While there isn’t really a bad season for travelling, summer is likely the most popular. However, with temperatures soaring, it is quite important to beat the summer heat during your travel. The heat can cause all sorts of problems, from headaches and dehydration to sunburns. So, it is recommended that you go prepared to combat the warmer weather.
Don’t let the temperature get you down; here are some tips to beat the summer heat during your travel
Also Read: Tips for Skin Care During Summer Travel
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Wear loose-fitting and lightweight clothes
Plan to dress as lightly as possible, wearing loose-fitted, light coloured clothes and breathable fabrics, such as cotton and linen. They allow air to circulate against the skin, making you feel cooler. Also, cover your head with a hat or bandana.
Remember, if you’re visiting a place with desert-like conditions, make sure your clothing covers as much exposed skin as possible to protect from the harsh sun.
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Don’t forget your sunscreen
The sun can be brutal in the summer, even on what seems like an overcast day. So, it’s essential to apply sunscreen whenever you’re outside, especially at midday. This is regardless of whether your skin burns, tans or not, as sunscreen protects against harmful UV rays, and helps prevent sunburn.
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Drink a lot of water
It’s vital to stay hydrated when it’s hot outside, and you’re likely to sweat a lot. So, drink lots of water to keep yourself cool. Buying packaged water can sometimes be expensive, so consider carrying a bottle with you. Avoid dehydrating beverages like sodas, alcohol and caffeine.
You can also add electrolytes (or a bit of salt and a few drops of lemon) to replenish the minerals lost while sweating.
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Know what foods to eat and what foods to avoid
Eat light foods and try to avoid oily and greasy dishes as much as possible, as they reduce the amount of water in your body. Vegetables and salads are a good bet, as are fresh summer fruits that contain lots of water, such as watermelons, tomatoes, oranges, peaches, plums and grapes. They help to replenish vital micronutrients.
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Check if your hotel has air conditioning
Don’t assume that your hotel has air conditioning; check before you book. Air conditioning can be a lifesaver in the hot summer, so it is often worth it to pick an AC room, even if it means paying a little extra. If this just isn’t an option, consider getting a small travel fan and placing a bowl of salted ice directly in front it, or putting a wet towel over an open window, to circulate some cool air.
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Consider carrying a fan
You can also carry a paper or cloth fan to provide some relief while you’re on the go. Another option is to invest in a small battery-powered hand-held fan to keep away the worst of the heat.
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Look for shade wherever you can
Try to stay in the shade whenever possible. Lots of museums and attractions have air conditioning, and many stone churches and cathedrals tend to be cool, so stopping at these places will be both interesting, and help you to beat the heat for a while. You can even plan your day so that you visit such places during the hottest hours of the day.
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The best time of the day to step out
Speaking of planning your day, try to set out early before the sun is at its hottest, or after sunset so that you can avoid hot afternoons. If you have the time, return to your accommodation in the afternoon and wait out the heat by having a long lunch, or a nice nap, before setting out again in the evening.
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Summer health tips to remember
The heat can cause lots of health issues, from mild sunburns and rashes to more serious heatstrokes. Aloe vera can help with sunburns, as can ice packs and cold water. Wetting your head can also help to stay cool; while holding your wrists under cold water or an ice pack will quickly bring down your core temperature.
Remember, if you start to feel dizzy and nauseous, they may be signs of heat cramps, exhaustion or heat stroke, so rest up. If it persists, visit a doctor.
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When all else fails, go eat ice cream
Nope, this isn’t a joke, or an even excuse to gorge yourself on ice cream. Cold foods like ice cream give you relief from the heat, at least for a while, by lowering your core temperature. Though this wears off after a while, just take that as an excuse to have some more!
Also Read: A Checklist of Must Have Summer Travel Items
Many travellers try to beat the summer heat by visiting cooler destinations. But, by following the tips above, all kinds of summer travel can be enjoyable. Do you have any other tips to beat the summer heat while travelling? If so, share them in the comments below.
