Camping in the summer brings lots of fond memories, but there are also the not-so-fond moments. We’re talking about the sweltering tent by 8am, or the winter sleeping bag that’s just too hot to sleep in. 

We’ve had some very hot weather in the UK recently, with more on the horizon, so here are the tips we’d recommend for staying cool on your next camping trip.

Choosing the right tent for hot weather

Your tent has a bigger impact on how comfortable you’ll be than most people realise, so it’s worth thinking about more than just size and price.

For the best material in hot weather, we’d recommend polycotton. It’s a blend of cotton and polyester that is naturally breathable and helps regulate temperature far better than a fully synthetic tent, keeping the inside noticeably cooler during the warmer months.

Blackout tents are also well worth considering. They can block up to 99% of daylight, which not only keeps the interior cooler but helps you sleep for longer too, even when the sun is up early. The one thing to watch for is ventilation, as blackout tents can feel stuffy if airflow is poor, so look for one with built-in vents.

Where and how your pitch makes a difference

It’s not just the tent itself, the position you choose can change your whole camping experience. In the warmer months, try to:

• Pitch in the shade where possible
• Avoid facing slopes that catch all-day sun
• Leave the tent doors open to help with airflow
• Use a footprint to keep the ground heat from rising through the tent floor

Sleeping cool and the right kit for warm nights

For the coolest night’s sleep, make sure you’re equipped with the right tog sleeping bag. Look for one that’s lightweight with a comfort rating between 7 and 15 degrees. Steer clear of a four-season sleeping bag, as these are designed for much colder conditions and will leave you overheating.

A breathable sleeping mat is another summer essential. They help prevent your body overheating by allowing heat and moisture to escape, making your night far more comfortable when the temperature doesn’t drop much after dark.

Keeping your camp comfortable during the day

It’s not always possible to find a shaded pitch, so a good tarp, pop-up shelter or camping canopy over your seating area can make all the difference.

For a gazebo, the Quest Stafford 3x3m Folding Gazebo is a great choice. It’s an easy-up, pop-up design, meaning it’s simple to transport and assemble without any tools or complicated fixings.

It’s also worth investing in a lightweight chair with a breathable mesh back. These stay noticeably cooler than padded alternatives during the summer months and make sitting out in the heat far more relaxing.

Food, drink and staying hydrated

A few essentials worth packing for hot weather camping:

• Cool boxes, to keep food fresh and safe in storage
• Insulated water bottles, to keep your water cooler for longer
• Camping fridges, for storing food over a longer trip

Beyond your kit, it’s worth thinking about what you wear too. Stick to light, loose and breathable layers, and don’t forget plenty of sun cream and a hat to protect your face from the sun.

Everything you need for summer camping at Norwich Camping & Leisure

Whatever the weather throws at you this summer, we’ve got everything you need to stay cool and comfortable on your next camping trip. From tents and sleeping bags to gazebos, chairs and cool boxes, you’ll find it all in store and online.

Pop in and see our team in Blofield, Norfolk, who’ll be happy to help you find the right kit for your trip. Or browse our full range of tents and camping accessories online.