This summer, there have been numerous record-setting heatwaves that have been making headlines, and they are expected to continue in the coming weeks. This means that those who have upcoming travel plans need to pay extra attention and take proper precautions to ensure their safety.
Navin Khosla, a pharmacist at telehealth and online pharmacy company Now Patient, warns that the extreme temperatures experienced in popular tourist destinations can be extremely dangerous for individuals who are not accustomed to such heat. Therefore, it is crucial to be prepared and take necessary measures to stay safe.
Experts recommend certain strategies for staying safe and healthy during a heatwave while traveling. One important aspect is to stay hydrated. Melissa Yeager, the senior news editor at Lonely Planet, advises starting the day with a glass of water and carrying a water bottle throughout the day. It is advisable to avoid dehydrating beverages like alcohol and to drink more water if having poolside cocktails. For outdoor activities, it is essential to plan routes with water refill points and to refill water bottles once they are halfway empty. It may also be necessary to consider extra hydration boosters and electrolytes to replace the minerals lost through sweating.
During a heatwave, it is important to spend a few hours indoors or in the shade. Checking the weather forecast and advisories will help in planning outdoor activities around the hottest hours of the day. Exploring museums, watching movies, dining indoors, or taking a nap are all great alternatives to engaging in outdoor activities during these hours. Immersing oneself in cultural activities, such as visiting museums and art galleries, can be an enjoyable way to spend time during a heatwave.
Traveling during a heatwave requires adjusting vacation expectations and being gentle on oneself. It may not be possible to visit every attraction, and it is important to prioritize personal well-being over checking off landmarks. Taking breaks, enjoying gelato, and people-watching in a cafe can be just as rewarding as visiting famous landmarks.
To make the most of sightseeing opportunities, it is best to do them earlier in the morning when the heat is not as intense. Recalibrating the day by having shorter night’s sleep and incorporating a “siesta” into the daily routine, as done by the Spanish, can help conserve energy and avoid the hottest hours of the day.
Choosing the right clothing strategy is crucial to staying comfortable in extreme temperatures. Dressing in cool and comfortable clothes and opting for light-colored, natural fabrics like cotton and linen can help keep people cool. It is also important to listen to the body’s signals and be honest with oneself about how one feels. Ignoring these signals can lead to serious health problems, so it is crucial to pay attention to any unusual sensations and seek medical help if needed.
Applying and reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is important to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Using a high-SPF sunscreen and reapplying it every two hours is recommended to prevent sunburn.
Overall, traveling during a heatwave requires taking extra precautions to ensure one’s safety and well-being. By following these tips and being mindful of the extreme temperatures, individuals can enjoy their vacations while staying safe, healthy, and happy.