9 Things That Will Make You Feel Less Anxious During Heatwave Travel
Ever since getting heatstroke in Portugal a few years ago, super-hot temperatures have made me a bit anxious, and heatwave travel is something I avoid. This week, that anxiety is front-and-centre—London is set to get a heatwave with temperatures up to 38 degrees. In a country with extreme humidity, almost no air conditioning, and houses designed to retain heat, there’s a lot to be anxious about (especially when the heat seems to get worse and worse each year, with no signs of stopping anytime soon).
But I’ve also been travelling when it’s this hot out, and although it’s not easy, I plan for the heat (and my anxiety about the heat) by being prepared. Here are the things I pack for heatwave travel:
A large water bottle
I’m terrible at staying hydrated, despite knowing how important it is. Don’t get a mini one because it’s cute; don’t think you’ll buy one at your destination (what if stores are closed?). Keep a large bottle with you, even if it’s empty, so you can keep hydrated as much as possible.
A comfortable hat & UV sunglasses
Staying out of direct sunlight is pivotal for not overheating; even if you’re outside, slip into the shade!
Sunscreen
My non-negotiables for sunscreen are:
It has to be in a format and size I can take through airport security (no aerosols or large bottles)
It has to be SPF 30 or more (SPF 50 is my fave)
It can’t be so thick that it causes skincare issues or breakouts.
If you worry that your sunscreen might need reapplication, these suncreen patches are worthwhile; put them on an easy-to-see area (like arms or legs), apply sunscreen over them, and watch them change colours when it’s time to reapply. These ones from Beame come in a pack of 36!
A travel deodorant
Sometimes, it’s just nice to have one in your pocket for when smells take over. Wild make a really nice one that’s a biodegradable push-top, that takes up as much space than a lipstick
A portable fan
I want to stress that this doesn’t need to be electric! The portable electric fans are cool, but if the batteries die they’re useless. Even a paper fan can help if you’re overheating!
Cooling gel strips
Originally designed for migraine releif, these body stickers cool down wherever you place them (usually, the forehead) without needing to be refrigerated. Would I suggest these as a long-term solution to being overheated? No. But they’ll give a bit of momentary relief if—like me—you get anxious when you overheat.
These were originally marketed for puffy eyes, but I bring them with me during heatwave travel. I like to use them whenever I’m so hot I need to lie down. These ones do need a freezer, so make sure you’re going somewhere with a minibar.
Antiseptic spray.
Heat = sweat, and sweat can lead to more germs and breakouts for me. So I use a cleaning spray that’s meant for babies—antibacterial without a lot of harsh chemicals. I might not be able to stop sweating, but I can make sure that sweating doesn’t cause me problems later!
How are you keeping cool while you travel this summer? Let me know in the comments—and hope everyone’s staying safe in this heat!
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