How to Keep Cool in Your Caravan or Motorhome During the UK Summer
- IDS Camping & Leisure
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 20
Summer touring in the UK is a joy — long days, beautiful views, and time spent outdoors. But while the sun may be welcome, it can quickly turn your caravan or motorhome into a sweltering box.
Whether you’re pitched up at the coast or parked inland, staying cool is key to comfort, sleep, and safety. In this post, we share practical, effective tips to help you beat the heat and enjoy your summer trips.
☀️ 1. Park Smart
Where and how you park can make a huge difference:
Find shade — Position your vehicle under trees or in shaded pitches where possible.
Face the fridge side away from the sun to reduce heat load on your fridge. Consider a DIY fridge fan to keep your fridge cool click here
Park into the breeze to take advantage of any natural airflow through windows or vents.
🪟 2. Create Cross Ventilation
Open windows or vents on opposite sides of your van to allow a cooling breeze to flow through. Roof vents and skylights help hot air escape upward.
For even better airflow, consider adding a 12V fan extractor to your roof vent
🌀 3. Use 12V Fans or Portable Fans
A small 12V fan can go a long way. Use:
Clip-on fans for directed airflow while sleeping
Oscillating fans to move air throughout the living space
Roof-mounted extractor fans to pull hot air out
Place frozen drinks bottles in front of your fans this can also drop the temperature
🧊 4. Stay Cool Inside
Close blinds and curtains during peak sun to block radiant heat.
Use reflective thermal blinds or silver screens for windows and skylights.
Lay down cool mats or swap heavy bedding for light cotton sheets.
💧 5. Stay Hydrated & Chill Out
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Keep a refillable water bottle handy while driving or relaxing.
Store drinks in a cool box with ice packs to reduce fridge load.
💡 Tip: Freeze water bottles overnight and use them as mini air coolers in front of a fan!
🚿 6. Make Use of Your Awning
Your awning is more than just extra space — it’s a sun shield.
Set it up early in the day to block direct sunlight from hitting your van.
Consider awning side panels or sun blockers to reduce radiant heat from all angles.
Enjoy shaded meals and relaxing time outside while your van stays cooler inside.
🧽 7. Avoid Heat-Building Activities
Cook outdoors with a BBQ or gas stove instead of using the oven or hob inside.
Shower in the mornings or evenings when it’s cooler.
Reduce use of electrical appliances that generate heat.
❄️ Bonus Tip: Portable Air Coolers
A portable evaporative air cooler (not quite an air-con unit, but close) can make a surprising difference — especially in drier areas or during still evenings. They’re compact, lightweight, and ideal for caravanning.
🛒 Keep Cool with IDS Camping & Leisure
All our Flamefield break resistant drink ware come with reusable ice cubes.
🚐 In Summary
UK summers may be short, but they can be surprisingly hot — especially inside a caravan or motorhome. With a few smart choices and affordable accessories, you can stay cool, sleep better, and enjoy the sunshine the way it’s meant to be enjoyed.
Got your own cooling tip? Drop it in the comments or visit us in-store — we’d love to hear it!
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