Protecting Yourself Against the Elements: Part 4— Hot and Tropical Climates
It’s been a while, but the Vagabonds are back, and we are continuing our “Protecting Against the Elements” saga with a new chapter: hot and tropical climates. In this article, we are going to give you all the information you need to stay healthy when the heat is oppressive and the sun is blazing.
If you are traveling to a hot climate, make sure, first and foremost, to get and bring sunscreen. Usually, hot and tropical climates are closer to the equator, meaning that you—and your skin—are closer to the sun. It is possible to get severe sunburn even when it is overcast in these types of climates, so be cautious! Make sure you get enough, as you should constantly be applying sunscreen to the exposed skin. Make sure not to forget the easily forgotten places: ears, shins, knees, hands, and the tops of the feet—if you are wearing sandals.
One highly overlooked area of the body is the lip. In intense heat and sun, your lips will chap and burn extremely quick. Get some lip balm, as it has sun-reflecting agents that will help protect your lips from the sun. Make sure to put this on constantly as well. You won’t notice your lips are burnt until it’s too late.
A hat with a wide brim is also a wise investment because it will protect your face and neck—the two parts of your body that are going to be most exposed to the sun—and keep any dripping sweat out of your face.
Gauge on a day-to-day basis how long you think you’ll be exposed to the sun’s rays. If you know you are going to be outside for a while, consider wearing a light weight, lose, long sleeved shirt. This will keep the sun off your skin and keep you cooler. Remember, when your skin is exposed to the sun for long periods of time, it will drain your energy, making you lethargic and reducing your moral. Keep your skin out of the sun and your energy up.
With that being said, make sure to drink plenty of water while you are out in the hot sun. You will be sweating more than you realize, as the heat will cause your sweat to evaporate before your clothing can absorb it. In hot and tropical climates, heat and sun strokes are of high risk and drinking plenty of fluids, staying out of the sun, and keeping cool are the best ways to prevent them.
Also, don’t be afraid to carry an extra bottle of tap water around for the incidents that the heat is overwhelming. Dousing yourself with a bit of water will help you cool off. All you have to do is pour some on the back of your neck and down the back of your shirt.
And finally, invest in a cheap pair of sunglasses. All those UV rays can damage the retinas and cause headaches and other discomforts.
-Safe Travels
