Boondocking in your RV can be a great way to break away from the crowds, immerse yourself in wild landscapes, and save money on campground fees. What boondocking sites lack in amenities, they make up for with their remote locations and peace and quiet. However, when boondocking during the summer months, staying cool can be an adventure on its own, since you’re camping without electricity.
Here are a few ways you can keep your rig (and yourself) cool while boondocking in warm weather.
Location. Search for campgrounds with higher elevations, shade, and near bodies of water—these features play a role in reducing temperatures. Even in hotter areas of the U.S. like the Southwest, every 1,000 feet of elevation gain can reduce temperatures by 3.5 degrees. You should also avoid camping on asphalt or concrete pads, which hold in heat.
Reflect the sun. Use products like Reflectix in your RV windows to help keep the interior of your rig cool.
Open windows. If you’re not using a reflecting product in your windows, open them to keep air circulating, especially on cloudy, breezy days when you don’t need to reflect the sun.
Fans. Invest in a battery-powered generator to use for a fan or charge a battery-powered fan before your trip to keep air circulating inside your RV—fans can make a significant difference in your RV.
Use your awning. If you’re looking to cool off outside of your RV, extend your awning for added shade and protection from the sun. This is also a great way to block the sun from heating your RV during the day.
Cook outside. Keep the interior of your RV from heating up by cooking your meals outside. Bring your own portable grill or fire pit to create a cooking area outdoors—be sure to check local fire restrictions before use.
Boondocking in Hot Weather: How to Keep Your RV and Yourself Cool
