Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time van lifer, having a shower in your campervan can transform your travel experience. Imagine starting your day with a refreshing shower after a night of boondocking or rinsing off the day’s adventures before settling in for the evening.
A campervan shower brings the comforts of home on the road, offering convenience, privacy, and an added level of cleanliness.
Installing a shower in your campervan can be a great addition, providing convenience and comfort during your travels. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros
- Convenience: Having a shower in your campervan means you don’t have to rely on public facilities, which can be especially useful in remote areas.
- Privacy: Enjoy the privacy of your own space without having to use shared or public showers.
- Comfort: A shower can make long trips more comfortable, especially after outdoor activities like hiking or swimming.
- Increased Resale Value: A campervan with a shower can be more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell it.
Cons
- Space: Showers take up valuable space in a campervan, which could be used for other purposes.
- Water Supply: You’ll need a sufficient water supply and a way to heat the water, which can be challenging and add extra weight.
- Cost: Installing a shower can be expensive, considering the plumbing, water tanks, and potential modifications to the campervan.
- Maintenance: Showers require regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent mould and mildew.
Alternatives
- Portable Showers: Consider a portable shower system, which can be used outside the campervan and doesn’t require permanent installation.
- Gym Memberships: Use showers along your route at gyms or recreational centres.
- Campsites: Many campsites have shower facilities, so plan your stops accordingly.
Ultimately, whether to install a shower depends on your travel style, budget, and the space available in your campervan. It can be a worthwhile addition if you value convenience and privacy and are willing to invest in the installation.
What are my options for a campervan shower?
There are several shower options for a campervan, each with benefits and drawbacks. Here are some popular choices:
1. Built-in indoor shower
Pros:
- Convenience: Always available inside the van.
- Privacy: No need to shower outside or in public facilities.
- Comfort: This can include features like hot water and a controlled environment.
Cons:
- Space: Takes up valuable living space inside the van.
- Cost: More expensive to install, including plumbing, water heating, and waterproofing.
- Complexity: Requires significant modifications to the van.
View our customisable shower tray
2. Portable camping shower
Pros:
- Portability: Can be used inside or outside the van.
- Cost-effective: Generally cheaper than installing a built-in shower.
- Easy setup: Simple to use and store when not in use.
Cons:
- Water supply: Limited by the size of the water container.
- Comfort: May not provide hot water unless heated separately.
- Privacy: Requires an additional shower tent or privacy screen when used outside.
3. Solar Shower bag
Pros:
- Eco-friendly: Uses solar energy to heat the water.
- Cost-effective: Inexpensive and easy to use.
- Portability: Easy to store and use outside.
Cons:
- Weather dependent: Requires sunny conditions to heat the water.
- Water supply: Limited by the capacity of the bag.
- Comfort: Usually not as comfortable or convenient as other options.
4. Pressurised Shower (Road Shower)
Pros:
- Pressurised Water: Provides a better shower experience with pressurised water.
- Solar heating: Can heat water using solar energy.
- Mounted option: Can be mounted on the roof or side of the van.
Cons:
- Cost: More expensive than basic portable options.
- Installation: Requires secure mounting and possibly plumbing modifications.
- Size: Takes up external space on the van.
5. Portable electric shower
Pros:
Convenience: Provides an electric pump for better water pressure.
Ease of use: Simple setup and operation.
Portability: Can be used inside or outside the van.
Cons:
- Power source: Requires a battery or power supply to operate.
- Water supply: Limited by the size of the water container.
- Cost: More expensive than non-electric portable options.
6. Shower Tent
Pros:
- Privacy: Provides a private space for showering outside the van.
- Flexibility: This can be used with various portable shower systems.
- Cost-effective: Inexpensive solution for outdoor showers.
Cons:
- Setup: Requires additional setup and takedown time.
- Space: Takes up space when stored in the van.
- Weather dependent: Less comfortable in bad weather.
Considerations
When choosing a shower option for your campervan, consider the following factors:
- Space available: How much room do you have for a shower setup?
- Water supply: How will you store and heat water for the shower?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on the shower system?
- Usage frequency: How often will you need to shower in the van?
- Installation complexity: Are you comfortable with DIY installations, or will you need professional help?
Selecting the right shower option will depend on your specific needs and how you plan to use your campervan.
Installing a shower in a campervan is a complex project that involves plumbing, electrical work, and possibly structural modifications. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Materials and tools needed
- Shower tray or basin
- Waterproof walls (e.g., FRP panels)
- Shower faucet and head
- Water pump and plumbing (pipes, fittings, etc.)
- Water tanks (freshwater and graywater)
- Water heater (optional for hot showers)
- Waterproof sealant
- Shower curtain or door
- Ventilation fan (optional)
- Power supply (for the pump and heater)
- Drill, saw, and other basic tools
- Measuring tape and level
How to install a shower tray
Planning and design
- Layout: Decide on the location of the shower. Ensure it’s near the water tanks and power source.
- Space: Measure the available space and choose a shower tray and walls that fit.
- Ventilation: Plan for ventilation to prevent mould and mildew.
Water supply and drainage
- Freshwater tank: Install a freshwater tank. Ensure it’s secured and has a fill port.
- Greywater tank: Install a greywater tank for shower drainage. Ensure it’s easy to empty.
- Water pump: Install a water pump to provide water pressure. Connect it to the freshwater tank.
Installing the shower base
- Position the tray: Place the shower tray in the desired location.
- Secure the tray: Use brackets or adhesive to secure the tray to the floor.
- Connect the drain: Connect the shower tray drain to the greywater tank using the appropriate plumbing fittings.
Installing shower walls
- Measure and cut: Measure and cut the waterproof wall panels to fit the shower area.
- Attach panels: Attach the panels to the walls using adhesive or screws.
- Seal joints: Use a waterproof sealant to seal all joints and edges to prevent leaks.
Plumbing the shower
- Install Faucet: Install the shower faucet and connect it to the water lines.
- Run pipes: Run pipes from the water pump to the shower faucet. Use PEX or flexible plumbing lines.
- Hot water (optional): If using a water heater, install it and connect it to the water lines.
Electrical connections
- Power supply: Connect the water pump and heater to the campervan’s power supply. Ensure the power supply can handle the load.
- Switches and controls: Install switches for the pump and heater, if necessary.
Finishing touches
- Shower head: Install the shower head and connect it to the faucet.
- Curtain or door: Install a shower curtain or door for privacy.
- Ventilation: Install a ventilation fan if needed to reduce moisture build-up.
- Test: Test the entire system for leaks and proper operation.
Tips
- Quality materials: Use high-quality materials to ensure durability and prevent leaks.
- Professional help: If you aren’t comfortable with plumbing or electrical work, consider hiring a professional.
- Waterproofing: Ensure all seams and joints are sealed to prevent water damage.
- Maintenance: Regularly check for leaks and maintain the system to ensure longevity.
Following these steps and planning carefully, you can install a functional and reliable shower in your campervan, enhancing your travel comfort and convenience.
View our customisable shower tray
Should I install a campervan shower myself or hire a professional?
Deciding whether to install a shower in your campervan yourself or hire a professional depends on several factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision:
DIY Installation
Pros
- Cost savings: Doing it yourself can save you a significant amount of money on labour costs.
- Customisation: You have complete control over the design and can customize it to fit your specific needs and preferences.
- Skill development: You’ll gain valuable skills and knowledge about your campervan’s systems.
Cons
- Skill and knowledge required: Plumbing, electrical work, and waterproofing require specific skills. Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to fix.
- Time-consuming: DIY projects can take a lot of time, especially if you are learning as you go.
- Potential for errors: Improper installation can lead to leaks, water damage, and other issues that could be expensive to repair.
When to DIY
- You have experience with plumbing, electrical work, and DIY projects.
- You have the time to dedicate to the project.
- You are comfortable troubleshooting and solving potential problems.
- You have access to the necessary tools and materials.
Professional installation
Pros
- Expertise: Professionals have the skills and experience to do the job correctly and efficiently.
- Quality assurance: A professional installation is likely to be done right the first time, reducing the risk of leaks and other issues.
- Warranty and support: Many professionals offer warranties on their work, providing peace of mind.
- Time-saving: Hiring a professional can save you a significant amount of time.
Cons
- Cost: Hiring a professional can be expensive, as you are paying for labour and expertise.
- Less Customisation: While professionals can work to your specifications, you might have less hands-on control over the design and installation process.
When to hire a professional
- You lack experience with plumbing, electrical work, or campervan modifications.
- You prefer to save time and avoid potential mistakes.
- You want the peace of mind that comes with a professional job and warranty.
- You have the budget to cover the costs of professional installation.
If you’re still unsure, consider starting with a smaller DIY project to gauge your comfort level and skills. You can also consult with us to get quotes and opinions before making a final decision.
