Summer’s an idyllic time to be outside. Long days, warm weather, and no need to break the ice off your socks in the morning. But let’s not pretend it doesn’t come with its challenges — especially when it’s hot. Excessive heat under canvas can turn a dream trip into an endurance test.

How to Stay Cool While Camping

Summer’s an idyllic time to be outside. Long days, warm weather, and no need to break the ice off your socks in the morning. But let’s not pretend it doesn’t come with its challenges — especially when it’s hot. Excessive heat under canvas can turn a dream trip into an endurance test.

So how do you stay cool while camping in summer? 

We’ve pulled together some of the most-asked common questions our store teams are asked about camping in the heat — from the best tent fabric for hot weather to what to wear when it’s roasting — and shared practical advice based on years of wild camps, scorched porches, and early morning tarp repositioning.

Quick links: top questions about camping in hot weather

• Where’s the best place to pitch a tent in summer?
• What’s the best tent fabric for hot weather camping?
• How do you increase ventilation in your tent?
• Should you take a tarp for sun protection?
• What kind of sleeping bag or liner is best for warm nights?
• How do you stay hydrated when camping in the heat?
• What should you wear to protect against the sun while camping?

In a rush? Here's the gist:

• Pitch in shade and face the breeze
• Use breathable fabrics – organic cotton is ideal
• Ventilate your tent and use a tarp for extra shade
• Drink plenty, cover up, and sleep smart
• Bonus gear: fan, cooling mat, chilled water bottles

Where’s the best place to pitch a tent in summer?

Choosing the right spot to pitch your tent in hot weather makes a world of difference. In summer, shade becomes the priority. Trees, rocks or even cliff shadows can offer natural cover from the midday sun.

Try to pitch with the door facing into any breeze, and avoid low ground where heat tends to collect. If you're near a body of water (and it’s safe/legal to do so), cooler air often flows from there too.

Explore lightweight tents and tarps

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What’s the best tent fabric for hot weather camping?

One of the best ways to stay cool in a tent is to pick a fabric that breathes well. Polycotton tents are ideal — they regulate temperature better than synthetic materials, staying cooler in the day and warmer at night.

Because they don’t need as many chemical coatings to stay waterproof, they’re also a more environmentally responsible choice.

Check out our Orgnic Poly Cotton tents like the Frejus or Roundhouse.

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How do you increase ventilation in your tent?

Proper ventilation is essential when you’re camping in hot conditions. Look for tents with dual doors and mesh panels, and keep the inner zipped open (with just the mesh) as much as you can. Top features in tents to keep cool in hot weather:

• Mesh panels – to boost airflow while keeping bugs out
• Ventilation vents – promote the flow of air
• Flysheet and inner tents – double all tents provide airflow between the layers, which helps to keep the tent cool
• Removable flysheet – tents that are stable without the flysheet are great to keep cool in hot weather
• Dual entry porches porches or doors/windows positioned opposite each other create airflow

If the forecast’s dry, removing the outer flysheet overnight can cool things down significantly.

Setting up a tarp above or beside your tent also helps shade your shelter while leaving airflow unrestricted.

Try the Jaran 2 or Jaran 3 for breathable, lightweight shade options.

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Should you take a tarp for sun protection?

Absolutely. Tarps are arguably the most versatile bit of summer camping kit out there. Use them to shade your tent, cover your cooking area, or string up for an afternoon nap zone.

They’re lighter than most shelters, easy to pack, and can be pitched high for airflow or low for UV protection.

Or simply try a hammock instead.

Browse all tarps and shelter options.

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What kind of sleeping bag or liner is best for warm nights?

When it’s warm, your usual sleeping bag might feel too much. Take a lighter sleeping bag or maybe a lightweight sleeping bag liner is often all you need. Silk or organic cotton liners breathe well, wick moisture, and feel comfortable against your skin even on muggy nights.

Our Mantua silk liner packs tiny and adds just enough coverage without trapping heat.

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How do you stay hydrated when camping in the heat?

Hot days mean more sweating, even if you’re just lounging in a camp chair. Drink water regularly (not just when you’re thirsty), and keep it cool if you can.

We recommend soft flasks, insulated bottles, or wide-mouth bottles you can easily add ice to. If you’re wild camping, make sure your water treatment system is up to scratch.

See hydration and bottle options.

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What should you wear to protect against the sun while camping?

It might sound backwards, but in strong sun, a hat and long sleeves are your friend. Look for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in pale colours to keep your skin covered and your core temperature down.

Add in a wide-brimmed hat, good sunglasses, and eco-conscious sunscreen and you’ve got a solid sun protection system.

Taking a swim before bed in hot weather can help cool down and help make you sleep well at night.

Check out sun-smart clothing designed for the outdoors.

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Final thoughts: camping in summer doesn't have to mean overheating

Staying cool while camping in hot weather is all about ventilation, hydration, and preparation. Choose breathable fabrics, pitch with shade in mind, and give your body what it needs to stay comfortable.

Bring the right kit, and the summer heat becomes part of the joy — not the challenge.

And if all else fails? Find a river, take a dip, lie in the shade with a book, and call it a win.

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