We wait all winter for summer to arrive and as soon as it does, we moan about it being too hot. But to be fair, it is hot in the moment. With the temperature rising we’re all looking for ways to keep cool while in our static caravan holiday. Sometimes it’s tough to stay hydrated while out doing fun things with the family but we’ve compiled a few tips that might help keep everyone in the family safe and feeling well while working on your tan.

The warm weather is great but it’s important to know how to stay cool. Adults and children need different things when it’s hot outside but don’t forget the family pet too! Younger children need about a litre of fluids per day, older children need about 1.5 litres and adults need 2 to 2.5. If you’re very active, each family member may need more so pay attention to how you feel and drink even when you’re not thirsty – by the time you feel the need to drink, you’re already on your way to being dehydrated.

Heat stroke—or worse, hyperthermia—are very real things. When your body produces way too much heat, or absorbs way too much heat, it can cause some serious damage. No one wants to spend their holiday in the emergency department getting fluids!

Here are our tips on how you can keep your family and your caravan cool – even when it’s heating up outdoors.

Water, Water, Water

The main thing is to drink water! Think you’ve had enough water? Drink more! Drink it cold – add ice! Staying hydrated it the number one way to combat overheating. Being active outside in the heat makes you sweat to cool down but your body releasing that water also needs replacing – and fast!

Adults need about 2 -2.5 litres of water on hot days. Children need less, of course, but they should be reminded to drink fluids as they’re usually too busy to notice they might need to drink more. Small children (4-8) should have about 1 litre a day while older kids (8-13) should aim for 1.5.

You can get additional water into kids – and adults -by adding some fresh fruit, like cucumber or melons, for added flavour. Milk and other un-sweetened beverages are helpful to meet your goal as well. Remember! Sugar and caffeine have dehydrating effects so should only be used sparingly.

Contrary to popular advice, coffee and soda are fine to drink. The amount of caffeine in them is low enough relative to the amount of water that they’ll still hydrate you if you’re dehydrated. Beer is fine too, so long as it’s a session beer (about 3 to 4 percent alcohol by volume) and not one with a high ABV. Just pace yourself and don’t drink too many.

Avoid the Sun

When possible, avoid the direct sun during the time when it’s mostly hot, likely between the hours of 11am and 2pm. This is when sunburn is most likely to happen and the heat ‘feels’ hottest. Limiting your exposure by going into seaside shops or back to your caravan for lunch can give you a break from the heat and get your ready for the next trip outdoors.

Dress for the Weather

Wear loose, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen in lighter colours that will reflect light instead of absorbing it. Shorts and t-shirts or vest tops are a given but what else is important to wear for a day out in the sun?

Pop on a cap when you’re out battling the rays – it will provide some shade and cool you down.

Your eyes need protection from the sun too, so sunglasses are a must-have for any extended periods spent outdoors.

If you have long hair, you have probably noticed how much hotter it can make you feel when it’s draped around your neck and shoulders. Get that tied back or pulled up, your cooler neck will thank you.

Remember your feet – sandals or flip flips that will let them breathe; having your feet in trainers will only make you hotter!

Some other small tips to beat the heat this summer that we found helpful:

• Let kids pick out a cool water bottle with their favourite design so they’re more inclined to drink
• Fill a spray bottle with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a refreshing spritz to your face after being outdoors
• Exercise early in the morning when the temperatures are lower
• If you’re wearing a cap, wet it with cold water and put it back on to dampen your hair, making you feel automatically cooler
• As appealing as it may be, try to avoid caffeine and alcohol as your go-to drinks as these promote dehydration
• Use wet face cloths to wipe down your face or body, giving you instant (though temporary) relief from the heat

What tips do YOU have to keep yourself cool when the temperature is rising? Let us know by dropping us a line!