After a fun day at the beach, rinsing off sand and saltwater is essential. “On-the-go” showers provide a convenient solution, making it easy to clean up before heading home.
These showers are lightweight, easy to use and often come with solar options to facilitate a warm, refreshing experience even in remote locations. (No need to rely on public showers!)
Benefits of Solar Travel Showers
Sun showers are designed for ease and convenience. They typically weigh very little, making them easy to transport and set up.
Imagine finishing your beach day with a warm shower under the open sky. With a solar-powered option, you can channel the sun’s energy to heat the water, giving you a comfortable rinse-off without needing electricity.
Choosing the Right Mobile Outdoor Shower:
When selecting a shower, it’s important to consider several key factors to confirm you get the best experience.
Weight & Portability
First and foremost, assess the weight and portability of the shower. Opt for models that are light and compact, so they can easily fit into your beach bag or car without adding significant bulk.
For example, the Beachbox shower is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for beach trips. The goal is to have a shower that you can effortlessly transport to and from the beach, aka maximum convenience.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is another crucial aspect. The best travel showers are designed to be straightforward to set up and operate. Look for intuitive designs that don’t require complicated instructions.
The Nemo Helio foot pump shower, for instance, features a simple pump mechanism that allows for hands-free operation and consistent water pressure. This lets you spend more time relishing your shower and less time figuring out how to use it.
Water Capacity
Consider the water capacity of the shower. Depending on your needs, you might prefer a shower with a larger water reservoir. Typically, transportable showers can hold enough water for a quick rinse or a more extended shower.
If you plan on sharing the shower with family or friends or if you prefer longer showers, a model with a larger capacity, like those with rechargeable battery water pumps, would be more suitable. On the other hand, if you need a quick rinse-off–a smaller, more compact model will do the trick.
Heating Options
Solar-heated showers use the sun’s power to warm the water, providing a more indulgent bathing experience. They are eco-friendly and cost-effective, harnessing renewable energy to give you warm water without the need for electricity or gas. When choosing one, consider the material and design of the water reservoir.
Darker colors and materials that retain heat will enhance the heating efficiency, enabling you to have warm water even on cooler days. For example, the Beachbox comes with a black insulating neoprene cover that maximizes heat retention, providing a warm shower even in cooler conditions.
Solar-Heated Portable Showers: Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly: Solar showers use renewable energy, reducing your environmental footprint.
- Warm Water: Indulge in the luxury of warm water without the need for electricity or gas.
- Convenience: Easy to set up and use, perfect for remote locations without access to traditional showers.
- Compact & Portable: Small enough to fit in any car or even backpack., plus, many fold flat
Cons:
- Dependence on Sunlight: Overcast days can limit the water temperature, so hot is not guaranteed.
- Heat Duration: The water might cool down quickly in the evening or during cloudy weather.
- Initial Setup: Some models may require a bit of time to set up and heat initially.
Tips for Enhancing Your Outdoor Shower Experience:
Location: Select a spot with ample sunlight for solar models, so the water heats up efficiently. Additionally, pick a space that offers privacy for a comfortable and relaxing shower experience. A secluded area away from the main beach crowd can provide the perfect balance of sunlight and seclusion.
Timing: Plan your shower for the late afternoon when the sun has had ample time to warm the water adequately. This strategy permits you bask in a comfortably warm shower, perfect for washing off the day’s sand and saltwater. Plus, it can be a soothing way to transition from a day of beach activities to a relaxing evening.
Accessories: Enhance your shower setup by bringing along a shower tent or privacy screen. These pop-up enclosures provide added comfort and convenience, creating a private space for you to shower without any interruptions. They also help shield you from wind or unexpected weather changes, making your outdoor shower experience more relaxing.
Maintenance: Regularly clean and dry your shower after each use to prevent mold and mildew buildup. Store it in a dry, cool place when not in use to ensure it remains in good condition for future beach trips. Taking these steps will extend the lifespan of your shower and keep it a reliable part of your beach gear.
The Bottom Line:
Investing in an “on-the-go” shower revolutionizes the beach experience. Rinsing off sand and saltwater with warm, solar-heated water transforms your post-beach routine.
Consider factors like weight, ease of use, water capacity and heating options to find the perfect mobile outdoor shower. Enjoy the convenience and eco-friendliness of solar showers, plus a little bit of “home comfort” after every beach adventure.
Last Updated July 17, 2024