First Thoughts on the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L
The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L promises a touch of civilization in the wild. Manufactured by Survive Outdoors Longer, this portable shower aims to provide a convenient and eco-friendly way to rinse off after outdoor adventures. Its promise of solar-heated water, packable design, and integrated features instantly caught my attention.
I’ve always sought ways to improve hygiene during extended trips. The typical options of baby wipes or cold stream dips never quite cut it, especially after days of hiking or hunting. The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L offered the potential for a genuinely refreshing experience without the weight and bulk of traditional camping showers.
Upon unboxing, the shower bag felt surprisingly lightweight and packable. The black material felt durable enough for basic use. The printed instructions and thermometer directly on the bag are a nice touch, conveying a sense of user-friendliness.
I considered other portable shower options before settling on this one. Some were smaller, prioritizing portability above all else, while others involved pump systems that seemed bulky and prone to failure. The simplicity of the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L, combined with its advertised capacity, made it seem like the right balance.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of skepticism. Could this simple bag actually deliver warm water and a decent shower experience? I was eager to put it to the test and see if it could live up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L came during a week-long backcountry camping trip. I was near a stream, so filling the bag was easy. I positioned the bag with the black side facing the sun against a rock.
The instructions printed on the bag were indeed helpful. The built-in thermometer, although small, did provide a visual indication of the water temperature rise. After about three hours in direct sunlight, the thermometer indicated the water had reached a comfortably warm temperature.
Hanging the shower bag from a sturdy tree branch using the rugged handle and buckle was simple. The flow-control shower head provided a surprisingly decent spray. However, the water pressure decreased significantly as the water level dropped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use during various camping and fishing trips, the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L has held up reasonably well. There are no major signs of wear and tear, despite being packed and unpacked multiple times. The black material has proven to be fairly resilient to scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning the shower bag is straightforward; simply rinsing it out with fresh water and letting it air dry is sufficient. Storing it rolled up in its mesh compartment keeps it compact and prevents any mildew buildup. Regular use requires careful handling of the hanging strap.
Compared to past experiences with improvised rinsing methods, the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L is a significant upgrade. It offers a far more convenient and enjoyable way to maintain hygiene in the outdoors. It provides warm water on sunny days, something a cold stream can’t offer.
Breaking Down the Features of Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L
Specifications
The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L features a 5-Gallon (20L) capacity. The black back material is designed to absorb heat from the sun, warming the water up to 120° Fahrenheit. A built-in thermometer provides an indication of water temperature.
It also features a rugged handle for carrying and hanging the shower. A mesh compartment is included to stow toiletries and the hose when not in use. The instructions are easy to use with instructions printed on the bag. These specifications are important for judging overall portability, functionality and ease of use.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L is to provide a heated shower in the outdoors. In optimal sunny conditions, it performs this function adequately. The water heats up within a few hours, and the shower head provides a usable spray.
A major strength is its simplicity and ease of use. A notable weakness is the pressure decreases with water level. Overall, it meets expectations for a basic solar shower, but it is not without limitations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L has a simple and functional design. The materials are lightweight, and the bag is relatively comfortable to carry when filled, although hanging is preferred. The build quality appears decent for the price point.
There is little to no learning curve. Filling, heating, and hanging the bag are all intuitive processes. The flow-control shower head is easy to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The bag appears reasonably durable. The primary concern would be puncture from sharp objects. Maintenance is simple, requiring only rinsing and air drying after each use.
With proper care and storage, it should last for several seasons of regular use. Avoid overfilling the shower and be careful when hanging.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L comes with a mesh compartment for toiletries. There are no other included accessories or official customization options. However, users could potentially add a longer hose for greater reach.
The product is generally not designed for customization. However, its simple design makes it compatible with generic accessories like different shower heads. Users looking for more features should consider other options, but the core design is functional and efficient.
Pros and Cons of Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L
Pros
- Lightweight and packable design makes it easy to transport.
- Simple and easy to use, with clear instructions printed on the bag.
- Built-in thermometer provides a visual indication of water temperature.
- Rugged handle and buckle for easy hanging.
- Affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
Cons
- Water pressure decreases significantly as the water level drops.
- Heating performance is dependent on sunlight.
Who Should Buy Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L?
The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and backpackers who want a simple and affordable way to rinse off in the outdoors. It is also ideal for those participating in fishing trips. It is great for anyone seeking a convenient way to clean up after outdoor activities where access to traditional showers is limited.
Those who require high water pressure or plan to camp in consistently cloudy environments should skip this product. Also, consider other options if you need a shower capable of very hot water.
A small camp towel and biodegradable soap would be must-have accessories for anyone purchasing this shower. Consider a longer hose, if the included length isn’t sufficient.
Conclusion on Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L
The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L offers a simple and affordable solution for outdoor hygiene. While it has limitations, such as dependency on sunlight and decreasing water pressure, its lightweight design and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any camping or hiking gear. Its price point makes it an excellent option.
The price is justified for the convenience and improved hygiene it provides compared to alternative methods. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a basic solar shower for casual outdoor use.
If you are seeking a simple and eco-friendly way to freshen up during your next adventure, give the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L a try! Upgrade your experience and ditch the baby wipes for a refreshing rinse.