How to keep cool hiking in extreme heat

Hiking in extreme heat can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. In this article, we will provide tips for staying cool while hiking in extreme heat.

I live with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria, which is a skin condition that means I have a flare up if my skin gets too hot. And as a lover of hiking and the great outdoors, this is something I have to be careful of.

1. Plan Your Hike

Planning your hike is essential for staying cool in extreme heat. It’s important to choose a hiking trail that provides shade and has access to water. Avoid hiking during the hottest part of the day and instead plan your hike for early morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler.

2. Wear Lose Clothing

Wearing appropriate clothing is essential for staying cool while hiking in extreme heat. Choose lightweight and breathable clothing made of moisture-wicking fabrics such as cotton or polyester. Light-coloured clothing will also help reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cooler.

3. Don’t get burnt

Protecting yourself from the sun is essential for staying cool while hiking in extreme heat. Wear a hat to protect your head and face from the sun’s harmful rays, and apply sunscreen to exposed skin. Sunglasses will also help protect your eyes from the sun’s glare.

4. Drink Plenty of Water, and then more!

Drinking plenty of water is essential for staying cool while hiking in extreme heat. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and other health problems. Carry at least two liters of water per person and drink water regularly throughout the hike.

5. Take Frequent Breaks

Taking frequent breaks is essential for staying cool while hiking in extreme heat. Take breaks in shaded areas and rest in the shade to help regulate your body temperature. Use a cooling towel or wet bandana to help cool down your body temperature.

6. Carry a Cooling Device

Carrying a cooling device such as a portable fan or misting spray bottle can help keep you cool while hiking in extreme heat. These devices can provide a refreshing burst of cool air or mist and help regulate your body temperature.

7. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion is essential for staying safe while hiking in extreme heat. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, headache, nausea, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop hiking immediately, rest in the shade, and drink water.

8. Hike with a Buddy

Hiking with a buddy is essential for staying safe while hiking in extreme heat. A hiking partner can help keep you cool by reminding you to drink water, taking breaks, and providing help if you experience symptoms of heat exhaustion.

Hiking in extreme heat can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Planning your hike, wearing appropriate clothing, protecting yourself from the sun, drinking plenty of water, taking frequent breaks, carrying a cooling device, knowing the signs of heat exhaustion, and hiking with a buddy are all essential for staying cool and safe while hiking in extreme heat. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and memorable hiking experience even in extreme heat.

How to hike in the heat with Urticaria

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin condition that causes itchy, red, and raised welts on the skin. Hiking with urticaria can be challenging, as exposure to heat, sweat, and allergens can trigger symptoms. However, with proper precautions, it is possible to enjoy hiking while managing urticaria symptoms.

1. Wear Appropriate Clothing

Wearing appropriate clothing is essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. Choose loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or polyester to help regulate body temperature. Avoid tight-fitting clothing as it can cause irritation and trigger symptoms.

2. Protect Your Skin

Protecting your skin is essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. Wear a hat to protect your head and face from the sun’s harmful rays, and apply sunscreen to exposed skin. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect your skin from allergens and irritants.

3. Carry Medication

Carrying medication such as antihistamines or epinephrine is essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. Make sure to pack enough medication to last the entire hike, and keep it easily accessible in case of an emergency.

4. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. Dehydration can cause symptoms to worsen, so carry plenty of water and drink regularly throughout the hike.

5. Avoid Triggers

Avoiding triggers is essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. If you know that certain foods, medications, or environmental factors trigger your symptoms, avoid them before and during the hike.

6. Hike with someone you trust

Hiking with a friend is essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. They’ll help monitor your symptoms, remind you to take medication, and provide help in case of an emergency.

Those are my top tips on hiking in the heat with Urticaria

Hiking with urticaria can be challenging, but with proper precautions, it is possible to enjoy the great outdoors while managing symptoms. Wearing appropriate clothing, protecting your skin, carrying medication, staying hydrated, avoiding triggers, and hiking with a buddy are all essential for managing urticaria symptoms while hiking. By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable hiking experience even with urticaria.

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