Hello, fellow van life enthusiasts! If you’re like me, you’ve probably experienced the struggle of keeping cool in your van during a heatwave. Well, I’ve found a game-changing gadget that has significantly improved my van life experience during these sweltering times. Let me introduce you to the tailgate holder – a simple yet effective tool that can make a world of difference in your van’s temperature.
What is a Tailgate Holder?
The tailgate holder is a small device that allows you to keep your van’s tailgate or backdoors open, letting in refreshing air while keeping your van secure. It may not look like much, but trust me, when you’re desperate for some airflow in your van, this little gadget is a game-changer.
How Does It Work?
The tailgate holder is easy to use. You simply pop it into the back of your van, bring your tailgate down until it starts making contact, and then pull your boot so it clicks into place. Once it’s in, it’s not going anywhere, even if you’re driving around.
The tailgate holder keeps your tailgate slightly open, allowing for a lovely bit of airflow through your van. It doesn’t pull it taut, so you do get a bit of noise and movement, but on a windy day, the weight of the tailgate or your barn door will keep it nice and close.
Is It Secure?
Yes, the tailgate holder is secure. Once it’s in place, it’s not coming out unless you take it out at an angle. It’s also designed so that thieves still can’t get in, although I would advise you to assess your own risks.
Additional Tips
For added privacy and bug protection, you can put a net curtain down on the side when using the tailgate holder at night. Also, your van’s system will alert you if the tailgate is not fully closed, so you won’t accidentally drive off with it open.
A Bonus Gadget
On days when there’s no breeze at all, I’ve found another gadget helpful – a simple PC fan connected to a 12-volt adapter. It doesn’t do much, but it does provide a bit of circulation, which can make a difference when it’s swelteringly hot.
Conclusion
The tailgate holder has been a lifesaver for me during this heatwave. It’s a simple, affordable solution that can make your van life experience much more comfortable during hot weather. So, if you’re struggling with the heat in your van, give it a try – it might just be the game-changer you need!
You can pick up a tailgate holder at Amazon for around £10
For more tips on surviving a heatwave in your van, check out my previous post on Van Life Heatwave Survival Tips. And if you’re interested in other van life essentials, you can find more information here.
