It’s no secret that staying cool in your food truck during the summer can be a challenge, so it’s important to make sure that your food truck is ready to handle the demands of hot weather. As it turns out, there are plenty of cheap and easy ways to beat the summer heat without beating up the environment or your wallet.

In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and tricks to keep cool in your food truck, so you can keep your business running smoothly all summer long.

One of the first things you can do to keep your food truck cool during the summer is to park it in the shade whenever possible. This may seem obvious, but it’s an important step that can make a big difference in the temperature inside your food truck.

If you’re lucky enough to have access to a shady spot, take advantage of it! Not only will this help keep your food truck cooler, but it can also reduce fuel consumption by keeping the engine and generator from working as hard to maintain temperatures.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Parking a food truck or trailer in direct sunlight exposes it to the sun’s rays, which can significantly heat the roof. Furthermore, the street beneath the food trailer undergoes the same heating process before you arrive, meaning you face heat from both above and below.  To prevent this, park your food truck in a spot that avoids direct sunlight as much as possible.

Open the windows at night or whenever there’s a breeze to create a crosswind in the vehicle, which can greatly aid in cooling the interior. Additionally, consider covering the truck’s windows with blackout curtains or windscreen covers to block sunlight and heat effectively.

If your food truck is equipped with an awning, be sure to set it up when you’re parked. This will provide much-needed shade not only for your customers but also for the interior of your food truck.

The awning also provides shade for the service window and extends to the side of the food truck, offering protection for both customers and employees from the harsh rays of the sun.

Opt for loose-fitting, breathable clothing that can wick away sweat and keep you cool. Avoid dark colors as they absorb more heat and opt for light-colored options instead.

Additionally, consider investing in cooling neck wraps or vests that can help regulate your body temperature while working in a hot environment.

During hot weather, it’s best to prioritize serving cold or room temperature food rather than hot dishes. This will not only keep your customers cool but also reduce the amount of heat generated in the truck from cooking.

Avoiding the use of your stove, oil fryer, or microwave in your food truck will help reduce the internal heat, enabling you to stay open longer and serve more customers.

A cost-effective and effortless way to beat the summer heat is to take a few towels or old rags, dampen them, and place them at the bottom of the fridge. Later, remove them and drape them around your neck for a refreshing cold wrap!

Staying properly hydrated is essential, especially during the sweltering summer months. While water is the best choice, certain beverages can be more effective at quenching your thirst. Sports drinks that contain electrolytes like sodium and potassium can serve as excellent alternatives when needed.

Keep your refrigerator closed as much as possible, only taking food out in batches.  Your fridge won’t have to work as hard to stay cool, which again, saves you energy. Additionally, keep your refrigeration unit well-maintained to ensure it is running efficiently and effectively.

Appliances produce heat, so a key strategy for keeping your food truck cool during the summer is to turn off as many kitchen appliances as possible. While it’s true that your mobile food business relies heavily on the kitchen for generating revenue, it’s essential to minimize the heat load whenever you can.

Portable fans are a great investment for any food truck during the summer months. They can help circulate air inside the truck and keep things cool, especially during those hot and humid days.

Be sure to strategically place fans throughout your food truck to maximize their effectiveness. You may even want to consider investing in a portable air conditioner for extreme heat conditions.

If available in your area, consider cooking outdoors. Using an oven or grill can quickly heat up the confined space of a food cart. However, be sure to check your state’s regulations, as some cities may permit this practice.

Remember, staying cool isn’t just about comfort, it’s also a crucial element for the success of your food truck business during the scorching summer months. Running a food truck in the summer can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can beat the heat and keep your cool.