Hiking in the summer can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. However, it is important to be aware of the risks of heatstroke, especially if you are hiking in hot and humid weather.

Heatstroke is a serious medical condition that occurs when your body temperature rises to dangerously high levels. It can be caused by strenuous activity, dehydration, or exposure to hot weather. Heatstroke can lead to brain damage, organ failure, and even death if it is not treated promptly.

In this blog post, we will share some tips to remain cool when hiking in summers. Following the tips can be a life-saver during an outdoor adventure in summer.

1. Drink Plenty of Water

One of the biggest risks when hiking in summers is dehydration. Dehydration is a serious medical condition that can occur when your body doesn't have enough water and fluids. It can cause a range of physical and mental symptoms, including dry mouth, weakness, fatigue, headache, and dizziness.

Severe dehydration can lead to more serious complications, including muscle cramps, decreased urine production, and kidney damage. If left untreated, dehydration can even be life-threatening. It's crucial to stay hydrated to avoid these dangers.

You must bring adequate water or other electrolyte-rich fluids. The human body can only absorb up to 1 liter of water per hour, so don't hesitate to drink plenty of water. When hiking and sweating, your body loses both water and essential minerals and electrolytes. To maintain a healthy balance, consider taking electrolyte supplements and carrying salt with your water if you plan to hike all day.

2. Wear Light Clothing

Selecting appropriate clothing for your hike is crucial for comfort and functionality. You should select light-colored clothing, such as tan or khaki, as it can reflect the sun's rays away from your body and keep you cooler.

Additionally, clothing with zipper vents can allow cool air to flow through and prevent air from getting trapped against your skin, providing further comfort during your hike.

3. Buy Ultralight Backpacking Gear

A good lightweight backpacking gear can prevent you from getting hot easily during intense heat of summer. A heavier backpack will trap more heat, making you feel hotter. In contrast, a lightweight backpack will allow your body heat to escape more easily, keeping you cooler.

Ultralight backpacking gear such as the Aarn Featherlite Freedom 50-55L Backpack - Light Hiking Gear is Ideal for outdoor excursions. The lightweight backpack is equipped with convenient attachments that can accommodate a variety of tools and accessories, including carabiners, ice axes, trekking poles, and ice clippers.

A lightweight backpack will have more ventilation, allowing air to flow through and cool you down. A lightweight backpack will also be easier to carry, so you can conserve your energy and stay cooler.

Carrying ultralight backpacking packs will help you remain cool and enjoy your hiking experience more fully by reducing physical strain, increasing mobility and agility, improving balance and stability, increasing speed, and reducing your risk of injury.

You should also consider X flow straps rather than sternum straps for carrying the lightweight camping gear. These straps spread the load evenly allowing you to breathe easily and remain cool when hiking.

4. Wear a Hat

A hat serves not only as a fashionable accessory but also as a protective measure against the sun's harmful UV rays that can damage the sensitive skin on your face and neck.

You should select a hat with a brim that covers your face, and while a trucker hat could suffice, a larger sunhat or wide-brimmed hat would provide even better protection.

5. Cooling Neckerchiefs

Cooling neckerchiefs can also help you beat the heat during summers. Aarn cooling neckerchiefs are made of polymer crystals that release water similar to an evaporative air conditioner. You should pack it in your backpack to beat the heat on scorching summer days.

6. Hike Early in the Morning

You must start your hike early in the morning as heat tends to build up by late morning and peaks by around 3:00 pm.

Starting early can help you avoid the heat of the day and complete your miles before it gets too hot. Additionally, hiking in the morning is preferable to hiking late in the day as you have plenty of daylight in case you hike slower than expected or get lost.

Moreover, your chances of spotting wildlife are greater in the early morning hours when they tend to be more active. Plan to be at the destination just as the sun is rising to avoid getting a heatstroke and remain cool when hiking.

7. Use Good Quality Sunscreen

Sunscreen does not directly help you remain hydrated. However, it can help prevent dehydration by protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

When your skin is exposed to the sun, it can lose moisture through a process called trans epidermal water loss (TEWL). This is because the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin's natural barrier, which helps to keep moisture in. Sunscreen can help protect the skin's barrier and prevent TEWL, which can help you stay hydrated.

In addition, sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, which can also lead to dehydration. When you are sunburned, your body loses fluids as it tries to heal the damaged skin. This can lead to dehydration, which can make you feel tired, weak, and lightheaded. Sunscreen can help prevent sunburn and the dehydration that can result from it.

Conclusion

When you are hiking in the summer, it is important to stay hydrated and cool. It is important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Aim to drink at least 2 liters of water per day, or more if you are sweating heavily.

If you are feeling hot and tired, take a break in the shade. This will give your body a chance to cool down.

Planning your first camping trip during the summers? Look no further! At Light Hiking Gear, we have everything you need to create unforgettable memories.

Shop lightweight backpacking gear and more from our online store. We're here to make your first camping experience a breeze. Drop us a line anytime with any questions you might have. We will help you select the best light camping gear for your next adventure. Avail our summer deals to get the best discounts on camping gear.