using a camping shower. Some sites may have guidance on where you can shower, how to dispose of wastewater and whether portable showers are allowed at pitches.

Use biodegradable washing products only where appropriate and permitted, and avoid letting soapy water run into streams, lakes, rivers or natural habitats. If the campsite provides grey water disposal points, use them.

Keep electric or battery-powered shower equipment away from unsafe water exposure and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. After use, empty and dry the shower where possible before packing it away to help prevent smells and mildew.

Camping Shower Tips for UK Trips

UK weather can be unpredictable, so plan your shower setup before you need it. On cooler days, a quick rinse may be more realistic than a long wash, especially if you are using a basic solar shower.

Keep towels, clean clothes and toiletries ready before you start. A small mat or pair of sandals can help keep your feet cleaner, while a dry bag is useful for separating wet towels and clothing afterwards.

If you’re camping with children or pets, a portable shower can double as a handy rinse-off station before anyone climbs into the tent or car. That alone can save a lot of mess.

Shop Camping Showers Online

Browse our camping showers range to find practical washing and rinsing solutions for campsites, festivals, campervan trips, family camping and outdoor adventures. Compare solar showers, pump showers, portable rinse kits and shower accessories to choose a setup that suits the way you camp.

Camping Showers FAQs

What is a camping shower used for?

A camping shower is used for washing, rinsing and freshening up while outdoors. It can also be useful for cleaning muddy boots, rinsing pets, washing sand off feet and keeping camping gear cleaner.

Are camping showers worth it?

Yes, a camping shower can be worth it if you camp for more than one night, travel with children or pets, visit beaches, go walking or stay at campsites with limited shower facilities.

How do camping showers work?

Camping showers work in different ways. Some use gravity from a hanging water bag, some warm water using sunlight, and others use a manual or powered pump to move water through a hose and shower head.

What is the difference between a solar shower and a pump shower?

A solar shower is usually a water bag that warms in the sun and uses gravity to provide flow. A pump shower uses manual, battery or rechargeable power to move water, often giving more control and flexibility.

Can I use warm water in a camping shower?

Some camping showers can be used with warm water, but you should always check the product instructions first. Test the water before use and never use water that is too hot, as it can cause burns.

Do I need a shower tent for camping?

A shower tent is useful if you want privacy when washing or changing. It is especially helpful for family camping, longer trips, festivals and campsites where your pitch is open or busy.

How much water do I need for a camping shower?

The amount depends on the shower type and how long you use it. A quick rinse uses much less water than a full wash, so choose a capacity that suits your group size, water access and trip length.

Can I use a camping shower at a UK campsite?

Many campsites allow portable showers, but rules vary. Check the campsite guidance before using one, especially for wastewater disposal, pitch use and washing products.

How do I store a camping shower after use?

Empty it fully, rinse if needed, and let it dry before packing it away. Store hoses, shower heads and bags neatly to help prevent leaks, smells and mildew between trips.

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