My EXACT FORMULA To Survive The Heat In My Minivan With NO A/C & Car Camp All Summer in Florida

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

I'm sharing my exact formula to beat the heat this summer as temps continue to rise, so that you can keep car camping all season long! This will be my 3rd summer solo camping in my no build minivan camper (a Dodge Grand Caravan) and each year I've implemented and tried new methods and hacks and products to enable me to boondock and travel in my vehicle more comfortably here in Florida when the weather is far from ideal. If you haven't seen my first video from last year on the topic, I'll link it below so you can watch it. I didn't want to be repetitive, so I discuss different tips and tricks in that video that are also super useful! I hope you find this video helpful, and that it helps you to keep doing vanlife all year long! ==== Watch my ORIGINAL Heat Beating Video for more great info and hacks here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGi3aH6sfp2ehdU My Lunatec pressurized water bottle video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/aoCqppZ7hbuVn6c My camp projects video showing my DIY screen doors: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gpuoe4udhLyJd5o ==== My setup details **As an Amazon Associate, I do earn a small commission for any qualifying purchases made using the links below, but this is at no additional cost to you, and I only recommend the items I personally use and love. Using these links is a great way to support my channel and ensure that I can continue to deliver quality future content, so thank you in advance for your support - I truly appreciate it! Product Links for Indoor & Outdoor Setup/Items Used: Jackery 240 Power Station: amzn.to/3wIiHgX Jackery 1000 Power Station: amzn.to/3lzmMyP Bluetti EB70S Power Station (800W inverter with 716Wh): amzn.to/3nhu0ft Shower bag: amzn.to/39LSDtM collapsible tea kettle (700W): amzn.to/3XG5Rvd "C" table over bed: amzn.to/3Ki06AQ cup holder phone stand for watching TV: amzn.to/3Kk6veY disposable female urinals (Travel Jane): amzn.to/3EGHebl urinal/reusable no spill bottle: amzn.to/3Z3lWMM portable DVD player: amzn.to/3lLyZ70 string lights: amzn.to/3IxI3oW Luci Light inflatable solar lantern: amzn.to/3YXvJ6U set of mini cooking utensils: amzn.to/3IdBlTD Lunatec pressurized water bottle: amzn.to/3KBgXyX macrame fruit hammock/bag: amzn.to/3lOlwLT Koonie 8" blades rechargeable USB fan with clamp: amzn.to/3lHxBCl cup holder inverter: amzn.to/41bpluz USB mini fan with reading light: amzn.to/3EhsDCE bamboo breakfast tray: amzn.to/3GiXM8Q Hot Logic Mini: amzn.to/3YD1YbV glass Pyrex container: amzn.to/40MXfog Dash Mini Maker Electric Griddle: amzn.to/413y6qF low wattage (300W) BalBali electric kettle: amzn.to/3YD96EV Aeropress coffee maker: amzn.to/3lLFKG5 handheld battery powered milk frother: amzn.to/3kat7DV mesh window screens: amzn.to/3GiXSxe magnetic window curtains: amzn.to/3G8TqAW Alpicool C20 12V car fridge: amzn.to/3MHL9X1 metal utility shelf: amzn.to/3wF2tXp trunk storage unit: amzn.to/3wBFNXY Insulated cooler bag: amzn.to/38FK6IG ergonomic gel memory foam seat cushion: amzn.to/3wBLNjg boot scraper: amzn.to/3z1eaJc side slot cup holders: amzn.to/3wC6IS0 hands free phone cup holder stand: amzn.to/3sTLHS1 hands free phone dash mount: amzn.to/3G8Uvsu LED flameless chargeable lantern: amzn.to/3lE8EVf USB LED light bulb: amzn.to/3yVudZc stained glass "rainbow" decals: - phases of the moon: amzn.to/3WBaxm9 - mandalas: amzn.to/3hJXlfF magic mesh screen doors: amzn.to/41OXq3x mosquito netting: amzn.to/44aPhrU Outdoor rug: amzn.to/3yuV5Pv Folding camp table (aluminum): amzn.to/37GGGF2 Coleman Camp Chair: amzn.to/3L52sQg CLAM Quickset Traveler 6x6ft screen shelter: amzn.to/3G48ql8 privacy panels for screen shelter: amzn.to/3FALXus solar weatherproof outdoor lanterns: amzn.to/3CH8cOC pee cloth: amzn.to/3XkQKJh picnic table and bench covers in bag: amzn.to/3p7CC9z Reading Rainbow tshirt: amzn.to/43Qyqdm spoon/fork/knife camp utensil 2-pack: amzn.to/3Xkgo0p macrame storage bag holder: amzn.to/469besp dehumidifier bags: amzn.to/3JoGslu

[@serenityjewel]

Awesome tips. Keeping the car in the shade, and window covers on as many windows as possible, also keeps the interior furnishings of the vehicle from absorbing heat, which it then releases once the air temperature starts cooling down. Getting medical grade ceramic tint for all the windows in my SUV was a game changer for me in beating the summer heat. Even without the window covers on, the leather interior never got hot to the touch, even in midsummer, in full sun, when the temperature was over 90°F. I also have a GreceYou mosquito net for the hatch which I bought off Amazon. I kept that on at all times - regardless of the season - because it makes it harder for people to see in when I opened the hatch. I also have a TailVeil that I set up if I'm staying in one place for a long time, and a Hasika awning tent if I'm staying somewhere for 3 or more days. I have five 10,000 mah fans that have kept me cool for 2 summers, so for me, the more fans, the better. My SUV also had rain guards and vehicle bug screens - the kind that fit over the entire window like a sock - so I could keep my windows cracked at night. Now that I have a minivan, I'm going to have ceramic tint installed and order some rain guards and those patio door screens like you have. I just bought a bug screen for the sunroof so with all that, plus heading towards to BC in July, I think I should be good this summer. PS If someone has reflectix on one side of their window cover and they have black fabric or black paint on the other side, and they have the black side facing outside their vehicle during the day, the black side is going to absorb heat and the reflectix is going to keep the heat inside the vehicle. If someone has reflectix, they need to have the reflective side out to reflect the sun's rays during the day and then put the black side out at night.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you for your awesome and thoughtful response! Great tips/info for everyone!! I've considered the ceramic tint for my front windshield to help keep heat out without the color tint - I'm happy to hear you recommend it!!

[@donnamartino469]

There you go making me laugh again! A little singing, choreography, and humor: welcome to the Heather Show! I love it! Thanks for all the tips!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you Donna!! I have to keep myself entertained out there haha!

[@talestrailsandtributaries8212]

I camped this past weekend in Florida. I love my Koonie! I put a cooling towel on my chest and had the Koonie blowing directly on me. Thanks for another great video, Heather!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Those fans are definitely a game changer!! Thanks for watching!

[@Kai77-24]

Thanks, Heather! Your personality is WHY I chose your video! I appreciate finding the only "Stay cool car camping" that doesn't tell you to "Go North!" Not an option so grateful for the tips. I'm nervous as a first time planner as we embark westward in June. Ugh. Scared but hopeful due to your survival tactics, lol. ;)

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you so much, you don't know how much I appreciate that! Glad you found the tips helpful!

[@Mel-gk1wg]

Thanks for this one... The only way I can overnight here in Florida is if I have electric and a portable room AC to take up the front passenger seat

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Electric hookups definitely make it more doable, too! Thanks for watching!

[@thewayofthewitch]

One thing I’ve done - particularly at camping music festivals- when ice was available - I typically store my camping stuff in those half box rubber maid containers - I’ll take an empty one and put a bag of ice in it (leave it in the bag - add a little water and voila my own “cold plunge” that, in the shade lasts all day - I can go over and stand in it for 10 mins and it totally cools me down - or I can pull up a chair and sit with my feet in it and it’ll keep me cool. Not practical for everyone but has worked well for me on more than a few summer camping trips.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Great tip, thanks for sharing!!

[@sundaytaybron1213]

Time is so precious!

[@ahah1785]

i have found out the hard way that you strictly have to sleep in your car when the sun sets and wake up BEFORE it rises....cant sleep much longer or youl wake up sweaty with headache or worse. id rather have the cold actually.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Great point! Definitely no sleeping in when it's hot like that out!!

[@kirstenstrobel4387]

Florida: hot, muggy, and buggy… Yep, that pretty well describes it! Stay cool!!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Our state motto!

[@VivecaV2020]

I also put those window covers on the windows that are open with the window socks on there, and just put it down beside the glass (on the inside) portion of the window that is closed (still keeping the open portion clear).

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Great tip! Thank you!

[@harrisconnection]

5:23 - Shade 7:19 - Window Covers 9:46 - Cross Ventilation 13:00 - Mosquito Netting 15:09 - Fans 17:34 - Honorable mention - Ice Packs, Pressurized water bottle to mist.

[@OutonaLimbwithKym]

Awesome information!!! I agree totally. Shade is your friend. And I think Koonie fans are the best. Thanks so much for sharing these tips! Very helpful!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

I'm so glad I got them - definitely great fans!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you so much!

[@neilmckay8649]

Ideas please: for napping in the afternoon or sleeping at night, how to stay cool with the van secure?

[@donnavickery1255]

Good tips, you're a tough cookie! Love your shroom shirt!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you so much! It's one of my favorite tees!

[@ElvisAldarondo]

Yup, I'm in Hollywood,FL. Hott as F#*k down here... Just bought a caravan and replaced the seats with a bed and fishing rods.. Threw a rack on the roof... About to install AC that runs strictly off of solar...

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Sounds like you'll have a great setup! It really has been brutally hot this summer here!!

[@deborahhuckaby4623]

Great tips and staying cool is seriously important during the South's crazy heat and humidity.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you, and thanks for watching!

[@chucktownvanlife4267]

If you run enough fans, you won’t sweat. It actually, helps

[@bonniecreevy2642]

Please consider adding chapters. It took over 5 min to get into it which is fine because I appreciate the video and the intro so thank you. It would be helpful for chapters though. 😊

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you for watching, and for the feedback! I have had it on my to do list to figure out how to add chapters (I have them enabled, I just need to figure out the rest) but I'm pretty low tech lol! I do everything with my phone currently, but you are right. I should have done that a while ago! 💚

[@rebeccawhittington1390]

That spot is lovely. And perfect.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you! It was a really great spot!

[@WanderingWithWanda]

Thanks for the video Heather, you're tougher than me. Here in Georgia I just don't camp in the summertime. I don't do well in temps over 75. I must be part polar bear.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

I cant say I don't understand. Under 75 (and above freezing) is ideal camping weather!!

[@nancyclubb7510]

I love my cooling blanket too. It helps a lot.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Yes!! I don't know how they're so effective, but they really do make a difference!

[@peacefulprepper2402]

Thanks for taking the time to do these videos. This was very informative.....

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thanks so much! I'm glad you found it helpful!!

[@pianogirl3870]

You have a delightful personality - enjoyed this video and may the Lord bless you and keep you safe! I'm going to check out your other videos.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Awww, thank you so much, I appreciate that! And thanks for watching!!

[@sbyrd342]

Hey, Heather, I really enjoy your videos and the content that you share. Thank you, sending good wishes to you

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you so much, that means a lot!!

[@annaroberts3976]

Great video with great advice! 😊

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you!!

[@Vangela1]

The silver side of your window covers reflect the sun. The dark side absorbs it. I learned that quickly out in the desert.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Yes! Thank you for mentioning this - I know it can make an enormous difference especially if you're windows are not tinted. Thanks!

[@Vangela1]

@@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures my windows are really dark. I was shocked how much it still mattered. 😩🌞

[@Halloweenville]

thank you I'm moving down to Florida this August and these are great tips

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thanks for watching, and an early welcome to Florida! I'm glad you found them helpful!

[@arletteguilliod8163]

You're not only singing! But, dancing too!!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Lol 💃💃

[@deeplansandbudgets]

You did such a great job on this video. Good info

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thanks so much!

[@kennethwilson8633]

Great video…Face your van south when you park and pop the hood if you can it will stop heat build up. Have fun stay safe.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you, and great tips!

[@MichelleNeelinMedia]

Get tips and also your shirt is so cute!!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you!!

[@minivanventuring]

Omg I IMMEDIATELY had to pause the video after like 5 seconds to run to the kitchen and break open a can of coca cola to finish this lol I love it!! 😂😊

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Hahaha, thank you!!

[@cinnamon--girl]

Another great video full of necessary advice and guidance, especially if you are a Floridian! Heather, my van is a 2018 Ford Transit Connect Passenger (windows) smaller than your Dodge. I had a MaxxFan installed in the rear, which runs off a Jackery 240 when needed. I also use an IcyBreeze portable cooler which is an ice cooler with a fan installed. It works as I have camped in August with no shade in our home state of FL. It will run off a Jackery when I need it to. Check it out if you need to learn about them. Hope you are doing well. 😎

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you so much! I have toyed with the idea of looking into a small maxxair eventually, but it seems so daunting cutting a hole in Terra, lol! I will definitely need to look into that

[@docink6175]

your campsite had 2 things going for it, shade and moving water. I havent taken the panels from my 3 back windows since I put them in! I think they help a lot on a daily basis. Depending on where Im at I may use a pop up tent over the back of the trailblazer or rig a tarp over the whole truck. I also carry a couple light colored top sheets I can soak and lay over the roof for evaporative cooling.. wet towels over the sun side windows can also help. Im at my daughters critter sitting for a few weeks, my usb/battery fan and smaller usb fan came in REAL handy. I use 2000mah battery packs to run the usb fans over night and can get 2 nights w/o charging if needed. passive airflow is great but having a couple small fans exhausting heat out the sunside window will draw air through.. In my full size van I have 2 floor vents to pull air from the shade under the van

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

So true! I always try really hard to make sure I'm booking or parking somewhere I'll be able to utilize shade in these temps - it makes such a difference! Great tips, thanks for sharing!

[@cc-camper-lady]

Thanks Heather! Cute shirt!

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you x 2!!

[@joyking2231]

Check out the ''COOLING THROW'', 5 x 6 blanket that pulls heat from the body, all for under $20. If feel chilled to the touch, Remember wet tee shirts cool the body too.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Yes, cooling blankets are awesome!! Thank you!

[@karenmckersie2239]

Thanks! Happy to subscribe 👍👍👍

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you so much!

[@TaraYanta]

Great video! Thank you!😅

[@cheryldaniels8801]

Where did you buy your water jug and pump from? I did not see it listed. Nice set up 👍

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you! I think I got the 3 gal. water jug from either Publix or Home Depot during hurricane season some years back, but the rechargeable sink pump is awesome & I ordered that off Amazon amzn.to/46EpdXo

[@CharidyBaxter]

Thanks...

[@SaadonAksah]

Thanks for all these tips! 👍 Well I hv to find out if I can get those Koonie fans 🤔

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thank you for watching! I've been really pleased with those fans!

[@Cindy-fc6rh]

Do you sleep at night with both van doors slid open with the white netting?

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

No, I usually close everything & lock up shortly after dark, and then just leave the windows partially open for air/ventilation (with my fans)

[@traveldreamer4616]

Nice ideas. I am not a fan of heat. Think I’m part polar bear😊

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Haha, I totally understand!! 💚

[@lifewithnana6958]

Can you explain how you do the bed in steps please.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

I did a video touching on it a while back that I'll link here, but I'm working on publishing an updated demo soon! kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWW7eKGqbbB-bpo

[@campingvanlife]

Also a white vehicle would help

[@itreyology6978]

Where are some of the best shaded spot for van life camping?

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

I prefer to find public land or state parks near the water, especially near springs, so you can usually find some nice shady spots with plenty of trees. Thankfully I don't need to worry about parking in the sun for solar, b/c that definitely complicates things in warmer climates!

[@Angeline33540]

👍

[@dynamicdivinereadings6520]

❤❤❤❤

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

💕

[@Honda_Drew]

Bruuh not to be rude but your videos might benefit view wise if you jump right to the point of why ppl are clicking on your video. Your disclaimers and explaining your life will make ppl click off and move along.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

When I don't add the disclaimers and explanation up front, I'm inundated with a bunch of questions asking those same things, so I've found it beneficial to add them right off the bat, but thanks for your feedback!

[@askdrmakris]

You cannot live in that heat with those techniques with an animal? way too hot

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

I didn't include any tips/methods for keeping an animal cool, since I don't personally travel with any pets or have any experience needing to worry about that particular issue. These are all techniques that have been tested & worked well for me. I have seen others share their techniques for keeping their pets safe though, so if you search for that specifically you should be able find some good tips on that topic as well, from those people that do travel with animals!

[@dblankenship6947]

It took you 5 minutes to get to the relevant information.

[@HeathersHikesAndAdVANtures]

Thanks for watching! Hopefully you found the video as helpful as many others have 🙂