How to Stay Cool While Travelling During a Heatwave
Summer holidays are something many of us look forward to all year, but when temperatures soar, a little planning can make the difference between an enjoyable adventure and an exhausting experience.
Whether you’re exploring the British countryside, strolling through a seaside town or discovering somewhere new abroad, staying cool helps you make the most of every moment.
Start Your Day Early
The coolest part of the day is usually first thing in the morning. If you’re planning a walk, sightseeing or visiting an attraction, try to head out early before the strongest sunshine arrives.
You’ll often find places are quieter too, making your visit even more relaxing.
Keep Drinking Water
It sounds obvious, but it’s surprisingly easy to forget to drink enough when you’re busy enjoying yourself.
Carry a reusable water bottle and take regular sips throughout the day rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.
Dress for Comfort
Loose, lightweight clothing in light colours helps keep you cooler. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will also protect you from the sun while making long days outdoors much more comfortable.
Don’t forget sunscreen, even if it feels cloudy.
Take Plenty of Breaks
There is no prize for rushing through your holiday.
If the temperature becomes uncomfortable, find a shady park bench, enjoy a leisurely lunch, visit a museum or simply sit in a café with a refreshing drink.
Some of the nicest holiday memories come from slowing down and watching the world go by.
Travelling With Your Dog
If your four-legged friend is joining you, remember they’re feeling the heat too.
Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when the ground has cooled down. Always carry fresh water for them, and never leave a dog alone in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes.
A simple test is to place the back of your hand on the pavement for several seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Listen to Your Body
Everyone experiences heat differently, especially older travellers or anyone with underlying health conditions.
If you begin to feel tired, dizzy or uncomfortable, don’t push yourself. Find somewhere cool, have a drink, and allow yourself time to recover before continuing your day.
Remember, holidays are about making memories, not racing from one attraction to another.
Christine’s Travel Tip
One of the greatest joys of travelling is giving yourself permission to slow down.
If the weather is particularly hot, treat yourself to an extra ice cream, enjoy a cool drink in the shade and simply watch the world pass by. Those peaceful moments are often the memories that stay with us long after the holiday has ended.
Barney Says…
“If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for my paws. Let’s wait until it’s cooler before we go exploring together!” 🐾
Whatever your destination this summer, take your time, stay hydrated and enjoy every adventure safely.
Happy travels!
