5 Mistakes Every Caravanner Makes in Summer (and How to Fix Them)

There’s nothing like a summer trip in your caravan or motorhome - the weather’s usually on your side, the days are longer, and it’s ideal for exploring. But with the sunshine comes the challenge of keeping your van cool and your sleeping space comfortable. 

We see the same seasonal mistakes made time and again by even the most seasoned caravanners. If you’ve ever found yourself tossing and turning on a warm night, or regretting parking in the full sun, you’re not alone. Here are five common summer mistakes caravanners make – and the simple fixes that can make your travels far more enjoyable. 

1. Cooking Inside Your Caravan on Hot Days 

The mistake: It might seem convenient to rustle up a meal inside your caravan, but during summer, it’s one of the quickest ways to overheat the space. Cooking generates lots of heat, especially in a small, enclosed area. Without proper ventilation, temperatures can rise rapidly and linger long after the meal is finished, making your living space uncomfortably warm. 

The solution: Whenever the weather allows, take your cooking outdoors. Whether it’s a gas camping stove, a portable BBQ, or even a compact induction hob used under an awning, cooking outside helps keep the heat where it belongs – out of your caravan. Not only will it make a noticeable difference to the temperature inside, but it also adds to the relaxed summer atmosphere we all love on holiday. 

2. Using Heat-Trapping Caravan Bedding 

The mistake: Many caravanners stick with the same bedding they use year-round. This often includes sheets made from synthetic materials, high-tog duvets, and standard mattress protectors – all of which can trap heat and disrupt your sleep during warmer weather. 

The solution: A few simple bedding swaps can completely transform your summer sleeping experience. First, invest in a high-quality cotton mattress protector designed for caravans or motorhomes. Cotton is naturally breathable and will help regulate your temperature throughout the night. 

Next, opt for a lightweight 4.5 tog duvet, ideally shaped to fit your caravan bed. These lower tog duvets provide the comfort you need without the weight and warmth of a winter option. Lastly, choose cotton caravan bed sheets over synthetic alternatives. Cotton’s natural fibres allow air to circulate, keeping you cool and dry through the night. 

These small changes make a big impact, helping you avoid restless, overheated nights and wake up feeling refreshed and ready for your next adventure. 

3. Parking Your Caravan in Full Sun 

The mistake: Finding a sunny pitch might feel like a win – until your caravan starts to resemble a greenhouse by the early afternoon. Without shade, your van’s interior can quickly heat up, and unless you take steps to reduce solar heat gain, it can stay that way well into the evening. 

The solution: The key is to park smart. Whenever possible, choose a shaded pitch or position your van so the largest windows aren’t facing directly into the sun. Use awnings or canopies to add shade to exterior walls and windows – this not only cools the space but can also extend your usable living area. 

Closing blinds or thermal curtains during the day is another simple yet effective step to prevent heat build-up. If you want to go one step further, consider adding reflective window film or sun shades to your cab area – these are especially effective in motorhomes where large front windows act like magnifying glasses for heat. 

4. Choosing a Non-Breathable Caravan Mattress 

The mistake: Foam mattresses are popular due to their comfort and affordability, but in summer, they have a major drawback – they trap heat. Traditional memory foam responds to body heat, softening for pressure relief, but in a warm caravan, this can result in an overly warm and clammy night’s sleep. 

The solution: Choose a breathable caravan mattress made with natural fillings such as wool, silk, or cotton. These materials naturally regulate temperature and wick away moisture, helping you stay cool and dry. Not only are they more suitable for summer conditions, but they also tend to be more comfortable and durable long-term.  

If replacing your mattress isn’t an option just yet, consider adding a cooling topper infused with gel, which can offer relief without a full mattress swap. 

5. Keeping Your Windows Closed 

The mistake: Many caravanners keep their windows and doors shut during hot days, either to keep insects out or to avoid warm air coming in. But poor ventilation is one of the biggest contributors to a stuffy, uncomfortable caravan interior. 

The solution: Good airflow is essential in hot weather. During the day, open windows and doors that aren’t in direct sun to encourage natural ventilation. To take things further, place a fan near an open window to pull in cooler air and push out warmer air – this simple trick works surprisingly well in smaller spaces. 

Use roof vents or skylights to create a chimney effect; since heat rises, opening vents at the top of your caravan allows hot air to escape while drawing cooler air in from below. If you regularly tour in hot climates, investing in a portable or built-in air conditioning unit may be worth it for the extra comfort it brings during peak summer months. 

Stay Cool and Sleep Well This Summer 

Caravanning in summer should be a joy – and with a few practical adjustments, it can be. Whether it’s parking in the right spot, switching to breathable bedding, or upgrading your mattress, small changes can make a world of difference to your comfort. 

If you’re looking to sleep better on your next summer adventure, our range of cooling caravan mattress toppers, breathable caravan mattresses, and cotton caravan bedding is custom made for your caravan or motorhome. 

Explore our summer sleep solutions and enjoy cooler, calmer nights – wherever your wheels take you.