If you are going on a day hike or weekend camping trip a shower may not be your highest priority. However, they are quite a luxury to have for those longer camping trips. Most of my buddies that I camp with on extended trips are all fine with bathing in the river, but that can be rather cold at times. Having a camping shower provides you with warm water to freshen up after a long day in nature, which can prove to be much needed.
Camping Shower
The main component to your outdoor shower is the shower bag itself. Nemo Helio has a pressurized solar shower that is perfect for camping. What you get is an 11 liter tank, the foot pump, hose & spray nozzle, along with the carrying case. By leaving the bladder out in the sun for a couple hours the water will warm up to a more comfortable temperature. You can also heat water over your stove if desired. The foot pump provides you with consistent pressure which gives you about six minutes of shower time. To control the water you use the spray nozzle, this product is also excellent for washing dishes as well. Weighing just over a pound means that you can easily bring your shower along.
PopUp Privacy
To give yourself (or whoever is using the shower) some privacy you will want something like the pop up changing room by Leapair. The collapsible shelter unfolds in seconds for hassle free setup and takedown. It is also completely waterproof thanks to the durable materials used to make it, taffeta 191 D nylon polyester and flexible steel. It even has a removable floor so you can let the water drain. Four and a half pounds is the weight for this shelter. And it can easily serve multiple purposes including a restroom in addition to a shower (granted you have a portable toilet).
I only use my portable shower on trips that are multiple weeks long where we are posted at one location. Because it is nice to break it up and give yourself a sense of civility.
I want to hear from you
What do you use to keep up with your hygiene in the wild? Have you ever used either of the recommended products? Drop me a comment! I love hearing from you!