Where to Shower When Camping in the UK

Aug 23rd 2024 by Eccotemp Europe

Camping in the UK offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the countryside. However, one of the challenges that campers often face is finding a suitable way to stay clean and refreshed while on the road. Fortunately, there are several showering options available for campers in the UK, each with its own set of benefits and considerations. In this blog, we will explore where you can shower while camping in the UK, focusing on the benefits and use of portable tankless water heaters like the Eccotemp CEL5 and CE-L10. We will also discuss essential accessories to enhance your camping shower experience. Discover how to enhance your outdoor experience with the perfect solution for keeping clean and comfortable in the great outdoors.

Camping Showers in the UK

Camping showers in the UK come in various forms, from simple portable shower bags to more advanced tankless hot water heaters. The climate and diverse terrains of the UK mean that campers often need solutions that are versatile and reliable. While traditional camping showers might involve heating water over a campfire or using cold water from a lake, modern options like portable tankless water heaters offer convenience and comfort.

These portable showers are designed to provide hot water on demand, making them perfect for campers who want to enjoy a warm shower after a long day of hiking or exploring. Whether you're looking for a compact solution for a weekend getaway or a more robust setup for extended stays, there are options to suit every need. These portable showers come with various power options, including solar, electricity, or propane. Portable propane tankless water heaters, in particular, are favored for their instant hot water capability, offering unmatched convenience and reliability for camping trips.

Where to Shower When Camping in the UK?

Finding a good place to shower while camping in the UK can enhance your outdoor experience, ensuring you stay clean and comfortable during your adventure. Here are some top options for where to shower when camping:

Campsite Facilities: Many UK campsites offer shower facilities with hot water. Check your campsite’s amenities before booking to ensure they meet your needs.
Public Showers: Some public beaches or parks have shower facilities available. They can be a convenient option if you're camping nearby.
Camping Pods or Glamping Sites: Consider staying in camping pods or glamping sites that often come with their own private shower facilities.
Local Leisure Centres: Some local leisure centres or gyms offer day passes that include shower facilities, providing a convenient option for a warm shower.
Portable Showers: Invest in a portable shower, which can be powered by a portable propane instant hot water heater. These tankless water heaters provide instant hot water and are perfect for off-grid locations.

These options ensure you stay clean and comfortable while enjoying your camping experience in the UK.

How Do Portable Showers for Camping Work?

Portable camping showers are designed to be easy to set up and use in a variety of outdoor settings. Here’s a basic overview of how they work:

Water Source: Portable showers need a water source. This could be a garden hose, a water container, or a natural source such as a stream or river.
Heating Mechanism: Depending on the type of shower, the heating mechanism might involve solar energy, electricity, or propane. Portable propane instant hot water heater, like the Eccotemp CEL5 and CE-L10 is powered by 2 “D” cell batteries and run on a standard 20 lb. liquid propane tank to heat water instantly.
Pump System: The Eccotemp EccoFlo, for example, is a portable compact water pump that provides consistent water pressure, even in off-grid locations. It helps draw water from the reservoir and pushes it through the showerhead.
Showerhead: The water is delivered through a showerhead, which can be mounted on a stand, hung from a tree, or held by hand. Some portable showers offer adjustable spray settings, allowing you to choose a light mist or a powerful spray, depending on your preference.
Setup and Use: To set up a portable shower, you generally need to connect the water source, turn on the heating system (if applicable), and position the showerhead. The setup is quick and easy, allowing you to enjoy a warm shower in just a few minutes.

The CEL5 and CE-L10 Portable Tankless Water Heaters

Eccotemp CEL5 Portable Tankless Water Heater

The Eccotemp CEL5 is a lightweight and compact portable tankless water heater that is perfect for camping. It runs on propane and can deliver up to 6 liters of hot water per minute, making it ideal for small groups or solo campers. The CEL5 is battery-powered (using 2 "D" cell batteries), so it doesn’t require electricity, which makes it perfect for off-grid camping. It’s easy to set up and provides instant hot water, ensuring you can enjoy a comfortable shower wherever you are.

Eccotemp CE-L10 Portable Tankless Water Heater

For campers who need a more powerful solution, the Eccotemp CE-L10 is an excellent choice. It offers a higher flow rate of 10 liters per minute and can provide hot water for larger groups or more extended use. Like the CEL5, it runs on propane and is battery-operated, making it highly portable and convenient. The CE-L10 is designed for those who want the convenience of a hot shower without compromising on water flow or heating capacity.

Both the CEL5 and CE-L10 are outdoor portable water heaters that are designed to be durable, reliable, and easy to use, making them perfect for any camping adventure in the UK.

Key Features of Portable Tankless Water Heaters

Portable tankless water heaters like the Eccotemp CEL5 and CE-L10 come with a range of features that make them ideal for camping:

Instant Hot Water: These tankless water boilers provide instant hot water on demand, so you don’t have to wait for a tank to heat up. This is especially useful in cold weather or when you need a quick rinse after a long day.
Portable and Lightweight: These small portable water heaters are designed to be portable, with compact designs that make them easy to carry and set up. Their lightweight nature means they won’t add unnecessary bulk to your camping gear.
Propane-Powered: These outdoor portable water heaters use propane, which is easy to find and perfect for camping in remote areas. Propane provides a reliable and efficient fuel source, ensuring that you can enjoy hot water even when off the grid.
Battery Operation: The CEL5 and CE-L10 are powered by 2 "D" cell batteries, meaning they don’t require electricity to operate. This makes them ideal for use in areas where power outlets aren’t available.
Adjustable Temperature Control: You can easily adjust the water temperature to suit your preferences, ensuring a comfortable shower experience every time.
High Flow Rate: With flow rates of 6 liters per minute (CEL5) and 10 liters per minute (CE-L10), these instant hot water heaters provide a strong, consistent water flow, making them suitable for a variety of camping situations.
Easy Setup: Quick and straightforward installation with minimal setup time.
Durability: Built to withstand outdoor conditions, these instant hot water heaters are durable and reliable, ensuring you have hot water even in rugged environments.

Benefits and Advantages of Outdoor Showers When Camping

Taking a shower while camping offers several benefits that can significantly enhance your outdoor experience:

Comfort and Relaxation: After a long day of hiking, exploring, or simply enjoying the outdoors, a warm shower can be incredibly refreshing. It helps to relax your muscles and wash away dirt and sweat, leaving you feeling rejuvenated.
Hygiene: Maintaining hygiene while camping is important for your health and well-being. A camping shower allows you to stay clean, which is especially important if you’re camping for an extended period.
Versatility: Portable tankless water heaters are not just for showers. They can also be used for washing dishes, cleaning gear, or even providing hot water for cooking preparations.
Privacy: By incorporating a pop-up shower tent into your camping gear, you can enjoy a private and comfortable showering experience no matter your location. This setup is especially valuable at crowded campsites, providing much-needed privacy, and is equally beneficial when wild camping in remote, isolated areas where privacy is a priority.
Flexibility: Portable camping showers can be set up anywhere, giving you the freedom to choose your ideal camping spot.
Customizable Experience: With adjustable temperature settings, you can tailor your shower to your preferences, making it a comfortable shower experience.
Enhanced Camping Experience: The convenience of a portable shower with hot water can elevate your entire camping experience, making it feel more like home and less like roughing it.
Energy Efficiency: Portable tankless water heaters like the CEL5 and CE-L10 are energy-efficient, as they only heat water when it’s needed.
Environmental Friendliness: By using a portable hot water heater, you can minimize your impact on the environment. These systems allow you to use only the water you need and avoid the waste associated with communal facilities.

Applications

Portable tankless water heaters are versatile and can be used in various camping scenarios:

Camping Trips: Whether you’re camping in a remote location or at a campsite with limited facilities, a portable tankless water heater ensures you have access to hot water.
Wild Camping: When wild camping in the UK, amenities are often non-existent. A portable tankless water heater like the CEL5 or CE-L10 allows you to enjoy a hot shower in the wilderness, making your experience more comfortable.
Overlanding: For extended overlanding trips, these portable tankless water boilers provide a reliable source of hot water, making it easier to maintain hygiene on the go.
Caravan and RV Travel: If you’re traveling in a caravan or RV, a portable water heater can supplement your existing hot water system, providing extra comfort.
Hiking and Backpacking: For multi-day hikes or backpacking trips, a small portable water heater and pump combo can make a significant difference. After a long day on the trails, being able to shower and refresh can help you feel ready for the next day’s adventure. Lightweight models like the CEL5 are perfect for backpackers who need to minimize their gear while still enjoying hot showers.
Family Camping Trips and Group Camping: On family camping trips, having a reliable hot water source is essential, especially if you have children. The CEL5 and CE-L10 can provide enough hot water for everyone, making camping with the family more enjoyable. For larger groups, the CE-L10 offers a higher capacity, making it suitable for providing hot water to multiple people.
Long-Duration Camping: For extended camping trips, where access to shower facilities may be limited, a portable tankless water boiler ensures you can maintain hygiene and comfort throughout your stay.
Pet Bathing: For fur parent campers, a portable tankless water heater is a must-have. It provides instant hot water, making it easy to give your dog a warm bath outdoors. This ensures you can quickly rinse off dirt and mud, keeping your pet clean and comfortable throughout your camping adventure.
Outdoor Adventures: For those who prefer wild camping, these portable tankless hot water heaters ensure you have access to hot water even in remote locations.
Fishing and Hunting Trips: They are great for providing hot water in remote areas where traditional facilities are not available.
Beach Camping: After a day at the beach, a portable shower is perfect for rinsing off saltwater and sand. The Eccotemp portable tankless hot water heater can provide a warm, soothing shower right by the shore.
Festival Camping: Portable tankless water boilers are ideal for camping at festivals, providing on-demand hot water for showers, dishwashing, and more. They enhance comfort during colder festival nights by ensuring you can enjoy a warm shower, helping you stay clean and refreshed, and making the festival experience more enjoyable and comfortable.

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Shower Accessories List for Campers

To enhance your camping shower experience, consider these essential accessories:

Pop-Up Portable Shower Tent - Eccotemp Ecco Tent

The Eccotemp Ecco Tent is a portable shower tent designed for privacy and convenience. It’s easy to set up and provides a sheltered space for showering, changing clothes, or even using it as a portable toilet area. The tent is lightweight and durable. It also features three dual-sided zippered windows for ventilation. It’s a great addition to any camping setup, offering a clean and private environment for your showers.

Are Shower Tents Worth It?

Absolutely! Shower tents are worth it because they provide privacy, protect you from the elements, and help contain water, keeping your campsite dry and tidy. They’re especially useful in public or busy camping areas where privacy can be a concern. The Ecco Tent is not only practical but also enhances your overall camping experience by giving you a dedicated space for hygiene.

Eccotemp EccoFlo Pump

For those camping in low-pressure areas or using a natural water source, the Eccotemp EccoFlo Diaphragm 12V Pump & Strainer is a must-have. This pump boosts water pressure, ensuring a consistent and strong flow for your shower, making your experience as pleasant as possible.

Ecco Spray Shower Set with Magnetic Mount

The Ecco Spray Shower Set is crafted to deliver a comfortable and convenient shower experience while camping. It features a versatile showerhead with multiple spray settings, a long hose for enhanced flexibility, and a magnetic mount that easily secures the showerhead at your desired height. This hands-free setup ensures an effortless shower experience. Adding this set to your portable shower system elevates your camping comfort, bringing a touch of luxury to your outdoor adventures.

These accessories complement your portable tankless water heater, making your camping showers more enjoyable and practical.

FAQs

Question: What can I use instead of a shower when camping?
Answer: When camping, a portable tankless water heater is an excellent alternative to a traditional shower. It provides instant hot water on demand, allowing you to enjoy a warm, refreshing shower anywhere, even in remote locations. Compact and easy to set up, these portable instant hot water heaters run on propane and are perfect for off-grid use, making them an ideal solution for staying clean while camping.

Question: How do you use a portable shower for camping?
Answer: To use a portable shower for camping with a tankless water heater, connect the tankless water boiler to a propane tank and a water source, like a garden hose or water container. The tankless water boiler instantly warms the water as it flows through. Attach the showerhead, adjust the temperature, and enjoy a warm, refreshing shower anywhere outdoors.

Question: What fuel do portable tankless water heaters use?
Answer: Most portable instant hot water heaters use propane. Some models might also offer electric options, but propane is common for camping due to its portability and efficiency.

Question: Are shower tents worth it?
Answer: Yes, shower tents are worth it. They provide privacy, protection from the elements, and a convenient space for bathing or changing clothes while camping, making outdoor experiences more comfortable and enjoyable.

Question: Can I use a portable tankless water heater for other purposes?
Answer: Yes, these heaters are versatile and can be used for various tasks beyond showering. They’re great for washing dishes, cleaning camping gear, and a lot more.

Conclusion

Camping in the UK is a fantastic way to experience the country’s natural beauty, but it doesn’t mean you have to forgo the comforts of home. A portable camping shower, especially one paired with a portable tankless water heater like the Eccotemp CEL5 or CE-L10, can make your outdoor adventures much more enjoyable. These small, efficient devices provide instant hot water, ensuring you can stay clean, comfortable, and refreshed no matter where your travels take you.

With the right setup, including essential accessories like a pop-up shower tent, EccoFlo Pump and Strainer, and Ecco Spray Shower Set, you can transform your camping experience into one that rivals the comforts of home. So next time you’re planning a camping trip in the UK, make sure to pack your portable tankless water heater and enjoy the luxury of a warm shower in the great outdoors. Happy camping!