Some of the best parts of living in Vacationland involve summer memories with family and friends. Maybe you can’t wait to dance all night at a music festival or scream your way through exhilarating rides at the fair. Here are a few tips to help you have the best time, no matter where you go.
Be mindful of the heat, how much water you drink, and UV exposure. Find places to cool off in the shade. Wear a hat and drink plenty of water.
“Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including thirst, headache, nausea, and dizziness and find ways to cool down quickly with ice packs, shade, and take your shoes off,” says Holly Fanjoy, MD, FACEP, physician, Emergency Care, Northern Light Health. “If someone has a very high body temperature, confusion, slurred speech, or loss of consciousness, these could be signs of heat stroke, and they should seek medical attention immediately.”
Are you thirsty?
Drinking enough water helps your body regulate its temperature, supports brain function, and helps you digest food and absorb nutrients. Bring water with you and keep tabs on how much you are drinking. If alcohol is on the menu, you may want to balance adult bevvies with added water consumption. When you’re sweating and drinking, you can lose fluid even faster. If you know you’re depleted, drink water with added electrolytes. Remember, if you’re thirsty, you may already be dehydrated.
Got your sunscreen and shades on?
Sunscreen not only protects the skin, it helps keep you hydrated by keeping your skin moist. Sunscreens also often include ingredients that stop moisture from evaporating from the skin, and actively pull moisture into the body. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or more for 15 to 30 minutes before you go out. Most sunscreens are water-resistant, but you could sweat off your sunscreen, so reapply at least every two hours.
Are you fit for a festival?
Dressing appropriately for the weather can make a huge difference in your comfort. If it’s warm when you are heading out, bring a long-sleeved shirt for later in the evening. Wear shoes that you’ll be good to go in all day long. Leave your best ‘fit at home and remember you may get a bit dirty or dusty.
What’s in the bag?
You never know when a friend will text last minute with an extra ticket to a show. Here’s a checklist of things to throw in a your to-go festival bag, so you’ll be ready for spontaneous adventures:
- Earplugs – Concerts can be as loud as an emergency vehicle’s siren.
- Hand sanitizer – Soap and water are often scarce at outdoor events.
- Lip balm – Stay protected from the sun using lip balm with SPF.
- Long-sleeve shirt – Temps can drop significantly at night.
- Snacks – You never know what food may be available.
- Sunscreen – Reapply every two hours.
- Tissues/napkins – Portable bathrooms are not always well-stocked; tissues can come in handy!
- Water bottle – Bring extra water to stay hydrated!
One more safety tip: stay alert and be aware of your environment. If you’re out with friends, designate a spot to meet in case you are separated. With a little prep, you can stay safe and make summer memories that will last a lifetime.