Ways to keep your leisure vehicle cool in a heatwave

So here are some tips on how to reduce the heat inside your Auto-Trail leisure vehicle

Look for a pitch in the shade
If you can keep your home in the shade for all or part of the day, the sun’s rays will have less of an opportunity to heat the structure and interior. If you are unable to shield from the sun for most of the day, position your home so that it is in shade for the afternoon or evening, which will provide shade when the temperature is likely to be at its highest.

If you are unsure of the direction of the sun when you arrive on site, ask your neighbours, or alternatively download a sun position app on your phone which will show the path of the sun.

Extend any awnings to shade the wall of the vehicle
A simple idea requiring a little planning when you first park up. Try to figure out which way is south and put your awning on that side if possible. The more sun you can keep off the side of your motorhome, the cooler it will feel inside. This is also, a useful tip for touring abroad.

Open at least two hatches or windows to allow airflow in your campervan/motorhome
The more airflow you can get into your van, the better. Opening hatches and windows on both sides helps to create airflow, which in turn helps your motorhome feel cooler. Try to open them on opposite side or ends to encourage even more air movement. Allowing fresh air in can also stop condensation and mildew in your van.

Keep blinds closed or use a screen
Keep your motorhome blinds or hatch screens closed. If you have a reflective screen, use it. Just stopping a little light will help reduce the interior temperature dramatically.

Plan your cooking
Using a hob, grill or oven in your motorhome is just going to make things even warmer inside. As much as possible, try to cook outside so the heat does not build up. If you like a hot drink on a hot day, then try use a gas burner outside instead of the hob or kettle inside.

Don’t forget, many campsites either do not allow BBQ’s or they insist they are kept off the floor. Make sure you ask ahead of your visit as you may need to invest in a firepit or stand or a BBQ with legs.

se 12v portable fans to keep a motorhome cool in summer
You can use several 12v portable fans in the van to help move air around and keep things feeling cooler. If you have pets, this is great way to keep them cool.

Keeping pets cool
Providing water for pets to lie or play in can be a great way to help them keep cool. Other ways to help pets cope include offering cool surfaces to lie on and frozen treats such as carrots and kongs. Please do not feed them ice cubes as this can be dangerous, and don’t walk your pets during the hottest part of the day. Cool coats, bandanas and mats are all great aids to keeping temperatures low.

Keep hydrated
Our last tip is aimed at you rather than the leisure vehicle itself. Drinking plenty of fluid keeps your body cooler in high temperatures. Fruit juice, soft drinks and drinking lots of water (2-3 litres per day) will keep your body cool.