Aayan Hebert
Keeping your camper cool in hot weather is essential for a comfortable trip. There are various materials you can use to shade your camper and protect it from the sun's heat and UV rays. These include natural shades like trees and shrubs, awnings, tarps or shade sails, and UV-blocking sun shades. You can also use insulated window shades made from materials like Reflectix and fabric to block out light and heat and provide privacy. Additionally, you can consider purchasing a shade canopy system specifically designed for RVs, or even a camo net or sun sail to cover your camper.
Awnings
Your camper may already have an awning installed, but if not, there are portable options available to buy and set up. These can be easily deployed when you reach your campsite and provide excellent protection from the sun. Awnings can also enhance the feeling of having an outdoor living space, creating a more comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.
When choosing an awning, consider the size of your camper and the amount of shade you require. Awnings come in different sizes, so you can find one that fits your vehicle perfectly. You may also want to consider additional features, such as UV protection and water resistance, to ensure your awning is durable and provides adequate protection from the elements.
Another benefit of awnings is their versatility. You can add retractable sun shades made from UV-blocking mesh to enhance the shade provided by the awning. These shades can be hung around the awning, creating a tent-like structure that offers even more protection from the sun. This is especially useful if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, as it will help keep you cool and comfortable.
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Tarps or shade sails
Tarps and shade sails are a great way to create shade around your campervan. They are easy and affordable, and can be hung in various ways to create shade. For example, you can secure one side to the top of your camper and tie the other side around nearby trees or poles. Alternatively, you can stake the other end into the ground to create an angled shade.
Tarps are available in different sizes and can be purchased from specialist websites such as tarps.com. You can also buy poles and a tarp cover set for around $250. If you're looking for a cheaper option, you could consider buying some desert camo netting, which is often used by the military. This can be found on Amazon, or at a surplus store.
Shade sails are another option for protecting your campervan from the sun. They are similar to a boat's sail and are attached to a roof or outdoor structure to form a canopy. They are constructed from ultraviolet (UV)-resistant high-density polyethylene fabric and come in a range of colours, styles, and sizes. Shade sails can be hung at a 20- to 40-degree angle to allow water and dew to run off. They can also be installed flat or twisted into a hyperbolic paraboloid, which creates a beautiful architectural effect.
When choosing a shade sail, look for one with a UV protection factor (UPF) of 90% or higher. Also, consider the material – while HDPE sails are stretchy and breathable, PVC sails create a perfect waterproof shade. Make sure to measure your space correctly before purchasing a shade sail, leaving a perimeter of 1.5 to 2 feet around the shaded area for the turnbuckles.
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UV-blocking sun shades
If you're looking for a way to keep your camper cool and protect it from the sun's harmful UV rays, consider investing in some UV-blocking sun shades. These shades are designed to shield your camper and its occupants from the sun, providing a more comfortable and protected environment.
One option is to install an awning sunshade, which is a protective barrier that can be attached to the side of your camper. Awnings are typically made from durable materials such as vinyl-coated woven polyester mesh fabric, which effectively blocks out UV rays. They come in various colours and patterns, adding aesthetic value to your camper while providing much-needed shade. Many awnings are also portable and expandable, making them a convenient choice for those who want flexibility in their shade options.
Another popular choice is to use retractable sun shades, which can be hung around your awning to create a tent-like structure. These shades are usually made from a UV-blocking mesh-like material, making them lightweight and effective in blocking the sun. They enhance the shade provided by your awning, and their retractable nature makes them easy to adjust according to your needs.
If you're looking for a more comprehensive solution, consider adding shade panels to your awning. These panels can block up to 80% of UV rays and provide extra privacy. They are designed to slide into the accessory slot on the awning roller tube, and the bottom can be secured using stakes and adjustable bungee hooks.
For those who want to focus on protecting the interior of their camper, window sun shades are an excellent option. These shades are designed to fit your camper's windows, preventing direct sunlight from entering and keeping the interior cool. Many window shades are made with reflective materials, such as aluminium foil or silver coating, to effectively block out the sun. Some window shades also offer privacy features, allowing you to comfortably sleep or relax without being visible from the outside.
Additionally, you can find complete sun shade kits for your camper, which include screens and canopies that attach to your awning. These kits provide all-around protection from the sun, improving shade and privacy. They often come with ground nails and hammers for easy installation.
By investing in UV-blocking sun shades, you can create a comfortable and protected environment for your camper, ensuring that you stay cool and safe from the sun's harmful rays.
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Greenhouse shades
Greenhouse shade cloths are an effective way to keep your plants healthy and happy during the hot summer months. They help to reduce heat and diffuse light, creating a more comfortable environment for your plants. There are a variety of options available to suit different needs and preferences.
Shade cloths come in different colours, including black, white, green, tan, and silver. The density of the fabric can also vary, with light, medium, and heavy options available. You can choose between knitted and woven shade cloth, depending on your preference. If you're looking for something more decorative, sun sail shades are also available in square and triangle shapes, providing an attractive way to cover up from the sun.
When purchasing a shade cloth, you can either buy pre-cut sizes or bulk rolls for custom projects. Some materials are sold by the foot, allowing you to get exactly the amount you need. Finished shade panels come with metal grommets for easy hanging and tying.
In addition to shade cloths, you can also use shade compounds that can be sprayed or brushed onto a surface to block out the sun. These compounds come in seasonal, year-long, and permanent formulas, offering flexibility depending on your needs.
By using greenhouse shades, you can control the amount of light and heat your plants receive, creating the optimal environment for their growth and health.
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Camo netting
One of the benefits of using camo netting is its dense mesh construction, which not only provides effective shading but also ensures some light can pass through, creating a pleasant dappled light effect. This makes it ideal for use in a range of settings, from gardens and campsites to festivals and events. The mesh material is also lightweight and easy to work with, making it simple to set up and take down as needed.
In addition to providing shade, camo netting can also serve other purposes. Its camouflage effect can provide privacy and concealment, and some varieties are also fire retardant, adding an extra layer of safety to your campsite.
When choosing camo netting, consider the specific environment in which it will be used. For example, if you are camping in a woodland area, opt for a woodland camo pattern to help your setup blend in with the surroundings. You can also find camo netting with added features, such as bundled nylon rope for easier fixing, or mesh backing for added durability.
With its versatility, effectiveness, and range of available options, camo netting is a great choice for creating shade for your camper.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're parked near trees or tall shrubs, make sure to position your camper so that the trees or shrubs are on the western side. This will block UV rays during the hottest times of the day.
You can use tarps or shade sails, which can be purchased at a relatively low cost. Secure one side to the top of your camper and tie the other side to nearby trees or poles.
You can purchase an awning, which is a roll of canvas that attaches to the side of your camper. You can also buy shades made for greenhouses, which are mesh-like and come in various colours and sizes.
You can use a shiny, insulating material called Reflectix for your window shades. You can also use patterned fabric, adhesive spray, and black duct tape for a more homey, bright look.
