Top Tips for Camping in a Heatwave: Stay Cool, Sleep Well, and Enjoy the Adventure

Camping in a heatwave can be both challenging and rewarding. High temperatures and intense sun can affect your comfort, sleep quality, and even your safety if you’re not prepared. At Terra Nova Equipment, we’ve spent decades designing tents for all conditions… including summer scorchers. Whether you’re heading to a UK campsite or planning a European wild camping trip, these expert-backed tips will help you stay cool and make the most of hot weather camping.

1. Choose a Tent with Excellent Ventilation

Ventilation is key to a good night’s sleep in summer. Look for tents with multiple vents, mesh panels, and breathable inners. Our Wild Country Halny Elite Range and Terra Nova Laser Lite AS tents feature front and rear vents to allow for cross-breeze airflow, helping reduce condensation and regulate temperature. Pitch your tent with vents facing into a breeze for maximum cooling effect.

2. Go for Inner Pitch-First or Freestanding Options

In extremely hot conditions, inner-pitch-first or freestanding tents allow you to pitch the breathable mesh inner without the flysheet, offering bug protection and airflow without trapping heat. The Solar Event or Solar Horizon is a great option for this setup.

3. Choose Lighter Tent Colours

Tents with lighter-coloured flysheets reflect more sunlight, keeping internal temperatures down. Models like the Halny Elite 1 and Helm Elite 1 come in a lighter grey/blue shade.

4. Pitch in Shade (or Create Your Own)

Natural shade is your best friend. Arrive early to choose a spot under trees or on the shaded side of a hill. If shade is limited, consider bringing a lightweight tarp to create your own cover, something like the Terra Nova Adventure Tarp can offer flexible sun shelter.

5. Adjust Your Sleep System

Ditch heavy sleeping bags in favour of lightweight summer options. Sleeping bag liners, inflatable sleeping mats, and ventilated pillows help reduce heat buildup. Pair this with a tent like the Terra Nova Southern Cross 1, which provides internal space and strong airflow, ideal for warm nights.

6. Hydration

Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, and sip steadily throughout the day. Reusable insulated bottles or hydration packs are a must.

7. Plan Your Pitch Time Wisely

Avoid pitching your tent in the peak heat of the day (usually 12–4pm). Instead, take advantage of early morning or late evening cooler temperatures to set up. This makes the experience less strenuous and prevents overheating before bedtime.

8. Keep Doors Open (Safely)

Keeping inner doors and mesh windows open during the day and into the evening encourages airflow and prevents heat buildup. Ensure you’re using tents with bug mesh or mosquito netting to stay protected while still ventilating.

Heatwaves don’t have to spoil your camping plans. With the right gear, smart planning, and heat-conscious habits, you can enjoy summer camping safely and comfortably. Explore our full range of breathable, lightweight tents and make your next hot-weather adventure your most enjoyable yet.