Cities across Europe are experiencing a historic heat wave, with triple-digit temperatures setting all-time records in countries like France, Denmark, the U.K. and more. Millions of Americans faced heat advisories in June, from Texas to the Pacific Northwest, and Europe’s heat wave is expected to move to the U.S. next.
Extreme heat can make your vacation less comfortable, throw a wrench in your plans and even be downright dangerous — but that doesn’t mean you have to stay home. With some basic precautions, you can still make your dream summer trip a reality.
Here are our top tips to stay safe and comfortable when traveling in a heat wave.
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Avoid peak sun hours
There’s a reason why residents of many Mediterranean and Latin American countries partake in the midday siesta tradition: It’s too hot to get anything done outside.
Travelers can benefit by taking a leaf from these countries’ books. Stay indoors during the height of the midday heat and save outdoor pursuits for the early morning and the evening (ideally after the sun has gone down). In some countries, air conditioning may be unavailable in some hotels and restaurants, so consider climate-controlled places like museums or underground attractions like caves and catacombs.
This won’t just make your trip more enjoyable (and less sweaty); it’s also a safety precaution. The World Health Organization estimates that nearly half a million people around the world die from heat-related causes each year.
When you do venture outside, don’t forget about the sun. Even if you’re exploring the outdoors during the cooler hours, the sun can be deceptively strong — and you may not feel its effects until you wake up the next day with a terrible sunburn or even sun poisoning. If you plan a picnic in the park, for example, find a shady spot to hunker down in. And be sure to wear ample sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses and hats!) during outdoor activities, even if you’re just walking around a city.
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Stay hydrated
In a heat wave, dehydration, sunstroke and heat exhaustion can strike faster than you’d expect — and few things put a damper on a vacation like a trip to the hospital. Perhaps the most important step you can take to prevent an emergency situation is to stay hydrated.
Carry a water bottle with you, especially in places like Europe where drinking fountains are scarce. A packable bottle like this one can help you save space. It’s a good idea to avoid alcohol, which will further dehydrate you; Paris has even imposed beverage restrictions during the current heat wave.
Dr. Jenny Yu, head of medical affairs at Red Ventures website Healthline Media, says it’s important to “stay hydrated, but also remember to keep electrolytes balanced.” You need to replenish the sodium you lose through sweat; otherwise, you may be at risk of a dangerous condition called hyponatremia. To prevent this, supplement your water intake with the occasional salty snack or electrolyte beverage. Yu recommends avoiding sugary drinks in favor of unsweetened or lightly sweetened options.
If you can find a public fountain or water park to cool off, dive right in — just mind the local regulations, as tourists have been fined and banned for frolicking in historic landmarks. And be careful when swimming in unfamiliar waters: Around 40 people have drowned during the current heat wave while trying to cool off in canals and rivers, according to French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu.
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Pack the right gear
Your wardrobe can help you stay comfortable and safe when traveling during hot weather.
“Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight,” advises the National Weather Service. Leave black garments at home, as these will absorb sunlight and make you feel even hotter, and pack comfortable walking shoes that won’t pinch or rub if your feet swell.
Your clothes can serve double duty as sun protection, too. Don’t forget a well-ventilated, wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, head and neck, as well as plenty of sunscreen for any uncovered areas.
A portable fan can also come in handy to keep you cool during high-temp travels. TPG senior writer Tarah Chieffi swears by this one, and this sleep fan saved writer Stephanie Stevens’ European vacation last year.
Related: What to pack for a European summer trip
Plan ahead and be flexible
In the midst of a heat wave, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead and do your research.
Extreme temperatures can cause events, attractions and transportation to be disrupted or shut down altogether. For instance, Milan’s Pride march was postponed to cooler evening hours, while Germany’s National Express rail line suspended some trains to mitigate the risk of swollen train tracks.
Check relevant websites ahead of time for the most up-to-date information on your travel plans, and be prepared to adapt. It’s a good idea to book refundable activities where possible, and to have a backup plan in case some parts of your itinerary become unavailable or unfeasible due to the heat.
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Bottom line
The current heat wave may not be great news for travelers, but it doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Follow these tips to travel safely in high temperatures and make the most of your summer vacation.
Booking refundable travel is also a particularly good idea this time of year. If your destination gets trapped under a heat dome, you can cancel and rebook in a more comfortable destination. There are plenty of coolcation spots in Europe and around the world to help you beat the heat.
