š§³āļø Beating the Heat: Your Ultimate Summer Travel Survival Guide
- The Team
- Apr 4
- 3 min read

Ah, summerālong days, golden sunshine, and that irresistible call to hit the road (or the runway). But letās be real: when the heat index climbs and you feel like youāre melting faster than a Dole Whip in July, summer travel can go from dreamy to downright sweaty fast.
At Snacks and Suitcases, we believe you can stay cool, hydrated, and happy even on the hottest days. Whether youāre theme park hopping, beach lounging, or city exploring, these summer travel tips and essentials will help you beat the heat without breaking a sweat.
š“ TRAVEL TIPS TO STAY COOL ON THE GO
1. Start Early or Stay Late
If your itinerary includes outdoor activities, plan them for the early morning or evening. The midday sun (usually 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) is not your friendāuse that time for indoor museums, lunch breaks, or a siesta.
2. Hydrate Like Itās Your Job
Drink water regularlyāeven if you donāt feel thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up fast in hot weather. Add an electrolyte tablet or packet (like Nuun or Liquid I.V.) for a hydration boost.
Pro Tip: Bring a collapsible water bottle with a built-in filter (like the GRAYL GeoPress or LifeStraw Go)āperfect for airports, hiking trails, and parks.
3. Cool Down Strategically
Pack a neck cooling towel (just soak it in water and snap it to activate). These babies can lower your body temp instantly and make a big difference when you're roasting in a theme park queue or waiting for your Uber.
Another fave? A portable fan with a misting feature (USB rechargeable and travel-friendly). Trust usāworth every penny.
āļø SUMMER TRAVEL PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
š§ 1. Cooling Gear
Arctic Cool Performance Clothing ā moisture-wicking, UV-blocking, and breathable
š§ 2. Hydration Helpers
Hydro Flask or Stanley Adventure Quencher ā keeps drinks cold forever
DripDrop ORS Electrolyte Powder ā easy to pack and super effective
Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle ā TSA-friendly and space-saving
š§“ 3. Skincare & Sun Protection
Supergoop! PLAY SPF 50 Sunscreen Mist ā sweat-resistant and reef-safe
Sun Bum SPF Lip Balm ā donāt forget your lips!
Aloe Vera Travel Gel ā in case you overdo it (weāve all been there)
šļø BONUS TIPS FROM THE ROAD
š¬ļø Pack a Mini Spray Bottle
Fill it with water and keep it in your bag for a mid-day face mist. Add a drop of peppermint oil for a refreshing zing!
š§¢ Rock That Sun Hat
Fashionable and functional. Bonus points for a wide brim or one with built-in UV protection. Sunday afternoons make some great options that pack well.
š„ Snack Smart
Avoid heavy meals in the heat. Think of hydrating snacks like:
Watermelon or cucumber slices
Grapes frozen ahead of time (theyāre the best!)
Trail mix with dried fruit for energy without the sweat
šØ Choose Cool Lodging
Look for accommodations with A/C or ceiling fans, and if youāre camping, check reviews for shady spots or higher elevation sites.
āļø HEAT-SMART DESTINATIONS
If you're not locked in on where you're headed this summer, consider these cooler spots:
Asheville, NC ā mountain breezes and craft brews
Pacific Northwest (Oregon/Washington) ā lush forests and mild temps
Nova Scotia ā coastal charm and crowd-free adventures
Northern Michigan ā lakeside towns with a nostalgic summer camp vibe
š§³ FINAL THOUGHTS: STAY COOL, TRAVEL SMART
With the right gear, a flexible plan, and a few clever hacks, you can turn even the hottest summer trip into a refreshing adventure. Heat doesnāt have to hold you backāitās just one more element youāre totally prepared to conquer.
So pack your cooling towel, fill that water bottle, and donāt forget your SPF. Your summer stories are waiting to be madeāwithout the sunburn.
āļø Where are you heading this summer, and how do you beat the heat? Drop your tips or favorite products in the commentsāweād love to feature your advice in an upcoming post!
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