Camp sinks are an essential piece of camping gear, enabling you to clean up your equipment, wash your dishes and even do some laundry without getting soaked. Easy to pack and transport to remote pitches, these convenient accessories will give your outdoor adventure a hint of home comforts – but which is the best portable camping sink for your next trip?
Like most products, the answer will depend on your particular needs and camping style. In this article, we review a variety of the very best portable camping sinks on the market, so you can find your perfect match in no time.
Best Portable Camping Sinks
- SereneLife Portable Camping Sink
- Coldcreek Outfitters Sink Table
- UST FlexWare Collapsible Sink Wash Basin
- Seattle Sports Outfitter Dish Wash Basin for Camping
- Seattle Sports Outfitter Double Sink
- The Friendly Swede Collapsible Bucket Sink
- Joseph Joseph Wash & Drain Sink
- Best Choice Products Portable Table Sink
- Coleman Folding Double Wash Basin
Here’s our top selection of some of the very best portable camping sinks. We’ve selected a wide variety of styles, all at different price points, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for your needs.
SereneLife Portable Camping Sink
The Portable Camping Sink by SereneLife is ideal for handwashing when you’re out camping. Whether you’re camping as a family or just like to have a convenient hand wash stand station for extra hygiene when preparing your meals, this portable option is a good choice for your trip.
- OUTDOOR CONVENIENCE: The SereneLife Portable Camping Sink makes water easily accessible outdoors Wash your hands or food & even drink from it Features a hands-free operation by just stepping on the foot pump to provide a stream of water
- COMPACT & PORTABLE: The portable hand wash stand offers you a lightweight & handy design allowing you to bring it anywhere needed It has a built-in handle & rolling wheels enabling you to transport it even when filled w/ water
- FOOD SAFE MATERIAL: The transportable faucet station is primarily made from HDPE plastic making it suitable for a wide range of food & other products Perfectly non-toxic & safe for the whole family to use
- FOR PERSONAL HYGIENE: Includes an integrated liquid soap dispenser, stainless steel towel holder & a flexible drainage hose allowing you to direct waste away, these additions ensure youre able to maintain a healthy level of hygiene no matter where you are
- GENEROUS WATER CAPACITY: The water tank of the mobile basin stand provides you 19 liters or 5 gallons of water readily available for use which will surely accommodate plenty of campers or travelers in each refill
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Featuring a 3.5-liter basin, you’ll easily have enough space to wash your hands or to rinse off small items. The basin and its components are made from a high-density engineered polyethylene for durability. This also makes it easy to clean and weather resistant.
You can completely disassemble this basin and easily transport it in the included carry bag, although bear in mind that it is nonetheless bulkier to store than other collapsible camping sinks. The wheels on the water tank make it easy to move around even when full, ideal if you’re spread over several sites.
With a 19-liter capacity, the pump operated water tank has all the capacity you’ll need for handwashing. Simply press the button with your foot to dispense water from the faucet. One press provides 180 ml, making it easy to use, just dispense a few pumps for clean hands and better hygiene.
This unit also comes complete with an integrated liquid soap dispenser and a towel rail, ideal for keeping everything you need in place outdoors, even in breezy conditions. There are also corner holes for pegs to keep your sink secure should the weather turn.
At 10.4 pounds, this unit is fairly lightweight, although it is heavier than many other models. While it is a little on the bulky side to transport and store, it is an excellent solution to keeping your hands clean when out camping, especially if you’re camping with little ones or at an undeveloped campsite.
Coldcreek Outfitters Sink Table
Take the backache out of washing up when you’re camping with this ingenious sink table by Coldcreek Outfitters. Combining a practical work table complete with two sinks, this model makes an excellent addition to any camp kitchen for general hygiene, dishwashing and laundry.
- PORTABLE OUTDOOR ACCESSORY: This portable table is made from heavy-duty materials, which makes it perfect for a camping kitchen, outdoor cleaning station, or backyard sink. This folding sink table offers a mobile cooking, cleaning, and food-prep solution.
- UTILITY SINK STAND: Made from heavy-duty polyurethane and a durable steel frame, this collapsible camper table is perfect for outdoor use, whether its in the garden or backcountry. Built to be rugged and sturdy, it can be used to clean fish, cook dinner, or play games.
- 2 SINKS: With a dual-sink design, this lightweight fishing table provides plenty of space to clean gear, fillet fish, and wash hands. These camp tables feature 2 sinks measuring 1.5 and 4.5 deep. It can be assembled quickly and easily without tools.
- LARGE OUTDOOR TOOL: This table measures 33 tall—the perfect standing height. It measures 40 x 26 and is easy to set up and take down so you can quickly get to your favorite activities. This is one of those camping accessories that you can't live without!
- PORTABLE OUTDOOR SINK: Whether you're using this table as a backyard grilling tool or a backpacking camp kitchen accessory, it provides the space and sturdiness you need. This foldable camp table is lightweight, sturdy, portable, and versatile. It provides everything you need in an outdoor faucet
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The two molded sinks feature a full drain system and a faucet for your convenience and ease of use. Standing at 33 inches high, this unit will save you from having to bend over and makes meal preparation and cleaning up afterward much easier. The durable steel frame is stable and secure, wherever you need to place it.
For meal preparation, dining or family activities, simply place the included sink inserts into position to benefit from a work surface of 1,040 square inches. For use as a meal or fish prep station, this model also benefits from a refuse hole that features an easy-snap locking system to attach a small garbage bag.
Not only is this sink table highly practical to use when camping, it is also easy to transport and store thanks to its fold-away design. Lightweight and easy to carry, the high-density polyethylene top is also highly durable, weather and stain-resistant, and easy to clean.
For home away from home comfort and convenience when camping, this wash station makes an excellent choice. Thanks to its fold away design it’s also highly portable and easy to store, while its solid construction makes it ideal for all outdoor activities as well as for washing and laundry when you’re camping.
UST FlexWare Collapsible Sink Wash Basin
The FlexWare Sink 2.0 has a generous 16-liter capacity, making it a good choice if you have a lot of washing to do on your camping trip. Its double carry handles also make it an excellent multi-purpose camping item, you could use it as a basket, an ice bucket, for your laundry, or to douse your campfire at the end of the night.
- DIMENSIONS: 5.59” H x 11.42” W x 14.96” D (expanded), weighs 19.65 oz and holds 288.5 fl oz (8.5L)
- CONVENIENT: Dual carrying handles make it easy to move when filled and the entire basin is collapsible for easy storage and transport
- VERSATILITY: Can be used for showers, storage, as a carrying basket or to wash dishes at the campsite or at home
- MATERIALS: Thermoplastic rubber (TPR) construction that is BPA free and dishwasher safe
- DURABLE: Sturdy, plastic rim and base provide for additional stability
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Easy to store and transport, this model features collapsible TPR sides which fold down to just one and a half inches high. When fully extended, the sink is a generous 15 inches wide by 11.4 inches with almost 6 inches height, making it ideal for large loads.
Thanks to its sturdy rigid rim and base, it holds open when full and you won’t have to worry about setting it down on the ground where other models could puncture. However, be aware that if you accidentally knock into this model it can collapse pretty easily, so it’s less suitable if you’re planning on having the kids use it.
Lightweight and practical, there are plenty of uses for this versatile sink when you’re out camping. With its space-saving design and rigid, puncture-resistant base, this model is a highly popular choice for dishwashing, laundry and general cleaning when you’re out in the great outdoors.
Seattle Sports Outfitter Dish Wash Basin for Camping
Thanks to its square design, the Seattle Sports Outfitter Dish Wash Basin makes an excellent choice for your camping trip if you typically struggle to wash larger items. At 11 by 11 inches, with a 6.5 inch height when in use, this camp sink is a highly practical option that can also double as a carry basket.
- VERSATILE - Use for Washing Dishes (Especially Larger Items), Yourself, Doing Laundry, Ice Bucket, or Hauling Water
- HEAVY DUTY - Constructed Out of Thick 18oz Vinyl, Durable Welded Seams, Abrasion Resistant Base
- FEATURES - Webbing Carry Handles, Semi Rigid Perimeter to Hold Sink Open In Use, Collapses for Storage
- PACKABLE - Lightweight and Foldable for Easy Packing and Storage - Collapse it Flat
- SPECS - Dimensions: 6.5 x 11 x 11, Capacity: 786 Cubic Inches, 12.8L
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Made from a robust 18oz vinyl fabric with welded seams and a highly-durable, abrasion-resistant base, this dishwashing basin has been specifically designed for use when camping. It is flat-folding, taking up a very small amount of space and at just 2.24 oz, it is also extremely lightweight.
Thanks to its semi-rigid perimeter, this camping washbasin holds itself open when full, yet collapses with ease as soon as you empty it out. With its generous 12.8-liter capacity, the sturdy dual webbing carry handles make it easy to carry even when full – ideal for sites that are located a walk away from the water supply.
Highly packable and lightweight, yet durable and resistant, this camping wash basin is a popular choice, thanks to its square shape and robust construction. It’s also a highly versatile model that can be used for laundry, as a basket or for general washing and cleaning wherever you decide to set up camp.
Seattle Sports Outfitter Double Sink
Save time and effort when doing laundry or washing dishes with this double sink by Seattle Sports. Enabling you to wash then rinse, without having to make multiple refill trips, this model can help you to make the most of your time out camping and enjoying the great outdoors.
- VERSATILE - Use for Washing Dishes or Doing Laundry at Camp or Hang Up to Organize Items Around Camp
- HEAVY DUTY - Constructed Out of Thick 18oz Vinyl, Durable Welded Seams, and a Kink-Proof Frame to Maintain Its Shape
- FEATURES - Dual Compartments, Quick Release Buckle for Hanging to Dry/Organize, Webbing Carry Handles
- PACKABLE - Lightweight and Collapsible for Easy Packing and Storage - Roll it Up Tight or Collapse it Flat
- SPECS - Weight: 1lb, Capacity: 24.4L, Size: 11 x 11 x 7 inches
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Made from a durable, heavy-duty 18oz vinyl, this sturdy double camping sink has been designed to stand up to nature, so you won’t have to worry about scratches or punctures. The welded seams ensure that you won’t get any leakage, while the dual webbing handles are securely attached and robust.
With a total capacity of 24.4 liters (12.2 liters per sink), this model allows you to wash large amounts or to wash and rinse straight after. Each sink measures 11 by 11 inches with a 6.25 height, so you’ll be able to fit even large items that may be a struggle in rectangular, rigid containers.
Weighing just one pound, this lightweight model is also highly packable. The kink-proof frame holds the sinks open when full, yet allows them to collapse when empty for easy storage and transportation. When you’re done, you can even roll it up, making it extra easy to pack away into your vehicle with all of your camping gear.
Versatile and durable, this double sink makes an excellent choice for any camping trip. What’s more, it also features a quick-release buckle wrap-around strap so you can hang it up to dry after use without worrying that it will blow away.
The Friendly Swede Collapsible Bucket Sink for Camping
If you’re looking for a handy collapsible bucket that can double as a camping sink for your washing and laundry, then check out this model by the Friendly Swede. Available in 10, 16 and 23-liter capacities, there’s sure to be one to fit your camping needs.
- COMPACT BUCKET WITH POURING HANDLE: To our multi-functional flexible bucket we have added a handle on the bottom side for easier pouring. You can also use it to hang your bucket to dry! A Collapsible Bucket is useful for fishing, car washing, gardening, picnic or camping. Use it as an ice bucket for cold beers on a sunny day, storing your fresh-caught fish, for window cleaning or as a camping sink for doing dishes on the go. Or why not draw a cool and soothing foot bath after a long day of hiking?
- FREE FROM TOXIC BPA AND PHTHALATE: Our Friendly Foldable bucket is made of Heavy Duty Industrial Grade 500D PVC Tarpaulin, a strong durable material with double-stitched, sealed seams. It is free from toxins such as BPA and Phthalates - for your safety and the environment. This also makes it suitable as a travel dog bowl, horse feed bucket or apple picking basket!
- SPACIOUS: Flat and compact when not in use. Make sure to put down the bucket carefully on flat ground so it doesn’t tip since it is a collapsible bucket. Contains up to 10 liters (2.64 gallons/ 338 oz.) 9.85 x 7.87 / 16 liters (4.23 gallons/541 oz.) 11.80 x 9.44 / 23 liters (6 gallons/768 oz.) 13 x 10.63 / 30 liters (7.9 gallons/896 oz.) 13.78 x 11.8.
- REMOVABLE MESH POCKET AND LID INCLUDED: Use the removable mesh bag for your fishing equipment, gardening tools, dishwashing soap, cutleries or anything you need to bring together with your foldable bucket. A lid with a durable handle is also included.
- LIFETIME WARRANTY - RISK FREE SHOPPING: To back it all up, we are offering our Friendly Lifetime Warranty for this camping bucket. Our World Class customer service team is here for you every day of the year and happy to help answer ANY questions you may have within hours
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Made from heavy-duty, industrial-grade 500D PVC Tarpaulin, this bucket sink is highly durable. Its double-stitched, sealed seams are specially reinforced so it won’t leak. Simply fill with water and the bucket takes shape and remains upright. Empty it and it collapses for minimal storage space.
Thanks to its lid, you can leave this model full without worrying about bugs getting in your water. It’s also easy to fill and carry thanks to its long carry handles that you can put your arm through. The small external handle is great for tipping out the contents with ease and can also be used to hang it up to dry.
Another advantage of this particular model is its detachable mesh side pocket. This can be used to store your dishcloths and soap or any small items that you may otherwise lose, such as cutlery. You could also definitely use this camp sink as an ice bucket or for a day out fishing on your camping trip.
This multi-purpose camp bucket sink is an excellent addition to any camping trip, where its compact, collapsible design ensures it takes up a bare minimum of space. Its long carry handles also make it a great choice for camping in areas where you have to carry water a certain distance back to camp.
Joseph Joseph Wash & Drain Sink
If you are looking for a rigid camping sink, be sure to check out this model by Joseph and Joseph. Solid and durable, unlike collapsible models, you won’t have to worry about any punctures, leaks or spills.
- Dishwashing bowl with straining pump by Joseph Joseph
- Integrated plug and strainer; simply twist plug to drain or strain water
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Great for home use, RVs or camping
- Dimensions: 12.4 in L x 12.2 in W x 7.9 in H; Capacity: 8.9 L or 2.35 gallons. Hand wash only
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Thanks to its deep sides, this camping sink is a popular choice. At a little over 12 by 12 inches with a height of 7.5 inches, this basin will easily accommodate your dishes and cooking utensils. This also makes it a good choice for doing laundry in the great outdoors.
The integrated, cut-out carry handles are another great feature when using this sink for camping. They won’t break and unlike webbing handles, they won’t sway causing you to spill the contents when walking or moving your sink around.
Aside from its solid durability, this sink also makes a popular camping choice thanks to its integrated plug. Simply twist it to drain, you won’t have to struggle to tip up your sink to empty it and potentially wetting your gear in the process. The plug also functions as a strainer so you can use this sink to rinse off your food before cooking.
While this sink is less convenient when it comes down to packing it away and storing it, you can still use it to transport or store other items during your trip. So, even though it is less packable than collapsible models, you could use it to store your camping dishwashing accessories when not in use.
If you are looking for a rigid, hassle-free camp sink for your dishes and laundry, this model by Joseph and Joseph is a highly functional, no-nonsense choice that is sure to last you many years.
Best Choice Products Portable Table Sink
If you are looking for a camp sink complete with an attached work station for handwashing, meal preparation and dishwashing, then this model by Best Choice Products could be just what you’re looking for.
- PERFECT FOR CAMPING, FISHING, AND MORE: Tabletop workstation comes with sink, faucet, and ample space to prepare, cut and clean fish, meat, and vegetables on every trip
- PORTABLE AND CONVENIENT: Folding legs and lightweight design make it easy to transport the table from the car to the campsite, beach, or park or store away in a closet or garage when not in use
- EXTENDABLE PIPE: Sink pipe has an adjustable length from 13 to 33 inches to give you the ability to hook up a garden hose from different locations and provide a reliable, steady water flow
- DURABLE AND STRONG: Heavy-duty plastic material can withstand years of travel, adventure, and use to provide an outdoor accessory and tool thats built to last
- MULTIPURPOSE USAGE: Can be used to wash hands and freshen up on a weekend trip, prepare meals, and organize various tools and supplies; OVERALL DIMENSIONS: 24(L) x 46(W) x 37(H)
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Completely flat folding for easy storage and transportation, simply fold away the legs into the tabletop. The top itself, complete with a molded sink is made from a heavy-duty, weather-resistant plastic that will live up to the elements, as well as your needs.
Complete with a faucet that connects to a hose hook up, a drain and plug, this camp sink is extremely convenient and practical. Just be aware that it can be a little tricky to assemble, so you may need to set it up at home first before taking it out camping.
With its generous dimensions, standing at a height of 37 inches, this workstation and sink will take the hard work out of trying to prep meals and clean up in the great outdoors. It is also a great choice for taking along on your fishing camping trips, where it would make an excellent fish cleaning station.
Whether you are looking for a handy addition to your camping kitchen or a wash and prep station to facilitate your camping trip, this portable table sink makes a good choice provided you get it set up first to suit your needs.
Coleman Folding Double Wash Basin
This washbasin by Coleman features dual basins, making it quick and easy to wash and rinse your dishes when camping. Thanks to its convenient folding design, this model takes up less space than a briefcase when folded, for easy transportation and storage.
- Portable camping sink ideal for washing dishes outdoors
- Two 10 x 10-inch PVC basins provide separate washing and rinsing areas
- Rigid rods offer support during use
- Folds smaller than a briefcase for easy storage
- Attached handles provide comfortable grip while carrying
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Made from heavy-duty PVC, this double washbasin features numerous support rods that keep it upright when in use. It makes a good choice for dishwashing, handwashing and laundry, as well as rinsing food and general cleaning tasks. As it’s transparent, you can easily see what’s inside without having to get your hands wet.
The twin webbing handles make transporting this model easy; however, once it’s full, they are not really sturdy enough to carry it, even for short distances. Also, there are a few quality control issues with this model’s design. For example, it’s a little too easy to tip water out unintentionally over the sides and the corners are prone to developing leaks.
While this is a highly convenient double washbasin, it does have its faults. If you are looking for a compact folding model, it could be worth considering, although given its weight and potential leakage issues, there are better versions out there that you should investigate before making your choice.
Best Portable Camping Sink Comparison Table
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Top Top | SereneLife Portable Camping Sink w/ Towel Holder & Soap Dispenser - 19L Water Capacity Hand Wash Basin Stand w/ Rolling Wheels - For Outdoor Events, Gatherings, Worksite & Camping - SLCASN18,White | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | Coldcreek Outfitters Outdoor Washing Table, Faucet and Sink, Portable and Foldable, Large Dual-Sink Design | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | UST FlexWare Collapsible Sink with 2.25 Gal Wash Basin for Washing Dishes and Person During Camping, Hiking and Home | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | Seattle Sports Outfitter Class Collapsible Square Pack Sink Dish Wash Basin for Camping | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | Seattle Sports Outfitter Class Double Pack Sink - Collapsible Dual Camp Dish Washing Basin | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | The Friendly Swede Collapsible Bucket for Camping, Travel and Gardening - Portable Folding Wash Basin Water Container Pail, with Lid and Handy Tool Mesh Pocket Yellow, 10L (2.64 gal) | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | Joseph Joseph Wash and Drain Dish Tub, 1 EA, Gray | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | Best Choice Products Portable Outdoor Fish and Game Cutting Cleaning Table w/Sink and Faucet | Prime | Buy on Amazon | |
 Top | Coleman Folding Double Wash Basin | PrimeEligible | Buy on Amazon |
Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Portable Camping Sink
To help you to find the best portable camping sink for your needs, we’ve compiled this handy buying guide that focuses upon the essential features that you’ll need to consider when making your purchase.
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Price
When you’re choosing your new camp portable camping sink, you certainly don’t want to pay over the odds. However, it’s better on your pocket and the environment to pay a little more for a solidly designed model made from durable materials, rather than buying several different replacements that will end up in landfills.
The price of your portable sink will also depend upon what style you are looking for. Models with extra features such as frames, faucets or pumps, will invariably cost quite a bit more than your standard bucket sink.
Think carefully about your needs and adjust your budget as necessary. If you are just looking for a basic portable camping sink, you can pick up good quality models from as little as $10. If you need a table style model or one with more features, expect to pay anywhere between $50-100 and more.
Styles of Camping Sink
As more people take up camping, the market is swelling with a huge number of products designed to make your trip more comfortable than ever. Even the humble camping sink can now be found in a wide variety of styles.
Here are some of the most popular styles you’ll come across when choosing your new camping sink.
Table Sink
Convenient for preparing your meal or your latest catch as well as washing up, table sinks are possibly the most practical model available. As they feature a frame with legs, you can wash up without having to bend over. The work surface table area can also be used for dining or any family activities, making them extremely useful models.
If you like the idea of a table sink, check that it features a folding frame so that you can easily pack it away and carry it to your vehicle. Also, be sure to check the dimensions of your table sink basin as they are often smaller than other variations, especially in depth.
Table sinks generally come with a faucet and drain system so you can set them up for maximum convenience. When used as part of your camping kitchen at a developed campsite, a table kitchen sink can provide valuable extra workspace as well as a convenient fixed place to wash your dishes with running water.
Foot Pump Sink
Foot pump sinks are an excellent option if you need a hand wash sink but tend to camp at undeveloped campsites. There’s no need for a water hookup, simply fill up the reservoir and step on the pump button for running water.
Foot pump sinks can be highly practical, although always check how much water is pumped per step to ensure that enough will be released for your needs, as well as the reservoir capacity.
In terms of portability and storage, foot pump sinks tend to be a lot bulkier than simple collapsible models. However, they can usually be easily dismantled and tend to be made of lightweight materials.
Bucket Sink
Simple, yet effective, there’s not much that can go wrong with a bucket sink.
Thanks to their rigid sides, you won’t have to worry about punctures or leaks caused by overexposure to the elements or vegetation. On the other hand, bucket sinks take up more storage space than collapsible models.
Bucket sinks can also be used to store smaller items when not in use, which can make up for the extra storage space they need. They can also be used to collect kindling or as general carry baskets around camp. You don’t have to worry as much about what you put in them, or about them collapsing when full.
Whether you opt for a collapsible or bucket style camp sink all depends upon your personal preferences, where you mostly camp and your existing gear.
Collapsible
Collapsible camping sinks are great space savers, folding away to around an inch high when not in use. Quick to deploy, the main issue a lot of users have is that they can easily become punctured or develop leaks.
When choosing a collapsible camping sink, it’s important to look for designs that do not have a lot of obvious seams. Any seams should be specially sealed to prevent leaks. You should also look for models with reinforced bases, so that you won’t have to worry about setting yours down on the ground if needed.
Collapsible sinks can be extremely durable; however, there are also plenty of flimsy versions that can collapse when full. When choosing a new collapsible camping sink, always pay close attention to the materials used and any reinforced areas that should provide the necessary support to keep your sink upright.
Materials
Plastic is a popular choice for camping sinks as it is both impermeable and weather-resistant, as well as being easy to clean and lightweight. Depending upon your style of camping sink, there are different plastics available. Do your homework and double-check that your model is BPA free.
If you opt for a table model, steel is a popular choice for the frame for its strength and durability. Always check that any metal framework is appropriately treated for outdoor use to prevent any degradation.
Faucet
If you opt for a table or pump operated sink, a faucet is a useful extra that allows you to control your water flow. This will make cooking, washing and laundry tasks much easier. If you opt for a double sink, you’ll usually have one faucet that can swivel between the two sinks.
Drainage
Drainage is always useful to have, saving you from accidentally wetting your gear and enabling you to dispose of your soapy water with precision. While usually associated with table sinks, you can also purchase bucket camp sinks with drainage holes, saving you the effort of tipping up a heavy sinkful of water.
Table camp sinks tend to come with drainage pipes that you can direct into a dedicated system or bucket depending upon where you’re camping.
Hose
Even if your sink does not come with a faucet, it may have a hose or a hose holder attached so you can benefit from a water hookup. While less practical than a faucet, a camp sink with a water hose can be extremely useful and save a lot of time on filling.
Handles
Always take a good look at how you will transport your camp sink, no matter which type of style you opt for. Even table sinks still need to be carried and it will be much easier to do so with an integrated or solidly attached carry handle.
Collapsible and bucket style camp sinks will need sturdy handles to be able to move them when full, as well as to tip out when you’re done. Webbing handles are a popular choice on collapsible models, while you will probably find that integrated, cut-out handles make a more robust choice for rigid, bucket camp sinks.
Sink Capacity
Sink capacity is an important factor. Table sinks can often be deceptively smaller than their bucket-style counterparts. Before making your decision, it’s important to take into account what you will mostly be using your camp sink for and the dimensions of any large articles that you may need it to accommodate.
Overall Size
If your camp sink is too big and bulky, it may be more of a hindrance when it comes to getting it out and packing it up. However, table camp sinks can be useful when they have a large work surface area, provided you want that extra space for meal preparation or to use when dining.
If you’re short on space, always double-check the overall dimensions of your camp sink, both when in use and when ready for storage.
Durability
Be particularly careful when purchasing a collapsible camp sink, as due to their design and materials, they are often the least durable. However, bear in mind that rigid plastic models can crack if dropped or used in very cold weather.
Packable and Portability
Ideally, whatever style you opt for, your camp sink will be easy to carry and pack up small. Obviously, bucket-style models will take up more space, whereas collapsible camp sinks will fold down to a height of several inches. Table style sinks should be flat-folding to maximize storage space.
Depending upon your available storage space and where you camp, packability and portability will be more or less important to you. If this is a deciding factor, be sure to check out the folded dimensions of your camp sink very carefully as well as any carry handles.
Easy to Clean
Aside from using your camp sink to wash up, you’ll also want one that is simple to clean itself. While rigid models tend to be the easiest, collapsible versions can be notoriously difficult to clean with all of their folds. Remember to pay close attention to any cleaning instructions from the manufacturer as some materials can be easily damaged.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a compact, collapsible camping sink or a large double sink table version, it’s clear to see that there are plenty to choose from. If portability and minimal storage space are of utmost importance to you, then we recommend opting for a model like the Friendly Swede Collapsible Bucket Sink. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a double sink setup complete with a large preparation area, the Coldcreek Outfitters Sink Table is an almost unbeatable choice.
Whatever your needs and camping style, you’re sure to find the very best portable camping sink for your next trip in our comprehensive selection.
