Essential tips for hot summer days

This is a collaborative post.

When it’s sweltering outside, staying cool while saving on energy bills can be tough! So, what can you do? The big thing is to keep hydrated, stay in the shade, and wear plenty of sunscreen. Aside from that, there are plenty of other tips to keep you cool while you enjoy the warm summer days. 

From sneaky treats and activities the kids will love to stay cool at work or on the go, we have you covered from all angles this summer. So, pack your reusable water bottle and buckle up, because these tips will have you wanting to plan some fun! 

Chill out with frozen treats

Nothing is quite like a popsicle or other frozen treat on a hot summer’s day. Better still, you can make some delicious frozen goodies with things you already have at home the whole family will love, including your furry friends!

Frozen fruit is delicious, especially if you dip a banana in chocolate or dip grapes in some Jell-O crystals! But did you know you can also freeze yoghurt or blended smoothies for even more delicious frozen treats?

Great for you, the kids, and even your dog can enjoy a frozen blend of yoghurt, banana and berries, maybe with a cheeky spoon of peanut butter added to the mix.

If you have ice lolly moulds, you can also freeze juice, soda or even coffee! Juice boxes are also incredibly easy to pop into the freezer, wait a few hours and cut off the top to give to the kids (or yourself) to enjoy with a spoon. You not only get a yummy treat, but you save on store-bought popsicles and excess plastic, too. 

Create your oasis

Why fight the crowds at the beach or lake when you can create your own cool summer oasis at home in your backyard? You don’t even need a pool, although it sure does help, even if it is a kid’s inflatable pool.

To create your oasis, you’ll need to find or create shade. If you already have some tree cover to set up under, that’s perfect. But if you don’t have any, a light-coloured umbrella is ideal as darker colours can actually retain heat.

Once you have your shading, it’s time to give yourself (and anyone joining you) somewhere comfortable to sit. Some lawn chairs are perfect, but so is a rug or blanket and some cushions on the ground. Just ensure you’re in the shade!

Now, how to keep the kids busy! This is where that pool would come in handy. But, a slip ‘n’ slide, sprinkler or mister will do just as well at keeping everyone cool and entertained — just be sure to check your local drought conditions!

If you are lucky enough to have a pool, throw in some fun floaties and other inflatables to lounge about on, and you have yourself a mighty fine oasis.

As the sun sets, throw up some string lights or lanterns, switch your water in your reusable cup for a fun mocktail (or cocktail), and carry on the fun!

Have a beach or picnic essentials kit close by

Hot summer days call for a trip to the beach, lake or park, and it’s always good to be prepared. Having a kit with beach or picnic essentials close by, even kept in the trunk of your car, means you can up and go whenever the urge strikes.

Things to always include in your outdoor trip kit include:

• Sunscreen
• Wide-brim hats
• Water-resistant beach blankets
• Beach towels
• Jugs of water or water containers
• Reusable drink bottles to top up with water as you need

You’ll also want to put on or grab your UV-protective swimwear, sunglasses, and your favourite refreshments. Just be sure to keep out of the sun and seek shade when possible.

When in the sun, be sure to reapply your sunscreen and try to cover up your skin as much as possible. Even on cloudy days, those UV rays can still pack a punch!

Sip ‘n go!

Remember, staying hydrated on hot summer days is even more important. Warmer days can really strip the hydration out of us, so it’s important to replenish ourselves.

Keeping a reusable drink bottle with you, in the car or in your bag can help you always have water within reach. An insulated bottle can also help you keep your water cold all day; simply topping up some ice in the morning to keep it ultra refreshing with every sip.

If you’re feeling fancy, you could add some berries, citrus fruits or other fruits, veggies and herbs to make your water something you want to drink and keep you hydrated.

Reusable bottles and cups with straws are also handy for adults and kids. It helps you hydrate on the go, and can help your youngsters drink as they need without the risk of spilling all over their outfit as you run out the door or in the car! 

Make your summer adventure list

It can be tempting to stay indoors with the fan or air blasting on us when it gets warm. But the warmer weather is great for getting outside and exploring, especially when there is a nice breeze later in the afternoon.

To encourage yourself to get outdoors and stay active this summer, try making yourself an adventure bucket list. You could give yourself an activity to tick off every week or whenever your schedule suits.

What you include on your adventure list depends on what you like to do and what is available to do near you. Some suggestions include:

• Hiking
• Paddleboarding or even surfing
• Outdoor yoga or other fitness classes or activities
• Exploring local parks, nature reserves and waterfalls
• Local thrills, like go-karting, hot air balloon rides and more

You can also hop in the car and go on a road trip, stopping off at places you always say you’d love to check out or taking roads you’ve never explored. 

There you have it—tips and tricks to keeping cool in the summer heat. Whether you’re adventuring, staying in, or building your backyard oasis—whatever you do this summer, stay safe, stay cool and stay hydrated!