17 Simple Ways To Cool a Tent
It is possible that this content contains affiliate links. It is possible that I will receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on an affiliate link. In addition, as an Amazon Associate, I receive a commission from qualifying purchases.- Everyone’s desire is to go camping in the summer, when the days are long and the sun shines brightly. In addition to making your tent unbearably hot during the day and at night, hot days can make it difficult to sleep in your tent as well. The rays of the sun are absorbed by the tent, resulting in a buildup of heat.
Are you ready to learn how to keep your cool?
1 – Choosing the Right Tent
If you’re going camping during the summer months, getting the correct tent is the first step toward remaining cool in the outdoors. You’ll want a tent that’s breathable so that you can get plenty of airflow through it. In comparison to all-season tents, summer tents are constructed of a lighter material and have many mesh windows as well as rain flaps that may be left open during the day. Polyester tents are a fantastic choice if you’re camping in really hot weather because the material is resistant to UV rays.
In addition to being cooler than polyester or nylon tents, cotton tents have the benefit of being heavier and more difficult to set up than those made of other materials.
With the larger room, you’ll get even more ventilation, with cold air traveling throughout the space to keep the inside cool.
2 – Set Up Your Tent in a Shaded Area
Rather than pitching your tent in full sunshine, choose a shady location to keep cool. Keep an eye out for areas of shade behind trees and other plants. You should keep in mind that the sun will shift around during the day, and a site that is sheltered in the morning may be in full light by the middle of the afternoon. If you can, try to take advantage of any wind you come across, no matter how slight. Even a slight wind flowing through the netting of your tent might provide some relief from the heat.
3 – Dig a Tent Pit
Bring a shovel with you, and if feasible, dig a two-foot-deep trench into the earth to store your supplies. In this trench, you should set up your tent. Pitching your tent partially in the ground, where the soil is cooler, will help to keep both the floor and the interior of your tent more pleasant during the summer months.
4 – Pitch the Tent When It’s Cooler
If you arrive at your campground on a hot day and immediately begin setting up your tent, it won’t take long for the temperature to rise.
Pitching the tent immediately before the sun sets is nearly a surefire way to ensure that it will be cool inside when the sun comes up.
5 – Take Tent Down During the Day
It may seem like a lot of effort, but taking down a tent throughout the day and putting it back up at night is a sure-fire method to keep it cool during the summer. If you’re camping in really hot weather, this is one of the most effective ways to keep cool. Disassemble as soon as you wake up in the morning, being sure to store the tent in the shade.
6 – Open All the Vents
Keep your tent’s vents, doors, and rain flaps open to allow air to circulate and keep it cool. The tent will be able to breathe better as a result of the ventilation and movement of air. You may keep the mesh closed if you’re concerned about pests going inside the tent; you’ll still have plenty of airflow throughout the tent.
7 – Use Thermal Reflection
Reflective tarps and sheets will reflect the sun’s rays away from the surface of the tent, allowing the interior to be kept more comfortably cool. The most effective approach to utilize reflective tarps is to tie them to tree branches and suspend them above the tent so that they act as a roof over the tent. Always leave about 12 inches between the tent’s roof and its tarp to allow for proper ventilation and drainage. Reflective tarps are available at most camping supply stores at a reasonable price.
8 – Cooling With a Fan
The use of camping fans may be quite beneficial in hot weather. In the event that you’re staying at a campsite that has power, bring a camping fan with you that has an extension chord on it. If you’re camping somewhere without power, consider bringing a battery-operated fan.or two. Look for fans that are lightweight and can be fastened to the tent’s walls, floor, or ceiling with Velcro straps.
9 – Add the Ice
If you’re not receiving enough cooling action from your fan, try adding ice to the tent to help it cool down. Position a block of ice in a shallow pan and place it in front of the fan to cool it down faster. Make sure you have a large enough pan to hold the water that will form as the ice begins to melt. Even in the absence of ice, cold water from a lake or river will serve the same purpose of chilling you down so that you may enjoy a good night’s sleep.
10 – Use Cold Towels
When traveling in hot weather, bring along a couple tiny hand towels to keep you cool. In cold water or lake or river water, soak a towel until it is completely soaked through. On a hot day, wrapping a towel around the back of your neck might provide immediate comfort. During the night, apply the cold towel on your forehead – you’ll be able to chill down and sleep in a tent that may still be retaining some of the heat from the daytime. Have you forgotten to bring towels? Instead, wear a tee-shirt.
11 – Ice Water Jugs
Fill a couple jugs with water and place them in the freezer for a few hours before your camping excursion. Pack into coolers so that they don’t thaw out too fast — the idea is to utilize these jugs of ice as improvised air conditioners on a hot summer night if possible. Place a jug of ice in the bottom of your sleeping bag before climbing into it, even if you’re simply going to sleep on your feet.
This is a simple method for quickly cooling your feet so that you can go asleep. After the first night, after the ice has melted, you may utilize the water as a source of fresh water. Also, fill the jug for sleeping with water from a nearby cold stream or river to keep it cool while you sleep.
12 – Take a Cold Shower
If you’re staying at a campground with shower facilities, take a cold shower before retiring for the night. The cold water will lower your internal body temperature, allowing you to sleep better since you will be more comfortable. Is there no bathing facility? Taking a swim in a lake, river, or stream will do just as well as taking a bath.
13 – Forget the Sleeping Bag
A sleeping bag that will simply serve to increase your body temperature on extremely hot nights is the last thing you want to do on such occasions. Instead, bring along some cotton sheets for comfort and skip the sleeping bag altogether. Lay a sheet on top of the bag and use it as a protective cover. This serves as a warning that even after a hot day in the outdoors, it might turn chilly at night. Keep a blanket nearby in case you wake up feeling cold in the middle of the night.
14 – Stay Hydrated
In order to stay hydrated when camping in the heat, you need drink enough of water. Drinking enough of water and staying hydrated in hot weather will help you maintain a healthy body temperature in hot weather. And the colder the water is, the cooler you’ll feel when you’re swimming.
15 – Pack Lightweight Clothing
Avoid wearing heavy, dark-colored clothing during the daytime since they will absorb heat and make you feel hot. Avoid overheating your internal body temperature by wearing light-colored garments that are made of natural fibers such as cotton or linen, which allow heat to escape rather than be trapped. By doing so, you will be able to reflect heat while also increasing circulation via the cloth itself. Select cotton long-legged and long-sleeved clothing to sleep in when you retire for the night before bedtime.
16 – Sleep in the Dark
With you inside your tent, the early morning sun may quickly heat up your surroundings. Make an effort to retire for the night as soon as the sun sets and to awaken before the sun has fully risen in the morning. Besides allowing you to sleep in cooler settings, you’ll also be able to enjoy the sounds of birds singing when they wake up for the day as they begin their day.
17 – Skip the Tent
There will be nights when, no matter what you do, the tent will just not be able to maintain a comfortable temperature for anyone to sleep within. Take the tent down and replace it with a hammock this weekend. You’ll need a couple of trees to hang the hammock from so that you may tie it between them. You’ll have better circulation all over your body and will be able to sleep in complete comfort. In the market for a hammock, search for one that has been specifically created for sleeping rather than for lazing in your garden.
Keep a bug net with you at all times if you’re camping in an area where there are bugs. Furthermore, if there is a danger of rain, you will want a tarp to cover your head.
Final Words
Are you ready to go camping now that you’ve learned how to keep a tent cool? You may camp in hot weather knowing that when it’s time to put out the campfire and retire to your tent, it will be welcome and cool, allowing you to get a good night’s sleep so that you’ll be ready for another day of camping adventure the next day using the recommendations in this article.
10 Tips To Keep Your Tent Cool in The Summer
Are you planning a summer camping vacation but aren’t sure how to deal with the sweltering temperatures? Nobody enjoys waking up in the middle of the night, dripping wet from excessive perspiration. It is possible for your tent to get too hot during the summer months. Don’t be concerned! It is not going to cost a lot of money and shouldn’t take too much time. It’s simple to keep your tent cool all summer long with a little forethought and preparation.
Planning For The Summer Heat
My pals and I went camping for the weekend a few days after the arrival of spring. Given that it was the beginning of spring, I was anticipating cool evenings and nice sunny days. Unfortunately, Mother Nature had other ideas, and I was soaked in perspiration by the time I woke up the next morning. While I wasn’t able to modify everything about my gear, I was able to make a few minor adjustments to make my nights a bit more pleasant.
How to Make Your Tent Cooler
Like the idea of sleeping in a tent that feels like you’re sleeping in a toaster oven? I don’t, which is why I do my hardest to keep my tent as cool as possible. Here are my top ten recommendations for keeping your tent cool in the heat.
1)It All Starts With a Tent
Tents are going to be the most significant piece of camping equipment you can purchase. When camping in the heat of summer, you must take your requirements into consideration before setting out. Choose a comfortable and airy 2-Season tent that is intended for hot weather. Summer tents, on the other hand, are surprisingly economical (check out this affordable summer tent). If you have a large family, you may want to consider a larger cabin-style tent to accommodate everyone (like this one). Larger cabin-style tents will feature large windows and high ceilings, which will provide for plenty of air during the summer months.
2)You Need Plenty of Ventilation
When it’s hot outside, you don’t want to be forced to close your doors and windows. It is necessary to have all of your windows open, unless you are changing your clothing. Not only will venting your tent improve the ventilation, but it will also help to minimize the amount of moisture in your tent. Check out my post on how to keep condensation from forming in a tent. Just keep in mind that not all tents are intended for usage in the summer. If possible, choose a tent with plenty of windows and a vented rainfly to allow for more airflow.
3) Tent Footprints and Sleeping Pads
The high heat of summer will cause everything to become somewhat hotter than normal. It would be much cooler if you can keep your body away from the scorching earth. Bring either a big tarp or a footprint built specifically for your tent with you. If you put an old, worn-out footprint under your tent, it will help prevent some heat transmission. The use of an insulated sleeping pad (this is the one I use) can help to further isolate your body from the ground.
Lightweight sleeping pads provide a little amount of insulation while also elevating you off the harsh ground. Even a low-cost foam cushion, such as this one, is worth its weight in gold in terms of comfort.
4) Find Some Shade
When your tent is exposed to the scorching sun for the most of the day, it will become quite hot. You’re going to have troubles no matter how properly ventilated the space is. Even a small amount of shade will have a huge impact on the temperature of your tent. In order to obtain shade, one of two methods must be used. Place your tent beneath a tree or build up a temporary canopy system to protect yourself from the elements. Personally, I prefer to use a portable sunshade instead of a permanent one (something like this works great).
Sunshades provide adequate space for air to flow and are quite simple to install.
5)Portable Fan or AC
Despite the fact that it may sound absurd, many individuals carry their own air conditioning to keep their tent cool. If you have access to electricity, one of these portable air conditioners will help to keep the temperature in your tent comfortable. Simple as plugging it in and draping the vent hose through the opening. You may also use a tiny box fan, but make sure to have an extension chord that is at least a foot long. If you’re trekking, obviously, you won’t be able to bring your portable air conditioner with you.
You’d be shocked at how quickly a fan like this one can cool off your tent at nighttime temperatures.
Check out the video below for instructions on how to construct a portable ice air conditioner.
6) Bring Extra Ice and Water
Have you ever come out of a hot shower, sweating profusely, and failed to cool yourself off again? Once you start sweating, it’s difficult to quit without a small amount of cold water to cool yourself down. Making oneself comfortable is almost as vital as making your surroundings comfortable. Make an effort to locate your camp near a water source. On a hot, bright day, you’ll use up more water washing yourself and cooking than you will by simply drinking water. You must have quick and simple access to a water supply in order to avoid running out.
7)Comfortable Clothes
Dress in light, lightweight garments that have natural moisture-wicking characteristics to keep yourself cool. On really hot days, I like to dress in synthetic materials. Take anything along the lines of Under Armour Style t-shirts as an example. Cotton just takes too long to dry, making it uneconomical to use. I always pack a couple additional pairs of pants and shorts, as well as caps, a pair of sunglasses, and at least three spare t-shirts with me on trips. Perhaps even a little towel to soak in water and drape over your neck (you’ll cool off quickly) will be useful to you.
How to Keep a Tent Cool
Documentation Download Documentation Download Documentation Camping is a wonderful outdoor pastime that can be enjoyed even on the hottest summer days. When it’s hot, your tent, on the other hand, might become really unpleasant.
The good news is that you have several alternatives for keeping your tent cool. You can fight the heat by making the most of your supplies, pitching your tent in the most appropriate location, and covering your tent with a tarp or umbrella to keep the sun at bay.
- 1 Bring your ice-filled cooler into the tent with you. In the event that you packed food or beverages in a cooler, the frost from the ice will be the most effective technique to reduce the temperature inside your tent. Set up the cooler in the tent and pop the top open. The ice will help to cool down the air in the tent, making it more pleasant for you.
- To prevent your ice from melting completely, take a couple handfuls of ice out of the cooler and place them in a dish or container with some liquid. Afterwards, place it inside your tent.
- Air circulation may be accomplished with a battery-operated fan. Place your fan at the tent’s doorway or in a rear corner to keep it cool. If it has the option, set it to oscillate so that it better enhances the circulation of air in the room. This will assist in cooling down your tent.
- Even the smallest personal fan may make a significant effect! If possible, attempt to carry a bigger portable fan with you if you can find one
- Nevertheless,
- When using a cooler, position the fan behind the cooler so that it blows cool air into the tent. If you prefer, you may fill a cup or dish halfway with ice from your cooler and position it directly in front of the fan. Advertisement
- s3 Open the door to your tent as well as any vents if it has any. This permits more air to flow within your tent than would otherwise be possible. If your tent is made of mesh to keep pests and animals out, you should keep the doors and vents open at all times when camping. Otherwise, leave the tent’s door and vents open when you’re not in it and throughout the daytime.
- In the market for a tent, seek for one that includes a mesh layer to allow you to leave the doors and vents open for a longer period of time. Choose a tent with vents as well because it will be cooler in such a structure.
- 4 If the weather prediction does not foresee rain, remove the rain fly from the window. The majority of tents are equipped with a rain fly, which prevents moisture from entering the main chamber. Given that they are frequently extremely thick, they can trap heat and cause the tent to become uncomfortablely warm. If there isn’t any rain in the forecast, take the rain fly off and stow it in the tent’s storage bag. This might assist in keeping the tent cool.
- In the event that you are sheltering your tent with a tarp or a sunshade, you may not require your rain fly, even if it is raining. It is important that the tarp or sunshade keeps the rain out of your tent.
- 5 Sleep on top of your sleeping bag in order to keep warm and remain cool. Because sleeping bags are meant to retain heat, avoid putting your body inside one if it’s already warm inside the tent. In order to be comfortable and cool, you should instead lie on top of the tent.
- If you have more than one person sleeping inside your tent, the heat generated by their bodies will raise the temperature of the tent. That’s something to keep in mind if you’re afraid about acquiring a cold.
- Tips: When camping in hot weather, it’s essential to carry a sheet with you so that you may sleep comfortably under it. You’ll be considerably more comfortable outside than you would be inside your sleeping bag. Advertisement
- 1 Position your tent in a shaded area, such as behind a tree. If at all feasible, find a location where trees will provide shade for your tent. As a result, the trees will absorb the majority of the heat, keeping your tent cool. Alternatives include seeking out a spot beneath the shadow of a bigger building, such as a mountain
- Typically, shady spots may be found beneath a tree, in low slopes, under ridges, or adjacent to any local cottages. Keep in mind that the sun’s position changes throughout the day, so search for regions where your tent will remain cool while you are inside. For example, an eastern ridge will almost certainly be more effective in blocking the light in the morning than a western ridge
- 2 Look for a location with adequate wind circulation. Blowing wind will help to keep the temperature down, so select a home base that has excellent air circulation. Additional considerations include putting your tent’s door so that it is facing the wind.
- Holding your hand up into the air will allow you to determine the direction the wind is blowing. In order to determine which direction the wind is coming from, feel the chilly side of your hand. If you have cellular reception, you may also use a weather app to check the forecast.
- 3Set up camp near a river or lake, where it will be cooler. Because it’s usually cooler near bodies of water in hot weather, they’re excellent places to camp at that time. If you’re camping near a body of water such as a lake, pond, or ocean, position your tent along the water’s edge to capture any prevailing breezes. If you’re camping near rivers or streams, position your tent upstream to receive cool breezes
- 4 Place a blanket inside your tent to keep the heat from the ground from escaping. As the earth absorbs the sun’s rays, it naturally warms up and becomes more comfortable. Heat from the sun may radiate upward into your tent, elevating the temperature inside. By draping a blanket over the ground beneath your tent, you can keep the heat contained beneath it. Place your tent on top of the blanket and secure it with rope. Variation: You are free to utilize whatever form of ground cover that you have available. Depending on whether you have a tent footprint or if you have brought some cardboard, this may contain. Another approach is to place a layer of leaves under your tent to keep the heat out. Installing your tent after nightfall will allow you to avoid the heat of the day. If you do not intend to use your tent throughout the day, wait until the sun has begun to set before erecting it. To keep it safe until then, store it in its original bag in a cool or shaded location. Keep your tent bag on ice if it’s going to be very hot.
- Even if the sun is shining, heat will be accumulating inside your tent as the day progresses. Set up your tent while the sun is still shining if you’re worried about it being difficult in the dark
- If you’re worried about it being difficult in the dark, do it as soon as it begins to set up.
- 6 If it’s really hot outside, take down the tent throughout the day. It’s annoying to have to put your tent back up every day, but it’s necessary if you want to keep your tent from feeling like a hot oven. Tents are built to retain heat, which means that if you keep your tent up, it will become increasingly hot. When possible, pull your tent down in the morning and set it back up at night
- This will give you the greatest results.
- To ensure that the tent remains as cool as possible, store it in a cool location.
- 1 Purchase a tarp or sunshade large enough to cover the entire tent. While a parasol is the most effective method, a tarp or blanket may also be used to keep the heat off your tent. Purchase a parasol or tarp before you go camping, or make do with what you already have to keep the sun at bay.
- Because the sun is often what causes your tent to heat up, limiting its beams will be really beneficial
- Stakes or poles should be driven into the ground to provide support for the tarp or parasol. The majority of sunshades come with the poles you’ll need to put it together. Use loose stakes or poles to hold down a tarp or blanket if you’re not using a tarp or blanket. Place them in the ground at a depth sufficient to keep them stable. Afterwards, attach the poles together to provide a foundation for your parasol or tarp to rest on.
- In order to provide additional support, it is advisable to wrap the tarp or sunshade over a tree branch. Stakes and poles may be purchased at your local camping or sporting goods store.
- Alternative: If you’re improvising, you can utilize tree branches, the roof of your car, or the items you brought with you to assist support your shade structure. 3 Tarp or sunshade at least 12 inches (30 cm) over the tent’s eaves and corners. Gently drape the parasol or tarp over the pole or posts to complete the look. Make sure it covers the entire tent by adjusting it. Ensure that there is sufficient space between your tarp or parasol and the top of your tent so that air can flow
- Your tent will be protected from the sun since the suns rays will bounce off the sunshade or the tarp rather than seeping into it.
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- Question How far away from water should you set up camp? Halle Payne has been trekking and backpacking in Northern California for more than three years and is a member of the Sierra Club. As a Trip Leader for Stanford University’s Outdoor Education Program and as a Hiking Leader for Stanford Sierra Conference Center, she has also instructed seminars in Outdoor Education and Leave No Trace principles at Stanford University. Leader of Hiking and Backpacking Trip Expert Answer Keeping in mind Leave No Trace principles — and to prevent having an influence on water sources — make sure your camp is no more than 200 yards from a water source.
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- Staying cool is made easier by dressing in light, loose-fitting garments and consuming enough of fluids. Maintaining a cold neck with a damp washcloth or towel while in your tent will save you from being overheated.
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- It’s important to get out of your tent as soon as you notice that you’re sweating excessively and that you’re feeling dizzy, nauseated, or confused
- Otherwise, you’ll become faint and dehydrated quickly. Find a cool, shady spot to rest and drink plenty of water.
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About This Article
Summary of the ArticleXTo keep your tent cool while you’re building it up, throw a blanket or a layer of leaves below the bottom of it, which will assist to deflect heat radiating up from the ground. Under order to maximize comfort, situate the tent in the shadow of a tree. Once the tent has been put up, open the door and any vents to allow air to circulate through it. Even if it doesn’t appear to be raining, it’s a good idea to remove the outer cover, which can keep heat trapped within the tent.
You may cool down the tent by bringing an ice cooler inside and opening it to allow the air to circulate more freely.
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OldManTravels/flickr Don’t like the idea of spending the night in a tent that feels like a furnace? We don’t believe it either! Sleeping through the night when camping in the summer is quite difficult due to this factor. That heated tent will prevent you from receiving the rest you need before embarking on another full day of outdoor exploration and adventure. Fortunately, we have four straightforward suggestions for keeping a tent cool when the weather is hot. So, let’s get down to business!
How to Keep Your Tent Cool While Camping: 4 Easy Tips
You will want to give careful consideration to the tent you will be hauling when camping in the heat of the summer. In warmer temperatures, a 2-season tent is the best option. Although heavier, a cotton tent will remain cooler than tents constructed of nylon and polyester, despite the fact that they are more expensive to purchase. A bigger, cabin-style tent with mesh windows is a wonderful choice for summer camping since it provides more space. Air circulation is critical, and the windows will assist to keep the tent cooler by bringing in fresh air; the larger amount of room will allow the air to move more freely.
- Related:The 6 Best Camping Tents (Essential Review)
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If your tent is simple to set up and take down, try putting it up as the sun is setting and taking it down as the sun comes rising in the morning to save time. This will prevent the tent from overheating during the hotter midday hours and will allow it to maintain its heat into the nighttime hours.
As soon as you finish putting up your tent, add a ground cover (tarp or footprint) between the earth and the tent. Instead of your tent’s floor collecting the heat from the ground, the ground cover will absorb the heat from the earth.
2) Seek out the Shade and Get Digging
The warmth of the sun will help your tent to warm up during the day and stay comfortable all night long. Making the decision to put up your tent in a shady location can assist to keep it cool because it will not be exposed to direct sunshine. dj/flickr An additional factor to consider while erecting your tent is the direction of the breeze. Try to position your tent such that the wind will blow directly into the mesh windows if at all possible. Keep your windows open during the day to allow heat to be drawn out of your home.
Placing your tent partially underground will assist you in keeping your tent cooler throughout the summer.
3) Cooling the Air
In the event that you are staying at a campground with electric sites, carry a camping fan with an extension cord with you. If you don’t have access to energy, a battery-operated fan (6 or 12-volts) is a good option. Many different fans may be fitted to your tent; position your fan so that it blows on you rather than directly at the tent wall. Put a chunk of ice in a shallow dish and place it right in front of the fan. This will assist in making the air seem colder. To avoid spilling the water once the ice has melted, make sure your dish is large enough to retain the water, or empty it regularly.
The units are tiny and portable, making them simple to travel and set up, or you may mount a window unit on a stand to make it easier to see outside.
- Related: How to Make Camping Comfortable (6 Simple Tips and Ideas)
- How to Make Camping Comfortable (6 Simple Tips and Ideas)
- Referred to: The 10 Best Tents for Less Than $200
It will take more effort for the air conditioning equipment to keep your tent cool because it is not properly insulated with fabric. The BTU rating of 5000BTU should be considered while selecting an air conditioning equipment for a tent space of 150 square feet. It is essential that you have a heavy-duty outside extension cord with a minimum 15-amp rating with you. There are HVAC systems available for tents, or you may build your own sleeve and air duct that will run into your tent from a nearby building.
Take a look at the video below to find out how to build your own air conditioning system.
4) Use a Reflective Tarp
It is possible to create a sunshade using a reflective tarp or a reflective space blanket. Placing a couple of them on the roof of your tent or tying them to the trees that surround your tent can help to keep it from being too hot. Using this method, the light will be reflected away from your tent, reducing the amount of heat that enters and becomes trapped inside. Campers do not have to stay away from their sites during the hottest months of the year.
With a little effort, you can keep your tent cool when camping throughout the hot months. Being able to obtain a decent night’s sleep implies that you may enjoy spending the night outside all year long if you choose to do so.
How To Keep Your Tent Cool On Summer Trips
Summer has arrived, and with it, the pleasant and warm weather prompted the notion of going on a camping trip with a group of friends. In principle, it appears to be a fantastic plan, but within a few minutes, you’ll begin to have second thoughts about it due to the brutally hot weather outdoors. Taking a nap on a hammock Before you decide to cancel your vacation, have a look at this article first. Learn about the techniques for keeping your tent cold while it is hot outside, so that you may sleep and spend time in it without the risk of suffering from a heat stroke.
It is not difficult or complicated, and following these suggestions will make your trip far more comfortable, especially when it is scorching outside.
Take Care Of The Tent For The Beginning
The first thing you’ll need to do is get the greatest summer tent you can find, because the material may make a significant difference in how well it performs. Because cotton does not hold heat as well as nylon or polyester, choosing a cotton shirt will allow you to cool down more quickly than wearing a polyester or nylon shirt. A two-season tent is the most suitable alternative.
The Bigger The Better
The first thing you’ll need to do is get the greatest summer tent you can find, because the material may make a significant difference in how well it performs in the summer heat. Because cotton does not hold heat as well as nylon or polyester, choosing a cotton shirt will allow you to cool down more quickly than using a polyester or nylon shirt. Tents for two seasons are the most suitable choice.
When To Set Up And Break Down Your Tent
If you are working during those hot summer days, it is much easier to function after the sun begins to set, making this the optimum time of day to set up your tent. If it is not difficult to accomplish and it will not take much time to break it, you might do it in the morning and put it someplace in the shade so that it does not heat up during the hot summer sun and remains warm during the night. You should also put a ground cover below your tent to protect it from the elements. It will not only keep the dirt out of your tent and make it easier to clean, but it will also absorb the heat from the ground, decreasing the temperature inside your tent.
Look For Shade And Get Ready To Dig
Choosing a shaded location is important if you don’t want to have to tear down your tent every morning to keep it cool. It will keep the direct sunshine away from your tent, allowing it to cool down more slowly in the summer. This will make the cooling process much more straightforward. The placement of your tent in such a way that the wind blows straight into your mesh windows is another “technique.” This, in conjunction with the open windows throughout the day, will help to remove the heat from the inside of the house.
And why did we bring up the subject of digging? So, if it’s permitted, dig a two-foot-deep trench and pitch your tent in the middle of it. This will help to keep the temperature down a little bit.
How To Cool The Air
You’ve learned how to choose the right tent and how to position it so that it doesn’t get too much direct sunlight, but even the shadiest spot on the campsite, combined with a large tent and wide opened mesh windows facing the wind, will not be enough to keep the heat at bay during summer tent camping, and you’ll need to do something to cool the air down to survive. Fortunately for you, there is something you can do about it.
Bring A Fan
Before you get on the road, double-check the information on your campground and make sure it has electricity before you depart. Some campgrounds, for example, do not give electrical outlets because they want you to be able to totally concentrate on nature and survival instead. Utilize it to bring a fan in front of your tent or to connect a fan to it if it has an extension cable if your tent does not have one. You might even get a battery-operated one that operates on 6 or 12 volts if there is no electricity available.
Enter Ice
A petrol station or a store near you will very certainly have a freezer stocked with a large bag of ice, or possibly a block of ice. Take a shallow dish and position it right in front of the fan, allowing the air to cool as it comes into contact with the ice in the dish. One potential issue with this approach is that the ice may melt, and you’ll have to make sure that the bowl you’ve placed it in is large enough to hold the water that will be released. You could, of course, empty it from time to time if you wanted.
Get Portable Tent Air Conditioner
If your campground has power, you may use a portable tent air conditioner in the same way that you would with a fan if you have access to it. Seek out a model that is tiny, compact, and not too heavy, so that you can transfer it with relative ease. Alternatively, you could just mount it on a pedestal and direct the airflow inside your tent from there. The disadvantage of this method is that it may necessitate the use of more energy, and you’ll need to know how large your tent is in terms of square feet.
You should try it out at home first before you go for your trip.
Fourth, you may buy a tent-mounted heating/cooling system and utilize it to fabricate your own insulated sleeves and air ducts that will be routed into your tent to keep it cool.
Get A Reflective Tarp
The use of a reflective tarp to keep a tent cool is one of the most regularly utilized methods of keeping a tent cool. In the event that you have an anti-reflective tarp or an anti-reflective space blanket, you might employ them to build a sunshade. Place them on top of your tent’s roof or tie them together with the branches of surrounding trees to allow air to circulate between the layers.
Make sure there is at least some open space between the layers to allow air to flow between them. You’ll be able to reduce the amount of heat that enters your tent while also keeping the sun at bay.
Additional Tips And Tricks
Aside from these four main categories of tips and tricks for summer tent camping and how to keep a tent cool, there are a few more things you can do to assist you combat the heat and remain as cool as possible throughout your camping trip.
Tent Alternatives That Can Help
While it is impossible to imagine going on a camping vacation without a tent, it is possible that it might cause more harm than good. Tents are most commonly made of nylon, polyester, or cotton, depending on their use. Nylon and polyester tents will keep the heat out, but it will be more difficult to cool them down. Cotton tents, on the other hand, will be heavier and more difficult to transport about. In light of the above, it may not be a terrible idea to consider sleeping in a hammock or foregoing the use of a mosquito cot tent for the night.
This style should be suitable for a wide range of settings, and it will offer you with sufficient space to fit completely within.
Consider investing in an insect repellent product or a bug net to make sleeping in a hammock more comfortable.
If you wish to lie down flat, turn yourself diagonally.
Drink Water, And Lots Of it!
Water is essential for keeping your organism cool, therefore drink lots of it. As a result of the high temperature, you’ll be sweating profusely and losing a lot of fluid, so you’ll have to work extra hard to make up for lost fluid and keep well-hydrated during the day. Don’t forget that water is utilized as a coolant in a variety of applications, and it serves the same function in your body. Drinking sports beverages will also help to expedite the process. Keep hydrated at all times!
Use A Wet Towel To Cool Yourself
It is possible to feel very hot while tent camping in the summer, and the only thing that can help is wrapping a damp, cool towel over your neck. When the night falls, wrap a cloth around your head and place it there to keep the cold out. Once it has dried, simply reverse the process. You might also wear a shirt, a bandana, or a cap to do this.
Shower Using Cold Water
Just before you retire for the night, take a brief shower with cold water. It will reduce your body temperature and act as an internal air conditioner for a short period of time, helping you to become more comfortable and sleep more soundly.
Don’t Wear Dark Colours
Because dark surfaces attract insects and bright surfaces reflect the sun’s rays, it is suggested that you only wear light-colored clothing while tent camping in the summer. This will assist you in staying cool during the day by reflecting a portion of the sun’s energy.
It’s also a good idea to stay with natural textiles like cotton or linen, which enable your body to breathe. If you have the option, wear long sleeves to ensure that you are completely covered; but, if you don’t want to, make sure that you are wearing sunscreen.
Replace The Sleeping Bag With A Sheet
Sleeping in a sleeping bag on a hot summer night may be a nightmare in the extreme heat. It has the potential to trap heat inside itself and prevent cold air from reaching your body. This is why it is recommended that you bring a cotton sheet along with you rather than a sleeping bag. By using a mattress pad, you’ll be warm enough while still having the opportunity to cool down and sleep soundly at the same time.
Sleep During Dark
Summer also means that the mornings will be hot, and the temperature inside your tent might quickly rise from comfortable to unpleasant in a matter of minutes. You may reduce your chances of being caught by it by going to bed earlier and rising up earlier, when the sun is still fully up, to reduce your chances of being captured by it.
Globo Surf Overview
While the arrival of summer means plenty of opportunities to spend time outside with your friends while also learning something new by visiting different campsites and exploring nature during your hikes and backpacking trips, it also means you’ll have to watch out for the hot weather, which could ruin your adventure by forcing you to stay awake during the night because it’s too hot to sleep otherwise.
This article should have provided you with sufficient information to successfully tackle this subject and be properly prepared for your trip before you depart.
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28 Tips on How to Stay Cool While Camping
Summer camping in certain locations (such as the United Kingdom and northern Europe) means that you can finally break out those new hiking shorts that you knew you’d need at some time. To do so, you must be willing to remove one of your layers, maybe even a vest top, depending on your level of bravery and confidence. For the most part, staying cool when camping is not a problem, and it is certainly not something that should be a source of concern the majority of the time. Camping, on the other hand, may be plain awful when the temperature rises beyond 30 degrees Celsius in other nations where extreme summer heat is a regular occurrence.
Make sure to check out our guide to camping for novices before you go, as well as the top recommendations for camping in the heat that are included below.
28 tips to stay cool while camping
If you’re fortunate enough to have a ‘real’ summer climate and are planning on going camping this summer, then read on for some helpful hints on how to keep your cool in the great outdoors.
Create a cool campsite
Before you even think about where you’re going to set up your tent, take a look at the sun’s position and select a location that will give the largest amount of shade during the warmest hours of the day.
If you’re camping in the summer, this is especially important. There is no problem with getting a little sunset sun because the temps will have cooled down by then (hopefully!). However, if at all feasible, your campground should be in the shade throughout the morning and afternoon hours.
2 Get high and enjoy the breeze
Gaining elevation is an excellent technique to bring a refreshing wind into your tent and camping location. However, finding shade does not necessarily go hand in hand with finding a good spot to sit. It’s still worth it to remain up as long as you can, if you can throw up a tarp for sun protection and there is enough wind to keep you from melting in the oppressive heat.
3 Put up a tarp
While looking for the most shaded, breezy area to set up camp, keep in mind whether there is enough space to set up a tarp or beach canopy to give additional protection from the elements. This will make the experience of hanging out at camp much more enjoyable. Make certain that it does not obstruct any valuable wind that may make its way into your tent.
4 Camp near water
Having the ability to dip in and out of a river or lake whenever the situation calls for it is the most optimal method to enjoy camping in hot conditions. It’s also unnecessary to arrange activities around staying cool — just bring a soccer ball, a frisbee, and an inflatable ring and you’ll have nothing but cool and happy campers on your hands! Having access to even a tiny brook or stream where you may paddle and splash about can make a significant impact.
5 Take an inflatable pool
If you don’t have access to a huge body of water, consider bringing your own! When it comes to keeping youngsters cool, a small inflatable paddling pool is great, and there are few better ways to spend a day than lounging in a pool with a cold drink in hand.
Make your tent as cool as possible
Yes, there are some really cool tents available, but many of them will not keep the heat out as the temperatures begin to rise. If you’re buying a tent designed for camping in hot weather, go for a light color that will reflect the heat better than a dark color, rather than a dark color. In addition, choose a lightweight double walled tent with a mesh interior for the maximum possible ventilation and minimal weight. You might also use a tent with fans, such as theSiesta4: heat and light blocking tent with fans!
7 Take off the fly
Alternatively, if the likelihood of rain is low and your tent’s interior part is largely made of mesh, you can remove the rain fly altogether from your tent. Not only is this THE greatest method to take use of the through-breeze to keep you cool while you sleep, but it also opens up a ceiling of stars to watch while you go off to sleep.
8 Open the vents
If you don’t have the luxury of a mesh inner tent to strip down to, make sure that all of the windows, doors, and vents in your tent are open as much as possible. In an ideal world, all of them would be covered with mesh to keep the pests and mosquitoes out.
9 Use a sleeping bag liner
Use a thin cotton sheet from your bed at home, or, even better, a silk sleeping bag liner, to line your sleeping bag instead of a traditional sleeping bag. Silk is not only cooler to the touch than cotton, but it is also quicker to dry, making it a superior choice for dealing with excess sweat.
10 Get a tent fan
Do you have trouble getting any natural air into your tent?
Use a small fan to keep your tent cool while you’re away from home. If you’re camping at night, hang it from the ceiling of your tent, or place it on your dining table to provide some relief during meal times.
11 Reflect the heat away
For situations when there is little shade and you really want to keep the heat away from your common area or your tent, reflecting thermal survival blankets might serve as a good alternative. Set them up like a tarp over your hang out area or a few feet above your tent, just like you would a tarp.
12 Sleep in a hammock
Getting raised and sleeping on a hammock is one of the most effective methods to remain cool at night. Due to the lack of a mattress underneath you (which was meant to trap hot air for better insulation), you will instantly feel cooler, and if you raise your tarp to a good height, you will receive an excellent cross wind above and below you.
Food and drink to keep you cool
Having a nice cooler with plenty of capacity is vital while camping in the heat. Ensure that it is stocked with plenty of cooling snacks, beverages, and popsicles. If it’s really hot, you may need to refresh your ice supply every few days, so make sure you have access to a store where you can acquire more ice.
14 Drink lots of water
Keep in mind that staying hydrated is one of the most crucial things you can do to keep cool while camping in extremely hot temperatures. In ideal conditions, you should be consuming a minimum of 2 litres of water per day in moderate temperatures; attempt to increase that to 3 litres, or even more if you are physically engaged. Put your water in an insulated container to ensure that it stays as cold as possible. Thus, you have a better chance of drinking more fluids while also being more easily aware of how much fluid you are taking in.
15 Replenish your electrolytes
If you are sweating a lot, you will be losing salts as well as water from your body. Therefore, be sure you mix in some electrolyte pills, such as Nuun, with your water. Alternatively, you may prepare your own beverage by combining sugar, salt, and lemon juice into your water. When exercising in the heat, it is especially vital to drink enough of fluids since you will be sweating considerably more.
16 Eat cold food
Many people experience a slight loss of appetite when it is hot outside. As a result, this is the ideal time to consume some refreshing salads, which are simple to prepare and require little or no preparation. Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables will help you feel less lethargic than heavy prepared meals, which is a welcome relief when the heat is already sapping your vitality.
Clothing to stay cool in
Though it may make you feel hot and sticky to wear a hat, keeping the hot sun off your head is a good approach to avoid heat stroke. Consider purchasing a hat with a brim that extends all the way around to provide you with additional sun protection on the back of your neck and face. If at all feasible, buy a hat with a UPF rating of 50 or above for the best possible protection.
18 Wear light colours
Stay away from wearing dark colors since they absorb the heat from the sun and make you feel more hotter. Instead, dress in light-colored clothes that performs a better job of reflecting the heat away from your already-hot torso and legs!
19 Choose lightweight items
Lightweight clothes will make a significant difference in your ability to stay cool in the heat.
However, if you plan on spending a lot of time in the sun, be sure that your clothes isn’t too thin that damaging UV rays may pass straight through it. Consider wearing light-weight clothing that has UV protection built in, just like you would with your hat.
20 Wear loose clothing
Clothing that is too tight and restricting may be irritating even when worn under the best of circumstances. Increase the temperature and it might get downright uncomfortable! Choose baggy pants, skirts, and shirts to replace your rigid jeans with looser-fitting clothes that allows for more ventilation within your clothing.
21 Soak your hat or bandana
If the heat is becoming too much to bear, soak your hat in water before putting it on to keep cool. Put an abandana or a buff around your neck and do the same thing as before. The chilly water will gently drip down your back, and the sodden bandana will assist you in keeping your body temperature as low as possible.
22 Wear sunscreen
It should go without saying that you should use sunscreen when the weather is sunny and hot. Make sure it has a high SPF rating and that you reapply it throughout the day to avoid sunburn. If you will be in and out of the water, consider using a waterproof sunscreen.
23 Wear sandals
Wearing sunscreen when it’s sunny and hot is a given, yet it goes without saying. Make sure it has a high SPF rating and reapply it throughout the day to maintain its effectiveness. Waterproof sunscreen is recommended if you will be in and out of water.
24 Wear moisture wicking socks
To avoid excessive perspiration and discomfort when hiking or exploring in regions where shoes are required, choose for lightweight hiking shoes (instead of boots) and thin, moisture-wicking hiking socks to keep you comfortable.
Cool activities
The most apparent and fun technique to keep yourself amused in the heat is to jump into a chilly pool of water or a lake. Explore a few undiscovered swimming holes and spend the rest of the day diving in and out of the water. If you are comfortable in the water, swimming from point A to point B down a river or across a lake to an isolated island may be a terrific way to keep active while the weather is scorching. In addition, it was a fantastic adventure.
26 Tubing
Tubing is a pleasant and really refreshing activity to participate in during the summer heat. Jump into a slow-moving river with your inflatable ring, a picnic packed in an impervious bag, and prepare to be transported back to the days of Huckleberry Finn!
27 Head for the hills
If getting into frigid water isn’t your thing, then take a trek up to a high point and enjoy the view. Temperatures are often lower, the wind is milder, and the vistas are far superior to those found in the lowlands. Sure, it may take a lot of effort and sweat to reach the top, but the effort and sweat will be well worth it once you reach the pinnacle.
28 Get active at the coolest times of the day
As soon as the sun shines through your tent in the morning, you’ll need to get up and out of there as quickly as possible. If you get up before the sun, on the other hand, you’ll avoid the awful heat panic that serves as your alarm clock. You’ll also be able to take advantage of the cooler and more tranquil time of day to experience the nature.
Taking a nap in your hammock later in the afternoon is always an option if you need to catch up on sleep throughout the day. You’ll have enough of energy left over to go exploring again as the sun goes down.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke – know the signs
The methods listed above will assist you in staying cool even under the hottest of conditions and are essential in preventing heat exhaustion and heat stroke from occurring. However, things don’t always go according to plan, so if you do decide to go camping in extremely hot weather, it’s critical that you be familiar with the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke so that you can recognize them as soon as possible. Among the things to keep an eye out for are:
- Symptoms include fatigue and weakness, a sense of being faint or dizzy, a drop in blood pressure, a headache, muscular cramps, a feeling of being ill, excessive perspiration, strong thirst, a rapid pulse, peeing less often and producing significantly darker urine than usual.
If one of your party members exhibits any of the symptoms listed above, it is critical that you intervene immediately. More information may be found here.
How to Stay Cool While Summer Camping
Summer camping in parts of the United States comes at a high cost, with scorching temperatures as a result. As for camping in hot weather, while we clearly prefer camping in cooler weather, it is quite feasible to camp in hot weather and maintain a comfortable level of comfort while doing so. Here’s how to keep cool when camping in the scorching summer sun.
Pick the Right Summer Campsite
Plan your summer camping excursion to a spot where the temperatures will be acceptable. At the absolute least, look for a campground that offers lots of shelter from the sun. Alternatively, you may bring your own canopy or awning with you. Camping near water will also help you remain cool throughout the summer months. This is especially true if the water is suitable for swimming. Lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams are all excellent choices for swimming. Camping at higher elevations is also best done during the summer months.
If sweltering temperatures are predicted, you might want to reconsider your camping plans and consider staying at a private campsite such as a KOA.
How to Stay Cool While Tent Camping
Here are some suggestions I’ve gathered over the years for tent camping in the summer heat at temperatures of 90 degrees or more!
Set Up Camp in the Shade
Finding a place with plenty of cover is the greatest method to keep a tent cool during the summer. Set up your tent in the most shady location possible to ensure that it remains as cool as possible during the day. Is there not much shade? Dismantle your tent as soon as you wake up in the morning to avoid the greenhouse effect that occurs throughout the day. It should be reassembled in the evening before going to bed. Shade and/or dismantling and reassembling your tent are also vital for extending the life of your tent because direct sunshine will wear down the textiles of your tent much more quickly.
Ventilate Your Tent
Even the tiniest wind can have a significant cooling effect on your tent’s temperature. If the weather prediction allows it, camp without a rainfly to allow for the most ventilation possible.
During the day, open any additional vents, windows, or doors to allow the breeze to cool and ventilate your tent as needed. By orienting your tent entrance in the direction in which the wind is blowing, you may take this summer camping tip to the next level.
Wear the Right Clothing
The most common summer camp wardrobe items are shorts, T-shirts (or tank tops), and sandals. However, they are not suitable for all camping situations. The most important thing to remember is to dress appropriately for your camping trip. It goes without saying that RV camping and trekking demand very different attire. When camping or trekking in a remote location, it’s preferable to dress in lightweight, breathable materials. If you’re hiking or bushwhacking, it’s best to wear trousers rather than shorts because they are more lightweight and breathable.
If you’re working out in a hot environment, a lightweight, moisture-wicking tee shirt (or long-sleeve tee shirt) will keep you cool and dry.
A decent hat is just as vital as the correct summer camp gear when it comes to enjoying the outdoors.
Properly Pack Your Cooler
The ideal sort of cooler for camping is a matter of personal preference, and everyone has an opinion. The most important thing to remember during summer camping is to correctly load your cooler so that it can keep your food chilled for as long as possible. My method is to start with a foundation of block ice, then load my food in the reverse order in which I want to utilize it, and finally top everything with ice cubes to keep it from melting. Keeping your cooler in the shade, opening it as little as possible (and doing so as fast as possible when you do), and never draining the meltwater are three more ideas that will help keep your cooler cooler longer.
- Visit OurYeti Cooler versus Coleman Cooler Head-to-Head Showdown for more information.
Drink Plenty of Water
Despite the fact that it’s so clear, we’re all guilty of forgetting to drink enough water from time to time! As a result, bring lots of water with you and make sure you and your family drink enough water throughout the day. Keeping hydrated is as crucial while you’re swimming or engaging in other activities that cause you to naturally stay cooler. One of my favorite summer camping tricks is to fill milk jugs with water and freeze them before heading out. This helps to keep the water cooler for a much longer period of time!
Don’t Cook During Midday
When camping in the summer, avoid cooking during the middle of the day. Cooking should be done in the morning and evening. On really hot days, campfires and even camp stoves generate far too much heat to be practical. For lunch, eat something simple like a sandwich or anything you’ve prepared ahead of time that doesn’t require heating.
Bring a Portable Camping Fan
Whether you’re tent camping or RV camping, a portable camping fan may make all the difference in the world. The Coleman One Source Fan is one of my favorite tent fans, and it is available on Amazon.
Because it includes a rechargeable battery, you may use it without difficulty in a tent. We find that utilizing a small fan (even in our trailer) makes camping in hot weather far more pleasurable for our family.
How to Keep an RV Cool in Summer
Keeping an RV cool in the summer is quite similar to keeping a tent cool in the summer. For example, it’s equally vital to choose a campground with some shade in order to keep the interior of your RV cool during the daytime hours. The use of an extended awning provides external shade, while closing the window blinds might assist in keeping your RV cool. As a matter of fact, connecting up to utilities when RV camping in the summer is the best case scenario. A park that offers RV connections makes it simple to remain cool by simply connecting to the power and turning on your air conditioner.
Then leave your windows and roof vents open to allow for a cross breeze to circulate through your home.
During the hottest part of the day, try to spend as much time as possible outside in the shade rather than inside your RV.
Don’t Forget About Your Pets
Heat has an impact on your pets just as much as it does on you – if not more so. When you’re out summer camping with your dog, make sure they have enough of shade and fresh water to drink from the water bowl. In addition, a cooling garment for dogs, such as the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Dog Vest, can be used on exceptionally hot days or during summer hiking excursions.
How Do You Beat the Heat While Summer Camping?
The following five suggestions can assist you in learning how to remain cool when camping in the summertime! Many of our suggestions are plain sense – but there are a few less obvious camping techniques that might make staying cool even more difficult. We’re constantly on the lookout for innovative methods to combat the heat while camping in the summer months. Consequently, please let us know if you have any further recommendations! Camping is a blast!
