Record-setting heat waves have made summer travel particularly challenging. Experts share the most common mistakes people make when traveling in extreme heat — and how to stay safe.
Hydrating Incorrectly
"Start your day with a glass of water. Bring a bottle with you," advised Melissa Yeager, senior news editor at Lonely Planet. "Try to avoid dehydrating beverages. If you are doing outdoor activities, plot out places to refill water along the way."
Water alone may not be enough in extreme heat. You also need to replace electrolytes — sodium, potassium and magnesium — that help your body absorb hydration and regulate muscle and nerve function.
Eschewing Indoor Activities
"There's a tendency to feel as though you have to be outside when you're on holiday, but during a heat wave, it's important to spend a few hours of the day indoors or in the shade," said Huw Owen, co-founder of TravelLocal.
"Midday to late afternoon is usually the hottest," Yeager said. "Instead, opt for activities like museums, movies, or eating indoors."
Trying To Do Too Much
"Be gentle on yourself in terms of vacation expectations during a heat wave," Yeager said. "We get so little vacation time. People feel pressure to pack everything into one vacation."
"Embrace the Italian phrase of 'dolce far niente' — the joy of doing nothing," she urged. "Spending time eating gelato and people-watching in an Italian café can be just as rewarding as checking off several landmarks."
Sleeping In
"The early morning or the evening is when days are at their coolest, so save walking around for these times," Owen said. Consider recalibrating your schedule: rise early, build in a midday rest, and enjoy the cooler evenings.
Choosing The Wrong Clothing Strategy
"It might be tempting to wear as little as possible when it's hot, but covering up with light fabrics can help you feel much cooler," said Justin Chapman, a travel expert at Go2Africa. "Stick to light-colored, natural fabrics like cotton and linen — breathable and cool, unlike synthetic fabrics that trap heat."
Ignoring Your Body's Signals
"The most common mistake is not being honest with yourself about how you feel," said Dr. Gregory Katz, a cardiologist. "People push through any weird sensations, ignoring the cues their bodies are sending."
If you manage chronic health conditions, pack your medications and continue taking them consistently during your trip.
Skipping Sunscreen
Choose a high-SPF sunscreen and reapply at least every two hours. "You can get sunburn even if it's cloudy or windy," noted pharmacist Navin Khosla. It doesn't take much time in the sun for your skin to burn.
Too Much Direct Sun
Limit direct sun exposure and avoid peak sun hours during midday. "Try a backward beach day — head to the beach in the late afternoon, when temperatures are a little lower, so you can still get some vitamin D," Chapman suggested.