When building a camper van, one of the most debated features is whether or not to include a shower. At Roost Vans, we’ve taken a clear stance: we don’t install interior showers. Why? Because the challenges far outweigh the benefits, especially when considering the functionality, cost, space constraints and practicality of camper vans. Here’s an in-depth exploration of our reasoning and the alternative solutions we recommend.
Why We Don’t Do Showers in Vans
1. Space Constraints
Camper vans are all about maximizing a small footprint. Installing a shower requires significant infrastructure:
- Dedicated Space: An enclosed shower takes up valuable real estate, reducing the usable living or storage space.
- Visual Impact: A vertical shower wall interrupts the line of sight from one corner of the van to the other, making the space feel smaller and more cramped. At Roost Vans, we prioritize an open, uninterrupted design to maintain the feeling of spaciousness.
2. Minimal Usage
Through years of experience, we’ve found that showers in vans are rarely used. Most van owners rely on alternatives:
- Campgrounds and State Parks: These locations often have full-size, comfortable endlessly hot shower facilities.
- Natural Water Sources: Lakes, rivers, and beaches are popular for quick rinses and are very enjoyable.
- Exterior Showers: More on this below, but outdoor setups often meet the need without the drawbacks of an interior shower.
3. Infrastructure Challenges
Adding a shower means introducing complex systems that are often impractical in a van:
- Hot Water Systems: Heating water requires a substantial power source or propane setup, taking up space and adding weight. A typical 5-gallon hot water heater is bulky and only provides a short, underwhelming shower experience.
- Drainage and Graywater Tanks: A shower doesn’t necessitate a gray water system to collect runoff, but it usually is highly desired. This adds more complexity, cost, and maintenance.
- Moisture Control: Interior showers increase the risk of condensation, mold, and water damage, which are major concerns in small, enclosed spaces.
4. Cost vs. Value
The cost of adding an interior shower can easily run into the many many thousands, yet its functionality often falls short of expectations. At Roost Vans, we believe in investing those resources into features that provide greater long-term value, such as high-quality cabinetry, bed systems, or advanced power setups.
The Roost Vans Alternative: Exterior Showers
While we don’t install interior showers, we do offer a modular and practical solution: an exterior shower system.
How It Works
- Water Tank: A 20-gallon over-the-wheel-well water tank that also supplies water to the interior sink.
- Spray Port: The tank includes a spray port for versatile use—rinse off surfboards, bikes, pets, or muddy boots.
- Hot Water Setup: For a full shower experience, we add an inline propane-powered hot water heater with showerhead and curtain for privacy.
Benefits of the Exterior Shower
- Compact and Flexible: Takes up minimal space inside the van while offering maximum functionality.
- Multi-Use System: The water tank serves both the sink and shower, maximizing utility.
- Efficient: Uses propane and water sparingly, making it ideal for off-grid camping.
- Practical Application: Perfect for rinsing off after a day at the beach, mountain biking, or other outdoor activities.
When an Interior Shower Might Make Sense
If you’re absolutely set on an interior shower, we recommend considering the Tetravan Folding Shower System. It’s one of the most innovative designs we’ve seen, offering a compact, fold-away solution. However, even with this option, there are still challenges with heating water and storing sufficient water for a satisfying shower.
Our Philosophy on Camper Vans
At Roost Vans, our design philosophy is rooted in practicality and efficiency. Camper vans are not RVs, and we aim to create functional, adventure-ready spaces that prioritize usability over unnecessary features. By omitting interior showers, we ensure that our vans:
- Remain open and spacious.
- Avoid unnecessary complexity and maintenance issues.
- Deliver better value for your investment.
The Final Word on Showers in Vans
While the idea of a shower in your van may sound appealing, the reality often proves less glamorous. Instead of dedicating space and budget to an underused feature, consider the versatility and practicality of an exterior shower system. It’s efficient, flexible, and perfectly suited to the van life lifestyle.
Ready to build your dream van? Contact us or visit roostvans.com to learn more about our designs and solutions tailored to your adventure.