Exploring Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is an adventure that promises vast, open spaces, fewer crowds, and the freedom to roam and camp almost anywhere. However, this freedom also comes with the challenge of staying clean and refreshed during your outdoor excursions. In this blog, we'll explore how to shower on BLM land, ensuring you stay fresh and comfortable while respecting the environment.
Embracing the Freedom of BLM Land
BLM land offers some of the most diverse and pristine landscapes in the United States. From the arid deserts of the Southwest to the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, these lands provide countless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, and off-roading. One of the biggest perks of BLM land is the ability to engage in dispersed camping, which allows you to set up camp virtually anywhere, away from developed campgrounds and facilities. This freedom, while exhilarating, requires a bit of extra preparation, especially when it comes to maintaining personal hygiene.
The Importance of Staying Clean in the Outdoors
Maintaining personal hygiene is crucial, not just for your comfort, but also for your health and well-being. Regular cleaning helps prevent skin irritations, infections, and other health issues that can arise from prolonged exposure to dirt, sweat, and bacteria. Additionally, staying clean can make your outdoor experience more enjoyable, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature without the distraction of feeling dirty or uncomfortable.
Tips for Showering on BLM Land
Showering on BLM land may seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a straightforward and even enjoyable part of your outdoor adventure. Here are some tips to help you stay fresh and clean:
- Bring Enough Water: Water is a precious resource when camping on BLM land, especially in arid regions where natural water sources may be scarce. Make sure to bring enough water not only for drinking and cooking but also for personal hygiene. Depending on your duration of stay and level of activity, plan for a few extra gallons of water solely for washing.
- Camp Near a Water Source: If possible, set up camp near a natural water source such as a river, stream, or lake. This allows you to use the water for bathing (if permitted) and reduces the amount of water you need to carry with you. Always check local regulations regarding the use of natural water sources for bathing.
- Use Biodegradable Soap: Protect the environment by using biodegradable soap for all your washing needs. Regular soap can harm the ecosystem, especially when used near water sources. Biodegradable soap breaks down naturally and reduces the impact on the environment.
- Consider Solar Showers: Solar showers are an excellent option for showering on BLM land. These bags are filled with water and left in the sun to heat up, providing a warm shower without the need for fuel or electricity. They are lightweight, easy to use, and can be hung from a tree or vehicle for convenient showering.
- Create a Shower Privacy Shelter: For added comfort and privacy, consider bringing a portable shower shelter. These tents are easy to set up and provide a private space for showering, changing clothes, and even using a portable toilet.
- Respect Water Usage: When showering, be mindful of your water usage. Take quick, efficient showers to conserve water, and always be aware of local regulations regarding water use and disposal.
- Dispose of Wastewater Properly: Never dispose of soapy water directly into natural water sources. Instead, use a designated wash basin to collect wastewater and dispose of it at least 200 feet away from any water source. This helps protect the environment and keeps water sources clean.
- Portable Shower Solutions: Invest in a portable shower system that is easy to transport and use. Portable showers come in various designs, from simple gravity-fed bags to more advanced pressurized systems. Choose one that fits your needs and is convenient to use in remote locations.
What To Look For in a Portable Shower
When choosing a portable shower for dispersed camping, several key aspects should be considered to ensure you select one that meets your needs effectively.
Pressurization Method
The method of pressurization is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a portable shower. There are several types of pressurization methods available, each with its own benefits and drawbacks:
- Gravity-Fed Showers: These are the simplest type of portable showers. You hang the water container above your head, and gravity does the rest. While they are easy to use and do not require any power, the water pressure can be low and inconsistent.
- Pump Showers: These use either a foot pump or hand pump to build up pressure in the water container. They provide better water pressure compared to gravity-fed showers but require manual effort to maintain pressure.
- Battery-Powered Showers: These are equipped with a battery-operated pump that provides consistent and high water pressure with minimal effort. While they are more expensive and require charging, they offer superior convenience and performance.
Capacity
The water capacity of the portable shower determines how long you can shower before needing to refill. For dispersed camping, where water sources might not be readily available, having a larger capacity can be advantageous. Portable showers typically come in capacities ranging from 2 to 5 gallons:
- 2-3 Gallons: Suitable for quick rinses or shorter showers. These are lightweight and easy to transport but might require frequent refills.
- 4-5 Gallons: Provide enough water for a more thorough shower or multiple short uses. They are bulkier but reduce the need for frequent refilling.
Ease of Use
When you’re out in the wilderness, the last thing you want is a complicated setup process for your shower. Look for portable showers that are user-friendly and have features that make them easy to set up and operate:
- Simple Setup: The shower should be quick to assemble and disassemble. Features like quick-connect hoses and easy-fill caps can significantly enhance usability.
- Intuitive Controls: Controls for turning the shower on and off or adjusting the spray settings should be straightforward and easy to operate, even with wet or dirty hands.
Durability
Durability is essential when selecting a portable shower for camping. The unit must be able to withstand rough handling and various environmental conditions:
- Materials: High-quality materials like UV-protected high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or military-grade materials ensure the shower can handle the rigors of outdoor use.
- Build Quality: Look for reinforced seams, sturdy hoses, and robust connectors that can endure repeated use and transport without breaking down.
Portability
Given that you’ll need to transport your portable shower to your camping site, portability is another important factor:
- Weight: Ensure the shower is lightweight enough to carry, especially when filled with water. Some showers are designed to be compact and come with carrying handles or straps for easier transport.
- Size: The dimensions of the shower should be compact enough to fit in your camping gear without taking up too much space.
Heating Capability
Having warm water can make your showering experience much more pleasant, especially in colder climates. Some portable showers come with heating options:
- Solar Heating: Some models use solar energy to heat the water in the tank. This method is environmentally friendly but dependent on sunlight and can be slow.
- Electric or Propane Heaters: More advanced showers might come with built-in or compatible heaters that can quickly heat the water. These provide instant hot water but require a power source or propane.
Why RinseKit is the Ultimate Choice
When it comes to choosing a portable shower for using on dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, RinseKit stands out as the superior choice, offering a range of features and benefits that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. Let’s delve into how RinseKit excels in each of the key aspects to consider when choosing a portable shower.
Pressurization Method
RinseKit models are equipped with advanced battery-powered pressurization systems, providing a consistent and strong water pressure at the push of a button. Unlike gravity-fed or manual pump showers, RinseKit’s battery-operated pump ensures a steady flow of water without the need for manual effort. This means you can enjoy a powerful and refreshing shower even in the remotest locations.
- Battery Powered Pressurization: RinseKit’s battery-powered system offers up to 50 PSI of continuous pressure, far surpassing the capabilities of gravity-fed or hand-pumped showers. This feature is particularly beneficial when you need to wash off dirt and grime effectively after a day of hiking or other outdoor activities.
Capacity
RinseKit offers models with varying capacities to suit different needs:
- RinseKit PRO: This model has a 3.5-gallon capacity, providing up to 7.5 minutes of continuous spray. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a portable shower with ample water storage without being overly bulky.
- RinseKit Cube: With a 4-gallon capacity, the Cube offers up to 8 minutes of spray time, making it perfect for longer showers or multiple uses before needing a refill.
- RinseKit Rack Shower: Boasting a 5-gallon capacity, this model is ideal for extended trips or group camping, ensuring you have plenty of water for all your hygiene needs.
Ease of Use
RinseKit is designed with user convenience in mind, ensuring a hassle-free experience even in the wilderness:
- Simple Setup: All RinseKit models feature an easy-fill top cap, allowing you to quickly and efficiently fill the tank from any water source. The intuitive controls and push-button operation make it simple to use, even when your hands are dirty or wet.
- Quick Assembly: There’s no complex assembly required. Just fill, press the power button, and start showering.
Durability
Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, RinseKit showers are constructed with high-quality, durable materials:
- Military-Grade Materials: The RinseKit Cube and Rack Shower are made from military-grade high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ensuring they can handle rough handling and extreme conditions.
- Sturdy Build: With features like stainless steel tie-downs and UV-protected materials, RinseKit showers are built to last, providing reliable performance on all your camping adventures.
Portability
RinseKit showers are designed to be portable and easy to carry, making them perfect for dispersed camping:
- Compact and Lightweight: Despite their robust construction and large capacities, RinseKit showers are surprisingly compact and easy to transport. The RinseKit Cube, for instance, weighs just 15 pounds when empty and has convenient carrying handles.
- Ergonomic Design: The design of RinseKit models ensures they are easy to store and carry, fitting neatly into your camping gear without taking up excessive space.
Heating Capability
RinseKit offers several options for heating water, ensuring you can enjoy a warm shower no matter where you are:
- Solar Heating: While RinseKit units do not have built-in solar heating, the black HDPE material absorbs heat from sunlight, gradually warming the water.
- Portable Heaters: For instant hot water, RinseKit offers accessories like the HyperHeater, which can heat water up to 110°F in less than 30 seconds using propane, and the PRO Immersion Heater, which heats water using a vehicle’s power source.
Additional Features
RinseKit showers come with a range of features that enhance their functionality and convenience:
- Multiple Spray Settings: The 5-setting spray nozzle allows you to adjust the water flow to your preference, whether you need a gentle mist or a powerful jet.
- On-The-Go Power: RinseKit models include USB and 12-volt ports, enabling you to charge your devices while on the go.
- Water Filtration: While RinseKit doesn’t come with built-in water filters, the easy-fill cap allows you to use filtered water if needed, ensuring clean and safe water for your showers.
In conclusion, RinseKit’s innovative features and robust design make it the superior choice for dispersed camping. Its powerful battery-powered pressurization, large capacity, ease of use, and durability set it apart from other portable showers, ensuring you have the best possible experience in the great outdoors.
