For most people around the country, summer is one of the best times to get outdoors and go camping. Unfortunately, it’s also the hottest time of the year.
The unbearable temperatures can become an unpleasant experience and possibly even dangerous. That’s why you need to know how to stay cool while camping.
Today we’re going to look at some of the best ways to stay cool while camping this summer.
Grab the sunscreen and sunglasses, and let’s go!
What temperature is too hot for camping?
The maximum temperature for camping depends greatly on the type of camping you are doing. You may cool down and feel comfortable differently in an RV that runs multiple air conditioners than in a traditional tent.
RV campers can generally stay cool in temperatures below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, camping in a tent can be very uncomfortable when temperatures rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, as we will discuss later, there are some things you can do to stay cool while camping in the summer.
Is camping dangerous in the summer?
Camping in the summer can be very dangerous, especially if you’re not careful. The heat can cause some of the most dangerous aspects of summer camping.
Don’t take heat stroke, dehydration and sunburn lightly. A trip to the emergency room is not how you want to spend your time. With these health risks, it’s important to know how to stay cool while camping.
In addition, camping in the summer often means an increase in water activities. Swimming, boating and fishing are some of the activities campers enjoy in the summer.
But whenever you’re in the water, there’s danger. Make sure everyone wears a life jacket and that a responsible adult or lifeguard supervises the activities.
Not only do campers like to come out in warmer weather, but so do insects. Depending on where you live, some creepy-crawlies can be extremely dangerous.
Bites and stings from these creatures can have negative health consequences, especially for those with allergies.
Why is it so hot inside a tent?
Tents can get incredibly hot due to their construction and greenhouse effect. Manufacturers make waterproof and windproof tents that are not optimal for air circulation.
The air inside the tent heats up and has nowhere to go. As a result, the temperature inside the tent rises. It doesn’t take long before it becomes unbearable inside.
It’s the same principle as when you get into a car in the middle of summer. If you open the windows and let the air circulate, the temperature can drop quickly.
To stay cool in your camping tent, you need to find a way to increase air circulation. This may mean taking down the canopy, opening the windows, or using fans. If you’re lucky, a cool breeze will blow before you retire for the night, so you won’t sweat while you sleep.
Tips for staying cool while camping in the summer
We have some tips for you if you want to know how to stay cool while camping. Let’s take a look at some things you can do this summer to prevent the heat from ruining your trips.
Choose a shady campsite
One of the best ways to keep cool while camping is to find a shady spot. Unfortunately, some campgrounds have removed a lot of vegetation to create as many sites as possible. However, many still offer shady spots, it just might take a little more effort to find them.
Some campgrounds are aware of the attractiveness of shaded sites and indicate the degree of shade in the site description. So read the site description carefully when making a reservation. If in doubt, call the campground and inquire about the site.
If you want to maximize your chance of finding a shaded site, camp in state and national parks. These campgrounds generally strive to maintain a natural environment, cutting trees only when absolutely necessary.
Use fans
Did you know that you can use fans to stay cool while camping? As we have already mentioned, you should increase the air circulation as much as possible.
If your campsite has electricity, you should bring a long enough extension cord so that you can place the fan in your campsite as needed. Also, you can set it up in your tent when it’s time for bed.
However, you can also bring a fan if you prefer rustic camping. There are many lightweight, battery-powered fans that will do the job.
Ryobi’s workshop fan is a good example. We love the Ryobi fan because you can use the same lithium batteries as the power tools. They charge quickly and last an incredibly long time!
Stay hydrated
Most people don’t drink enough water every day, much less in extreme weather conditions. As a general rule, try to drink half your body weight in water.
This means that a person who weighs 180 pounds should consume about 90 ounces of water daily. That’s a lot of water and a lot of trips to the bathroom!
In extreme heat, you can become dehydrated very quickly, especially when hiking or when you are exerting yourself. You need to drink small amounts all the time. If you wait until you are thirsty to drink, it is probably already too late.
If you are going on a physically demanding adventure, make sure everyone has plenty of water. However, it’s not enough to have water, you have to drink it. So take each other to task and take frequent water breaks.
Take a cold shower
There’s not much better than a cold shower after an intense hike or other exciting adventure.
A cold shower can cause blood vessels near your skin to constrict, which can lower your body temperature. In addition, a cold shower can give you energy and help you feel alert and awake.
However, cold showers are not for everyone. People with low blood pressure may have trouble with sudden temperature changes. Check with your doctor to see if you have any medical conditions that might make cold showers a concern.
Remember: Campground showers make hygiene easier when camping, but there are 5 mistakes people make when using camping showers
Wear light clothes
Another way to keep cool while camping this summer is to pack plenty of lightweight clothing.
Fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon are fantastic options because they are lightweight and breathable. Just like your tent, your clothes should be ventilated as much as possible.
However, the type of fabric isn’t the only thing you should consider when it comes to your clothing. You probably learned in elementary school that darker colors absorb heat and lighter colors reflect it. Therefore, it is best to choose light-colored clothing made of breathable material.
Use a damp towel
Don’t underestimate the effectiveness of a damp towel in helping you stay cool. A wet towel absorbs heat from your skin and can help regulate your body temperature. The evaporated water on the towel can create a pleasant cooling effect.
When you use a wet towel, wrap it around your neck. This will cool the back of your neck and pulse points, which is important for regulating your overall body temperature. You should also use the towel to wipe your arms, face and neck.
Unfortunately, while a wet towel can help you stay cool while camping, it does not replace the need to drink adequate fluids. It’s a good idea to use a wet towel in combination with some of the other tips we’re sharing with you today.
Avoid the hottest hours of the day
The early bird catches the worm,” says the popular saying. But the early bird also gets to enjoy cooler temperatures.
If you plan strenuous activities during your camping trip, do them in the morning or as early as possible before the day gets too hot.
The hottest hours of the day are usually between 10 am and 4 pm, so plan accordingly. If you are not a morning person, postpone your activities until the evening if possible. Retreat indoors or into the shade to wait out the heat.
Remember: We found the best RV accessories you need this summer! Which accessories will you add to your cart?
Safe camping this summer
Camping can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family. However, you must take the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe.
Remember to wear the right clothes, drink enough and avoid the hottest hours of the day.
Invest in good water bottles, battery-powered fans, portable shaded shelters and other items that will make your summer camping trip more bearable. If you do, you can have many safe and enjoyable summer camping adventures.
Will you be camping in a hot place this summer?