There’s perhaps one aspect of campervan life that puts more people off than any other: the lack of a shower. If you’re someone who enjoys starting or ending every day with a good scrub, this can feel like a significant hurdle.
But it doesn’t have to be.
While showers are often associated with RVs, they can also be installed in campervans. However, just because you can install a shower doesn’t mean you should. The decision to add a shower depends on many factors, including space, budget, and your lifestyle needs.
Let’s explore the two main options—internal (permanent) and external (portable) showers—and break down the pros, cons, and considerations to help you decide.
Internal campervan showers: pros, cons and options
An internal campervan shower can bring the comforts of home to the open road. But with those comforts come some compromises. Let’s break it down.
Pros
Cleanliness: Stay fresh no matter where you are. With an internal shower, you’ll never have to rely on campground facilities or skip a wash when you're off the grid.
Luxury: Internal showers make your campervan feel more like home and significantly increase resale value. It’s a rare addition that makes a statement at the campground.
Convenience: Having a shower on board means you can wash up anytime, anywhere—no need to schedule stops for a public shower.
Privacy: Internal showers provide unmatched privacy compared to external showers or public facilities.
Cons
Space Constraints: Internal showers require a dedicated area. At minimum, you'll need about eight square feet of space, which could mean sacrificing storage, kitchen space, or even bed length.
Cost: High-end systems can cost thousands of dollars, especially if you include waterproofing, plumbing, and ventilation.
Humidity and Dampness: Without proper waterproofing, moisture can damage your campervan’s interior, leading to mold or rot. This can be mitigated with a fully enclosed, ventilated shower setup, but it adds complexity and expense.
Maintenance: Filling water tanks, draining wastewater, and cleaning the shower area can feel like a chore after long days on the road.
Options
If you’re sold on the idea of an internal shower, here are the main types to consider:
Fully Enclosed Showers:These mimic a home bathroom, offering the most luxurious experience. Fully enclosed showers are waterproofed and ventilated, often paired with a toilet in a wet room design.
Pros: Minimal moisture issues, premium feel, highly functional.
Cons: Expensive, requires significant space, and adds weight to your van.
Retractable Showers:Retractable showers feature a drain in the floor and a curtain or screen that can be pulled into place for showering, then neatly stowed away.
Pros: Saves space when not in use, more affordable than fully enclosed options.
Cons: Moisture may escape into the van, requiring excellent ventilation and drainage systems.
External campervan showers: pros, cons and options
External showers are more common among van lifers, offering flexibility and affordability. Let’s dive into the benefits and trade-offs.
Pros
Cost-Effective: External showers don’t require installation, plumbing, or extensive waterproofing, making them much cheaper.
Space-Saving: Since external showers mount outside the van or are portable, they free up precious interior space.
No Interior Damage: There’s no risk of water or steam damaging your van’s interior.
Flexibility: Portable showers can be used not only for personal hygiene but also for washing gear, cleaning dishes, or rinsing off muddy boots.
Cons
Privacy: Even with a shower tent or screen, external showers can feel exposed compared to their internal counterparts.
Weather Dependency: While refreshing on sunny days, external showers can be miserable in rain or cold weather, making them less appealing in certain climates.
Setup Time: External showers often require setting up and packing away, which can feel tedious if you’re using them frequently.
Options
Here are the three main types of external showers and what they offer:
Solar Showers:These harness the power of the sun to heat water. Some models use solar panels, while others feature black bags or pouches that absorb sunlight.
Pros: Affordable, environmentally friendly, no fuel or electricity required.
Cons: Dependent on sunny weather; water might not get hot enough on cloudy days.
12V/USB Showers:These connect to your van’s power system and pump water through a showerhead. Some advanced models even heat the water.
Pros: Lightweight, compact, and easy to set up.
Cons: Limited water pressure and heating capability; relies on your van’s power system.
Portable Hot Water Systems:These top-of-the-line external showers use a combination of 12V power and gas or other fuels to provide hot water with good pressure.
Pros: High-performance, reliable, and capable of handling multiple showers in one session.
Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires fuel and regular maintenance.
Should You Get a Shower for Your Campervan?
Whether you choose an internal or external shower—or skip a shower entirely—depends on your van life priorities:
If you value comfort, privacy, and convenience, an internal shower might be worth the investment, as long as you’re prepared to sacrifice space and budget for the luxury.
If you’re more focused on saving space and money, and you don’t mind occasional exposure to the elements, an external shower is a flexible and cost-effective choice.
Final Thoughts: Your Campervan, Your Rules
Adding a shower is one of the biggest decisions for van lifers designing their dream campervan. While it’s not essential for everyone, the right shower setup can make life on the road more comfortable and convenient.
Whether you want a fully enclosed shower, a solar shower, or no shower at all, our team at Drifter Vans can help design a campervan that perfectly suits your needs. Contact us today to start building the ultimate van life experience!
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