The Best Shower Tent of 2022 Reviewed
YOUR EXPERT
Alan is our resident expert on all things wild camping. He loves nothing better than to get out of the house with just his ex-Army sleeping gear and a stove, and head off to the remotest spot he can find near his home on the south coast of the UK.
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It is no secret that camping is often a messy and muddy affair, with trips to the nearby woods for a quick wash all too common. Even though a bit of dirt is part of the outdoor experience, no one wants their trip ruined by it.
If only there was a way to have all the best parts of camping; toasted marshmallows, long walks, and beautiful views, without the bad parts; no proper toilets, no showers, and no privacy. We're here to tell you that exactly that is possible!
Camp shower tents are the perfect solution to any hygiene or privacy issues. They can be used to house your favourite portable shower, as a toilet, or as a portable dressing room. Thanks to their center height and design, they are suitable to be used by virtually anyone and guarantee a level of comfort you didn't even know was possible in the great outdoors!
If you want to upgrade your camping experience and revolutionize the way you wash, then keep on reading this guide to find the best shower tent for you!
What is a Camping Shower Tent?
Camping shower privacy tents are portable products that can be used as showers, toilet tents, or changing rooms. They are the perfect items to bring on camping trips, hikes, or muddy biking expeditions, and ideal if you don't want to make your own shower enclosure!
They provide a level of privacy that can be pretty difficult to find in the great outdoors and allow you to stay clean and comfy throughout your camping trip. The best shower tents should be easy to set up and have a good center height so that, even if you're tall, you can easily use them. It is important to remember that not all tents will be multi-purpose, so if this is something that is important to you then make sure to double-check before purchasing.
Different categories of shower tents will work in different ways, which we have outlined below. Regardless of the specific design that you choose, however, all of the best shower tents should be able to provide you with an adequate supply of water, maintain privacy, and keep you protected from the outside elements.
Whether you require just a small space or a 2-room shower, an easy set-up, or a big storage area - there is a portable shower tent suited to your needs.
The Types of Shower Tents
Solar-powered
A solar shower tent works by using a solar shower bag that can carry large amounts of water. They have a black surface that absorbs heat from the sun and, over the course of a day, heats up the water inside the shower bag. Showerheads and taps can be attached to the bags, and from there you are free to enjoy your warm shower.
Of course, this means that you can only use this shower tent at a certain time of the day, and it will have to be set up as the sun is rising so that it can warm up enough. This is not a problem in the summer months when a cold shower is perfect in the morning and a warm, solar-powered shower can be had in the evening.
Not to mention, a solar shower is definitely the most environmentally conscious choice. If you're looking to make some small changes that will have big benefits to the world we live in, then definitely think about opting for a solar-powered camping shower tent!
Battery-powered
Another popular choice is a battery-powered shower room. They use battery power to heat up water, which can then be used at any time of day. They are probably the easiest camping shower option, as they do not require a sunny day as a solar shower does.
Most battery-powered camping showers use a 4D cell battery, which is portable and easy to carry, making it no extra hassle to bring one along with you on your trip!
Propane-powered
If convenience is key to you, then a propane-powered shower tent is the best option. It uses a propane burner to heat up water very quickly and easily.
Whilst undoubtedly the most efficient choice of the three, a propane-powered shower is not as safe. If you are traveling with children then it is not recommended as the equipment should only be handled by adults.
What's more, the tent is slightly heavier than a solar or battery-powered alternative would be, and so is less suitable for those who need to travel lightweight or solo travelers.
Shower Tent Comparison Table
| Product | Price | Pole Material Type | Fabric Type | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OVERALL BEST! Nemo Heliopolis Portable Shower Tent | $$$ | Lightweight Aluminum | 75D PeU Polyester | Check Price |
| Green Elephant Pop-up Tent | $ | Steel | Professional Standart High Quality polyester coated PU | Check Price |
| KingCamp Oversize Outdoor Shelter Tent | $$ | Fiberglass | Polyester | Check Price |
| Vidalido Outdoor Shower Tent | $$ | Steel | Nylon Polyester | Check Price |
| Texsport Portable Outdoor Camp Shelter | $ | Rust-resistant Steel | Nylon | Check Price |
| TMS Portable Pop-up Tent | $ | Steel | Polyester | Check Price |
| Ozark Trail 2 Room Instant Shower Utility Shelter | $ | Steel | Polyester | Check Price |
| GigaTent Pop-up Pod Outdoor Shower Tent | $ | Steel | Polyester | Check Price |
| Leader Accessories Pop-up Shower Tent | $ | Steel | 210t Polyester Ripstop | Check Price |
| Core Instant Camping Shower Tent | $ | Telescoping Steel | Polyester | Check Price |
The Best Shower Tents for Camping
Undoubtedly the best portable outdoor shower tent that you could purchase is the Nemo Heliopolis. It is difficult to find a flaw with this tent, and it comes highly recommended by outdoor and camping professionals.
It provides a sense of luxury through its spacious interior and 7ft center height, and has a multitude of purposes, from changing room to privacy shelter to just a space to relax. The Nemo Heliopolis is incredibly functional and comes with many amenities such as a shower hose and storage pockets for maximum comfort.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
There is no need to look any further than the Nemo Heliopolis if you are looking for a premium and durable shower tent. You won't find a better-value option on the market which is of such high quality. This tent can be used for any outdoor occasion and is guaranteed to withstand virtually any weather conditions.
Second on our list is the Green Elephant pop-up shower tent, which is great for camping trips, hikes, and biking expeditions. It can be used as a toilet, shower, or changing room, making it a versatile and good-value option.
Thanks to its ergonomic design, you'll never have to feel uncomfortable or cramped in this tent. it is high and wide enough to accommodate the majority of people with ease, and also comes with mosquito netting, which allows for air circulation whilst maintaining a high level of privacy.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
The Green Elephant is an all-around excellent shower tent and is difficult to fault. It comes with a lot of additional accessories that many of its competitors do not, and clearly has comfort at the forefront of its design. This is a tent that can be used for virtually any occasion and by anyone; we highly recommend it!
If you're looking for a more premium shower privacy tent, then the KingCamp Oversize Outdoor shelter is the choice for you.
This tent is made with the highest-quality materials, from a durable polyester floor to a mesh perimeter for maximum water drainage. The inclusion of mesh makes this tent breathable and comfortable, but also comes with panels so you don't have to feel as though your privacy has been compromised.
Whilst there is some assembly required with the KingCamp, it is easy and can be done by one person, so this shouldn't be an issue for most.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
An excellent sized and multi-functional camping shower tent, the KingCamp oversize outdoor privacy shelter is perfect for groups or families who require a little extra space on their trips. Whilst this tent may not be as strong as some competitors, it is still durable, weatherproof, and comes at a great price considering its many additional features.
One of the best on the market when it comes to versatile shower tents is the Vidalido. It can be used as a shower, changing room, privacy tent, or toilet, and is perfect for any outdoor occasion, from beach trips to backyard birthday parties.
Despite using mesh and side and rooftop windows for optimum ventilation, this tent comes with zippers and is totally opaque, to ensure your privacy from the outside world. Furthermore, the Vidalido camp shower is made with 200d Oxford cloth, making it very weather-resistant and durable.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
This tent may not be for everyone due to the fact it can only accommodate one person at a time, but if this is not a problem for you then the Vidalido is an ideal choice. It has been designed with comfort, ease of use, and privacy at the forefront, making it one of the best shower tents out there.
One for the budget-conscious, the Texsport portable outdoor camp shelter can provide you with everything you need at a very low price.
Its design means that it is incredibly lightweight, compact, and easily transportable. It also comes with a 5-gallon solar reservoir to heat up your bathwater. One of the best things about the Texsport is that it can be assembled anywhere by simply attaching the durable web straps to an overhanging branch.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
Whilst this shower tent may not be as luxurious as some of its competitors, it is able to work as both a bathroom and privacy shelter, making it great for those looking for a convenient and easy to use outdoor shower tent which won't break the bank. However, if you are looking for a more premium or luxurious option then this may not be as suited to your needs.
If you're particularly conscious about your privacy when it comes to using an outdoor camp shower or changing room, then the TMS Portable pop-up shower tent is the perfect way to ease your concerns. It it made with durable, waterproof, and completely opaque polyester, so you are totally protected from outside elements.
This tent is also very easy to set up; all you have to do is remove it from its bag and unfold it! The steel poles are sewn into the tent's structure, meaning you don't have to waste time assembling it.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
You can't go wrong with the TMS outdoor camping shower tent. It has everything you could need and is excellent value, from its lightweight and compact size to its guarantee of total privacy. Whilst less suitable for large groups due to its size, it is a great all-rounder: easy to carry, to set up, and to use!
The Ozark Trail 2-room shower tent is perfect for anyone needing a little extra space or for large groups. One room can be used as a changing room or privacy shelter, whilst the other acts as a solar shower or bathroom.
This tent can be set up in a matter of seconds thanks to its pre-attached instant frame design, and its high-quality materials mean that it will be certain to last you a long time!
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
One of the most popular outdoor camping showers on the market is the Ozark Trail 2-room shelter, and it is not hard to see why. This tent has ample space, comes with additional features like storage pockets, and is made with the best materials. It is a failsafe option for families or groups of friends who want to keep comfortable on their trips.
If your priority is an easy-to-use and portable outdoor shower tent, then look no further than the GigaTent. Not only is it a pop-up privacy shelter, which means it requires no effort to set up, but it can be easily folded into a carry bag.
As if this wasn't enough, the GigaTent is made using only the most durable water-resistant polyester for the walls and a steel frame.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
This pop-up privacy shelter and shower tent is designed to bring you versatility, comfort, and a sense of luxury whilst adventuring in the great outdoors. Even though it may not be as suited to particularly tall people, it functions perfectly and is one of the sturdiest pop-up tents on the market!
Another excellent pop-up privacy camp shower tent is that by Leader Accessories. Similarly to the GigaTent, this option comes with guy lines and metal mounting stakes for added security in windy conditions.
Able to be used as a privacy tent, changing room, or portable shower, the Leader Accessories tent provides total privacy whilst also delivering on quality. It features a zippered door for ease of access, a rust-resistant steel frame and a floor design which keeps the tent clean.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
For a portable shower tent, Leader Accessories have developed one of the best products in terms of portability and key features. It can be set up with minimal effort whilst still delivering on stability and quality. If you are looking for an easy-to-use but durable option, then this is the one for you.
Last, but not least is the Core instant camping shower tent, which is another great 2-room choice. The shower room is separated from the portable changing room by a zippered panel, ensuring privacy and making sure that your belongings won't get wet.
Unlike some other 2-room options, the Core is a pop-up design, making assembly incredibly simple and meaning it can be transported in a carry bag. What's more, this privacy tent comes with an integrated washing line and storage pockets for your convenience.
Pros
Cons
Final thoughts:
The Core camping shower tent is one of the best when it comes to pop-up products, as it features 2 rooms and a whole host of additional amenities. Whilst the fact it is an instant tent may put some people off, it is made with high-quality materials to ensure longevity and is definitely a premium option.
Buyer's guide
Weather resistance
If you're planning on using your new portable shower tent for outdoor occasions such as camping or hiking trips, then it is very important that it has a good level of weather resistance. A tent that does not have adequate resistance to adverse weather conditions could cause some serious discomfort, and even render the tent unusable.
The level of weather resistance your tent has will depend on its design and materials, which is why it is vital that your chosen shower tent is of the best quality. The majority of camping shower tents are lightweight, narrow, and tall, which can make them very susceptible to wind. To minimize the risk of your tent blowing over or breaking, try to find one which can be secured to the ground.
To ensure that you will be properly protected from rain, find a tent that uses materials with water-resistance such as polyester. This way, you will be able to shower, use the camp toilet, and get changed in privacy without worrying about the outside elements getting in.
Design
The kind of design that you are looking for in a shower tent will differ depending on what you plan to use the tent for, how often you will use it, and in what circumstances it will be used. Generally speaking, however, you should be looking for a sturdy and ergonomic-designed tent that uses waterproof and weather-resistant materials to ensure longevity and durability.
Another important point to consider is how tall and wide you need your privacy tent to be. For example, if you are particularly tall then you will need to find an option with ample space, and likewise for other body shapes and sizes.
Some camping shower tents come with multiple rooms, which is ideal for families or groups sharing tents. A 2-room shower tent is less suited for solo travelers or those who don't want to be carrying large, heavy amounts of gear. We advise weighing up the pros and cons of certain features in order to figure out which design elements are essential for you, and which are unnecessary.
For some, aesthetics are an important part of an item's design and will factor significantly in the decision-making process. Some tents are available in a variety of colors, whilst others will include features such as attractive paneling or poles so that you can choose the one which is most visually appealing.
A final point to consider is whether you want a fixed or removable floor. Fixed floors are a good option because they keep your feet off the dirty floor and offer protection from bugs, but they usually mean your shower will not drain as well. In the long-term, this can lead to a mildew build-up and poor sanitation.
Value
One of the most important things to think about before buying any product is its value for money. Indications that a shower tent is of good value include the use of high-quality materials such as fiberglass poles, good customer reviews, and an ergonomic design.
A lot of people will be looking for a privacy shower tent on a budget and may think that this means they have to compromise on quality. They could not be more wrong. Of course, if you purchase the first cheap outdoor shower that you see, there is a chance it will fall apart quickly and not do what it is meant to.
However, if you read through this guide and make sure you are equipped with knowledge about what makes the best shower tent, then there is no reason why you should not be able to find an excellent option that won't break the bank.
On the other hand, you might be wanting to splash out a little and make an investment, especially if you go away on a lot of trips where a camping shower tent would come in handy. If this is the case, then we have a range of amazing premium choices to suit any requirements you may have.
Size and weight
Because you will be taking your tent with you on outdoor trips, you need to make sure that it can be carried without much difficulty and that it doesn't take up too much space.
If you are traveling in a larger group, then the size and weight of your shower tent will matter a bit less because the task of carrying it can be shared out and you will probably want a 2-room privacy tent anyway.
However, if you need lightweight gear that can be easily transported, then a compact tent is essential. In this case, a pop-up shower tent is an ideal choice because it requires no assembly and is the most lightweight camping tent with a shower that you'll find. Alternatively, look for a tent that has lightweight poles or that is solar or battery-powered, as these tend to be significantly lighter than a propane-powered shower tent.
Materials
No matter what type of camp shower tent you are interested in, it is vital that the materials used in the construction of the tent are of premium quality. If your chosen tent is made from cheap or non-waterproof materials then the chances are it will fall apart quickly and not keep you protected from the elements.
With adequate materials, a tent will be able to provide proper ventilation without leaving you exposed to rain or wind. The inclusion of mesh is essential for good air circulation, and side windows can also help to achieve this. However, if your chosen tent does have windows, then make sure that these can be covered for privacy reasons.
A feature that most people would not even think to consider is the pole materials that the tent is depending on. If the poles are weak, then the whole tent structure is vulnerable to blowing over or be unusable from the start. The best poles will be made from metal, making them very sturdy and weatherproof. Furthermore, the poles should be rust-resistant so that they can withstand harsh rain or snow.
Some shower tents use fiberglass, which can be a bit more fragile, so if possible opt for a metal such as steel or aluminum. Meanwhile, the majority of tents will be made from a type of polyester, which is perfect as long as it is water-resistant and anti-tear.
