Boondocking is a wonderful way to experience true off-the-grid living. However, it can come with challenges … and in the late-summer those challenges are amplified. But don’t be discouraged! Here’s what every RVer needs to plan for when boondocking in the late-summer months.
Boondocking rewards you with an extra level of freedom over full-hookup or resort RVing. Being able to go the extra few miles to get away and be with nature is truly special.
Along with this special feeling, however, comes special challenges. Boondockers are aware of these challenges and not only accept them but welcome them. Most experienced boondockers are well-prepared for the challenges and situations that can arise on a trip.
Having no services evokes the obvious need for water, power, and sanitary requirements. Even late-summer brings the added sun and heat we love so much. This heat adds some extra things to consider while boondocking.
Challenges of Late-Summer Boondocking
- The obvious challenge is keeping cool. An RV sitting in the sun all day can become an oven. Staying cool can become an issue if not prepared for late-summer boondocking.
- Water is another consideration. Both humans and pets will require extra water throughout the day. Additional showers may be necessary as well. Your water storage won’t last as long as during the cooler months. Once the water supply runs out the trip is over until you can find more fresh water.
- That means that water storage will be increased—as will fuel storage. If you use a generator as many do for boondocking, the additional A/C run time can greatly increase your fuel usage.
- Wildlife always has to be a consideration when camping and even more so if you are in remote areas. During late-summer everything is active, including some creepy crawlies and serpents that hide for the colder months.
What Every Camper Needs for Boondocking in the Late-Summer
Being prepared is always beneficial and when boondocking it is a necessity. What every camper needs to know is no matter how prepared you are things can still go wrong. Put yourself in the best position by thinking about these important factors.
It’s Going to Be Hot!
This is what summer is all about, sunny days and high temperatures. Late summer is no different. Most RVs are equipped with air conditioning systems, however, they require AC power to operate. This means they won’t run off of your battery power.
Generators are commonplace for most boondockers and solve a lot of problems associated with being off-grid. Keep your generator serviced and running at its best to help prevent problems.
Running the A/C for extended periods and even through the night may be an unfortunate reality when boondocking in the late-summer. Always keep other boondockers in mind. Chances are they don’t want to hear your genset humming away at all hours. That means finding a location where the noise won’t affect other RVers’ experiences. That said, don’t underestimate the amount of fuel you will need to have on hand to keep your generator running.
If air conditioning isn’t an option or you don’t have a generator, you have to be smart about climate control. Leaving your rig parked in the direct sunlight is going to make for a sweaty night of tossing and turning.
Look for shade and be aware of the direction of the sun. If you can keep your RV cool during the hottest parts of the day it will be much more comfortable inside.
Water … More Water
Water can be the limiting factor to a boondocking trip. Late-summer temperatures require us to consume more water in order to stay hydrated. Pets are included in these calculations and when combined, this can mean many extra gallons of water.
Always overestimate water consumption. You won’t be sorry you did. Keep water stored in the shade and easily accessible. If you have pets, make sure they have a large bowl or gravity-fed water dish that stays cool in the shade as well.
Onboard freshwater supplies may not last as long as usual during late-summer boondocking. If you are outdoors and active, additional showers may be a nice option. Having full tanks and topping them off whenever possible—even if it’s just a few gallons—is something every camper needs to do.
Who Wants Hot Soup on an Even Hotter Day?
Along with your cold drinks, you are going to want easy-to-make refreshing meals. Lighting up the stove on a hot day is going to increase the temperature inside your RV. Sitting beside a fire cooking isn’t really refreshing either.
Pack foods that can be eaten cold or require little preparation. Lots of fruit to help hydrate and refresh in the late-summer is always nice.
Shade Can be Hard to Find
Most RVs have awnings, and during the summer and late-summer they are needed on a regular basis. If you don’t have one consider adding it to your RV. If you do have one make sure it’s in good condition and working properly.
Shade can be provided by tarps, blankets, vehicles, and lots of other stuff you will have with you. Being able to block direct sunlight, especially during peak hours, is going to be key to a comfortable summer day.
The Good Life
Boondocking might just be the ultimate getaway. Your RV has all the comforts of home, and you’re away from the hustle and bustle of RV parks and city life. The extra challenges are so worth it and if you prepare for your trip it’s pretty easy. Late-summer heat can be both a blessing and a curse, so be prepared if you’re going boondocking before fall arrives.
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