In late June 2026, France experienced an exceptional heatwave: the national average heat index hit 30°C, 72 departments were placed on red alert, and on June 24–25 Paris saw temperatures above 40°C. Most motorhomes lack a stationary air conditioner that works with the engine off, causing the cabin to heat up to 50°C or more. According to BFM, temperatures inside vehicles without cooling rise to 36°C.
Owners are widely changing their plans: they choose northern destinations (UK, Scandinavia, the Baltics), postpone trips to autumn, or cancel them altogether. At the municipal parking area in Château-Gontier (Mayenne), only two motorhomes were parked instead of the usual 50. Parking lots offer no shade, and campsites are expensive — about 40 euros per night versus 15 euros for a parking spot. Shaded spots at campsites are in high demand.