Using a Camper Van for Bathing

Using a Camper Van for Bathing

For those embarking on a camper van adventure, the question of how to maintain personal hygiene while on the road can be a concern. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the various options available for outdoor showers, ensuring a clean and comfortable journey.

Cost-Effective Alternatives to Indoor Showers

Accessing unlimited hot showers through gym memberships or paid campgrounds can be a cost-effective and convenient alternative to installing an indoor van shower. However, for those who prefer a more self-sufficient approach, portable showers can be a practical solution.

Outdoor Showers for an Active Lifestyle

An outdoor shower can be a convenient and practical option for those who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. Conserving water usage is key to avoiding refilling the clean water tank or constantly dumping grey water.

Portable Showers for Van Lifers

Portable showers are a convenient option for many van lifers when facilities are not available. Solar showers are a practical and eco-friendly solution for outdoor showering, utilizing the sun's energy to heat water without plumbing.

Camper Van Shower Duration

It's important to note that camper van shower durations are typically shorter than those of a normal home shower, often limited to 5 minutes or less.

Useful Features in Escape's Camper Vans

Escape's camper vans come equipped with several useful features for trips, including a propane stove, sink with water tank, refrigerator, foldaway tables and benches, extra storage, queen size beds, and bucket seats that don't have to be collapsed to make the bed. However, these vans do not come with showers or toilets, offering less expensive and easier maintenance options for renters.

Finding Outdoor Showers on the Road

To find outdoor shower locations for your campervan while traveling, you have several practical options:

1. Use Campsites and RV Parks with Shower Facilities: Many campgrounds and RV parks offer outdoor shower facilities or shower buildings, which you can find by searching camping directories or apps like Campendium, KOA, or AllStays. These spots provide reliable shower access with privacy.
2. Utilize Outdoor Showers at Beaches or Public Parks: Some beaches and public parks have outdoor showers intended for rinsing off after swimming, which can be handy in warm weather, but privacy may be limited.
3. Consider Portable or Built-In Campervan Shower Systems: If you want a shower on demand, portable solar showers, pressurized portable showers, or a fixed outdoor shower setup attached to your van (hose with spray nozzle, sometimes with an enclosure for privacy) are popular among vanlifers, especially in warmer climates.
4. Avoid Showering Near Natural Water Sources: When using outdoor showers or portable showers in the wild, ensure you’re at least 200 feet from any water source such as lakes, rivers, or streams and use biodegradable soap to minimize environmental impact.

Additional Tips

• Search campervan or vanlife online communities, groups, and social media (including TikTok videos) where travelers share shower spots and setup ideas.
• Military RV rental bases sometimes have full shower facilities—a potential option if traveling near such locations.
• If you choose to set up your own outdoor shower, consider a camping shower tent or privacy curtain to enhance privacy while showering outdoors.

By combining campsite research, portable shower gear, and local outdoor facilities, you can access outdoor shower locations that fit your campervan travel needs efficiently and responsibly.

Heating the Water and Grey Water Disposal

Heating the water before use is important when using portable showers to avoid taking an uncomfortable cold shower. When the dirty water tank fills up, grey water disposal in your area must be found, such as RV dump stations or waste disposal centers.

In conclusion, with a bit of planning and the right equipment, camper van travelers can maintain their hygiene needs without compromising on their outdoor adventures. Happy travels!

[1] Source: Van Life Magazine [2] Source: Van Life Diaries [3] Source: Outdoor Project [4] Source: Military OneSource [5] Source: The Dyrt

1. For those seeking cost-effective alternatives to indoor showers while embracing a camper van lifestyle, gym memberships or paid campgrounds offering shower facilities can serve as viable solutions.
2. Portable showers are practical for outdoor living in a van, helping to conserve water and providing a convenient solution when facilities are not available.
3. Outdoor showers are useful for those who love an active lifestyle, allowing them to wash off after a day spent hiking or exploring in the great outdoors.
4. Escape's camper vans are equipped with various useful features, but they do not come with showers or toilets, which can help reduce maintenance costs for renters.
5. To find outdoor showers while on the road, van lifers can utilize campsites and RV parks, beaches and public parks, or set up their own portable solar or pressurized showers for use in warmer climates. It's also essential to consider the environment when showering in nature, being mindful of water sources and using biodegradable soap.

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