When you’re deep in the backcountry after a long day of wheeling, nothing beats a hot shower. But if you’ve ever tried to build your own DIY off-road shower, you know it’s not as simple as it sounds. From sourcing the right parts to ensuring consistent water pressure and heating, a homemade setup can be more hassle than it’s worth. That’s where the TrailWash system, paired with a Camplux heater, provides the perfect solution. It offers a tried-and-tested system that eliminates the guesswork and frustration of a DIY build while maximizing efficiency in the field.
The DIY Dilemma: Building Your Own Off-Road Shower
Many people attempt to build their own off-road showers to save money or customize their setup. However, DIY showers come with a few major challenges:
- Water Pressure Issues: Many DIY setups rely on gravity-fed water, which can result in weak water flow. A pump can be added, but it requires proper wiring and mounting, adding to the complexity.
- Heating Complications: Built-in heating options require power sources and can take time to heat up. Many portable water heaters also require proper ventilation and must be carefully secured to prevent leaks and fire hazards.
- Complex Installations: A fully custom system means dealing with plumbing, mounting, and securing components. Leaky connections and poor water flow are common problems if the right fittings aren’t used.
- Durability Concerns: Many homemade solutions fail over time due to leaks, breakages, or inadequate materials. Cheap hoses crack, plastic fittings weaken, and unsecured tanks can shift during rough terrain.
While some DIY setups work in a pinch, they often require constant tweaking and maintenance—something you don’t want to deal with on the trail. Keep in mind, we are huge advocates for DIY as this is how we started TrailWash. We spent the time sourcing all the best parts due to those deficiencies, hell, we even have a full parts list of what we use so you can make it on your own and a YouTube video on how to do it! However, for those who want a turn-key system that’s been thoroughly tested in real off-road conditions, TrailWash is the superior choice.
Why TrailWash + Camplux is the Best Hot Water Setup
TrailWash is designed with simplicity and durability in mind. When paired with a Camplux heater, it delivers a high-quality, reliable hot water experience without the headaches.
1. Reliable Water Pressure
Unlike gravity-fed DIY setups, TrailWash provides consistent water flow with an integrated pump system. This ensures a steady and strong stream, making showers, dishwashing, and cleanups easier and more effective. The pump is designed to maintain optimal pressure with low flow, ensuring reliability in all conditions.
2. Instant Hot Water Without the Hassle
Built-in water heaters in some shower systems require power and take time to warm up. When paired with a Camplux heater, you get instant hot water, and it can run off a propane tank, making it more versatile for long trips. The Camplux heater also offers adjustable temperature control, so you’re not stuck with just lukewarm water or burning hot temperatures—you get the perfect shower temperature every time.
3. Easy Setup with No Guesswork
A DIY setup means hunting for compatible parts, troubleshooting pressure issues, and figuring out mounting solutions. With TrailWash, everything is designed to work seamlessly. No need for trial-and-error setups or last-minute part swaps in the middle of nowhere.
4. Built Tough for the Trail
Many DIY showers rely on plastic containers, PVC pipes, or cheap fittings that break under extreme conditions. TrailWash is built for off-road use, ensuring it withstands rugged environments without failure. The robust materials used in the system mean it can handle high heat, freezing conditions, and heavy vibrations without degrading. Plus, its secure mounting options prevent shifting or leaks when tackling tough terrain.
The Verdict: DIY or Go with TrailWash?
If you’re a hardcore DIYer who enjoys troubleshooting and experimenting, building your own 1 of 1 off-road shower might be an interesting project. But if you want a reliable, durable, and easy-to-use hot water system, TrailWash with a Camplux heater is hands-down the better choice. You’ll spend less time fixing problems, less time setting up and more time enjoying your adventure. Plus, it’s backed by real-world testing, ensuring it performs in the harshest off-road conditions.
Upgrade your off-road shower game today—TrailWash + Camplux is the ultimate solution for overlanders, adventure seekers, and homesteaders who demand convenience, durability, and performance.