How I Actually Shower on the Road (The Truth About Van Life Hygiene)
If you scroll through Instagram, you’d think every vanlifer showers out the back doors of their rig while overlooking a canyon at sunset. 🚿
That is the aesthetic. It is rarely the reality.
One of the first questions I get from women preparing to launch is: "But how do you shower?" There is a fear that living in a van means being permanently dirty.
I’m here to tell you: Hygiene is non-negotiable. You do not have to sacrifice feeling fresh just because you live in 40 square feet. But you do have to change your routine.
Here are the practical systems I use to stay clean on the road (and how I handle it with my dog, Henry).
The "Full Shower" Options
1. Community Recreation Centers (My Top Pick) While many vanlifers swear by gyms, I prefer local Rec Centers.
The Cost: Affordable day passes usually range from $3 to $10.
The Vibe: They are community-oriented and often feel safer and friendlier than a 24-hour gym.
The "Henry" Factor: Because I travel with my dog, Henry, I hate leaving him alone in the van for long periods. Rec Centers feel safer for a quick stop, though I do wish I could use the pools without worrying about him!
2. Truck Stops (The "Luxurious" Treat) When I took my first road trip in 2018, I avoided truck stops like the plague. I imagined they were dirty, gross, and filled with "creepy" characters.
The Reality: I was pleasantly shocked. Places like Love’s or Pilot Flying J often have showers that feel luxurious—unlimited hot water, great pressure, and cleaner than many hotels.
The Pet Tip: Here is the best part—I take Henry in with me! The private shower suites are large enough that he sits comfortably on his own towel while I shower. I never have to worry about leaving him behind.
The Cost: It’s pricey (around $16–$20 now), so I use this as a "treat" when I really need a deep reset.
3. Gym Memberships (Popular, but not for me) You will hear everyone talk about Planet Fitness. While the Black Card (around $29.99/mo) is a great deal for nationwide access, I personally don't have a membership.
Why? It feels too expensive for how often I'd use it, and again—I don't feel comfortable leaving Henry in the vehicle at busy gym parking lots. But if you are traveling pet-free, this is still the gold standard for many nomads.
The "In-Between" Days (My Primary Method)
Let’s be real: You won't take a full shower every single day. Most days, I stick to a "Bird Bath" or a wipe-down.
1. The "Bird Bath" A washcloth, warm water from the kettle, and a little soap at the van sink is often all you need to feel human again. It saves water and gets the job done.
2. The Wipe-Down (Product Recommendations) When water isn't an option, having the right products matters.
Scrubzz Disposable No-Rinse Wipes: These are amazing—you just dampen them, lather up, and dry off. No rinsing required.
Duke Cannon Cold Shower Field Towels: These are cooling and absolutely critical when you are traveling in hot weather.
Lume: My go-to deodorant for staying fresh longer between washes.
The "Gadgets" (Cool, but Optional)
1. The Weed Sprayer Hack I haven't used this personally yet, but it is the ultimate "Function over Fashion" hack. You can buy a garden sprayer at a hardware store for $15, paint it black to absorb solar heat, and pump it up for a pressurized shower.
2. The Geyser System I admit, I’m a sucker for cool new systems. The Geyser Portable Shower uses very little water (less than a gallon) and is a great piece of gear if you have the budget, but definitely not a "have to have" to get started.
The Bottom Line
How long you go without a shower is a personal preference. Whether you love the convenience of a Rec Center or the simplicity of a Bird Bath, find the system that makes you feel confident.
Want to see exactly what I use? 🛒 Shop my Hygiene Favorites on Amazon: My Amazon List
📺 Watch my full breakdown of shower options here: YouTube Video
