A reliable road shower is an RV camping essential, providing a convenient way to rinse off during your trips. Picking a road shower can be tricky because you must consider everything from size and weight to performance and durability. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared the top 3 road showers available on the market.
Road Shower Comparison Table
Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the key specs of our three recommended road showers.
| Model | Yakima RoadShower 4G | Advanced Elements 5-Gal Summer Shower | NEMO Helio Pressure Shower |
|---|---|---|---|
| Image | |||
| Price | $448.95 | $35.99 | $94.34 |
| Weight (empty) | 20.30 lbs | 1.05 lbs | 1 lb |
| Materials | Welded aluminum, powder coat finish | Other (not specified) | PU-coated polyester, TPU, neoprene |
| Durability | Robust aluminum build, some accessory issues reported | Durable multi-layer design for outdoor use | High-quality, durable materials |
| Dimensions | 55.00″ L x 6.10″W x 4.75″H | 14.88 x 6.02 x 2.09 inches | 9 x 17 inches. 5.5 x 8.5 in diameter. |
| Warranty | 1-year limited | 1 year limited | NEMO Lifetime Warranty |
1. Yakima RoadShower 4G: Best High-Pressure Option
Price: $448.95
Features
The Yakima RoadShower 4G is a premium, high-capacity road shower designed for RVers who want the convenience of a built-in shower with the flexibility of a portable unit. Its key features include:
- 4-gallon welded aluminum tank with powder coat finish for durability.
- Pressurizes up to 55 psi with a pump or garden hose for high-pressure spray.
- Has a built-in thermometer stick that tracks temperature.
- 55″ hose length allows for comfortable use.
- You can pressurize with your hands or with an electric pump.
- Available in 7 and 10-gallon sizes as well.
- Has a large top cap for easy filling.
Pros
- High Pressure: Pressurizes up to 55 psi for a powerful, steady spray.
- Large Capacity: A 4-gallon tank provides ample water for showers or cleaning gear.
- Durable Construction: Welded aluminum construction and powder coat finish for long-term durability.
- Versatile Mounting: Universal hardware fits most roof racks and all crossbars by the same brand.
Cons
- Pricey: Significantly more expensive than non-pressurized options.
- Accessory Quality: Some users report issues with hose and fittings deteriorating after a few months.
- Installment: This shower requires a roof rack for installation.
Visit the official website of Yakima to learn more about the Yakima Roadshower 4G.
2. Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Summer Shower: Best Budget Pick
Price: $35.99
Features:
For RVers seeking a simple, affordable way to enjoy a warm shower outdoors, the Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Summer Shower is a top budget-friendly pick. Some of its features include:
- 5-gallon capacity is generous for a non-pressurized model.
- 2-layer construction adds to the durability of the product.
- Extra-large filling valve with a twist-off cap for easy filling and cleaning.
- Strong handle for reliable hanging and carrying.
Pros
- Affordable: One of the least expensive road showers available.
- Efficient Heating: A 2-layer design allows optimal heat retention and performance.
- Lightweight: Extremely lightweight (1.05 Lbs) and packable when not filled.
Cons
- No Pressure: Gravity-fed shower head lacks water pressure some users prefer.
- Slower Heating: Takes longer to heat than metal tanks, especially in cooler weather.
3. NEMO Helio Pressure Shower: Most Versatile Shower
Price: $94.34
Features
The NEMO Helio Pressure Shower offers a unique blend of pressure, portability, and heating efficiency in a compact, well-designed package. Some of its standout features include:
- The 2.9-gallon tank provides enough water for 5-7 minutes of steady spray.
- The foot pump pressurizes the tank; the easy-to-use on/off nozzle delivers consistent pressure.
- 7 feet neoprene hose is long enough to use as an overhead shower.
- Compact packed size (5.5″ x 8.5″); lightweight 1 lb weight.
- Reflective and insulating layers allow the tank to heat efficiently in the sun.
- PU-coated polyester, TPU, and neoprene materials are durable and repairable.
- Included ventilated carrying case; compatible with NEMO Heliopolis privacy shelter.
Pros
- Effective Pressure: Foot pump and 2.9-gal tank provide steady, satisfying spray.
- Highly Packable: Compact packed size and light weight are great for RV storage.
- Versatile Use: Long hose, spray nozzle, and easy refill are handy for showers or chores.
- Ease of Refill: You can refill it without the hose. Plus, you can warm the shower in the sun or you can directly fill it with hot water. The long hose can be used easily as an overhead shower.
- Quality Materials: Durable fabrics and NEMO lifetime warranty instill confidence.
Cons
- Capacity: 2.9 gallons is on the lower end, requiring more frequent refills.
- Setup Time: The foot pump can take a minute or two to fully pressurize the tank.
- Price: Costs more than non-pressurized models, but is a good value for the features provided.
Visit the Nemo website for more details about the Helio Pressure Shower.
Key Factors We Considered When Selecting the Best Camping Showers
Here are the important factors that we looked at while choosing the top road showers for you.
- Pressure: Water pressure matters a lot when it comes to showers. The better the pressure, the more enjoyable the experience. Pressurized models like the Yakima RoadShower and NEMO Helio provide a stronger, more consistent spray that many RVers prefer. Non-pressurized models like the Advanced Elements Summer Shower rely on gravity, resulting in a gentler flow.
- Capacity: A road shower should have a sufficient capacity for longer showers. However, its heaviness and portability should also be taken into consideration. Larger tanks like the 4-gallon Yakima and 5-gallon Advanced Elements provide more water for longer showers or cleaning tasks. Smaller tanks like the 2.9-gallon NEMO are lighter and more packable but require more frequent refills.
- Heating Efficiency: We considered how well and how quickly the shower heats water using solar energy. This determines how convenient the shower is. Metal tanks like the aluminum Yakima tend to heat faster than plastic. Clear windows and reflective backing, used in the Advanced Elements and NEMO, improve solar heating. Insulating layers help retain heat.
- Durability: Will the shower withstand regular use and exposure to outdoor elements? This is an essential factor considering the investment required. Powder-coated metal and multi-layer plastics with reinforced seams tend to hold up best. We looked for robust materials and designs as well as reports of long-term durability from users.
- Portability: Since RVers are always on the go, the portable shower should be easy to carry. Weight and packed size are important considerations for RV use, as the shower needs to be stored and carried. The NEMO Helio excels here. Lighter options are easier to hang if needed. Some models like the Yakima include mounting hardware.
- Ease of Use: Large fill openings, easy-to-use nozzles, and accessible foot pumps or fill valves make a shower simpler and quicker to use. We also considered the length of spray hoses and the inclusion of pockets or straps for soap and supplies.
Stay Clean and Fresh on the Road With Camping showers
Ultimately, the right road shower for you depends on your RV setup, your intended use, and your budget. For RVers who want a high-performing, pressurized shower and are willing to invest in a durable metal model, the Yakima RoadShower 4G is our top pick. For those seeking a highly affordable, easy-to-use option for occasional use, the Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Summer Shower offers great value. And for RVers who prioritize packability and versatility, the NEMO Helio Pressure Shower delivers a happy medium of pressure, capacity, and portability. Whichever model you choose, a road shower is an easy way to upgrade your RV shower and enjoy a hot rinse wherever you go.
