Living in a van can be an exciting and liberating way of life, but it also requires some adjustments to your daily routines, including showering. There are several options for showering in vanlife, each with its own pros and cons. Many vanlifers will operate with a combination of several of these options, because they’re useful in different scenarios and regions. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular options, and provide tips and tricks for making the most of them.
Most importantly, we’ll identify resources along the way to help you find places to shower while living in a van. Beyond the option-specific methods we list throughout, there are several multi-purpose websites and apps that can help find showers near you. For instance, iOverlander, Allstays, and Roadtrippers. These resources allow users to share information and reviews about showers and other amenities, making it easier to find reliable options.
Public Showers
One of the easiest and most convenient options for showering when living in a van is to use public showers. These can be found in most campgrounds, RV parks, truck stops, gyms, and recreation centers. For examples:
Public swimming pools: Pools often have showers available for use, and many offer day passes or reduced rates for non-residents. Check with your local parks and recreation department or use online resources like Swimply or Swimia to find public pools near you.
Rest area and truck stops: Many truck stops and rest areas along highways have shower facilities that are available to the public for a fee. Pilot Flying J, Love's, and TA Truck Service are some of the largest truck stop chains in the US. You can use apps like Trucker Path or Allstays to find truck stops and rest areas with showers.
Community / recreation centers: Many community centers and recreation facilities have showers available for public use. Check with your local parks and recreation department or use online resources like RecDesk or MyRec.com to find community centers near you.
Beach showers: Beach showers are usually located near public beaches or other outdoor recreational areas. They are designed to rinse off sand and saltwater, and may or may not have private stalls.
Park showers: Park showers are often found in public parks and recreation areas. They are typically outdoor showers that are available for public use, and may have separate changing areas. If you are truly desperate, many public parks also have hoses to rinse off boats or outdoor equipment.Some have water features (intended for kids) such as splash pads - but use good judgment.
Homeless shelter showers: Homeless shelters often have shower facilities available for their clients, as part of their services.
Many of these facilities charge a fee for their services, but some may offer free showers if you are a paying customer.
The advantages of using public showers include:
Convenience: Public showers are usually located in a central location, making it easy to find and use them.
Established options: Public showers have been around for a long time, with guaranteed availability at tried-and-true locations. For example, it’s well-known that Love’s, beaches and public pools all have showers, and that’s not going to change anytime soon.
Cleanliness: Public showers are typically cleaned and maintained regularly, so you can expect them to be relatively clean and hygienic. That said, your experience will totally vary, so just keep in mind it is a public shower.
Amenities: Some public showers offer amenities such as soap, shampoo, towels, and hairdryers, which can save you space and money.
However, there are also some downsides to using public showers, including:
Cost: Some public showers cost money (usually no more than $5) and others may require you to use their primary service. If you use public showers frequently, the cost can quickly add up and become expensive.
Availability: Public showers may not always be available when you need them, especially during peak seasons or when off the grid in rural areas. They’re more typically easier to find in relatively populated areas.
Crowds and privacy: Public showers can be busy and crowded, which can result in long wait times and limited privacy in some cases.
Tips for using public showers:
Plan ahead: Research the locations of public showers in the areas you plan to visit, and factor the cost and availability into your budget and itinerary.
Time your visits: Try to use public showers during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long wait times. If you go off-peak, odds are the shower will be cleaner.
Bring your own supplies: Not all public showers have supplies and even if the public shower offers amenities, it's always a good idea to bring your own soap, shampoo, and towels for added convenience and hygiene.
Solar Showers
Solar showers are a popular option for van dwellers who want a simple and affordable way to shower on the go. Solar showers are a type of portable shower that uses the sun's energy to heat water, making them a popular choice for vanlife. They typically consist of a bag or container made of a dark-colored material that absorbs heat from the sun, a showerhead, and a hose to connect the showerhead to the bag. The water in the bag is heated by the sun, which can take several hours depending on the weather and the size of the bag. Once the water is heated, the bag can be hung from a tree or other object and the showerhead can be used to enjoy a warm shower.
The advantages of using a solar shower include:
Portability: Solar showers are lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great option for vanlifers who want to conserve space and weight in their vehicles. They can be easily folded up and stored when not in use.
Low cost: Solar showers are an affordable option for vanlifers who want access to hot water on the road. They don't require any electricity or propane, so there are no ongoing costs once the shower is purchased.
Environmental friendliness: Solar showers use renewable energy from the sun, making them a more eco-friendly option than propane or electric showers.
Convenience: Solar showers can be used anywhere there is sunlight, which means vanlifers can enjoy a hot shower even when they are off the grid or away from campgrounds or other facilities.
However, there are also some downsides to using a solar shower, including:
Limited capacity: Most solar showers can only hold around five gallons of water, which may not be enough for a full shower.
Weather-dependent: Solar showers require direct sunlight to heat up the water, which means they may not work well on cloudy or rainy days.
Slow heating time: It can take several hours for the water to heat up in a solar shower, so you need to plan ahead and leave the bag in the sun for a while before showering.
Tips for using solar showers:
Fill the bag in advance: To save time and ensure that the water is warm enough, fill the solar shower bag the night before or early in the morning.
Choose a suitable location: Solar showers are best used in open, sunny areas where the bag can be left in direct sunlight. Many people will lay the bags out on their van to heat faster.
Use a low-flow showerhead: To conserve water and make the most of the limited capacity of the solar shower, use a low-flow showerhead or turn off the water while lathering.
Gym Memberships
If you enjoy exercising and staying active, a gym membership can be a great way to access showers when living in a van. Most gyms offer shower facilities to their members, and some even have 24/7 access.
There are several gym chains that are popular for vanlifers who need access to showers and other amenities on the road. Here are some of the most popular gym memberships for showering in vanlife but this is in no way an exhaustive list - just some examples to get you started in your research:
Planet Fitness: Planet Fitness has over 2,000 locations across the United States, making it a popular choice for vanlifers who need access to showers and other amenities on the road. Membership fees are typically low, and many locations offer 24/7 access and free wifi.
Anytime Fitness: Anytime Fitness is another popular gym chain that has over 4,000 locations worldwide. Many locations offer 24/7 access, free wifi, and shower facilities. Membership fees vary by location, but are generally affordable.
24 Hour Fitness: 24 Hour Fitness has over 400 locations in 13 states, primarily in the western United States. Membership fees are typically higher than other gym chains, but many locations offer 24/7 access and a wide range of amenities, including showers.
LA Fitness: LA Fitness has over 700 locations across the United States and Canada. Membership fees are typically higher than other gym chains, but many locations offer 24/7 access, free wifi, and shower facilities.
YMCA: The YMCA is a nonprofit organization with over 2,700 locations across the United States. Many locations offer affordable membership fees, 24/7 access, and shower facilities.
It's important to note that gym membership fees and amenities can vary widely by location, so it's a good idea to research and compare different options in the areas where you plan to travel. In addition to these popular gym chains, there may also be local gyms or recreation centers that offer affordable shower facilities for vanlifers. Your choice is highly dependent on the region you plan to be traveling in.
The advantages of using a gym for showers include:
Fitness benefits: With a gym membership, you can also use the fitness equipment and attend classes, which can help you stay healthy and active.
Convenience: Gyms are usually located in urban areas, making them easy to find and access.
Cleanliness: Gyms have strict hygiene protocols and clean their shower facilities regularly, so you can expect them to be relatively clean and hygienic.
However, there are also some downsides to using a gym for showers, including:
Cost: Gym memberships can be expensive, especially if you only use them for shower facilities.
Crowds: Gyms can be busy and crowded during peak hours, which can result in wait times and limited privacy.
Limited availability: If you travel to rural areas or remote locations, there may not be any gyms nearby.
Tips for using gym memberships:
Research your options: Compare the cost and benefits of different gym memberships in the areas you plan to visit, and choose the one that suits your budget and needs.
Time your visits: Try to use the gym during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and long wait times.
Respect the rules: Follow the gym's rules and etiquette, and clean up after yourself to maintain a good relationship with the staff and other members.
Campsite or RV Park Rentals
If you prefer a more traditional and comfortable showering experience, you can consider renting a campsite or RV park that offers shower facilities. These facilities are usually included in the rental fee and are often well-maintained and hygienic. Many campgrounds and RV parks have shower facilities that are available to guests. Some popular chains include KOA, Thousand Trails, and Good Sam. You can use online directories like Campendium or Hipcamp to find campgrounds and RV parks near you.
The advantages of using campsite or RV park showers include:
Comfort: Campsite or RV park showers are often spacious and equipped with amenities such as hot water, soap, and towels, which can provide a more comfortable and relaxing showering experience.
Availability: Campsites and RV parks are usually located in scenic areas and offer a wide range of amenities and activities, making them a popular choice for travelers.
Community: Campsites and RV parks are often social and welcoming environments, where you can meet other travelers and share experiences.
However, there are also some downsides to using campsite or RV park showers, including:
Cost: Renting a campsite or RV park can be expensive, especially if you stay for an extended period. Many campsites cost at least $20-30 a night, but can vary depending on the location.
Limited availability: During peak seasons or in popular destinations, campsite or RV park rentals may be fully booked, making it difficult to find a suitable location.
Limited privacy: Even though campsite or RV park showers are usually separated by curtains or walls, they can still be crowded and lack privacy.
Tips for using campsite or RV park showers:
Plan ahead: Research the availability and cost of campsite or RV park rentals in the areas you plan to visit, and factor them into your budget and itinerary.
Respect the rules: Follow the campsite or RV park rules and etiquette, and clean up after yourself to maintain a good relationship with the staff and other guests.
Bring your own supplies: Although some campsites and RV parks provide basic amenities such as soap and towels, it's always a good idea to bring your own supplies, such as shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, to ensure that you have everything you need.
Portable Showers
Another option for showering when living in a van is to use a portable shower. Portable showers come in various types and designs, from basic bucket showers to more advanced systems that use solar panels or propane heaters to heat the water.
Gravity-fed camping showers: Gravity-fed camping showers use gravity to create water pressure. They typically come with a water bag or tank that can be filled with water and hung from a tree or other object. The water flows through a hose and showerhead due to gravity.
Pump-powered camping showers: Pump-powered camping showers use a small electric pump to create water pressure. Some pump-powered camping showers can be charged via USB or car adapter. Some are also manually driven, and don’t require electricity. They typically come with a water bag or tank that can be filled with water and a hose and showerhead that are attached to the pump.
Propane-powered camping showers: Propane-powered camping showers use a propane tank to heat water. They typically come with a water tank, a propane burner, and a hose and showerhead. These showers provide hot water quickly, but require a propane tank and may be heavier than other types of camping showers.
Bucket camping showers: Bucket camping showers are a simple and typically low-tech option for camping showers. They typically involve filling a large bucket with water and using a smaller bucket or cup to pour water over yourself. These showers are not as convenient or efficient as other types of camping showers, but they are lightweight and easy to pack. Some higher tech bucket-camping options include electric showerheads that can simply feed a hose into a bucket to create a shower.
Overall, the type of camping shower you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include water capacity, water heating method, water pressure, and portability. It's important to research and compare different options to find the one that best meets your needs.
Mobile shower trailers: Beyond portable shower systems that you can purchase, some companies even offer mobile shower trailers that can be rented or used for a fee. These trailers typically have several shower stalls, and some even include amenities like towels, soap, and shampoo. Some popular companies include ShowerUp, Lava Mae, and Shower to the People.
The advantages of using a portable shower include:
Independence: With a portable shower, you can shower anywhere and anytime you want, without relying on public facilities.
Privacy: Using a portable shower gives you more privacy and control over your showering experience, as you can choose the location and set up your shower in a way that suits your needs.
Cost-effectiveness: Investing in a portable shower can save you money in the long run, as you don't have to pay for public showers or use extra gas to travel to them. Integration: Portable showers can easily be incorporated into a van build, or removed when necessary. Many people will ‘install’ portable showers on the back doors of their van for convenient use, and to save space on the core interior of the van.
However, there are also some downsides to using a portable shower, including:
Setup time: Depending on the shower model, setting up and taking down a portable shower can be time-consuming, especially if you have to fill the water tank or wait for it to heat up.
Water usage: Portable showers usually have a limited water supply depending on the version you’ve chosen, so you have to be mindful of your water usage and conserve it as much as possible.
Maintenance: Portable showers require some level of maintenance and cleaning to ensure they function properly and remain hygienic.
Tips for using a portable shower:
Choose the right type: Consider your budget, space, and water usage when selecting a portable shower. Bucket showers are the cheapest and simplest option, but they also have the lowest capacity and require manual filling and pouring. Electric showers are often more expensive but can be efficient and maintain solid water pressure, while propane showers can heat up the water more quickly but require a propane tank.
Plan your water usage: Before using a portable shower, calculate how much water you will need and try to conserve it as much as possible. Use a low-flow showerhead or turn off the water while lathering.
Design your portable shower with privacy in mind: Many people will combine a portable shower with a waterproof portable shower tent or utility tent. These tents are quite compact and can pop-up instantly to give you privacy in any location if you choose to shower outdoors.
Choose a suitable location: When using a portable shower, choose a location that is sheltered and private, and avoid areas with a high risk of contamination or environmental damage.
Full built-in shower
It’s definitely possible to build a full shower into a van and plenty of vanlifers do so - however, it is probably less common than other types of shower options just based on the space requirement. A full shower typically includes a shower pan or tray, a waterproof wall or enclosure, a showerhead, and a drainage system. This requires integration with your water system, larger fresh and gray water tanks and likely more electrical capacity for heating water. Building a full shower in a van can be a more complex and expensive project than other shower options, but it also has some advantages.
Advantages of building a full shower in a van:
Convenience: A full shower in a van provides the ultimate convenience, as vanlifers can take a shower whenever they want without leaving their vehicle or relying on outside facilities.
Comfort: A full shower allows vanlifers to enjoy a more comfortable and private shower experience, as they have more space to move around and can adjust the temperature and water pressure to their liking.
Increased resale value: A van with a built-in shower may have a higher resale value than a van without one, as it is a desirable feature for many potential buyers.
Disadvantages of building a full shower in a van:
Space limitations: Building a full shower in a van requires a significant amount of space, which can be a challenge in smaller vans or vans with limited floor space.
Cost: A full shower in a van can be expensive to build, as it requires specialized materials and more complex plumbing and electrical systems.
Maintenance: A full shower in a van requires regular maintenance to prevent leaks and mold growth, which can be a challenge for vanlifers who are constantly on the move.
Weight: A full shower adds significant weight to a van, which can impact gas mileage and overall performance.
Overall, building a full shower in a van is a personal choice that depends on individual preferences, budget, and van size. While it provides the ultimate convenience and comfort, it also comes with some disadvantages that should be considered before embarking on such a project.
Living in a van can be a rewarding and adventurous lifestyle, but it also requires some adjustments and creative solutions, such as finding ways to shower on the go. By considering the different options available, such as portable showers, gym memberships, campsite or RV park rentals, and solar showers, you can find a solution that suits your budget, lifestyle, and preferences. Whichever option you choose, make sure to plan ahead, conserve water, and respect the rules and etiquette of the places you visit. Happy showering!
Where can I find first-hand answers and experience related to showering while living in a van?
Reddit is a great start: