Beat the Heat! RV Hacks for Staying Cool This Summer

Summer is here, and with it comes scorching temperatures that can turn your RV into an uncomfortable oven. But fear not, fellow roamers! We, the Roaming Gomes, are full-time RV travelers who've experienced our fair share of scorching summers on the road. In this blog, we'll share some of our tried-and-true hacks to keep your RV cool and comfortable, even in the hottest weather.

Finding Shade is Key

The first line of defense against the summer heat is simple: find shade! When choosing a campsite, prioritize spots with trees or natural shade features. This might mean sacrificing a perfect Starlink connection, but a cool RV is a happy RV (and trust us, heatstroke is no fun). We learned this the hard way in Tucson, Arizona, where the relentless sun beat down on our RV park with very little shade.

Reflective Window Coverings: Use Them Wisely

Reflective window coverings are a popular RV cooling choice, but using them incorrectly can backfire. They work by reflecting sunlight away from the windows, preventing the interior from heating up. However, placing them inside the RV traps heat between the window and the covering, making things worse! Always use reflective window coverings on the outside of your windows.

Maximize Your Air Conditioner's Efficiency

Your air conditioner is your friend in the summer heat, but it can only do so much. Here are some tips to get the most out of your AC unit:

• Clean your air conditioner filters regularly. Dust and pet hair can clog the filters, reducing airflow and forcing the AC to work harder.
• Take advantage of natural ventilation whenever possible. Open windows and vents in the cooler morning and evening hours to bring in fresh air. Just be sure to close them up again during the hottest part of the day.
• Consider removing vent covers. This might seem counterintuitive, but some RV vent covers can restrict airflow. We were surprised by the difference it made in our RV's coolness after removing the vent covers! (Check out our video for a more detailed explanation)

Cool Yourself Down and Stay Hydrated

Staying cool and hydrated is crucial during hot weather. Here are some simple tips:

• Drink plenty of water! Dehydration is a serious risk in hot weather, so keep a reusable water bottle handy and sip frequently.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing. This will help reflect sunlight and keep you cooler.
• Take advantage of mist fans. A small mist fan can make a big difference in a dry climate by creating a cooling effect.

Cooking Hacks for a Cooler RV

Avoid turning your RV into a furnace by adjusting your cooking habits during the summer months.

• Cook outdoors whenever possible. Fire up the grill or enjoy no-cook meals like salads.
• Utilize alternative cooking methods. A microwave or Ninja Foodi can generate less heat than a traditional oven.
• Plan meals that don't require extensive cooking. Salads, sandwiches, and cold cuts are all great options for hot weather.

Planning Your Route to Avoid the Inferno

While we love exploring new places, sometimes it's wise to be strategic about your travels during the summer. Consider avoiding notoriously hot regions like southern Arizona and Death Valley in the peak summer months. There are plenty of beautiful places to explore with more moderate summer temperatures.

Stay Cool and Keep Roaming!

By following these tips and tricks, you can keep your RV cool and comfortable all summer long. For a more in-depth look at these hacks, and to see some of our mistakes firsthand (like that time in Tucson!), be sure to watch our video Beat the Heat! RV Hacks for Staying Cool This Summer on our YouTube channel, The Roaming Gomes. We hope these tips help you stay cool and keep your RV adventures rolling throughout the summer!