How to Stay Cool During Summer Camping Trips

Hot weather camping is a favorite for many people. However, hot weather camping isn’t something that should be done spur of the moment. It takes a lot of planning and preparation. Here are some things that you should know, and things you should do, to stay cool during summer camping!

1. Understand that sweating is how your body cools off. If you are in an area that is very humid and moist, your skin may have a tough time cooling down because the moisture doesn’t evaporate easily. To encourage evaporation move around and try to camp in the breeziest areas you can find.
2. You will need to replace the water you lose through perspiration. Drink enough water to keep your urine light colored or clear. If your urine is dark, your body needs more water or electrolytes. Avoid coffee or energy drinks because they take fluids from the body.
3. Wear light colored fabrics that are breathable and comfortable. Polyester or nylon works well and dries quickly. Wear a hat.
4. If you find yourself in a camping area that is infested with biting bugs, you’ll need to wear a long sleeved shirt and long pants. Apply a DEET-based insect repellent and pay special attention to your neck, ears, hands, and ankles.
5. Wear a waterproof sunscreen and lip balm that is at least SPF 15.
6. If you can’t find a shady spot to camp, make a canopy out of a tarp by tying it between trees.
7. Make sure you have the correct season rated sleeping bag and supplies. You will be miserable, and sweaty if you are in a winter bag. Lighter and cooler bedding works the best in the summertime.
8. If you are camping in a dry, hot region and you don’t expect rain or high humidity, you can remove the rain fly from the tent.
9. Sleeping in a tent may be too hot and stuffy. If you sleep on the ground outdoors put a sleeping pad beneath you.
10. Have two coolers, one for drinks and one for food. Having two coolers will keep your food nice and cold as it won’t be affected by the constant opening and closing of the cooler that occurs when people go after drinks.
11. If you plan to camp for more than two days in the heat, you will need to have finished off the food that you’ve brought that needs to be cold, or you’ll need to go for more ice.
12. Educate yourself and learn how to recognize and treat health problems that could result from hot weather.

This is just the beginning of what you should know, and do, if you are going to be camping in hot weather. It’s a good idea to read a hot weather survival manual before you embark on any major camping trips in very hot regions.

For more tips on how stay cool during summer camping, check out: Tips to Keep Cool in the Summer Heat!

Featured Image from Xavier Coiffic/Unsplash