Looking for a way to survive the extreme summer heat? Warm weather is wonderful—until the heat has nowhere to go. This guide will help you find the relief you need right away. You’ll discover 7 smart tips and hacks to protect you from the sun, from natural shade to the coolest air-conditioned spots. This way, you’re guaranteed to stay fresh and cool this summer.
Seek out the shade in the park or the woods
Get away from the blazing sun and the hot city asphalt. Large parks and forests are among the coolest places on hot summer days because nature retains heat much less than concrete. Under the trees, the temperature is often a few degrees lower than on the built-up streets. So spread out a blanket, seek out the shade, and bring a cooler to get through the afternoon comfortably during a heat wave.
Cool off by the water or at a city beach
When temperatures rise, cooling off by the water is the fastest way to find relief. Whether you choose to take a dip at a local recreational lake or relax on a lively city beach, the breeze by the water provides instant relief. Be sure to bring your own umbrella or beach tent, though. The sun reflects extra strongly off open swimming areas, so you can burn quickly without even realizing it.
Cool off quickly at the supermarket
Is the heat getting to you? One of the best tips for surviving a heat wave is to take a strategic stroll through Albert Heijn. The supermarket’s air conditioning is usually set so cold that you almost need a jacket. So simply do your daily grocery shopping at an extremely slow pace. This is the ideal way to find free relief from the heat and get an instant cooling break.
Drink plenty of water and replenish your minerals
Drinking plenty of water alone often isn’t enough in the heat because you lose important nutrients through sweating. With the right hydration tips, you can prevent feeling faint or sluggish on hot days. Simply add some electrolytes to your water bottle to instantly restore your salt balance. Use the public water fountains around town to refill your bottle for free while you’re out and about.
Find a terrace with air conditioning
Want to sit outside despite the heat? Then specifically choose a patio with shade under a large awning or near the water. Skip the regular coffee for once and order a refreshing cold drink in a shady spot. On hot days, it’s smart to avoid hot drinks so your body doesn’t heat up unnecessarily.
Visit a museum or library for free air conditioning
When the sun is too intense outside, it’s best to head indoors. Large museums and modern libraries are the ultimate cool spots because the climate control there is always set to “freezer mode.” This is the perfect solution if you’re looking for things to do indoors during hot weather. Not only do you escape the blazing sun, but you also get to enjoy these air-conditioned public spaces without spending a lot of money.
Wear lightweight clothing and cool your body down immediately
Sometimes the best solution lies in simple habits to beat the heat. Choose loose-fitting, breathable clothing made of linen or cotton so your skin can breathe properly. Want to cool down quickly during the hottest part of the day? Place a cold, wet cloth on the back of your neck or take a lukewarm shower. With these practical tips for beating the heat, you’ll feel immediate relief without needing air conditioning.
