Boondockers don’t shower? Is it true?
There’s a belief that boondockers don’t shower for several days. They wear the same clothes day after day, and get dusty and muddy and sweaty.
Well, generally… yes.
However, it’s really because they don’t like the public pressure of showering and changing clothes everyday. They still know their limits and comforts on personal hygiene. They’re not generally dirty and smelly people.
Boondocking to Conserve Water
Boondockers love to make their water tanks and sewage tanks last as long as possible. The longer they can remain camped without moving their RV to dump tanks and refill, the better. Boondockers with smaller tanks take fewer showers. Those with larger tanks, shower more frequently.
Boondockers Still Take Showers
The act of boondocking itself doesn’t force someone to forego showering. There are also many more boondockers who do shower everyday, and wear a clean set of clothes every day. It depends on each person’s comfort level.
What About Dust, Mud, and Sweat?
People who boondock more often do so because they love being outdoors. That being said, they tend to get dirty and sweaty. Most boondockers don’t care if other people see them as dirty and smelly.
If you prefer to stay inside your RV, or you do not like hiking, biking, camping, being outdoors, then maybe staying in an RV park is better for you.
If It’s Important to You to Stay Clean Everyday
You don’t have to forego showers just to boondock, and you don’t have to wear the same clothes on successive days. If staying just as clean everyday is important to you, then look for an RV that offers you larger water tanks and sewage tanks. Many manufacturers do make RVs with washer/dryers in them.
If you cannot afford an RV with increased amenities and electrical capacities, then boondock for shorter periods. Many boondockers prefer to stay on a few days and move on to next place. You don’t have to stay in the same place for two weeks or more.
Many boondockers will use wet wipes or a wet towel to wash themselves instead of standing in a shower.
Many other boondockers and nomads will get a gym membership (usually Planet Fitness or Anytime Fitness) and shower at their facility.