As an RV owner, you likely wait in anticipation all year to take a summer vacation or two. The summer months are great for RV travel because of the warm weather, long days, and abundant activities to enjoy. However, the only downside of summer RV life is the heat. If you encounter a patch of hot temperatures during your trip, it can be hard to keep everyone happy and comfortable. But don’t give up on your summer RV dreams! We’re here to show you how to keep your RV cool in the summer with some easy preparation and planning.
The Obvious Answer
The easiest and most effective way to keep your RV cool in the summer is to have an air conditioner available. With an air conditioner on board, you’ll have the ability to cool the cabin to just the right temperature. And, since RVs don’t have as much interior space as a typical house, they don’t need to use much cooling power to bring the temperature down to a comfortable range.
Even if you already have an air conditioner in place, you still can’t take your comfort for granted. Before your summer trips arrive, it’s important to test the A/C to make sure it’s working correctly. Any maintenance issues should be taken care of in advance, so your unit will be ready to get the job done when the time arrives.
Create a Breeze
Even if you don’t have air conditioning—or if you do but aren’t connected to the power needed to run it—you can cool your space by properly using the windows. Most RVs have plenty of windows that can be turned open to promote airflow. The key is to open windows on both sides of the RV to allow a cross breeze to develop. Even a gentle breeze moving through the cabin can make your RV feel more comfortable than the temperature would indicate.
Seals Play a Crucial Role
The seals on your RV play a vital role. Not only do they keep moisture out of the cabin, but they can also help to maintain a comfortable temperature on hot days. With an air conditioner running, you’ll be better able to keep the cool air inside the cabin if your seals are in good shape. RV by LIFE offers a selection of RV sealant products to help you tackle this important maintenance task before your next trip.
Park Strategically
Believe it or not, the way you park your RV when you arrive at your destination will go a long way toward determining how cool it stays during the day. There are two elements to keep in mind as you park: RV positioning and shade.
First, let’s discuss RV positioning. As you pick out a camp spot and park your RV, think about where the sun will be during the hottest part of the day (usually the late afternoon). Do your best to park the RV so the side with the fewest windows is facing the sun. This should help limit how hot it gets inside the rig during your stay.
Along with smart positioning, shade can work wonders in keeping you cool. When possible, find a spot to park where your RV will benefit from some shade. If you have air conditioning, finding a shady spot to park will mean your unit doesn’t have to work as hard. Even a relatively small tree can filter the sun and go a long way toward making your trip more comfortable.
Shop RV by LIFE
We hope you’ve learned how to keep your RV cool in the summer! Be sure to get your RV in top shape for all of your upcoming adventures by browsing our products from RV by LIFE.
