Camper van water system: setup and tips
A good water system makes the difference between camping and comfortable living in your camper van. Whether you want a simple setup with a jerry can or a full plumbing system with hot water — in this guide we cover all the options.
Plan your water system
Components of a water system
A complete water system in a camper van consists of:
Fresh water tank: 40-120 liters, depending on your space and travel pattern. Material: polyethylene (PE) or stainless steel.
Water pump: provides pressure to the system. Two types: submersible pumps (cheap, simple) and pressure pumps (constant pressure, more comfortable).
Pipes: 10-12 mm diameter, suitable for drinking water (John Guest or similar). Never use garden hose!
Boiler (optional): for hot water. 5-10 liters is sufficient. Heating via diesel, gas or 230V.
Faucet: special camper faucets are lighter and have lower flow rates than household faucets.
Waste water tank: catches used water. Should be at least as large as your fresh water tank.
How much water do you need?
Water consumption depends heavily on your lifestyle:
Minimal (conservative use):
• Dishes: 3-5 liters/day
• Hand washing: 1-2 liters/day
• Drinking/cooking: 2-3 liters/day
• Total: ~8-10 liters/day per person
Comfortable use:
• Including short showers: 15-20 liters/day per person
• With regular showers: 25-30 liters/day per person
An 80-liter tank is enough for two people with conservative use for 4-5 days. With comfortable use, this is 2-3 days.
Tip: install a tank level gauge so you always know how much water you have left.
Installation: step by step
The order of installation:
1. Determine the position of tank, pump, boiler and faucet. Consider weight distribution (tank as low and central as possible).
2. Mount the fresh water tank with sturdy brackets. The tank must withstand driving on rough roads.
3. Install the water pump. For a pressure pump: mount between tank and pipes. For a submersible pump: it goes inside the tank.
4. Run the pipes. Use drinking water hose and avoid kinks. Use push-fit connectors for easy maintenance.
5. Mount the faucet and optional boiler.
6. Run the drain to the grey water tank. Use a minimum slope of 1-2% for natural drainage.
7. Test the system for leaks before you start cladding!
Winterizing and maintenance
Water and frost don't mix. Take these measures:
Winterizing:
• Drain all tanks and pipes completely
• Blow out pipes with compressed air
• Leave faucets open so residual water can evaporate
• Optionally use food-safe antifreeze
Annual maintenance:
• Flush the system with clean water at the start of the season
• Clean the fresh water tank with a water purification agent
• Check pipes and fittings for wear
• Replace the water filter (if you have one)
Drinking water quality:
• Always use a water filter when filling
• Replace water every 2-3 days if not using it
• Never leave the system standing for months with water in it
Plan your water system
Use our tools to calculate the space needed for your water tank and other components.
Frequently asked questions
- How big should the water tank in my camper van be?
- This depends on your usage and travel pattern. For conservative use, plan 8-10 liters per person per day. A 60-80 liter tank is enough for two people for 3-5 days. If you shower often, choose 100-120 liters.
- What water pump do I need?
- A pressure pump (e.g. Shurflo, Fiamma) is most comfortable. It provides constant water pressure, similar to home. A submersible pump is cheaper and simpler but provides less comfort.
- How do I keep the water in my camper van clean?
- Use a water filter when filling, replace water regularly and clean the system at the start of each season. Use drinking water safe hoses and avoid standing water for more than a few days.