Travelling in a campervan offers a unique and adventurous way to explore the world. However, maintaining hygiene while on the road can be challenging. Keeping clean is essential for both comfort and health, and it becomes even more crucial when you're living out of a small, mobile space. This blog will guide you through various methods and tips to stay clean while travelling in a campervan. We'll explore water and waste management strategies, showering options, and how the right equipment, like portable tankless water heaters, can make a big difference.
Campervans in Europe
Campervans in Europe have become a popular choice for travel enthusiasts looking to explore the continent's diverse landscapes and rich history. European campervans range from compact vans perfect for solo travelers or couples to larger models designed for families or groups. These vehicles offer flexible living spaces with essential amenities such as beds, small kitchens, and toilets. Many European countries have well-established networks of campervan parks and campgrounds, making it easy to find a place to stay overnight. The freedom to move at your own pace and stay in scenic locations makes campervan travel a beloved option for many adventurers.
Challenges While Travelling in a Campervan
Before diving into the tips, it's important to understand the challenges that come with washing and staying clean in a Campervan:
- Limited Space: With the compact size of a Sprinter van, fitting a full-sized shower requires clever design and space management.
- Water Supply: Conserving water is vital when your supply is limited, making it necessary to use water efficiently.
- Drainage Solutions: Ensuring proper drainage in your shower area can be tricky, especially when parked in natural settings.
- Temperature Control: Heating water and maintaining a consistent, comfortable temperature demands careful energy and resource management.
- Staying Clean: Maintaining personal hygiene in a confined space requires thoughtful planning and organization. Without a dedicated shower area, ensuring you stay clean while managing water usage and maintaining cleanliness can be a significant challenge. Finding ways to stay clean while living in a van, especially when off-grid, is also one of the key aspects that van lifers must figure out. This is where portable shower solutions come into play.
Despite these challenges, maintaining hygiene in a campervan can be both manageable and enjoyable with the right preparation and tools. Portable tankless water heaters, such as those from Eccotemp, provide a practical and efficient solution for ensuring cleanliness and comfort while on the road.
Pre-Trip Campervan Hygiene Preparation
Before you hit the road, make sure your campervan is stocked with everything you need to stay clean and hygienic. Here’s a checklist of essential items and tips to help you stay prepared:
- Portable Camper Van Shower: A portable shower for camping is a must-have for washing up when you're away from traditional facilities. Look for a model that's easy to store and set up. The Eccotemp portable instantaneous water heaters are excellent choices as they are compact and efficient, providing hot water on demand.
- Hygiene Products: Stock up on items like soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. Opt for travel-sized products to save space.
- Water Containers: You'll need containers to store and manage your water supply. Consider collapsible containers for easy storage.
- Organizing Supplies: Use bins or organizers to keep hygiene products tidy and accessible. Designate a specific area in your campervan for these items to maintain order.
- Clean Zone: Create a designated "clean zone" in your campervan. This helps in keeping your living space hygienic and ensures that hygiene products are not scattered around.
Showering Options
When it comes to showering in a campervan, you have several options:
- Built-in Campervan Showers: Some campervans come with built-in showers, which are convenient but can be limited in terms of size and water capacity.
- Campground Facilities: Many campgrounds have shower facilities. These can be a good option if you’re staying in one location for a few days.
- Natural Water Sources: If you’re camping near a river or lake, you might consider using these for washing. Ensure the water is clean and safe before use.
- Staying Clean Between Showers: Use sponge baths or wet wipes to freshen up between showers. This helps maintain cleanliness without using excessive water.
- Portable Showers: Portable tankless water heaters like those from Eccotemp are ideal for a portable shower setup. These portable tankless water boilers provide instant hot water and are easy to set up. They are compact and efficient, there are also instantaneous water heaters from Eccotemp that offer higher flow rates for more demanding needs.
Portable Tankless Water Heaters Essential Role in Campervan Living
Portable tankless water heaters are a game-changer for van life and campervan living, offering a highly efficient solution for hot showers on the go. Unlike traditional tank heaters, which store and heat large amounts of water continuously, portable hot water heater models heat water on demand. This means they only use energy when you need hot water, significantly improving efficiency and reducing energy consumption. Their on-demand functionality makes them ideal for off-grid living and road trips, where conserving space and energy is crucial. With a portable tankless boiler, you can enjoy the convenience of hot showers without the bulk and inefficiency of a traditional tank.
Maximize Your Camper Van Shower Experience: Tips and Tricks
Enhance your campervan living experience with a portable outdoor shower. Here are some essential tips and tricks to make the most of your setup:
Tip #1: Selecting the Right Propane Tankless Water Heater
- Compact and Lightweight: Choose a propane instant hot water heater that’s easy to transport and store in your van.
- High Efficiency: Opt for a small portable water heater with high efficiency to ensure you get a consistent supply of hot water without consuming too much propane.
- Simple Controls: Opt for a propane instant hot water heater with user-friendly ignition and temperature controls for hassle-free operation.
Tip #2: Setting Up Your Shower Area
- Choose a Suitable Spot: Find a flat, stable area near your van that’s away from high-traffic zones and ensures good drainage.
- Privacy with a Shower Tent: Use a portable shower tent to create a private space for showering.
- Install a Shower Mat: Place a waterproof mat or tarp to keep the area clean and avoid tracking mud.
Tip #3: Managing Your Water Supply
- Enhance Wate Pressure: Consider having a portable water heater and pump Combo for consistent water pressure, especially in off-grid locations, use a portable water pump such as the Eccotemp EccoFlo. This pump effectively draws water from your reservoir and delivers it steadily through the showerhead, ensuring a reliable and enjoyable camping shower experience.
- Water-Saving Showerhead: Utilize a water-saving showerhead that has optimal water conservation and never waste a drop. The Eccotemp Ecco Spray set features an integrated on/off switch for better control.
- Monitor Temperature: Preheat your water to the desired temperature to minimize waste during your shower.
- Plan Shower Times: Take shorter showers and consider using a timer to conserve both water and propane.
Tip #4: Optimizing Propane Usage
- Check Propane Levels: Regularly monitor your propane levels and carry a spare tank for remote travel.
- Efficient Use: Ignite the propane tankless water heater only when needed and turn it off promptly to conserve propane.
Tip #5: Long-Term Maintenance
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse away soap residue and dry the area after each use to prevent buildup.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the showerhead, hose, and tankless geyser regularly. Regular maintenance is essential for your tankless geyser’s efficiency and longevity. It involves descaling to prevent mineral buildup, checking for leaks, and proper storage when not in use. Maintaining your small portable water heater and shower accessories ensures optimal performance and extends its lifespan.
- Dispose of Wastewater Properly: Direct wastewater away from the setup to avoid mess and puddles.
Tip #6: Ensuring Proper Ventilation
- Ventilate the Shower area: Open your shower tent windows or have an open roof shower area while setting up and using your portable camp shower to allow moisture to escape.
- Use a Fan: Improve airflow with a small fan to help the space dry faster.
Tip #7: Staying Organized
- Pack Efficiently: Store your water gas boiler, showerhead, and hose in a dedicated bag or container.
- Keep Essentials Accessible: Designate spots for toiletries, towels, and other shower essentials for quick access.
By following these tips and tricks, you can enjoy a comfortable and efficient shower experience while travelling in your campervan across Europe.
Water Management
Effective water management is essential when using a portable tankless hot water heater in your campervan. Here are some key tips to optimize your water usage:
- Conserve Water: Minimize water waste by turning off the shower while soaping or shampooing. Use a cup while brushing your teeth and a basin for washing dishes instead of running water continuously.
- Store Water Wisely: Utilize portable water containers, ensuring they are filled before you start your journey. Regularly monitor water levels and refill as needed to maintain a steady supply.
- Locate Water Sources: Plan your travel routes to include locations where you can refill your water supply. Many campgrounds and RV parks offer water stations, and various apps can help you find these refill points.
Managing Laundry on the Road
Keeping your clothes clean is essential for a comfortable trip. Here’s how to manage laundry effectively:
- Packing Smart: Choose quick-dry fabrics and pack light to make washing and drying clothes easier.
- Washing Options: When travelling in a campervan, you have various laundry options to keep your clothes fresh. Laundromats are a convenient choice when available, but you can also hand-wash garments using a portable washing machine or a simple bucket. Hot water is particularly effective for deep cleaning everyday fabrics and eliminating bacteria and germs. However, only use hot or lukewarm water on fabrics specifically labeled as safe for such temperatures, like cotton. Always check manufacturer instructions before washing. Additionally, the Eccotemp CE-L10 models and EL10 models' higher flow rate can greatly assist with these cleaning tasks, enhancing efficiency and ease.
- Drying Clothes: To dry clothes in your campervan, hang them up or use a portable drying rack. It's essential to ensure proper ventilation to avoid musty odors, particularly in humid environments. Good airflow helps clothes dry more efficiently and prevents the buildup of unpleasant smells. Consider using a small fan or opening windows to enhance ventilation and keep your campervan fresh and dry.
Personal Hygiene Tips
Maintaining personal hygiene involves more than just showering. Here are some additional tips:
- Dental Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly. Use a small water container or portable sink for rinsing.
- Hand and Face Cleanliness: Keep hand sanitizers and facial wipes handy for cleaning hands and face when you don’t have access to a sink.
Keeping Your Campervan Clean
Maintaining a clean living space is crucial for overall hygiene and comfort in your campervan. Here’s how to keep your campervan tidy and organized:
- Daily Cleaning Routines: Implement a regular cleaning schedule by sweeping and wiping down surfaces each day. This practice helps keep dirt, crumbs, and spills under control, ensuring a fresh and pleasant environment.
- Managing Dirt and Sand: Minimize the amount of dirt and sand that enters your campervan by placing doormats at the entrance and encouraging everyone to remove their shoes before stepping inside. This simple step can significantly reduce the accumulation of debris inside your living space.
- Effective Storage Solutions: Organize your cleaning supplies in designated storage areas to ensure they are easily accessible. Keep cleaning products and tools neatly stored so you can quickly address any messes or spills. Proper organization makes routine maintenance more efficient and helps maintain a consistently clean and orderly campervan.
Handling Waste and Trash
Effective waste management is essential for maintaining hygiene and preventing unpleasant odors in your campervan. Here’s how to manage waste and trash efficiently:
- Waste Disposal: Follow campground or park regulations for disposing of gray water and other waste. Properly dispose of these materials to avoid environmental contamination and ensure compliance with local guidelines.
- Minimizing Trash: To reduce the amount of waste you generate, prioritize packing reusable items such as water bottles, utensils, and containers. Avoid single-use plastics wherever possible to cut down on trash and lessen your environmental footprint.
- Managing Trash and Recycling: Keep designated trash and recycling bins in your campervan to separate and manage waste effectively. Regularly empty these bins to prevent odors and maintain a clean living space. By staying organized and disposing of waste promptly, you can ensure a more hygienic and pleasant environment throughout your travels.
Dealing with Unique Challenges
Travelling in different environments can present unique hygiene challenges. Here’s how to address these issues effectively while utilizing the Eccotemp portable tankless water heater:
Hygiene in Diverse Environments:
- Deserts: In arid conditions, controlling dust is crucial. Use dust covers for your gear and minimize water use. The Eccotemp portable tankless hot water heater, provides hot water on demand without the need for large water storage, helping you efficiently manage limited water supplies.
- Forests: When camping in wooded areas, be cautious of wildlife and maintain a clean campsite. Dispose of waste properly and use the camping shower to provide hot water for personal hygiene, ensuring that you stay fresh and clean amid wildlife.
- Beaches: After a day at the shore, rinse off sand and saltwater thoroughly. The Eccotemp portable instant hot water heater is ideal for beach settings, offering a portable solution to enjoy a refreshing hot shower to remove salt and sand effectively.
Extended Periods Without Facilities:
- For longer stays in remote areas, plan by stocking extra supplies and considering portable hot water systems like the Eccotemp outdoor portable water heater models. These small portable water heaters offer a convenient way to have access to hot water for showers and cleaning, enhancing your comfort and hygiene even when traditional facilities are unavailable.
Hot or Humid Conditions:
- In hot or humid climates, stay hydrated and use cooling methods such as portable fans. The Eccotemp tankless geyser also helps maintain cleanliness, reducing discomfort by providing a reliable source of hot water for camper van showers and washing, which is essential for staying fresh and comfortable.
By incorporating these strategies and utilizing the portable water heaters, you can effectively manage hygiene challenges and ensure a pleasant experience in various environments.
FAQs
Question: How do I choose the best tankless water heater for my campervan?
Answer: When selecting the best tankless water heater for your campervan, consider factors like flow rate, fuel type, and size to match your specific needs. The Eccotemp CEL5, EL5, and EL7 models are excellent choices for compact setups, providing efficient performance in smaller spaces. For those requiring more power, the Eccotemp CEL10 and EL10 models are ideal, offering higher flow rates and greater heating capacity. These models ensure you have a reliable source of hot water for showers and daily needs, enhancing your van life experience in Europe. Please also take note of the correct MBar aligned with your region when using a portable tankless geyser. You can check more details about the Correct MBAR for Your Country.
Question: What is the portable tankless water heater price for a campervan?
Answer: The tankless water heater price varies based on features and capacity. Eccotemp models typically range from around €180.29 for smaller units like the CEL5 to approximately €301.29 for advanced options like the EL10, excluding the accessories. Investing in a high-quality portable instant hot water heater is a smart choice for anyone serious about campervan living, as it provides convenience and efficiency.
Question: How do I install an outdoor portable water heater in my campervan?
Answer: To install an outdoor portable water heater, begin by connecting it to a propane source and a water supply. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup, ensuring all connections are secure. Proper installation is crucial for safe and efficient operation, allowing you to enjoy hot water with ease.
Conclusion
Staying clean when travelling in a campervan doesn't have to be a challenge. With the right equipment, like the portable shower for camping or camper van shower from Eccotemp, you can enjoy a hot, refreshing shower no matter where your travels take you. Investing in essential campervan gears, setting up a portable shower system, managing your water and propane usage, managing your waste properly, and thoroughly planning before traveling, you'll be well on your way to a comfortable and enjoyable van life experience. Whether you're a seasoned campervan lifer or just starting, these tips and tricks will help you make the most of your time on the road.
So, gear up, hit the road, and enjoy the freedom of campervan living with the comfort of hot water wherever you go!