Blog Layout

How To Keep Your RV Cool In Summer?

March 27, 2024

As the sun stretches its hot rays across the land, summer is difficult for us and our vehicles. The scorching heat and unfavorable weather conditions create a struggle for all of us. People start insulating and using the 50- or 30-amp RVers' electrical systems to cool off the heat.


With its assistance, we relish the cozy environment within the interiors. However, we forget that our RVs must also be cooled as their bodies are thin and reflect heat. This makes it more prone to overheating, resulting in the prolonged usage of air conditions every day and sky-high energy bills. 


To avoid such skyrocketing bills and maintain the cool temper of your RV, here are the best tricks and tips on how to keep RV cool in summer. Therefore, without any further delay, let's delve deeper into these strategies so that it's ready to offer a cooling experience during harsh summer days. 

Best Practices for keeping RV cool in extreme heat

These tips aren't just tips but a beacon of hope for RV owners who extensively use RVs in Arizona's summers. By strictly adhering to these guidelines during heat waves, anyone can relish the cool air without breaking the bank. 

Parking RV in the Shaded Areas: 

It's one of the best solutions that can come in handy for individuals possessing at least one electric hookup for operating air conditioners. However, it's pivotal to understand that parking an RV also plays a vital role in cooling it. For instance, if you're parking the RV under direct sunlight, the AC will operate vigorously, and cooling costs will increase drastically. 

Therefore, choosing shaded areas with plenty of fresh airflow can help cool RVs. One can also explore boondocking in the shade for a few nights. Under this procedure, shade can work for a few nights, and batteries are sufficient to keep fans moving without consuming additional solar power.


Using Microwavable Bean Bags for Personal Cooling 

When we discuss 'How to keep your RV Cool in Arizona,' this is the most conventional practice that most people have implemented. If we look at it logically, then this tactic will not maintain the RV's cool temper. But still, the microwavable bean bags of rice can easily hold the cold. 

To start this procedure, the individual has to put the bean bag on the lap after at least a 20-minute stay in the freezer. This will later cool down the entire body on hot summer days. One can even use the fresh-out-of-the-freezer microwavable bean bags on one's feet to maintain the cool.                                       

Smart Window Orientation and Awning Usage

If you are searching for the best way to keep an RV cool in extreme heat, then the smart window orientation and awning is another excellent trick. But before that, we must understand that RVs are designed with awning space for a specific reason, which most people neglect. 

It's used beyond to get shelter outside while sitting. The main purpose of this product is to provide great shade to a large portion of the rig. The amount of shade can be easily increased. The person can even attach the sunshades with the awning to double the shade and reduce the sun's heat. 


Pulling Window Shades Down for Cooling RV

This is the most practical method widely adopted to keep RVs cool in summer. Pulling the window shades down allows you to seamlessly omit the sun's heat waves from turning your rig into a gas chamber. Indeed, it's a great way to mitigate heat while balancing the temperatures. 

At present, it's been seen that most of the windows open partially, so it becomes crucial for us to pull blinds down from the point where windows open and block the significant part of the sun so that the excellent breezy flow continues to enter. 


Using a Dehumidifier or Portable Fans Over Portable ACs 

Another answer to 'how to keep RV cool in summer' is a dehumidifier. It's been witnessed that dehumidifiers consume much less energy than air conditioners. In line with this, they don't require vents to perform well in harsh, humid climatic conditions. As RV is a congested place with a small area, eradicating the heat is not a rigid task with this practice. 

Also, if anyone does not have the energy to operate a dehumidifier for hours, then using a portable fan is another excellent alternative. It does not even feast upon a large amount of electricity. Additionally, its gentle, soft breeze can easily beat the heat on hot days with a minimal power requirement. 


Insulated Window Covers For Enhanced Cooling Efficiency

Insulated RV Window covers, or Reflectix, are specialized components with silver bubble wrap designed to flawlessly manage extreme heat. In contrast to blinds, which allow heat to enter through RV windows, the RV window covers to mitigate the heat from entering the RV. 

Well, it's a great solution. However, the only bane is that it almost blocks the illumination coming from light. Due to this, an individual needs to switch on more lights, which generates heat and invites unimaginable bills. So, if you're boondocking to capture the scenic beauty, then it would be unnecessary to use RV windows to keep the RV cool in summer. 


In short, beating the summer heat while keeping your RV cool requires strategic planning and utilization of available resources. From parking in shaded areas to using microwavable bean bags for personal cooling, every step counts when it's about keeping your RV cool in Arizona. Smart window orientation, awning usage, and insulated window cover enhance cooling efficiency. 


Opting for dehumidifiers or portable fans over air conditioners minimizes energy consumption while pulling window shades down aids in temperature balance. By implementing these practical tips, RV enthusiasts can easily navigate scorching temperatures, ensuring a refreshing and enjoyable summer journey without succumbing to skyrocketing energy bills.


Stay tuned to RV Life Arizona for more valuable tips and hacks related to RVs.

A rv is parked in a campground with the sun shining through the trees.
March 26, 2025
Protect your RV from theft with these essential tips for U.S. owners. Learn practical ways to secure your vehicle and enjoy peace of mind on the road.
A rv is parked in a gravel lot with mountains in the background.
February 17, 2025
Discover the best RV campsites in Arizona. Find beautiful locations with great amenities. Plan your next adventure today with our top campsite picks!
A rv is parked in a grassy area with chairs in front of it.
March 27, 2024
New to RV buying? Get essential tips and expert advice to choose the right RV. Avoid mistakes and make your first RV purchase with confidence!
A man in a mask is trying to break into a car.
By Scott Cameron March 27, 2024
Safeguard your RV with proven anti-theft strategies. Learn effective ways to secure your RV and prevent theft. Stay protected on your adventures!
A row of rvs are parked in a grassy field
March 27, 2024
Find the best RV for your needs. Explore different RV types and get expert advice to select the perfect one for your travel lifestyle. Start here!
A camper with a tray of tools hanging out of the door.
March 27, 2024
Prepare for your RV adventure with our essential pre-trip checklist. Ensure a smooth and safe journey with these expert tips before hitting the road!
A girl is holding a small white dog in the back seat of a car.
March 27, 2024
Ready to buy your first RV? Learn where to begin, what to consider, and make the best choice for your travels. Start your RV buying journey today!
Share by: