Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Vandwelling 101 - Let's Talk Extreme Temperatures

Everyone's first answer is to travel to cooler weather in this heat...to go north.

That's fine, but exactly how far north...New Mexico was 105 degrees the other day...and North Dakota was 100 degrees...

Sometimes heading north to "cooler weather" doesn't work.

So, let's examine what does work.

If you can, go up in elevation. You get 5 degrees cooler for every thousand feet.

Park in shade, facing west in the morning, east in the afternoon.

Carry twice or three times as much water as you think you need. Lemonade will cool you down much better than a Pepsi. Also wet a wash cloth and rub down with it. You can carry a spray bottle with plain water to mist yourself.

Carry big bags of potato chips...no really...do this. When you're feeling the heat, a handful of potato chips and a cola will replenish your body. I tend to carry a couple of flavors.

Try to park so that any breeze goes across side to side of your van.

Curtains...i have curtains on bungee cord curtain rods where my van doesn't have shades.

I have one O2Cool usb 5 inch fan. It makes a big difference.

I try to park where i can open as many doors of the van as possible. Between parking in shade, a breeze, and ventilation, you can lower interior temperature by a substantial amount.

Siesta...the siesta culture exists for a reason. The hottest part of the day will usually be between 3 pm and 6 pm. So, generally from 2 pm until sunset i rest, relax, watch videos, or nap.

While i was informed someone died in 97 degree temps, both me and my dog were reasonably comfortable at up to 107.

Learn the signs of heat exhaustion. Wear loose comfortable clothes. And that straw hat is not a fashion accessory but a life saver. Try to utilize the buddy system.

Stay safe, hydrate, see ya down the road.

Lou

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