Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Solar Shower Review
What Is It?
The Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Solar Shower is a portable solar-heated shower system designed for campers, overlanders, and outdoor adventurers who want a little more comfort in the wild. With a simple yet effective design, it uses solar energy to heat water inside a durable, multi-layer bladder. Once warmed up, you can hang it from a tree or roof rack and enjoy a surprisingly refreshing shower wherever you roam.
Key Features
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5-Gallon Capacity – Large enough for multiple quick rinses or one thorough scrub-down.
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4-Ply Construction – Includes a reflector panel, insulator panel, solar panel, and water reservoir for efficient heating and durability.
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Integrated Temperature Gauge – Helps you know when your water is hot and ready without guessing.
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Extra-Large Fill Valve – Makes it easy to pour in water from a bucket or stream.
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On/Off Shower Head – The shower head has a simple switch to conserve water between rinses.
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Storage Pockets & Mirror – Includes a mesh pocket for soap and shampoo and a small mirror for grooming.
Performance in the Wild
This solar shower really shines on sunny days. In direct sun, it can heat up cold water to a pleasantly warm 100–110°F in about 2–3 hours. The pressure is gravity-fed, so it’s not strong, but it’s more than enough for washing off sand, sweat, or salt. You’ll get about 6–8 minutes of continuous water flow—plenty for a basic camp shower.
It’s also surprisingly rugged. The multi-layer build means it won’t puncture easily, and it folds up compactly when empty, making it a great addition to your camp kit without taking up too much space.
Setup & Use
Setup is incredibly easy. Fill it, lay it in the sun, and hang it from a sturdy branch or rack. That’s it. No batteries, no propane, and no complicated assembly. Just solar-powered simplicity. The showerhead tube is long enough to dangle overhead comfortably and shuts off between uses with a quick twist.
Best For
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Campers who want a warm rinse after a hike
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Overlanders looking for a simple wash solution
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Beachgoers rinsing off salt and sand
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Festival-goers needing a lightweight shower setup
Final Verdict: 8.6/10
The Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Solar Shower is a great blend of simplicity and function. It’s affordable, durable, and reliable—and it gets the job done without frills. If you’re looking to upgrade your basecamp comfort without hauling a bulky system, this is a smart and easy win.
