Schools are out and summer vacation is here!  For many of us, that means unlimited family time, unforgettable summer evenings, and memorable family vacations.  For this reason, many people save their longest and most adventurous RV camping trips for summertime.

Here are a few tips to beat the summer heat and entertain the kids.

1. Shade Takes Priority
The first thing you should do (after accounting for all of your children of course) when you arrive at your campsite is to set up your RV awning. Awnings are perfect for instant shade and a cool area to eat, play, and visit while enjoying the great outdoors on your RV road trip.

2. Keep It Cool
Always remember to check your RV’s air conditioning system before you head out on that big trip!  Bring along a portable icemaker and small fans for each RV bed too. This way you can ease up on the AC at night and still be comfortable and rested for your next day of activities.  Don’t forget to pack water guns, baby pools for kids and pets, and water balloons for fun ways to cool off.

3. Set Up Near Water
Choose an RV park that offers a lake, river, or pool and set up your RV nearby.  Being near a body of water will be a little bit cooler for you and give you something to do! Most parks that offer swimming areas also have lifeguards on duty during select hours.  Find out when and plan your swim-time to take advantage of them!

4. Let Them Participate
Allowing your kids to help you unpack set up the RV site is a great way to share your passion for RVing with them.  The satisfaction kids feel from learning the ins and outs of RVing stays with them for the rest of their lives and they will never forget who taught them to do it.

5. Back To the Basics
Sometimes we forget the excitement of cooking over an open fire or sleeping in the great outdoors. Try bringing the outside in by lighting the inside of the RV with small lanterns that will give kids the moonlight feel while allowing them to stay cool and enjoy themselves.  Don’t forget to let them roast smore’s outside for a fun family memory!