Condensation and foggy windows can occur when there is moisture or high humidity in the air, particularly overnight or during cold, wet or humid weather.
This can be especially common when travelling in tropical and high-humidity climates, such as North Queensland, where there is naturally more moisture in the air.
Condensation can also build up overnight when sleeping inside the vehicle, as breathing naturally adds moisture to the air.
If your windows are fogged up, follow these steps:
Use the Air Conditioning and Fans
Turn on the A/C: Use the air conditioning even if the weather isn't hot. The A/C helps remove moisture from the air inside the vehicle and can clear condensation more quickly.
Direct the airflow towards the windscreen: Select the windscreen/demister setting or point the air vents towards the windscreen and increase the fan speed.
Turn off recirculation: Make sure the ventilation system is bringing in fresh air from outside rather than continuously recirculating the humid air inside the vehicle.
Open the Windows
Open the windows slightly: If conditions allow, open the side windows a little to improve airflow and allow humid air to escape.
Wipe Away Excess Moisture
Use a clean, dry cloth: If there is heavy condensation, use a clean microfibre cloth or towel to wipe excess moisture from the inside of the windows.
Help Prevent Condensation Overnight
When sleeping inside the vehicle, ventilation is important, particularly in tropical or humid climates.
Where safe and practical, keep a window slightly open overnight to allow fresh air to circulate and help reduce moisture build-up.
For additional ventilation while keeping insects out, mosquito nets are available to hire for the rear windows.
Regular ventilation also helps reduce excess moisture, musty smells and conditions that can encourage mould growth inside the vehicle.
Wet clothing, towels, swimwear and other damp items can also increase humidity inside the vehicle, so try to dry or ventilate these items outside the vehicle where possible.
Before Driving
Always make sure the windscreen, side windows and mirrors are clear and your visibility is not obstructed before driving.
If the windows begin to fog up again while driving, use the windscreen demister, A/C and fresh-air settings to help clear them.