Whether you’re on a scenic beach vacation or exploring a busy city, hot weather can quickly wear you out and put your health at risk. Dehydration, sunburn, and heat exhaustion are all things that can ruin a trip. However, with the right essentials, you can stay cool, hydrated, and protected throughout your trip.
- Sip, Don’t Slip into Dehydration
When you sweat in the sun, you lose both water and important minerals called electrolytes¹. In this case, plain water might not be enough to make up for what was lost. Stock up on oral rehydration salts or electrolyte drinks they help restore fluids and minerals, which can keep you going all day².
Besides that, carry a reusable water bottle and top up on the go, or go for convenient ready-to-drink options!
*Pro tip: Sip regularly instead of gulping so your body absorbs fluids more effectively.
- Dress to Impress (and Stay Cool)³
When packing for hot weather, pick clothes that are loose and breathable. On the other hand, accessories not only provide extra protection, but they can also elevate your holiday look! A stylish wide-brimmed sun hat (with no holes) or UV-protection umbrella gives you portable shade, while polarised sunglasses shield your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Wear them with a lightweight scarf or cooling arm sleeves for a look that says “vacation-ready”.
*Pro tip: Bright colors offer better sun protection, and they look great in vacation photos, too.
- Plan Around the Heat
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities between 11 am and 3 pm, when it is the hottest2. If you have to be outside, keep a portable USB mini fan or a cooling towel in your bag so you can cool off right away. Cooling patches can also help lower skin temperature and help you feel better on hot days.
*Pro tip: Recharge your body during the midday hours by visiting indoor or shaded attractions.
- Sun Care Is the New Skincare
SPF is not just for the beach; it is something you should use every day⁴ – sun protection products that are lightweight and non-greasy are great for travels. When selecting sunscreen, choose one with a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ as it is for ideal protection⁴. Aloe vera gel is also great for calming skin after being in the sun⁵.
*Pro tip: Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating⁴.
Traveling in hot climates doesn’t have to be a sweaty struggle. With hydration boosters, UV-protection gear, and cooling essentials, you can focus on making memories instead of battling the heat. Visit your nearest CARiNG Pharmacy before your trip and let us assist you in packing the ideal sun-smart travel kit.
REFERENCES:
- Sawka MN, Cheuvront SN, Kenefick RW. Hypohydration and human performance: impact of environment and physiological mechanisms. Sports Med. 2015;45 Suppl 1:S51–60. doi:10.1007/s40279-015-0395-7.
- Gov.UK. Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather [Internet]. London: UK Health Security Agency; 2025 Jul 8 [cited 2025 Aug 10]. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/beat-the-heat-hot-weather-advice/beat-the-heat-staying-safe-in-hot-weather
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. What to wear to protect your skin from the sun [Internet]. Rosemont (IL): AAD; 2025 [cited 2025 Aug 10]. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/what-to-wear-protect-skin-from-sun
- Cancer Council. Sunscreen FAQs [Internet]. Sydney: Cancer Council Australia; 2025 [cited 2025 Aug 10]. Available from: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/about-sunscreen/sunscreen-faqs
- Cleveland Clinic. 8 Hot Tips for Sunburn Relief [Internet]. Cleveland (OH): Cleveland Clinic; 2025 May 21 [cited 2025 Aug 20]. Available from: health.clevelandclinic.org/sunburn-relief
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