Summer road trips are what campervan dreams are made of—but when the sun’s blazing, keeping your cool becomes more than just a state of mind. At Custom Design Campervans, we know how important it is to stay comfortable in your home on wheels, so we’ve pulled together our top tips for keeping cool during those warm-weather adventures.
Whether you’re touring the UK or heading further afield into Europe, these easy hacks will help you beat the heat and enjoy every moment in your Custom Design Campervan.
1. Park Smart
One of the easiest ways to cool down your campervan is also the most overlooked—park in the shade! Trees, buildings, even tall hedges can provide natural cover and lower the temperature inside dramatically. Just be mindful of tree sap or falling branches.
2. Let the Breeze Flow
Creating a cross-breeze by opening windows or vents on opposite sides of your Custom Design Campervan encourages airflow and keeps air from becoming stagnant. This doesn’t just help with temperature—it can also reduce the risk of mildew and condensation.
3. Blinds Down, Heat Out
Keep your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. This simple trick can block out a surprising amount of heat, especially when you combine it with a reflective windscreen cover to stop the sun from turning your dashboard into a mini oven.
4. Cook Outside the Box
Using your cooker or hob heats up the inside quickly. Instead, set up an outdoor kitchen area, use a portable BBQ, or cook with an air fryer, which gives off far less heat. Your Custom Design Campervan will stay cooler—and smell fresher too.
5. Use the Sun (or Avoid It!)
When setting up at a site, try putting your awning on the sunniest side of the van to create a shady buffer zone. This is especially helpful if you’re heading to sunny European destinations. A little planning—like figuring out which direction is south—can go a long way. Some campsites may have rules about orientation though, so always check first!
6. Head for Higher Ground
Mountains mean cooler temps. It’s simple science—the higher you go, the cooler it gets. If the heatwave hits, consider rerouting to a hilltop retreat. Your Custom Design Campervan can handle the climb—and you’ll sleep easier in the crisp mountain air.
7. Water, Water Everywhere
Parking near water—like a lake, river, or even the sea—can help keep the surrounding air cooler. Just be aware that insects like cool spots too, so bring citronella candles or insect screens to keep them at bay.
8. Fans That Won’t Drain Your Juice
USB-powered fans are a game-changer. They’re compact, energy-efficient, and don’t tie up your main plug sockets. Pop one by your bed or seating area and enjoy a cool breeze without worrying about power consumption.
9. Dim the Lights
It may sound small, but your lights give off heat—especially halogens or older bulbs. Consider switching to LED lighting if you haven’t already. It’s cooler, brighter, and uses far less energy.
10. Cool Tech: Portable A/C
If you’re staying at a site with an electric hook-up, why not bring along a portable air conditioning unit? It saves you having to run your vehicle’s engine or air con system, which can guzzle fuel. A worthwhile investment if you’re planning a longer trip during peak summer.
Final Thought:
Your Custom Design Campervan is built for adventure and comfort—so don’t let the heat put a damper on your plans. With just a bit of planning and some clever tricks, you can keep cool, stay relaxed, and make the most of those glorious summer days (and nights).
Where will your next road trip take you?
op Tips to Keep Cool in Your Campervan This Summer
Summer road trips are what campervan dreams are made of—but when the sun’s blazing, keeping your cool becomes more than just a state of mind. At Custom Design Campervans, we know how important it is to stay comfortable in your home on wheels, so we’ve pulled together our top tips for keeping cool during those warm-weather adventures.
Whether you’re touring the UK or heading further afield into Europe, these easy hacks will help you beat the heat and enjoy every moment in your Custom Design Campervan.
1. Let the Breeze Flow
Creating a cross-breeze by opening windows or vents on opposite sides of your Custom Design Campervan encourages airflow and keeps air from becoming stagnant. This doesn’t just help with temperature—it can also reduce the risk of mildew and condensation.
2. Dim the Lights
It may sound small, but your lights give off heat—especially halogens or older bulbs. Consider switching to LED lighting if you haven’t already. It’s cooler, brighter, and uses far less energy.
3. Head for Higher Ground
Mountains mean cooler temps. It’s simple science—the higher you go, the cooler it gets. If the heatwave hits, consider rerouting to a hilltop retreat. Your Custom Design Campervan can handle the climb—and you’ll sleep easier in the crisp mountain air.
4. Fans That Won’t Drain Your Juice
USB-powered fans are a game-changer. They’re compact, energy-efficient, and don’t tie up your main plug sockets. Pop one by your bed or seating area and enjoy a cool breeze without worrying about power consumption.
5. Park Smart
One of the easiest ways to cool down your campervan is also the most overlooked—park in the shade! Trees, buildings, even tall hedges can provide natural cover and lower the temperature inside dramatically. Just be mindful of tree sap or falling branches.
6. Cool Tech: Portable A/C
If you’re staying at a site with an electric hook-up, why not bring along a portable air conditioning unit? It saves you having to run your vehicle’s engine or air con system, which can guzzle fuel. A worthwhile investment if you’re planning a longer trip during peak summer.
7. Use the Sun (or Avoid It!)
When setting up at a site, try putting your awning on the sunniest side of the van to create a shady buffer zone. This is especially helpful if you’re heading to sunny European destinations. A little planning—like figuring out which direction is south—can go a long way. Some campsites may have rules about orientation though, so always check first!
8. Blinds Down, Heat Out
Keep your blinds or curtains closed during the hottest part of the day. This simple trick can block out a surprising amount of heat, especially when you combine it with a reflective windscreen cover to stop the sun from turning your dashboard into a mini oven.
9. Cook Outside the Box
Using your cooker or hob heats up the inside quickly. Instead, set up an outdoor kitchen area, use a portable BBQ, or cook with an air fryer, which gives off far less heat. Your Custom Design Campervan will stay cooler—and smell fresher too.
10. Water, Water Everywhere
Parking near water—like a lake, river, or even the sea—can help keep the surrounding air cooler. Just be aware that insects like cool spots too, so bring citronella candles or insect screens to keep them at bay.
