Summer 1999 Update: I recently upgraded my heat shields to the more durable "All Weather Space Blankets" from MPI Outdoors (http://www.mpioutdoors.com/product.htm). They are somewhat larger and much stronger than the thin poly blankets.
If you frequently camp in open, unshaded
sites, these bunk end heat shields will help keep your camper cool during
the day. If you use air conditioning, your AC unit will not have to work
as hard. They use reflective Mylar film, commonly known as a "Rescue Blanket"
or "Space Blanket", available at camping stores for $2.50 or so.
Find a way to attach the reflective
Mylar film to your tent roofs. I use 1/8" inch diameter bungee cord and
snap-in grommets on the Space Blankets.
Close-up of grommet and shock cord
attachment to the Space Blanket. This is the type of snap-in grommet that
does not chop a hole in the Mylar film. Once the Mylar film is punctured
or ripped, it tears very easily.
Camper with heat shields undergoing
proof-of-concept testing at the Anderson Pop-Up Proving Grounds in Vienna,
Virginia.