By A vacation in Australia during the summer is a must-do on anyone’s bucket list.
Even though it is extremely hot, the weather is ideal, the skies are blue, and everyone appears to be a little happier when they can go outside and play.
However, risks in the Aussie sun can show anywhere, although such dangers are minimal, it’s better not to be caught by surprise by understanding a few basic tips on how to endure an Australian Summer.
Summer in Australia is always meant to be a happy time, with the majority of the population and visitors taking advantage of the great outdoors that the country has to offer.
However, because you spend so much time outside, you are exposed to some of the country’s horrors.
That’s when you want to have consciousness and basic knowledge when doing your daily business, whether it’s the seaside in the unyielding ocean or cruising on the open roads where 100 per cent concentration is crucial.
A fun day could turn into a disaster if your awareness or knowledge slips for a second, ruining what was meant to be a good time in your life throughout your Summer vacation.
This article is not intended to scare you from Australia during the dry summer months, far from it, it’s here just to help you in your daily decision, so you can have fun and keep cool during the hot summer nights or days.
Let’s get you started with our helpful survival guide for surviving in Australia during the summer.
1. Pack A LOT of sunscreens
Please don’t go out without your sun protection! When going out under the Australian heat and sun, one of the most important rules you need to follow is to wear your protective clothing, apply some sunscreen with at least SPF30+) every two hours put on a wide-brimmed hat, get some shade when it gets extremely hot between 10 AM and 3 PM. If you plan to go to Parramatta park during these times, we suggest that you go back to your Parramatta hotel first then go back around 4 PM. If you still want to go, find a spot that has enough shade.
Don’t forget your UV blocking sunnies! They are your BFFs too!
2. Recognize the symptoms of heat illness
It’s just as important to protect yourself from the sun as it is to protect yourself from heat-related sickness.
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are all symptoms of heat stress. If you, your friends, or your family members show any signs of heat exhaustion, it’s important to help the victim cool down. Cooking techniques include drinking, cool showers, cold towels, seeking shade, and fanning.
It’s important to understand that humidity can cause heat stress and dehydration because you sweat more and the heat lasts longer. Even if there is no direct sunlight, the effects are the same, and you must be aware of your health at all times, staying cool and hydrated.
If you start to feel dizzy or tired, it’s time to seek out some shade and relax. To avoid further damage to sunburned skin, make sure to moisturize it and cover it with a layer of protection. The best therapy for a heat rash is to keep your skin cool, clean, and dry.
3. On the open water, know your limits
Whether you’re swimming at the beach or kayaking on calm rivers, knowing your boundaries in open water is critical. It all appears to be a pleasurable leisure pastime, and in most cases, it is.
It’s critical to understand your limitations, capabilities, and surroundings.
Are you an excellent swimmer? Are you a competent swimmer? The ocean or rivers are wild beasts that can become cruel at any time.
Because they misjudged the water, numerous natives and uninformed foreigners drowned. Swim between the flags if you’re at the beach. Wear a life jacket if you’re out exploring the nearby waterways.
If you’re having a beach party, don’t drink and swim since that’s just plain foolish. Following these simple guidelines could save your life. Don’t take the enormous seas for granted; they can strike at any time and kill you.
Last but not least, keep two eyes on any children near the water. Too many innocent lives have been lost due to a lack of awareness, whether in the ocean, a lake, or a backyard swimming pool.
4. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Water, Water, and More Water. It will save your life, so carry as much as you can, especially if you’re planning a long day out in the sun and know that hydration is essential.
Try to take enough amounts of water with you, whether it is kept in a cool esky in the back of the car or bringing a camel pack attached to you, particularly essential when spending long hours in the sun.
Are you planning on staying at home? retain the fluids up, it’s not difficult when in the comfort of your own house, the harder part is to remind yourself to continue drinking, it’s always convenient when you have a bottle of water within arms reach.
The average amount of water you should drink in a day is two litres, but this number can go up if you stay active.
The colour of your urine is an excellent indicator of whether you are consuming enough water. If it’s clear, everything is OK. If it’s yellow, you should drink more water right away. Beer consumption does not count as water consumption.
5. Understand your limitations
Nobody knows you as well as you know yourself.
Don’t disregard your body’s warning indications, especially if you’re out in the Australian Outback. If you’re not in good shape, taking medication, or simply aren’t used to the Australian sun and heat, take extra precautions and don’t overwork yourself.
Avoid intense activity and try to keep out of the sun as much as possible. Take use of any available shade, such as a tarp, awning, or tree, to assist regulate your body temperature and stay cool.
6. During the bushfire season, stay alert
This is worth mentioning because, while I don’t see many travellers coming down under and starting a fire, or being caught in a bush fire, it does happen.
During the summer months in Australia, there is an entire fire ban, which means, if you’re camping, having a day trip out in the woods, you can not begin a camp fire and wanting to roast marshmallows. This can get disastrous, so avoid it.
Even if no horrible catastrophe occurs and you haven’t unintentionally set the entire forest on fire.
7. Putting water on food
Always remember that in an emergency, water takes precedence over food. You can go three weeks without eating if you’re in good health. Your chances are only four days without water.
Always keep water on hand, and if you find yourself in an emergency, water should be one of the first things you look for.
If you can’t find any bodies of water, you’ll have to make a rain trap. Tarps work best, but any non-absorbent material will suffice. Use some rope or cables to sling it up, then set a bucket underneath to catch the rainwater. If it isn’t rainy season, a condensation water trap might be used instead.
8. The sizzling grills are ready to use
Summer in Australia is supposed to be a lot of fun. With all of your preparations, remember that at the end of the day, the ultimate goal is to gather your family and friends. Everyone is here to laugh, get into their swimwear, dip in the pool, and drink a refreshing cold beer while watching the Aussies in the cricket and the old Aussie favourite of sizzling a steak on the BBQ.
Enjoy and feel the moments of your summer in Australia but make sure that you do it with safety as this should be your priority. You want to return home in one piece.
Aside from your sunscreen lotion, don’t forget the mozzie repellent too! They can get pretty annoying.
If you think we missed out on some important tips in this article, we like to hear your thoughts below. Happy travels!
