Nothing beats the freedom of a campervan adventure, but let’s be real, it can get chilly in winter and sweltering in summer if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re winding through the South Island’s snowy peaks or soaking up the North Island’s summer sun, knowing how to regulate the temperature inside your van is key to a comfy trip. In this guide, we’ll show you how to stay cosy in the cold and cool in the heat, so you can focus on enjoying the ride.
How to Stay Warm in Winter in a Campervan
Heating a campervan in winter doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are some quick tips to beat the chill:
1. Use a Quality Heater
If you’re hiring a van, make sure it has an efficient heating system to handle those chilly southern nights, like a diesel heater. Kia Ora Campers’ 4-berth campervan features built-in diesel heating, ensuring consistent warmth even in the coldest conditions.
2. Insulate Your Van
If you own a campervan, adding thermal window covers, investing in floor insulation, or sealing any drafts can help retain heat. For rentals, use extra blankets or thermal curtains to keep the warmth in. At Kia Ora Campers, our vans feature well-insulated interiors to keep the cold out and warmth in.
3. Layer Up & Use Thermal Bedding
Wearing warm layers and having a high-quality sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures is a must. Stock up on some comfy merino, a Kiwi favourite for warmth and breathability.
4. Park Smart
Park in sheltered spots away from wind tunnels. If possible, position your camper where it will catch the morning sun to naturally warm up the interior.
5. Cook Inside (Safely!)
Cooking inside your campervan generates warmth, so prepare a hot meal at night to keep the space cosy. Just be sure to ventilate properly to avoid condensation build-up. At Kia Ora Campers, our campervans feature a 4-burner gas hob and gas grill, allowing you to prepare hot meals with ease.
How to Stay Cool in Summer in a Campervan
On the flip side, summer road trips can turn your camper into a sauna if you’re not careful. Here’s how to keep cool on hot days:
1. Park in the Shade
The simplest way to avoid overheating is to park under trees or use an awning for extra shade. If shade isn’t available, position your camper with the least exposed side facing the sun.
2. Ventilation is Key
Keeping airflow moving is crucial for cooling. Open windows and roof vents to create cross-ventilation, or use a battery-operated fan to keep air circulating inside.
3. Reflect the Heat
Reflective sunshades on your windows can help keep the heat out. You can also use blackout curtains to stop the sun from overheating your camper.
4. Stay Hydrated & Cool with Damp Towels
Staying hydrated helps regulate your body temperature, so drink plenty of water throughout your trip. For instant relief from the heat, place a damp towel on your neck or forehead. With the 130L fridge/freezer in our campervans, you’ll always have access to chilled drinks and fresh food to help you stay refreshed on the road.
5. Travel During Cooler Hours
Drive during the cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Use the hottest hours to relax in the shade or cool off in a lake or river.
Comforts of Hiring a Campervan from Kia Ora Campers
Our campervans are comfortable and well-equipped to keep you cosy in winter and cool in summer. They come with top-quality insulation, built-in heating and cooling options, and premium bedding to ensure a restful sleep no matter the weather.
• Temperature Control: Our vans are designed for all-season comfort, with built-in diesel heating to keep you warm on cold nights and well-ventilated interiors to help you stay cool in summer.
• Well-Insulated Interiors: Enjoy superior insulation to retain warmth in winter and block out excess heat in summer.
• Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements: Our vans offer various sleeping setups to suit different travel needs. The 4 Berth Merc Cascade features a permanent drop-down double bed and a rear lounge that converts into another double bed, ensuring a restful night’s sleep for families or groups. Meanwhile, the 3 Berth Mercedes Nomad provides a king-size bed along with a small single bed, offering flexibility for couples or small travel parties.
• Convenient Cooking Facilities: A fully-equipped kitchenette with a gas stove and microwave allows you to prepare warm meals in winter and refreshing drinks in summer.
• Power Supply & Off-Grid Capabilities: A solar panel and deep cycle batteries mean you can go off-grid while keeping your essentials powered up.
• Shade & Outdoor Comfort: Each campervan comes with an awning, which provides excellent shade on hot days—perfect for outdoor relaxation.
Stay Comfortable on the Road with Kia Ora Campers
No matter the season, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your camper comfortable. These tips will help you enjoy your journey without temperature troubles.
If you’re planning your next road trip, hire a campervan with Kia Ora Campers for an epic adventure. We have campers available in the South Island and North Island. Request a quote today and hit the road in comfort—whatever the weather!