Beat the Heat: Camping Cooling Strategies for Caravans

Few things are as serene and wonderful as going camping in the wilderness – you’re away from the hustle and bustle of the city, surrounded by nature and peace. Seeing as many of us struggle to unwind and relax, having a place to do just that is invaluable. Taking your home to the woods in the form of a caravan can be a convenient way to transition from one place to another, and make sure you have all the basic amenities.

But an issue that can take the calm away from the whole experience is when it gets too hot, forcing you to abandon the calm outdoors and seek refuge in your caravan. Not only does this take away from the experience of being in the wilderness, but it can also get quite uncomfortable and overwhelming – especially if your home on wheels isn’t that cool either.

How Do You Keep Your Caravan Cool?

Fortunately, there are a few ways to mitigate the heat and maintain a decent level of comfort in your caravan. You don’t have to make any major or costly renovations – with a few simple changes, you can have your caravan cool and breezy in no time.

Install an Air Cooler Fan

Perhaps your first line of defence is to install a caravan fan of 12 v for air circulation. This nifty device allows the air to move through the caravan and keep it cool, while also helping to reduce condensation. This can be especially helpful when the scorching sun of the day is replaced by the chill of the night.

In terms of the model and placement, you have a few options at hand. The classic mountable fan 12 v model is normally permanently nestled on the roof or the wall, while the portable fan is a great choice for those who want more flexibility and mobility. Both models have the same capacity and run on the same power source, with the latter simply being more lightweight and easier to move around.

Another option is the oscillating 12-volt caravan fan which basically has the same function but can cover a wider area thanks to its adjustable angles. This is great for larger vehicles that need to have some air movement in all the nooks and crannies.

Think about how you intend to use your device and which speed settings you’d like to have. Some come with adjustable speed sets, which can be very useful if you want to adapt your fan’s performance as the temperature changes. Other features like timers, air purification, and energy efficiency are also worth considering.

Finally, the size of the device may contribute to the overall comfort of your vehicle, as the bigger fans tend to have a greater cooling effect. Generally speaking, the larger the fan, the lower the energy consumption per hour. This could come in handy if you’re looking to save some money on your energy bill.

Close the Curtains During the Day

The Aussie sun can be unforgiving, with temperatures reaching 40°C during peak season. To navigate the heat, you must be smart and use whatever resources are available. When it comes to your caravan, one of the simplest methods is to close the curtains during the hottest part of the day. Doing this will provide shade and block out some of those harsh sun rays.

Another wise move is to keep all your windows closed, as this will help reduce the temperature in your caravan. The caravan fan can take care of the humidity and condensation, while the curtains will help you keep your ride as cool and fresh as possible.

Use Reflective Window Film or Solar Screens

Speaking of windows and their contribution to the rise of temperature in your camper, you may also want to consider using reflective window film or solar screens. These are essentially sheets of tint that block out the light from outside and keep your ride cooler for longer.

Another benefit of reflective window film is that it reduces the temperature during the night. Since these sheets don’t let any light in, they create an insulating effect that keeps the heat out, all while providing privacy to the residents inside.

Get an Awning to Provide Shade

Serving as a fantastic source of shade and protection from the elements, putting up an awning may prove to be a crucial step in keeping your caravan cool. There are various types of awnings available, with some being more effective than others depending on the specific needs of your vehicle.

Retractable models offer direct sun protection, as they can be pulled out when needed and put back when not in use. Fixed varieties, on the other hand, are normally more aesthetically pleasing and may also feature built-in LEDs for lighting.

Cook Strategically and Stay Hydrated

Last but not least, your own behaviour will play a prominent role in how cool your camper gets. This means that you should be careful when it comes to cooking, as this activity can generate a lot of heat.

If you’re going to prepare some delicious meals, try and do it outside in a kitchen you set up in the shade. This would be much more beneficial than cranking up the oven in the hot caravan and making it even more unbearable.

Furthermore, you shouldn’t forget the vital importance of staying hydrated. It’s a good idea to have cold drinks and plenty of water close by, as this will make sure that you won’t overheat during those sizzling summer days.