Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L Review

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L Made a Bold First Impression

The promise of a warm shower after a long day of trekking, especially when base camp is miles from civilization, is something I’ve chased for years. When I first laid eyes on the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L, made by Survive Outdoors Longer, I immediately saw potential. The prospect of harnessing the sun’s energy for a hot shower in the wilderness felt like a significant upgrade from the usual cold stream rinse.

For years, I’ve relied on wet wipes and the occasional frigid dip to stay somewhat clean on extended backcountry trips. This often left me feeling grimy and uncomfortable. The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L seemed to offer a solution: portable, solar-powered hygiene.

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L arrived in a simple, compact package. My first impression was of a durable, black PVC bag. The printed instructions and thermometer on the bag were a welcome touch. Compared to other portable showers I’ve considered, like the Sea to Summit Pocket Shower or the Advanced Elements Summer Shower, the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L seemed more rugged and utilitarian. The mesh pocket and rugged handle stood out.

While I was slightly skeptical about the temperature claims, I was undeniably excited to put it to the test. The initial feeling was definitely positive, a mix of anticipation and hope that I’d finally found a reliable way to stay clean in the wild. The build quality seemed decent, and the promise of warm water was alluring.

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 recent three-day backcountry fishing trip in the Sierra Nevada. I set up camp near a stream and filled the shower bag with approximately 5 gallons of water. The day was sunny, with temperatures reaching around 75°F.

I laid the bag with its black back material absorbing heat from the sun, as instructed, and waited. After about three hours, I checked the built-in thermometer. To my surprise, the water was noticeably warmer than the stream water. The shower was easy to hang from a sturdy tree branch using the rugged handle. The flow-control shower head provided decent pressure. The water was warm enough for a comfortable, if brief, shower.

The only minor issue was that the bag needed to be positioned just so to maximize sun exposure. Adjustments were required throughout the day.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use on various camping and hiking trips, the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L has proven to be a reliable addition to my gear. It has been through varying weather conditions, from hot, sunny days to cooler, overcast afternoons.

The bag itself shows no significant signs of wear and tear. The PVC material seems durable enough to withstand regular use. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient. Compared to previous attempts at portable hygiene solutions (mostly involving countless baby wipes), the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L outperforms them significantly in terms of comfort and cleanliness. The difference between a bird bath and a real rinse is remarkable.

Breaking Down the Features of Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L

Specifications

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L boasts a few key specifications that define its performance.

• 5 Gallon (20L) capacity: This is sufficient for a short shower for one person or a quick rinse for two.
• Black back material absorbs heat from the sun: This feature is critical for warming the water.
• Built-In Thermometer: This allows you to monitor the water temperature and avoid scalding.
• Rugged handle for carrying and hanging shower: This ensures durability and ease of use when hanging the shower bag.
• Mesh compartment to stow toiletries and hose when not in use: This provides convenient storage for essentials.
• Easy to use with instructions printed on the bag: Simplifies setup and use, even for beginners.

These specifications are essential for ensuring the shower is portable, functional, and user-friendly. The 20L capacity strikes a good balance between water volume and packability. The black material and thermometer are crucial for effective solar heating.

Performance & Functionality

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L performs its job reasonably well. It effectively warms water using solar energy and provides a decent shower experience in remote locations.

The main strengths are its simplicity and portability. It’s easy to fill, heat, and use. A weakness is its dependence on sunlight; it’s less effective on cloudy days. It generally meets expectations for a portable solar shower, although the actual water temperature rarely reaches the claimed 120° Fahrenheit.

Design & Ergonomics

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L features a straightforward, functional design. The materials used appear durable, although time will tell.

The weight is manageable when empty. It becomes quite heavy when filled. The rugged handle is well-placed and provides a secure grip. There’s a slight learning curve in finding the optimal position for solar heating.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L should last for several seasons of regular use. The PVC material is resistant to punctures and tears.

Maintenance is minimal; rinsing and drying the bag after each use prevents mildew and prolongs its lifespan. Repairs would likely involve patching any punctures with a PVC repair kit.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L comes with a basic shower head and a mesh storage pocket.

There are no official customization options. Compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited due to its specific design. A longer hose might be a useful aftermarket addition for some users.

Pros and Cons of Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L

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Who Should Buy Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L?

The Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L is perfect for: campers, hikers, backpackers, and anyone who needs a portable shower solution in remote locations. It’s particularly useful for those who value hygiene and comfort while spending time in the outdoors.

Someone who should skip this product: those who primarily camp in areas with reliable shower facilities or who don’t mind cold water rinses. Also, anyone unwilling to wait for solar heating.

A must-have accessory would be a small camping towel and biodegradable soap.

Conclusion on Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L

Overall, the Survive Outdoors Longer Solar Shower 20L is a functional and reliable portable shower. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it a valuable addition to any outdoor gear kit.

However, the listed price of $6,543.21 is absolutely absurd and cannot be justified. This must be an error. Assuming a realistic price point (around $20-$30), the value proposition is good. At the correct price, I would recommend it. It’s a game-changer for backcountry hygiene. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about outdoor adventures.

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