It’s lovely to wander round a city designed for heat in the sunshine – but hours outdoors in a heatwave when you’re somewhere that’s really not designed for heat (looking at you, London) is a special kind of hell. Especially if you’ve packed all the wrong clothes.
So, how can you pack for hours on your feet, long queues, and streets fully exposed to the blazing sun without any shade? And little to no air conditioning indoors? Further, how can you dress for these conditions without losing your sense of style?
Don’t worry, it’s not impossible. Here are some ideas:
Balance comfort and style
It may sound obvious, but choose clothes that keep you cool without looking overly casual. Loose dresses, lightweight trousers, and breathable shorts are all great for hot, humid weather because they allow more air to circulate than tight-fitting clothing. That being said, if you do want something a bit closer to the body, check out the SKIMS pants collection, for example, to see how the Californians do it!
As a general rule, if you’re not opting for specialist cooling fabrics, even a thicker dress that’s looser and has some airflow is often better than a lighter, skintight option that will trap heat and sweat against your body. Cotton and linen also often feel cooler against the skin than heavier fabrics – but bear in mind that cotton can get heavy and sticky in sweaty conditions.
Ideally, stick to lighter colors where possible, as darker shades absorb more heat when you’re outdoors for long periods.
Wear shoes you’ll actually enjoy walking in
Your shoes can make or break a day of sightseeing even in moderately temperate conditions. During sticky heatwave conditions, the wrong shoes will make you truly miserable. So, think hard about how much walking you’ve planned before you pack. Supportive sandals are a good idea for relaxed days in towns and cities, while breathable trainers or sandals designed for walking suit longer walks or uneven ground.
Save fashion-first footwear for evenings when you won’t spend hours exploring on foot. And if you’re going to be on your feet for long periods, avoid flip-flops. Yes, they may seem like the obvious choice on a hot day, but they’re actually very bad for your feet if you walk in them all day. Save them for hopping from your hotel room to the beach or pool!
Protect yourself from the sun
Hats weren’t invented to be stylish – they were invented for very good reasons, including protecting us from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat, baseball cap, or lightweight fedora helps shield your face from direct sunlight and protect you from heatstroke while simultaneously adding another layer to your look. Sunglasses also protect your eyes from glare, making it easier to enjoy the views and take photographs without constantly squinting.
Keep accessories simple
Heavy jewellery quickly becomes uncomfortable in hot weather – even your wedding ring will get sweaty and uncomfortable during a humid heatwave. Instead, wear a few lightweight pieces that won’t stick to your skin or feel cumbersome after several hours outdoors. A simple bracelet, necklace or watch usually adds enough interest without making you feel overdressed.
Carry water wherever you go
Hot weather increases the risk of dehydration, particularly if you’re walking for several hours. If it’s humid, you’re likely to dehydrate even faster. So, carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever you have the chance. Stainless steel bottles can also help keep water cooler for longer, which makes them a practical choice for summer sightseeing in a heatwave.
Pack a practical bag
Carry a lightweight bag that holds your essentials without becoming uncomfortable to wear. For example, a small backpack or cross-body bag has plenty of space for essentials like water, sunscreen, sunglasses, your phone and any travel documents. Choose one with secure pockets so you can find what you need without searching through everything else.
Conclusion
Packing for a sightseeing in a heatwave doesn’t require a completely different wardrobe. Choose lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes, and practical accessories that suit the weather and the amount of walking you’ve planned. You’ll stay more comfortable throughout the day and spend less time thinking about what you’re wearing and more time enjoying the places you’ve travelled to see.