Photo by Ari He on Unsplash
If you miss the summer season, it's a great time to visit Australia, as the land down under enjoys warm weather from December to February. It's also the home of the perfect spots for soaking up the sun, such as the hiking trails in Tasmania and the huge outback region known as the Red Centre.
However, a previous post also points out that the summer heat in destinations like Broome can make it challenging to explore, especially since Australian summers can reach temperatures of up to 40ºC and can be incredibly humid. Not only is this heat unbearable but also harmful to your health, considering sun damage contributes to the rising cases of skin cancers like basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas among Australians.
The good news is that you can beat the heat and make the most of your next Australian holiday by packing the travel essentials listed below.
Sunscreen
As previously mentioned, excessive sun exposure in Australia can increase the risk of developing melanoma and other types of skin cancer. This can be attributed to high ultraviolet indexes in most parts of Australia, thus making it crucial to wear sunscreen with broad-spectrum UV protection and a sun protection factor of at least 30.
According to the updated Australian sun safety guidelines, a UV index of above three necessitates routine sunscreen use and reapplication every two to three hours. Australian sunscreen brands like Ultra Violette and Naked Sundays are viable options since they offer different formulations suited to various skin types, such as dry, oily, and sensitive.
Sunglasses
Aside from protecting your skin from potential sunburn and skin cancer, your eyes must also be kept safe from UV-related risks like eye strain, photokeratitis, and retinal damage. This entails wearing UV-protective sunglasses outdoors, whether swimming with sea lions in the Eyre Peninsula or simply strolling around the picturesque Whitehaven Beach.
In this case, the retailer OPSM offers a range of stylish and protective sunglasses from top designer brands, so you can find a pair that fits your lifestyle and preferences. For example, the Versace VE4361 offers maximum coverage for daily activities, while the Oakley O9380 Double Edge is available in tinted lenses for greater visibility outdoors.
Portable fan
Whether you're a traveller looking for adventures like surfing at Bondi Beach or prefer a more laidback itinerary around cities like Sydney, you need a portable fan to keep you cool and comfortable no matter the activity. As the personal portable fan market continues to grow, top industry players like Dyson and Honeywell are coming out with products that balance style, functionality, and sustainability.
For instance, the Honeywell Turbo On The Go personal fan is USB and battery-powered, ensuring superior power and long battery life. The JisuLife Handheld Fan Life7 is also an ideal choice due to its perfect size for handheld use and adjustable wind speed.
Flip-flops or sandals
Lastly, your footwear is also essential for keeping you cool and dry, so choose flip-flops or sandals with breathable materials that allow air circulation and prevent excessive sweating. If you plan to do water sports like snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef, footwear options from brands like Hoka and Teva have waterproof and water-resistant properties for optimal safety and comfort.
By adding these essentials to your packing list, you can protect yourself from the sweltering Australian heat and enjoy the best that the land down under has to offer.
