Summer means sunshine, discovery, and freedom on the road. But when a heatwave hits, staying cool can be a real challenge. Fortunately, there are simple, effective ways to enjoy your trip without the heat. Here are our top 6 tips for handling high temperatures in your motorhome.
One of the best ways to beat the heat is to plan your stopovers ahead of time. Choose CAMPING-CAR PARK sites at higher altitudes or near bodies of water (lakes, rivers, the ocean), and look for shaded areas. The good news: the network's Premium Green Camping-Car Park sites, nestled in nature, almost all offer shaded pitches under the trees—perfect for staying cool even in the middle of the afternoon. For instance, regions such as the Alps, Cévennes, or Jura provide cooler nights, even at the peak of summer.
In the morning and evening, create a cross-breeze by opening windows, roof vents, and doors, while keeping screens closed. During the day, close everything and pull the thermal curtains to block the heat. A smart move: park in the right direction to keep your walls in the shade.
A 12V or battery-operated fan can make a world of difference, especially when off-grid. Some models can be mounted to optimise airflow. Paired with a solid leisure battery or a solar setup, they will become your best allies without draining your power.
During a heatwave, don't forget to keep yourself cool too! Misting sprays, wet wipes, cool towels on the back of your neck, or lukewarm showers at equipped sites are your go-to essentials. Across many sites in the Camping de mon village network, you have access to water and sanitary facilities to hydrate and refresh yourself at any time.
Avoid driving or sightseeing during the hottest parts of the day (12 pm–5 pm). Opt for walks early in the morning or in the evening, and enjoy an afternoon siesta in the shade. Thanks to advance booking available with the Privilege Pack, you can plan your stopovers with complete peace of mind, even during peak season.
Fit thermal blinds or insulating screens on your windows to minimise heat build-up. Check your living area's insulation and use light-coloured rugs on the floor. At the same time, make sure to optimise your batteries (solar or leisure) so you can run your small comfort appliances even when camping off-grid.
