The Best Camping Hot Water System Of 2024 - Buying Guides & FAQs

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best Camping Hot Water System
Best Camping Hot Water System

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE 5L 1.32 GPM Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater

The Camplux AY132 is a portable, lightweight water heater weighing 10 lbs. with a convenient carry handle. It's great for camping, to the beach or family vacations, mountain cabins and horse stables. This propane water heater only takes you 10 minutes to set up. It has an oxygen depletion sensor protection so it can be also installed inside your home where is well-ventilated. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater for Instant Hot Water

The Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater for Instant Hot Water is a compact and lightweight design that is great for small spaces. Its automatic safety shutoff technology shuts off the gas burner when water reaches 142-149 degrees Fahrenheit, so you don't have to worry about accidental fires or explosions. The water flow sensor and fuse ensure added safety and convenience. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Tankless Water Heater, GASLAND Outdoors BE158R 1.58GPM 6L Portable Gas Water Heater

This gas water heater is lightweight, portable, and efficient, giving you the freedom to enjoy your outdoor life without worrying about shutoff valves or the inconvenience of a constantly running water pump. With multiple safety protections and multiple daily applications, this gas water heater is perfect for all your outdoor activities. Read Review

4. Best Lightweight: Camplux 2.64 GPM Propane Portable Gas Water Heater

Camplux 2.64 GPM Propane Portable Gas Water Heater is a lightweight portable design, compact size that features a low water pressure regulator and an anti-freezing drain plug to prevent freezing in cold areas or in case of long time no use. Camplux features automatic shut off for high water temperature protection over 176°F. Read Review

Most campers don’t give much thought to where their hot water comes from, but for those who do, it can be a big deal. Campers need hot water for more than just brushing their teeth and making coffee: as we explore during our basic camping gear piece, there are many other activities that require a steady supply of hot water. Hot water is also an important factor when choosing a campsite: any time you spend outdoors in the summer your home needs air conditioning (unless you choose to sleep outdoors).

Anytime you have to spend time outside with little or no access to running water, you’ll need to come up with a system that doesn’t leave you sweaty and uncomfortable at night. Hot water system design can be challenging because it involves finding ways to efficiently produce hot water while minimizing energy use and cost. There are several factors that must be taken into consideration if you want your camping hot water system to be efficient and cost-effective. It should not be difficult or expensive, but simple enough that anyone can operate it correctly.

Our team had to focus on researching for 14 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE 5L 1.32 GPM Outdoor Portable Propane Tankless Water Heater is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

  • Wide Applications: The water heater start up with 3.0 PSI lowest water pressure. Hot water powered by 2 size D batteries,it's perfect for off-grid and rural aeras. No cold outdoor shower anymore
  • Installation Recommended: This propane water heater only takes you 10 minutes to set up. Read the instructions before installation. Always check gas leakage before operation
  • Operation Features: The flow rate is 1.32 GPM, 1.32 gallons of hot water can be output per minute. The maximum temperature raise is 114.8℉(46℃) and the minimum temperature raise is 46.4℉(8℃)for 1.32GPM
  • Compact,Portable Design: The compact portable water heater weights 10 lb, with folding handle keeps it out of the way, allowing for a convenient set-up outdoors
  • CSA Safety Approved: CSA approved tankless water heater for US & Canada markets, more safety gurantee
  • What You Get: Camplux AY132 gas water heater, 5ft shower head & gas regulator, US standard garden hose, installation hardware pack and considerate customer service with 1 year warranty
  • 6-in-1 Proection: Flame failure device, anti-freezing protection and oxygen depletion safety shut-off protection
TOP Choice #2 Hike Crew Portable Propane Water Heater for Instant Hot Water
Our Score:
9.6
Hike Crew
  • PUMP & HEAT ON-THE-GO – Connect AC/DC Adapter to Outlet or 12V Cigarette Lighter to Car for Instant Hot Water; Perfect for Camping, Fishing, Hiking & Hunting
  • CONVENIENT COMPACT DESIGN – Travel Friendly Heater Arrives With Adapters, Hoses, Attachments & Accessories in a Handy Carry Bag [Propane Not Included]
  • COMFORTABLE CAMPSITE SHOWERS – Includes Water Temperature Control Knob, Hand Faucet/Spigot & Shower Head Attachment w/ [3] Adjustable Spray Patterns
  • AUTOMATIC SAFETY SHUTOFF – Smart Technology Turns Off the Gas Burner When Water Reaches 142-149 °F; Water Flow Sensor & Fuse & Tilt Protection for Added Safety
  • PORTABLE OUTDOOR WATER HEATER – Innovative System Runs on Propane Gas Tank to Heat Water for Showering, Washing Dishes, Cleaning Hands & Other Tasks
  • 🏄‍♀【Important Tips】To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. The gas water heater will "caught on fire "with improper operation. Always check gas leakage before operation.
  • 🏄‍♀【CSA Approved】CSA approved Gasland tankless water heater, safe as per Canadian and US Standard. Flame failure device, anti-freezing protection, over heating protection to ensure the family safety. Automatically decrease water pressure between 2.5-110PSI. The anti-freezing drain plug can discharge the residual water to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time no use. High water temperature protection over 167 °F. Shut off gas supply automatically under unexpectable flameout.
  • 🏄‍♀【Energy Saving】 Compact and light weight structure with 11.5% energy saving technology. The propane water heater exchanger and main burner are desinged with advanced combustion technology to decrease gas consumption and burning noise. You will save more when you use our tankless water heater.
  • 🏄‍♀【On Demand Hot Water】 Maximum power output 41,000BTU/Hr, get instant endless hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat before using tankless water heater. As soon as you turn on the tap, the water flows with your desired temperature. Low water pressure start up, just need 2.5 PSI of water pressure. 1.58 gallons per minute of on-demand hot water. Fully adjustable heat and water flow.
  • 🏄‍♀【Lightweight Portable Design】 Compact size and lightweight design for easily carry. It can bring a amazing hot shower for you when you are camping, to the beach, etc. Also you can wash your pets with this tankless water heater in outdoor. Hang it using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the gas water heater. It only takes you a few minutes to install it. Or you can install it according to the instructions.
4 Camplux 2.64 GPM Propane Portable Gas Water Heater
Our Score:
9.4
CAMPLUX ENJOY OUTDOOR LIFE
  • 2.64 GPM Instant Hot Water- Maximum power output 68,000btu/hour, you can get 2.64 gallons instant endless hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat before operating the tankless gas water heater. As soon as you turn on the tap, the water flows with your desired temperature.
  • CSA Safety Standard -CSA safety standard approved tankless propane water heater,flame failure device, anti-freezing protection, over heating protection to ensure the family safety. Automatically decrease water pressure between 3.6-110 PSI. The anti-freezing drain plug can discharge the residual water to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time no use. The propane hot water heater will shut off automatically when high water temperature protection over 176 °F.
  • Lightweight Portable Design-Compact size and weights 23 lbs for easily carry. Hang it using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the gas water heater. It only takes you a 15 minutes to install the propane water heater.
  • Energy Saving-Compact and light weight structure with 11.5% energy saving technology.The propane gas water heater exchanger and main burner are designed with advanced combustion technology to decrease gas consumption and burning noise.
  • Important Tips -To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. The propane tankless water heater will "caught on fire "with improper operation. Always check gas leakage before operation.
  • 【LIGHTWEIGHT & INSTANT HOT WATER】 Only weighing 9 lbs and energy-saving, this portable propane water heater is perfect companion for your journey. With maximum power output 34,000 BTU/HR, you can get 1.32 gallons endless hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat before operating the propane hot water heater. As soon as you turn on the tap, you will get water at the temperature you desire.
  • 【EASY TO INSTALL & USE】 Started with 2.5 PSI low water pressure, this tankless water heater propane is good for RV camping, outdoor trip and washing pets. No electricity required, ignition of the propane water heater is with 2 pieces D cell batteries(not included). With the LED display, you can easily adjust the temperature to meet your need.
  • 【FULLY EQUIPPED】 No need to look around for accessories! This portable tankless water heater comes with a CSA gas regulator, a high pressure shower head with a 5-foot(1.5 meters) stainless steel hose, an US universal gas connector(fitted already), 2 garden hose adapters, wrenches and fitting kits.
  • 【5 SAFETY PROTECTIONS】 Designed with oxygen depletion safety shut-off protection, over-heating protection, anti- freezing protection(a drain plug to discharge residual water), flame failure device and dry combustion protection, the camping propane water heater aims to keep you and your family safe all the time.
  • 【100% SATISFACTION】 This on demand propane water heater is the real deal! We aim to ensure that every customer have a happy and worry-free purchase experience. If you have further query please feel free to contact us.
  • Easy to Install: This 1.32 GPM on demand hot water heater comes with 5 feet gas regulator, shower hose and US standard garden hose, easy to install in 5 mins.
  • Safey Insurance: Camplux propane tankless water heater was CSA certified, 6-in-1 protections ensures you a comfortable outdoor shower.
  • Portable Design: The portable propane water heater with portable and handle, weights only 14lbs.
  • Energy & Cost Saving: Portable hot water heater with maximum power output 34,000btu/hour, provides 1.32 GPM hot water on demand, no need to preheat,saving up to 50% on water heating costs.
  • Low Water Pressure: The portable camping gas water heater start with 3.0 PSI low water pressure,it's good for RV camping, outdoor trip, washing pets.
  • 🎁【Multiple Protection Functions】The Gasland propane water heater comes with flame failure device, anti-freezing protection, over heating protection to ensure the family safety. Automatically decrease water pressure between 3.8-110PSI. The anti-freezing drain plug can discharge the residual water to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time no use. High water temperature protection over 167 °F. Shut off gas supply automatically under unexpectable flameout.
  • 🎁【Portable Wall-Mounted Design】Portable design for carry on easily. It can bring a amazing hot shower for you when you are camping , to the beach, etc. Also you can wash your pets with this portable hot water heater in your garden. Hang it using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the propane water heater. It only takes you a few minutes to install it. Or you can install it according to the instructions.
  • 🎁【Energy Saving】 Compact and light weight structure with 11.5% energy saving technology. The heat exchanger and main burner of the propane shower water heater are desinged with advanced combustion technology to decrease gas consumption and burning noise. It will help you save more when use Gasland tankless water heater.
  • 🎁【On Demand Endless Hot Water】 Maximum power output 68,000btu/hour, get instant endless hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat before using RV camping water heater. As soon as you turn on the tap, the water flow with your desired temperature. Low water pressure 3.6 PSI start up. 3.18 gallons per minute of on-demand hot water. Fully adjustable heat and water flow.
  • 🎁【Important Tips】To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. The gas water heater will "caught on fire "with improper operation. Always check gas leakage before operation.
  • 【MULTIPLE PROTECTIONS】:Anti tilt protection, if the appliance doesn’t hang vertically, the flame goes out accidentally, this portable propane water heater will automatically shut off the gas supply to keep safe and protect the unit itself. Anti-freezing protection, the drain plug can discharge the residual water inside to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time idle. High temperature protection, if water temperature over 167 °F, the unit will shut down automaticlly.
  • 【PUMP KIT INCLUDED】: Propane water heater size,17.3”*11.8”*5.3”, net weight: only 12 lb, comes with the 12V 1.2 GPM water pump kit,this portable tankless water heater can bring an instant hot water shower anytime anywhere for you, like camping with your family, off-grid cabins, horse trailers, stables or simply rinsing off by the pool. Besides, you also can wash your pets outdoor with this propane water heater.
  • 【CONVINENT DESIGN】The showerhead pedestal can be fixed on the right side of the portable water heater. then shower head got its place to put. And the camouflage carrying bag, it's convenient for outdoor use, which can put the heater and other accessories all inside the bag, it's big enough inside and really useful.
  • 【1 YEAR GUARANTEE 】: We offer 12 months warranty. If you have further questions about the product, Please click on "Ask a question" to contact us the original manufacture quickly, any quality or ignition problems,we will help you ASAP in 24hrs.
  • 【CSA CERTIFIED】:The gas quick fittings-CSA approved, to make sure no gas leaks risk when connection and simplify the connection without tools, install by one hand.
  • 【PURE COOPPER HEAT EXCHANGER】: Healthy & environmental with high quality 99.9% pure copper heat exchanger built-in, fewer impurities for output hot water, and no industrial pollution make the production process more environmental.
  • 【QUICK CONNECT GAS INLET】: Easy to install gas pipe by one hand, with more safety for preventing any gas danger at the same time. And its compact size and folding handle allow for convenience to carry. With the portable handle, you can hang it into a hook or be using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the gas water heater. Install it in a few minutes.
  • 【LOW WATER PRESSURE DEMAND】:Compatible water pressure between 2.5psi~143psi, if the water pressure is not enough 2.5psi,the water heater will activate the low water flow protection, prevent the heater keep still heating without water flowing in. If not sure the water pressure is enough, please set the water knob at Min for ignition.
  • 3.0 PSI Water Pressure Startup -Equipped with a magnetic water flow sensor, the tankless water heater can be widely applied for rural areas, RV's and Boats.The tankless propane water heater lights when water pressure between 3.0-110 PSI, low water pressure is perfect for campings and remote cabins.
  • Instant Hot Water- Maximum power output 28,000btu/hour, you can get 1.32 gallons instant endless hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat before operating the tankless water heater. As soon as you turn on the tap, the water flows with your desired temperature.
  • CSA Safety Standard -CSA safety standard approved portable tankless water heater,flame failure device, anti-freezing protection, over heating protection to ensure the family safety. Automatically decrease water pressure between 3.0-110 PSI. The anti-freezing drain plug can discharge the residual water to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time no use. The water heater will shut off automatically when high water temperature protection over 176 °F.
  • Lightweight Portable Design-Compact size weights 10 lbs with portable handle for easily carry. Hang it using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the gas water heater. It only takes you a 15 minutes to install the propane water heater.
  • Important Tips -To avoid gas leakage caused by improper sealing of the water heater, DO NOT TWINE TEFLON TAPE between gas regulator and gas inlet pipe. The tankless water heater will "caught on fire "with improper operation. Always check gas leakage before operation.
  • 【CSA CERTIFIED】:The gas quick fittings-CSA approved, to make sure no gas leaks risk when connection and simplify the connection without tools, install by one hand.
  • 【MULTIPLE PROTECTIONS】:HOTaitai propane tankless water heater can automatically shuts off gas supply when flame goes out accidentally and ignition is unsuccessful. Anti-freezing protection, the drain plug can discharge the residual water inside to avoid freezing in cold areas or in case of long time idle. This portable water heater has high temperature protection, if water temperature over 167 °F, the unit will shut down automaticlly.
  • 【QUICK CONNECT GAS INLET】: Easy to install gas pipe by one hand, with more safety for preventing any gas danger at the same time. And this portable propane water heater has compact size and folding handle allow for convenience to carry. With the portable handle, you can hanging it vertically into a hook or using the mounting bracket on the top/back of the gas water heater.
  • 【LIGHTWEIGHT PORTABLE BODY】: Body size of this outdoor tankless water heater: 17.3”*11.8”*5.3”, net weight: only 12 lb! And this 1.58 GPM portable tankless water can bring instant hot water for you when you are camping with your family, off-grid cabins, boating, horse trailers, stables or simply rinsing off by the pool. Also, you can wash your pets outdoor with this 1.58 GPM portable tankless water heater.
  • 【ON DEMAND HOT WATER 】: HOTataitai portable tankless water heater can delivers 41,000 BTU per hour at high output setting.Its maximum temperature rise is 167℉(75℃), and this portable water heater can supply instant hot water easily wherever you are. No need to preheat, no need to wait. As soon as you turn on the switch on the shower rose or tap, the water will flow with your desired temperature. Fully adjustable heat and water flow.

What to Look For in a best camping hot water system?

The best camping hot water system is a product type that many customers feel hesitant to select because of the challenges in evaluating its features. It comes to trust! When studying a significant purchase, many factors must be considered. Our best camping hot water system knowledge will help you make an ideal decision.

Our article here will highlight some outstanding items and provide solutions to FAQs and guides to buying. You should keep in mind some main criteria of best camping hot water system below:

Flow Rate

Some gravity-powered camping showers can be carried on backpacking trips, but others are large enough that they may need to be combined with a tent. Before you commit to buying a camping shower, think about how much storage space your car or backpack can accommodate.

Packed Size

Some gravity-powered camping showers can be carried on backpacking trips, but others are large enough that they may need to be combined with a tent. Before you commit to buying a camping shower, think about how much storage space your car or backpack can accommodate.

Solar Vs Battery Heated

Solar-heated camping showers are lighter and more portable than traditional ones. However, you will need to prepare a little ahead to make sure the water bag is filled up and kept in sunlight to get a warm shower.
You won't need to bring five to ten liters of extra water if you are on a thru-hike. You won't be able heat your water if you are on a cloudy day.
Check whether hot water can be added directly to your camping shower bag before you buy it. If the bag can handle heat, it is possible to heat the water on your camping stove to get a hot shower.
A battery-heated camp shower has the advantage that it doesn't require you to prepare water, or heat the bag. However, these showers can be heavier and more costly than regular camping ones. This type of shower works best for RV camping or car camping.

Gravity Vs. Pressure

A camp shower should move water rapidly through its thin neck so it can spray on both sides. This can be done either by gravity or internal pressure. The camp showers that depend on gravity must be raised before being used. This can either be done in a tree, or by another method. Water is released when the nozzle opens. Normaly gravity gives you enough velocity for your body to be rinsed fairly well. But don't forget to wash your hair.

Camp showers can use both internal pressure and external pressure to force water through the nozzle. Human-generated pressure is the first. This happens by pushing air into the water chamber, which builds enough pressure to cause the water to shoot out at the end of the nozzle, often at a high velocity. Although this creates a similar amount of pressure as a standard shower head, it is necessary to pump the water occasionally for human-powered camping showers to maintain their pressure.

Others camp showers use internal battery to pump water through the nozzle. These batteries must be recharged regularly to allow for continued use at home, or by using one of our best camping power banks.

Capacity

Camping showers typically hold two to three gallons. This is enough for two people to take a short, three-minute bath. It may make sense to purchase additional camp showers for larger groups, such as four-person or more.

Price

Your budget could be the most important factor in deciding which camping shower to buy. The cost of camping showers is affected by all the factors mentioned above. However, quality usually means a higher price.

There are many products that can clean your skin, and they are affordable. If you have a limited budget, gravity showers may also work as dry bags.

If you are looking to rent a shower at your campsite for the whole summer or for long trips, then a higher-priced shower is a good option. This will not only save time, but also make it more comfortable and last longer.

FAQs

What Leave No Trace Principles To Apply To Camp Showers?

To minimize disturbance to the environment, you should camp in the backcountry on either a backpacking or dispersed trip. This means that your campsite shower should be at least 200 feet from all water sources. Some recommend going as high as 300 feet. It is not necessary to use soap. Campers and backpackers generally agree that it is unnecessary. To make your shower more pleasant, you can use a camping towel or bandana to apply the soap and then wipe off with a clean cloth. It is important to make sure that no water from your shower reaches another source. However, a soap that biodegrades can help reduce the environmental impact.

Should You Get A Pressurized Or A Gravity-fed Camp Shower?

It all depends on where you are traveling. Although gravity showers will be more affordable, you may not always have the opportunity to hang them up. Backpackers should not consider using pressurized showers as they are heavier and more difficult to carry.

How Do I Use A Portable Shower?

The type of shower you use will affect how it works. You use a camp shower for your hygiene while out in the wild.
It all starts with how you set up your model. Your camping shower should be placed in a safe and clean area. Next, find reliable water sources.
You should always have plenty of supplies, whether it's in your bag or bucket.
Clean up the bathroom and make sure it looks normal. To preserve your experience, make sure you leave the surrounding areas cleaner than when you found them.

How Long Does It Take To Heat Up A Solar Shower?

The time required to heat up your solar shower will depend on the temperature of the day and how many gallons of water you have. It is best for a campsite shower to heat up in the sun for at least 3 hours before you use it. If you want to take a particularly hot shower, or if there are clouds, then allow your shower to cool down more. It's a good idea, before you shower to make sure the water isn't too warm.

How Many Gallons For A Camp Shower?

Camp showers should not hold more than five gallons at a time. It is enough to provide a decent shower for most campers before they run out. You can shower for as little as three to four gallons if you are more efficient.
Hang bags come in sizes ranging from 2-5 gallons. They are often measured in Liters. It is difficult to store more than five gallons in a bag because of the heavy weight.
Even though five gallons may not sound like much, it is possible to get an amazing shower without running out.

How Long Does A Camping Shower Last?

A camping shower can last approximately seven minutes depending on its flow rate and capacity. This is enough time to use two showers.

In short, the list of best camping hot water system would be updated when the data is upgraded and available. Please visit our website frequently to get the latest updates.

Our staff team is always available and ready to support you with your complex problems. Try to contact us as soon as possible whenever your product obstacles come up. Feel free for that!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio