The Camping Air Conditioner

air conditioner for camping

Tent Air Conditioner

EENOUR Portable Air Conditioner – Our detailed review

A Portable air conditioner might become an absolute necessity during the summer if you want to keep your tent cool and enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep.

Not only that, but a good portable air conditioner can also keep you and everyone in the tent safe from heat strokes and other heat illnesses, such as hyperthermia, which is a severe condition that happens when your organisms temperature is very high (i.e. temperatures above 104°F)

Among many alternatives, one of the most popular portable air conditioners on the market today is the EENOUR Portable air conditioner. More specifically, we’re talking about two models: the EENOUR QN650 and EENOUR QN750, which are very similar but come with slightly different features.

In this article, you’ll learn about this portable air conditioner, what makes it so popular, how it stacks up against the EENOUR QN 750 model, and whether or not it’s worth your money.

Read on to learn more.

EENOUR Portable Air Conditioner

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

EENOUR Portable air conditioner - Summary Review

In a hurry? Don’t worry. This is our summary review. 

Eenour products are becoming very popular among people (and campers) looking for versatile air conditioning alternatives. They offer excellent mobility and good cooling output, with the QN750 model offering 2900 BTU (more than sufficient to cool down medium-sized tents for up to 6 campers).

Highest Cooling
EENOUR QN750
  • BTU: 2,900 BTU
  • Weight: 10 Kg
  • Noise Levels: 45dB to 58 dB
  • Cooling Method: Cylinder Compressor
Lower Investment
EENOUR QN650
  • BTU: 2,350Btu
  • Weight: 9.5kg
  • Noise Levels: 44 dB to 64 dB
  • Cooling Method: Cylinder Compressor

Update – July/23 – It appears that Eenour is no longer manufacturing the QN650 Model, we just found a great alternative with excellent value for money  – Soveign 2380 BTU Tent Air Conditioner(Click Here to Check Price)

The design is sophisticated, and embedded handlebars facilitate transportation and mobility. It will serve you well if you are also using it in your RV or car camping. 

Even though both options are not battery-operated, they are 24-V compatible, which makes them easy to run from a solar power generator if you are camping off-grid. 

So far, it is the most powerful portable AC with 24-V compatibility that I have ever seen on the market, which draws me a lot of attention (for example, the Coolingsytle portable ac only offers 1,700 BTU).

The downsides? In our opinion, even though it offers a significant cooling output for a battery-compatible model, it is slightly pricey, and if you have an electric hookup at your campsite, you might be better served with BlackDecker 8,000 Btu at a lower investment and higher cooling capacity (However, it is not battery-compatible). 

It is also slightly noisy and you might prefer options with levels below 50dB (noise will vary according to operating mode). 

Pros
  • Cooling Output (up to 2900 Btu)
  • Fast Cooling (Drops 16°F in just 5 minutes)
  • Sophisticated Design and Portability
  • 24-V battery compatible (lower power consumption)
  • Excellent for Tents and RVs
  • Easy to operate and install
Cons
  • Pricey - Other options might offer better Value for Money
  • Not the lightest option
  • Can be noisy!

Our Verdict: These units are ideal if you are camping off-grid and have a generator or electric hookup close by. They are versatile ACs, which can be easily transported and installed and offer great cooling output. 

However, if that is not your case, it might be good to consider other options, such as: 

EENOUR Portable AC - Detailed Review

There is no doubt that a good portable air conditioner will cool down your tent. And if you look for the best portable units on the market, you’ll likely come across the EENOUR models.

They packed with great features, a fair amount of power, and is a bit more affordable than most portable cordless AC units on the market.

While QN650 isn’t as strong as the QN750, it still offers a lot for an affordable unit. Here’s how it stacks up compared to its more expensive counterpart:

Cooling Ability

During the summer, your tent will get very hot, especially when it’s in the sun, and the best way to cool down the insides of a tent is by using an air conditioner. That being said, you need to make sure you get a unit with decent cooling ability in order to make the insides of the tent comfortable during the day and night.

To see how well this air conditioner can cool down a tent or area, let’s take a closer look at its cooling system. The QN650 uses a Panasonic Twin Cylinder Compressor. This is considered one of the top compressors on a budget on the market today. You can rest assured that it’s high quality and fully functional.

While the technology behind the air conditioner is great, does it work in the real world?

Yes, it does. The QN650 delivers 2,350BTU (and QN750 2,900 BTU), which is a fair amount of energy. As we have detailed in this post (how many BTU do I need for my tent AC), EENOUR models will easily cool down large tents (up to 8 campers), as long as they are well insulated and not directly exposed to the sun. 

SizeVolume (cubic feet)Insulated TentNo insulation (1.25X)No insulation and sun exposure (1.5X)
Small Tents200800 BTU1000 BTU1200 BTU
Medium Tents3501400 BTU1750 BTU2100 BTU
Large Tents7002800 BTU3500 BTU4200 BTU
Family Tents12505000 BTU6250 BTU7500 BTU

Design and Weight

Both models come with an appealing and sophisticated design, which is modern and has a central air output facilitating airflow direction. This is great for those who want to cool down a specific area faster. 

The embedded handle facilitates transportation (see picture below) but its weight is not ideal – The QN650, for example, weighs roughly 9.5kg, which might become a little bit unpractical for those who need to walk on foot for some camping spot or want extreme versatility.

However, in most cases, most portable air conditioners with compressors can be relatively heavy (compared to evaporative coolers, such as Evapolar Evachill, which only weighs 2 pounds!) and hard to carry over long distances on foot. 

In our opinion, this model has a good and portable design when considering its cooling capacity and internal compressor. It isn’t as large as other portable ACs, and you can tell it’s designed to be carried on camping adventures. The shape isn’t that bulky, making the AC quite easy to transport (see table below for a quick comparison).

ItemEenour QN650BlackDecker 8,000 BTUEvapolar Evachill
Cooling Capacity2,350 BTU8,000N/A – Evaporative Cooler
Weight9.5kg24kg0.9 kg
Price$$$

Special Features

This air conditioner comes with a bunch of cool features that make it even more convenient to have on a camping trip, such as:

  • Both have three fan speeds and a sleep mode. This means that you can adjust the AC to operate at the level that you want it to so that it can both meet your cooling and noise needs.
  • Both also have an LCD control panel. This is a staple for most modern air conditioners as it makes switching between the different modes much easier even if you’re not tech-savvy.
  • Both are VERY easy to install and use, and you won’t have any headaches with hoses, connections, etc. 
Highest Cooling
EENOUR QN750
  • BTU: 2,900 BTU
  • Weight: 10 Kg
  • Noise Levels: 45dB to 58 dB
  • Cooling Method: Cylinder Compressor
Lower Investment
EENOUR QN650
  • BTU: 2,350Btu
  • Weight: 9.5kg
  • Noise Levels: 44 dB to 64 dB
  • Cooling Method: Cylinder Compressor

Update – July/23 – It appears that Eenour is no longer manufacturing the QN650 Model, we just found a great alternative with excellent value for money  – Soveign 2380 BTU Tent Air Conditioner(Click Here to Check Price)

What Are Good Alternatives to the EENOUR Portable Air Conditioner?

It’s perfectly understandable if you’re not keen on the EENOUR models. At the end of the day, everyone has different needs. So, if this model isn’t the one for you, there are plenty of great alternatives that you can consider, such as: 

  • For Small tents and backpacking – Evapolar Evachill (USB-compatible)
  • Large Tents (+8 campers) and long-term camping – it might be ideal picking a window AC unit or BlackDecker 8,000 BTU
  • Medium-size tent alternative – Cooling Style Portable AC
  • RV Camping – install a mini split AC inside your vehicle.
Item Eenour
QN650
Cooling Style Evapolar
Evachill
Black&Decker 8,000 BTU DELLA 12000 BTU
Cooling Capacity 2,350 BTU 1,700 BTU N/A – Evaporative Cooler 8,000 12,000 BTU
Weight 9.5kg 6.5 kg  0.9 kg 24kg 18kg
Ideal For Small and Medium Size Tents Small and Medium Size Tents Small Tents and backpackers Large Tents RV 
Price $$$ $$ $ $$ $$$
Ideal for Medium Sized Tents
EENOUR QN650 - 2350 Btu
Ideal for small tents
Evapolar evaCHILL
Ideal for family tents
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU
Best for RVs
DELLA 12000 BTU

Update – July/23 – It appears that Eenour is no longer manufacturing the QN650 Model, we just found a great alternative with excellent value for money  – Soveign 2380 BTU Tent Air Conditioner(Click Here to Check Price)

Conclusion

We personally love the EENOUR portable air conditioners. Both the QN650 and the QN750 are great, but if we were to pick one, we’d go for the QN650 as it offers more value for money, and honestly, it does the job extremely well.

Our tent can fit up to 8 people and every time I take the QN650 with us, I’m never left disappointed.

Cooling Style Portable AC – How good is it for camping?

Summer days are right on the corner, and you probably need a portable ac for camping to make your trip comfy, right?

Cooling Style Portable AC appears as one attractive camping cooling option at a compact size with great portability with many options in the market. Is it worth the investment?

In our opinion, yes, but the device comes with some features that you should consider before buying it. Let’s go through a detailed review below and see whether this is the most suitable camping ac for you. 

cooling style portable ac review

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Cooling Style Portable Air Conditioner - Summary Review

Cooling style portable AC is a good option for those using small-to-medium-sized tents and have an electric hookup or 24V batteries available during the trip. 

Offering 1700 BTU of cooling output, this camping AC unit will better suit groups of up four campers and work well in all weather conditions, including high humidity

It is compact and relatively lightweight, with an excellent design that comes with a handle to facilitate transportation – it will be easy to fit it among your camping gear or place it in the back of your car.

Coolingstyle Portable AC
  • Portability
  • AC via compressor
  • No installation required
  • Cooling Capacity is 1700BTU
  • Compatible with 24V Battery

However, the relationship between investment and cooling capacity, noise levels, and the requirement for an external battery to make it run (or connect to an electric input) are among the higher drawbacks of this device.

Our takeaway is: consider CoolingStyle Portable AC if you want something compact that is easy to carry around, has a good design, and your campsite provides you with electric infrastructure (or you have a good 24V battery). 

Some alternatives to this device are:

  • Battery-powered AC – IceBreeze V2 Pro 
  • Evaporative Cooler with lower investment – Evapolar Evachill
  • AC for family-sized tents – 
Pros
  • Battery compatible (24V)
  • Sophisticated Design
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Cooling output suit small and medium tents
Cons
  • Pricey
  • No battery included 
  • Can be noisy
  • Not efficient for big tents (more than 6 campers)
Coolingstyle Portable AC
  • Portability
  • AC via compressor
  • No installation required
  • Cooling Capacity is 1700BTU
  • Compatible with 24V Battery

However, the relationship between investment and cooling capacity, noise levels, and the requirement for an external battery to make it run (or connect to an electric input) are among the higher drawbacks of this device.

Our takeaway is: consider CoolingStyle Portable AC if you want something compact that is easy to carry around, has a good design, and your campsite provides you with electric infrastructure (or you have a good 24V battery). 

Some alternatives to this device are:

Cooling Style AC - How it works?

The device works as a small air conditioning unit, with a group of a small 24V rotary compressor, fans, and condensers with high-pressure gas that exchange and exhales hot air outside your tent and blows air conditioner cool air inside your tent (through its condenser).

The video below details its internal mechanisms.

Its compact mechanisms ensure a nominal capacity of 1700 Btu, which would be sufficient to cool down small-to-medium-sized tents – check this article to discover how many BTU you need for your camping AC

Design and Weight

Cooling Style AC is a compact device, weighing only 6.5kg and measuring 8.5 x 10.6 x 15.7 inches. The equipment already includes a handle to facilitate transport and positioning. 

We liked the shape, stunning design and ease of transport of this AC. We suggest putting it over a flat surface to ensure stability if you take it on your next trip. 

Operating Specs

The device comes with 3-cooling levels and can provide an output of 1700 BTU, which would be sufficient to cool small tents efficiently. According to its manufacturer, it will perform well in temperatures ranging from 10 to 45 degrees Celsius. 

It is battery-compatible (24V) but does not come with an embedded battery, which is a negative aspect for us, considering the investment made (around $500). 

Therefore, its appeal to off-grid campers is reduced, but if you already have a battery bank or solar-powered generator, such as Jackery 1500W solar power generator, it might be a great alternative since its energy consumption is low. 

However, in contrast to battery-operated evaporative coolers, this portable AC will work well in humid conditions and ensure a cool environment inside your shelter. 

The table below summarises the main characteristics of the product. 

 

Cooling Style Portable AC
Weight 6.5 kg 
Measures 8.5 x 10.6 x 15.7 inches.
Cooling capacity 1700 Btu
Power Consumption 100 – 180 W
Battery Compatible  Yes – 24V
Battery Included? No
USB compatible? No 
Temperature Range 10 to 45 C
Noise Levels 50 – 60 dB
Cooling System? Air Conditioning (Compressor Included)
Coolingstyle Portable AC
  • Portability
  • AC via compressor
  • No installation required
  • Cooling Capacity is 1700BTU
  • Compatible with 24V Battery

Cooling Style - Camping AC Alternatives

The table below summarises the comparison between cooling style and other alternatives recommended by the thecampingariconditioner team:

Features Cooling Style Portable AC Evapolar Evachill IceBreeze V2 Pro BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
Weight 6.5 kg 0.910kg 7.25kg (empty) 23kg
Dimensions 8.5 x 10.6 x 15.7 inches. 6.5 x 6.5 x 6.5 inches 18.5  x 11.25 x 11 inches 17.32 x 13.2 x 27.2 inches
BTU 1700 Btu N/A – Evaporative Cooler N/A – cooler fan 8000 Btu
Power Consumption 100 – 180 W 7W 45 W 860W
Battery Compatible?  Yes – 24V Yes – 5V Yes – 12V No
Battery Operated? No No Yes No
USB compatible? No  Yes No No
Noise Levels 50 – 60 dB Max 50 dB Max 45db 52dB
Tent size? Small to Medium Small Medium Family-sized tents
Investment $$$ $ $$ $$$
ImageProduct TitleFeaturesPrice
Compact and Efficient
Coolingstyle Portable AC
Coolingstyle Portable AC
9.7
Check Price
Mini AC USB Compatible
Evapolar evaCHILL
Evapolar evaCHILL
9.5
Check Price
Battery Operated AC
IcyBreeze V2 Pro
IcyBreeze V2 Pro
9.1
Check Price
Family Tents
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU
8.8
Check Price

Camping in humid weather – 7 Tips to improve your next trip!

Summer is the preferred camper’s preferred season – you can make the most of long and shiny days! However, humidity and temperature can significantly impact your camping experience.

If you are planning your next trip, you might be wondering: how humid is it humid for camping? How hot is it too hot for camping?

Humidity and temperatures walk alongside when it comes to raising potential risks for campers in summer. This article will detail these risks and tips to go camping in humid weather.

camping in humid weather

How humid is too humid to camping?

Relative humidity levels above 50% are already considered uncomfortable, with percentages above 70% being considered dangerous.

However, we need to fully understand the wet-bulb temperature concept to answer this question. It is a theoretical measure that combines humidity and temperature into one value. 

What is the wet bulb temperature?

The wet-bulb temperature is a theoretical measure that combines humidity and temperature into one value. Its measurement occurs by wrapping a wet wick around the bulb of a mercury thermometer and measuring what temperature it reaches (simulating humidity levels at 100%). 

We regulate our internal temperature via internal mechanisms, which include sweating. If our body is exposed to environments with high humidity levels, our sweating capacity and our body’s ability to cool down with air will be highly impacted. 

As a consequence, within environments with high humidity levels, our organism will struggle to regulate temperature, and you might experience some symptoms, which include:

  • Feeling dizzy or light-headed 
  • Having a dry throat
  • Severe headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle cramps

The maximum wet-bulb temperature that a human body can tolerate is 95-degrees Fahrenheit, and (wet-bulb) temperatures above 86°F are already considered dangerous. 

Camping in humid weather - 7 tips for your next camping trip

We wrote a bunch of measures that will help you tent camping in humid and hot conditions, such as: 

  • #1 – Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Hot and humid weather will make you sweat more and lose more water, which needs to be refilled.
  • #2 – Eat refreshing foods, such as fruits and salad. Options like Watermelon and pineapple are a good idea since they have more than 90% of water in their composition.
  • #3 – Use loose and light-coloured clothes. Preferably, use cotton pieces to retain less heat and keep maximum ventilation.
  • #4 – Similarly, canvas-cotton tents are a great alternative, given this tent fabric comes with the highest levels of breathability
  • #5 – Ensure there is plenty of ventilation in your tent. The more air circulation, the more water vapour and moisture will be carried away, decreasing the humidity levels. You can also use a solar-powered fan to increase ventilation!
  • #6 – If possible, use a tent air conditioner with dehumidifying features (most devices come with it today). 
  • #7 – Avoid long hikes and strenuous exercises during humid and hot conditions. 

Note: camping evaporative coolers will likely NOT be efficient on humid days – if you want to understand why read this article.

FAQ

Why do tents get so hot?

Overall, tents tend to get hot because of:

  • Excessive sun exposure (Pitching your tent in the wrong spot and at the improper time)
  • Lack of air circulation / ventilation
  • Incorrect insulation
  • Incorrect use of rainfly 
  • Tent’s size and material

If you want to read further information about it, read this article

Can you use a dehumidifier in a tent?

Yes, there are a lot of portable options that can be used in a tent, such as this mini battery-powered version

Alternatively, you can also use small charcoal blocks – they will absorb moisture from the air and decrease humidity.

How to camp with a baby in hot weather?

Babies are susceptible to hot and humid conditions because their internal temperature control mechanisms are not fully developed until they are 2 years old. 

Some tips to camp with a baby in hot weather are:

  • Ensure your baby is hydrated
  • Choose a suitable campsite
  • Bring adequate camping gear, including baby camping gear.
  • Insulate your tent for summer camping
  • Stay inside and avoid the baby’s sun exposure
  • Give them a bath.

If you want to check further details about each tip and how to implement them, read this article

Conclusion

Camping in hot weather with high humidity levels can be challenging, but hopefully, you will do it successfully with the tips shown above.

Before leaving for your next trip, make sure that you check the weather forecast and bring the appropriate camping gear. If humidity levels are above 70%, it might be worth cancelling your trip or bringing specific gear, such as a tent dehumidifier or a camping AC to help you tackle heat waves.

Have a safe and cozy camping trip!

Camping with a baby in hot weather – how to safely do it!

Did you know that babies can lose heat up to 4 times faster than adults? That is why babies are much more sensitive to temperature variations. 

A newborn will start creating its internal temperature regulation mechanisms at around 11 weeks. However, at this stage, these internal systems are still preliminary and will continue developing until it reaches full autonomy around two years old. 

Summer days are an excellent opportunity to take your baby outdoors and let them enjoy the beauty of nature. However, you must be careful when camping with your newborn kid in scorching weather – overheating can impact an infant and make them feel uncomfortable.

We drafted this guide with all tips you need to know to go camping with a baby in hot weather. You will have a safe and enjoyable trip if you put all of them in place, but before jumping into the tips, let’s understand what baby overheating risks are. 

camping with a baby in hot weather

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

What are the risks of camping with a baby in hot weather?

Baby overheating can directly impact their well being and health, which requires your attention. Among the risks, we highlight:  

  • Heat exhaustion: Your baby may experience a weak pulse, sweat excessively, or have very hot, red skin. 
  • Heat rash: Heat rash is common in babies who are overheated. Heat rash looks like tiny red bumps around the neck or on their bottom. 
  • Dehydration: when your baby’s body temperature is high, they sweat a lot and lose electrolytes and fluids, leading to dehydration. 
  • SIDS (Sudden infant death syndrome): Unfortunately, overheating can lead to SIDS. Recent studies have shown that overheated babies are more likely to reach deep sleeping stages, which are very difficult to arouse. 

Camping with a baby in hot weather - useful tips

Tip #1 - Ensure your baby is hydrated

To ensure your baby is hydrated, you should: 

  • Breastfeed or bottle-feed often during the day (breastfeeding mothers should stay hydrated to increase their milk supply)
  • Offer drinks frequently, as babies are not able to tell they are thirsty.
  • Give babies over six months old cooled boiled water to aid in digestion and keep them cool.

Overall, a good sign of hydration is that your baby should have 6 to 8 wet nappies within a day. When outdoors, constantly monitor and increase their fluid intake.

Tip #2 Plan ahead and choose a cool campsite and adequate camping gear

A campsite plays an essential role in ensuring you and your family stay cool on summer days. Before heading to your trip, check the weather forecast and ensure that temperature and humidity levels are not excessively high (suggested article: how hot is too hot for camping?)

Temperatures above 100 Fahrenheit are considered dangerous for your newborn, and you should pay attention to the following tips: 

  • Ensure you pitch your tent in an area with trees that will offer shade 
  • Keep the heat out of the tent and ensure the tent has many air vents for air circulation
  • If possible, camp in an area close to waterfalls and/or water
  • Check the temperature of surfaces where you put your baby to play. Some surfaces may be too hot for your baby. Before heading out, invest in camping cooling mats with hydrophilic cooling gel. The mats will keep your baby’s temperature down on summer days. 

Tip #3 Bring the adequate camping gear

After choosing your camping location, ensure you bring adequate camping gear for the trip with your baby. Some tips are:

  • Choose an adequate tent fabric – Canvas tents tend to offer better insulation and temperature control, which might be ideal for your trip. 
  • Preferably pick a light coloured tent
  • Pick a spacious tent for hot weather that will ensure proper air circulation. 
  • Consider a tent air conditioner

Kodiak Canvas Tent Delux (4,6 and 8 people) is the Best Canvas Tent for hot weather.

Tip #4 - Bring special gear for your baby

Simple accessories will protect your baby from overheating and decrease overheating risks, such as:

  • Baby summer hat
  • Light clothes 
  • A camping summer stroller with cover
  • Peapod camping bed 
  • An umbrella with SPF protection
  • Camping pack and play (with mesh and ventilation area)

Tip #5 - Insulate your tent for summer camping

Insulating your tent for summer camping will keep your tent cool and with ideal temperature levels. Some insulation tips are: 

  • Use a tent tarp – it will avoid direct exposure to sunlight
  • Use duct tape and/or pool noodles to suppress any minor leakage – This is essential if you are using a tent air conditioner
  • Insulate your tent floor – it will avoid that heat accumulated on the soil transfer to your tent.
  • Cover your tent with thermal blankets – Similar to the use of tent tarps.

If you want to read a detailed guide on how to insulate your tent for summer camping, read this article

Tip #6 - Stay inside and avoid sun exposure

In summer, try keeping your baby inside to avoid sun exposure. Plan your activities well and preferably take them outdoors early in the morning or close to sunset time.

It is essential to avoid sun exposure from 10am to 4pm, when UV rays are the strongest. If you baby is older than 6 months and you are planning to expose them to the sun rays, it is advisable to wear a special sunscreen, such as babyganics SPF 50 

Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen
  • SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection
  • Pediatrician and dermatologist tested
  • Non-allergenic and tear-free
  • Made without oxybenzone and octinoxate.

If you go out for a hike, protect the baby’s skin from the sun by covering them with a hat, loose clothing, or use a baby stroller with covers. Also, while hiking, ensure to keep your baby hydrated.

Tip #7 - Give them a bath

Bathing your baby during the day or before bed will cool them down. If your baby is overheating, opt for a cool lukewarm or cool bath. 

A bath before bed will lower the body’s core temperature, aiding better sleep and relaxation. For camping days, a good alternative are inflatable baths – easy to transport, assemble, and low cost. 

What are the signs that my baby is overheating during hot weather?

When you are camping with your baby, there are several things to watch out for if your baby has a high body temperature. Here are some signs to monitor. 

Baby overheating sign #1 - Feeling warm to the touch

If you notice your baby feels warm to the touch, it is a sign of overheating. 

The simplest way to tell if your baby is too hot is by touching their ears and neck. If they are red and hot, the temperature is too warm for the baby.

 Ensure your baby is at a comfortable temperature both when sleeping and throughout the day because their temperatures vary. The optimal temperatures for babies range from 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit or 20 to 22 degrees Celsius.

Baby overheating sign #2 - Increase heartbeat

A rapid heartbeat is indicative that the baby’s cooling system is overworking to cool them down. 

If you notice the baby has a rapid heartbeat or breathing, cool them as fast as possible – undress them, have a tent air conditioner or fan close, and keep them hydrated. 

Baby overheating sign #3 - Red Skin

When babies are hot, some naturally get redder than others. When your baby has red skin combined with other symptoms, including nausea and sweating, the problem comes in. 

If you notice the skin is red, find a shade or somewhere cool to prevent discomfort and other severe symptoms.

camping with a baby in hot weather

Baby overheating sign #4 - Sweating

The average temperature for a baby should be 97.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Anything over and above 100 degrees is dangerous, and it should ring a bell – sweating might be one of the earliest overheating signs.

If your baby’s temperature is 103-degrees but isn’t sweating, they may be in heatstroke territory, and you should call 911 immediately. The other crucial signs to note are: 

  • Unresponsiveness to touch and tickles 
  • Nausea and vomiting, which are signs of heatstroke 
  • Being dizzy or confused 
  • Seems overly sluggish, tired, or listless. 

FAQ

How hot is too hot for camping with a baby?

Temperatures above 100 Fahrenheit degrees are already considered dangerous for babies.  

Can I pass sunscreen on my baby?

It is not recommended to pass sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months. In fact, the FDA and the American American Academy of Pediatrics recommend not exposing infants to the sun below the 6-month threshold

If your newborn is older than 6 months, you may consider using sunscreen, such as babyganics SPF 50 (detailed below). When choosing the product, check the following:

  • Pick an option with a “Broad sprectrum” label – it will protect against both UVA and UVB
  • SPF should be above 15 
  • Apply the sunscreen at least 30 min before sun exposure
  • Reapply every 2 hours or after the baby have a shower
  • Follow any special instructions by the manufacturer. 
Babyganics SPF 50 Baby Sunscreen
  • SPF 50 UVA/UVB protection
  • Pediatrician and dermatologist tested
  • Non-allergenic and tear-free
  • Made without oxybenzone and octinoxate.

If you go out for a hike, protect the baby’s skin from the sun by covering them with a hat, loose clothing, or use a baby stroller with covers. Also, while hiking, ensure to keep your baby hydrated.

How to keep a tent cool and avoid baby overheating?

If you have electricity at your campsite, consider bringing a portable AC

If you don’t have electricity close by, consider the following measures: 

  • Choose the adequate tent fabric – Canvas tents offer great insulation
  • Choose the best location to pitch your tent – Look for shaded areas
  • Set your tent up at the right time – Preferably, pitch your tent around sunset
  • Use battery and solar-powered devices – consider using a solar-powered fan or a mini ac (USB-powered)
  • Use a reflective blanket
  • Watch for tent ventilation
  • Build a DIY Air Conditioner

If you want to read more about these tips, read this article.

Conclusion

When going camping with your baby in hot weather, the key thing to note is that babies cannot regulate their body temperature sufficiently as their organisms are still evolving.

Hence, avoid direct exposure to the sun and pay close attention to your baby’s environment. Check other factors like how they are dressed, hydration, campsite, tent insulation and ventilation to ensure safety.

If you notice any symptoms of your baby overheating, try out some cooling remedies, and if they continue to overheat, seek immediate medical attention. If you have questions concerning your baby when camping in hot weather, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.

Solar powered tent air conditioner – What are your options?

Solar devices have become very popular amongst campers. Easy to use and operate, these eco-friendly options are portable and cost-effective. When it comes to making your camping adventure comfier, a natural question arises: is there a solar powered tent air conditioner?

Unfortunately, the majority of the standard AC units consume significant amounts of energy inputs, making it unfeasible to have a solar-powered device. However, you can run a small portable AC with solar power with a few adjustments and equipment.

Let’s go through them below.

solar powered tent air conditioner

How to build a solar-powered tent air conditioner?

To build your solar-powered tent air conditioner, you will need the following parts:

  • An AC unit with low power consumption
  • A battery device able to supply the power required
  • Solar panels to recharge your battery

Choose a tent air conditioner option with low power consumption

Most of the options you will find here are personal air coolers that can be run with limited wattage. Window mounted units, and portable ACs usually have a lower threshold of 5000 Btu (approximately 1500W), which will make it very hard to operate via batteries. 

Therefore, you should pick options like evapolar evachill, which runs with wattages as low as 5W. Other great alternatives are:

Important note: Most of mini AC options available in the market (if not all) work as evaporative coolers, which means they will perform better in dry environments. If you want to know more about camping evaporative coolers, read this article

Choose the adequate solar-powered battery

The equipment wattage and use time will tell you what battery size you need.

For example, let’s consider that, on average, your mini portable AC requires 10W per hour (i.e. Evapolar Evalight consumes only 10W per hour). 

If you operate the device all night long (let’s say 10 hours), you will need a battery that can provide you with at least 100W (for one night). 

So what are the options available in the market? There are many.   If you are only operating your mini AC, we suggest choosing a solar-powered power bank. 

The Riapow Solar Charger 26800mAh can support Evapolar Evachill operation for approximately 26.8 hours without recharging (1mAh = 1 watt * 1000 / Voltage) and cost less than 50 dollars at the time this article is being written. 

The equipment wattage and use time will tell you what battery size you need.

For example, let’s consider that, on average, your mini portable AC requires 10W per hour (i.e. Evapolar Evalight consumes only 10W per hour). 

 If you operate the device all night long (let’s say 10 hours), you will need a battery that can provide you with at least 100W (for one night). 

So what are the options available in the market? There are many.  

If you are only operating your mini AC, we suggest choosing a solar-powered power bank. The Riapow Solar Charger 26800mAh can support Evachill operation for approximately 26.8 hours without recharging (1mAh = 1 watt * 1000 / Voltage).

However, if you have more electronic devices and want a multi-purpose battery, there are excellent alternatives in the market, such as: 

a) Bluetti Solar Generator 2200W – This model is ideal for large groups of campers going outdoors for a couple of days. 

It is probably one of the biggest solar-powered battery devices in the market and comes with 16 ports for all needs (USB, Car Port, AC, 100W PD, and so on). You will not have problems running your mini AC. 

The equipment weighs 62lb (28kg) and it is an excellent solution for your camping trip. You can decide whether to get it with or without the solar panels.

b) Jackery Solar Generator 1000 – Jackery is a solar mobile lithium battery ideal for campers. It provides 1000W at 100V, which will be more than sufficient to run your mini cooler.

Jackery also manufactures other models with different wattages (from 240W to 1500W). The table below summarises its charging power according to each battery size.

How a solar-powered battery works?

The operation of a solar-powered battery is straightforward. You only have to open the solar panels and connect them to the battery – that is it – It is already charging – watch the video below for more details.

What are the alternatives to a solar-powered tent air conditioner?

You can use solar-powered camping fans or battery-powered air conditioners.

We have reviewed five solar-powered fan options available in the market to suit your needs. They already come with their solar panel, so you won’t need to buy a battery. The models that we picked as the best in the market are: 

If you want to read a detailed review of each product, read this article. You can also choose a battery-powered ac option, such as IcyBreeze V2 Pro.

Alternatively, you can decide to try a DIY approach. We wrote a step-by-step guide on how to build your DIY camping air conditioner in this article

 

FAQ

How to cool my tent without a AC unit?

We suggest checking the following tips:

  • Choose the adequate tent fabric.
  • Choose the best location to pitch your tent
  • Set your tent up at the right time
  • Use a reflective blanket.
  • Cool your body down
  • Watch for tent ventilation.
  • Buy a tent for hot weather.
  • Don’t use sleeping bags
If you want to check further details around each tip, read this article. 

How hot is too hot for camping?

The exact temperature that the human being can support heavily depends on air humidity levels. The higher the humidity, the more your body will struggle to cope with the heat, given that it will not be able to cool down internal temperature via sweat. 

Monitor wet-bulb temperatures and ensure that you do not camp on days above 95 Fahrenheit degrees. If you don’t know what is a wet-bulb temperature, read this article.

Conclusion

Even though we can say that it is not possible to run a large AC via batteries, you can use a mini AC unit with a solar-powered battery to create your tent air conditioner.

Among the small units available in the market, we recommend the following models:

They will efficiently run from the following solar-powered energy banks:

Have a comfortable camping trip!

Will a portable AC cool a tent? Discover here!

Scorching days are a challenge when we are camping with our family. Among many options available to air condition a tent, we have portable ac units. However, will a portable AC cool a tent?

A short answer is yes; they will! However, you should pay attention to several issues before buying your mobile devices, such as the cooling output required, tent insulation, power input requirements, noise levels, water leaks and position in the tent.

Let’s go through each of them below.

will a portable ac cool a tent

Tips to ensure that your portable ac will cool your tent

Tip 1 - Pick a portable AC with the adequate cooling capacity

It is essential to ensure that you choose the equipment that suits your needs. We detailed a guide on what size AC you need for a tent, but as a rule of thumb, you should consider the following (read more on what size AC you need for your tent):

  • Insulated tents will need at least 4 BTU per cubic foot.
  • Tents without proper insulation will require at least 5 BTU per cubic foot (25% extra power required)
  • If your tent is exposed to the sunlight for long hours and has no insulation, we recommend at least 6 BTU per cubic foot (50% extra power required)

Therefore, measure your tent and ensure that you neither buy oversized nor undersized equipment. If your tent is small (up to 3 or 4 campers), you might choose a mini portable ac or a battery-powered unit.

Tip 2 - Insulate your tent

Good insulation will improve AC performance and ensure a cooler environment inside your tent. You can do it with simple measures, which are detailed in this article

Tip 3 - Power input requirements

Even though this looks obvious, some campers forget to undertake a simple campsite investigation.

First of all, you should check whether your campground has the electrical infrastructure and if you can pitch your tent close by an electric hook-up. Secondly, check whether the voltage and power output are adequate for your equipment needs.

If you don’t have a proper electric installation, it might be a good idea to consider a battery-powered version.

Tip 4 - Noise Levels

One of the drawbacks of portable ACs is related to their noise levels. In contrast to window ACs and split ACs, which have their cooling units installed outside the room, portable ACs have all the engines and mechanisms in one container. 

The noise levels can be pretty annoying and affect your sleeping patterns. Therefore, give preference to units with noise levels below 60dB (preferably below 55dB, if possible).

Tip 5 - Water Leaks

That is another significant drawback of portable ACs. Most of the equipment will be able to pull moisture from the air and dehumidify your tent. However, moisture will condense and turn into water, which needs to be drained.

A good idea is to connect the plastic hoses and channel the liquids out of your shelter. Some models, such as the Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU, come with extra sealing and a drainage pan that mitigate this issue.

Tip 6 - Pay attention to where you put your portable AC inside your tent

If possible, avoid placing the cooling device close to openings and tent doors – it will be easier for the cool air to escape from your tent. The equipment should be placed where the cold air can flow freely. 

Also, ensure that the device is installed on a flat surface and the power input plugs are close by. Remember that most devices come with exhaustion hoses and ensure that it is long enough to exhaust the warm air outside your tent.

Three portable ACs that will cool your tent - Our recommendations

After thorough market research that took into consideration all the tips above and value for money, we suggest the models that we reviewed in this article

FAQ

What is the best tent air conditioner - a portable AC or a window AC unit?

It depends. A window-mounted unit will provide you with better reliability, no problems with water drain, and potentially be less noisy. On the other hand, a portable AC comes with improved portability and easy installation.

Overall, our recommendation is – if your camping adventures are not long (less than 4 days), consider a portable AC. For long trips (>7 days), a window AC unit might suit better.

Whatever option you decide, make sure you comply with all installation safety requirements.

How do I maintain my portable AC?

We recommend cleaning your AC unit after every camping trip or maximum every three months. When maintaining the device, do the following:

  • Clean the drain
  • Clean and/or replace AC filters
  • Check the coils
  • Remove dust

You can read a detailed guide on maintaining your tent ac in this article.

What is the ideal temperature that my portable AC should provide?

According to the sleep foundation, the temperature range from 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit is considered optimum, with temperatures around 65 degrees Fahrenheit providing you with maximum comfort. 

Conclusion

A portable AC is an excellent option to air condition your tent. They have many advantages compared to a window AC unit, such as portability and ease of installation.

However, you should pay attention to the six points detailed above before picking a portable AC unit for your tent:

  • Pick the adequate portable AC (cooling output)
  • Insulate your tent so that AC performance is maximised
  • Check power input requirements and campsite electric infrastructure.
  • Watch noise levels (prefer units with less than 55dB)
  • Remember that the device will require water drainage.
  • Check the best position to put your mobile device in.

Is there a tent air conditioner heater combo? Check these options!

You have probably been wondering if there is a unique device that would suit you for both summer and winter camping, right? We have great news – there are tent air conditioner / heater combos. 

We have selected and reviewed three options for you based on price, cooling/heating output, and mobility. These portable ac units are great for portability, efficiency and versatility. 

Our top 3 choices are:  

Let’s go through quick reminders to check and then a detailed review of each product. 

Tent air conditioner heater combo - short buyer's guide summary

Before picking our preferred unit, we recommend checking the following items:

We highly recommend reading our detailed buyer’s guide if you have any doubts. 

 

Tent air conditioner heater combo - 3 options to make your camping days better!

SereneLife SLACHT108 - AC/Heater Combo

SereneLife SLACHT108 – AC/Heater Combo is our budget friendly choice. 

Even though this unit costs less than other options, it is still a piece of great equipment. It comes with four options: cooling, heating, dehumidifier (forget about tent condensation!), and a fan.  

Pay attention, though – only models with 10,000 and 12,000 BTU come with heating optionality. For your convenience, it features a remote control that allows you to operate from a distance and regulate the desired temperature. 

You can choose to activate the fan swinging option, which will improve air circulation in your tent. With operating noise levels around 55dB, it provides up to 12,000 BTU in cooling and heating power, ideal for middle to large tents. 

The most potent model weighs 70.3 pounds, whereas the 10,000 BTU only weighs 56.5 pounds. Both models have the same dimensions – 17.4 x 13.4 x 32.1 inches.

Pros

  • Great Value for money
  • Efficient air conditioning and heating
  • Dehumidifier option will eliminate tent condensation

Cons

  • There have been some complaints around noise levels and water leaks

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner Heater – 8,000 Btu

BLACK+DECKER BPP08HWTB  comes with heating and cooling mechanisms that are very efficient and will ensure a cozy night in both summer and winter.

The device is able to bring the environment’s temperature down to 61 Fahrenheit degrees and heat up to 88 Fahrenheit Degrees, ensuring a comfy room under your tent. 

It measures 33.5 x 44 x 69cm and can be easily transported with its wheels and handlebars. BLACK+DECKER BPP08HWTB comes with different cooling capacities (from 5950Btu to 8000Btu), and you can buy with or without the heating function. 

It produces 54dB in the sleeping mode (it is not the quietest model, but not the loudest as well). Maintenance is easy, with its washable filter easily removed and installed back. 

It also comes with 4 different options: air conditioning, heating, dehumidifier, and fan, which ensures that you can use this device all year round. 

Pros

  • Ideal for mid to large sized tents
  • Durability
  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Eco-friendly refrigerant

Cons

  • Noise levels can impact your night

Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP

Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU is another alternative for your combo alternative. What we liked about this device is its auto drain function that exhausts water automatically and decreases humidity levels in your tent. 

With 12,000 BTU output, this model will suit better large-sized tents. It comes with remote control to facilitate remote operation, and you can easily control fan speed and temperature.
Its dimensions are significantly smaller than the previous options – 16 x 17 x 29.5 inches, while it provides significant cooling capacity. However, it does not come with wheels, making mobility and transportation a hassle.
From all tent ac heater combo options, it has the lowest noise levels are the lowest(<52dB).

Pros

  • Eco-friendly
  • Suit large tents
  • Low noise levels
  • Compact
  • No water leaking

Cons

  • Pricey
  • No wheels

FAQ

I have a small tent. Which tent ac heater combo is the best?

All these units are oversized for small tents. We recommend looking at battery powered ac units and a portable heater, such as Mr. Little Buddy

Are portable air conditioner heater combos safe to use in a tent?

Yes, they are. These are electric devices that will work perfectly inside your tent. 

We recommend monitoring overheating when using the heating function, though.

Will a portable air conditioner heater combo increase condensation in my tent?

All the units above come with dehumidifier options, which will control humidity levels and mitigate condensation risks.

Verdict

You will be well-served with any unit detailed above. Overall, our pick is BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner Heater – 8,000 Btu, given it provides excellent efficiency at a great value for money relationship. 

However, both SereneLife SLACHT108 – AC/Heater Combo and Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU are also good options for your camping adventures. 

Luxury tents with air conditioning for a comfy camping season!

Luxury camping have been increasing at exponential rates in the last few years. Also known as Glamping (a combination of words glamorous and camping), it is like going to an upgraded campsite with many hotel room features, including full-sized beds, temperature control, and plenty of space. 

If you are reading this article, you probably wonder whether there are luxury tents with air conditioning? 

Good news – yes, there are. However, the tent air conditioners will probably be purchased separately from your tent and installed on your tent. But don’t worry, installation is easy and quick, with many ac units not requiring any kind of installation. 

luxury tents with air conditioning

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Luxury Tents with Air Conditioning - Summary Review

In a hurry? Don’t worry; we have prepared a quick summary to help you find the best luxury tents with air conditioning optionality for you (a detailed review of each product is found in the following sections, though).

Best Value
WHITEDUCK Avalon
WHITEDUCK Avalon
9.9
  • Canvas Made!
Spacious
JTYX Pyramid
JTYX Pyramid
9.6
  • Canvas made!
Extra Large
WHITEDUCK Wall Tent
WHITEDUCK Wall Tent
9.6
  • Canvas made!

What are the best options for luxury tents with ac openings?

If you want to install an AC unit in a tent, make sure that it has the following features as a minimum:

  • Electric outlets/ports for passing cables through
  • Offer good insulation
  • Lateral openings, which will be used if you decide to go ahead with a window AC option. 

We have chosen 3 models that are great alternatives for luxury tents with air conditioning. 

JTYX Pyramid Tent Yurt Tent Outdoor

JYTX Pyramid Tent Yourt will easily fit a couple inside it and has lots of internal space. With a base diameter of 4m (you also have 3 and 5m options), it can accommodate 2 Queen-size beds or 1 Queen-size bed with two single size beds. 

The tent fabric is made of  285gsm cotton canvas with waterproof PU coating and heavy-duty brown 540gsm waterproof PVC as a groundsheet, ensuring excellent insulation and waterproofness. The tent also come with one stove jacket, allowing comfortably to use it during winter as well. 

Even though it is heavy (28kgs), it is easy and quick to set up, taking approximately 30 minutes to have your shelter ready. Its steel tubes are galvanised, ensuring durability and robustness to the structure. If you decide on a window AC option, it has side openings that will facilitate installation. 

Whatever AC approach you choose, we recommend a model that provides at least 5000 BTU for this tent (our recommendation is BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner – 8,000 Btu)

Pros

  • Good insulation
  • Comes with waterproof coating
  • Stable and heavy-duty

Cons

  • Tent is heavy
  • Pricey
JTYX Pyramid Tent Yurt Tent Outdoor
  • Bell Tent with 3m, 4m or 5m of diameter
  • Made of canvas with PU coating for waterproofness
  • Capacity - 4, 6, 8 campers (recommended)

WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent

WhiteDuck Avalon Canvas Bell Tent is a luxurious tent model that can easily be air-conditioned. It comes in 4 different sizes (heights of 4M, 5M and 6M) with a capacity of up to 10 campers – refer to the image below to better understand potential arrangements.

avalon canvas bell tent - internal arrangement

With lateral openings, electric outlets, and pocket organizers, installing an AC unit in this tent will be hassle-free. It comes with a tremendous value-for-money relationship when compared to other luxury tents.

Its structure is robust with galvanized steel poles and double-stitched seams with reinforced corners for added strength. Its guy ropes come with special UV protection, ensuring maximum durability.

Further, it has a refined and modern design that will draw attention to its sophistication. The tent is made of duck cotton canvas, with excellent waterproofness. 

For this model, we recommend AC units with at least 7000 BTUs (our recommendation is BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner – 8,000 Btu)

Pros

  • The tent is spacious and comfortable
  • It has vents for ventilation that will facilitate window AC installation
  • Easy set-up
  • Great Brand

Cons

  • It is heavy 
WHITEDUCK Avalon Canvas Bell Tent
  • Bell Tent with 4m, 5m or 6m of diameter
  • Made of canvas with waterproof coating 
  • Capacity - 6, 8, 10 campers (recommended)
  • Multiple lateral openings

WhiteDuck Alpha Canvas Wall Tent

WhiteDuck Alpha Canvas Wall Tent comes with multiple size options and can fit up to 18 campers (9 glampers) – it is impressive.

This premium tent made of canvas already comes with a Free-floating PVC Floor. The internal space is enormous, and conversely to the other two models, it has straight walls, increasing interior room. Its side-openings can easily fit a window AC unit.

Each wall tent comes with a sod cloth that is sewn onto the tent ground seam at the bottom of the tent and extends a generous 8″ beyond the tent floor.

It requires 2 to 3 people to assemble, but its structure offers high durability and stiffness. All the seams are double-stitched, corners are reinforced for added robustness.

WhiteDuck Alpha Canvas Wall Tent’s doors have an additional buckle fastening system with an additional flap across the door panels for extra protection.

As previously discussed, this tent comes in multiple sizes. For tents with more than ten people, do not hesitate to buy an AC unit with at least 12,000 BTU (our recommendation is Whynter Elite ARC-122DHP 12,000 BTU).

Pros

  • The tent is spacious and comfortable
  • Lateral vents that accommodate an AC
  • Multiple size options
  • Electric outlets included in tent structure

Cons

  • Not easy to set up
  • Expensive
WHITEDUCK Alpha Wall Tent
  • Wall Tent (multiple sizes - from 7.45m2 to 35m2
  • Made of canvas with waterproof coating
  • From 4 to 18 campers 
  • Large frontal door

How to install an air conditioner in a luxury tent?

Glamping tents are usually spacious and have multiple openings to improve ventilation and mitigate scorching temperatures on summer days. 

Among the multiple options for tent AC units, we recommend using either a portable AC unit or a window AC unit

Portable units are easy to install (most of them do not even require installation), transport, and come with good efficiency levels. On the other hand, window AC units offer better reliability and cooling outputs, but might require some minor adjustments.

To fit a window AC unit in a tent, you can use one of its vent openings and adjust it for the equipment. Most glamping tents come with zippers that let you adjust the opening and install your device (ensure dimensions, though). 

If any adaptations are required, ensure you properly insulate your tent to avoid air leaks

We suggest placing your mounted AC unit above a metallic stand (you can also use wood) so that the device is not directly in touch with the ground.

Luxury tent with air conditioning - how many BTU do I need?

As a rule of thumb, we suggest using the following guidance metrics: 

  • Insulate tents will need at least 4 BTU per cubic foot.
  • Tents without proper insulation will require at least 5 BTU per cubic foot (25% extra power required)
  • If your tent is exposed to the sunlight for long hours and has no insulation, we recommend at least 6 BTU per cubic foot (50% extra power required)

To calculate your tent’s volume (cubic feet), you will need the 3 dimensions of your shelter (length, height, width).  If you want to know further details about these guidance metrics, read our guide on what AC size you should buy for your tent

As an overall guidance, we suggest the following:

SizeVolume (cubic feet)Insulated TentNo insulation (1.25X)No insulation and sun exposure (1.5X)
Small Tents200800 BTU1,000 BTU1,200 BTU
Medium Tents3501,400 BTU1,750 BTU2,100 BTU
Large Tents7002,800 BTU2,500 BTU4,200 BTU
Family Tents1,2505,000 BTU6,250 BTU7,500 BTU

Below are our ac recommendations based on your tent size (noting that for the luxurious models detailed above, we highly recommend at least 5,000 BTUs).

Ideal for small tents
Evapolar evaCHILL
Ideal for Medium Sized Tents
EENOUR QN650 - 2350 Btu
Ideal for medium-to-large tents
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU
Ideal for luxurious large tents
Midea 12,000 BTU (window ac)

Cheaper Alternatives to the luxury models (with AC port)

Apart from luxury models detailed above, we recommend the following tents:

Overall, these models are significantly cheaper than the luxury models (made of polyester / nylon). You can read our detailed review of each of these tents in this article

FAQ

What is the best AC for a luxury tent?

Glamping tents are known to be spacious. Therefore, we recommend portable AC and window AC units, as battery-powered options will not be able to cool down big tents. 

How to insulate my luxury tent for AC?

To insulate a tent for ac, you should consider the following options: 

  • Use a tent tarp
  • Use duct tape and/or pool noodles to suppress any minor leakage
  • Insulate your tent floor
  • Cover your tent with thermal blankets
  • Check your tent material
If you want to read detailed tips on this topic, we suggest reading this article

Conclusion

Luxury tents with air conditioning are wise alternatives to improve your glamping trips. Make sure you choose a suitable tent and match it with the required cooling output.

Whether you decide to go with a portable AC option or a window-mounted unit, ensure that your tent is adequately insulated. It will improve cooling capacity and performance.

How hot is too hot for camping? (And how to keep cool!)

Summer is the preferred camping season for many people. Long days, plenty of sunlight, and perfect weather conditions to pitch are an ideal combination for a camping trip!

However, temperatures can significantly increase and become a worrying factor in some sites. For example, the National Park Service website advises that temperatures in the Yosemite Valley can reach 100°F on summer daysA natural question arises then: how hot is too hot for camping?

The exact temperature that the human being can support heavily depends on air humidity levels. In a nutshell, the higher the humidity levels, the less capable a person will be of handling high temperatures. 

Recent research has shown that the human being can support up a wet-bulb temperature of 95°FBut what is a wet-bulb temperature? We have done a thorough investigation to understand it and detail it below – let’s go through it. 

how hot is too hot for camping

By the way, The Camping Air Conditioner is sponsored by readers. When you buy through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

What is the wet-bulb temperature and why it is important for campers?

Web-bulb temperature is a theoretical measure that combines humidity and temperature levels into one value. It represents the lowest temperature at which the air can be cooled through water evaporation.

Its measurement occurs by wrapping a wet wick around the bulb of a mercury thermometer and measuring what temperature it reaches.  However, for your convenience, there are multiple options for wet-bulb thermometers these days – you don’t need a thermometer and a wet wick.

Our body promotes heat loss via evaporation and we sweat to freshen and regulate the temperature of our organism. However, our sweating capacity might be affected by the presence of water in the air. 

The higher water concentration, the more our body will struggle to cool down (That explains why dry heat feels more tolerable than extreme humidity!). For this reason, the concept of wet-bulb temperature is very important to understand how hot is too hot for a person.

Before going on your next trip, remember to check both humidity levels and temperatures since they might significantly impact your comfort. Check the video below if you want a detailed explanation of the web-bulb temperature concept – it is a very didactic video! 

How hot is too hot for camping then?

The maximum wet-bulb temperature that a human body can tolerate is 95-degrees Fahrenheit, and (wet-bulb) temperatures above 86°F are already considered dangerous. 

Some symptoms that indicate you are close to reaching the maximum your body’s limits are: 

  • Feeling dizzy or light-headed 
  • Having a dry throat (might indicate dehydration)
  • Severe headache that relieves when you go under the shade 

The human body has mechanisms that offer remarkable resilience in hot weather. However, high humidity levels will hinder sweating, make it difficult for a camper to support heat waves, which can lead to heat hyperthermia. 

What is heat hyperthermia?

Hyperthermia is a serious condition that occurs when your body temperature is extremely high. It refers to different conditions when the body’s heat regulation system is overwhelmed by circumstances that it cannot control.

The average body’s temperature ranges from 96 to 99.5°F and temperatures outside this interval should trigger an alarm. If your organism temperature is above 104°F, you might experience severe hyperthermia. By contrast, a body temperature of 95°F or lower is said to be hypothermic.

Hyperthermia comes in different stages, and each stage has symptoms that require serious medical attention and care. Some hyperthermic conditions and heat-related effects on your body include:

  • Fatigue
  • Stress
  • Cramps
  • Exhaustion
  • Low blood pressure

How to Cool your Body while camping?

During the summer, temperatures can skyrocket!

Knowing how to cool your body ensures you are comfortable and helps you avoid dehydration, headache, and other serious complications, such as heart stroke. 

No matter where you are camping in the summer, there are ways to combat the heat and cool your body. 

Here are essential tips that will help cool your body in the summer. 

  • Stay hydrated – Drinking water is crucial to staying cool while camping in hot weather. The circulatory system carries heat from vital organs and muscles to the skin when it is hot. You begin to sweat, and sweat evaporation is the main way the body loses heat. This explains why you sweat a lot when it is hot. So, drink a lot of fluids if you want to keep your body cool. 
how hot is too hot for camping - tips for cool your body down
  • Eat foods high in water content – Foods high in water content will keep you hydrated. Fruits such as watermelon, cantaloupe, and strawberries are good alternatives. Eat lots of vegetables, such as cauliflower, cucumber, and celery. 
  • Use light-breathable clothes – Avoid wearing clothes that make you feel uncomfortable. Play cool with sunglasses or a hat with a wide brim. Also, you can carry an umbrella or parasol for sun protection. Wear loose, light-coloured clothes in natural fabrics. 

Other essentials tips to cool yourself include: 

  • Plan your trip ahead and check weather conditions
  • Set up your tent under the shade 
  • Pick a tent for hot weather – we have reviewed some models in this post
  • Pitch your tent in a ventilated area 
  • If possible, disassemble it during the day. 

How to cool your tent while camping?

Getting better comfort in tents is our speciality – we have prepared a bunch of tips for you, such as:

If you want to learn more about these tips, we suggest reading the articles below. 

FAQ

Is it safe to go camping on summer days?

Yes, there are no problems. Summer is actually the best season for camping, in our opinion. We suggest having a wet-bulb thermometer to monitor temperatures and avoid crossing the 95 Fahrenheit threshold (wet-bulb).

Why do tents get so hot?

Extremely hot tents are a consequence of trapping warm air inside it. This occurs because of the following reasons:

  • Excessive sun exposure 
  • Lack of air circulation / ventilation
  • Incorrect insulation
  • Incorrect use of rainfly 
  • Tent’s size and material

If you want to know more about it, read this article. 

What tent fabric do you recommend for summer camping?

Even though the fabric choice will influence many aspects, canvas tents have increased breathability and better insulation and will perform better under scorching weather conditions. 

There are no problems with using nylon and polyester tents, though. Whatever option you pick, ensure that they have openings and screen rooms/mesh to facilitate air circulation. 

Can I install an window AC unit in my tent?

Yes, you can. Implement some safety measures and you will be fine – we detailed a step by step guide in this article. If possible, use a tent with AC ports – it will make your life much easier. 

Which size (BTU) should my tent ac be?

Based on our experience, different camping conditions will require different cooling power. Overall, we recommend the following: 

  • Tents with adequate insulation will need at least 4 BTU per cubic feet.
  • Tents without proper insulation will require at least 5 BTU per cubic feet (25% extra power required)
  • If your tent is exposed to the sunlight and has no insulation, we recommend at least 6 BTU per cubic feet (50% extra power required)
If you want to learn more about this calculations, read this article. The table below details an overall guidance for you, but we recommend checking your needs according to your tent.  
SizeVolume (cubic feet)Insulated TentNo insulation (1.25X)No insulation and sun exposure (1.5X)
Small Tents200800 BTU1000 BTU1200 BTU
Medium Tents3501400 BTU1750 BTU2100 BTU
Large Tents7002800 BTU2500 BTU4200 BTU
Family Tents12505000 BTU6250 BTU7500 BTU

Which AC unit should I pick?

There are multiple options these days. We recommend exploring the following options:

Conclusion

As discussed above, you should monitor temperatures and humidity levels. The higher the humidity, the more your body will struggle to cope with the heat, given that it will not be able to cool down internal temperature via sweat. 

Monitor wet-bulb temperatures and ensure that you do not camp on days above 95 Fahrenheit degrees. To alleviate warm weather, consider taking a tent air conditioner with you. It will provide you with optimal temperature control.

Have a safe camping adventure!

How to clean a tent air conditioner so it runs like new

If you love camping in the summer, having a tent air conditioner is necessary. A camping ac is a cost-efficient way to keep your tent entire tent cool throughout the summer. 

However, it must be cleaned and maintained for the AC to function at full capacity. Cleaning a tent AC is easy, and manufacturers include a detailed user guide in the manual. Overall, we recommend the following:

  • Clean the drain
  • Clean and/or replace AC filters
  • Check the coils
  • Remove dust

 If you want to know more about maintaining a tent AC, below is our guide with tips on how to clean a tent air conditioner – Check it out!

how to clean a tent air conditioner

Why is it important to clean a tent AC?

During the summer, debris and dust build up in the AC because of its activity. If it’s not cleared up for long, it can cause the unit to malfunction and decrease its efficiency.

In some cases, if you are not cautious and disregard dirt removal, the cooling unit might break down, and you will have to spend money on repairs or replacements.

Furthermore, dust and allergens such as mold can affect your health if you don’t properly maintain them (especially for those with asthma). You won’t feel comfortable in a tent with all the coughing and sneezing caused by the allergens when they are blown into the air.

Therefore, there is no doubt – cleaning a tent air conditioner will save you repair costs while ensuring your health is not affected.

4 tips on how to clean a Tent Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are fitted with many moving parts and powered by some energy source. Safety always comes first; hence turn the device off first to avoid potential electric shocks (even if you are using a battery-powered AC).

Plan your maintenance before heading out on a camping trip so that you ensure equipment runs perfectly on scorching days. 

Clean the drains

When air runs over the coils, it releases more than just heat. As the unit cools hot air in the tent, it also produces water that needs to be drained. Tent air conditioners have a drip pan with a tube attached to help drain out the water.

Whether your AC uses a drip pan or drain, it can be clogged with algae. If that is the case, your tent AC unit will start dripping from other areas when clogged. 

Always check the drainage system or drip pan for algae growth. If present, remove them with hydrogen peroxide or commercial algaecide.

Use a small bottle brush to clean the stubborn tubing for the drainage system. 

Clean or Replace Filters

Tent air conditioners have filters meant to be cleaned or replaced. If you want to buy a larger unit, check the instruction manual carefully because some camping ACs are meant to be replaced rather than cleaned.

How the filter is removed varies by unit, but the steps for cleaning are the same. The role of a filter is to stop dirt and dust from getting inside. 

It needs to be rinsed with clean water or soap water periodically. If you are going to be using it for a few weeks, clean it at the end of each trip. 

Before reinserting the filter into the unit, let the filter dry. You can do replacement when you notice any holes or tears in the filter. 

Check the Coils

Many campers might not know this, but everything occurs at the coils. Dust and dirt build-up on these parts will reduce the air conditioner’s working efficiency. 

When the coils are not working correctly, they will consume more power to produce the same cooling capacity. This will cause the battery to drain fast if you are using a battery-powered tent air conditioner

Before cleaning, inspect the coils for any sign of damage. Use your hands to remove dirt debris, dust, mold colonies. After that, you can use the coil brush and clean in a parallel motion to the fins to help straighten the fins that might be bent. 

After cleaning, allow the coils to dry before assembling the unit again. Remember to rinse in a motion parallel to fins to prevent them from bending

You will be surprised how checking and cleaning the AC coils can improve its operation. 

Remove Dust

The more dust the dust filters have, the harder it will be for the conditioner to function effectively. Manufacturers recommend cleaning dust filters every few weeks, depending on how often you use the air conditioner. So, the more you use it, the more often you should clean the dust filters. 

As a rule of thumb, we recommend at least once per month, given that camping ACs are exposed to high levels of dustiness. However, every six months should be fine if you don’t use it too often. 

If you find the dust filters grimy and dirty, wash them in warm water with mild detergent. Before putting them back, ensure the dust filters are completely dry. 

Conclusion

Cleaning your tent ac is easy and will improve its cooling performance.

Failing to maintain your equipment correctly might lead to poor cooling outputs, dirty air and a potential premature breakdown. 

The tasks detailed above will only take a few minutes, and you won’t require the services of a professional unless it’s something serious. We highly recommend you doing it before each every summer camping trip to ensure you make the most of it!