Keeping Cool in a Camper: Simple Tips for Summer Comfort

How to beat the heat when travelling in your campervan

As the weather warms up and campervan season kicks off, one of the most common questions we hear is:

 “How do you keep a camper van cool?”

It’s a good one—and the answer is: with a few smart tricks, it’s absolutely doable. Campervans can get warm in the summer, but that doesn’t mean your adventures have to feel like an oven on wheels. Here’s how to keep things breezy on the road.

Why Do Camper Vans Get Hot in Summer?

The body of a campervan absorbs and traps heat, especially in direct sunlight. Without airflow or shade, it doesn’t take long for things to heat up inside. That’s why planning ahead and making a few tweaks to your setup can make all the difference.

Top Tips to Stay Cool in Your Camper

1. Park in the Shade

Whenever possible, choose a pitch with natural shade—under trees or next to buildings. It might sound basic, but avoiding direct sun is one of the most effective ways to manage heat.

2. Maximise Ventilation

Pop the roof, open the windows, and let the air flow. Creating a cross-breeze helps move hot air out and cooler air in. If you’ve got mesh panels in your pop-top, unzip them to let heat escape while keeping bugs out.

3. Use Reflective Window Covers

Windscreen and window covers with reflective insulation will keep the sun’s rays from turning your van into a greenhouse. They’re especially useful if you’re parked up for several hours in the middle of the day.

4. Install a Fan or Roof Vent

A roof fan or vent can dramatically improve airflow, especially when combined with open windows. If your van doesn’t have one, a 12v or battery-powered fan is a great alternative when you’re off-grid.

5. Light Colours Help

If you’re planning a new build or upgrade, opt for lighter colours inside and on the exterior. Paler cabinetry and upholstery reflect light and make the interior feel cooler and more open.

How to Cool a Camper Quickly

If your van’s been baking in the sun, try this quick cool-down method:

• Open all windows, doors, and the pop-top
  
• Use a fan to push hot air out and pull cooler air in
  
• Hang a damp towel in front of the fan for an evaporative cooling effect
  
• Use the fan setting on your diesel heater to circulate air
  
• Wait for the temperature to drop—shade and sunset work wonders
  

Other Handy Ideas

• Travel early or late to avoid the midday heat
  
• Use your awning to create instant outdoor living space
  
• Stay hydrated with cool drinks from your onboard fridge
  
• Cook outside to avoid warming up the van interior
  

Built with Summer in Mind

At Rising Sun Campers, our builds are made to be enjoyed year-round. We use high-quality insulation, privacy-tinted windows, elevating roofs, and thoughtful layouts that keep you cool in summer and cosy in winter.

Looking for a van that’s summer-ready?

Check out our current campervans for sale or contact us to talk about a custom build.