Instructables.com
DCL
If you think hot water via the sun is impossible in the winter, think again. You just might want to consider whipping up a solar heated water kettle from recycled plastic bottles. It's a great way to use the sun in your favor, especially when camping, since it works even when temperatures are really cold.
Instructables walks you through how to take a few pieces of trash and some garage supplies, and create a solar powered hot water kettle. Because the plastic bottles break down from the heat, the water shouldn't be used for drinking, but can still be used for a lot of other functional purposes.
The water kettle can heat water to as much as 95 degrees Fahrenheit, even when the outdoor temperature is a mere 30 degrees Fahrenheit. That means you can have hot water for a pleasant sponge bath, wash the dishes, or to fill up your hot water bottle while out camping in cold weather.
If you're looking for a Macgyver-style project to show off to friends, or want to have a way to get hot water without additional fuel while you're out camping, this is a great project to try. Just be sure you also know how to find water in the wild as well.
