Surviving the Scorching Summer in a Van

After enduring three months of intense summer heat in Albania, with temperatures soaring above 45°C, we've learned a thing or two about staying cool in a van. From creative DIY shade solutions to practical cooling techniques and strategic parking tips, this guide is packed with insights that will help you thrive during the hottest months on the road. Whether you're planning your own summer van adventure or just looking for ways to beat the heat, our tried and true advice will keep you comfortable and safe.

VAN LIFE

Darian & Ollie

9/7/20244 min read

Surviving Summer in a Van: Our 3 Month Experience in Albania

After spending a whole three months of summer in Albania, with temperatures often soaring above 45 degrees, we've learned a lot about surviving in the heat while living in a van. From battling relentless sun to finding creative ways to stay cool, here's how we managed to make it through the hottest days.

1. Ventilation and Airflow

Skylights and 12V Fans: While we don’t have a dedicated ventilation fan (though we wish we did), our skylights provide a bit of fresh air. To enhance airflow, we use 12V desk fans to push the air around, which makes a noticeable difference on those sweltering days.
Ice Packs and Free Ice: For those with a fridge, maintaining a cooler environment is crucial. We scrape ice from the top of the fridge and use it in a bag for an instant, refreshing cool down free ice at its best.
Keep It Shaded: Using reflective covers on the windows and a curtain behind the cab, we create our own DIY shade, helping to keep the van interior cooler.

2. Cooling Techniques

Cooling Towels and Beverages: We use cooling towels by dampening them with cold water and draping them around our necks or wrists. Additionally, a cold can of beer can provide instant relief from the heat.
Manage Fridge Temperature: We keep our fridge at the optimal temperature to prevent it from working too hard and generating excess heat.
Outdoor Shower or Makeshift Shower: We created a makeshift outdoor shower using a bottle and some string, which has been a lifesaver for cooling off when the temperatures soar. If you have access to an outdoor shower or can create a simple one yourself, it's an excellent way to beat the heat. (Use string and a six litre bottle)
Opt for No-Cook Meals: Prepare meals that don’t require cooking, such as salads, sandwiches, or fresh fruit. This helps keep the van cooler and provides light, refreshing food options.
Cook outside: Goes without saying, get yourself a portable cooker or bbq and cook outside.

3. Strategic Parking and Shade

DIY Shade Solutions: We bought a sun shade from JYSK in Tirana. We tied it to the top of our van and use things like trees lamp posts or even other vans.
Park Strategically: When parking, we make sure to consider the sun’s position. We park the van facing the sun and use curtains to block the heat. However, beware if you rely on solar panels you’ll need to balance the need for shade with the necessity of generating power. This is something that caught us out a few times.

4. Efficient Use of Appliances

Limit Appliance Use: We try to avoid using energy intensive appliances during the hottest part of the day, as they can generate additional heat. Instead, we plan our activities around the cooler morning and evening hours.
Maximize Natural Light: Rather than relying on lights during the day, we make the most of natural light to keep the van cooler and reduce the need for artificial lighting.

5. Additional Tips

Park in the Mountains: Parking in higher altitudes usually means cooler temperatures. This is something we've learned to seek out when the heat becomes too intense at sea level.
Park Near Water: Whether it’s by a river, lake, or the sea, being near water provides an easy way to cool off with a quick dip. It’s also a great spot to park your van to enjoy the breeze.
Avoid Peak Heat Hours: We adjust our schedule to be active during the cooler parts of the day early mornings and late evenings while taking it easy during the peak heat hours.
Clothing: Baggy is best, thin items that you don't mind being a bit smelly, swim wear for the girls that passes for casual wear and we even invested in a bandana which helps collect moisture from your forehead and prevents it entering your eyes.
Stay Hydrated: Always have plenty of water on hand, and drink regularly throughout the day to stay hydrated. We’ve learned that hydration is key to staying comfortable in extreme heat.

No matter what we did, we had to come to terms with the fact that most days and nights, we were going to be sticky. While we’d like to say that you get used to it over time, there were moments when all we craved a cool day and a cold shower. It’s hard to stay comfortable when you’re sitting in the shade, trying to read a book and sweat is still dripping from every place possible, like who knew your knees could get sweaty. But in the end, it’s all worth it!

We Want to Hear from You!

Do you have any tips or tricks for surviving summer in a van? We’d love to hear your ideas and experiences! Feel free to connect with us on social media and share your suggestions. Your insights could help others make the most of their van life adventures.