How to Stay Cool While Camping in Summertime
Summer is the perfect time to get out of the big city for a weekend and explore the beautiful forests, mountains, and waterways of the East Coast. However, if your planned camping trip occurs during a heat wave, staying cool can be a challenge. Here are some practical tips to help you beat the heat and enjoy your summer camping trip to the fullest.
1. Choose the Right Campsite
Opt for Shady Spots
Great trip up to the gorgeous Maine coastline, where we camped in Acadia National Park.
When selecting a campsite, look for areas with plenty of natural shade. Trees and vegetation can provide much-needed relief from the sun's intense rays. Aim for a spot that will be shaded during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM. If your spot is already booked, with no shade options nearby, make sure you bring a tarp to create your own shade or a canopy tent for easy set-up and take-down.
Elevation Matters
Higher elevations tend to be cooler. If possible, choose a campsite that is higher up to benefit from cooler temperatures and more refreshing breezes. This is one of the reasons we love camping in the Catskills, as well as the Poconos, Berkshires, and the Maine coastline.
2. Time Your Activities
Early Morning and Late Afternoon
Plan your more strenuous activities, like hiking or biking, for the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Use the midday heat to relax, read a book, or take a nap in a shaded area.
3. Dress Appropriately
Light and Breathable Fabrics
Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable materials such as cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics. These will help keep you cool and dry by allowing sweat to evaporate more easily.
Hats and Sunglasses
A wide-brimmed hat can provide extra shade and help keep the sun off your face and neck. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the intense sunlight.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is crucial in the heat. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up on you, especially when you're active. Consider bringing a hydration pack if you enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, and other strenuous outdoor actives.
Electrolyte Supplements
Consider packing electrolyte supplements or drinks to help replenish the salts and minerals lost through sweat. This can help prevent heat exhaustion and keep you feeling your best.
Watermelon Refresher
This simple, refreshing drink is perfect for staying cool during your summer camping trips. It's easy to make, packed with flavor, and hydrating. Here's how you can make it:
Ingredients:
Half a watermelon, seeded and chopped
Juice of one lemon
Four cubes of Dorot frozen ginger
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Cut the watermelon into small chunks and remove the seeds.
Squeeze the juice from one lemon.
Blend the Ingredients:
In blender (we love our Vitamix) combine the watermelon chunks, lemon juice, and frozen ginger cubes.
Blend until smooth.
Store:
Pour the blended mixture into two mason jars.
Seal the jars tightly and keep them chilled in a cooler until you're ready to enjoy.
Serve:
Shake the mason jars gently before serving.
Pour into cups and enjoy a refreshing, cooling beverage perfect for those hot summer days.
Tips:
Keep it Cold: Make sure to pack your mason jars in a cooler with plenty of ice or ice packs to keep the drink cold.
Add a Twist: For an extra refreshing twist, you can add a few fresh mint leaves to the blender.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a bit of honey or agave syrup to taste.
This Watermelon Refresher is not only delicious but also hydrating and revitalizing, making it the perfect companion for your camping adventures. We loved it on our last trip - Thanks, Jared, for the recipe!
5. Create a Cool Sleeping Environment
Ventilated Tent
Use a well-ventilated tent with mesh windows and vents to allow air to flow through. If your tent feels too hot, consider taking an afternoon nap in a hammock under a shady tree instead.
Sleeping Pads and Bags
Opt for a lightweight sleeping bag or even opt to sleep on top of your bag and pad, under a sheet or light blanket.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise
Staying up late around the campfire is fun, but you might pay for it in the morning. When the weather is sweltering, it’s best to go to bed earlier and wake up at 6 or 7 am, before the sun starts beating down on your tent. This will keep you from feeling like you’re being baked in your sleep.
6. Use Cooling Accessories
Portable Fans
Battery-operated or USB-powered fans can be a lifesaver on a hot night. Keep a hand-held version handy throughout the day and place a hanging fan inside your tent to keep the air circulating and help you stay cool while you sleep.
Cooling Towels
Soak a cooling towel in water, wring it out, and drape it around your neck or over your head. These towels are designed to stay cool for extended periods and can provide instant relief from the heat.
7. Take Advantage of Water
Nearby Lakes and Streams
If your campsite is near a lake, river, or stream, take regular dips to cool off. Swimming or even just splashing your face and arms with cool water can help regulate your body temperature.
Water Misting
Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it handy for misting yourself. Or grab a combo misting/water bottle to maximize cooling and hydration. A light spray on your face and neck can provide immediate cooling relief.
8. Eat Light and Refreshing Meals
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Opt for meals that are light and easy to digest. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be particularly refreshing and hydrating. Prepare ahead of time by pre-chopping your vegetables and packing hummus and other veggie-friendly dips.
Avoid Heavy, Hot Foods
Save the hearty stews and hot soups for cooler weather. Instead, enjoy salads, sandwiches, and other cool meals that won't raise your body temperature. We love making a delicious mediterranean salad by topping a bed of romaine hearts with Trader Joes faves like dolmas, tabouli, balela, olives, tzatziki and sheep’s milk feta. You can grill up chicken breasts or opt for prepackaged grilled chicken strips to avoid using the grill altogether.
9. Be Mindful of Heat-Related Illnesses
Know the Signs
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and a rapid pulse. If you or someone in your group experiences these symptoms, seek shade, hydrate, and cool down immediately. In severe cases, seek medical attention. Keep a first aid book handy for improving your knowledge on a variety of potential health issues and their off-grid prevention and treatment.
Conclusion
Camping in the summertime offers an incredible opportunity to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. By taking a few precautions and being mindful of the heat, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you're exploring the lush forests of Pennsylvania, the scenic mountains of New York, or the picturesque waterways of New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, staying cool will help you make the most of your summer adventure.