The Iglu Guide | Blog
Surviving Aussie Summers
The sun is shining, the sky is blue – how cool is summer in Australia? There’s simply nothing like it. Especially the heat.
Whether you prefer to frolic in the waves or soak up the mountain air, Australia offers up plenty of glorious ways to spend your summer break. But for students that have travelled from overseas, managing the extremes in temperature can take a little getting used to.
If you’re looking for some tips and tricks to help combat that Aussie summer heat, here’s how to keep it chilled when the temperatures start rising.
Head to the water
With so much of the beautiful Australian coastline to enjoy, it feels like a no-brainer to beat the heat and head to the beach. An icy drink and a refreshing swim are the perfect antidotes to help you stay cool on a scorching summers day.
If you’re taking a dip in the ocean, make sure you’re a strong and confident swimmer and be sure to stay between the red and yellow flags where the lifeguards operate.
Check out these gems for some of the very best in summer swim spots, grab your hat, sunscreen and towel and you’re good to go!
Slip, slop, slap – and cover
Don’t be fooled by that tricky ocean breeze cooling your shoulders and the gorgeous blue water tempting you in. No matter where you’re swimming, unless you pick an indoor pool, you’ll still be exposed to dangerous UV rays and need to consider how to protect your skin from the sun.
Slap on some SPF50 at least 20 minutes prior to going out (so that it has a chance to fully absorb), invest in a broad-rimmed hat and seek out the shade wherever you can. Be sure to reapply your sunscreen after swimming as it does wash away in the water.
Pack some light clothing so you can quickly cover up your skin after swimming; this is actually your best protection against those nasty rays. Don’t forget your sunnies and you’ll be Insta-ready whatever the weather!
Water is your summertime bestie
Try to drink regular amounts of water across the day – and then drink some more. Yup, even if you’re not feeling particularly thirsty. By the time you actually do want a drink, this is the sign that you are already dehydrated. And on those hot Aussie summer days, that’s already way too late.
Pay attention to how you’re feeling – if you start to experience a little dizziness or faintness, or maybe your heart is racing, these are all signs of heat exhaustion and possible heat stroke. That’s the time to head straight back into the shade and seek some medical assistance. It’s all about staying alert, keeping in tune with your surroundings and most importantly, staying hydrated.
Plan ahead
When those hot days kick in, it can pay to set the alarm just a bit earlier and get tasks such as shopping or exercise completed and out of the way before it becomes unbearably hot outside.
Keep your blinds down to protect your room from the rising heat and try to limit your exposure to endless amounts of air conditioning. This might sound like a terrible idea when you’re feeling the heat, but there is some sense in there somewhere. Too much air conditioning makes it more difficult for your body to adjust back to the natural air temperature when you do eventually leave the room.
Stay inside over the intense midday period and if you do need to head outside, that’s the time to indulge in an air-conditioning refuge, such as the cinema or the mall. Head back home when the sun has gone to bed.
Photo by Houston Max on Unsplash
