If you plan to go camping during the summer, your likelihood of camping in a heatwave increases exponentially. While it can be challenging, you can still have a great time.
With a few precautions, like staying hydrated and using the right equipment, like portable fans, camping in the heat is doable. It’s your chance to make memories, so don’t let summer temperatures stop you.
Here are expert tips on how to beat the heat and enjoy your outdoor adventures, regardless of what summer throws your way.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is always good advice, but it’s essential when camping in the heat. Drink water throughout the day, even when you’re not thirsty. If your body has to tell you you need a drink, you’re already dehydrated.
Always carry a reusable water bottle, and avoid drinking soda or coffee. Sugar and caffeine can dehydrate you when it’s hot.
Wear Lightweight Clothing
You should wear lightweight and breathable clothes to avoid heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Avoid tight shirts and shorts, and don’t expose your skin to the sun.
While you may associate camping with bathing suits and shorts, they don’t protect you from the intense sun. The more skin you expose, the more uncomfortable you get since sweat doesn’t evaporate easily from your skin. Wear loose pants and long sleeves instead.
Don’t Forget a Hat
One way to get heatstroke is by not wearing a wide-brimmed hat when directly in the sun. Pick a hat that can shield your face and neck to prevent sunburn and overheating.
Wear sunglasses if you’re reading or spending a lot of time in unshaded areas during a heatwave. They can protect your eyes against UV rays and decrease your chances of heat exhaustion.
Sunscreen Is Your Friend
While you may apply sunscreen first thing in the morning when camping, you shouldn’t call it a day, especially if you’re sweating a lot. For best results, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours or after each swimming session during the day.
Also, don’t pinch your sunscreen like you do your pennies. Always apply it liberally to ensure you don’t miss any spots.
Select Shaded Campsites
After you're prepared for the heat, the next best thing is to select a campsite that won’t make warmer temperatures worse. If possible, camp in areas with a lot of foliage that can offer shade during the day.
Hot temperatures feel more bearable in the shade, so take advantage of it, and you’ll enjoy your camping trip that much more.
Buy a Portable Fan
Portable fans are lifesavers when you go camping during the summer. If you choose a battery-powered fan, you can set it up anywhere. Besides, it’s lightweight and easy to move around.
Each person in your camping party should have a portable fan. If that’s impossible, or you left a couple of fans at home, try buying a larger camp fan that can offer relief to two or three people simultaneously.
Take Refuge in Air-Conditioned Spaces
Regardless of your precautions, if the heat becomes too much, it’s time to head indoors. Look for places with air conditioning, from grocery stores and restaurants to shopping centers and even nearby museums or touristy attractions.
The best strategy is to spend the hottest hours of the day (from mid-morning to late afternoon) in an air-conditioned area if the temperatures soar above 100°F.
Use a Misting System
Misting systems or fans use a fine mist of water to cool you off and increase your comfort level in a heatwave. The best systems can be connected to a water source so you can refill them easily and provide continuous relief.
Pick a battery-powered misting fan. This way, you can easily recharge it overnight and have it ready to go when you need it most.
Run Your Vehicle’s Air Conditioner
Sometimes, getting to an air-conditioned place is not an option because of your campground's location. When that happens, hop in the car and turn the air conditioner on.
Taking a mini road trip with the air conditioner on when it’s hot is preferable to braving the heat by staying close to your tent, especially in extreme temperatures.
Pitch Your Tent Under a Tree
Always pitch your tent under foliage to maximize ventilation and prevent it from overheating. Trees are natural shade-givers, and having one overlooking your tent can reduce the heat and discomfort during the hottest times of the day.
If you can’t find a tree, lessen the heat effect by purchasing light-colored tents. Avoid dark blue and black at all costs; these colors absorb sunlight and heat, making your tent hotter.
Use Tarps to Block Sunlight
In the absence of a tree, use the next best thing. Tarps in light colors block direct sunlight and give you some respite on a hot day. Hang them in a way that creates a haven of shade close to your tent, and bring in your portable fans and misters for a cool oasis.
Keep drinking water throughout your stay. Resting in the shade doesn't mean you're safe from dehydration.
Set Your Tent up on Higher Ground
Low-lying areas usually trap air, which stagnates and concentrates heat. For example, don’t set up your tent at the bottom of a valley. While it will work in your favor during winter, you’ll have no airflow in the summer.
Set up your tent on higher ground to maximize air circulation and promote ventilation, which cools you down and lets you breathe.
Create a Cross-Breeze
Creating a cross-breeze is one way to stay cool while camping in the summer heat. To promote airflow, open the vents and windows inside your tent, especially those across the tent from each other.
This method works best early in the morning and after dark when the air is cool. Also, try to use the wind in your favor and create a cross-breeze on a windy day.
