Best Solar Shower In 2024: Top-Rated Reviews

After spending the day out in the great outdoors, taking a refreshing shower sounds like a dream come true. But it doesn’t have to remain only a dream. We’ve reviewed the best solar showers on the market and ranked them in order of our favorites to help you find the best one for you. Impressively, using a solar shower won’t add a single pound of emissions to your carbon footprint, either. (1)

Solar Shower Reviews

There’s nothing better than taking a hot, steamy shower outdoors, and solar showers make it effortless. Sunlight heats the water stored inside in just a few hours, allowing you to let your shower warm up while you have fun in the sun. Let’s delve into our solar shower reviews and take a closer look at our top products.

Chlorine buildup can ravage your hair and dry out your skin, so installing a solar shower near your pool is a great way to enjoy your daily dip without causing any issues. This sleek, stylish solar shower from Tidyard comes with a showerhead and a faucet that controls water pressure and temperature. With its 9.25 gallon capacity, you won’t need to refill it very often to take a refreshing shower right out of the pool.

This solar shower connects effortlessly to your garden hose, making the refilling process quick and easy. It attaches to any flat, solid surface with four included mounting screws, making it a sturdy, hands-off option for use in any garden or outside your pool.

Made from UV-resistant PVC, this solar shower won’t tarnish or discolor in the sun. Sunlight heats the water to a steamy 140 degrees Fahrenheit, just one more reason this energy-efficient and eco-friendly option is our pick for the best overall solar shower.

If you want a solar shower that can travel with you, look no further than our budget pick from Gorge-buy. Affordable and portable, this solar shower bag is made from food-grade, waterproof material.

It holds up to five gallons of water, which is more than enough for three people to shower outdoors.

You can carry this solar shower as a backpack while traveling, so it’s easy to transport. When you’re ready for a shower, you can easily hang it from your tent or a tree branch. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy an outdoor shower thanks to Gorge-buy’s solar shower, which is why it’s our top pick for a budget-friendly option.

Let’s face it — we only take quick showers to save time and conserve water. With Gereton’s five-gallon unit, you can bask under the spray for eight minutes continually once the bag’s had time to charge.

Made from environmentally-friendly PVC and powered by the sun, you won’t have to feel guilty about taking a leisurely shower with this solar shower bag. It comes with two detachable straps, so you can carry it slung over one shoulder or use it as a backpack.

Great for fishing, hiking, and camping trips — or spending a day at the beach — this solar shower comes with a detachable nozzle. If you aren’t the type to linger in the shower, you can rinse off quickly without getting drenched.
Thanks to the included air pump, you can also fill the solar shower bag with air and use it as a flotation device, so it serves double duty, making this our best solar shower for versatility.

If you’re carrying five gallons of water over a long distance, the last thing you want is for the solar shower itself to add extra weight to your load. Weighing in at a meager 1.4 pounds, this solar shower from ADVANCED ELEMENTS won’t drag you down.

Featuring a four-ply construction, a reflector panel, and an insulator panel, this solar shower keeps your water piping hot.

You’ll find storage for your shampoo and soap — and even velcro panels to hold your washcloths — so you won’t have to carry an extra bag to bring your toiletries along. The on-off switch is easy to use even with soapy hands, and the sizable filling value makes it easy to fill your solar shower without wasting any water.

A fantastic option if you’re traveling with a large group, this 2-pack from Swimline Store offers two solar shower bags. Each bag has a five-gallon capacity, so up to six people can shower without having to refill them. Swimline Store’s solar shower bag uses a hanging bar and rope system that makes it simple to set your shower up on a tree branch or tent for ease of use.

Each solar shower bag has a flexible hose with an attached showerhead, making it easy to direct the spray exactly where you want it. These bags are incredibly lightweight, too, so they won’t add any extra heft to your load, making this shower our best convenience pick.

This inexpensive solar shower bag from Intex can heat up to 118 degrees Fahrenheit, providing you with a nice, hot shower after a long day outdoors. Its five-gallon capacity means it’s suitable for use by a small group. Its lightweight, flexible construction means you can roll up the bag and store it once it’s empty.

While there are no bells and whistles on this model, it features a solid handle to make carrying and hanging your solar shower bag easy and comfortable. The attached showerhead comes with an easily accessible on-off valve, so you can control the water flow no matter how slippery your hands are.

If you want a stylish option that doesn’t look like a solar shower bag at first glance, None Brand’s five-gallon offering is a fantastic choice. The camouflage pattern adds a nice touch of personality to a functional solar shower bag.

It’s capable of heating up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit in three hours. And None Brand’s solar shower has a temperature indicator, so you can keep an eye on the temperature of the water.

The thick, heavy-duty carrying strap is strong enough that you can loop it over a tree — or even your car door — so the water heats up while you enjoy your fun in the sun. Thanks to None Brand, you can shower anywhere, even right outside your car.

With its massive water capacity and durable design, this solar shower bag from Owlike is a great option for campers, hikers, and more. It can heat up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit, so your shower will be nice and hot. The detachable hose and shower attachment makes it easy to carry and store when it’s not in use.

The bag itself is lightweight and made with reinforced seams, so you won’t have to worry about any leaks. Greatest of all, it holds enough water for your entire family to shower without having to refill it and letting the water heat up. In fact, its main selling point is the only real downside, as 10.5 gallons is roughly equivalent to 90 pounds, so it could be difficult to carry.

No one likes to wait to take a shower. With this solar shower bag from FeChiX, you can leave it out to heat up, and you’ll have a piping hot shower waiting for you in only three hours. Capable of heating up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, this solar shower bag has an on-off lever, and you can even adjust the water pressure to achieve the perfect spray.

This bag is made from durable, eco-friendly materials and features a heavy-duty carrying handle. Even more impressive for such an affordable option is the temperature indicator, which tells you exactly how hot your water is using easy-to-read numbers and a color-changing temperature bar.

If you want a solar shower that’s made from environmentally-friendly materials, LMing’s five-gallon option might be a good choice for you. Featuring a shower head with adjustable water pressure, an easily accessible on-off switch, and the ability to heat up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit, LMing’s five-gallon unit offers great value for your dollar.

Greatest of all, you can store your soap and shampoo in the front pocket of this bag, eliminating the need for an additional toiletry bag. You can carry this portable shower draped over your shoulder without worrying about it sliding down thanks to its thick, no-slip shoulder strap.

The last thing anyone wants to deal with is a leaking unit. Thanks to KIPIDA’s solid, durable construction, you can leave your worries in the past and concentrate on having fun. This portable shower heats up to 113 degrees Fahrenheit in around three hours, so you can set it out to warm up while you enjoy your day.

You’ll find an on-off lever, a shower head with adjustable water pressure, and mesh pockets to store your toiletries with this model. The large filling valve with a twist-off cap makes filling your bag quick and easy. Carrying this one is a breeze, too. The strap is thick, solid, and features a no-slip design.

A fantastic option for individual use, this 2.5-gallon bag from ADVANCED ELEMENTS has all the features you need without the extra weight you don’t want. It offers a wide filling valve, velcro straps for your soap and shampoo, and a shower head with an on-off switch.

You can even roll it up and tuck it into another bag without causing any damage once you’ve showered. Small but durable, this bag has four-layer construction for maximum leak protection and heat retention. If you want to shower outdoors, but you don’t want to lug around a five-gallon model, this might be a great option for you.

This bright and cheerful five-gallon unit from Andmax heats up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit in three hours, which doesn’t sound all that impressive compared to other options. However, most people’s preferred shower temperature is 105 degrees, so it’s right on target for the majority. (2) Andmax’s solar shower is made from eco-friendly, 3-layer PVC, making it both a durable and environmentally conscious option.

Offering a flexible water hose and adjustable water flow, Andmax’s option is a great choice for those who want to take a full shower or simply hose the sand from their legs and feet after a day at the beach. It also has a mesh pouch to hold all of your toiletries, saving you from having to carry an extra bag. And, greatest of all, it’s an affordable way of showering outdoors, no standing shower — or running water — required.

Buyers’ Guide (Top 3 Tips – To Know Before You Buy)

Hang on a few minutes before you click that ‘add to cart’ button. There are a few things you should know before you buy a solar shower. We’ll go over them in detail to make your selection process as easy as possible.

1. Know what type of solar shower you need

Before you make your purchase, the first thing you should know is what type of solar shower you need. You have a couple of different options when it comes to solar showers. Let’s review them in a bit more detail.

Solar Bag Shower

Many of the options featured on our list of the top solar showers are solar bag showers. Made from a lightweight, flexible material, solar bag showers heat water using sunlight. Because solar bag showers require gravity to achieve adequate water pressure, they should be placed at least head-height before you shower. (3)

One of the top benefits of using a solar bag shower is the relatively low price point. Many cost a fraction of the price you would pay for a more advanced unit. They’re also much less cumbersome, making them a better option for backpackers and day-trippers who still want a shower but don’t have access to running water.

Combo Solar Shower

A couple of the options on our list classify as combo solar showers because they’re able to serve more than one purpose. Both the Gereton and Gorge-Buy models can be filled with air and used as flotation devices.

This makes them a fantastic option for fishing enthusiasts, especially those who intend to bring their children along, as they can be used as an added safety measure in an emergency situation.

2. Consider what size solar shower you want

The next important decision you need to make is what size you want. This will be determined by the size of your group, available storage space, and individual carrying capacity.

For example, if a group of young teenagers wants to take a solar shower to the beach, they may not be able to carry 10 gallons. Fortunately, a variety of sizes is available. No matter how much weight you can carry, there’s a unit out there for you.

2.5 Gallons

Weighing in at less than 21 pounds when completely full, a 2.5-gallon solar shower provides enough water for one person to shower or for a few people to wash their hands. (4) A 2.5 gallon solar shower is light enough for one person to carry it without difficulty, so it’s a great option if you’re traveling alone, especially if you have a hard time lifting anything heavier.

One recommendation to make showering easier is to ask your fellow campers to bring their own 2.5-gallon solar shower along for the trip. They’re inexpensive, lightweight, and won’t take up much space. Most importantly, it means there’s no need to bicker over who gets to go first and who has to wait. Everyone can shower at the same time.

5 Gallons

Five gallons clocks in at over 40 pounds, so you need to be in great shape or have a carrying buddy to lug this around over long distances. We recommend placing your unit in a backpack for even weight distribution if you’re going to carry it for longer than a few feet from your vehicle or campsite to set it up. (5)

The good news is that a five-gallon model is possible for one person to carry in most standard backpacks, and even many solar backpacks. This means if you would rather fill up your water reservoir once and forget about it, it’s a great option for solo travelers as well as groups.

Over 5 Gallons

If you’re traveling with a large group, it might be tempting to go out and buy a portable shower with the largest water capacity available. But you should probably think it through before you do so.

For example, Owlike’s 10.5-gallon model weighs a hefty 87.6 pounds, which is difficult for one person to carry and unwieldy when carried between two people. Consider whether it’s worth carrying something so cumbersome before you spend your money on a large option like this one.

3. Find the top deal for you

While these portable showers tend to be highly affordable, every last dollar counts when you’re on a tight budget. Besides, making sure you find the top deal is a smart move no matter what your budget looks like. There are a few ways to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. We like to keep all of them in mind when we’re shopping for any new item.

Limited Time Deals

Most stores have major sales, especially during summer and the holiday season, but did you know certain items tend to go on sale during different times of the year? June and August are popular months to buy outdoor equipment and camping gear like solar showers, so if you want to get the top value for your dollar, keep an eye out for low prices during those months. (6)

Another great way to save money during a limited time deal is by using a price drop app like Paribus, which monitors prices and issues refunds if the price drops after you’ve already purchased an item. (7) You simply set up your account, allow Paribus access to your receipts, and they’ll credit you back the difference between the sale price and your purchase price.

Want to save money in advance instead of waiting for a refund? Check out price monitoring apps, which let you know the lowest prices on items you want to buy based on saved information (i.e. “liking” an item in the app) and geo-location services. (8) You can also do things the old-fashioned, low-tech way and keep an eye out for retailer or brand-specific coupons.

Shipping

Something else to keep in mind is the cost of shipping. Shipping prices vary by the weight and size of an item as well as the shipping distance, but some retailers offer free shipping if you spend a certain amount of money.

Our favorite retailers tend to offer free shipping regardless of how much you spend, but you should always factor in potential shipping costs so you can stay within your budget. Fortunately, many of these showers don’t weigh very much at all, so if there is a shipping cost it won’t be that much.

A great tip not everyone knows is to check your retailer’s website for search parameters. Many websites allow you to narrow down your search for items that offer free shipping, and some even let you look for items that are on sale, too.

Final Price

Lastly, you need to account for the final price of your solar shower. If you’re purchasing a shower in addition to camping or fishing gear, you’ll want to get the most bang for your buck so you can afford everything on your wishlist.

Whether you use coupons, wait for a limited time offer, or purchase your unit full price, you should always factor in things like sales taxes and shipping costs when you set your budget. Buying a solar shower full price won’t break the bank, but who doesn’t want to save money when they have the option to do so?

FAQ

We’ve put together a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about solar showers and answered them for you to save you from having to research them.

• How well do solar showers work?

  If your solar shower is in working order — meaning it doesn’t have any holes or damaged parts — it should work quite well. Solar showers depend on water capacity, the duration of sun exposure, and the quality of sun exposure. (9)

  For example, your solar shower probably won’t reach the maximum possible temperature on partially cloudy days. Many solar showers take three hours to heat up fully, but if you can’t wait a full three hours, your water won’t be as warm as it could be. Smaller capacity showers heat up faster, but they also cool off faster, too.

  Something else to keep in mind is ambient temperature. If you’re absolutely filthy, a cool shower might be better than no shower at all. But you should use an alternative like wipes — or tough out being dirty — if the ambient temperature outdoors is uncomfortably cool. Showering in hot water might sound like a great idea in cold weather, but it isn’t worth risking hypothermia.

• What is the best camp shower?

  Determining the best camp shower for you depends on a few different factors. If you’re camping alone, bringing a small, 2.5-gallon solar shower is a great option. You can refill it as you need it, let it soak up the sun for a few hours, and crawl into your sleeping bag nice and clean. On the other hand, if you’re camping with a group, you’ll probably want a solar shower with more water capacity.

  Another thing to keep in mind is how long you plan on camping. A smaller solar shower is a good choice for a weekend getaway, but if you’re planning on spending a week or two in the great outdoors, you might want to consider other options.

  You can buy a portable shower tent to protect you from the wind and give you more privacy, but you can also make one yourself using plastic sheeting. Hooking the straps of a solar shower bag over a tree branch and surrounding it with a tarp makes for a great, affordable camp shower.

• What is the best solar shower?

  The bad news is that there’s no single answer that will satisfy every single reader. The good news is that’s the only bad news. What makes one solar shower ideal for one person could be a pain point for another.

  A good example is a solar shower with immense water capacity. While a group of campers might think having a 10.5-gallon solar shower is great because they can all shower at once, an individual might wonder how they’re supposed to carry it on their own.

  There are a few questions you should ask yourself before you purchase a solar shower: what type of solar shower do you need? What size solar shower will work best for you? Last, but certainly not least, you need to ask yourself, “What does my budget look like?” That will vary from person to person, too.

  If you already have everything else you need, then you won’t have to worry as much about the cost of a solar shower. On the other hand, if you need to buy a tent, four sleeping bags, and a solar shower, then you might need to pinch pennies where you can.

  As with most other purchasing decisions in life, only you can decide what makes any given product right for you. That being said, we think each solar shower featured on our list is a great option for any shopper.

The Bottom Line: Should You Buy the Best Solar Shower of 2021 Today?

There are a lot of truly fantastic solar showers featured on our list here at ecw.org, but if you want the best of the best, our top pick is Tidyard’s Solar Shower. Thanks to its 9.25-gallon water capacity and it’s ability to heat up quickly, you can take a piping hot shower after working in the garden, swimming laps in your pool, or if you’re out camping.

Ultimately, it’s pretty tough to beat if you’re looking for the top solar shower to buy today!

Want more highly-reviewed solar gear for your next camping trip like the Tidyard Solar Shower? If so, check out our top-rated solar oven and solar refrigerator of the year, and get ready to unplug, unwind, and recharge your batteries with good ole mother nature.